The Station - Once Upon A Time 1989-1993 +1 (CD)

THE STATION is the precursor to HOUSE OF SHAKIRA. While these Swedish melodic rockers, who always have a few surprises up their sleeves, may not have a single track with obvious chart-topping potential, the songs here already demonstrate their immense talent and ability. Dating from 1989 to 1993, the period prior to their rebranding as HOS, some of these tracks eventually made their way onto later HOS albums, while also revealing the band's fascinating origins. "Warm Me Up" makes for a great opener that instantly sticks in your ear. Frontman Mikael "Zifa" Eriksson possesses a versatile voice and the production is largely well-executed. (MS)