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2006 starts very well, because the AMBITION CD release is definitely a true winner for anyone into Classic 80s AOR. It seems like every project TOMMY DENANDER is involved with is a sensational AOR project, because after the wonderful RADIOACTIVE and SPIN GALLERY releases we can now add the AMBITION project release on FRONTIERS RECORDS. The project however was set up by lead vocalist THOM GRIFFIN, who is best known by AOR insiders as the legendary TRILLION vocalist. Other involved musicians are singers JOE VANA (MECCA), JEAN MICHEL BYRON (TOTO), the Italian bassist/keyboardplayer/producer FABRIZIO V. ZEE GROSSI and drummers Masayoshi Yamasuka and Joachim Cannnaiuolo. The result is an AOR MASTERPIECE! 12 tracks are included on this terrific super sensational AOR release which puts us right into 2006, although the music is definitely very 1980s TOTO inspired. Fantastic vocalwork is combined with fun 80s keys, melodic guitarwork, catchy hooks and memorable choruses, just what we need to hear on a sensational AOR CD! You can easily put this release next to PRIDE OF LIONS, SURVIVOR, STONE SOUP, etc… This is high class AOR that takes a complete major education for 6 years at an University (LOL)! I am not going to discuss each track of the CD, because they are all very good and pure AOR. The absolute highlights however are “Hold on” (superb midtempo AOR a la SURVIVOR/STONE SOUP), “Shaping fate and destiny” (pure 80s dut dut keys, classic uptempo AOR rocker), “Make it alright” (catchy fun 80s keyboard driven uptempo AOR, hello 1985!), “Together” (very strong emotional catchy chorus driven AOR rocker in a SIGNAL/MARK FREE’s ‘Long way from love’ style, straight out of an 80 movie, sounds like the chorus of an old TIFFANY song called “You and me” if anyone remembers that rocker which has nothing to do with TIFFANY’s hitsingles!), “Too much” (superstrong midtempo AOR) and closing track “Waiting in my dreams” (an unreleased MR. MISTER classic!). So there you have it, a pure 80s AOR CLASSIC which should be in the hands of… every AOR fan!!! (Points: 9.1 out of 10) BLEEDING HEARTS ‘POLITICS AND LOVE’ (INDEPENDENT)One of the most original releases I have heard in a long time, this BLEEDING HEARTS from the UK. This band is mixing 80s melodic rock, classic late 70s Oi/Punk and Irish Folk music into a very exciting catchy sound. This band might attracts fans of SKYCLAD, CROWDED HOUSE, GOLDEN EARRING, DROPKICK MURPHYS and any melodic rockfan, so a very diverse audience. I guess the best comparison for BLEEDING HEARTS just has to be the legendary band BIG COUNTRY or IT BITES, because BLEEDING HEARTS is playing in a similar style, combining catchy choruses, melodic vocals, violins and classic rock n roll guitars into an uptempo punky melodic rocksound. Songs like “Patriotic crap”, “Anxiety”, “Politics and love” and “Bad choices” are really catchy songs that you can’t ignore liking. The band has a strong political view as well and because of their original sound, the 3rd CD of them could well give them a breakthrough. More info on BLEEDING HEARTS at: http://www.bleedinghearts.co.uk and e-mail at: foxie@bleedinghearts.co.uk (Points: 8.3 out of 10) Death-Metalband formed 15 years ago, now releasing it’s 2nd full-length CD on the Blues/Instrumental Guitar based label MASCOT RECORDS. What more can I say, for Death Metal fans probably a must-have, because it sounds huge and also offers some good guitarwork for the guitarfreaks, but the death metal growling is sadly starting to sound disturbing after a while. (Points: 6.7 out of 10) FIREBALL MINISTRY ‘THEIR ROCK IS NOT OUR ROCK’ (CENTURY MEDIA RECORDS) ‘Their rock is not our rock’ is the 3rd full-length CD of the LA based band FIREBALL MINISTRY and all I can say, OZZY never sounded better! Fact is that this band sounds like OZZY if he had said no to drugs in the past. But I guess LEMMY fans will also appreciate the vocals of guitarist James A. Rota 2. The title of their new CD is clearly an attack on the current US Rocksound, which has improved, but is not like the early 80s when the kind of classic hardrock of FIREBALL MINISTRY had it’s peak. The new CD of the band sounds like the mid-late 70s/early 80s sounds of BLACK SABBATH, LED ZEPPELIN, THIN LIZZY, MOTORHEAD, OZZY, DIO, KING’S X (yeah a 90s act!) etc. etc. so really Classic Hardrock and on songs like “Sundown”, “The broken”, “Spil the demons” and “Rising from the deep” it is sounding very impressive actually. Definitely one of those bands that could have a big break someday soon, because they have a sound which will be loved by fans of Classic Rock, OZZY and Stoner Rock and there are a lot of people out there liking these styles! (Points: 8.2 out of 10) The Brazilian band STEELY HEAVEN delivers a nice typical Brazilian Melodic Power Metal release in the style of ANGRA, yet of course sounding a bit less sensational, because after all ANGRA is of a very high level and this is just an independent band. Nevertheless, they bring their power metal with a lot of enthusiasm, so I guess fans of the genre will love songs like “Lost in a dream”, “Battle cry” and “Bare your heart” (all uptempo melodic power metal tunes a la ANGRA, STRATOVARIUS). The only pity is that the vocals are not sounding that strong, but who knows that might improve because the band is currently working on new material. For now, more info can be found at: http://www.steelyheaven.com and e-mail at: contact@steelyheaven.com (Points: 7.5 out of 10) Out of Brazil comes ATLANTIDA, and we are listening to something very sensational actually, because the band’s debut CD ‘Painted reality’ is a high quality release. Everything looks and sounds very impressive, combining 80s melodic metal (MAIDEN) with today’s Prog. Metal. 10 songs are included, and especially “Snowrider”, “Burn the bridge”, “Following the sun” and “New frontiers” are fantastic Melodic Metal pieces, with a slight Prog approach (keyboards and breaks) and above all, they all beautiful melodies. The band has created a great CD, which by the way also contains a guest appearance by Kiko Loureiro (ANGRA). Concluded, another recommended band from Brazil to check out. More info at: http://www.atlantidamusic.com (Points: 8.4 out of 10) It’s hard to believe, but in these Rock, Metal, Rap/Hip Hop/R&B and fabricated pop music days there is still room for classic 60s/70s quality poprock music. TIM ANTHONY recently released a new album titled ‘The happy door’, which is the follow-up to 1995s ‘Things that once were’ (a nice 80s melodic poprockalbum). Tim is a singer/songwriter from the USA who makes all original melodic poprock music in the style of THE REMBRANDTS, THE RASPBERRIES, AIR SUPPLY, KYLE VINCENT, 10CC, GEORGE HARRISON, THE ROMANTICS, RICK SPRINGFIELD, THE KNACK, THE CARS, THE TUBES, THE HOOTERS, PHIL SEYMOUR, BILLY BRANIGAN, EDDIE MONEY, MARTIN BRILEY, etc, etc… Together with multi-instrumentalist ED JAMES he has released a CD which would also go well in a sort of 60s retro powerpop style a la THE HOLLIES, THE KINKS, THE BEATLES, THE SEARCHERS… I guess you’ll get the picture how this CD sounds like, poppy, funny, melodic and catchy. Definitely one to play during the hot summer holidays, especially with catchy songs like “All this time”, “Maryllen” and “Mondays with you”! More info at: http://www.jealousy-records.com and e-mail at: info@jealousy-records.com (Points: 8.1 out of 10) Multi-instrumentalist from the USA with a strong retro 60s meets 70s powerpop release in the style of THE REMBRANDTS, THE RASPBERRIES, AIR SUPPLY, KYLE VINCENT and a slight BRYAN ADAMS/JOHN WAITE 80s type of melodic Poprockvibe. Most of the 12 included tracks are midtempo poprockers which are very radio-ready, so pretty catchy filled with memorable hooks and choruses. Fans of mentioned acts will most definitely like CHRIS CHURCH’s music. More info at: http://www.jealousy-records.com and e-mail at: info@jealousy-records.com (Points: 8.0 out of 10) No question about it, THE BEATLES are the most influential band of all times, because almost each album they released in their short career has influenced a rockband somewhere. Of course LENNON/MCCARTNEY were the main members, but also the late GEORGE HARRISON was a musical genius. Within THE BEATLES he wrote some classics, such as “While my guitar gently weeps”, but also in his solo career he came up with some interesting music, which was the inspiration of a whole new Powerpop generation., . The US labels JEALOUSY RECORDS/JAM RECORDS have released a tribute to GEORGE HARRISON, put together by singer/songwriter TIM ANTHONY. The CD contains 19 tracks by 19 different acts, all in the melodic powerpop genre, very interesting and hopefully one or more I’ll be able to track down for review of their original material, because without a doubt acts like THE DROWNERS, CHRIS RICHARDS, LISA MYCHOLS, GLOWFRIENDS, BLUE CARTOON, TWENTY CENT CRUSH and SPARKLE JETS UK are doing good covers of classic GEORGE HARRISON powerpopsongs. More info on this and other releases of JEALOUSY RECORDS at: http://www.jealousy-records.com and e-mail at: info@jealousy-records.com , while you can also get more info at: http://www.jamrecordings.com and e-mail at: jeremy.morris@juno.com (Points: 8.3 out of 10) I received a couple of CDs by a band called THE BRAMBLES, whom have been making original melodic poprock music in the style of THE REMBRANDTS, THE RASPBERRIES, THE HOLLIES, KYLE VINCENT, 10CC, GEORGE HARRISON, THE ROMANTICS, RICK SPRINGFIELD, THE KNACK, THE CARS, THE TUBES, THE HOOTERS, PHIL SEYMOUR, BILLY BRANIGAN, EDDIE MONEY, MARTIN BRILEY, etc. which means catchy little melodic poprock with 60s and 70s influences, but also a sort of retro early 80s vibe can be heard. The band features the brothers TIM and LOU ANTHONY, of whom Tim also has a solo career going on. Together with Lou, Tim is in the band THE BRAMBLES, with whom he released 3 CDs so far, ‘Holiday from love’ back in 1997, ‘Next big thing’ in 2000 and a CD-single in 2002 which featured a GEORGE HARRISON cover. Their 1997 record had a strong 80s approach that at the time of the original release 8 years ago sounded more dated than it does now, because now this kind of catchy poppy melodic poprock is quite hot again. All their albums are filled with catchy melodic retro power pop, which for people with THE BEATLES kinda nostalgic memories will absolutely be a must to hear and I therefore can recommend anyone who likes any of the mentioned acts to check out THE BRAMBLES for some great fun summer melodic poprock music reminding of anything before 1982! More info at: http://www.bramblesmusic.com or http://www.jealousy-records.com and e-mail at: info@jealousy-records.com (Points: 8.2 out of 10) Vocalist/Guitarist CHARLIE FARREN from Massachusetts, USA has a long musical history which goes back to the early 80s as singer/guitarist for the JOE PERRY PROJECT, the band of the AEROSMITH guitarist. Later he found fame and fortune with the band FARRENHEIT, with whom he released a bunch of albums, of which I was sent 2 of the more recent releases, because the band still exists. Musically FARRENHEIT was a pure 80s aor/poprock affair with some funky taste as well (read: PRINCE) and both of these recent releases (‘Raise the roof’ and ‘Farrenheit 3/Greasetown’) are worth checking out for a fan of THE OUTFIELD, 1927, GLASS TIGER, MR. MISTER, etc. Charlie also has a solo career, of which ‘Deja blue’ is one of the latest releases. The album has nothing to do with rock, because it is an acoustic album with only Charlie’s vocals as extra dimension. Happily, Charlie has a fantastic voice, but I do hope his next CD will rock like FARRENHEIT did in the past. More info at: http://www.charliefarren.com and e-mail at: charlie.farren@verizon.net (Points: 7.9 out of 10) Classic 80s type of Melodic Hardrock/Hair Metal is what to expect of the US band RUSSIAN ROULETTE, who hail from Illinois, although the 3 CDs of them were recorded in the late 80s/early 90s. The CDs are now available again through the band’s website and as probably not many people ever heard of RUSSIAN ROULETTE, this review should made them aware of a pretty good band. The band had a good singer and musically the typical late 80s US Mainstream Melodic Hardrock sounded as a cross between DANGER DANGER, FIREHOUSE and VAN HALEN. Of the 3 albums sent to me, the best one was ‘First shot’, their debut CD from 1989, which features some excellent melodic rockers in the shape of “Tonight” and “Russian roulette”. Somehow somewhere their other albums are sounding equal to the ‘First shot’ record, so quite good as well, just a bit weaker in sound/production quality and also heavier. Both albums from the early 90s are filled with nice Melodic Hardrock once again which mostly sits nicely in a classy 80s MAD MAX/STORMWITCH kinda melodic rockstyle, with here and there a NWOBHM sounding tune (“Stars and shadows”), so a bit less FIREHOUSE/DANGER DANGER orientated than the first record. All 3 CDs are definitely a must-have for any fan of 80s guitar orientated Melodic Hardrock. More info at: http://www.russianroulette.us (Points: 8.2 out of 10) Original American band with a sound which mixes the best of a lot of rockstyles, because despite the fact they sound modern here and there, they still have a strong classic rock touch in their songs. The band has a very good singer (Guitarist/Keyboardplayer Aaron Marsh) who if he goes right up to a high pitched voice even reminds one of a Sebastian Bach, Freddie Mercury or James LaBrie, but the music is different, because it is more modern melodic poprock with all sorts of influences. 10 songs are on their CD and after a rather calm start with “No one really wins” and “Choose the one who loves you more”, the band comes up with a rather catchy 80s melodic poprocker titled “Pin your wings” which will even attract THE CLICK FIVE fans. On the other hand the band feels most comfortable at a calmer modern melodic pop/progrocksound which reminds me a bit of PINK FLOYD here and there (“Sleep”) and also JOHN LENNONish BEATLES influences and even QUEEN similarities (“Kite”) can be heard. Also highlights are the catchy melodic poprocker “Don’t slow down” and the very impressive progressive melodic rocker “Love is a fast song” that sounds like a mix between DREAM THEATER, U2 and RUSH!!! The band’s singer could impress me even more if he keeps hitting the high notes more often next time, because he sounds quite awesome when that happens! I am quite sure this band could have a big break if they are lucky, because they sound radio ready sometimes and some of the mentioned songs are really impressive. Definitely a band to check out for the more open-minded melodic rockfan. More info at: http://www.thecopelandsite.com http://www.themilitiagroup.com (Points: 8.2 out of 10) 3 girls and 1 guy form the band SCARLET ANGEL, who hail from Baltimore, USA. The band sent me their same titled debut CD, which is filled with high class Melodic Heavy Rock/Metal in a pure 80s style, think of a mix between BITCH, PHANTOM BLUE and GIRLSCHOOL. Songs like “Chains of rock”, “Iron clad warriors” and “Fear the night” are typical 80s Hair Metal monsters which will be loved by the fans of this genre. Always gives me a good feeling knowing there are still bands out there playing this genre, because 20 years ago every band with a female singer down the LA Sunset Strip was playing this style, but the past 10 years you really had to look deep into the heart of America. SCARLET ANGEL does it all very well and I am certain that fans of mentioned acts are gonna love this record. More info at: http://www.scarletangelrocks.com (Points: 8.0 out of 10) Another strong high quality release from Finland in the shape of the 2nd EP CD from VANITY INK, a female fronted band which sounds like LULLACRY, LEE AARON meets DORO. The 5 included songs have a fantastic sound/production, which definitely helps and also the fact the band’s lead singer Annabella has a good strong voice makes it a pleasure to listen to the CD. Songs like “Living a dream”, “Downward bound” and “The drug you want” are good impressive uptempo melodic heavy rockers with big 80s approach, without sounding dated. Better check this band out if you’re a fan of female fronted melodic heavy rock/classic hardrock. More info at: http://www.vanityink.net and e-mail at: vanityink@vanityink.net (Points: 8.2 out of 10) Classic 80s US Melodic Hardrock reminding a lot of 80s KISS, KEEL and some DANGER DANGER. Especially the PAUL STANLEYish vocals of singer (and guitarist) Wayne W. Johnson are making them sound a lot like 80s KISS. 5 songs are on the CD of this New York based band and the reason why it sounds that 80s orientated is the fact that the songs were written some 15 years ago! Nevertheless, this is cool in your face 80s Melodic Hardrock with strong vocals, especially on uptempo songs like “Slave to the hourglass” and “The queen of pleasure” (hell yeah! Best song with flashy guitarwork and a strong catchy sound a la LOUD AND CLEAR’s debut). A definite must-have for fans of 80s Hair Metal! More info at: http://carolineblue.com and e-mail at: carolineblue13@yahoo.com (Points: 8.1 out of 10) GLASS WOLFE from California make a return with their 2nd CD, which this time features besides female lead singer MARIA GLASS and keyboardplayer PHILIP WOLFE a list of well-known guest musicians such as STUART SMITH, NEIL CITRON (VAI, LANA LANE), DARIO SEIXAS (FIREHOUSE), IAIN ASHLEY HERSEY, HOWIE SIMON and members of bands like ROX DIAMOND, UNDER THE SUN, THE FOUR HORSEMEN and several others. The result is a nice sounding album which musically is an epic adventure into the worlds of classic 70s hardrock, epic melodic neo-classical metal and 80s melodic rock, not really far away from LANA LANE actually. Maria shows she is a good lead singer and I am quite sure fans of quality hardrock/metal with passionate female vocals are going to like this new GLASS WOLFE CD a lot. The CD counts 10 long songs which in total will please you for almost 1 hour. Only the production could have been a bit better, but further this is an impressive independent release which will mostly please the LANA LANE fans, although I must add that the CD is not as good as any of Lana’s material but that’s also hard to beat if you consider that Lana’s music has been the best in female fronted rock the past few years! More info on GLASS WOLFE at: http://www.philipwolfemusic.com or http://www.glasswolfe.com and e-mail at: philandmaria@earthlink.net (Points: 7.9 out of 10) If there ever was a way to describe modern aor/poprock it can be heard on the CD of the American band THE LOST ANGELS, because they actually play AOR in a sort of modern jacket. Sometimes reminding me of MARK SPIRO and SOUTHERN SONS, this band was born during X-Mass 2004 which was the sad Tsunami disaster in Southeast Asia, to which this is a tribute CD for all the people who lost their lives. 11 songs are included and with strong AOR songs like “Too little too late”, “Come closer”, “Everything or nothing” and “Evo” this band sounds modern and classic at the same time. The band also throws in some Westcoast influences here and there. It would not surprise me if fans of DAKOTA, TOTO, STREET TALK and that kind of timeless AOR/Westcoast are going to love this THE LOST ANGELS a lot. CD is available through: http://www.thelostangels.net and the CD is available through: http://www.abrown.com while you can email them for more info at: abrown@abrown.com (Points: 8.2 out of 10) What if CANNATA, ALDO NOVA and BRYAN HUGHES would take away the vocals of their music, well then I would sound like this CD of MACLEOD. His debut CD is filled with high class instrumental music which combines classy 80s AOR/Sympho and 70s Pomprock into a fine rocking sound. You always wonder how good it would sound if vocals had been added, but anyway this is a great instrumental CD, fitting perfect into an 80s action movie score. MACLEOD stands for guitarist/bassist/keyboardplayer Don Macleod. This American musician played most of the instruments on his debut CD, except for the drums which were played by ANDY BISHOP. One for the fans of instrumental bombastic Sympho-Pomprock. CD is available through: http://www.abrown.com while you can email them for more info at: abrown@abrown.com (Points: 8.1 out of 10) Nothing original about the new CD of the Italian band SHINING FURY, because the fast Italo Melodic Power Metal is closer to LABYRINTH and VISION DIVINE than any other band has ever been. On the other hand it all has been done very well, so if you’re looking for something similar than this is a definite winner for you. Songs like “Fast and easy”, “Colours and experience” and ”Five years ago” are very strong fast melodic uptempo Italo Power Metal songs which easily reach the high level of LABYRINTH and VISION DIVINE, so fans of those band exactly know what to do with the release of the 2nd CD of the Italian band SHINING FURY. (Points: 8.3 out of 10) Through the years a lot of rare releases have been of XYZ material before they got their recorddeal. Most of these releases were actually illegal and the recent XYZ CD release ‘Rainy days’ was the reason why lead singer TERRY ILOUS decided to officially release a CD filled with XYZ demos recorded between 1985 and 1991. Terry has the official copyrights and the mastertapes of these demos, so therefore this is an official XYZ CD release. Without a doubt, XYZ was one of those bands that should have been big in the 80s, because they had the voice, the songs and the look to become as big as BON JOVI. The band’s lead singer Terry had an incredible voice, which sounded like a cross between DAVID COVERDALE and DON DOKKEN. Don also produced the band’s debut album, but actually the music of XYZ was different, pure 80s guitar orientated bluesy melodic hardrock. Songs like “Souvenirs” and “When I find love” are instant classics, so it was very interesting some unreleased songs of the band. The CD consists of 18 songs, of which a few are featured twice, but there are all unreleased demo versions or even unheard XYZ songs. The sound quality is also quite good if you consider that these are 15+ year old demos. Songs like “Lonely without you”, “”Missin you”, “Made for love” and “It could be you” are very strong 80s melodic hardrocksongs. Must-have for XYZ fans of course. Available through: http://www.xyzmusic.com (Points: 8.5 out of 10) The legendary German Melodic Metal band MAD MAX makes another comeback, but this time it might be their best record in 20 years! ‘Night of white rock’ is an early 2006 release and definitely a great appetizer of another new year in Rock and Metal. Musically the new MAD MAX grabs back to the early 80s as well as the wonderful debut of CASANOVA, so we get to hear strong Melodic Hardrock with catchy hooks, memorable choruses and Michael Voss’ best lead vocal performance since his CASANOVA debut. 11 songs are on the CD, which contains uptempo rockers, midtempo rocker and semi-ballads. Highlights include the uptempo melodic (heavy) rockers “To hell and back”, “Homeless”, “Nights of white rock” and “Hope to see you”, the lovely midtempo melodic rocksongs “Losing it again” and “Sun”. Fans of BONFIRE, GOTTHARD, SHAKRA and even 80s STRYPER/DOKKEN can also easily grab this CD, because this is prime-time Melodic Hardrock at it’s best, so a great return of MAD MAX! (Points: 8.4 out of 10) Not to be confused with all the other bands named TOKYO, this TOKYO is coming out of the UK and they sent me a 4-track demo CDR, which musically offers good strong melodic rock with a slight updated sound, kinda like a mix between KICK and TORINO. The first 2 songs are very impressive, a bit more modern than the final 2 songs, but both “All this time” and “No one left to blame” are good semi melodic rockers, while the other 2 songs are more straight-forward 80s uptempo melodic hardrock orientated. Nice band to check out at: http://www.tokyomusic.co.uk (Points: 8.0 out of 10) Yet another release featuring guitarist TOMMY DENANDER, but this time a little different musically (less AOR) and also actually one of the first projects Tommy ever started. In fact, SPEEDY GONZALES was born in 1990 and back then demos were recorded, but somehow they were shelved for almost 15 years. Now SPEEDY GONZALES is very much alive again, because the 4 members recorded 12 brand new songs (including 1 cover of the TALK OF THE TOWN classic “Free like an eagle” from their unbelievable 1980s classic debut CD) and METAL HEAVEN gives it an official January 2006 release. Besides Tommy on guitar, also the 3 other members of SPEEDY GONZALES are quite well-known musicians, such as lead singer THOMAS VIKSTROM (amazing singer who sang on many records, including STORMWIND, DARK ILLUSION and TALK OF THE TOWN), bassist MARCEL JACOB (MALMSTEEN, TALISMAN…) and drummer DANIEL FLORES (MIND’S EYE), so actually this is a all-star band with 75% Swedish musicians. Musically very strong Melodic Metal which sounds quite diverse actually, because “Electric stalker” sounds like PRIEST with stronger melodies and uptempo melodic heavy rockers like “Desires of the flash”, “Do you know where the kids go”, “Free like an eagle”, “Lost and desire” (very strong faster uptempo classic 80s melodic metal) and “Spit in the hands that feeds you” (80s WHITESNAKE meets TALISMAN) are all very memorable tunes in a sort of PRETTY MAIDS meets TALK OF THE TOWN melodic rockstyle, while a beautiful EUROPE/RAINBOWish semi melodic rockballad like “Men with medals” is also present. Awesome vocalwork, perfect musicianship, mixing beautiful melodies with strong biting metalish guitarwork, definitely an impressive CD release… (Points: 8.5 out of 10) Here we have a strong independent release from Norway. Band is called ESCAPETOR and their 8 tracks counting CD features a good deal of classic 80s US Melodic Power Metal in a sort of METAL CHURCH, JAG PANZER and ARMORED SAINT style, which means big fat guitar riffs, diverse vocals (raw and screaming, but also at times very melodic) and strong catchy memorable songs. PRIEST influences can be heard, but still the band feels safer to combine Technical and Thrash Metal influences into their Power Metal. The band sent me their CD, but also a DVD with a look behind the scenes as well as a videoclip. Check out ESCAPETOR for yourself at: http://www.escapetor.com and e-mail at: home@escapetor.com (Points: 7.8 out of 10) The mid-late 1980s saw a couple of well-received PHENOMENA albums, which featured a bunch of well-known rock musicians and was set up by the brothers Tom and Mel Galley (ex-TRAPEZE). Musically it was a very AOR/Melodic Rock orientated affair and now after all these years ESCAPE MUSIC managed to organise a new PHENOMENA CD release which features more or less some of the same musicians as on the previous releases. Of course, the high level of the first 2 PHENOMENA is not reached, also the music is heavier and less keyboard orientated, more traditional melodic hardrock. Nevertheless, the new PHENOMENA CD is a great album that has it’s highlights in “Sunrise”, “So near so far”, “Higher” and the semi AOR ballads “How do you feel” and “All that I need”. Not all of the 11 songs are interesting, because here and there we can find a weak song such as “Killing for the thrill”, “God forgives” or “Crazy groove” which all suffer from very average choruses, but on the other hand most of the vocalwork is very awesome (thanks to GLENN HUGHES and also the singer on “So near so far”). Contributions are made by GLENN HUGHES, TONY MARTIN, MEL GALLEY, KEITH MURRELL and many more musicians from the classic British Rockscene (WHITESNAKE, DEEP PURPLE, BLACK SABBATH, MAMA’S BOYS, TRAPEZE), so a guarantee for nice quality Melodic Hardrock with passionate vocals! (Points: 8.1 out of 10) Italian Sleazy Rock N Roll as nasty as it used to sound, but currently is quite popular once again with bands like TURBONEGRO, BACKYARD BABIES, HELLACOPTERS and the Godfathers of this raw rock n roll style: MOTORHEAD whom have always been popular in the 30 years since they actually introduced this sort of sound, although they were not the first, because NEW YORK DOLLS and THE STOOGES were ahead of them. Anyway, a step forward to the present day learns us that THE WANKERS are from Italy and they sent me their 2nd demo CDR which features the aforementioned sleazy rock and roll. Guitarwork is quite stunning, yet vocally and also production wise it could use an improvement.. Nevertheless, fans of mentioned bands will definitely love this THE WANKERS. More info at: http://www.wankerschaos.tk (Points: 7.7 out of 10) The Finnish band KILPI has a new CD out, which musically continues the style of their previous albums. Be aware that this is not a new CD, but a CD-single with 1 song! Happily, the particular song is a very strong uptempo Melodic Metal song with very good vocals and a sound somewhere between STRATOVARIUS and GRAVE DIGGER, with Finnish lyrics. More info at: http://www.musiikkijakelu.fi (Points: 8.0 out of 10) Band from Finland that started as a Glamrockband with a few albums in the 1990s, which I sadly haven’t heard yet, but this is a new single CD which features 4 songs that musically go into a sort of bluesy southern hardrockstyle. Not bad, but maybe their previous albums were more interesting, as now only fans of let’s say GRINGOS LOCOS or ZZ TOP might like them. More info at: http://www.rosydream.fi and e-mail at: rosydream@jippii.fi (Points: 7.3 out of 10) I honestly do not know what to do with this release, because it certainly is one of the most weird releases I ever received. Professor Sir Millard Mulch gives lectures about his strange physical researches all over the USA at universities and now has a 3-CD set out which is a sort of 4-hours counting conversation with instrumental backup here and there (by some very well-known musicians such as members of STEVE VAI, SPOCK’S BEARD, TEARS FOR FEARS, SHAWN LANE, PLANET X, etc.). I truly do not know how to describe this CD, but take it from me that it is only interesting if you completely understand the meaning of it’s release, so I think you better head over to their website at: http://www.mutantmall.com and http://www.sirmillardmulch.com for more info, because this release should not be considered a serious music release. (Points: -) 2005 saw 2 awesome Melodic Metal releases by LAST TRIBE mastermind and multi-instrumentalist MAGNUS KARLSSON, STARBREAKER and ALLEN/LANDE. Especially the ALLEN/LANDE release was one of the best releases from the past few years. FRONTIERS RECORDS now has another new release which is a collaboration between Magnus (responsible for all instruments and songwriting) and lead singer TONY O’HARA (ex-PRAYING MANTIS). Musically a bit more AOR/Melodic Rock based than the other 3 bands/projects of Magnus, but still featuring the same sort of melodies. This is definitely not just a PRAYING MANTI S type of record, but a really strong AOR/Melodic Rockalbum with very good vocalwork and in the shape of “Escape into the sun” (pure midtempo AOR), “High enough” (lovely), “Dreamless nights” (pure ALLEN/LANDE), “Close to me” (pure midtempo AOR), the beautiful AOR ballad “Never alone” and “Start all over” (very nice uptempo AOR/Melodic Rock) we can hear some very sensational songs. Maybe not as sensational as STARBREAKER and ALLEN/LANDE, still a very impressive release worth checking out if you’re a dedicated melodic rockfan! (Points: 8.8 out of 10) The legendary NWOBHM band BITCHES SIN has actually never really split up, but due to the death of the whole scene the band struggled for many years, continued under a different name FLASH POINT, but kept on performing and recording. Now 4 CDs are available from their website, which are 2 BITCHES SIN and 2 FLASH POINT releases. The BITCHES SIN releases (‘The first temptation’ and ‘Invaders’) are featuring pure NWOBHM type of material, not as good as their early 80s material, but nevertheless interesting for die-hard NWOBHM freak. Strangely enough I am much more impressed with the FLASHPOINT CDs. These are both very strong 80s type of AOR/Melodic Rock orientated releases, of which especially ‘No point of reference’ is a very impressive 80s American Melodic Rock release recorded in 1988, but now available on CD. Songs like “Blackjack” (strong faster uptempo 80s Euro Melodic Metal a la MAD MAX, PRETTY MAIDS…), “Modern lover” (classic 80s Canadian melodic rocker a la CHAMPION, VANCOUVER, URGENT, APRIL WINE, TRIUMPH with blastering guitar solo) and especially “Is it true” and “No more love, no more lies” (heavy keys, pure 80s AOR at start, both songs high class sensational very polished uptempo mid 80s AOR a la AGENT, AVIATOR). In between these songs you can also hear some RATT/DOKKEN/AUTOGRAPHish US Melodic Hardrock such as on opener “Hot tonight”. Out of the 4 CDs sent to me, the FLASHPOINT CD ´No point of reference´ is the strongest release, deserving a 8,5 points rating. The other FLASH POINT CD is slightly weaker, although it features the sensational AOR song “Lazer love”. All CDs are available through: http://www.bitchessin.co.uk or http://www.a1cds.co.uk and e-mail at: info@bitchessin.co.uk (Points: 8.2 out of 10) Never change a winning team is something which definitely concerns BOB CATLEY, because he might have changed the music style of his band MAGNUM through the years, during his solo career which started 8 years ago he never changed his music style, because right from the very start until this new 2006 album we can hear nothing but strong Melodic Hardrock with a classic THIN LIZZY/WHITESNAKEish guitarsound and really catchy melodic choruses as well as Bob’s fantastic vocalwork. ‘Spirit of man’ is yet another album which proves that Bob solo is much more interesting than any of the MAGNUM releases since 1986. Although MAGNUM released classics in their early years, they lost it a bit and therefore this solo career of Bob is a nice addition to the weaker new MAGNUM material. The new BOB CATLEY album ‘Spirit of man’ is another winner for fans of strong tight melodic rock! Songs like “Heart of stone”, “Moment of truth” (lovely!), “Blinded by a lie”, “The fire within me” and closing track “End of the story” are all very sensational, following the 80s MAGNUM style and therefore I can easily recommend this CD to any Melodic Rock/old MAGNUM style fan! (Points: 8.6 out of 10) In the category ‘whatever happened to ex-members of famous bands’ we have a guy called DANNY PEYRONEL, who once was in UFO, but only for a short period, including writing a song titled “Highway lady” which has also been recorded for his solo-CD ‘When the monkey dance’. Danny also wrote songs for MEATLOAF, SADE and was a member of the bands HEAVY METAL KIDS in the 70s and TARZEN in the 80s. His new solo-CD is basically filled with classic rock which melts influences of CHEAP TRICK, BEATLES/PAUL MCCARTNEY, THE WHO and AEROSMITH into a good catchy melodic radiofriendly rocksound. Danny was songwriter/keyboardplayer and backing vocalist for 30 years, but on his solo-album we can hear him sing. With his raw whiskey like lead vocals he has a slight JIMMY BARNES meets FRANKIE MILLER kinda style. Best songs are uptempo rockers like “Never been cool” and the UFO song “Highway lady” with blastering guitarwork and AEROSMITHish AOR ballads such as “Affection”, “Ships in the night”, “Bigger than love” and the JOHN LENNONish “When I’m dead”. Danny also recorded a few covers, such as 80s PINK FLOYD “Lie for a lie” and “Midnight at the lost and found” (MEATLOAF). Anyone who likes Classic Rock in a sort of JOHN MILES, JIM CAPALDI, PETER FRAMPTON kinda singer/songwriterstyle will like this CD most definitely. Available through: http://www.targetrecords.de (Points: 8.0 out of 10) In the 1980s NIGHT RANGER brought us some unbelievable timeless melodic rock classics which 20 years later are still played and appreciated worldwide. The band has about 10-15 songs in their repertoire which truly belong to the best ever recorded in melodic rock history. In the 1990s the band recorded a few less sensational records, because the band went into a more modern rock direction. Now there’s a new NIGHT RANGER CD released, which celebrates the 25th year anniversary of the band. It’s not featuring any new material, because what we get to hear is 11 new version of all-time NIGHT RANGER classics. So basically this is a best of recorded in 2005. Happily, the band stayed true to the originals, so actually this CD shows the boys can still rock like in the old days. Difference with the original recordings is that these new versions are more guitar orientated and also the harmonyvocals seem to sound better produced. I am not sure why this CD is called Hits acoustic and rarities, because basically we get to hear 9 new electric versions of NIGHT RANGER classics, an acoustic version of “Sister Christian” and a live version of “Don’t tell me you love me”, so a better title would have been ‘The best of NIGHT RANGER re-recorded in 2005 + 1 acoustic + 1 live’. Anyway, whatever you call it, this is a fantastic collection of some of the best 80s melodic rock classics. Even these new 2005 versions of “Four in the morning”, “Don’t tell me you love me” (with one of the most awesome guitar solos ever!), “When you close your eyes” (in my top 10 songs of all times!), “(You can still) Rock in America”, “Sing me away”, “Rumors in the air” and the ballads “Goodbye”, “Sentimental streets” and “Sister Chistian” gave me chills. How exciting I would become if these guys ever would come over to Europe to tour, but I guess Japan and the USA will still be the only places to see them live on stage, so I’ll have to stick to the bootlegs I have of them for now. Anyway, this new 2005 recorded best of CD is available through: http://www.irock.com (Points: 8.5 out of 10) The saga of sensational new Finnish bands continues, because here we have HELLCITY 13, who sent me a 3-track promo CD which features some very impressive catchy melodic rock 80s style with a slight Finnish melancholic THE RASMUS/HIM touch. Opener “In your eyes” shows right away that we are dealing here with a professional sounding band, which could easily be signed by a major label someday soon. Also the other songs, “Masquerade” (with a very sensational AOR chorus!) and “Is anybody out there?” are very strong tunes. I can’t wait for a full-length CD. Check out these Finnish melo rockers at: http://www.hellcity13.com and e-mail at: mika@hellcity13.com (Points: 8.5 out of 10) Chile has a very big Power Metal scene, but sadly we don’t get to hear any of these bands, but happily I was able to track down a Chilean band called MAGISTRAL, who show on their 3-tracks counting promo and DVD with videoclip to be one of the best South American bands at the moment. They have a superb tight European Melodic Power Metal meets classic 80s US Power Metal sound (a la ANGRA, KAMELOT, BLIND GUARDIAN, BLACK MAJESTY, LABYRINTH…) and although they were formed in Chile, they actually are now based in the USA. The band even added an American guitarplayer to their line-up. Anyway, they played Progpower USA and after listening to their 3-track promo I was convinced that this band will not only be signed by a Metal label soon, but also they truly have got the ingredients (including a fantastic lead singer, who sounds like ROY KHAN meets LANCE KING, only slight problem is that his English is hard to follow sometimes) in becoming the best new band from South America since ANGRA set foot to this world. At the moment they are by far the best band from Chile! Better check them out at: http://www.magistralweb.com and e-mail them at: band@magistralweb.com (Points: 8.5 out of 10) American band which falls a bit out of place on the Rock&Roll/Glamrocklabel POPTOWN RECORDS, because they mix Extreme Metal with Nu- and Death-Metal, so there’s nothing melodic on their CD ‘The light that failed’. More info at: http://www.poptownrecords.com (Points: -) Singer/songwriter CHRIS LAUBIS has released a CD which is clearly early 70s T-REX/JOHN LENNON based, but also a comparison to CINDERELLA’s later records and ENUFF’Z’NUFF is possible, because this is steel-guitar based calmer Southern US Rock meets late 60s Psychedelica Rock (early PINK FLOYD, late THE BEATLES)with TOM PETTYish vocals. Chris even got help from a few well-known musicians, such as FRANK CARILLO (who recorded a bunch of melodic rockalbums as CARILLO in the late 70s) and RICHIE SCARLET. If you’re starting to become interested, the CD is available through: http://www.poptownrecords.com (Points: 7.3 out of 10) ALICE COOPER meets BLUE OYSTER CULT meets THE RAMONES meets NEW YORK DOLLS meets HANOI ROCKS meets THE TUBES. That’s what this pure mid 70s Classic Rock/Hardrock sounding band is all about. Their 2005 released CD basically recalls memories of all these acts, yet still with an own identical sound. The songs are quite melodic actually, mostly uptempo rockers with great guitarwork in pure 70s style. In total 15 songs are included and the best ones are “When monsters fall in love”, “Haunted”, “Stay with me” and “The creature stole my surfboard”. More info at: http://www.poptownrecords.com (Points: 8.1 out of 10) |
AMBITION ‘AMBITION’ (FRONTIERS
RECORDS/ROUGH TRADE) 
COPELAND ‘IN MOTION’ (THE
MILITIA GROUP) 
GLASS WOLFE ‘PREDATOR’
(INDEPENDENT) 
XYZ ‘FORBIDDEN DEMOS 1985-1991’
(FYCO RECORDS) 
MAD MAX ‘NIGHT OF WHITE ROCK’ (AOR
HEAVEN/ROUGH TRADE) 
SPEEDY GONZALES ‘ELECTRIC
STALKER’ (METAL HEAVEN/ROUGH TRADE) 
PHENOMENA ‘PSYCHO FANTASY’
(ESCAPE MUSIC/ROUGH TRADE) 
TONY O’HARA ‘ESCAPE INTO THE SUN’
(FRONTIERS RECORDS/ROUGH TRADE) 
BOB CATLEY
´SPIRIT OF MAN´ (FRONTIERS RECORDS) 
NIGHT RANGER ‘HITS ACOUSTIC AND
RARITIES’ (I ROCK ENTERTAINMENT)