Old Habits Die Hard

Released in 2024, 'Old Habits Die Hard' marks a significant milestone for British melodic rock veterans FM, celebrating their 40th anniversary. The album serves as a definitive statement of their enduring AOR identity, eschewing modern trends in favor of the high-gloss, hook-heavy sound that defined their early career. Recorded with a focus on 'analog warmth' within a digital framework, the production is exceptionally clean, highlighting the band's technical proficiency and Steve Overland's soulful, blues-inflected vocals. Critics have noted that while the album adheres strictly to genre conventions, its execution is peerless, positioning FM as the premier practitioners of the 'British AOR' sound. The tracklist balances uptempo stadium anthems like 'Out Of The Blue' with more atmospheric, synth-driven pieces like 'California,' demonstrating a range within their established niche. It stands as a testament to the band's consistency and their ability to maintain high-stakes melodic energy four decades into their career.