Wow, this CRY HOLY is a fantastic Christian AOR band from Seattle, Washington! I always thought there weren't any AOR bands to come out of that part of The States, but this CRY HOLY is the living proof that AOR is also made in that part of the US. The band sent me a CDR with 10 of their own songs and I can easily say that this is a very sensational band, because most of the songs just sound perfect. The band consists of the very good vocalist Randy Loran, James Henry (guitars), Mike Maxwell (drums), Scott Loran (guitars), Erik Rouston (bass) and Gary Reems (keys).

Musically they play classic 80s AOR and are not that far away from bands like FAITH NATION, DOXA, FAIR EXCHANGE, JOURNEY and HIT THE GROUND RUNNIN'. This band is a definite winner for anyone into keyboard driven hookladen 80s AOR with the catchy choruses and wonderful harmonies! Also the production and sound quality is pretty good, so nothing stands in my way to call this the new sensation in the AOR scene. But the band is not really new, because they are already performing for ten years and this '10 from 2' is a compilation of the band's two albums.

Anyway, the first song is called "I wanna be free" and rightaway you can hear that you're listening to something really good. This opening tune is a great classic 80s AOR song that sounds like a mix between SURVIVOR, JOURNEY, FAITH NATION and HTGR. In the same style is the following track "Masquerade ball", only this song is even better. Actually "Masquerade ball" is a killer AOR tune, because everything a classy 80s AOR tune needs to contain is included here, such as the keys, harmonies, chorus and hooklines, it's just all there! Things slow down during "History", this is a nice soft acoustic ballad, but nothing special here.

The calmer AOR/Poprocker "He lives in you" is up next, a song with some great harmonies reminding me of SAVANNAH! Some more hookladen AOR can be heard on "Turn it around", a good song a la FAIR EXCHANGE. Then things slow down again on the next track "Every corner of my heart", a soft piano-ballad that ALLIES or BOB CARLISLE could've done. The last 4 songs are all classy 80s AOR pieces. First off there is "Streets of Gold (It's a mission)", a great AOR tune a la MASS (only more AOR based). Following track "Life with an angel" is a lovely semi AOR ballad in the NELSON style, this song is very strong and definitely one of the winners on the whole CDR.

Up next is "Shadow of my wings" and man, this is really awsome classic 80s AOR at it's total best! A song like this should get these guys signed here in Europe, this is just brilliant pure AOR and right up there with bands like STONE SOUP, ARTICA, HTGR, JOURNEY, SAFIRE and you name it further on… Just listen to the perfect guitarsound and the two vocalists singing on this song, simply wonderful! The final track "Shine thru me" is a live-recorded tune and also sounds great. This last track is a lovely semi AOR tune. When the song nears the end, you are close to AOR HEAVEN, and are dying to hear more of this wonderful band from Seattle, but so far that's the end for me.

Very soon an interview with yet another Christian AOR sensation from The States. CRY HOLY is a total must for people who like bands such as DOXA, FAIR EXCHANGE, FAITH NATION, HIT THE GROUND RUNNIN', SEEKER, and the established AOR acts JOURNEY and SURVIVOR. For now, check out this fantastic Christian AOR band out at: Cry Holy and e-mail them at: drummerboy147@juno.com

Rating: 9/10

'Dance in the fire' is the third CD of Newman, the band formed around vocalist/guitarist/ keyboardist Steve Newman. On the new CD he got help from HEARTLAND members Chris Ousey and Steve Morris as well as bassist Dave Hopia and drummer Ron Kurzreiter. Musically we can hear again classy 80s AOR/Melodic Rock, especially the production by the two mentioned HEARTLAND leaders and mixing by Paul Dean is done very well. This all makes this 'Dance in the fire' a pleasant record to listen to.

Opener "Every moment" is one of my favourites, this tune is prime-time classic early 80s AOR/Radiorock a la PREVIEW and AIRRACE. The rest of the CD takes us back into the well-known AOR/Melodic Rock that we heard on the first two NEWMAN releases. The best songs, besides opener "Every moment", are "Dangerous" (ballsy midtempo AOR a la ATLANTIC), "Must have been an angel" (another great midtempo piece) and the classic 80s uptempo AOR rockers "Remember the night" and "Call my name". The new NEWMAN is a great record that you can easily add to your other recently bought AOR killer CDs!

Rating: 9/10

'As it comes' is HEARTLAND's seventh studio-album. The new CD is in the same lines as the last couple of HEARTLAND and THE DISTANCE albums, so basically you'll get quality AOR/Melodic Rock. The songs doesn't sound as AOR orientated as CHANGE OF HEART and with this HEARTLAND it's like you love them or you hate them. I like this band a lot and I think many other AOR fans will agree with me that the band can make some great tunes. Maybe they are playing safe again with this record, but at least you'll get a good record filled with AOR/Melodic Rock and not a bunch of poppy tunes with the occasional AOR song.

There are 12 songs on the album and not one of them is weak or dissapointing. My favourite songs are "Eyes open wide" (classy 80s uptempo AOR), "She blows me away" (semi AOR ballad), "Live to fight another day" (semi ballad) and closing track "To conquer all" (fantastic classy 80s uptempo AOR, kinda reminds me of 80s movie soundtracks such as 'Top Gun' with a LOVERBOY or KING KOBRA playing a song in this style). Fine record, not the best one of the year, but worth checking out for sure and a 'safe' record to buy without listening and enjoy after a couple of spins.

Rating: 8,5/10

Christian poprocker JIM STEED is coming from Washington DC and the CD 'Til I found you' is his debut. The light melodic poprock/aor sounds a lot like artists such as JOHN TAGLIERI, RON COLLINS, JOHN ELEFANTE and FREDDY CURCI. He performed with artists like EDDIE MONEY, JUDE COLE, KANSAS and even ELTON JOHN. 'Til I found you' is not always a pure AOR album, because there are a lot of traces of Pop music to be found later on the album. The beginning of the CD is very impressive and is just pure AOR.

Opener "Sweet temptation" is a lovely 80s AOR tune that sounds like a cross between ROBERT TEPPER and JOHN TAGLIERI. Jim has a super melodic voice that really suits the songs on the CD. "One chance" has a lovely chorus and is in fact a superb happy uptempo AOR/Poprocker a la STAN MEISSNER and JOHN TAGLIERI (again). Up next is the JOHN ELEFANTE typed light AOR ballad "How do I love you girl?", this song is sounding very polished and radio-ready. Totally classic 80s AOR is the following track "Every day & night", a song reminding me of the very first MITCH MALLOY classic, BRETT WALKER, STAN MEISSNER and FREDDY CURCI…

So basically these first 4 songs are awesome AOR tunes, but then Jim changes the style into a more Pop orientated style. A song like "Christina" is just pure 80s Pop a la MICHAEL MCDONALD. The calmer AOR song "Lonely girl" is better and very much sounding like JOHN ELEFANTE. "One day" then again is another Popsong, this one is a ballad. Also the following two songs are Pop ("How did you know" and "Don't let go"). Happily, "In my arms" is a rather good AOR ballad.

Closing two songs ("Til I found you" and "I have nothing") are again pure Pop and offer nothing of interest for the AOR. fan. About 5 or 6 songs are simply superb AOR and a must for fans of JOHN TAGLIERI, STAN MEISSNER…, but on the other hand the rest of the CD is just pure Pop (like the last KYLE VINCENT). It's up to you to decide if you want a CD that is actually split in two styles. Check out Jim's site at: http://www.jimsteed.com and e-mail him at: jim@jimsteed.com

Rating: 7,5/10

This Swedish band has been on the scene for quite a while now and 'Original sin' is the living proof they are still alive. This is their fifth album and musically not much has changed, because BALTIMOORE is still playing Bluesy Melodic Hardrock/Heavy Rock with influences from 70s Rock acts like BAD COMPANY, LED ZEPPELIN and DEEP PURPLE. The new CD contains 10 songs and notable are the songtitles, such as "Conviction", "Indecision", "Emancipation", "Contradiction", "Recognition", "Retribution" and "Redemption", they all end with 'ion'! Anyway, my favourite songs are the melodic rockers "Indecision", "Retribution" and "Omniscience". Recommended if you're a fan of bluesy melodic hardrock and anyone that has got one of the previous albums of this Swedish outfit. More info at their label's site: http://www.lionmusic.com/baltimoore

Rating: 7/10

Out of Las Vegas, Nevada, USA comes LAZY JANE, a band playing typical late 80s American Hard Rock with some Sleazy influences. The band sounds like the perfect mix between FIREHOUSE and TESLA, with some influences of GUNS'N'ROSES and TANGIER. The band features Paul Lancia on lead vocals and if I remember it well he sang with his own band LANCIA a couple of years ago and also released under that moniker a great LA typed Melodic Hardrockalbum (TUFF/FIREHOUSE style).

Anyway, this self-produced CD of LAZY JANE sounds pretty good and is a total must if you dig bands like FIREHOUSE, SLAUGHTER, TUFF, TESLA, EVERY MOTHER'S NIGHTMARE, ROUGH CUTT… There are 11 songs on the CD and the material is ranging from ballads to uptempo pieces and there are also some groovy sleazy tunes. The best songs are "Destiny" (uptempo melodic hardrock, straight-ahead sound a la FIREHOUSE), "Gemini lady" (good semi melodic rockballad), "Wake up" (great melodic rockballad a la TANGIER), "Sometimes" (uptempo melodic Poser Rock a la SLAUGHTER), "Time heal" (another cool uptempo melodic rocker, a bit in the TUFF style) and "Tomorrow" (NELSON
typed uptempo melodic rocker).

The other songs show the other styles I talked about, such as the groovy melodic hardrocksound a la TESLA on songs like "Marshall law", "Sweet music" and "I want you". "Devil's daughter" is very close to GUNS'N'ROSES. This LAZY JANE is a rather interesting band to check out, especially if you want to hear a cross between FIREHOUSE and TESLA. Their website is located at: http://www.lazyjane.com and e-mail them at: Lancia1010@aol.com

Rating: 8/10

MAGDALLAN was the band consisting of SHOUT vocalist Ken Tamplin and HOUSE OF LORDS members Lanny Cordola (guitars), Chuck Wright (bass) and Ken Mary (drums). Together they released a couple of CDs and this 'End of the age' is more or less a compilation of the best songs. But besides already released songs such as the uptempo melodic hardrocksong "Love to the rescue" (Y&T meets HURRICANE) and the lovely 80s Power AOR ballad "House of dreams" (both from the 'Big bang' debut CD of the band), there are also a bunch of unreleased demo tracks that make this CD a must for fans of TAMPLIN, SHOUT, MAGDALLAN (of course) and also AOR fans!

Those unreleased demos are very sensational and pure 80s AOR, so I think the recordings took place long before the 'Big bang' CD from 1992. Songs like "Tumblin' down", "Long way to paradise" and "Danger in your eyes" are superb classy 80s uptempo AOR/Melodic Rockers that sound like a cross between SHOUT and UNRULY CHILD. Other interesting demo tracks are "Give all to love" (lovely semi AOR ballad) and the uptempo melodic rocker "Walkin' on the edge". 16 songs are on this CD and 7 of them are unreleased bonustracks that are a must for fans of 80s typed AOR/Melodic Rock. OK, the production is not that good as the released tracks of MAGDALLAN, but they show how good this band sounded.

Rating: 8/10

THIN LINE comes out of Holland and is playing 80s typed melodic rock. The band reminds me a lot of other Dutch newcomers in this genre such as JACKLYN, LIFEFORCE, RED HAZE… The first two songs are actually very sensational, so fans of female fronted melodic rock must definitely check this one out. The band's main members are vocalist Bettie Patawala and drummer Rene Engel who both write most of the songs. The two guitarists in the band are family of lead singer Bettie, namely Lodewijk and Annis Patawala. The final member of THIN LINE is bassist Marc van der Kley.

There are 10 songs on the CD. Opener "Finally" is a fantastic classy 80s cheerful uptempo AOR/Melodic Rocker in the style of JACKLYN, JOSETTE, DANTE FOX… Next track "You are" is a great semi AOR ballad in the 80s HEART style, striking is the drumsolo during the middle of the song followed by a cool guitarsolo. These two songs are very sensational and therfore I really thought this was going to be the sensation of the year! Unfortunately most of the rest of the CD is poppier and just o.k., but nothing special. Songs like "Love only know", "Remember me", "Cry for help" and "You should've" are weak pop/rock songs with also some funk and groovy elements wrapped into.

The remaining two songs are much better then again. First there is "Be strong", a great classy 80s uptempo AOR rocker. Closing track "Berdiri sendiri" is a nice ballad, sung in the language of the family Patawala (which is Indonesian). Anyway, this band is quite a surprise and some songs on their debut CD are a must for fans of female fronted melodic rock. Hopefully a follow-up will be even more sensational with more pure AOR songs than the 3/4 on this one. More info at: http://www.beatline.com/thinline and e-mail them at: thinline@beatline.com

Rating: 7,5/10

Swedish GLORY are unstoppable, since the late eighties they have been releasing CDs and 'Wintergreen' is their latest. The new CD is not that melodic rock orientated as their previous releases. Still songs like "Blue heaven" (80s fun uptempo melodic rock in Scandi style), "Who's gonna let you know" (HEARTLAND typed calmer AOR) and "El nino" (semi melodic rockballad) are songs that will please fans of GLORY and typical Scandi melodic rock. Weaker songs are "yesterday news" (faster melodic heavy rock a la RAINBOW, DEEP PURPLE) and the groovy tunes "It's human nature" and "Ship of fools".

The production is good, and the CD is a nice melodic hardrockalbum, but definitely not a sensational record, so you don't need to get this one in your collection, unless you like your melodic rock not as polished as the usual releases of labels like MTM and FRONTIERS. On the other hand, the vocals of singer GORAN EDMAN are quite wonderful and give this CD an extra dimension.

Rating: 7/10

JIMMY DRIVER from Fort Scott, KS, USA is only 21 years old and already he has released two CDs. 'Feel the heat' is his second CD, which was released in May of this year. Musically he is influenced by acts like POISON, THE BEATLES, RICK SPRINGFIELD, BON JOVI and CHEAP TRICK. I also heard these influences on his CD, but I need to add here that Jimmy has got a long way to go if he wants to be as good as those acts, because the songs sound nice, but I am afraid the production is a bit too light. Jimmy is playing all the instruments and he does that very well, but his vocals are not really sensational. The melodic poprock of JIMMY DRIVER is in the same style as JIMMY MARTIN, JOEY C. JONES and SCOTT WENZEL.

Best songs are the RICK SPRINGFIELD cover "Love somebody" (done very well and definitely the best song on the album), the midtempo melodic rocker "In the night" (SLAUGHTER style) and the uptempo melodic poprocker "I know she's out there". The first couple of songs are not bad, but they miss something. Songs like "Free your mind", "Get myself together" and "The question" are slow melodic pop/rock songs with BON JOVI influences, but they miss the power and the catchy choruses to make it winners. Jimmy needs to write some more fun uptempo rockers on a future CD, hopefully in the style of that Rick Springfield cover ("Love somebody"). For now, check out his music at: http://www.mp3.com/JimmyDriver and e-mail him at: jdriver@terraworld.net

Rating: 6,5/10

'Understand' is the fourth studio CD of JADIS, but is the first one I have heard. And I think I am gonna look for the first 3 albums, because 'Understand' is quite an enjoyable album that falls somewhere between AOR, Symphonic Rock and Melodic Rock, kinda like ASIA meets IQ, only less keyboard orientated. The band toured through Europe the past decade a lot of times, but I never attended one of their shows. Hopefully they will play soon again here in Europe, so I might see JADIS live in concert.

Anyway, the CD contains 8 songs. The best tracks are "Where in the world", "Is this real", "Alive inside", "Understand" and "Giraffe chariot", these are good semi progressive melodic rockers with some AOR influences. The vocals of lead singer/guitarist Gary Chandler are very good and melodic, and together with a perfect production, this 'Understand' is a recommended piece to both AOR and Symphonic Rockfans. More info at: http://www.jadis-net.co.uk and e-mail them at: info@jadis-net.co.uk

Rating: 8/10

This American band is called 1984 and musically they also sound a bit like 1984, but with an updated sound. 1984 is a cool melodic hardrockband that sounds like a mix between FIREHOUSE, VAN HALEN, SKID ROW and HEAVENS EDGE. The vocals and guitarwork are a bit rough, but the overall sound is very melodic. There are 9 songs on the album that has got a fair production.

My favourite songs are opener "Take me home" (cool 80s typed uptempo melodic rocker a la AUTOGRAPH, HEAVENS EDGE…), "Rainin' in Memphis" (good semi melodic rockballad a la FIREHOUSE), "My eyes" (melodic rockballad) and closing track "American dream" (another ballad). This is a nice band to check out if you like any of the mentioned melodic hardrockbands. More info at: http://www.angelfire.com/oh2/1984 and e-mail them at: 1984rocks@angelfire.com

Rating: 7,5/10

ERNESTINE GOLDSTEIN was born in the American state of Indiana. Her debut CD 'Surrender' is a mixture of all kinds of musicstyles, including 80s Poprock and Funk Pop as well as some 90s typed Pop. Also unique is the use of the instruments, because the guitarsolo on the song "You need love" is actually her voice, sung through an amp simulator. The songs are not really heavy and sometimes it's just pure Pop, but it is all played very well. My favourite songs are the 80s inspired uptempo melodic poprockers "Surrender" and "Love burnin'", both sounding like ELLEN SHIPLEY, LIZ LARIN, early PAT BENATAR and DARBY MILLS/HEADPINS.

The titletrack has a very catchy melodic chorus. Not all songs are that Rock orientated, because songs like "Real love" (funky), "Boy, I want you back" (light Poprock a la TAYLOR DAYNE), "All my life" (even BRITNEY SPEARS references) and "You need love" are actually pure Pop songs. So basically you have here a nice collection of Pop and Rocksongs, check it out if you like female artists such as LIZ LARIN, PAT BENATAR and LISA NEMZO. More info at: http://www.mp3.com/ernestine and e-mail her at: docsound@earthlink.net or Sounddock@aol.com

Rating: 6,5/10

GLASSHAWK is coming out of Brookfield, CT, USA and this is their self-titled debut CD. Musically they play a mixture of 80s and 90s melodic rock and on a couple of songs they add some Rap influences (kinda like D'MOLLS, KING OF THE HILL and EXTREME did in the early 90s). The first 3 songs are also in the style of aforementioned bands, so not really something special. The semi melodic rocker "Nothing's happening" is much better. But the best songs can be found at the end of the CD. These are the 80s typed melodic rockers "Flying", "Do ya know?" and "Too good to be true", 3 great tunes! Hopefully some more rockers like these on a future CD. For now, check out their site at: http://www.glasshawk.com and e-mail them at: glasshawkrock@aol.com

Rating: 7,5/10

Tributes to Classic Rockbands are hot at the moment, just think of tributes to QUEEN, LED ZEPPELIN, U2, SWEET, GUNS AND ROSES, etc. etc. The latest tribute that has been released is a tribute to legendary Pop Metal heroes DEF LEPPARD. This tribute is done pretty good actually, because I really liked the versions of "Photograph" (Jani Lane from WARRANT on vocals), ""Too late for love" (Stevie Rachelle from TUFF on vocals), "Foolin'" (Steve Whiteman from KIX on vocals) and "Bringin' on the heartbreak" (Phil Lewis on vocals).

There are 12 LEPPARD songs covered and each one features a different lead singer. Besides already mentioned singers, we can also hear the vocals of Kevin Dubrow (QUIET RIOT), Kelly Hansen (HURRICANE) and PAUL SHORTINO. The musicians on all songs are bassplayer Jerry Dixon (WARRANT), guitarist Erik Turner (WARRANT), drummer Randy Castillo (MOTLEY CRUE) and guitarist Tracii Guns (LA GUNS). In other words, this is the ultimate L.A. tribute to one of the pioneers of 80s LA Pop Metal DEF LEPPARD, only thing is they came from England!

Rating: -

Out of Indianapolis, USA comes the DERIC RUSH BAND, a band formed around vocalist/guitarist Deric Rush. His CD is mainly an instrumental bluesy album with occasionally vocals such as an opener "Take a ride", a nice uptempo rocker like a mix between PAT TRAVERS and TED NUGENT. What follows is a relaxing bluesy instrumental sound until the end of the CD. Only "Sweet walkin' woman" does also feature vocals. This song is a nice bluesy slowtempo song a la GARY MOORE with Glenn Hughes typed vocals. Recommended if you like Bluesy instrumental rock a la PAT TRAVERS' last couple of albums. More info at: http://www.dericrush.com and e-mail them at: drea@bluemarble.net

Rating: 6,5/10

Out of New York comes HASTINGS, a band playing a mixture of 70s Blues and Rock, a bit like BAD COMPANY, but yet more updated and Hard Rock orientated. The production on the band's second CD is pretty good and also the songs are reasonable to listen to. Nothing sensational here, but songs like "Too dazed, gone" and "Check you out" are fine examples of pure 70s Hard Rock songs, but they don't sound out of date at all. This band is really playing 70s Classic Rock, so if you're a fan of that Rockgenre, then you need to check out HASTINGS a.s.a.p. at: http://www.hastingsband.com

Rating: 7/10

Guitarist Shirikov Andrew comes out of Russia and he sent me his demo tape 'Time Z'. The tape contains 8 songs of which only the opening song is instrumental. The other 7 songs feature the lead vocals of singer Adamov. That instrumental song, simply titled "Instrumental", is a very nice melodic rockballad with some great guitarplaying. The rest of the tape is filled with typical 80s melodic metal (a la IRON MAIDEN). The production and guitarsound is pretty good, but I think the vocals could have been better and musically it is sometimes a bit too Metal orientated. Anyway, e-mail for more info at: shirikoff@mail.nu or time_z@inbox.nu

Rating: 6,5/10

VBK stands for Ken Vance (vocalist, guitarist, keyboardist), Jeff Bench (guitar, keys, drums) and Rich Kitterman (bass). Ken has been working on this project for about 30 years and you can hear this clearly on the CD. The CD is filled with mostly 70s typed Pop/Progressive Pop/Rock. Influences from KANSAS can be heard a few times, but this CD is more in the pure 70s Progressive style of bands like ELP, GENESIS and RUSH. It is a very soft CD which really makes you sit and just relax and listen. The best songs are "Because of you" (bit light AOR like KANSAS/ASIA) and "Eyes of a child" (nice harmonies, very calm progressive light AOR a la ASIA). If you like 70s typed Progressive Pop/Rock in the style of mentioned bands, then you will like this band for sure. More info at: http://www.mp3.com/vbk

Rating: 6,5/10

CONTAGIOUS are out of Liverpool, UK, home of the legendary Beatles and Harlan Cage/101 South man Roger Scott Craig. This debut ep serves as a very interesting intro to the UK's newest heroes of the genre, and over the next few years Contagious are going to raise many eyebrows as this ep showcases a taste of whats to come. The Liverpoolians play chunky melodic rock and AOR similar to bands like Treat, Axxis, Bonfire, Europe, Dokken amongst others.

The band made their UK debut at Z 2000 in May of this year which met with a huge response from the ever picky UK rock fans. So it seems as if Contagious are been lifted into the first divison by the reaction from the fans and not the media in the same way Little Angels did back in the late eighties. The fans want a decent British melodic rock band and Contagious have the potential to break some heavy sound barriers.

I witnessed their gig at Z Rock and after seeing them I, like many others was already very interested in hearing the bands music on cd, and indeed this ep has been welcomed with open arms and is playing pure melodic rock in the same style as the afforementioned bands, partly due to some great musicanship and cheerful catchy songs which is bared throughout this mini album.

The CD starts with "Danger", a superb melodic rocker, the chorus is heaven, 'Dangers' closest friend is indeed Dokken's 'Under Lock And Key' album, the vocals simply melt and the guitars are very strong with some nifty George Lynch inspired riffage. Next up is "Find A Way" - the song starts with some lovely harmonies and ends up being a great polished singalong rocker, one listen to the chorus and you'll be hooked.

Following track "Muscle" is another melodic rocker with a very catchy chorus, this song reminds me of Europe,Treat and Velocity and features some nice keyboard action.

Lastly is "Take Me Higher", a strong melodic rocker again ozzing with Europe influences, flowing with gorgeous melodies and a stunning chorus 'Take Me Higer' closes the ep making the listener demand for more!!! And if you want it then you'd better go and see them live as the debut album won't be out until next year.!!!

Yes for once we have a band that lives up to the stigma, Contagious have made a good start with this ep, British melodic rock at it's finest, and not a minute too soon. Keep it up guys!

Rating: 8,5/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Rolf Munkes is a 34 year old German guitar player. Munkes has already recorded two albums with a band called ABRA. 'No More Obscurity' is his wonderful debut solo album, whilst most shredders are content to just create the ultimate album full of widdle diddle, Munkes takes the initiative by recording a number of songs with singers such as Lance King (Balance Of Power), Goetz F. Mohr and Roland Rooby Rubner.

Of the song orientated material there are five tracks which bare similarities to Talisman, Plus a song featuring Balance Of Power's Lance King which is a cover of Sting's classic 'Message In A Bottle', Lance does a pretty good version.Goetz F. Mohr, whom I have never heard of before sings the lead on 'You And I', 'The Man Who Learned To Fly', 'Starsailor' and 'Lord Of Lies'. Mohr has a really powerful Classic Rock voice, on 'You And I' he sings with an amazing range that lies somewhere in-between Soto, Coverdale and Glenn Hughes, the chorus is very melodic and the song would be a good song to sell to someone like Joe Lynn Turner. 'The Man Who Learned To Fly' is a silvery ballad, and 'Starsailor' is a great melodic rocker a'la Talisman, the best of the song orientated material on the album, proving that Munkes is gifted in the songwriting department as well.

Goetz F.Mohr has a huge future ahead of him, I feel very soon everyone will become familiar with this guys name, I strongly urge Munkes and Mohr to record a full song orientated album in this style, together they are a very strong force.

Rubner's spotlight track 'Where Do We Go From Here?' is again like Talisman, so we end up with not one but two brand new world class singers to keep your eyes on in the future.

Of the instrumental pieces there are nine tracks - one of which 'Drumatic' is a shit hot drum solo performed by Anders Johansson, and I have to say it's pretty chunky, fast and vibrant, nice one Anders.

The best of the instrumental songs is an atmospheric song called 'Mystic Overture' which reminds me of Nuno Bettencourt's 'Gates Of Heaven' coupled with a touch of Vai's 'For The Love Of God'', one minute and sixteen seconds worth of breathtaking virtuoso played with immense emotion.

'That's New' is a legato style composition reminding me of MaCalpine's 'The King's Cup', whilst 'Tap That Thing' flows with killer speedy riffs, but my favourite track is a song called 'Up And Down' which Rolf dedicates to his wife, it's a beautiful accoustic piece similar to Gary Hoey's style and is quite touching and romantic. Because of the albums diversity Rolf Munkes has delivered a wonderful album that never gets boring and keeps the listner interested and impressed right the way through.

You can order this album by going to http://www.lionmusic.com

Rating: 8/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Well here it is folks, the album that everyone has been waiting for. The Vu as your all aware is Kevin Chalfant (707/The Storm/Two Fires), Ross Valory (Journey), Stef Burns (Y & T), and members from The Who and The Tubes.

There are ten songs on 'Phoenix Rising' each song is sprinkled with parpy keyboards and huge singable commerical choruses, not too dissimilar from The Storm, but listen up - this is even better, I have been playing this over and over looking for flaws and to be perfectly frank they are very difficult to spot.

Kevin Chalfant must be one of the most important singers of the existing genre, this release proves that the mans big break must surly be around the corner?

Chalfant's voice is unique, he can sing literally anything that is thrown at him, one minute he sings in a husky Jimmy Barnes range and the next minute the Perry and Bickler influences flood in. Then his voice goes all golden on us in all shapes and sizes..

There really are some amazing songs throughout this album, it's difficult to pick out favourites, but do check out 'Keys To The City' which you all know and love from the 'Union 3' compilation, this song is huge, huge, huge, check out the killer guitar lines which at times remind me of Eric Johnson. Starship actually did a version of this song too, but this one is far superior.

Also check out 'One Track Mind', and 'Hard To Get' both of which rock, the former is a killer catchy keyboard sprinkled radio friendly AOR rocker whilst the latter is very uptempo and catchy, there's some excellent guitar breaks on both songs and Chalfant comes across like Carl Dixon and Jimmy Barnes, making these two songs obvious choices should Frontiers/Now And Then decide to release a single from this album.

'If I Had You Back Here With Me' launches itself over mountains and builds skyhigh into AOR heaven. 'Walk Through The Fire' and 'Lonely Heart' are perfect radio friendly songs, rich in keyboards, the chorus on 'Lonely Heart' builds into an insanely catchy song - the same can be said for 'Walk Throught The Fire' this one is even more radio friendly and
is driven by killer hooks. 'So Long' could have easily been off the last Storm album, a huge killer ballad, not a mushy ballad but a nice uptempo catchy ballad a'la Journey and Bryan Adams. These are just some of the albums finest tracks, have I mentioned the killer ballad 'Save It For Me' with dreamy lyrical lines like 'Melt Into My Arms' that will have the girlies throwing their nickers at the band when they play the Gods on November 6th. Make sure your there as this will probably be one of the best gigs of 2000. Essential for AOR fans everywhere.

Rating: 9/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Lamorna are a wonderful new German AOR and melodic rock band who are simply a cut above most other bands in the buisness and a 'must have' to add to your cd collection.

'The Rainhorse' is a two cd set, and even though this is a home recording, I am pleasantly suprised at how polished the production sound is, clearly alot of time and effort has been crafted into this album, each song is played with tons of emotion and superb professionalism.

The band have been together for around three years, lead frontman Dirk Hackenberg has already recorded albums with the bands Essex (D7), Halifax and Savalage, with Essex probably being familiar to the majority of you.

The first song on the first cd is called 'Mary (I Still Love You)., this song is a super sexy AOR ballad a'la Survivor, Journey, the production is very crisp, Hackenberg puts in a unique performance, his voice here sits very close to Jimi Jamison and the songs hooks will satisfy even the most judgmental of AOR purists,'Mary' is pure quality driven AOR balladry.

Next up is the title track 'The Rainhorse', now this track is one of those irresistible songs, the choruses are heaven sent and colour together AOR and melodic rock, one listen to the chorus and you'll swear your listening to any of the great AOR bands of the eighties, pure class, Hackenberg is one hell of a gifted singer, just check him out, the hooks are also really strong throughout 'The Rainhorse' making this song an instant favourite.

'From Now On' seems to lack the sparkle, partly due to the production, 'How Long' is very melodic, cranking guitars, powerful vocals, this is more like Steve Perry solo material and has a touch of r&b influences.

'How Many Tears' is yet more pure AOR reminding me of Giuffria, Survivor and Faith Nation, the keyboards pick up on this song adding an extra ounce of class to another great song. And it doesn't end there, check out the subtle charm of 'You Ain't Got Nothing', the uptempo and very catchy 'Take Me Back'.

The next track 'Living Out Of Touch' really grabbed my attention being one of those goddamn catchy melodic rockers that hit you in the face immeediatley, this ones reminds me of Talisman, Hackenberg's voice is a deadringer for Jeff Scott Soto on this song, the melodies are awesome and this song need to be heard by the masses very badly, it amazes me how many different styles Hackenberg can sing, check out the instrumental 'Still' which closes up disc one reminding me of bands like Survivor, Toto, Say It etc.., the pure harmonies litterally drip in AOR goldness and fade out the cd perfectly.

But it's doesn't end there as Lamorna greet us with a second disc, and like the first cd this is classy AOR and melodic rock to die for.

If your looking for a song with tons of feeling coupled with vocals similar to Jeff Scott Soto then take one listen to the haunting 'Fading Away', a sexy and melodic song which I could go on about for ages, 'Fading Away' opens up the second cd, and oh boy will you be transfixed with the songs calming nature and delecate but sophisticated piano passages which change from classical piano moods into modern progressive synth compositions swapping place every now and again for some nifty little guitar work which will leave your mouth gaping, it happened to hit me whilst I was in a soul searching mood myself and I found this track quite riveting and spiritually expressive, the way Dirk sings this song makes me wonder why no one has taken notice of him before, this is surly a sign of a man about to become one of the most talked about rock singers today?

'Save Me Tonight' is a strong ballad with a westcoast feel, the lyrics are very beautiful and Dirk again sings with such amazing emotion charged power, imagine mixing Jeff Scott Soto with any top class AOR vocalist, that's what you get with this guys enchanting voice.

'Indians' quietly builds into a hard rocker - the songs chorus is pretty strong and features some dotty/jazzy keyboards in the background. 'I Won't Close My Eyes' is one of those songs that would have fitted the voices of Fergie Frederiksen, Mark Free or Kelly Hansen and is a superb mid-tempo AOR ballad., 'After The Fall' is sprinkled with golden synths and has a poppy tinge to it's charming style, which when opens up the song appears very laid-back in a TOTO style, the vocals remind me of Johnny Edwards (Foreigner/King Kobra) mixed with Jeff Scott Soto, a brilliant pure AOR song that you will love to death, very classy indeed.

Then we get to hear another catchy song with lots of keyboards called 'Crime Don't Pay', again the keyboards play a prominent part and change styles to suit the songs mood which often sound melodic and brings to mind bands like Asia and American Tears, through to Talisman etc.. A great song that is very skilfully played.

The last song 'Reprise' is the perfect way to end the album, colouring subtle keyboards with a small hint of guitar work and sax reminding me of Frank Gambale and Shawn Lane..

With 'The Rainhorse' Lamorna have cunningly avoided falling into a fate of obscurity, the bands ability to express feeling into their instruments and lyrics is rarely bettered, a label who specialises in AOR should snap Lamorna up right away, but don't hold your breath as most labels these days seem unsuportive of new bands, which is such a shame as Lamorna are a band with huge potential. My advise to you is to email the band and buy the album direct, I assure you that you will not be disappointed with 'The Rainhorse' - one of my favourite albums of the year, I'm biased!!!

Contact: dirkhackenberg@yahoo.de

Rating: 9/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Perhaps one of the most eagerly awaited AOR releases of 2000. The Sign can be considered something of a supergroup, the line up includes legendary keyboard player Mark Mangold (Touch/Drive, She Said/Michael Bolton/Flesh And Blood) Billy Greer (Kansas/Streets), Terry Brock (Strangeways/Le Roux). Randy Jackson (Zebra/China Rain) and Bobby Rondnelli (Black Sabbath/Rainbow), this line up looks good on paper I know, but what about in reality,how does this thing sound I hear you cry? Well fear not, the guys are on form and as expected we don't find one weak track throughout 'Signs Of Life',

The opening track 'I'm Alive' has a raw almost seventies sound, perhaps a little pompy sounding, the songs chorus is very catchy, check out some Coverdale impersonations from Brock, which can also be heard on the song 'Signs Of Life itself.

'Aryon' is another favourtie track of mine, this song is lush and glorious and it's one song that will send the shivers down your back. Brock sings with superb passion and comes over like Bob Catley. Actually the whole song has a vintage Magnum feel with AOR influences, the chorus is very addictive and once Mangold's keyboard parping kicks in you'll be hooked..

'Stranded' is punchier, the guitars kick the song into gear whilst Brock's voice is more melodic in a Jeff Scott Soto vein. Then we get to hear a killer ballad called 'I Will Be There For You' which reminds me Survivor.

Fans of Drive, She Said will enjoy 'Wine', the chorus is lovely and Mangold's keys sit nicely into the mix which has a hint of blues about it.

'Desperate Heart' is even better and one of my favourite songs, this is a perfect AOR/ melodic rock song with a killer chorus to singalong with, the Richie Sambora inspired guitars perfectly surround Brock's slick vocals turning 'Desperate Heart' into one of
the albums highlights.

Of the ballads 'I Will Be There For You' is the best, here Mangold puts in a beautiful performance, this song is very similar to Survivor and Drive, She Said, the whole band play together superbly on every track and if your a fans of all the musicians previous outfits then be sure to check out The Sign. Recommended.

Rating: 8,5/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Debut album from new melodic rock/aor stars Teer. The bands music is aimed at lovers of this genre, in fact fans will be won over thanks to the bands polished and professional hook laden choruses, influences are strongly linked with US melodic hard rock bands such as the late and great White Lion, Damn Yankees and Firehouse.

The album starts off with 'Heaven's Not Enough' a safe and fluffy but catchy happy rocker which is followed by 'Sadie', - a great song layered with thick keyboards, next up 'Romeo' sinks into your head from the first listen, coupled with a very singable and enjoyable chorus similar to Firehouse and Damn Yankees.

Another catchy and classy song is 'Vampires Lullabye' possibly inspired by TNT, the last track 'Pride' is powered by amazing guitar virtuoso, whilst the bass is pumped up for the Dokken meets Firehouse melodic rocker 'Beggin'. Also burning hot is 'Tell Me It's Over' - plastered with wall biting riffs that will have listeners foaming at the mouth.

The band calm down and throw in the obligatory ballads with the heartfelt 'Man Of The World' , the nifty Vai inspired guitar breaks make the song similar to Whitesnake circa 'Slip Of The Tounge'.

Overall this band, despite the obvious comparisons - sounds fresh and exciting. A pleasant suprise in a time where there are so many average bands out there.Don't let Teer fad into obscurity.

Rating: 8/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Celebrating nineteen years in the music buisness are Denver based six piece Midnite Jammer Band who are Jim Viviano on vocals, Dave Murphy on guitar, Erik Von Ploennies on keys, Mark Hendrix on bass and Donnie Pottger on drums.

The band grew from their parents basements to the clubs and outdoor festivals. The band went onto release their first mini ep called 'Deep In The Night' which met with underground success in Stockholm, Sweden, the four tracks found the bands style heading into a varied mix of early 80's melodic rock, AOR and Southern rock. Songs like 'Long Legend High Heeled Woman' and the excellent 'American Dream' are typical examples of the early 80's, sounding like a very early mix of Bryan Adams, Nightranger, Prior Park and in places ZZ Top, boasting instant choures to singalong with coupled with memorable hooks, where as 'Sunny Skies' slows the mood down, this song is dreamy and reminds me of Styx and Reo Speedwagon.

The band followed 'Deep In The Night' with another four track ep called 'Moonlight Calling' which is a lot better, the band sound tighter and the songs sound more commerical which is mainly due to Erik Von Ploennies pompy keyboards and Dave Murphy's guitar work both of which are more prominent than on 'Deep In The Night'. Check out 'Keep Keepin On', had the band linked themselves with a deal, then radio back then would have been all over this song, this is a classic piece of AOR that lovers of Prism, Preview, Thrills, Nightranger, Billy Squier and even Boston will love. 'Sally Strutt' stomp along with a big Southern hook, the songs vibe leaves a smell of the 70's rock and roll bands, whilst 'The West Is Best' is catchy melodic rock and my favourite track from 'Moonlight Calling'.

'Back In The Fight' soon followed the release of 'Moonlight Calling' and was met with instant radio success in Denver,this is probably due to the opening title track which simply rocks, the band sound very much like Nightranger and Bon Jovi, you know the type of stadium pounding hard rock that drives fist into the air, a very very catchy song that fans of 80's melodic rock will adore. The last track 'Loosin Ground' continues in this style leaving you scratching your head to the hows and why's a band as good as this didn't get signed at the high of the genre.

The only problem that I can see when you listen to these songs is that they sound a little dated now, the bands performance of the time is very good and it would be a good idea if they could lock themselves up in a studio and re-record them, however the good news is that the band have a new album due out very soon called 'Lifeline' which will be their very first proper cd of which I can't wait to hear. As it stands Midnite Jammer Band are a damn good band and if you would like more information on them then please Email the guys @ jammer01@uswest.net

Rating: 7/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Jet, Teddy, Giz and Marcello make up sleazeters REBEL REBEL from Hollywood who were formed back in 1990 and have been playing the sunset blvd club circuit regularly ever since to enthusiastic fans. REBEL REBEL's new album is like an expolsion of Guns N' Roses, The Sex Pistols,Mad Max, New York Dolls, Spread Eagle, D Generation, etc and is a hugely satisfying record. Check the band out at http://www.rebelrebel.org

Rating: 7/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

'Flame Of Fire' is the excellent debut album from Santa Clarita based Christian AOR/funk band Rad 4 Dad whose style can be compared to Savannah, Toto, Journey, Extreme and The Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

There are twelve excellently produced songs with the best for songs for me being the Savannah-ish 'Raging Storm' which is one of my favourite songs this year.

The song starts off with thunder and rain sound effects, the songs then settles into an amazing melody which will remind listeners of Savannah's 'Left Out In The Rain', in fact vocalist Gregg Lancer sings exactly like Earle Lorde. During the song we get to hear some lovely female background vocals from Sara Tennison which makes the song so gorgeous, sexy and very catchy.

Other songs to listen to are 'Nightclub Suicide', this song has a seventies funky vibe mixed with great hooklines, theres some really cool shredding from Ronnie Reyes once this song breaks into the chorus, 'When Will You Learn' is also very addictive and reminds me of Journey and Savannah, whilst 'Fan The Fire' is another groovy catchy number to get your feet tapping.

The band also deliver a sensuous uptempo ballad called '(Arise) - Come As You Are'. Over all this is a safe album that does have a west coast feel at times but is an excellent album worth adding to your collection. Contact the band via email: bradtaft@prodigy.net or http://www.rad4dad.com

Rating: 8/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Avalable now is issue 7 of New Jersey Metal Mag, 'Metal Rules' featuring the one and only loon of metal Jeff Rappaport who's witty reviews and interviews make for a fresh outlook.

In the current issue (which now has a glossy frontcover) there are interviews with Bruce Dickinson, Zakk Wylde, Manowar, Sebastian Bach amongst others.

The reviews section is a broad range of hard core tharsh metal and power metal bands, the reviews are honest and to the point.

Mr.Rappaport himself can be seen throughout the magazine pictured alongside various stars, particularly the one picture where the lucky sod is seen schmoozing with the one and only Doro Pesch, lucky bastard!! Actually look closer and it looks as if Doro is trying to make a run for it, ha ha (joke Jeff).

Jeff ask the bands some very serious questions like to Maiden's Bruce Dickinson where we find out that old Bruce was in a band called STALLION with one Stuart Smith who Bruce reveals was called Stewie Smithmore back then, he continues with dumb ass questions like 'How Long Have You Been British'? and 'Why did you get mad at your hair and cut it'? through to questions like, 'Do you think you can beat me at arm wrestling' to much amusement, arf, arf!!! poor old Bruce Dickinson huh!!

Anyway Jeff gives a whole new expression to the term journalism, and he unbelievably gets away with it .. As it stands Metal Rules is a bloody good read with lots of humour. You can order a copy by emailing Jeff metaljeff@home.com or metaljeff@yahoo.com OR http://www.metalrulesmagazine.com

Rating: 9/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

The problem with this album is consistency, it's just to damn safe which is a shame as Silent Stranger are competent songwriters and musicians, the songs are played and produced well, it's just that the songs get very samey and lack that little bit of sparkle and bite which I think is down to Michael Schrober's voice, his voice is good on most of the songs and he can pull off some pretty hot ranges, but there are times when the songs are ruined by his thin yawnsome vocals, the music as a whole is too safe, even for me, you know I'd rather go and listen to The Rembrandts or Nelson, listen to the real thing instead of finding myself yawning after four songs.

Saying that, if Silent Stranger can come up with more songs like the ultra brilliant and very catchy 'Soldier Song', then I think we can have a band to talk about, this is a killer song with very addictive hooks, check out 'Walk Away', this song colours fluffy AOR choruses with sharp melodic riffs that remind me Savannah, especially Michael's vocals, a very catchy song and quite possibly the best song on the album, which also hints an influences in the Bryan Adams school of songwriting. I think that's it, the album needs more songs like this and fewer of the average safe and mellow songs, guys, next time crack open a few bottles of Jack Daniels, take a deep breath and crank up the guitars a little bit more, take a learning note from such artists as Bryan Adams, Scott Sudbury and Robert Murdock who may give you more ideas and inspiration.

There are thirteen songs to listen and as I said most are light hearted mid-tempo AOR songs,some of these songs have a modern vibe which confuses the listeners. So lets just talk about the best songs, we have a gentle ballad called 'Alone' which is pretty good, then the tempo is lifted for a couple of rockier songs called 'All This Time', 'Chapter V' and 'Look Into My Eyes'. 'Look Into My Eyes' is the pick of the bunch boasting some fine rhythms and a cool chorus to singalong with. And thats your lot I'm afraid. Alot of people are raving about these guys at the moment and I really can't see why as they are just average and need to take a good look back and decide on a definite direction to take, but hey, this is just one opinion, you may however think totally different and love this record to bits, it's not that bad really, so just approach this one with caution ok. http://www.silentstranger.com

Rating: 7/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)