10/10

By Glenn Milligan

Encountering hidden talent from beyond the Iron Curtain seems so hard nowadays that when they do appear one feels inclined to give them star treatment.

Bulgarian quartet Big Mama Scandal have been hidden - some 19 years in truth - and this could be either …like their tenth album or something, or a very long awaited debut. Either way, they chuck a sizeable brace of pleasant melodic rock tunes at us and I savour most of them right from the initial spin.

Talked about as being a glam act, the sound is more aptly matchable to Tyketto and Mitch Malloy with an acoustic topped throwaway electric guitar sound so beloved of such stateside gems. There is not a tremendous deal for innovation -seekers to talk about but those hungry for great straight ahead rock numbers with instant hooks and slick melodies have fourteen pretty appetising morsels for their plates here.

Occasional Van Halen-schooled keyboard moments from vocalist Ibo Gochev seem unnecessary on the end of one or two tunes but nothing gets ruined and the CD remains recommendable to anyone who likes poppy guitar-driven rock that doesn’t try to be anything other than what its made to.

Fabulous stuff and a great advert for both their earlier and future catalogue.

9/10

By Dave Attrill

Leo Biollo - From The Depths Of Hell To The Gates of Heaven
(S/R – 2009)

What a remarkable man Leo Biollo not only wrote the tracks, but performed solely coving Guitars, Brums, Bass and Vocals and to finish off by mixing, and producing the CD.

This progressive thrash metal enters a world of its own with a hint of Kreator, Venom, Megadeth and Possessed to bring the blood to boiling point as the CD pounds and rips your soul out as 'Demonic Abduction' enters the body and leaves 'The Depths of Hell, 'Return of Will' and the 'Desire to Rise' fighting for supremacy as 'Killing The Demon' wins the battle to leave you with the keys to 'The Gates of Heaven'.

Leo Biollo is a committed individual who knows where his heart lies and his head rests and full on thrash metal is where it all meets.

This guy is a genius.

9/10

By Tony Watson

Black Label Society - Reissues
(Armoury Records – 2009)

Armoury records have released in July all Zakk Wylde CDs which include solo stuff and Pride and Glory, but the CDs that are being reviewed were released in August 1919 Eternal, The Blessed Hellride, Hangover Music Vol. VI, Kings of damnation and Mafia. Zakk Wylde/Black Label Society are like Marmite, you either love him or you really despise the style of metal he plays with his continuous guitar licks, whammy bar crunching and whaling.

The problem with Black label Society is that no matter what CD you put on, there is no defined change from year to year, style to style or even tone to tone. The same hard hitting aggressive metal music disperses through the air waves like a blanket of fog that engulfs the deaf in his mellow tone drone. You can't disagree that Zakk can be a cleaver and talented guitar player, but we can all agree it's the same thing over and over and over and over again, which become a bit repetitive and boring.

Throughout the CD's excluding Kings of damnation, which is a compilation, I found it difficult to separate the albums to give them a true feel to the style of that time, but the only thing i would say is that Dead Meadow on Blessed Hellride made a marvellous change with its melodic piano intro and soft undertones throughout, which didn't release any foreseen guitar wanging.

Overall the collection is worth having but be prepared to leave the CDs on the shelf for a long time as repetition becomes boring.

6/10

By Tony Watson

Blazing Clash - Blazing Clash (Princess of Rock)
(S/R – 2008)

As a five track demo you get the raw feel of the band as they pound their way through good solid heavy metal.

Princes of Rock was the original title to the demo from the four piece Italian guys, who have a passion of old style metal such as Priest or Maiden or even early Accept.Blazing Clash have the passion and the enthusiasm to push the band forward with their metal style and commitment to each other. The Demo has 'Prelude' (instrumental), 'Back From The War', 'Made Up To Be A Monster', 'The Hammer' and 'Princess Of Rock' to finish off a flash back to the eighties.

Very enjoyable and as a demo a must have.

7/10

By Tony Watson

Before jumping to the conclusion that this is a new album….it is kind of ….more technically speaking an old new album.

Has been kicking round on this veteran Brit AOR outfit’s dusty shelves since the company due to release it went t*ts up in the mid 80s, (there is a give away to this in the band pic), the eleven tunes have matured like sacred whiskey hops to be tasted by those still with the loyalest of musical tongues in 2010. Ballsy throughout with an unexpectedly American sound, the London 5 piece deliver a comparatively raw style with classic era-associable production.

The instant raunch vibes of numbers like ‘Can’t live Without Your Love’, ’Carried….’, ’There’s A Reason’, ’When The Lights Die Down’, ’One More Time’, ’Tell Her’ and ’Two Silhouettes’ got the disc onto its second run without me needing to touch the play button. Short no -nonsense solo licks and welcome appearances by sax add the completing blocks to a towering musical structure that kindly stands up after over two and a half decades awaiting completion.

With live work and possible reformation for a brand new disc circling the rumour mill, these chaps may be about to enjoy a second coming of immensely sudden and successful proportions.

Awesome!

9.5/10

By Dave Attrill

RECOMMMENDED IF YOU LIKE:
Statetrooper, Autograph, Lion, UFO* & Magnum.

* Former UFO drummer Clive Edwards was amongst the line-up that recorded this album.

Bruno Rock - War Maniacs
(7Hart – 2009)

Brunorock is a solo project from Bruno Kraler of Dark Sky and Nightpride with the help of Bobby Altvater (Affair), Dominik Huelshorst (Bonfire) John Billings (Lancia) and Alessandro Del Vecchio (Eden's Curse) that have developed a masterpiece of a rock album.

Although released in 2009, this classic 80's rock CD releases so much power, rhythm and rock even Bon Jovi would be proud to put his name on it.

This 11 track CD cuts through butter quicker than a hot knife as we get a steady balance of guitars, drums, bass and synthesiser, which is topped of nicely with a power and strong vocal. As the CD releases 'Breakthrough', 'Liar' and 'Julia' the ears are then hit by their rendition of the AC/DC classic Touch To Much, which isn't too bad. I must admit some covers are shocking but this one isn't too bad.

Overall a very pleasant CD that will get any big wig banging

8/10

By Tony Watson

8/10

By Dave Attrill

RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE:
Fear Factory, Strapping Young Lad, Ocean Machine

8.5/10

By Glenn Milligan

7.5/10

By Glenn Milligan

8/10

By Tony Watson

2/10

By Tony Watson

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Tony Watson

7/10

By Tony Watson

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

7/10

By Glenn Milligan

7/10

By Glenn Milligan

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

‘If You Want To Fly’ EP is a four-track sample demonstrating what the band is about, an acoustic version of the title song also throws a different spin in to their talents. ‘Face The World’ is a nine track CD that opens up the true capabilities of the band, with the guitar riffs, power cords and melodic interludes.

With these guys being from Europe you know what to expect, although the CD was pleasant to listen too, I feel there is something missing, which reduces the continual playing and the admiration that it may deserve.

7/10

By Tony Watson

Randall Bramblett - Now it’s Tomorrow
(New West Record - 2008)

What a refreshing change, don’t let the name or the cover of the CD put you off. If the softer rock is more your choice and the likes of Cold Play, Travis, U2 or even REM are the dominant bands in your CD collection then I would recommend this one to be placed there with them.

From the start of ‘Sun Runs’ to ‘Lets Go’, through ‘Some Mean God’ to the last track ‘Where a Life Goes’ fills the air with such calm it will relax even the hardest of men with an ambient trance of love and joy.

It’s not often you can turn round to people and say I have got a wonderful relaxing CD for those evenings next to an open fire with a nice glass of Chianti, nibbles and an evening chat amongst the nearest and dearest.

P.S. my wife has never stopped playing it and she is giving it 10/10

8/10 from me, Enjoy!

By Tony Watson

Sebastian Bach - Angel Down
(DR2/Demolition Records - 2008)

A brilliant brand new album from Canada's finest Rock Voice, Sebastian Bach who proves he certainly don't need the name of his former band anymore to score any points.

This sees's Bach, 'Back In the Saddle' (again) alongside his buddy Axl Rose for this and 2 other songs - making the album worth having for this song alone - even though it's an Aerosmith cover. '(Love Is) a Bitchslap' and 'Stuck Inside' are f*ck*n killer numbers too - perfect duo if you ask me as the voices blend perfect.

There's so much power and energy on here that it could fry the sh*t out of you if were measured in electric volts, take for example the ferocious title track 'Angel Down' or the crunchy moderate speeder that is 'American Metalhead'.

He's still able to deliver driving 'stop you in your tracks' emotional ballads with 'By Your Side' being on the same quality of songs of his yesteryears like 'I Remember You' or '18 & Life' that show the dynamism of his vocals from beatiful angel sweetness to the bawling screech he is also famous for.

Other major songs on the album include 'Our Love Is A Lie' that wouldn't be out of place on one of the GNR Illusion albums; the excellent 'Stabbing Daggers' that is like Pearl Jam meets Metal; the aired previously in-concert 'You Bring Me Down' and the epical balladeering closer 'Falling Into You' where Seb is at his finest vocally, not to mention a gorgious arrangement that is vocal & piano led with the rest filling in the gaps.

The UK release features an exclusive DVD entitled 'Roadrage' where you see what you are letting yourself in for on a live basis - it's all good I tell thee as well as a look around the recording studio, rehearsal studio not mention an insight into band members like Metal Mike!

There's something on these here discs for all lovers and likers of Seb.

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

9/10

By Dave Attrill

1/10

By Tony Watson

6/10

By Tom Brumpton

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE - Scream Aim Fire
(Sony/BMG)

An outfit of the rare breed prepared to name an album after their vocal style, Bullet For My Valentine are a much more integrally formed produce than even I was first led to assume.

As I noted during my first encounter with them, that being their GNR support slot in 06 which in turn led me to give their debut disc a rizz - a not unto-mentioned eighties edge to their product did indeed transcend, and with this new’un, this is even more evident just one tune’s duration inward. The opening title number itself leads me to believe that frontman/guitarist Matt Tuck has been taking a few stints of axe tuition from Kai Hansen of German metal goliaths Gamma Ray - that intro riff the chief incriminator.

Fond as I am of all things European and loud, which being British this lot are of course, ‘Eye Of The Storm’ offers more of the same trad metal aggression coupled with their contemporary take on the seemingly again popular genre before mellowing affairs a bit for ‘Hearts Burst Into Fire’. Yes, these lads do soft stuff as well and we hear a bit more of it through the remainder of the platter though for every tactful interval, we sustain about five times as many skull-unfriendly shred attacks from messrs Tuck and Padge, and the result is one delightful ratio, ‘Waking The Demon’, ‘Disappear’, ‘Deliver Us From Evil’,’ Say Goodnight’ and ‘Last To Know’ being several potential favourites themselves.

Inevitably destined to shift about four-five times the million or so units they have done to date with ‘The Poison’, B.F.M.V’s road is still a rapidly upward route but a long way from encountering the hole they like every band, hope to avoid falling down. While most of the other punters, mostly of the ageing purist-ey variety, headed for the bar that night at Sheffield Arena, I stood my ground, and gave them the chance. Shame on all those who didn’t, as you’ve turned away from a treat here.

8.5/10

By Dave Attrill

BASS INVADERS - Hellbassbeaters

(Frontiers Records - 2007)

An act that features Markus Grosskopf, Tom Angelripper, Schmier, & Peavy Wagner. When I learned some time earlier in 2007 of Helloween legend Markus Grosskopf’s current spare-time escapade, one reacted in the natural way i.e. “What the f$#%?” Only a man of his talent could take this brave liberty, with only ELP being the other guitar-less rock/metal act of any significance to date.

I had only one word – well two - to say on listening to this first effort, - NOT BAD. Raking in other famous names of the four-string trade, with Billy Sheehan, DD Verni and Rudy Sarzo being just three, MG has concocted a fresh and diverse collection of metal tunes from styles right across the board (well with members of Whitesnake and Mr Big involved it had to be expected) and most of them impress.

You get the effective equivalent of lead bass and rhythm bass as supposed to their absent six-string counterparts, with solos included and after a while spent listening to catchy cuts like ‘Armageddon’, ‘Godless Gods’, ‘Empty Memories’ and ‘Razorblade Romance’, the instrumental abnormality of this album seems less of hindrance or note.

While Mr G has obviously got the commitments with Weikath and co on his shoulders at present with latest album ‘Gambling With The Devil’ to promote globally, hopefully a dip in activities for Germany’s finest will result in a second serving of power metal’s best experimental venture in years.

Do not let Kerrang’s 2-K review deter you from judging for yourself, there is decent material available under this sleeve even if the sound may take a little getting used to.

8/10

By Dave Attrill

BEGGARS BALL – 1321
(SR – 2007)

Noisy US quartet Beggars Ball’s collective moniker is quite fast to light up the little red bulb above the plate that reads ‘glammy sleaze/cock rock act’ but a little way in and I detect a false alarm.

Their quite stoner metal –tinted sound owes a fair few tads to all things LA/Sunset strip associated but is barged aside by a grindy guitar edge landing potentially much too far of the guide line for the comfort hair-rock purists. No bad thing fro fans of the uncategorisable, it is not though ‘til the second (vocal) cut that the intended hooks establish some presence and the live potential follows for most of the other three.

It’s only a disappointing fact that on a couple of tracks, the vocal melody of the chorus doesn’t move about enough to distinguish itself from the verse, but the worse crime committed is the other five numbers turning out to be mere rehashes of what’s just gone over the preceding twenty minutes.

As a well known British saying goes ....cheeky beggars!

7/10

By Dave Attrill

Frankie Banali & Friends - 24/7/365 The Tribute To Led Zeppelin
(Red Samurai Music/Evangeline Music – 2007)

One of those classic ‘get a load of rock names together and produce an outstanding tribute album to one of the UK’s best loved and hugely successful groups – that one that features Bonham, Jones, Plant and Page – yes, I mean those rock icons who were originally called ‘The New Yardbirds’ who need no introduction.

Some albums of this nature fall flat – but not this one since you have knockout performances from guys like Mark Boals & Bruce Kulick (The Ocean); Jeff Scott Soto & Gilby Clarke (Royal Orleans); Don Dokken, Michael Lardie & Steve Fister (Kashmir) and 8 other killer tracks that see peeps as high calibre as Glenn Hughes, Bobby Kimball Reb Beach & Doug Aldrich get involved in.

Each track features Frankie Banali on Drums (with John Bonham’s Snare kindly loaned for the album) and Tony Franklin on his customised fretless bass. It beautifully ties in with the Led Zep reformation and the Mothership album as well being released.

There’s been a few Led Zep tributes CDs around, but even so, this one is well worth having. Wot No ‘Stairway To Heaven’ – only kidding!

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

7/10

By Glenn Milligan

9/10

By Dave Attrill

8/10

By Dave Attrill

RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE Damned Nation, Eclipse, Honeymoon Suite, Prisoner, Alfonzetti, Talisman

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

A solid and ruthless affair with a bluesier edge on one or two songs, having been on ice (tee, hee, ,hee, Dave) for so long has only strengthened their musical muscles six-fold. Body Count - a band you refer to as has-beens at your own risk entirely.

8.5/10

By Dave Attrill

RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE
Stuck Mojo, Rage Against The Machine, Biohazard

8/10

By Dave Attrill

8/10

By Dave Attrill

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Dave Attrill

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

3.5/10

By Dave Attrill

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

BIRDS OF PARADISE/CHARGER - Split single
‘For All Intents And Purposes’/’Ornine Utopia Anthem’
(Calculated Risk Records)

Charger’s contribution to this double A-side, is subtitled ‘You Are already Dead’, which may work as a tactical description of their fortunes if they fail to produce anything more listenable than this twelve minute lump of totally directionless industrial dirge which I just manage to sit through in its entirety. Repeating the same riff for two thirds of the duration tests me as it is.

The latter act are better but no more than acceptably so, same sort of vocals though very badly affected by the mixing, but to more a tuneful musical trek, adding in pin-prick pinches of pop and blues twang but still nothing to get too excited about overall. Still, they’ve got more than just one song - I hope - of their making so maybe next time..

5.5/10

By Dave Attrill

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

8/10

By Dave Attrill

RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE
Boy Sets Fire, Boy Hits Car, Vision of Disorder, Shadows Fall

5.5/10

By Dave Attrill

A neat comilation of the triple B's - that old cult glam band that famed glittered silver highlighted hair guitar hero came from - or in other words the genious that is Keri Kelli. It just shows you where Pretty Boy Floyd and Shameless got it all from - sh*t both Steve Summers and Alexx 'Skunk Michael' will kill me for saying that - oh well - ne' mind - check out 'Stop the world' and 'Hero' for perfect examples.

Love the acoustic ballad about a guys girlfriend with the line 'Everybody loves my baby' with the Tyla like style. Then there's an a la Malmsteen instrumental as well and of course a ton of sleaze spilled all over the CD. Hey, if you fancy a Christmas classic then go for 'Winter Wonderland' - makes me laugh.

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

6/10

By Glenn Milligan

I'm not sure of their exact nationality, though from the sleeve details I'm at least guessing there's Scandinavian dealings afoot here, but B.T. are a worthy addition to the scene to watch out for, this year.

9/10

By Dave Attrill

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

I have encountered it before but when it comes to one or two chords - or should I say notes played continuously at 100mph along with growls indecipherable enough to condradict the presence of lyrics, the end of thirty-five minutes of this racket can't come quickly enough.

A case of extreme metal's main ingredients rather overcooked and unfortunately burning the veg too. Oops.

4/10

By Dave Attrill

Live in 2004, for a radio broadcast - not that you wouldn’t have guessed that from the title. Hereby find 15 electric ditties culled form their 2 studio albums ‘Broken Teeth’ and ‘Guilty Pleasure’ (must get that sometime).

Can’t go wrong this album at all. Just full on squawkin, rawkin’ ecstasy with renditions of songs like ‘Pull the plug’; ‘Stick it in’; ‘Undertaker’; ‘El Diablo’ and many more.

Crank this up.

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

He's got it right there - Jean can change his musical skin like the reptile itself and compose, perform and arrange any musical style single-handedly - I'm sure that Jean is short for Jeanius.

It's moving 'n' emotional 'n' grabbing with opener 'I wanna know' concreting that statement from the start - it's very Terence Trent D'Arby. Just don't expect 'Crown of Thorns like material or it'll disappoint but if you want a varied album then it's one for you. It's poppy at time and takes an African flavour aboard on 'When the river runs deep' that's about partying with friends.

The girls are gonna like this release as well as the lovers of romance out there who'll lap up tales of happiness like 'Even More'; 'Something to believe in'; 'Angel'; 'Amazing' or the Anastasia like 'Addicted to Us'.

Every track is 100% beautiful and worth 100% of your attention.

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

So what exactly happened to Part 1, may I ask... never mind, we can't have everything, can we? Not actually a solo act but the joint name of two of their three members, the Brit newcomers help see the burgeoning trend of melodic rock/alternative crossover style cultivated on our side of the pond as well.

Think Blink 182 and Green Day, watered down and add elements of Def Leppard and The Police on the melody side and there's certainly no crime in trying this sweet little six-tracker out for size. Subject of a fair whack of stonking reviews from various zines across the nation, David R. Black can add another one to that collection.

8/10

By Dave Attrill

Wham bam, Italian Glam. They have the elements of Pretty Boy Floyd, Poison, Love/Hate and Skid Row.

Find humour in 'Granma Glam' with it's 'I wanna f*ck you' line; the mono come stereo ballad 'Strange Days' or the slammin' 'Give me my money back'.

Glam doesn't get much better than this!!

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

A 4 piece band from San Francisco who are groovin' and laid back with a Hendrix-like vibe especially on 'Who burned my building down?'

'Live to Ride' is a chilled out cut about being on two wheels on the freeway and is kinda Eagles'ish while 'Light of the morning sun' is very much like The Outlaws getting together with The Beatles, Ry Cooder and Tom Petty.

Looking forward to hearing the full album when it's ready for release. 100% proof that you don't have to come from way down south to have that rebel sound.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

They could be called a supergroup as opposed to a project as they've been at it for 10 years now. They feature the following - Albert and Joe Bouchard of Blue Oyster Club; Deborah Frost of 'Flaming Youth' plus David Hirshberg and Ross the Boss of Dictators and … wait for it … Manowar.

So what's on offer - blues rock and good old fashioned rock as well with both male and female vocals. It's a compilation of previous album material (not that I've heard any of it before but they must be great releases by the sound of these tracks with highlights being the stompin' 'Swamp Thing' (1999); a dirty bass thing called 'Gun' (1996) that's like Blondie meets AC/DC and Bubble; the rock 'n' roll of 'Victory Boulevard' and the 'No more Hero's' like (as in The Clash) 'Sally' (1995) about a chick whose been up to a bit more than blackberry pickin' in the hedges.

If you fancy a bit humour then you gotta go for '(666) Devil Got your mother' (1994) about Satan getting your mom up the duff and ending up with Beelzebub as your brother who looks like John Denver.

Beats me why they have remained underground for all this time.

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

Though they may be led by the hap who lends his name to the band, Bonrud are similar in more ways than one to someone else whose last name begins with that syllable. Then again whilst Paul Bonrud's line in tune-penning fails to differ totally from that New Jersey chappie's recent produce, his own combination commercially scores the goals for him.

Throw in a healthy dose of Mitch Malloy, a mastering of Nelson and a good few juices off some of those Artenzia-signed nu-breed types on top of the initial ingredients as supplied by Jon you-know-who and this recipe is quickly completed. Tuck in if you drool at the sound of hook-soaked pop rock with melody and diversity blended in over a mixture of tempos plus a hint of punk/alt flavouring to trick the taste buds a bit but there'll be little room for any pudding afterwards though.

Already a major sighting in most independent record stores, this debut by one of the label's best signings this year should not be missed. Buy, if only to finance a visit by this chap to British stages in the near future.

8/10

By Dave Attrill

Whether or not they have taken their name from Roy Scheider's 'Jaws' alter-ego, these young men pack quite a bite in their material. Generally it's pretty typical run-of-the-mill contemporary metal but in most parts not without its hooks buried in.

As most who've logged onto this site more than twice in their life previously are likely to be aware, this end of rock n' roll is not often something I'm that quick to sink my teeth into, (you done with the s**te jokes yet, Attrill?) but this definitely rates as a grower after three or four listens. Just when I thought it was safe to diss nu-metal off again…..

7/10

By Dave Attrill

Stan Bush's last minute slot-switch with Dare at last year's Gods was almost as much a bad thing as a good thing - the one major down-heartening point for most being that his 65-minute set had to follow Wharton and co's 90-minute one. Another was not having any material from this latest powerhouse of an album ready to be aired on that night.

The opening treble-barrelled attack of 'Shine', 'Falling' and 'I Will Be There' are laced with Stan's trademark latterday sound that accounted for the quality of his last two discs before 'I Turn To You' comes across as almost total Two Fires fare. Current drummer Kenny Aronoff actually played on the Ramos/Chalfant-fronted project's first outing, four years back.

In other places we have rockers like 'Say It Ain't Love', 'Have You Ever Believed' and the disc's numero uno 'The Chance You Take', amongst the most memorable tunes he's penned since that one he did for a certain kiddies cartoon flick, nearly two decades ago. With a voice still showing but not one iota of faltering, and ripping guitar work from new man Tim Pierce, S.B. has nothing to worry about for a long time. Pity that not as many take to this Bush as they do to a certain other one.

9/10

By Dave Attrill

So the smart arses are gonna say, "So where's Volumes 1 to 5?" but of course the vol.6 refers to the fact that it's the sixth album release from BLS. It's a record that like many out there I have been waiting for Zakk and his pack to put together for a few years. They've shown us briefly what they can do on other albums when it comers to ballads and softer melodic numbers but this release is full of 'em.

Every single song and I mean every single single song is a complete f*ck*n' masterpiece. All the album grabs your attention and there's a mix of genres covered like blues, rock, metal and country - all at once at times to create what can only be described as the sound of 'Black Label Society' in a vibrant and positive mode.

You can't pick one song above another so I'll randomly pick a few out to tell you about. 'Steppin' Stone' looks like it's a stab at the music industry - people being used as a way to get higher up the ladder no matter what may happen. 'Takillya (estayabon)' is a compkicated Spanish instrumental ditty that is a perfect introduction to 'Won't find I here' about someone who doesn't know what he wants and has the exceptional lyric, 'No need for tomorrow when you can't find today.

A stand-out fave for me is 'House of Doom' where no-one as Zakk puts it 'gets out alive'. Despite the straining in the vocal department in his piano version of Procal Harum's 'Whiter Shade of Pale', you can't help but like it. 'Crazy or High' the albums opener is awesome as is the swayful 'Fear'. The contemporary 'No other' could be mistaken to be a Lynryd Skynyrd.

This is easily the best album I've heard so far that's been released this year.

10/10

By Glenn Milligan

A new version of the Track Records company have re-released the 1st two Blue Cheer on 1 single CD and good on 'em too.

Vincebus Eruptum (meaning 'Control of Chaos) is legendary as the band blew up the control room the first time the engineer tried recording them (he did say to set up and play like they were doing a gig - fatal!! they did warn him previous but so be it. Second time around and it came together in a few days flat. The finished article is loud and pushes blues and rock to its distortive limit especially the volume of the drums and guitar. With their big hit of Eddie Cochran's 'Summertime Blues' as well as other album tracks like Mose Allison's 'Parchment Farm' with the classic lines 'all I did was shoot my wife, I guess I'll be here for the rest of my life' it's a milestone of an album.

InsideOutside is very much a psychedelic affair and melts what you'd expect to hear from early Pink Floyd mixed in with The Yardbirds. It's a far more polished release than 'Vincebus Eruptum' take for instance the charged 'Sun Cycle'; the bass 'n' drum driven 'Just a little bit'; covers of The Rolling Stone's 'Satisfaction' (Otis Redding Style) with a from left to right pan throughout and Booker T. Jones' 'The Hunter' and then their own funky blues number 'Babylon'.

Be good to see all the others re-released on Compact disc as well.

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

Familiar surnames? - they should be because it's two of those guys from Thunder 'Danny 'n' Luke' who are soulin' and funkin' it up with their other musical outing performing material that at times wouldn't completely work in a Thunder set.

This is more Otis redding and Stevie Wonder with plenty of oomph. A few covers are aboard like Wonder's 'Living for the City'; 'I can't stand the Rain' and 'Come together in the morning' by Free - songs that are given 100% and just as good as the original versions - in fact Danny always wanted to be Paul Rodger's (as he personally told me last year).

The originals easily match up nicely as well like the piano/bass led funk of 'Desire'; 'Why did you do it?'; and 'Waiting for the sky to fall'. There's enough zest to grab the rock entourage and plenty of passion for the soul 'n' funk fanatics.

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

Brooklyn Boys who sound like rednecks cranking up rock 'n' roll that's all the vibe, flavours amd elements of some of the best in the biz. There's the swagger of Zodiac Mindwarp, the thrilling boogie stomp of AC/DC; the early attitude of G 'n' R and the electricity of The Sex Pistols.

Recorded all in one day (September, 9th 2003 to be exact), Butchers Bill keep it flowing throughout with simplistic upbeat rock that includes knockout songs like 'No good' about not being right for some chick; 'Going Home' because it was a crap party and 'Gun For Fun' (no explanation needed there!!).

These boys put the enjoyment back into rock 'n' roll and prove that good albums don't take forever to record.

9/10

By Glenn Milligan

Is their any member of Night Ranger still yet to release a solo disc on this label? As frontman for the San Fran legends, you'd expect Jack Blades to be the first in line, but everyone has already got in before him on that one, Kelly Keagy's 'Time Passes' being the best of the rest so far. Jack's material is however as furthest away as any of the Ranger boys have got from that they created together.

The first five or so are the expected AOR product though towards the end of the first half of the album, you can notice the differences starting to dissolve in. By the end of the disc, you're wondering if another band got recorded on to the disc by accident, because the material couldn't aim in a more Beatles-esque direction if Jack sat up all night thinking about it. While enough bands round the planet make livings out of pilfering ideas from McCartney et al, to J.B it probably seems just a matter of over-influence because this is smashing stuff from the vocalist/bassist who has reeled in a star studded cast for the guitar parts including Ranger colleagues Brad Gillis, Jeff Watson, Ratt's Warren DeMartini, Journey's Neal Schon, ex-Brother Caine man Damon Johnson and even himself.

With the question of another Night Ranger CD ever being recorded bugging the minds of many, at least the personnel are busy in other ways, and Jack Blades knows there is no excuse for him to just sit at home either.

8/10

By Dave Attrill

Quite what someone of my mullet rock magnitude is doing reviewing this release by one of alt rock's biggest names is beyond me. I know exactly what to expect from this lot ... Or do I now? Initial play of opener 'Feeling This' is quite promising, housing a noticeably multi-way structure. 'Obvious' is of similar complexity, and hey, I'm liking this album already. So you see it's not all 'In, three chords and out again' in this business.

These three lads make the effort to put a bit more creativity into their writing and through the first seven numbers, 'The Fallen Interlude' ( which is as prog as a punk-pop band dare get, in particular ),they tell this like it is. 'Go', 'Asthensia', 'Always', 'Here's Your Letter', 'Not New', and Anthem Pt 2 (Live) are about the only formulaic throughout cuts that of the sixteen-strong album but the material is still kept a tad higher above the water by Messrs Hoppus and deLonge's occasional dual vocal alternations.

Strong material from one of America's currently biggest bands and which deserves more to keep them on top than most of their scene counterparts.

8/10

By Dave Attrill

Late 60's noise-mongers caught live 'n' loud in the land of the dragon - well Air West Tokyo and Osaka Club in Osaka to be exact.. It's bluesy, it's ferocious - kind of like Mountain meets Rory Gallagher with the demolition effects of Hendrix.

There's a mass of OTT distortion fuzz and wailing gruff vocals that work well with the arrangements like the great riffing 'Big Trouble in Paradise' and the slow paced blues of 'Blue Steel Dues' that frontman, Dickie Peterson says was inspired by his brother - a fine musician but a bad, bad, man. You can't help but love the Motorbikin' Hell's Angelness of 'Ride with me' and yes, before you ask they do their squawkin' mad take of 'Summertime Blues' and the dirgin' 'Out of Focus and 'Doctor Please'.

It's vibrant and climaxing rock 'n' roll.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan

Sonic Boulevard is the latest instrumental release from Swedish prog-rocker Tomas Bodin (Flower Kings). This album doesn't just reflect Bodin as a keyboard player but as a skilful composer, bringing together an array of instruments to create his own clear vision of this album.

Slipping from deep and moody to stylish and bright with skilled production. Certainly Sonic Boulevard is reflective and can be compared with the Flower Kings and other explorative bands. But with this Bodin explores areas of jazz and soundtrack music to create something that stands out in the crowd.

8/10

By Steve Windle

Barrelscraper, I was going to rename this lot when the first three, and probably only three, chords struck but no, these American din-dealers seems to have been taught better than that. Producing some sort of semi-commercialised hardcore thrash noise would amount largely to their credit and I can see a sizeable amount of interest from old(er) school followers with this, especially if Pro Pain, Pantera and Machine Head.

Featuring the two-way vocal style of singing and growling on alternating rosters, piled on top of classic-style chugging rhythms a la Metallica, this material should garner loyalty from right across the extreme metal fraternity.

8/10

By Dave Attrill

Now you'd be forgiven for thinking that these guys were full on USA, Southern State Red-necks with a taste for the heavy feel if Black Label Society but are in fact they are from Sweden.

Excellent stuff - ballsy, strong Rock 'n' Metal Blues in the style of Lynyrd Skynyrd meets The Cult (especially the track 'Angels High').

Among the album there's a kick in the testicles to townies on 'See you burn'; a ZZ Toppy-type number called 'El Rancho'; a ditty that's pure Sabbath named 'Original Sin and a slammin' maestro piece titled 'Hillybilly Blues' that has that enthusiastically addictive country blues guitar solo.

More like this please is needed for these ears. "The South's gonna rise again tonight" as Donnie Van Zant will put it. Get your arses over ere soon.

10/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Vocally, think Metallica, White Zombie and Paradise Lost and musically their own thing supporting it. Melodic, subtle and brooding, I'd appreciate another taste from this lot as I still haven't got the clearest picture of their intentions but I'm interested so far. Keep it up.

7/10

By Dave Attrill

Another Swedish band, who appear to be going places - aren't they all!! It so happens that Blind Dog are on their second album here, their first disc, the equally ludicrous -sounding 'Last Adventures of Captain Dog' apparently having gone down quite a treat in their native land's metal market. If you've either heard the Divine Propaganda CD or read the review, you should be a degree clued up on this offering's resident tones.

Guitars deeper than the ocean and their frontman, whatever his name is, sporting a good Flynn/Anselmo range which he tames down suitably for the more sixties oriented parts of the album. An approachable collection of tunes -one or two numbers may takes some getting into but if you like the old-fashioned-meets-new-fashioned thing, I'd suggest trying if, for definite.

7.5/10

By Dave Attrill

RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE
Metallica, Pantera, Sabbath and the Beatles all rolled into one.

Bulgarian born 'Nikolo Kotzer' is a multi-talented instrumentalist whose released an album of high class rock and metal that you won't tire of because it's very varied in styles - be it melodic rock (One life to life); Symphonic Power Metal (Eyes of the Horizon), AOR balladeering (I'll be ever free) or the late 80's Malmsteen majesticness of 'Slip Away'.

There's even Yngwie connections here too as the as the album features the vocal talents of the ex-Malmsteen frontmen Joe Lynn Turner, Goran Edman, Jorn Lande and current wailer, Doogie White.

There's even hints of Richie Blackmore also as 'Mr. Earthman' is as 'Purple as possible and the track 'A whole lotta woman' rocks you out with attitude - just hope Led Zeppelin don't throw a benny at the title.

Can't fault this album one bit !! The band is even made up of ex-members of Europe - Ian Haughland (Drums); John Leven (Bass) and Mi Michaeli (Keyboards). Just imagine if Joey Tempest wanted a dive into a ditty as well - now there's a thought.

10/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Ok, so it came out 2 years in the USA but now we've finally heard them here in the UK and boy, do these girls have b*ll*cks.

Stickin' it to ya from Detroit City that gave birth to the MC5, Iggy Pop and The Stooges and Alice Cooper, Broadzilla are Girlschool for the new millennium. They even play around with a bit of Slayer in the outro of the opener 'Ecstasy'. They don't take a liking to slimy guys either according to kick it where it hurts feel of 'Y did U have 2B Psycho' that always seem to be at their gigs.

The title track 'Lady Luck' (that reminds me of Warlock) and their powerful take of The Supreme's 'Love Child' are real impressive, in fact the whole god-damn album is. You won't be able to take these broads of the CD player.

9/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Anticipation is a very unhealthy habit. You see a considerable level of hype over a new release as indication that the disc in concern is worth hearing. And when you put it in the deck and press play. oh, dearie me. Boot 50 look to be guilty. I had high expectations for something remotely innovative from this new act, only to be greeted by three tired treks through mediocre pop punk that quite to some degree justifies this EP's rather fittingly selected moniker, because ROCK stars, this falls somewhat short of making them. 'Cops' isn't a particularly bad number but the opening guitar line heralded what I thought would be a better tune.

Disappointing.

4/10

By Dave Attrill

Amongst the very first batch of discs I reviewed for this site was the debut by US melodic metalcore hotshots Boysetsfire. Two years along the line and after hearing very little of them in the latter half of that period, the Californian five-piece give us a hefty poke in the ribs to remind us their career hasn't lasted that short. As some previous visitors to this site might have already taken on board, yours truly and nu metal don't quite always go together as well as a dog and a bone, but I'm happy to say - though I already know - that there is practically sod-all Slipknotular about BSF's brand of ballsy vocal-friendly punk metal. I would be fair in stating that although it wears a total contemporary rock tag, the band have stuck to just getting on with their own thing and let the vibes speak for themselves rather than just jump out into the road to wave down the approaching bandwagon.

As before there are the obligatory growly bits on the vocal channel of most tracks but the cheery and catch pop-aimed range of frontman, Nathan Gray takes songs like 'Last Year's Nest', 'Full Colour Guilt', 'Release The Dogs', 'Foundations 2 Burn', and 'High Wire Escape Artist' to the top of the mountain, supported all the way once again by messrs Istvan and Laitshaw's basic but ballistic guitar lines. Another strong offering, 'Tommorrow Come Today' contains songs which should double their live shows in strength as well as length. oh, and by the way, how close to Sick Of It All's 'Step Down' does that intro off 'Management Vs Labor' sound to you? (tut, tut, tut).

If you're quick enough to snap one up, they've been very kind as to also have put a free DVD into the limited gatefold copies. This contains a blistering 40-minute live set (excusing my earlier judgment about doubling length) which though containing only about three or four tunes off this latest long-player amongst the many from their previous belter, is worth catching as it shows, aside from their live musical prowess, their political motivations and morals beyond their songs which Gray shares with the crowd on stage, between tunes and, accompanied by his bandmates, with us, song by song, which is a lot more interesting to even younger fans no than just a torrent of effing and blinding not unknown of most metal and hard rock bands on the planet.

There's an entertaining little slab of behind-scenes material too including a visit to the shared house that they live and rehearse in and a good goggle at the rather decent equipment which aids them one way or another through every day of their musical life.

Altogether, an interesting and need I say essential package, delivered surprisingly early in this excellent young band's two album-old career.

9.5 - for both album and DVD

By Dave Attrill

Exploring the wild and not always wonderful world of nu-metal for the umpteenth time in the seemingly bottomless latest stack of promo discs, I cross another ubiquitous name from the scene - Breed 77.

Sparing any sad and unfunny jokes about my birth year mentioned in band's moniker, and getting straight to the point this Spanish outfit have opted to dig up the roots of alt metal, their spade being made from early Pearl Jam wood for the handle, but with a heavier, darker metal bit on the business end.

The three tracks did not support my quest of discovery to a great extent but enough's here to show me the path that this band's footprints have been left on. '77 are a pretty rare but potentially fighting breed, indeed.

7/10

By Dave Attrill

Absolutely zilch to do with any John Travolta blockbuster of same name -on the agenda today is an impressive piece of power metal from this Italian fivesome, carrying a familiar name in their carriage. Guitarist Nick Savio already has his work beknownst to us by way of his currently Frontiers-signed acts, White Skull and the already Metalliville-approved Vicious Mary.

A man of varied talents it seems, Savio's native land has had a healthy melodic metal scene developing for some time now, and while this doesn't quite rattle the cage of Swedish genre gurus Last Tribe, you should still lend an open ear, all the same. The melodies are pretty trademark European matter but the thrash and Prog riffing interlacing the tunes is pure fruit of Savio's capability as a composer as well as a player.

A solid enough offering to warn Robin Hood that if he fancies a few shots at this particular target, he might not get his arrows back quite in one piece.

7.5/10

By Dave Attrill

When Vinny Burns left Brit melodic rock megadogs Ten at the back end of '01, the split, though totally amicable did not go down quite a million quid with their assembled followers. So-o, it appears Mr B has some debts to pay to rock n' roll society on these grounds. Meeting back up with his ol' mucker Sam Blue from pop legends Ultravox, whom Vinny played with during their twilight period, they wallowed in past times that partially accounts for the styles utilized on this resulting offering. Not to mention probably giving him a spin through current day Brit labelmates like Lost Weekend, Bailey's Comet and Pulse of which this album smells very sweetly.

The good news for the doubting ~Ten-ites gathered in their numbers is that opening track 'Cool Me Down' is effectively the best of the slower-tempo numbers off the 'Spellbound' and 'Babylon' CDs - obviously Vin looking back at his old pals with a smile one last time as he shuts the gate. From then on, the road lies ahead though down a few already trodden as the previous comparisons describe plus hints of Rainbow and Magnum at places. 'Deadly Sin', 'Lover's Game', 'She Wrote', 'Tomorrow Never Comes', 'Hung Out to Dry' and 'Where Are You Now' plus sax-led belter 'Don't Want To Know' dominate the dynamics covered by Vinny and Sam to prosperous effect and the resulting 51 minutes of power surging through my audio system defines another winning combination.

The Vinster may have to be a bit more patient with his followers on this one as it has almost sweet sod-all to do with the symphonic hard rock that has kept his erstwhile act in business over the last 7-8 years. For the open-minded, the only real complaint I can register is that it did not reach me before the Gods 2003 gig. Sterling performance from Vinny Burns once more with a superb lush 80's touch to a lot of the numbers that clearly exhibits Blue's influences as well and before I forget to mention it, another talented voice deserving more notice.. and I hope this album gives him some.

8/10

By Dave Attrill

dattrill39@hotmail.com

Blindman are a gutsy stoner outfit - what more can I say and sound like a lot of other bands on the scene like Solace, Solorize, Monster Magnet and Atomic Bitchwax etc.. the list goes on. What makes them different though is the vocal style which is like James Hetfield meets Layne Stayley.

It's good stuff especially the negative and well riffing 'The edge of the world'; the quiet instrumental 'Calm pond in the moonlight'; the Metallican meets Black Sabbath dirging 'Would you give up' and the mammoth epic 'Human Pawn'

Stoner fans will lap this up.

7/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Once a typical party hair band but their new release sees 'em stride into different directions, leaving a lot of the Ozone Killing spray at home.

There's blunter and brutaller cuts here like 'Pain' and 'Freaktown' but Britny Fox still keeps all those high shrill vocal harmonies in place - their trademark Joe Elliott meets Tom Keifer meets Lemmy squawks.

It's not all brash sounds though as they've gone a bit Journey on 'LA'; wonderfully acoustic on 'Is it real?'; brought the blues solos back on 'Coup D'etat'; given us a gorgeous balled like 'Lonely' and perfected an incredible epic with 'Sri Lanka' that's kinda like Extreme meets Led Zeppelin and clocks in at 8 ½ minutes.

Wanna see these guys in the UK.

10/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Solo project turned band 'Before the Dawn' conjure up a mind-blowing 40-odd minutes of dark, gothic doomology that's extremely more-ish. They are gonna be the support act for Medication (that features 'Whitfield Crane' of 'Life of Agony/Ugly Kid Joe' fame) in Europe, Scandinavia and the UK in 2003 (or were depending when you read this)

They've been together since 2000 and this album features impressionable cuts like the pacey crystal vocalled 'Seraphim'; the sombre 'Father and Son' with the Type O Negative sounding rhythm section; the Buffy the Vampire Slayerish 'Human, Hatred' or the sinister closer, '4.16am'.

They will be appreciated highly by fans of Type O Negative, early Anathema and In the Woods.

Pursue 'em.

7/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

BLACKBIRD - Last Of the Rockstars (EP)

(Self-Released - 2003)

Another band it seems impossible to fit into a single channel of genre but then so many bl**din' bands are like that, aren't they. Blackbird's brand of alternative-bridged lightweight mainstream rock n' roll is pretty much a digestible product. Drawing influences from either side of the eighties but without touching that most fashion-loathed of decades itself, they combine elements of young pop-punk outfits of this day with melodies of the type you'd once hear every time you put on a Slade or T-Rex record (unless you still do).

Another aspiring group of lads deserving high fortunes in the future and at the moment unsigned, getting these five pleasant little tunes about should cement them a contract before the end of the year.

8/10

By Dave Attrill

Blackbird - The Last of the Rock Stars
(Self-Released - 2003)

Looking like a glam band but sounding more like an impressive British-tinged Indie pack - you'd never guess they came from Hollywood.

It's simplistic lyrically and catchy in the musical department and they grow on you with repeated listens like the opening 'Unstoppable' with its pumping drums and scratchings up the fretboard.

The UK students will nest well into Blackbird if they get to hear 'em over here'. The song 'Never Enough' may do well as a single if released.

6.5/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Is it really a year since 1919:Eternal was released - surely not. It can only be a fair few months when this latest BLS'er lands on the doormat. Overall it's an OK album but it doesn't have as much appeal as its predecessor and those Sabbathy riffs are getting completely tedious and regurgitated - how many urrps and chugs can you take before it gets boring - in this case, not many.

Thank god for 'Stillborn' a number that definitely raises the interest level a few rungs with its spacey robotic riff and it's killer chorus that features guest-vocals from his boss 'Ozzy Osbourne'. The title-track itself 'The Blessed Hellride' is another gem which sees Zakk in acoustic mode with a bluesy Alice In Chains vibe and has a brilliant line in,

'Oh you can never get too low when you're so high'

Why are Zakk's ballads far more captivating than his supercharged blisterers as I fully recommend 'Blackened Water' and the piano-led closer 'Dead Meadow'. Now this is musical beauty.

6.5/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

A classic band from the days of the 'New Wave of British Heavy Metal'. If you aint heard of 'em then you may have heard the song itself 'Blitzkrieg' that was covered by Metallica on the 'Garage Re-Revisited' E.P.

The album itself should have been recorded in '81 but the band broke up due to financial difficulty. In 1985 they re-grouped and recorded mighty metal riffages like 'Blitzkrieg'; and 'Inferno'. It sounds like it was released in the early 80's because of the echoey mushy sound but the songs make up for it such as the excellent 'Take a look around'. Imagine a Thin Lizzyish band built up with the aggressive power of Judas Priest and at times the gutsiness of early 'n' raw Def Leppard - that's the band 'Blitzkrieg'.

Coming with bonus unreleased cuts, the original live cassette as well as the single 'Inferno/Blitzkrieg' it's well worth the purchase.

An excellent 2-CD set from a band that should have been massive.

8.5/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

There are few things less trouser browningly embarrassing for a critic than approaching what is initially though to be a newly-formed hard rock act, and commencing with the evaluation of what one assumes is their debut album, only to find that they've been around on the scene for more years than I've been into it. Yours truly realized, thankfully JUST before putting pen to paper I was about to make this certifiable balls-up with US veterans Biloxi. Well, just to ease of any oncoming resentment from fans, I think I may have just become one myself.

'Out On The Streets' is typical West Coast melodic hard rock that races along at tempo with the roof down and is there to be enjoyed for what it is, and 'Listen' continues partially as the like but slows it to a Survivor-ish sort of pace and style. 'Lay' and 'Ocean' share a sound that sits spread-eagled between Burning Rain and 'Pull' - era Winger, the former vibe particularly aided by Clyde Holly's vocal range. 'Far From Home' is a mix of the previous two tracks but with a distinguishable progressive injection and 'Have You Seen The Rain comes equipped with a chorus harmony of the sort, Mitch Malloy and Hardline have vended automatically on more than one or two occasions past.

'Someone' is very much the same sort of thing as 'O.O.T.S' but a vague Euro-Metal overtone does exist throughout. 'Do Ya' is probably amongst the best tunes with a chorus that very few have dared to even think about, this side of 1979. 'Vampire' is the one I struggled the most to enjoy - an acceptable enough song but the big bang never came at the end of its fuse. 'Digging Up Bones' is not the easiest one to get excited about either, a laid-back sort of Extreme-styled number in ways that accounts for diversity but not a terrific amount else. 'Starting Over' ends the album back on the rails with some very Canadian-sounding melody, in fact more to the point, very Von Groove- sounding which leaves oneself far from disappointed with this record. Another group I'd wished I'd discovered about ten years earlier than I did, but at least I know them now, that's what counts. Now, about those other albums, they've done….

9/10

By Dave Attrill

After two years from the silent screams of hard core death metal fans, Bloodbath hit the streets with another terrifying epidemic called 'Resurrection through carnage', just when you thought death metal had faded like the spilt blood on the streets and the unearthly T-shirts that reeked of death, it appears once again through the form of Mikael Akerfeldt (Opeth), Andres Nystrom and Jonas Renske (Katatonia) and Dan Swano (Edge Of Sanity).

Bloodbath enter our souls with a ten-track plague that will sweep the continents faster than the explosion of a nuclear bomb, in fact a nuclear bomb has nothing on the overall outcome of what Bloodbath will leave. From the start of 'Ways to the grave' through to the last track 'Cry my name' Bloodbath leave a curse of sickness and carnage firmly imprinted in your mind with an overall feeling of it's a fine day to die.

7/10

By Tony Watson

Never before have I reviewed an album that does not include guitar amongst the instruments involved in its recording, but with a keyboardsman of the phenomenal talents of Tomas Bodin, best known for his day role in Swedish prog rock giants The Flower Kings, you can only respect what the bloke does.

I should like to see how this guy should fare in a duet with Dream Theater's Jordan Rudess and then even Purple's Jon Lord should like a bit of such action, I'd reckon. Bodin leaves practically no single stone unturned as he runs the roster of styles several times over, in mixed arrangements as to purge some of the predictability of the material, a good move when you've got tunes lasting up to almost quarter-of-an-hourlong to wade through. Some do wear themselves a little thin after a while, as if the direction signs require the odd repeat glance but Tomas tries every road he drive past and his vehicle seldom splutters in exhaustion.

I actually discovered the true depth of Tomas Bodin's music when I studied the accompanying promo papers which explain amongst things, how the songs and the emotions implied by each piece were inspired by events of his personal life during the period of the disc's construction and by the variety of different people cultures surrounding the area he currently lives in. The result is matched by his wide range of rhythms, styles and influences packed into one single disc of instrumental wizardry which comes as proof of the pudding as to what prog musicians get up to when left alone with their own toys. Tomas Bodin is genuine testimony to the theory that, with talent and the inspiration, a rock album without guitars (or vocals) still goes the distance.

9/10

By Dave Attrill

Stupid name but a memorable one especially with the kids. In fact, it's a dead set that you'll see at least one lad in a Bowling for Soup Top in the middle of a mass of Slipknot, Sum 41, Offspring and Green Day fans.

Their material if you didn't know already is totally unsophisticated rah-rah punk-pop/rock that's extremely commercial and real effective on the dance floor.

Much of the stuff on the same sounds like you've got the repeat button on the same song - so it's all very much similar to the single, 'Girl all the bad guys want' which after 3 or 4 songs gets very boring indeed - Fast chug-chug guitar rhythm riffage that's too long in the tooth so thank god for the appearance of the ballad 'Where to begin' another the new-wavish 'Runnin' from your dad' and the secret untitled song that is number 28 on the cd which for the mo' I'll refer to as 'Halfway round the world' - another nice acoustic ditty.

So the schoolies dig 'em but they need far more variety to succeed with a more mature varied aged audience.

5.5/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

This six track EP contains 4 new songs plus two live tracks recorded live in July at Club Krome in South Amboy NJ.

The Delaware band have released the first of the new tracks for over two years, with their original style of punk rock and metal. From the furious beginning of 'Release the dogs' to 'Bathory's sainthood' and 'Curtain call', Boysetsfire really live up to their name, as these boys do set fires with in the society you live.

With their originality I can only say that 'I look forward to hearing the new studio album'.

8/10

By Tony Watson

We've waited a good year or two for this release to finally hit the UK and now it's here and well worth the wait.

An impeccable performance where Seb's on top form with a backing band of friends in front of an ecstatic crowd in Tokyo. They present a bunch of Skid Row classics including '18 and Life' that has a nice extended intro, 'Riot Act', 'Monkey Business' and the emotional 'I remember you' as well as the ultimate climax, 'Youth Gone Wild'. There's even the newer number from 'The Last Hard Men' called 'The Most Powerful man in the world' which is good to hear in with the oldies.

Seb's not copped out though he's even included 4 brand new spankers as well which see him touch on Nu-metal with 'Done Bleeding' or the ballad 'Superjerk, Superstar, Superteen' (that falls into the realms of Alice In Chains.

Ignore any bad reviews that slag off his past songs and refer to him as being stuck in the 80's- get it bought - it's a crackin' release. If you get the chance, go and see him on Broadway as he's currently playing the lead role in Jesus Christ Superstar - who'd have thought it - a Rock 'n' Roll bad boy becomes the 'Son of God' - talk about a big contrast.

9/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Not that long ago did I review this chap's last offering, 'The Oracle' so it's quite easy to pick up where I left off really, isn't it. Where I did leave off was a decent enough if not absolutely great melodic rock album that had plenty of punchin' moments but some shakily average ones too. He also decided to put it out as a full band called 'Ring Of Fire' named after his 2000 solo release, but come on folks, you think there's that much difference given he's very much the main geezer in either case.

The musicianship meanwhile stays glued to its high standards as always - in fact Mr Boals seems to have stocked up on the herbal tea supplies in recent months - and this outing sees the songwriting take a further shove uphill too. Now come on, it wasn't that bad on the last one but add the Dream Theater vibes that seem to be channelling endlessly through to me on this disc, especially in Boals's magnificently fresher sounding voice, you see where the room for improvement has taken some occupying.

Tunes like 'World On Fire', 'Lady Babylon', 'Between Two Mirrors', 'Up To You' and 'Hold On' give Mark the battleground to demonstrate his talent's and I'm really wondering now as why this bloke's singing's been slated by quite I few with whom I've spoken. Although I have no sleeve notes or accompanying paperwork with this release, I can only assume that he has used musicians of considerable calibre - is that one Mr Vitalij Kuprij you've got on the keyboards again, old boy? 'Edge….' is a polished album that gives Mark Boals his licence to distribute in this market and should quell the doubts of some within one listen.

Good one M.B., keep 'em coming.

8.5/10

By Dave Attrill

Up and coming 100% rock band the way it should be who lean into the stoner sound.

I was put onto them from a fan of the zine who wanted me to review the album and interview the band. Brash 'n' ballsy they are too and getting' a fair bit of press - no wonder either. They aren't too dissimilar to Zakk ' 'Black Label Society' kickin' out songs like 'Broken Soul', 'Sad Wings' and 'Judgement Day' which all have that deep metal spark.

Best track has got to be the slide guitar number 'Missing You' that adds extra character to what would otherwise be a straight-up stoner affair.

These could be the next big thing after Nickleback, POD and Puddle of Mudd.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Well, the signs are a little better for Aussies The Bezerker from first listen but marginally so. The vocal style is as you'd guess but switches more often than I can keep track of between high and deep pitched grumblings, and the instrument gear-sticks are moved about a bit more this time as well. The songs are shorter which makes for a better experience as it means frequent though brief moments for regaining of breath - and eardrums - before the first groove of the next number meets the lens.

So, summed up, it goes a little further in my favour than the other two aforementioned albums of matching type, I've reviewed this evening. Still though, nothing I'd quite go berserk over, and I still say I've heard plenty other better bands from this scene.

Check 'em out live though - a very recommended racket.

6/10

By Dave Attrill

Heard the name of the band - but never actually heard the band - but when I did I was very impressed. I expected yet another Green Day but instead I got a tuneful single that is virtually melodic rock in fact one of the guys is even wearing a Loverboy t-shirt in the inside photo.

It's punky but it's US style that flows into Enuff Znuff territory with Beatle-felt harmonies and instrumentally extremely catchy. Bowling For Soup have been around since '94 and were the first band to take out out the now well-known punk brats, Sum 41.

The song has humour wriiten all over it about the kid who wants the girl who likes 'Rap Metal', 'Tough Guys' and 'Drives Transams' whereas this kid rides a moped and can't even grow a moustache. Pure Realism - why do we place people on pedestals when it should be the other way round at times.

10/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Zakk Wylde's 'Black Label Society' - Stronger Than Death
(Spitfire Records - 2000)

Black Label's second album sees the band go through the Sabbath/Ozzy territory in 10 glorious moments. Starting with the stunning 'All For You' you are thrown in for a bumpy hard ride and bassed out and with both fast 'n' slow stoner rock with the heavy hard 'n' gruesome 'Phoney Smiles and Fake Hello's'. You just can't help singing along to the chorus with its tell-it-how-it-is lyric 'Go F*ck yourself, for all I f*ckin' care' - I smile when I heard Mr. Wylde come out with the line anyway.

It isn't all bombastic rock either because 'Rust' is a pretty neat ballad that's very Alice in Chains. I can't recommend the epic, piano led 'Just Killing Time' high enough either, (the other ballad on the album - that could be direct competition for artists like Elton John or Paul McCartney). Zakk has the versatile knack of pulling of various kinds of moods with his throaty, driving voice - be it p*ssed of or the feelings of love without sounding one bit wimpy.

He's vastly under-rated as a songwriter by the mainstream and is forever placed under the wing of Ozzy Osbourne. It's about time that many woke up to how talented this guy is in his own right - I'd like to see what'd happen if he broke away from the Sabbath/Ozzy mould and aimed at the Contemporary Adult Market - maybe it could take place a few years from now.

Great album that leads an indication of where Black Label Society were heading to next.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Brave were formed out of the band 'Arise from Thorns' who started in '97 by Guitarist, Scott Loose and Drummer, Trvor Schrotz. When Scott's sister, Michelle joined for vocal purposes they eventually became known as 'Brave'. Hailing from Virginia, Brave play progressive folky rock with well shaped and on occasions complex arrangements.

They come across a bit like 'The Corrs' going for a relaxed, mellowed-out, Marillion feel. I have to admit they are rather different to the usual thing and needless to say, incredibly melodically dramatic - a good example being the heart-warming ballad 'Falling into Bliss', coming complete with beautiful acoustic guitar playing and delightful vocals. A nice highlight is the eastern sounding 'Trapped Inside'. 'Dream Again' is another sticky-out number also that begins with the ticking of a clock.

An album that needs to be listened to a few times to be fully appreciated. It's a grower and not your average Rock or Metal release. It's interesting at times but does it have the X factor - I'll let you decide upon this.

6/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

I was put onto Tom Bryant by one of his colleagues who e-mailed my recently - thanks Nate. Bryant is an all-round Rocker who's masterful unique vocal qualities equally match those of two famous Rock Rogers - these being Daltrey of the Who and Chapman (the ex-vocalist of Family).

Despite the title, it was recorded before September 11th and is an album that has a lot of character and electricity as well as deep honest lyrics. Thank god somebody has had the guts to write a song called 'Pay to Play' - one of the obscene workings of the Music Industry and society in general. Here what Tom has to say about a fallen releationship in the acoustic ballad 'Last Goodbye' (coming complete with a horn section). The first song on Cd is pretty awesome - 'Man's Plight' - a stabbing coming at you mid-paced rock number that concerns how the human race is ruining the planet. In contrast, the closing opener, 'Death of a friend' is completely different and I must give a big thumbs up to the Cock-Rocker 'Bad Girls' reminding one very much of Spinal Tap.

I'd like to see this guy some time grace old blighty.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Share 'n' Bams Bubble are back with their follow-up release debut, 'How 'bout this'. Gone are the ex-Faster Pussycat members, Brent Muscat and Eric Stacy and in the band now is Tad on Bass.

It's a more together release comprising of 11 tracks that are tight nuggets of glam-edged grunge rock that kids'll love if they get the chance to hear 'em. From the punky-pop of 'Days like these' to the mellowed-out 'Dream Sick' it's a solid CD that keeps you entertained throughout with highlights such as the Stonesy 'Exile...' styled 'Idle feel of fame' that even has a Beatle touch to it or the slipper stompin' 'Artificial Schizophrenia' with deep guitar thrust and tight dirty drumwork - then consider what greets you in the new wave wave pop for the new millennium flavoured number that is 'By and By'.

Share's dry throaty vocals will do it for you - move over Courtney Love - you've now met your match and what an excellent back-up team Bam is on drums and Tad on Bass. Nearly forgot to inform you on this - Share plays all the guitar as well - if you didn't already know.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

With a lot of bands hitting the UK market from Sweden, Blackshine are one of these bands but who have that slight difference within their style of music. As with a lot of bands from around that area can we characterise them as metal? Or are they rock? Or is it goth? Or shall we call it the New Wave Of Swedish Heavy Metal (NWOSHM)? Who cares! I don't.

Blackshine have the influence of Motorhead and Venom with their raw taste and the heaviness of Kyuss and Ministry minus the samples. The CD title 'Soulless and Proud' gives you the sense of this CD being dark and gloomy and yes it is, with over 41 minutes and 11 tracks of solid raw attitude Blackshine have released a CD that cannot be played full blast on the Sabbath day while you are still suffering from a massive hangover from the Saturday nights binge, as tracks like 'Love Our Hell', 'Sacrifice', 'Light the Fuse' and 'Shadowman' would rattle the bones of the dead.

With no disrespect to Blackshine I feel that it's nothing new, if it suppose to be part of the NWOBHM then I would have expected something slightly different, something new and not a replica of what happened in the mid eighties early nineties.

7/10

By Tony Watson

From the same label as 'Creed' you wonder what to expect, well, Breaking Point are a harder version of 'Creed', but don't let this put you off. Breaking Point have probable got their breaking point into the industry with a fine CD that you won't find disappointing.

These four talented guys come across in some ways original with the way they express themselves through their music, with good hard rock and wonderful ballads, this CD has a lot of variety throughout, from the wonderful 'Coming Of Age' to the rapping vocals in 'Brother', through to the heart felt tracks of 'Angry Side' and 'Live for Today'. But saying this, I think Breaking Point have been influenced a lot by the likes of 'Creed', if you put the two bands together in one room behind a screen, know one would know who was playing, but apart from the similarities and likeness in their music, it is still a very exceptionally brilliant CD that isn't boring to the eardrums.

Like a lot of copycat bands, Breaking point will probably find it difficult to ignore this type of criticism, but if they developed themselves towards the tracks of 'Brother' and 'Angry Side' they would make one brilliant original band.

'Coming of Age' is by no way a few listens and left on the shelf CD, it is a CD that's full of excitement, which will still bring much enjoyment in years to come.

8/10

By Tony Watson

'One Of A Kind' is a track that was recorded as a possible theme song for the WWF mega-star Rob Van Dam. The enormous response to the song prompted Wind-up to release it as a single and to add it to the play list on all new pressings of the CD 'Coming Of Age'.

Breaking Point have adapted a more intense and heavier style to this single, using heavy guitars and industrial electronics to bring out a fuller sound that will get any avid fan whipping up a frenzy.

9/10

By Tony Watson

Bad Religion are one of the first ever hardcore punk bands that have influenced groups of today like Offspring and Greenday.

This five track sampler which contains extracts from 'Supersonic', 'Sorrow', 'Can't stop It', 'Broken' and 'Epiphany' has been taken off the new CD 'The Process Of Belief' that is released 21st January 02.

Bad Religion have probably, with listening to the sampler released their best material to date, through their distinctive punk sound.

8/10
(So far)

By Tony Watson

'Brother' is the exciting new single taken from the their debut 'Coming Of Age'. This track is definitely one of those wonderful hard searing metal tracks powered by enormous riffs and rapping chorus that is loved the more you hear it. 'Brother' will be a biggie throughout the clubs and still will be thoroughly enjoyed in years to come.

10/10

By Tony Watson

The media masses thought that 80's Thrash Metal was dead - well their thoughts have been smashed to eternity because 'Byfist' are proof that the vibrant electricity of it all is back (and so are they after over 9 years).

The vocal talents are that, that you'd associate with Joey Belladonna (like the whoah shouty screams on 'Eternal Damnation' - there's even have a fair old hint of King Diamond in them this).

When you listen to the musicianship bands like Anthrax, Judas Priest and Exciter come to mind straight away - good old thrashin' chugga riffs that are played properly that can suddenly slow down and shoot back up to rocket speed again witha killer guitar solo taking the limelight - like the second song says, it's a 'Meltdown'.

'Left To Die' has that shouting backing vocal made famous by Anthrax, SOD and MOD completed with more of the above. On 'Mary Celeste' you hear the sound of what seems like a crypt.

Classy interstellar vocalic thrash metal.

10/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

What a massive surprise to find Bathory land on my doorstep and still breathing, I thought that this legendary black metal band who hit the market in the mid eighties with the legendary albums like 'Bathory', 'The Return', 'Under the Sign' and 'Blood Fire Death' had died and gone into the depths of hell. I was also surprised to find out that Bathory have a back catalogue of twelve CD's, which are available through Black Mark Records.

This unlucky for some thirteenth CD with thirteen tracks is probable with no question of doubt one of the finest CD's (that I have heard) from Bathory. The Nordic intro to 'Lake of Fire' sends me back to the days of 'Blood Fire Death' with 'Odens Ride Over Nordland / A Fine Day To Die', which give you that feeling of you know what is coming next, and yes, you would be right.

Bathory have lived up to their name of being evil and sounding evil, the norlandic ambience and the pounding drums that rattle the heavens, have you cringing in a corner as every track takes it's toll on your life. From the start of 'Lake of Fire' to the evil sound of 'Destroyer of Worlds', through the melodic intro of 'Ode' to 'Liberty and Justice' and the last track 'Day of Wrath', Bathory have once again proved why they are still going strong.

The only thing that you will probably notice, is that the vocal content on this CD are really clear, you can hear every word, it's not the usual screaming low vocals you can get with a lot of death/thrash metal bands, but with saying this, Bathory used to be one of these bands! This vocal content did put me off at first but after more than a good few listens, I wouldn't want to here this CD any other way. Brilliant!!!

Well done Quorthorn.

9/10

By Tony Watson

Still around are they? Or rather him, assuming that it is still Quorthon's one-man musical army making what I'd call the best death metal album I've heard of all 2001. The legendary act has managed to evolve its sound through nearly twenty years whilst still maintaining faith of followers old and new. The guy has some difficulty in the make your mind up department as regarding vocal styles with everything angry-and-nice and in between being used in one song or the other.

The CD is practically a chequered affair, switch non-stop between high-speed hate-metal and smooth, mid-paced gothic harmonies, beginning with a track of the latter kind. A third style invites itself in on a reasonable helping of occasions which borders on the contemporary with industrial-influenced vocals. Quorthon's not forgotten how to pen some blistering guitar work either, and even if it is pretty much old school intensity, it sits comfortably alongside newer acts of the genre such as Nile. Forty-something years and now thirteen albums old, he shows no signs of giving up with an ever-likely revival for metal's fortunes hiding round the corner. A recommended return for one of Death Metal's finest.

9/10

By Dave Attrill

Her new album 'The Old Hyde' features many guest appearances including drummers Mick Fleetwood (Fleetwood Mac) and son of John, Jason Bonham plus Guitarist, Robbie McIntosh (from Paul McCartney's band).

There is a mass of tributes present on 'The Old Hyde' such as one to Peter Green and Mick Fleetwood in the form of the late 60's blues classic, 'Need your love so bad' which Deborah so brilliantly delivers. 'Black Coffee' is another notable tribute, this time for the Humble Pie/Small Faces front-man 'Steve Marriott' who Deborah thought was a seven foot black guy - with a remarkable voice like that - she hasn't done a bad job either.

With regard to her own material - you can't go wrong chilling on out to 'The Devil in New Orleans' - a classy dirty blues rocker (a la Rolling Stones at their finest) with a corkin' harmonica solo from John Dominic.

Worth a mention also is the contemporary folk-blues thang called 'Open up your heart' with terrific back-up vocals during the chorus and delightful mandolin playing throughout from Julian Littman. Then there's the acoustic almost Zeppelinesque number entitled 'Ten Steps' about the love of her late brother, Michael.

You're completely spoilt with album which also includes a bonus 3-track CD, with the main highlight being a duet between Deborah and Jason on live radio of the Led Zeppelin classic 'The Battle of Evermore'. This is an incredibly emotional happening especially when there's a giant poster of Robert Plant looking down on them. There also happens to be a corking cover of Stevie Wonder's 'Superstitious' that Deborah refers to as 'Michael's moment of fame (who plays percussion on the number). The
conclusive track is a mouth-wateringly gorgeous rendition of Fleetwood Mac's 'Songbird'.

Boy, the Bonham's really are a talented bunch - is there any end to what this family is capable of producing.

A fantastic 2-CD set.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Typical American new age punk band, if you are familiar with 'The Offspring', 'Green day' and 'Blink 182' then you have heard 'The Bouncingsouls'. When you have heard the hundredth American new age punk band then you start to get a little bit bored with it all, can't the Americans come out with something slightly different and not an exact copy of what's already out there on the streets.

Thirteen tracks and thirty-four minutes of the same old sh*t with the exception of a couple of songs that grew on me like 'That Song', 'Lifetime', 'Manthem' and 'Late bloomer'.

If it weren't for the reason of 'I've heard it all before' I probably would have enjoyed it a lot more. Although I haven't thoroughly enjoyed it doesn't mean that the CD is full of sh*t, it's the sort of stuff that's doing the rounds at the moment so all the young kids and students will love it.

5/10
for being the same old sh*t

By Tony Watson

From the same label as 'Creed' you wonder what to expect, well, Breaking Point are a harder version of 'Creed', but don't let this put you off. Breaking Point have probable got their breaking point into the industry with a fine CD that you won't find disappointing.

These four talented guys come across in some ways original with the way they express themselves through their music, with good hard rock and wonderful ballads, this CD has a lot of variety throughout, from the wonderful 'Coming Of Age' to the rapping vocals in 'Brother', through to the heart felt tracks of 'Angry Side' and 'Live for Today'. But saying this, I think Breaking Point have been influenced a lot by the likes of 'Creed', if you put the two bands together in one room behind a screen, know one would know who was playing, but apart from the similarities and likeness in their music, it is still a very exceptionally brilliant CD that isn't boring to the eardrums.

Like a lot of copycat bands, Breaking point will probably find it difficult to ignore this type of criticism, but if they developed themselves towards the tracks of 'Brother' and 'Angry Side' they would make one brilliant original band.

'Coming of Age' is by no way a few listens and left on the shelf CD, it is a CD that's full of excitement, which will still bring much enjoyment in years to come.

8/10

By Tony Watson

Britny Fox - Long Way to Live
(Spitfire Records - 2001 - Cat no. SPIT CD 111)

A live spectacle of 14 blistering tracks from a top class cock-rock hair band 'Britny Fox'. Having never heard Tommy Paris as the bands lead vocalist before, I must say I'm really impressed and getting hold of a copy of the studio album 'Bite down hard' is a dead set.

Throughout this gig, the four guys (Tommy Paris - Lead Guitar/Vocals; Billy Childs - Bass/Vocals; Johnny Dee - Drums/Vocals and Michael Kelly Smith -Lead Guitar,Vocals) bust their balls on some of the best live efforts I've had the joy to hear - take the classics 'Long way to love' which comes early on in the set (track number 2 in fact) and later on 'Girlschool' (with it's Twisted Sister 'Shoot 'em down' riff) from the 'Fox's self titled debut plus the magnificent 'lit ciggy lighters in the air' type ballad called 'Dream On' (which not to be confused with the Aerosmith song of the same name) from the 'Boys in Heat' album.

The bulk of the songs come from the 'Bite down hard' album like the kick-ass 'Close to your love' which comes complete with a momentous sing-a-long chorus or the dirty 'Shot from my gun' that gives rock legends AC/DC and Cinderella a run for their money.

Scream 'F*ck Yeah' on cue for Tommy Paris and become part of the action.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Around 10 years on, many friends and fellow admirers have joined hands in this incredible tribute (brought together by famed Rock Music Journalist, Nicky Baldrian and Lasse at Lion Music).

'Warmth in the Wilderness' is where you'll discover 31 tracks including overs like 'A little ain't enough', performed by Stormwind; 'A jam for Jason' featuring Vinnie Moore, Jeff Watson, Steve Morse, Chris Poland, Jeff Kollman as 'The Wicked Guitar Quartet'.

There are contributions from artists like Marty Friedman (Black Stallion Jam) who says,

'I admired Jason's absolutely flawless technique, and he seemed to like my warped sense of melody'

This tribute really is a fine masterpiece and all the artists concerned have place an immense amount of passion into their performances. The list of artists is literally outstanding especially when you consider that it includes big names like James Kottak (Scorpions), Alex Masi, Ron Keel (Keel), Ted Poley (Melodica (+ ex-Danger Danger)) and Josephine from Phantom Blue, James Byrd and Rolf Munkes. There are staggering performances from artists like 'Hit the ground runnin' (with their Jazzy 'Jason Street' complete with sampled vinyl crackles).

The 2-CD set is a collection that will delight lovers of class rock
everywhere. After purchasing this, purchasing all the Jason Becker related albums if you don't have them already - then be sure to check out albums by all of the guests involved.

I really mean it from the heart when I say that this is one of the best tribute albums I have ever heard.

We all love ya Jason!!!

10/10

by Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Like most people, I've heard their first album, 'Shake Your Money Maker' and love the songs 'Hard To Handle'; 'Twice As Hard'; 'Jealous Again' and 'She Talks To Angels' and expect every album after that to have wonderful songs like these that you hear when clubbing.

So where have all the other wonderful songs gone? They are on this new CD entitled 'Lions' which isn't commercial at all like the previous platter 'By Your Side' but instead sees the band express themselves through tracks like 'Midnight From The Inside Out'; 'Lickin'; 'No Use Lying'; 'Losing My Mind'; 'Greasy Grass River'; 'Cosmic Friend' and 'Lay It All On Me'.

This 13 track CD has you feeling full of life, then brings you back down to earth feeling tearful - because you know how hard life can be. 'Lions' is worth purchasing by anyone with an open mind - there's over 55 minutes of pure bliss. If Hendrix were alive today - he'd more than probably be releasing a collection of tracks like this!!!

9/10

By Tony Watson

This band very much falls into the nu-metal category but even have their moments of leaning vaguely towards the melodic rock field. Think along the lines of Antiproduct a tad, you'll soon get the picture - mainly Offspring influenced American Punk Metal but allowing for a few general power-pop rock grooves and smatterings of that endlessly vital ingredient…. Attitude.

We also get the odd one or two laughable song-titles along the way, the best of which being 'As I watch The Sun F*** The Ocean'. I don't know who I can recommend this album to, most people I suppose, but especially if you are into punk, hardcore or power-pop. A lot of this album's material stands slap bang in the middle of that triangle. So put the Cd in the player, turn up the vol' and enjoy, is the best suggestion I can really make.

8/10

By Dave Attrill

I ain't reviewed an HC album in a long time. So long in fact it was on my ill-fated first attempt at Metalliville way back in 1997, the CD in discussion being Strife's 'In This Defiance'. I am initially prompted to assume I have stumbled across more of the same when this disc kicks into action. However, I'm made to go red in the face again when I find it isn't all it first seems, and we have one of the best melodic punk metal albums EVER on our hands here, ladies 'n' gentlemen. It is in a nutshell akin to old school HC at its b*llock pulverisin' best, coupled with the sort of tuneful aggression that first got Offspring some eyes - I mean ears - batted at.

As with the 'Boy Hits Car' CD, there are quite a few chortleworthy monickers tagged onto some of the tracks, but it's the MUSIC we're in this room for. Huge hooks and riffs go without saying and for once (in this rock genre) it lasts a decent duration, at over fifty minutes in length. It's not quite as easy to get me to like this quickly as it was once with Hard Rock and AOR being my main field nowadays but once I heard what this lot sounded like it was even less easier NOT to get quickly into this album. Hopefully it is hard for you to ignore as well.

9/10

By Dave Attrill

On offer here is great contemporary rock (the track 'Don't), attitude filled blues-rock ('I'm doing fine without you' and 'Godess of Rock 'n' Roll'), some ballsy sounding soft rock ('I surrender' - and before you ask it is not a cover of the Rainbow favourite) and a bit of country rock as well (After the Storm). There really is something for everyone here - well apart from the thrashers and punks!!

It's released on 24th September - Place your order with a mail order
melodic rock CD Company now.

7/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Jack Bruce - the legendary bassist of Cream will be coming your way soon and you're more than guaranteed to hear tracks from this band spanking new album, 'Shadows in the Air' (in fact the U.K. dates appear in the Artist/Tour info section of the website).

The album 'Shadows in the Air' sees Jack rubbing shoulders again with cream of the crop (scuse the pun) guitar-god Eric Clapton who guests on laid back percussion heavy re-workings of 'Sunshine Of Your Love' and 'White Room', which need no introduction. Other guests include the New Orleans Piano playing giant talents of Dr. John who adds his ebony and ivory touch to the mellowed out 'This Anger's a Liar' and the bluesy 'Windowless Rooms'. Living Colour guitarist, Vernon Reid is featured also who throws in some nice touches during the Jazzyish 'Mr. Fresh'

Elsewhere Mr. B. embarks on some spectacular tight-but-loose arrangements found in the numbers 'Dark Heart' (featuring Blues-Rock Extraordinaire, Gary Moore) who you may remember was part of the line-up BBM (alongside Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker) who released the stunning 'Around the next dream' album in 1994. Check out the Jazz-Rock fusion of 'Dancing on Air' with its almost weightless vocal duties during the chorus.

Overall, 'Shadows in the Air' is a very enlightening album where you get to hear Jack Bruce like you've never heard him before.

8/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

Stan Bush is the man who brought us the title-theme tune for the film 'Transformers - The Movie- but he's done a lot more besides that includes releasing numerous albums as a solo artist, like his self-titled debut in 1983 and with the band 'Barrage' - a good example being 1987's 'Stan Bush and Barrage' which magazines like Kerrang and Metal Hammer rated highly. He's even toured with supporting 'Survivor' and written for bands like Quiot Riot and House of Lords. Now he's back with his brand new solo album 'Language of the Heart'.

The album has a stellar cast of muso's that include Rod Stewart's guitarist, Don Kirkpatrick (who's also worked with Don Henley and John Waite) and Boston's 'Tommy Thunderbuck' on backing vocals. This release is pure AOR pleasure and fine examples are 'A little thing' and 'What I've Got Is Real. Stan even delves into the blues with 'Don't let them down' and Gospel-flavoured styled backing singing on 'Love Someone' that throws in a brightly brilliant vocal bridge before the guitar solo kicks in.

'Don't tell me' is very fresh, sweet moderate tempo number with great funky wah-wah guitar playing and you just can't help nodding the old head to it. 'Lonely won't leave me alone' is very impressive with its John 'Cougar' Mellencamp country vibe - man, that harmonica hits you straight away - it really is the canine's testicles!! I guess this is what Bad Company's 'Shooting Star' would be like if it ever went American Country-Folk.

It's a good AOR album, which is bound to do well all over Europe.

7/10

By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS