Back in 1992, Giant released “Time To Burn”—a defiant slab of melodic rock at a time when the world was falling at the feet of grunge. While the mainstream embraced flannel and fuzz, Giant delivered polish and precision. Over the years, a few comeback attempts fizzled, but in 2021 they found the missing piece: Kent Hilli to take over from Dann Huff.
The Swede, best known for fronting the excellent Perfect Plan, has a voice made for this kind of music—soaring, soulful, and unmistakably melodic. Teaming him with Winger’s John Roth on lead guitar was a masterstroke. Tracks like “It’s Not Right” remind you exactly why Giant mattered in the first place.
“Stand and Deliver” is a record made for those who never stopped believing in melody, hooks, and harmonies. If you’re a fan of classic Giant—or just a fan of melodic rock in general—this is as good as it gets. It’s soaring, accessible, and executed with class.
“A Night to Remember” sounds unapologetically retro, and that’s entirely the point. The keys are pure ’80s sheen, while the layered harmonies on “Hold the Night” transport you back to an era where the chorus was king. And what’s the point of music like this if you can’t throw your fist in the air and belt out a chorus or two? “I Will Believe” is pure defiance, and “Beggars Can’t Be Choosers” keeps the tempo high while dropping lines like “the game that we call love”—because, of course it does.
“It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over” is every inch the power ballad you think it is, but that doesn’t stop it from being a massive one. The title track “Stand and Deliver” brings a bluesy, strident swagger—something fans of FM and the like will eat up.
The mid-paced “Time to Call It Love” is a classy moment, and “Holdin’ On for Dear Life” is everything AOR should be. For those with a softer side, “Paradise Found” offers the album’s tenderest moment—although if, like me, you’re a little more cynical, then “Pleasure Dome” and its tougher edge will be more your speed.
Giant have been flying the flag for melodic rock for over 30 years—the kind of music that was supposed to be wiped out by grunge. “Stand and Deliver” is a timely reminder that not only has it survived, but it’s still capable of sounding vital.
Rating: 8/10
REVIEW: GIANT – STAND AND DELIVER (2025)
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