Reviews for RADIOACTIVE "Ceremony Of Innocence"

RANKINGROCK.COM
RADIOACTIVE "Ceremony of Innocence"
MTM, 2002

The prolific multinstrumentist Tommy Denander has created one of the best works in the history of AOR. Joined by a handful of great musicians and friend this album is filled with elements of his admired Toto but always printing his style in amazing compositions that won't disappoint anyone.

TOTO NOTES
Radioactive
THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SWEDISH HARD ROCK & HEAVY METAL

The Encyclopedia Of Swedish Hard Rock & Heavy Metal is a 400-page hard-cover book covering the Swedish rock scene from 1970 to 1996.
Most of the bands and musicians are ones you've never heard of and never will, due to their releases only being issued in their homeland.
Stark has included photos and discographies of all the artists, along with brief bios.
What does this have to do with TOTO?
The book comes with an exclusive 16 track CD of rarities, unavailable separately.
In addition to excellent cuts by Europe, 220 Volt, Yngwie Malmsteen, etc., there's a track by RADIOACTIVE featuring Tommy Denander.
Taken from an as-of-yet unreleased album, Remember My Conscience features both Mike and Jeff Porcaro.
Unlike Denander's excellent instrumental solo albums, Radioactive is a vocal project.
The cut is commercial hard rock with a lengthy end section of fancy fret work by Denander.
The Porcaro boys are typically solid and Jeff gets off a few nifty fills here and there.
The book is beautifully designed and the bonus CD has some cool obscurities on it, but it's questionable how much interest someone outside of Sweden will have in reading about bands they're unfamiliar with.
GEOF O' KEEFE

FRONTLINE
Tommy Denander – Ceremony Of Innocence

(Adv tape)

DENANDER is an experienced dtudio guitarist, and an extremely skillful one.
All the more that he plays with LUKATHER style and sound just makes it better.
Since the start of the recording of these songs he found ANDREAS ”Andy” EKLUND, 20 years old and from Norrtälje (Sweden) – and a superb singer!
These demo mixes are taken from TOMMY’s coming CD ”Ceremony Of Innocence”.
In the accompany you find TOMMY’s good friends DAVID PAICH, MIKE PORCARO and JEFF PORCARO (RIP)!
Not a bad support, aye!
The basic was recorded quite a while ago, but after bad support from the record company TOMMY finally was able to buy the master tapes and now he releases the record himself!
The way he plays!
The style may be a little tough AOR throughout, but this is good!
But still you can find westcoast tracks on Ceremony which ”Voices” and ”When You’re In Love” (what a chorus) are good examples of.
The song ”Young And Innocent” has a very beautiful AOR chorus.
Sure you can hear some TOTO influences now and then, and if you try to place it in the TOTO pigeon hole you could say it fits between the ”old” and their latest album.
The keyboard is more prominent though, with beautiful fillings.
Now we’re only wishing for the CD release
Ola Gränshagen
RATING 4/5

AMAZON.COM
Editorial Reviews
Album Description

2001 release for guitarist Tommy Denanderos, who's past collaborators read like the 'Who Is Who' of rock, Richard Marx, Bill Champlin, Bobby Kimball, Fee Waybill, Fergie Frederiksen, Vinnie Colaiuta, Tony Franklin, Bruce Gaitsch, Steve Stevens, Glenn Hughes, Yngwie Malmsteen, Dan Reed, Joey Tempest, Max Martin, Talisman & numerous others. 'Ceremony of Innocence' was produced by Tommy Denander himself, together with numerous world famous musicians. The debut album of this brilliant All Star Pop Rock project will certainly wow all fans of this genre.

Customer Reviews
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Super Band Project Featuring Who's Who of TOTO Production, August 26, 2001
Reviewer: susumu-5 from Japan
Radioactive is a melodic rock project produced by Tommy Demander a Swedish guitarist who supported TOTO albums. Guest musicians alone will catch your attention such as David Foster playing keyboard for Toto-styled ballad Grace(my #1 favorite) and Bobby Kimball of TOTO, ex TOTO vocalist Fergie Fredericksen, and big shots go on and on... So the album on the whole sounds like TOTO and partly Fergie's Equilibrium. Comparing with Equilibrium it is a bit softer. My quick picks are TOTO styled pop rock On My Own featuring the vocal of Fergie Fredericksen, Grace nice ballad starting like Africa a bit and Haunt Me Tonight,Richard Marx styled ballad(no doubt because it was written by Richard and his songwriting team). Essential for anyone who enjoys Fergie Fredericksen's Equilibrium, and TOTO fans.

AOR EUROPE
RADIOACTIVE: "Ceremony Of Innocence"
MTM 2001

Finally, after a ten years journey, Tommy Denander managed to get his lifetime project Radioactive released. As many of you would know, it is a project which involved one of the most impressive bunch of AOR stars around including the following: Jeff, Mike and Steve Porcaro, Bobby Kimball, Joseph Williams, Fergie Frederiksen, Jason Scheff, Michael Thompson, Fee Waybill, David Paich, Bruce Gaitsch, Geir Rönning, Jim Jihed, Mats Olausson, Marcus Lillequist and many more...
With such a list, one would expect a TOTO tribute kinda thing, but this is not exactly true. "Ceremony Of Innocence" is quite an amazing collection of melodic tunes, gathered in a very varied styles. One can be very surprised to listen to the rhythm section of TOTO playing true ass-kicking rockers like the opener "The Story Of Love" or "Crimes Of Passion", funky grooves like "Waiting for a Miracle", (perhaps the most TOTO oriented track on the album, yet different at the same time, with really amazing backing vocals), and even slow, dense tracks as the title track "Ceremony of Innocence". There's even an instrumental fusion piece titled "Liquid" that will be an ear candy for lovers of instrumental rock. There are even melodic hard rock tracks like "A Case OF Right Or Wrong", and also more classic keyboard driven AOR like "Silent Cries" (with an amazing as always Jim Jihed on vocals), and the last (suppossedly) track "When You're In Love" with wonderful melancholic verses and chorus that is meant to become an all time AOR anthem. These are so far the tracks the Porcaro Bros. played in. But the album is much more than that. More rockers like "On My Own" (Frederiksen on vox), ballads like "Grace" (I just love the dense ambient those extraordinary percussions give to the song!) or "Haunt Me Tonight", (another great ballad, written by Richard Marx among others, btw). And finally my fave track from the album so far, the extraordinary AOR/Wescoast tune "L.A.Movies", (with Mr. Jason Scheff on vocals, and some of the nicest guitars licks I've listened to in a very long time).
All in all, this is a superb album. For those who feared a cheapo production like the ones Mr. Denander has been blamed for in the past (IMO not fairly though), you've got nothing to fear this time. This CD sounds just incredible, not only for the top quality of the musicians involved, and the songwriting by Tommy Denander, but also for the top level production. I've read some doubts about the drum sound, but hey man, do you really think Denander would have dare not to make justice to the everlasting groove of the sadly missed Jeff Porcaro? C'mon! It should be mentioned also the astonishing guitar work by Mr. Tommy Denander himself, who proves on this album, (as if it needed to be proved anyway), that he is one of the most talented musicians of the present melodic rock scene. This is Mr. Denander's dream come true, and you'll notice it when you listen to the album, as it has been made with the heart. My final recomendation would be: don't miss this album, as for me it is the best CD I've listened to in long, long time and is meant to become a classic. It took ten years to be finnished, but was worth the wait all the way! Needles to say it is best album of the year so far for me, and I seriouly doubt any other can even come closer. But you never know, let's wait and see...!
Jorge "Vigilante" Antonaya
RATING 10/10

AOR WEBSITE
RADIOACTIVE "Ceremony of innocence"
(MTM)

It's since a long time that I read of this project by young Swedish guitarist Tommy Denander (Prisoner, Talk Of The Town, Say It) but, for the reasons illustrated in the booklet, only today we can taste this delicious piece of AOR.
There are many and many guests here, that are TOTO of all eras (except Steve Lukather and JM Byron), Fee Waybill, Greg Phillinganes, David Foster, Jason Scheff, Abe Laboriel, Neil Stubenhaus, Randy Goodrum, Bruce Gaitsch, Michael Thompson, Dean Parks, Vince Dicola, Geir Rönning, Jim Jidhed, Mats Olausson and many more!
The songs are all devoted to AOR/Westcoast with an almost perfect production by Tommy, spectacular vocal performances and high quality arrangements.
"The story of love" is a melodic rock driven by Jeff Porcaro, "Crimes of passion" has Kimball on lead vocals, Williams and Scheff on back vocals, the three Porcaro brothers and David Paich on their own instruments for a very good song.
"On my own" puts Frederiksen and David Hungate under the spotlight and is a Toto inspired melodic rock.
Kristoffer Lagerstrom (vc), Michael Thompson, David Foster and Randy Goodrum appear in the elegant and passionful "Grace", but the party starts again with the rhythm of "Waiting for a miracle" confirming the influence of Toto and Westcoast music in Tommy's songwriting.
"LA Movies" is a pop/AOR de luxe close to Michael Thompson Band, only slightly faster; the titletrack has more pompous and epic sounds, with Fergie and Jeff Porcaro guesting, but "Haunt me tonight" is an evanescent pop.
"A case of right or wrong" (Waybill on vocals) is melodic tune worth to appear on Toto's "IV" hosting a fine synth solo by Olausson, and the cheerful "Silent cries" recalls of the"Isolation" era.
Kimball sings "When you're in love", pure '80s AOR that closes the official tracklist, but there's another surprise later...
Also to be mentioned "Liquid", instrumental jewel with three bassists (Procaro, Stubenhaus and Laboriel), Phillinganes and DiCola duelling on keys, Denander and Parks embracing guitars, Dave Boruff places a solo sax and Jeff Porcaro drives them all with his unmistakable groove.
I like a lot this cd and Tommy had a great chance to play with all of these immense musicians whose experience saved him by very little and not brutal pities.
RATING 90/100

AOR.NU
RADIOACTIVE | Ceremony Of Innocence
(MTM Music, 2001)

The Story Of Love / Crimes Of Passion / On My Own / Grace / Waiting For A Miracle / LA Movies / Ceremony Of Innocence / Liquid / Haunt Me Tonight / A Case Of Right Or Wrong / Silent Cries / When You're In Love
The first thing that hit me when the CD arrived was the list on the backside with all famous musicians involved. Some of them are; Jeff, Steve and Mike Porcaro, David Paich, Bobby Kimball, Fergie Frederiksen, Jim Jidhed, Jason Scheff, David Hungate, David Foster, Fee Waybill, Michael Thompson, Randy Goodrum etc. etc. I almost forgot to mention that this project (10 years in the making!) belongs to Swedish guitarist Tommy Denander.
At times like these it’s easy to be blinded and expect something out of this world on the circle shaped piece of plastic in the case. It is indeed important to stay cool and remember that it could be one of those albums where you were let down despite the people involved.
I gently removed the plastic wrap around the case, which also had a small "featuring…" sticker on it - to no surprise. I had already pulled out the booklet before the CD started spinning.
"Story Of Love", with Geir Rönning on lead vocals, opens the album in a bluesy rock mood. It’s followed by the Bobby Kimball sung, and co-written, "Crimes Of Passion". It follows in the same mould as the opener and the pair belongs to the dullest moments on the album together with the funky instrumental "Liquid".
Jason Scheff sings two Westcoast orientated numbers. While "Waiting For A Miracle" is on the heavier side "LA Movies" is a superb soft piece. "Haunt Me Tonight", by Marx/Gaitsch/Waybill, is another fine soft song. I think it was better when sung by Richard Marx (Geir Rönning sings on this version) on Bruce Gaitsch’s "Lyre In A Windstorm" a few years back.
Former Alien singer Jim Jidhed does a welcomed comeback, he’s been somewhat active here in Sweden, on one the album highlights in the up-tempo "Silent Cries".
The album, although good, is to me too less of a lot of things. I would have wanted some more mid-tempo paced numbers where Jeff Porcaro & co. would have been given more room to shine, instead there are too much traces of metal/ hard rock in Denander’s writing and playing. A more polished production with only some of the rough edges left to spice it up wouldn’t have hurt either.
Good and competent but nothing classic or out of the ordinary.
Review by: Stefan
RATING 3/5

AORACLE
Radioactive - Ceremony of innocence
Producer: Tommy Denander
Year: 2001
Review date: 15/09/2001

Amazing musicians and singers
This is the guitarist Tommy Denander's latest project. The CD sees the light when Tommy has been confortable with the result and here is the result of 10 years of hard work. Tommy has involved in this project to musicians such as Jeff Porcaro, Steve Lukater, Bobby Kimball, Fergie Frederiksen, Michael Thompson, David Foster, Jason Scheff among others. This will be a favourite CD for long time to lots of West Coast and AOR fans. A little of funky sometimes, a little of jazzy AOR some other time, but pure AOR and West Coast in all tracks. I highlight A case of right or wrong,but there are fantastic good tracks like On my own featuring Fergie Frederiksen on lead vocals, Crimes of passion in this case featuring Bobby Kimball on lead vocals and much more.
Este es el último proyecto del guitarrista Tommy Denander. El CD ve la luz cuando Tommy ha estado conforme con el resultado y aquí está el resultado de 10 años de duro trabajo. Tommy ha contado con la colaboración de músicos de la talla de Jeff Porcaro, Steve Lukater, Bobby Kimball, Fergie Frederiksen, Michael Thompson, David Foster, Jason Scheff entre otros. Este CD se convertirá en el favorito de muchos amantes del West Coast y AOR durante mucho tiempo. A veces funky , un poco jazzy AOR otras, pero puro AOR y West Coast en todas y cada una de las canciones. Destaco A case of right or wrong, pero muy buenos temas como On my own con Fergie Frederiksen a la voz, Crimes of passion en este caso con Bobby Kimball a la voz y muchos más.
RATING 94/100

AOR SWEDEN
Radioactive -
Ceremony of Innocence

Så kom den då äntligen, skivan som tagit mer än 10 år att färdigställa. Och vilken skiva sedan! Titta på följande lista av musiker som medverkar på denna skiva: Jeff Porcaro (RIP), Mike Porcaro, Jason Scheff, Steve Porcaro, Joseph Williams, Fergie Frederiksen, Bobby Kimball, David Paich, David Hungate, David Foster, Michael Thompson, Randy Goodrum, Bruce Gaitsch, Dean Parks, Abe Laboriel, Neil Stubenhaus, Greg Phillinganes, Fee Waybill, Mats Olausson, Geir Rönning, Kristoffer Lagerström och givetvis Tommy Denander! Går det att misslyckas med sådana musiker på en skiva? Tommy Denander lyckades med att knyta till sig hela eliten av Aor- och Westcoast-musiker och resultatet ser vi här, en fullständigt lysande samling låtar. Låtarna påminner, av förklarliga skäl, en hel del om Toto men även lite inslag om Fergie Frederiksen´s soloskiva Equilibrium. Det är förstklassiga låtar från första till sista låt med toppar i When you´re in love, On my own, Waiting for a miracle, The Story of love och titellåten Ceremony of Innocence.
På When you´re in love sjunger Bobby Kimball, jag har aldrig hört han sjunga med sådan kraft som han gör på denna låt. På On my own och Ceremony of Innocence sjunger en av mina personliga favoriter, Fergie Frederiksen, Toto´s bästa sångare (enligt mig). På Waiting for a miracle sjunger Jason Scheff, sångguden från Chicago, han delar ansvaret med Alex Ligertwood (är osäker på var han spelat tidigare). På The Story of love sjunger Geir Rönning (Prisoner), en relativt ny kille, åtminstone för den "stora världen". På skivan finns det även en helt instrumental låt, Liquid, på denna låt spelar Jeff Porcaro, Mike Porcaro, Neil Stubenhaus, Abe Laboriel, Dean Parks, Greg Phillinganes, Vince DiCola, Dave Boruff och, såklart, Tommy Denander. Denna låt är bland de bästa instrumentallåtar som gjorts. Skivan har fått höga betyg på alla nätsidor, så även här, det går inte att ge den något annat. Tommy´s bästa skiva någonsin, vi lär få höra från honom framöver.
Ett givet köp!!
Johan.
RATING: 97/100

SUNDSVALLS TIDNING
Radioactive
Ceremony Of Innocence
(MTM)

Mytomspunnen och efterlängtad släpps nu äntligen Tommy Denanders 10-åriga västkustprojekt med en av musikhistoriens mest imponerande gästlistor.
Historien i sig är unik med ung svensk gitarrist som åker till USA för att lära sig mer, blir kompis med TOTO och frågar dem på skämt om de vill kompa honom på hans platta om han någonsin får ett skivkontrakt.
1991 är affären ett faktum och bröderna Porcaro ställer upp tillsammans med alla TOTO-sångare genom tiderna, David Foster, Fee Waybill m.fl.
Myten blir inte sämre av att det är sista albumet som orginaluppsättningen av TOTO medverkar på, eftersom Jeff Porcaro dör strax efter.
Skivbolagstrassel gör att allt göms i lådorna i tio år men nu är det alltså dags.
Klart att första intrycket är en besvikelse med tanke på bakgrunden, men efter några lyssningar kommer små musikaliska pärlor som Jeffs unika trumspel, några skapliga AOR låtar som kunnat vara utfyllnad på TOTO IV och en navelskådaruppvisning med Mike Porcaro, Neil Stubenhaus och Abe Laboriel som trippelbasister i samma fusionlåt!
Tommy är en duktig gitarrist, han har fantastiska vänner, men är högst hantverksmässig kompositör.
Synd att ingen kunde övervaka processen mer kritiskt.
Idén var lysande och resultatet har historiskt värde för västkustälskare, men tyvärr blir det inget andra försök att fullborda formeln.
Lars Ericson
RATING 3/5

BABYLON
RADIOACTIVE "Ceremony Of Innocence" 
(MTM Music/Frontiers Records)

Please don't be intimidated by the monicker: RADIOACTIVE is not a real band, but it's the pseudonym used by the guitar-keyboard player/producer Tommy Denander for this project, the one he's been working on for a decade. Scanning the list of the very special guests who helped Denander making his dream come true, you can get shivers down the spine: Jeff, Mike e Steve Porcaro, David Paich, Bobby Kimball, Fergie Frederiksen, Joseph Williams (that is: all members of Toto, including 3 generations of vocalists), Michael Thompson, Fee Waybill, Neil Staubenhaus, Vince Dicola, Jim Jidhed and, believe it or not, it's not over yet... The story tells that the roots for this album were set in 1991 in Sweden, when a young Tommy, went to a Toto concert, and he met the guys after the show. He had the chance to ask them whether they were interested to play on his solo album and they gladly accepted. When Sony finally offered the longed for deal, it was said and done. Good Tommy got the first plane to Los Angeles and managed to record a dozen tracks played by Toto. When he got home, though, his luck was over because Sony had dropped him, so he kept his album for himself, waiting for better times. He had sworn to himself that he would not have released the album until it had been flawless. Today, after ca. 10 years from the first recordings, it is in our hands. My comments? Honestly, I expected a lighter sound, considering the musicians involved. Instead, this album presents a well done melodic hard rock, blessed by the presence of 'de luxe' singers like the - already mentioned - Kimball and Frederiksen , plus Fee Waybill (Does anybody remember Tubes?) and former Alien Jim Jidhed.  There are also some typically AOR moments, like in the title track, in 'Waiting For A Miracle', and in 'LA Movies', but high potential tunes like the opener 'The Story Of Love', or 'A Case Of Right Or Wrong' and 'Silent Cries' see Denander's guitar as an absolute prime mover here and there, that is frankly unneeded.  If you know what I mean, I think this kind of music require something less 'pretentious'. 'When You're In Love' is a typical example of this; it's a song with a typical AOR feelings, with a wonderful vocal performance by Kimball, but it ends up with a conflict with an almost heavy metal riffing).
However, apart from these small defects, this record is really worth buying. By the way,  my copy has 13 tracks while only 12 are listed on the booklet.
(Max Murgia)
RATING: 7.5

BREAKOUT
RADIOACTIVE - Ceremony Of Innocence
(MTM / SPV)
Von gefährlicher Radioaktivität ist auf diesem Album wahrhaft keine Spur, vielmehr erfreuen die melodischen Rock-Klänge das Herz jedes AOR-Kämpen. Und Gitarrist/Keyboarder Tommy Demander hat für sein neues Projekt Radioactive wirklich einen ganzen Packen bekannter Kollegen zusammengetrommelt, die ihm geholfen haben, solch überzeugende Tracks wie "The Story Of Love", "Crimes Of Passion" oder "Waiting For A Miracle" einzuspielen.
Dabei klingt das Werk trotz der Beteiligung der unterschiedlichsten Musiker dennoch wie aus einem Guß, was die Klasse aller Beteiligten zeigt. Neben Tommy Demander selbst sind so klangvolle Namen wie die Pocaro-Gebrüder (Toto), Bobby Kimball (Toto), Fergie Frederiksen (unter anderem Ex-Le Roux), David Paich (Toto), Fee Waybill (Tubes) und noch etliche andere beteiligt.
Stilmäßig ist klar, daß da etliches von den Gästen mit einfließt: Toto, Chicago und die ganze Palette der AOR-Größen machen das Album zu einem netten Erlebnis für alle Anhänger ausgereifter Rockmusik. Bleibt zu hoffen, daß es Tommy Demander nicht nur bei diesem Quasi-Allstar-Projekt beläßt.
Marco

CHANNELS ROCK
Radioactive
"Ceremony of innocence"
MTM 2001

Vaya regalito que nos ha hecho Tommy Denander. Segun parece ser y esto por lo que he leido en ingles en el CD (asi que no os fieis mucho) todo esto son canciones grabadas hace como unos diez años con gente de Toto, como por el ejemplo el fallecido Jeff Porcaro, ademas de por supuesto sus hermanos Steve o Mike y otros miembros de la banda.Y segun parece Sony que era la compañia que debia de haber sacado esas cintas nunca las saco y cambió de opinion, pero Tommy no renunció al proyecto y decidió acabarla, incorporando cantantes excelentes, ademas de coros y una mejor producción. Y como tenia confianza con Magnus de MTM, que para mas inri es sueco, pues MTM es la encargada de sacar este nuevo proyecto. Yo por lo menos asi lo he entendido :-).
Desde luego esto es una gozada para todos los amantes del AOR en estado puro, salvaje y de calidad maxima.El elenco de musicos y cantantes para el disco es de absoluta calidad total, destacando por encima de todo al fallecido Jeff Porcaro, considerado uno de los mejores percusionistas del puñetero globo, y dandonos aqui una especie de recital despues de su muerte y dejando un legado maravilloso. Pero no solo destaca él, sino otros musicos como Steve Porcaro, Mike Porcaro, Fergie Frederiksen, David Paich, Bobby Kimball, David Foster,Jason Scheff, etc..., y asi hasta casi una treintena de nombres de reputados musicos que participan en este disco como ejecutantes, por no hablar de la composicion de algunos temas en los que tambien participan muchos de los nombrados.
Intentar comentar uno por uno los temas es cosa inutil, porque todos tienen una belleza sublime, estamos antes uno de los discos de AOR del año y probablemente de los que marcan época. Los mejores cantantes se unen aqui, como por ejemplo Bobby Kimbal en "Crimes of passion" o "When you are in love", Fergie Frederiksen en "On my own" o "Ceremony of innocence", Jason Scheff en "Waiting for a miracle" y "LA Movies", ademas de Fee Waybill, Geir Ronning, Jim Jidhed y Kristoffer Lagerstrom para completar el elenco. 
Sencillamente en muchos temas es como coger a los Toto y meter las guitarras de Tommy Denander y algunos coros de gente como Jason Scheff, lo cual da lugar a temazos como "Crimes of passion" o "Waiting for a miracle", todos ellos muy ritmicos, muy AOR, pero a la vez movidos. Otros tienen invitados de lujo, como Michael Thompson a las guitarras o David Foster a los teclados en el tema "Grace". Otros en si lo maravilloso es la composición original del tema, como en "Haunt me tonight", un tema que en tiempo compuso Richard Marx. Incluso no falta un tema llamado "Liquid", instrumental, que es un atentica maravilla, en especial el bajo de Mike Porcaro se sale y la bateria de Jeff, su hermano.
En definitiva no puede uno mas que quitarse el sombrero ante semejante obra de arte musical. Indispensable para cualquier fan del AOR y como siempre digo, para cualquier musico que de verdad quiera ser musico. Una maravilla.
RATING 99/100

DESTINY
Radioactive - Ceremony Of Innocence

Having enjoyed a gestation period previously known only to Boston albums, the almost mythical Radioactive opus finally gets to see the light of day. Let me explain; some ten or so years ago, the then relatively unknown Tommy Denander started out on a project which was to involve most of Toto (then and future) as his backing band. More than a decade later, and having further enlisted the likes of Michael Thompson, Bruce Gaitsch, Fee Waybill and Jason Scheff (Chicago) to the cause (amongst others), and the end result is 'Ceremony Of Innocence'. Now, given the musos involved, it should be fairly obvious where Radioactive is coming from stylistically speaking, and fortunately for AOR fans, this certainly lives up to expectations. Mixing West Coastish ballads with chunkier, slightly harder edged AOR / melodic rock numbers, Denander has created an exceptionally strong set of songs which will have broad base appeal. Classically flavoured, yet surprisingly high tech, this is one of the finest examples the genre has thrown up so far this year.
Highly recommended.
Dave Cockett

FIREWORKS
RADIOACTIVE – Ceremony Of Innocence
(MTM Music 0681-32)

Usually, albums that stretch the creative process out over a decade or more are reserved for the likes of Boston, so those unfamiliar with the story behind Radioactive might be more than a little surprised to learn that ‘Ceremony Of Innocence’ actually started life way back at the dawn of the last decade. Back then, the then relatively unknown Tommy Denander was signed to Sony in his native Sweden, and full of youthful impetuousness he asked the guys from Toto if they’d appear as his backing band on his first solo effort. Somewhat amazingly they all agreed, and so started one of the longest running soap operas in the recent history of rock ‘n’ roll.
Although Denander and the Toto boys did a fair bit of work on the album at the time, the body blow dealt the melodic rock scene by the rise of Nirvana saw a radical policy reappraisal by Sony which resulted in the idea being shelved indefinitely. Undaunted, Denander swore to complete the project on his own, determining that it would not see the light of day until he was completely happy with the end results, something reinforced by the untimely death of Jeff Porcaro in 1992. And so here we are, some ten years later, and having further enlisted the help of such additional luminaries as Fee Waybill (The Tubes), Michael Thompson, Bruce Gaitsch, and Chicago’s Jason Scheff , ‘Ceremony Of Innocence’ is now deemed suitable for public consumption.
Given the past pedigree of the undeniably impressive list of names involved, there’s no prizes for guessing that this release is aimed primarily at the AOR market. Harder edged than his work on things like SayIt, yet smoother and more polished than either Prisoner or Rainmaker, Radioactive proves to be one of the most instantly addictive releases of it’s type since the fine sophomore effort from Street Talk.. As regular readers will know, formula AOR isn’t normally my first choice of listening material, but when it’s delivered with the style and sophistication inherent in ‘Ceremony Of Innocence’, you just have to sit up and take notice.
Subtly orchestrated, and drenched in emotion, ‘Ceremony Of Innocence’ has certainly been worth the wait. Kicking off with the bubbling, slightly pompous opener ‘The Story Of Love’ (featuring current Prisoner / Rainmaker colleague Gerr Ronning on vocals), the thirteen tracks herein prove to be amongst the finest pure AOR Denander has had a hand in so far. The combination of Ronning’s, soulful, blues tinged vocals and bright, pretentious guitar / keyboard interplay make this one track you’ll want to keep coming back to over and over again. Continuing with the upbeat theme, ‘Crimes Of Passion’ (with the inimitable voice of Bobby Kimball) is another great slice of catchy melodic rock – kinda Red Dawn lite with Toto overtones maybe – great sprawling guitar solo too
And that early promise pretty much continues throughout the rest of the album. From the infectious mid paced rocker ‘On My Own’ (the first of two tracks fronted by Fergie Frederiksen), through the deceptively seductive Richard Marx / Bruce Gaitsch penned ballad ‘Haunt Me Tonight’, to the gently anthemic sophistication of title track ‘Ceremony Of Innocence’, this is filled to overflowing with the kind of hook laden AOR fans of the genre voraciously dream about, but rarely find so readily available.
In a nutshell, ‘Ceremony Of Innocence’ is ‘the’ essential item in this summer’s AOR collection.
Dave Cockett

GROOVE MACHINE
Radioactive
Ceremony of Innocence

For those of you who were none to happy with the production and mix on the last Prisoner, I have to admit it did sound a tad flat, you will be pleased to know that top bloke and all round good egg Tommy Denander is back on from with this his pet project which he has had brewing for quite a few years. It seems everybody and his dog make an appearance on Ceremony as the list is a who's who of west coast melodic rock. I know that Tommy may not agree with me on this point but the stand out participant on this project , apart from the Tomster himself is none other than his Prisoner compadre Geir Ronning whose voice is just pure soul on the heart, check out The Story of Love and Haunt Me Tonight to see what I mean. Tommy has given his heart and soul to this project as well has great chunk of his life and it shows with not only the quality of his playing, which is awesome throughout , but the strength of the songs that would grace any album of this genre over the past 25 years. As you can probably tell I love this album and it is definitely a welcome addition to anybody's collection.
Ian

HARD ROXX
RADIOACTIVE
Ceremony Of Innocence
MTM   0681-32

You know about this one?   Thought it was an urban myth?   Let's start with the cast list for the second track, 'Crimes Of Passion'.  Vocals : Bobby Kimball, Backing vocals : Joseph Williams and Jason Scheff, Drums : Jeff Porcaro, Keyboards : David Paich, and on geetar, the one and only, the ubiquitous Tommy Denander.  With me now?   Yes, this is the one.  Tommy Denander and Toto, recorded back in 1991.
Lifelong Toto fan, Denander hooked up with the band when he decamped from his native Sweden to LA in 1988, fulfilling a young rock musician's dream.  Ceremony Of Innocence' was recorded three years later, essentially Denander plus Toto (but without Lukather), and a bunch of other musicians you may have heard of - Jason Scheff, Fergie Frederiksen, Bruce Gaitsch, Fee Waybill, David Foster, Michael Thompson, and more.  But the pre-arranged deal with Sony went sour, the album didn't get finished, and consequently never saw the light of day.  Of such stuff, legends are made.
Okay, enough context.  Ten years later and here it is.  The finished version.  To be honest, I was put off by the whole concept.  Toto with a different guitarist is still going to sound pretty damn close to Toto.  So why bother?  Why not just buy a Toto album?
Then I listened to it.  Then I listened to it again.  And again.  Now?  First, Denander is a gifted songwriter, and back then his material had a much rockier, groovier feel.  This is as strong and consistent a bunch of songs as Toto have recorded in recent years, taking strong melodies and vocal harmonies and placing them within a guitar driven rock framework.
Second, Denander displays the rock obsessive's attention to fine textural detail, typified by the punchy 'Waiting For a Miracle' and the Westcoastish 'LA Moves'.  On both, there's as much going on in the shadows as there is in the light, ensuring that each play reveals a little more, as the music gradually unfolds.
The elegant 'Grace' and the languorous Marx/Gaitsch/Waybill co-write 'Haunt me Tonight'stay with the programme, spinning a web of luminous chords and intricate arrangements around the husky vocals of the relatively unknown Kristoffer Lagerstrom and Geir Ronning respectively.
Of the name vocalists, Frederiksen just sparkles on the album's poppiest track 'On My Own', and despite (or maybe because of) his weak lyrics, Fee Waybill sounds like he's enjoying every minute of 'Case Of Right Or Wrong'.
Of course, it would be easy to undervalue the contribution made by Paich and the Porcaros to the album, when in fact it is their impeccably tight rhythms and articulate fills and frills which provide the platform for Denander's bewitching solos, as particularly evident on opening track 'Story Of Love' and the title track itself 'Ceremony Of Innocence'.
The only downside is that Kimball is not on great form on the couple of tracks he handles, but that's a small complaint on a 60 minute, l2 track album of such appealing quality.  Recommended.
Brian McGowan
RATING 9/10

HEART OF THE ROCK
RADIOACTIVE - CEREMONY OF INNOCENCE
(2001, MTM MUSIC)
Tommy Denander - guitars, keyboards, other instruments
Guests: too many to name, read on, or read the liner notes of the album when you buy it...
 
What could best be described as a labor of love for Sweden's ace guitarist Tommy Denander. A man with his body in Sweden, but his heart and soul in L.A. This collection was originally scheduled to be a solo album for him back in 1991, but label differences saw that plan shelved, and with the passing of time, and using the latest technology, these songs have now seen the light of day. And I have to say, well overdue, in fact ten years overdue! Take one part Toto, one part Chicago, and perhaps a drizzle of West Coast a la Fee Waybill or Richard Marx, and 'Ceremony Of Innocence' is what you'll get. Added to that of course is Tommy's own definitive guitar style, which combines all the influences of those L.A session greats such as Lukather, Thompson, Parks, Graydon etc. And to top it off, some of those guys even play on the record!
There's a few songs on here, so lets rip into them. 'The Story Of Love' features Geir Rönning on vocals, and his Steve Overland(FM) flavored vocals sit atop a song which could quite easily fit on John Wetton's magnificent 'Battle Lines' opus. 'Crimes Of Passion' strides out confidently with Bobby Kimball's recognisable style. Similarly, Fergie Fredericksen' striking presence with 'On My Own' hauls memories of Toto's 'Isolation' out of the closet. Fellow Swede Kristoffer Lagerström steals the mike on 'Grace', a beautiful piece which has David Foster and Randy Goodrum providing the piano and keyboard layers. Chicago's bass playing vocalist Jason Scheff and ex Santana singer Alex Ligertwood share the honors on 'Waiting For A Miracle', while Jason follows up solely on the smooth AOR of 'L.A Movies'. Check out the insane solo-ing going down on 'Liquid'. Whether it's bass popping, fluid guitar solos, or ivory slamming of the keys, you gotta hear this one. Geir Rönning showcases his great voice again on the sublime 'Haunt Me Tonight', while our Tubes friend Fee Waybill appears on the powerful rock-out of 'A Case Of Right Or Wrong', carrying right on from his 'Read My Lips' album. Jim Jidhed sings on 'Silent Cries' and if you imagine Toto meets Alien, we'll your halfway there.. The Jap bonus track 'Remember My Conscience' is cool too, with Tommy's extended guitar solo's providing some sonic entertainment!
Most of the songs feature the team from Toto, probably without the direct input of Steve Lukather it would seem, though I'm sure he would have been involved with preceedings somewhere along the way, even out buying all the beers for all the boys! Some of the older members are in there too, such as Joseph Williams, Dave Hungate, and Bobby Kimball of course. Mention goes to the late Jeff Porcaro, as these would have been some of the last songs he ever worked on prior to his passing.
In summary, 'Ceremony Of Innocence' is not just a collection of songs, but a subtle listening experience of quality production for those with appreciative and understanding ears! Tommy has demonstrated on this one album just what respect he has in the industry to assemble a stellar cast like this. Let alone the incredible musicianship displayed throughout. For Toto fans alone, this is a must have item for the collection, and makes one pine for those glory day moments of 'Toto', 'Hydra' and 'IV' etc. We'll try and get some words from Tommy himself about this project, and his reflections over the last ten years about it. In the meantime, source this out if you know whats good for your health. - George Thatcher
Pro's - flawless in most respects, stellar cast, great hearing familiar artists in different scenarios.
Con's - the fact that it took ten years to arrive! Still not enough to get Toto off their arse to do something similar..
RATING 9.75

MAJESTIC
Tommy Denander's fifth outing in two years is a very special one. Back in 199] Tommy asked the guys from Toto, which he knew from the period he lived in L.A., if they would play on his album if he got a deal. They all said yes, yes of course even, and after that everything went really fast. Within a week Tommy got signed by Sony and was on his way to L.A. for the recording of what eventually would become Tommy Denander's Radioactive. Eventually, as Sony and Tommy parted ways soon afterwards. Tommy bought back the tapes and decided to take the time to find the right singers. But when Jeff Porcaro died in 1992 he decided that "this album [wouldn't] come out before [he was] 100% pleased with everything. . . no matter how long it takes."
It took another nine long years before the album would see the light of day, but finally it's here. To say that it's been worth the wait would be an understatement. Reading the guest list is like reading a who-is-who in AOR. The Porcaro brothers, Fee Waybill, David Paich, Bobby Kimball, Fergie Fredriksen, Mats Olausson, Jim Jidhed, the list goes on and on. Of course Geir Rönning, who was Tommy's partner in crime on the Prisoner and Rainmaker album, is present as well.
Still Tommy has managed to make this an album in the true sense of the word. Despite the immense amount of guest players and the diversity of the songs, Ceremony Of Innocence has become very cohesive, which is quite an achievement. It says a lot about Tommy's production skills.
On an album of such quality it's always hard to point out one or more favorites, as every track has its own strong points. But as I'm never afraid to make things difficult on myself, I've managed to find a few that stick out. L.A. Movies is the first one. This incredibly smooth tune really stole my heart the first time I heard it. The Iyrics - by Ricky Delin - are well-considered as well. Another one is the opening tune, The Story of Love. I've become a big fan of Geir Rönning's voice and on this song it's pure vocal heaven again. Of course a lot of Prisoner and Rainmaker influences here, but that shouldn't come as a surprise, I think. Finally there's the title track. Slow, intriguing, haunting are words that come to mind listening to Ceremony of Innocence. Fergie Fredriksen's voice is absolutely perfect for this kind of work. I really love most of Tommy's work of the last few years, but what the man from Sweden has done here, beats everything I’ve heard from him up to now.
Fred
RATING 5/5

MELODICROCK.COM
RADIOACTIVE
CEREMONY OF INNOCENCE
MTM Music 0681-32
Produced by: Tommy Denander
Released: July 16 /
Closest Relative: Toto, Prisoner
GENRE: AOR

Radioactive is the project name given to Swedish guitarist, producer and songwriter Tommy Denander's latest project.
But to call it his latest project doesn't do justice to the work put into this, nor the line up or the effort in getting it released. This is top class music in every way.
The project came about after Tommy was signed to Sony and headed to LA to record an album with the guys he knew in Toto. Those sessions took place, but were not ready for release by the time Sony had a change of heart. Tommy vowed to finish the record in his own time and release it only when he was ready and comfortable with the results. Here it is!
Tommy should be well pleased with the results, as with other fans of his work and new coverts alike. Those that have no warmed to his other projects may well find a lot to like in Radioactive, as the production and song quality is somewhat different and very strong.
In the liner notes, Tommy says that this album might be heavier than some expect. Compared to recent albums, it is. But I have heard Tommy rock out and this isn't far removed from what any follower of Tommy's music would expect. This is definitely more AOR than his more recent Westcoast dominated records.
There are some rocking numbers and plenty of flashy guitar parts, but the smooth sounds of Westcoast at it's finest is what will make the biggest impression with listeners when enjoying this.
Tommy also says in the excellent liner notes, that this album features some of the finest talent available in this genre - absolutely! Spot on.
Please note - there are almost drum machines on this record! The majority of the percussion was recorded by the great Jeff Porcaro before his untimely death.
The Story Of Love features lead vocals by Geir Gronning. The track matches the pair's previous work on Prisoner, although the song itself it a step up from their recent album.
Crimes Of Passion features the great Bobby Kimball on vocals. The track rocks along nicely, boy, can the boy sing! Nice to hear Bobby stretch himself out on a more rock edged number.
One of my favorite vocalists in rock is the featured lead on On My Own. Fergie Frederiksen adds his own flare to this uptempo AOR pop rocker with a great hook and a definite Toto Isolation feel to it.
Grace is a very softly atmospheric ballad. Featuring Kristoffer Largerstrom on lead and Geir Ronning on back ground vocals, the song also features the amazing line up of Michael Thompson, Randy Goodrum and David Foster. Westcoast heaven is found.
Waiting For A Miracle features another musical giant on vocals - Chicago's Jason Scheff. This is another first class Westcoast track, with a very smooth production and a sound similar again to Sayit & Rainmaker, just a lot more polished.
And if you think it sounds remarkably like Toto at their soft pop best, you would be right. Players on this track include Jeff, Mike & Steve Porcaro, plus David Paich and Bruce Gaitsch.
LA Movies features Jason up front again and another Toto great - Joseph Williams on backing vocals. Another first rate, A1 Westcoast track as smooth as anything Chicago or Toto have ever recorded in this vein.
The title track sees Fergie back. Ceremony Of Innocence swings away from the soft Westcoast sounds of the last few tracks, to return to a tougher rock sound. Fergie's perfectly suited of course. This is a somewhat complex track, with a dark, moody feel and a changing tempo.
Liquid is a jazzy / funky instrumental track featuring an all start line up of Jeff & Mike Porcaro, Vince DiCola, Dean Parks & more...
Haunt Me Tonight is straight back to soft Westcoast mode. No wonder, it features Geir Ronning on vocals and Westcoast king Bruce Gaitsch on all instruments, except for Tommy's guitar playing. And yes, if you were wondering, it is the same song that Bruce released as a solo single a year or so ago. A wonderful soft romantic song, with a very soulful vocal.
A Case Of Right Or Wrong features the legendary Fee Waybill on vocals. The great survivor of rock n roll sounds in fine form on this fired up rock number. In fact I had to check the credits twice, as I swear it sounded like Steve Lukather on guitar. No, just Tommy Denander playing his ass off. A good rock song to up the tempo of the album at a good point.
Silent Cries keeps the tempo up and rolling along. This is a softer Westcoast/AOR number featuring vocalist Jim Jidhed.
When You're In Love features a return performance from Bobby Kimball. This classy guy is all over this track - another uptempo AOR number.
The last few songs of the album really have things on a roll. This is the tempo that maybe could have been more beneficial running near the top of the album. But to have a strong finish is important also and this album sure does.
Track 13 is...well, track 13 is a surprise bonus track, so I will leave something for you to find out!

BOTTOM LINE: Plain and simple this is Tommy Denander's finest work in a catalogue of many different projects. For fans of Tommy's sound, this will be a favourite for a long time, as it really does gather all of his passions into one record.
Those that haven't found his distinctive musical sound favorable, but like the artists mentioned here and have a penchant for the music of Toto would be advised to check this out, as it is a great body of work.

ESSENTIAL FOR: All fans of Denander's previous projects, fans of Toto and high-tech AOR and Westcoast fans.
DISCOGRAPHY:Prisoner; Sayit; Talk Of The Town; Rainmaker; Radioactive
PRODUCTION: 90% SONGS: 92% VIBE: 85% ATTITUDE: 93%
RATING 90%

MELODICROCK.COM ADD YOUR OWN REVIEW
13/08/02: holland - dutch@yahoo.nl
Rating: 98
Great songs, great music
Can't wait for the new CD Oh, yeah
I've heard rumours that there will be a dvd?????
Should be in everyone's CD collection
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK

10/06/02: Bart - b_holwerda@lycos.nl
Rating: 96
A great album! I first bought it because of the connection with the band I'm a huge fan of: TOTO, and I didn't love it. But the more I listened to it, the more I started loving it.
The musicians are great, with great singers as Bobby, Geir, and Fergie. And it contains some of the last recordings of the lately mr.Jeffrey Porcaro (drums, TOTO. died 5 August 1992).
This record is a mix of AOR and Westcoast, featuring some great rockers and a copple fantastic ballads. The one thing I can't agree with is the musical connection with TOTO. Many say RADIOACTIVE sounds a lot like TOTO and that it's a TOTO-imitating project, but that's bullshit!! The only song that could maybe be a TOTO song is ON MY OWN, and it's only because of Fergie's vocals. But that doesn't make it a less great album.
The songs: Story Of Love, a great uptempo song with an awesome chorus; Crimes Of Passion, fantastic! Awesome vocals and guitarplay, not to mention the kick-ass chorus; On My Own is one of my faves. Again, with great vocals and an awesome guitarsolo; Grace, a great ballad with awesome guitarplay and fantastic vocals; Waiting For A Miracle is one of my less faves. Boring song; LA Movies has got the best backing-vox by Joseph Williams. Great song, and in my eyes the diamond on this release; Ceremony Of Innocence is a good rockballad. Very dark, moody athmosphere on this one, with probably the best guitar-solo on the album; Liquid, the only instrumental song on the album. Great track, but a little too much horns and too less guitars; Haunt Me Tonight goes on in the style of Grace. Great dark moody song; A Case Of Right Or Wrong is sang by Tubes' leadingman Fee Waybill and is probably my least favorite song and together with Waiting For A Miracle the reason this album doesn't get 100% from me. Silent Cries again is a dark moody song with nice music; When You're In Love is a great song. Bobby again singing fantastic and great backing vox; Is This Love, the 'surprise' bonus-track I didn't know nothing about. Not everyone seems to get this track on the album, but I got it and it's nice. Not great, but for an extra track it's nice.
My faves on this release are LA MOVIES, CRIMES OF PASSION, GRACE and ON MY OWN.

07/03/02: Richard Hall - drhall01@hotmail.com
Rating: 87
Hats off to the artists that played on this c.d.,the music has been performed well.The only let down on this album is the vocals,considering the fact that such an array of fine singers at the top of their game did the work on this project.The best songs ironically were done by the lesser known artists such as Geir Ronning,Kristoffer Largerstrom and Jim Jidhed.Bobby Kimball was obviously not at home on his songs as was Jason Scheff(Joseph Williams should have done the lead on his songs,especially on "L.A.Movies").Fee Waybill's offering is instantly forgetable.Thank goodness for Fergie Fredriksen and Alex Ligertwood to help strenghthen this release.Tommy Denander's efforts are always worth checking out.This is one of his best releases.Good Stuff

07/09/01: Robin McGhie - Robin@mcghiefamily.freeserve.co.uk
Rating: 95
Quite simply STUNNING !!!. Ive lost count of the releases over the last 10 years that have had superlatives placed on them by the reviewer. Then to be let down when you buy the said release and discover that at very best, it is mediocre. How often have you heard the term..."Consumate AOR" "West Coast Rock at its best" ? Very often I'd bet. Well this release really is the real McCoy. You've seen who features on the CD and to say they all produce top notch performances to complement the high standard of songwriting, would only be scratching the surface.
To sum up, if you are a fan of Quality Melodic Rock this really is an essential purchase for your collection. I rather doubt that there will be such a collection of quality rock musicians on one release, ever again.

29/08/01: Nicolas Duclos - duclos.nico@wanadoo.fr
Rating: 95
I'm a french fan of Toto. When I found "Radioactive" and I saw the cast of guests, I couldn't believe it. David Paich, the Porcaro Brothers, Bobby Kimball... It's the record of my dreams! My fave tunes are : "Liquid", because of his jazz-funk mood; "In case of right or wrong", with Fee Waybill, cause it really rocks; "Ceremony of innocence" with great vocalist Fergie Frederiksen, a ballad with very cool melody line; the bonus track "Remember my conscience" seems to be a great jam. I guess musicians had a good time to play this one. I didn't know Tommy Denander (cause his albums are not released in France) but his style sonds like Malmsteen meets Lukather. Most of all, "Radioactive" gives us the opportunity to hear again the Jeff Porcaro's superb groove. You know, it's like a dream...

27/08/01: Susumu - sfuku@d7.dion.ne.jp
Rating: 82
Tommy Denandar what a man. Jim Peterik is not the only one who can make such grand consortium of AOR rock successful. It is a paradise for Toto fans and Equilibrium appreciators. Fergie Fredericksen is really great on On my own reminicent a bit of Equilibrium. It is more centered for TOTO than Equilibrium but it has similar flavor. Haunt Me Tonight, written by Richard Marx and his songwriting team is a nice fit for this album. AOR fans awaiting for Mecca release may get the kick out of it.

21/08/01: Landér family - marita.martinsen@electrolux.se
Rating: 100
Absolutely the best record from Tommy so far... We have heard nearly all of his records and we love the lyrics, songs and melodies on this one. Radioactive will (also) become a true success! With love from Reidar, Marita and Maria.

13/08/01: Brent - bl5150@bigpond.net.au
Rating: 95
Great album with no real fillers,although there are a couple of tracks where the standard drops slightly. Really tasteful guitar playing from Tommy is the highlight for me......some beautiful melodies in there. The other guys have summed it up well I think,although it was mentioned below Tommy and Lukather are good friends......they are the exact opposite....maybe former friends. It's no coincidence all of Toto except Steve are on this album.

04/08/01: Mark Ridout - mridout1@home.com
Rating: 100
I must say that my favourite band is Toto followed by Chicago. This cd from start to finish is absoloutely outstanding and reminds me so much of the above noted bands and why shouldnt it most of TOTO(Lukather is the only exception) play on this and it shows. The bonus track is a kicks ass song called Remember my conscience and ranks in the top 4 songs of the cd so if you are gonna get the cd you want the one with the bonus track as the vocals and guitar work kick ass! My other favourite songs ranking in order 1)Crimes of Passion-Bobby Kimball. This is worth buying the cd on its own. With most of TOTO backing this song absoloutely kick ass, one of the best AOR songs in years.....2)When your in Love-Bobby Kimball, Another fantastic tune with great vocal range by Bobby and excellent guitar work by Tommy Denander. I also really like the melody with fantastic backing vocals by Geir Ronning, this is a very very smooth TOTO sounding song, Jeff,s drum work is great, I must add that his drum work on this cd rules and just shows how talented he was.....3)LA Movies-Jason Scheff and Joseph Williams sound great together on this upbeat smooth west coast tune....4)Remember my conscience-Jim Jedhed(I think as its not listed in the credits) This is a wicked rock tune with great vocals and Tommy shines on guitars and Jeff Porcaro is amazing and i mean amazing on drums..... 5)On My Own-Fergie Frederiksen- Man another ex TOTO singer who also has great vocal range and this is another very TOTO sounding tune right out of TOTO'S Isolation era...6)Ceremony of Innocence-Fergie Frederiksen-This is a different track that is all over the place, but that is a good thing, Love Fergie and Tommy, this has great guitar riffs and a rocky beat, again Jeff sounds smoooth. 7)Fee Waybill-A Case of Right or Wrong, This is an interesting song with a very uptemp TOTO sounding sound with definete tubes sound. I love Fees vocals on this song and Tommy's sizzling solo. The rest of the songs on this are really good as well including the two slow ones Grace & Haunt me tonight and I would reccomend this cd to everyone as it is simply put the best AOR/Westcoast cd in many many years!

01/08/01: Johan - aorsweden@hotmail.com
Rating: 95
A true masterpiece from Mr. Tommy Denander! This record took about 10! years to be released, but finally it´s out. The musicstyle reminds me of Toto and his earlier release, Prisoner (which also is a great record). This is a solorecord from Tommy involving many great musicians such as David Foster, Fergie Frederiksen, Jason Scheff, Bobby Kimball, Geir Rönning, Abe Laboriel, Mike Porcaro, Steve Porcaro, the GREAT Jeff Porcaro and many more. There are a few "goodies" on this record; On my own (with Fergie on vocals), The story of love (Geir on vocals), Ceremony of innocence (Fergie again), the great ballad When you´re in love (Bobby Kimball) and my favourite L.A. Movies (with vocalgod Jason Scheff). There are also a great instrumental song; Liquid. Tommy plays (of course) guitar on all tracks and keyboards on a few and does it really great, his playingstyle reminds me of Steve Lukather (a good friend of Tommy). This record is surely a top 10 contender on the Aor-list at the end of this year. Do Tommy and especially yourself a favour and buy this great album! you won´t be disappointed.

METAL CLUB
RADIOACTIVE -CEREMONY OF INNOCENCE.
MTM MUSIC

Tommy Denander should be a well known name for fans of hard rock/aor
music.This swedish guitar player has played with well known names as Bobby
Kimball,Steve Stevens,Glenn Hughes,Yngwie Malmsteen,Joey Tempest,Talisman to
name a few.Radioactive plays aor,with some slight rock elements.The
"Ceremony Of Innocence" album has become a high skilled proffesional
act,with some very talented musicians as Bobby Kimball,Fergie
Frederiksen,Jim Jidhed,Jeff ,Mike,and Steve Porcaro to name some.One of the
things that makes this album so great is that the album is filled with
various moods and elements,each song makes a new start for the album.Some of
my favorites are "On My Own", "Waiting for a Miracle" and also the title
track.But i really cant find one really no good song here at all.So if you
are looking for some really new in the Aor style of music,with a bunch of
high skilled,proffesional muscians,this is it,highly recomended.
JOHNNY ANGELUND
RATING 90 / 100

METAL IMPACT
Radioactive - Ceremony Of Innocence
2001 / 61:31 / MTM/SPV / AOR/Melodic Metal
Online seit: 24.07.2001

Der Musiker, dessen Name man nur mit Mühe und einer Lupe auf dem Cover (hellschwarz auf dunkelschwarz..?) erkennen kann, bürgt an sich für Qualität: Tommy Denander.
Was der Mann in seinem umfangreichen musikalischen Leben bisher auch angepackt hat, es waren nur wenige halbe Sachen dabei. Auf seinem Soloalbum versammelt sich jetzt ein Who Is Who der Rockmusik - und genau danach klingt "Ceremony Of Innocence" auch.
Im Positiven Sinne, denn statt eines Sammelsuriums an (nur halb ausgebrüteten) Ideen findet der geneigte Hörer hier eine runde Sache vor.
Unter anderem gaben sich dabei zahlreiche Musiker von Toto (Kimball, Williams, Frederiksen, die drei Porcaros) und Chicago (Scheff) die Klinke in die Hand, ergänzt durch diverse andere namhafte Studiomusiker, die alle zusammen problemlos auf einem Fußballfeld ein Spielchen absolvieren könnten.
Das, gepaart mit der Tatsache, dass DENANDER seine Erfahrung aus der Zusammenarbeit mit zahlreichen bekannten Künstlern mit in das Projekt einbringen konnte, gewährleistet den hier vorliegenden AOR-Volltreffer.
Im wesentlichen können Fans der gemäßigteren Töne (Toto, Richard Marx, Glasstiger u.ä.) hier also ohne Zögern zugreifen - wenn's auch ab und an mal etwas atmosphärischer (der Titeltrack), härter (das zu kurze Silent Cries) oder abgepfiffener (das Fusion-lastige Instrumental Liquid) wird.
RATING 85/100

METAL MEDIA
Ceremony Of Innocence (2001)
(MTM/Black Cat)
Note Générale : A posséder !
Impression : Satisfaction !
Genre : AOR/Westcoast
Production : Satisfaisante !

Il est des rencontres qui change le cours des choses. Tommy DENANDER (PRISONNER, RAINMAKER, ...) peut en parler. En 1991, il rencontre TOTO backstage et leur demande, sans trop y croire, si cela les intéresseraient d'écrire un album avec lui. Et que croyez-vous qu'ils répondirent : BANCO !!! Et voilà notre Tommy à LOS ANGELES à écrire un album avec TOTO puis à enregistrer avec la crème des musicos du monde AOR/Westcoast. Jugez par vous même : les membres de TOTO (les frères PORCARO (dont Jeff dont il s'agit d'un des derniers enregistrements), David PAICH, David HUNGATE), Bruce GAITSCH et des chanteurs qui, eux aussi, font partie des meilleurs (Bobby KIMBALL, Fergie FREDERICKSEN, Jason SCHEFF, Fee WAYBILL et Jim JIHED, ex ALIEN). Tout ce beau monde entoure Tommy DENANDER qui s'occupe des guitares et des claviers. Malheuresement, le business étant ce qu'il est, l'album n'est jamais sorti.
10 ans après, MTM a décidé d'exhumer des tiroirs cet album. Que donne-t-il d'ailleurs ? Et bien, yous les amoureux d'AOR à tendance westcoast à la TOTO vont se régaler !!! Cet album aurait pu sortir à l'époque de son enregistrement sous le nom de TOTO. Personne n'aurait vu la différence et il aurait fait un véritable carton !! De Story Of My Life à Wh'en You're In Love en passant par la belle balade Grace ou le punchy Waiting For A Miracle, le très beau Ceremony Of Innocence, l'intrsumental Liquid, qui montre bien la maestria des musiciens, tout est à sa place, rien est à jeter. Et quel plaisir de réentendre Jim JIDHED sur Silent Cries. A noter un livret bourré d'infos et très joli à regarder.
Vous l'aurez compris cet album est un superbe voyage au coeur de la Westcoast qui ravira les fans de belles mélodies et tout particulièrement les fans de TOTO.
Assurément l'un des meilleurs album de 2001!!!
Luc

METALLUS.IT
Un sogno che si avvera. Questo quanto sta dietro la realizzazione di ‘Ceremony Of innocence’, un progetto di Tommy Derander con i Toto al completo eccezion fatta per Steve Lukater. Il parallelo con i Ten ed i Magnum risulta quanto meno vibrante nell’attitudine che contraddistingue ogni traccia di questo lavoro. Sostituiamo i nomi, il risultato non cambia. Ecco in pratica un (ottimo) disco di canzoni dei Toto che essi stessi non hanno scritto da tempi immemori. Vibra e si riscalda, diventa forse si radioattivo ma non pericoloso o sterile tentativo di riproporre in maniera pedissequa quanto fatto da altri. Una coraggiosa sterzata in territorio melodico a riempire un buco evidente e storicamente pesante. Molto più incisivo del edulcorato ‘Mindfields’ dei Toto, insomma, nulla di nuovo, ma queste canzoni lasciano il segno. Menzione particolare per ‘Liquid’ e per la conclusiva ‘When You’re In Love’, gemme assolute del lavoro.
Fabio Negri
RATING 7/10

METAL-INSIDE
 
Der Musiker, dessen Name man nur mit Mühe und einer Lupe auf dem Cover (hellschwarz auf dunkelschwarz..?) erkennen kann, bürgt an sich für Qualität: Tommy Denander. Was der Mann in seinem umfangreichen musikalischen Leben bisher auch angepackt hat, es waren nur wenige halbe Sachen dabei. Auf seinem Soloalbum versammelt sich jetzt ein Who Is Who der Rockmusik – und genau danach klingt „Ceremony Of Innocence“ auch. Im Positiven Sinne, denn statt eines Sammelsuriums an (nur halb ausgebrüteten) Ideen findet der geneigte Hörer hier eine runde Sache vor. Unter anderem gaben sich dabei zahlreiche Musiker von Toto (Kimball, Williams, Frederiksen, die drei Porcaros) und Chicago (Scheff) die Klinke in die Hand, ergänzt durch diverse andere namhafte Studiomusiker, die alle zusammen problemlos auf einem Fußballfeld ein Spielchen absolvieren könnten. Das, gepaart mit der Tatsache, dass DENANDER seine Erfahrung aus der Zusammenarbeit mit zahlreichen bekannten Künstlern mit in das Projekt einbringen konnte, gewährleistet den hier vorliegenden AOR-Volltreffer. Im wesentlichen können Fans der gemäßigteren Töne (Toto, Richard Marx, Glasstiger u.ä.) hier also ohne Zögern zugreifen – wenn’s auch ab und an mal etwas atmosphärischer (der Titeltrack), härter (das zu kurze Silent Cries) oder abgepfiffener (das Fusion-lastige Instrumental Liquid) wird. (heavy)

MISSING PIECES
A new project by Tommy Denander and it includes an astonishing line-up of singers and musicians. Jeff, Mike & Steve Porcaro, David Paich, David Foster, Vince DiCola, Dean Parks and Bruce Gaitch all help out on their respective instruments. On vocals we find Bobby Kimball, Fergie Fredriksen, Joseph Williams, Fee Waybill and Jason Scheff. The music is like a rockier version of Toto with some 80's hardrock influences. This is a real treat for all fans of the above mentioned styles and artists. 12 very good songs with lots of attitude and beautiful surroundings plus a hidden bonus track. If you're into 80's AOR or westcoast music this CD is a must. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
(review by Olov Andersson)
RATING 3/3

MUSICTOMMY.DE
Radioactive
Ceremony Of Innocence

Sein Name: Tommy Denander; seine Nationalität: schwedisch; sein Job: vielbeschäftigter Multiinstrumentalist und Studiomusiker; seine spontane 1991er Schnapsidee: Mitglieder der Gruppe Toto für ein noch recht unkonkretes Projekt zu gewinnen; seine prompte Erfolgsquote: 100%; sein daraus resultierender Output im Jahr 2001: Radioactive. Zwischen Idee, Konkretisierung und Vollendung des Vorhabens liegen also satte 10 Jahre.
Diese lange Zeitspanne ist umso verwunderlicher, wenn man berücksichtigt, daß Denander bereits im Oktober '91 mit den Toto-Musikern Jeff, Steve und Mike Porcaro sowie David Paich einen Großteil seiner auf "Ceremony Of Innocence" veröffentlichten Songs einspielte. Die Suche nach adäquaten Sängern gestaltete sich allerdings nicht so einfach, wie die fast komplette Rekrutierung der 91er Toto-Crew. Der plötzliche Tod von Toto-Drummer Jeff Porcaro im Jahre 1992, bestärkte Mastermind Denander dazu noch intensiver an der Optimierung seines Projekts zu arbeiten. Radioactive sollte erst dann als abgeschlossen gelten, wenn er 100%ig mit dem Ergebnis zufrieden ist, und dieser Zustand trat erst im Jahr 2001 ein.
Herausgekommen ist ein feines 12teiliges Mainstream-Rock-Werk mit phantastischen Studiomusikern [u.a.: 8x Jeff & Mike Porcaro (Bass); 4x David Paich (Keys) & Steve Porcaro (Programming)] und einem Initiator, Tommy D., der es insbesondere brillant versteht mit Gitarre und Keyboard umzugehen. Ein ehrlicher Toto-Fan muß zugeben, daß Denanders Saitenarbeit phasenweise wie die des Gitarren-Meister Steve Lukather, welcher an Radioactive nicht teilnahm, klingt. Dieser Tommy D. hat definitiv Toto-Blut in den Adern, denn selbst Songs, die ohne direkte Beteiligung von Musikern aus dem engeren Umfeld dieses US-Rock-Schlachtschiff entstanden sind, hätten prima auf so manches Toto-Werk gepaßt.
Was die Sänger angeht, hat Denander ebenfalls einige Glücksgriffe gemacht. Bobby Kimball, Ursänger von Toto und mittlerweile ja wieder fest in die Band integriert, steht für die Songs "Crimes Of Passion" [kann der dreckig singen!] und "When You're In Love" am Mikrophon. Beide Titel zählen zu den Highlights der Platte. Grandios gelungen ist auch das von Fee Waybill [Tubes] vorgetragene "A Case Of Right Or Wrong". Mit jedem dieser drei Meisterwerke erfüllt sich der Traum eines jeden Toto-Fan seine Lieblinge endlich mal wieder in der "Seventh One"-Form zu erleben. Leider gelangen der Band seit diesem 88er Geniestreich nur noch äußerst selten wirklich überzeugende Killer-Stücke unter dem Toto-Etikett.
Der Melodic-Rock-Opener "The Story Of Love" gehört ebenfalls zu den herausragenden Ereignissen von "Ceremony Of Innocence", auch dank der großen Stimme eines Geir Ronning, der auf der CD mehrfach [hauptsächlich Backing Vocals] zu hören ist. Darüberhinaus bietet die Scheibe gefälligen (Toto)-Mainstreamrock, dem aber jenseits der Highlights manchmal ein Quentchen mehr Ehrgeiz bzgl. packender Refrains und dem alles entscheidenden Winner-Point gut zu Gesichte gestanden hätte. Außerdem wäre eine sattere Produktion von Vorteil gewesen [unbedingt laut hören!]. Eine kleine Auswahl an weiteren Beteiligten: David Hungate [Ex-Toto], Fergie Frederiksen [Ex-Toto], Joseph Williams [Ex-Toto], David Foster [u.a. langjähriger Chicago-Produzent]. Bewertung: 2+ (16.10.2001)

NEH
RADIOACTIVE "Ceremony Of Innocence"
European Import : MTM Music - 0681-32

Musicians:
Jeff Porcaro, Mike Porcaro, Steve Porcaro, David Paich, David Hungate, Bobby Kimball, Fergie Frederiksen, Joseph Williams, Fee Waybill, Greg Phillinganes, David Foster, Jason Scheff, Abe Laboriel, Neil Stubenhaus, Randy Goodrum, Bruce Gaitsch, Michael Thompson, Dean Parks, Vince Dicola, Geir Rönning & Jim Jidhed
Produced by : Tommy Denander
Engineered by : Tommy Denander, Jess Sutcliffe, Mike Arvold, Steve Porcaro, Vince DiCola, Jason Scheff, Dave Carlock, Randy Goodrum, Michael Thompson, John Jessel, Dave Boruff, Bruce Gaitsch, Rick Stirling, Paul Altocelc, Nick Altocelc, Jared Miller, Ricky Delin, John Ekedahl, Peo Drangert and Thomas Ulvebring
Mixed by : Tommy Denander and Thomas Ulvebring
Mastered by : Bernd Riebutsch

There are only few people in the music business who can look back on such an impressive professional career as TOMMY DENANDER's. At the age of five he started playing guitar as well as keyboard and has established himself in almost every style. The artists Tommy played with reads like the WHO IS WHO of Rock: RICHARD MARX, BILL CHAMPLIN, BOBBY KIMBALL, FEE WAYBILL, FERGIE FREDERIKSEN, VINNIE COLAIUTA, TONY FRANKLIN, BRUCE GAITSCH, STEVE STEVENS, GLENN HUGHES, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, DAN REED, JOEY TEMPEST, MAX MARTIN, TALISMAN, and numerous others. At the age of twelve, he started playing on demos for friends. Two years later, he produced "Cut in Ice", his first album, together with the Swedish Hard Rockers ATC. Journalists compared him to EDDIE VAN HALEN and ERIC CLAPTON. Since then, Tommy is ocnsidered one of the best session musicians in Sweden's top elite. In 1987, he went to Los Angeles for three years to get more experience and to get in contact with others. The first musicians he met there were TOTO, who then played on a swedish festival in 1991. He asked the Porcaros to play on this new album - which they gladly did. "Ceremony of Innocence" was produced by TOMMY DENANDER himself; together with numerous world famos musicians, the line-up is just unique! The debut album of this brillant All Star Pop Rock project will certainly whow all fans of this genre.

NEH
RADIOACTIVE "Ceremony Of Innocence"
Description: Long-lost, all-star, metallized AOR

The story of Radioactive is an intricate one. Essentially, versatile hard rock guitarist Tommy Denander (Rainmaker, Prisoner) made an album with Toto (David Paich and the Porcaros, including the late Jeff Porcaro on drums) in the early '90s.
Due to various business issues, however, the album wasn't fully completed or released. According to Denander's illuminating liner notes for this album, some people doubted it even existed at all. "Ceremony Of Innocence" is the finished product, an occasionally uneven but always energetic mix of Denander's Euro-metal mindframe into a smoother, Westcoast AOR sound. When it works, it's electrifying, partly due to the stellar cast around Denander. His supporters include Jason Scheff (singer on the sweetly intense "L.A. Movies"), Fee Waybill , Bruce Gaitsch (instrumental craftsman on the atmospheric "Haunt Me Tonight"), and Toto singers Bobby Kimball (who kills on the hard-driving "Crimes Of Passion"), Joseph Williams, and Fregie Frederiksen. The compositions are good, but the performances are truly special. Although the nasty edges Denander brought to his Rainmaker album occasionally appear, fans of that style should stay away. "Ceremony Of Innocence" is much more in keeping with the "Prisoner II" release from his Prisoner project, but Radioactive has a much richer, more impressive feel. With such great sound and energy, melodic rock fans who aren't locked into one particular subgenre should have no problem forgiving the record's stylistic inconsistencies. It is a remarkable album from a remarkable aggregation of remarkable artists, and its many strengths make its few weaknesses seem awfully insignificant.
RATING 86/100

AOR DREAMZONES
RADIOACTIVE - CEREMONY OF INNOCENCE
MTM MUSIC

You have to get this CD. It's amazing. it's seriously one of the best CDs I have picked up this year. This is such a full bodied CD with a very rich West Coast commercial radio sound a'la Toto, Journey and Richard Marx..
Tommy Denander's music is great and anyone who hasn't had the chance to hear him on his solo material or on his projects with Prisoner etc.. should jump at Radioactive right here right now, as his Radioactive project features such well known respected artists like Vince DiCola, Michael Thompson, Bobby Kimball, Joseph Williams, Jeff Porcaro, Fergie Frederiksen, David Foster etc.etc..
In my opinion everyone should own at least one Tommy Denander record and if you don't, then shame on you as your missing out on some seriously great melodic rock.....how can radio ignore such gems as 'Crimes Of Passion' which includes vocals from Bobby Kimball and a jaw dropping guitar solo from Mr. Denander.
All the songs on Radioactive are so heavenly amazing and so touching. I can't say I have a favourite song because I love them all, if I have to then I'd choose 'On My Own' because melodic rock doesn't come finer than this, just listen to those Tommy Shaw/Steve Perry inspired vocals from Fergie Frederiksen which are mighty impressive.
The lovely calming Toto-ish pop ballad 'Grace' is another cool song which features vocals by Kristoffer Lagerstrom, a name I haven't heard before, but a name I'm sure we will all want to hear about in the future as his voice is so delicate and expressive like a mix of Peter Gabriel, Fergie Frederiksen, Kip Winger (solo records) and Kevin Chalfant, maybe I can get an interview with this guy and find out more about his background as he is amazing.
Also good is the Michael Bolton inspired 'Waiting For A Miracle' (check out that guitar solo, wow!!)
Honest this is an album to worship and I just have to say one more time that the CD has quite quickly became a favourite, and I will be looking to buy another copy incase this one gets worn out.
Essential.
Nicky Baldrian

ON THE ROCKS
RADIOACTIVE
Ceremony Of Innocence
(MTM)

Tracklist: The Story Of Love / Crimes Of Passion / On My Own / Grace / Waiting For A Miracle / L. A. Movies / Ceremony Of Innocence / Liquid / Haunt Me Tonight / A Case Of Right Or Wrong / Silent Cries / When You’re In Love
Playing time: 56:43 min.

Musicians: Tommy Denander (guitars, keyboards) / Geir Roenning (vocals) / Jeff Porcaro (drums) / Mike Porcaro (bass) / David Paich (keyboards) / Steve Porcaro (programming) / Bobby Kimball (vocals) / Jason Scheff (vocals, bass) / Fergie Frederiksen (vocals) / Marcus Liliequist (drums) / David Hungate (bass) / Kristoffer Lagerstroem (vocals) / Michael Thompson (guitars) / David Foster (keyboards) / Randy Goodrum (keyboards) / Bruce Gaitsch (guitars) / Neil Stubenhaus (bass) / Abe Loriel (bass) / Dean Parks (vocals) / Greg Phillinganes (keyboards) / Vince DiCola (keyboards) / Dave Boruff (saxophone) / Fee Waybill (vocals) / Mats Olausson (keyboards) / Jim Jidhed (vocals) / and more
Producer: Tommy Denander

A look at the participating musicians on this album will probably make all West Coast fans’ mouths water. The three TOTO singers Bobby Kimball, Fergie Frederiksen, Joseph Williams, the whole TOTO band except Steve Lukather, Jason Scheff of CHICAGO fame, Fee Waybill of THE TUBES… The list seems to be endless! Nevertheless all of you will know that it’s not the good name of the musicians makes the class of an album, but the quality of the songs. Well, I am glad to say that the 12 tracks on “Ceremony Of Innocence” can definitely keep up with the names behind them and that the 10 years spent by guitarist Tommy Denander working on this album has definitely paid out! “Ceremony Of Innocence” contains not only some of the best songs he has ever written but also his best guitar performance to date. “The Story Of Love” (vocals by Geir Roenning), “Crimes Of Passion” (vocals by Bobby Kimball) and “On My Own” (vocals by Fergie Frederiksen) are three powerful and catchy Westcoast Rock songs which thrive on the class of their extra-ordinary vocalists and won’t disappoint any TOTO fan. “Grace” is a soft ballad driven by a smooth rhythm, some dreamily arranged keyboards and the vocals of Kristoffer Lagerström. To tell you the truth, I didn’t like his high pitched vocals at first, but the more often I listened to the song the more his voice grew on me. Jason Scheff of CHICAGO is singing on the following “Waiting For A Miracle”, another classic and very catchy Westcoast Rock song, and the beautiful mid-tempo tune “L. A. Movies” which is one of my personal favourites on the album. “Ceremony Of Innocence” (vocals by Fergie Frederiksen) is a sluggish rock song with some dense but unobtrusive keyboards and some unusual vocals at the chorus. It maybe takes a while till you become familiar with the song but after a few attempts it will definitely pay back the effort you have put into it. “Liquid” is a fiery instrumental track revolving around the unique skill of its players. Next song is the very soft but fantastic ballad “Haunt Me Tonight” written by Richard Marx, Bruce Gaitsch and Fee Waybill. The song is carried by some beautifully arranged acoustic guitars, Tommy Denander’s emotional e-guitar playing and a brilliant vocal performance by Geir Roenning. Anyone who liked Richard Marx’s last album “Days In Avalon” must have heard this song! “A Case Of Right Or Wrong” (vocals by Fee Waybill) and “Silent Cries” (vocals by former ALIEN singer Jim Jidhed) are two more light footed and catchy Westcoast rockers shooting straight into your ears. The album ends with “When You’re In Love”, another true highlight. Bobby Kimball’s powerful vocals set the tone of the song and leave no doubt that RADIOACTIVE’s “Ceremony Of Innocence” is a duty to buy for all lovers of the classic Westcoast sound.
RATING 88/100

PEITERSEN
Radioactive / Ceremony of Innocence /
MTM 0681-32

Tracklisting:The Story of Love; Crimes of Passion; On my own; Grace; Waiting for a miracle; LA Movies; Ceremony of Innocence; Liquid (instrumental); Haunt me tonight; A case of right or wrong; Silent Cries; When you're in Love; Remember my Conscience (hidden track).

After more than 10 years in the making Tommy Denander is now ready to launch his Radioactive project - and what a launch!!
The project, in fact, started when Swedish guitar ace Tommy Denander moved to L.A and worked with all the guys from that area at the time - just around 1987. The list of involved musicians is a very impressive, and features the talents of Jeff, Mike and Steve Porcaro, David Paich, David Hungate, Bobby Kimball, Fergie Frederiksen, Joseph Williams, Fee Waybill, Jason Scheff, Davis Foster, Bruce Gaitsch, Janey Clewer, Geir Rönning, Jim Jidhed, Kristoffer Lagerström just to name a few....
And I must say that even 10 years of wait is a very long time, it was all worth it - the songs, the music and the production is 100% quality. "Ceremony of Innocence" doesn't have any fillers at all - but all tracks are classics! I can't help mentioning "The Story of love" sung by Geir Rönning with its facinating guitar intro, "Crimes of Passion" sung by Bobby Kimball with its powerful energy, the great ballad "Haunt me tonight" written by Richard Marx, Bruce Gaitch and Fee Waybill - but my favorite (even it's hard to chose one) must be the epic "Silent Cries" sung by the impressive Jim Jidhed - the intro is superb and the chorus.... not to mention the solo! I'm exited.
I think the album is much more fresh and "airy" than for example Toto's "Isolation" - which has some of the same wibes - the guitar playing and production allows all involved to participate. But I must must say that Tommy Denander's guitar playing is outstanding all over the record - it's soulful, fast, powerful, emotional and just as important it is not all over the record - it's kept like a good piece of chocolate to the coffee after an excellent meal.
I doubt that this release will be overdone this year - this is already a all time favorite of mine!
RATING 5/5

PENNYBLACKMUSIC
Review "Ceremony Of Innocence" by Radioactive

James from New York, USA

Modern Classic!
I thought this kind of CD didn't excist anymore! I've been a major westcoast/AOR fan for about 23 years and i've since long given up on finding albums like this. Tommy has done something that hardly no other musician has done and for any fan of this music you'd be pretty stupid not to get this. This brings my hope''s back for this kind of music!
James
RATING 5/5

PLAY MAGAZINE
Artista: RADIOACTIVE
Titolo: Ceremony Of Innocence
Numero-MTM: 0681-32

Musicisti:
Jeff Porcaro, Mike Porcaro, Steve Porcaro, David Paich, David Hungate, Bobby
Kimball, Fergie Frederiksen, Joseph Williams, Fee Waybill, Greg
Phillinganes, David Foster, Jason Scheff, Abe Laboriel, Neil Stubenhaus,
Randy Goodrum, Bruce Gaitsch, Michael Thompson, Dean Parks, Vince Dicola,
Geir Rönning & Jim Jidhed...

Pochi ragazzi nel mondo della musica hanno un background così versatile come quello di Tommy Denader.
Chitarrista e tastierista autodidatta dall'età di 5 anni, ha suonato tutti gli stili musicali che vi riesce di immaginare, sia dal vivo che in un album.
Una breve lista degli artisti con cui ha suonato e lavorato: TOTO, FEE WAYBILL, RICHARD MARX, BILL CHAMPLIN, BOBBY KIMBALL, FERGIE FREDERIKSEN, VINNIE COLAIUTA, TONY FRANKLIN, BRUCE GAITSCH, STEVE STEVENS, GLENN HUGHES, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, DAN REED, JOEY TEMPEST, MAX MARTIN, TALISMAN.
Tommy era anche un grande fan di band quali Kiss, Van Halen, Whitesnake e Judas Priest; artisti della coscta occidentale
come David Foster, Toto, Bill Champlin e David Roberts; o musicisti jazz come Larry Carlton e Lee Ritenour ed è anche un fan della musica classica.
Cominciò a fare sessioni per i demo degli amici del luogo quando aveva soltanto 12 anni e realizzò il suo primo album a 14 con i rocker hard rock svedesi ATC, Cut in Ice.
I media presto scoprirono questo ragazzo che poteva suonare come Eddie Van Halen e Eric Clapton e questo fatto di sicuro aiutò Tommy a fare più sessioni, diventando presto parte dei musicisti al top in Svezia.
Nel 1987 si trasferì a Los Angeles dove trascorse 3 anni, che divennero un importante periodo di apprendimento per Tommy e le prime persone che conobbe furono i Toto.
Nel 1991 i Toto suonarono ad un festival svedese e naturalmente Tommy andò ad incontrare i
suoi amici.
Chiese loro se volevano suonare nel suo album e nel giro di 2 secondi avevano detto tutti si! Tommy Denander produsse e registrò 12 canzoni per i Radioactive con Jeff, Mike, Steve Porcaro, David Paich e molte altre leggende della scena musicale. Ceremony of Innocence è un brillante album pieno di star, che vanta una formazione mai vista prima.

CLASSIC ROCK
Radioactive
"Ceremony Of Innocence"

The name Tommy Denander may mean something to those who follow the Scandinavian scene with a microscope, but somehow this little-known Swedish session guitarist managed to rope in members of Toto, Chicago's Jason Scheff and The Tubes Fee Waybill to work on this project.
The Sleeve notes tell a sorry but all too frequently heard tale of record company indifference, but to Denander's credit he's plaugged away since 1991, when Toto first agreed to work with him, and 10 years later here it is.
You don't work with the likes of Toto (minus guitarist Steve Lukather) without producing a great-sounding record, and although not earth-shattering "Ceremony Of Innocence" does sound good.
The highlights, of course, are the tracks where luminaries such as Fergie Frederiksen, Koseph Williams, Bobby Kimball and the aforementioned Jason Scheff take the mic, not the least because the material the kind of grit evident on Toto's Isolation, and syrupy ballads are thin on the ground.
"Ceremony Of Innocence" may be nothing more than an AOR curio, but in this very rare case it's a pretty good one
Jerry Ewing
RATING 3/5

ROCK E-ZINE
Radioactive – Ceremony Of Innocence
12 tracks – 56:38 minutes
MTM

This record has great potential. It’s not just a great album, with cool songs and excellent production, but it features a star-studded cast of musicians. Let me sum ‘em up for you:
Jeff Porcaro, Mike Porcaro, Steve Porcaro, David Paich, David Hungate, Bobby Kimball, Fergie Frederiksen, Joseph Williams, Fee Waybill, Greg Phillinganes, David Foster, Jason Scheff, Abe Laboriel, Neil Stubenhaus, Randy Goodrum, Bruce Gaitsch, Michael Thompson, Dean Parks, Vince Dicola, Geir Ronning, & Jim Jidhed.
And of course Tommy Denander. One of the most versatile musicians (style-wise) who has worked with many of the players mentioned above and more. Yngwie Malmsteen, Dan Reed, Joey Tempest (Europe) Glenn Hughes, Steve Stevens (Vince Neil band / Billy Idol), Toto, Richard Marx and the list goes on…
We all realize it takes more than just good players to make a great album. It takes some songwriting and production skills as well. Thankfully Mr. Denander has these skills. Sharing songwriting credits with Kimball, Frederiksen and others, he has managed to come up with twelve top-notch AOR tunes, much in the Vein of Toto’s later work. Working, like Toto, with different singers for different songs makes for an interesting ride along the talents of the musicians involved.
Frederiksen is in top shape on “On My Own” and Kimball lifts “Crimes Of Passion” to an entirely different level. However; having musicians like these aboard an all-instrumental track would be unavoidable. “Liquid” is an amazing showcase of the combined talents of Denander, Jeff & Mike Porcaro, Neil Stubenhaus, Abe Laboriel, Dean Parks, Greg Phillinganes, Vince DiCola and magnificent saxophone work by Dave Boruff.
This is definitely one of the best MTM releases so far, and one I will be playing over and over, because there simply is so much to enjoy. The crystal clear production leaves every detail for the listener to be found, and I am very happy to tell you that I am listening to “Ceremony Of Innocence” through a couple of Alesis studio monitors. A world just opened up for me.. Now where’s them ‘repeat’ and ‘shuffle’ buttons again?!?
I could go on about this record for hours, but the only sensible comment I can give you, really, is to just go out and buy it. You won’t regret doing so.
(Eef Vink)
RATING 10/10

ROCK REPORT
RADIOACTIVE
Ceremony Of Innocence
2001 MTM Music
12 tracks - TT 56:45

Tommy Denander is a 33-year-old Swedish guitarist and keyboard player who started his recording career at the age of 14. And believe it or not, but in the past 19 years, he has played on close to 400 albums. Among the acts he has played/worked with are majors like Bill Champlin, Vinnie Colaiuta, Tony Franklin, Fergie Frederiksen, Bruce Gaitsch, Glenn Hughes, Bobby Kimball, Yngwie Malmsteen, Richard Marx, Dan Reed, Steve Stevens, Talisman, Joey Tempest, Toto and Fee Waybill. The first album he made, was ATC's "Cut In Ice" (Vertigo, 1984), but I suppose you better know the man from his recent releases with bands like Prisoner, Rainmaker and Talk Of The Town. The album he's most proud of however is this "Ceremony Of Innocence", that has been in the making for more than a decade.
As a matter of fact, it all started in 1987, when he moved to L.A. There he spent 3 years of his life and made many friends along the way. When his friends of Toto toured in Sweden in 1991, he went to see them and asked them if they would be interested to play on a solo album of his. Within seconds they agreed and within a week he was signed to Sony. In October 1991 Tommy spent 3 weeks in L.A. recording ten songs with the Porcaro brothers (Jeff, Mike and Steve) and David Paich. But once back home, the trouble quickly started. Financial problems put an end to the deal with Sony, but luckily enough Tommy was able to buy the tapes back from them and so the second chapter could begin. He decided to take his time and find the right singers. When Jeff Porcaro passed away in 1992, the whole project became a treasure overnight and Tommy promised himself to make this album as good as he could, not only for himself but also for Jeff, because he remembered how much Jeff loved doing it.
Finding contributors for the Radioactive project was no problem. Anyone who was asked as a singer or a session player took the chance to sing and play on a last album with Jeff backing up on drums and percussion. No wonder the list of contributors is quite impressive: Abe Laboriel (b), Alex Ligertwood (lv, bv), Dave Boruff (sax), Bruce Gaitsch (g), Bobby Kimball (lv, bv), David Foster (k), David Hungate (b), David Paich (k), Dean Parks (g), Fergie Frederiksen (lv, bv), Fee Waybill (lv), Greg Philinganes (k), Geir Rönning (lv, bv), Janey Clewer (bv), Jim Jidhed (lv), Jeff Porcaro (d, p), Jason Scheff (lv, bv, b), Joseph Williams (bv), Kristoffer Lagerström (lv, bv), Marcus Liliequist (d), Mats Olausson (k), Mike Porcaro (b), Michael Thompson (g), Neil Stubenhaus (b), Pierre Wensberg (bv), Randy Goodrum (k), Steve Porcaro (programming) and Vince DiCola (k). Impressive or what? Under Tommy's guidance they all sang and played extremely well, which resulted in an album containing 12 songs, which scream to be heard by all fans of westcoast/AOR in general and Toto in particular.
Should Jeff still have been alive, I'm sure he would have liked this album very much. All tracks can be qualified as good to very good and I couldn't trace any misses. Quite an achievement, Tommy! You can read more about this unique project in an extensive Denander interview, which is to be found elsewhere on this very site. (Chris Lambert - August 23, 2001)
RATINGS 83/100

ROCK TIME
RADIOACTIVE "CEREMONY OF INNOCENCE" (MTM/BCD)

12 tracks - Production : Tommy Denander
Started 10 years ago, the RADIOACTIVE project was born at the end of july. Tommy Denander has always being in touch with big names of the Westcoast music. At the age of 19, he flies to L.A to work with...TOTO ! That's the beginning of the story and it will end several years later. Tommy's goal was to bring together as much guests as possible so it's not a surprise to have at least something like 30 names mentioned on the album. All the TOTO members are there (except S.Lukather), including Jeff Porcaro (drums) who will die unfortunately in 1992. David Foster, Fergie Frederiksen, Fee Waybill, Bruce Gaitsch, Michael Thompson are playing on the album too. The songs are written or co-written by Tommy, main guitar player and producer of the project which is an extremely well made Westcoast/AOR piece of work. Well, with such great guests, that's what we expected anyway ! We will notice how carefully done is each piece of this big puzzle that sounds so marvellous. If we identify for sure Tommy's trademark (the sound, clear and killer guitar solos), don't believe that RADIOACTIVE is just a copy of PRISONER, TALK OF THE TOWN or RAINMAKER (the other bands Tommy plays with) as it's not the case. Each band has it's own style and this one is the most polished. Inspired, Tommy was for sure as the songs have a very authentic, true feeling and meaning. That's the big thrill ! Synths, backing vocals, saxo (just a little), great voices, beautiful choruses and still this guitar which illuminates everything, catch our senses and take us in heaven. We can feel the passion and this is an important point. One of the best Westcoast/AOR albums I heard for a (very) long time; a ceremony of innocence that will stay in our heart. Congratulations Lord Tommy !
Jee Jacquet
RATING 9/10

ROCK AREA
Radioactive - Ceremony Of Innocence
(MTM)

RADIOACTIVE is a new project by Swedish multitalent Tommy Denander which unites nearly all the best Westcoast musisicans on one album incl. the Porcaro brothers, Bobby Kimball & Fergie Frederiksen (all formerly of TOTO), Jason Scheff from CHICAGO and many session musicians like David Foster, Bruce Gaitsch, Randy Goodrum, Jim Jidhead and Neil Stubenhaus. 
Tommy Denander wrote most of the tracks, played guitar on them and also produced this disc which should suit any fan of the above mentioned bands. The music on "Ceremony Of Innocence" is centered around sweet melodies and great hooks - pure Westcoast stuff. Highlights include the JOURNEY-reminiscent "LA Movies", the faster "Crimes Of Passion" and  the keyboard-driven "Waiting Fo A Miracle" and "Silent Cries". Together with AORs "Next Stop: L.A." definitely the best album from the genre this year so far. 
RATING 5/6

ROLAND'S WORLD OF PROG
Radioative - Ceremony Of Innocence

Tommy Denander, Jeff + Mike + Steve Procaro, David Paich, Bobby Kimball, Fergie Frederiksen, Joseph Williams, Fee Waybill, Bruce Gaitsch and so on and so on. To hear these names makes the AOR-Fan's mouth water. If this don't happen, I can't believe it. Radioactive is a project of Tommy Denander, who united these brilliant musicians to produce a terrific album. And the style of the album is absolutely comparable with these guests. Toto at it's best (only Steve Lukather is not present). It is a disgrace that we had to wait over 10 years for the release (the songs must be so old because Jeff Procaro made the drums for the most songs and he is unfortunately dead for 10 years). Absolutely a MUST for all AOR- and Toto-Fans.
Roland
RATING 9 / 10

SCREAM
RADIOACTIVE
Ceremony Of Innocence
MTM/SPV

Zu diesem Silberling liegen mir leider keine Informationen vor. Lediglich dem Booklet kann man entnehmen, dass diese Platte eigentlich einen Eintrag ins Guinessbuch der Rekorde verdient hätte - und zwar in Bezug auf die Produktionsdauer.
Die ganze Story begann im Jahre 1991, als Tommy Denander, seines Zeichen Produzent, Songschreiber, Gitarrist etc. dieses Albums, von Schweden nach LA auswanderte. Einige Jahre zuvor lernte er Toto bei einem Konzert in Schweden kennen und fragte sie ganz frech, ob sie nicht auf seinem Album mitspielen wollten sobald er einen Deal in der Tasche hat. Nun, die komplette Band sagte sofort zu, und so sind an dieser Platte bis auf Jeff Porcaro sämtliche Toto-Mitglieder involviert gewesen.
Somit hat die Produktion dieser Scheibe schlappe 10 Jahre gedauert. Herausgekommen ist ein wahrer AOR-Leckerbissen. Fans von Foreigner, Toto, Survivor oder Magnum werden an dieser Scheibe ihre Freude haben. Tommy schaffte es, jedem einzelnen Song das gewisse Extra aufs Auge zu drücken - ob harte und groovende Gitarrenriffs, gefühlvolle Mid-Tempo-Nummern, oder dahinschmelzende balladeske Ohrwürmer - alles findet man auf diesem Album. Die Produktion an sich ist ebenfalls sehr druckvoll und mehr als gelungen ausgefallen und es bleiben keine Wünsche offen. Als Anspieltips möchte ich euch Crimes Of Passion, LA Movies, A Case Of Right Or Wrong und Silent Cries mit auf den Weg in den favorisierten CD-Laden geben. Gute Nacht!
Sven Reinfrank/Nov.2001
RATING 6/6

STRUTTER
RADIOACTIVE
'CEREMONY OF INNOCENCE'
(MTM MUSIC)

About 5 years ago or even more I heard some demos of this project of multi-instrumentalist TOMMY DENANDER and already then I knew this was something really good that had to be released someday. Now it's 2001 and RADIOACTIVE has finally been released. The album covers about 15 years of recording, writing and producing. A lot of people have been
involved, including the whole TOTO crew (except Steve Lukather) and almost the complete LA sessionplayers scene. Just to name a few, there are appearances by the late Jeff Porcaro, David Paich, Bobby Kimball, Joseph Williams, Fee Waybill, Jason Scheff, David Foster, Randy Goodrum, Michael Thompson, Bruce Gaitsch, and the fantastic singers Geir Ronning and Fergie Frederiksen. This is really a high quality pure AOR record with top-notch musical performances from lots of different musicians.
From the start with "The story of love" (great midtempo AOR) until the very end with the fantastic AOR song "When you're in love" (lovely chorus and Bobby Kimball singing at the top of his lungs), this CD shines as being a high quality AOR record. The vocal performances by BOBBY KIMBALL (singing like he did with TOTO back in the beginning), FERGIE FREDERIKSEN (his songs are in the LE ROUX style), Jason Scheff, Kristoffer Lagerstrom, Geir Ronning, Jim Jedhed and Fee Waybill are all very impressive and so are all the performances of the musicians. I don't need to add anything more then to recommend you to buy this album a.s.a.p.!
Gabor Kleinbloesem
RATING 9/10

SUNDSVALLS TIDNING
Radioactive
Ceremony of innocence
(MTM)

Mytomspunnen och efterlängtad släppt nu äntligen Tommy Denanders 10-åriga västkustprojekt med en av musikhistoriens mest imponerande gästlistor. Historien i sig är unik med ung svensk gitarrist som åker till USA för att lära sig mer, blir kompis med TOTO och frågar dem på skämt om de vill kompa honom på hans platta om han någonsin får skivkontrakt.
1991 är affären ett faktum och Bröderna Porcaro ställer upp tillsammans med alla TOTO-sångare genom tiderna, David Foster, Fee Waybill m.fl., m.fl. Myten blir inte sämre av att det är sista albumet som originaluppsättningen av TOTO medverkar på, eftersom Jeff Porcaro dör strax efter. Skivbolagstrassel gör att allt göms i lådorna i tio år men nu är det alltså dags.
Klart att första intrycket är en besvikelse med tanke på bakgrunden, men efter några lyssningar kommer små musikaliska pärlor som Jeffs unika trumspel, några skapliga AOR låtar som kunnat vara utfyllnad på TOTO IV och en navelskådaruppvisning med Mike Porcaro, Neil Stubbenaus och Abe Laboriel som trippelbasister i samma fusionlåt!
Tommy är en duktig gitarrist, han har fantastiska vänner, men är högst hantverksmässig kompositör. Synd att ingen kunde övervaka processen mer kritiskt. Idén var lysande och resultatet har historiskt värde för västkustälskare, men tyvärr blir det inget andra försök att fullborda formeln.
Lars Ericson
RATING 3/5

ADULT CONTEMPORARY MUSIC IN JAPAN
RADIOACTIVE / CEREMONY OF INNOCENCE

Radioactive, the Swedish guitarist Tommy Denander's main project for the last 10 years is now finally taking shape with the album release "Ceremony of Innocence" for March -01. European leading melodic rock label, MTM will proudly present you one of the long long awaited melodic rock album very soon. As a matter of fact, the first song "On My Own" featuring Fergie Frederiksen from Toto on lead vocal has been released on the new MTM compilation Volume 5 CD. It is reported that this version is just a PREVIEW one and the final version will have real drums plus David Hungate (Toto) on bass. And another TOTO vocalist, Bobby Kimball is also on lead vocals for "Crime Of Passion" and "When You're In Love" written by him with Tommy. Fee Waybill, Jason Scheff and an amazing set of guest musicians are participating in this project. Don't miss the amazing RADIOACTIVE album. Japanese version includes a bonus track "Remember My Conscious". One more thing I would like to say here..... I dare to point out that there is one error on Japanese version liner-notes caused by the writer's lack of knowledge. On the liner notes, the writer says " 'Haunt Me Tonight' is the ballads penned by Richard Marx, Bruce Gaitsch and Fee Waybill, which seems to be an unreleased tune for Fee Waybill's solo album 'Don't Be Scared By These Hands'. " This is clearly wrong! This beautiful ballads is recorded by Bruce Gaitsch featuring Richard Marx on the lead vocal for Bruce's first solo album "A Lyle In A Windstorm" (1995). Moreover, probably the basic track of Radioactive is the common one. Tommy added his electric guitars and solo and Geir Ronning sings instead of Richard Marx lead vocals.
Takeshi Ito
RATING 3 1/2 of 5

THE HEAVY METAL PORTAL

I confess that when I read the info-sheet of this one man band I felt a little uncomfortable, as I'm not very into pop-rock. Then I put on the cd and discovered that luckily the pop rock we are talkin' about is something quite similar to some Toto stuff. And then I discovered that this comparison's got some right basis, as the mastermind Tommy Denander's got more than one contact with that band. By