Though Monster Ballads was an exceptionally strong collection of pop-metal and AOR power ballads, Monster Ballads, Vol. 2 features just as many genre-defining hits; in fact, it's hard to believe some of these numbers didn't make the first volume. Some of the songs are a little more obscure this time around, but surprisingly, most of them can hold their own with the heavy hitters, some of whom appeared with different hits on the first volume. There are a few mediocre cuts (Firehouse's "Love of a Lifetime" still sounds pretty putrid), and once again there are no Bon Jovi, Slaughter, or "Every Rose Has Its Thorn." But power-ballad classics like REO Speedwagon's "Can't Fight This Feeling," White Lion's "When the Children Cry," Billy Idol's "Eyes Without a Face," Warrant's "Sometimes She Cries," and Saigon Kick's "Love Is on the Way" (an underrated offering that hit just as grunge was taking over) more than fill the void. Whether you're still a genuine fan or just have a nostalgic soft spot for this stuff, Monster Ballads, Vol. 2 is another well-executed power-ballad collection that's just as worthy as its predecessor. ~ Steve Huey, All Music Guide