The latest Female Fronted AOR sensation comes out of Thousand Oaks, California and is called HAVEN. This three piece band has released a terrific debut CD that will appeal to everyone who likes the sound of PRIVATE LIFE, WITNESS, HEART, RADAR… The band consists of lead singer Pamme, bassist/guitarist/keyboardist Michael Brody and lead guitarist John Vanselow. Additional musicians include drummer MATT SORUM (THE CULT/GUNS'N'ROSES) and singer ROBIN MCAULEY (MSG). The production of Michael Brody and John Vanselow is excellent and so are the 12 AOR/Melodic Rocksongs on the album. The CD starts with "The curtain", a great semi melodic rockballad like HEART meets PRIVATE LIFE.

Next up is "Can you hear us", a fantastic semi AOR/Melodic Rockballad. The lovely AOR ballad "All I ever need" follows. Things slow down with the acoustic ballad "Halfway home" (a la CHALLENGE). The first real rocker is "Strange premonition", a nice uptempo melodic rocker with a catchy hookline and a sound comparable to WITNESS. The calmer piano led AOR ballad "Face the day" is up next. Then comes the fantastic classy 80s uptempo AOR/Melodic Rocker "Show them" that combines HEART, TONE NORUM (first two albums) and WITNESS, so a must for fans of that typical 80s female AOR sound. In the same style is "Hold on" that also sounds a lot like the wonderful debut of PRIVATE LIFE. In between these two songs is the acoustic ballad "The road".

"Someday soon" is maybe the best song of the whole CD, because this song is a superb AOR ballad. Next track "Be the one" is a nice calmer AOR/Poprocker in early 80s tradition, a bit like ELLEN FOLEY and RACHEL SWEET. The CD closes very nicely with the uptempo melodic rocker "Forgiveness". HAVEN is really a big recommendation to every fan of female fronted AOR/Melodic rock, especially if you liked RADAR, then you're gonna love this one too! More info at: http://www.mp3.com/haven and e-mail them at: pammeland@earthlink.net Look for an interview on our site soon.

Rating: 9/10

FRANKY DEE is a new multi-instrumentalist from Florida and his CD will be an easy hit for people who like JOE ROBINSON, PHIL VINCENT… although I have to inform you that Franky's music is a bit different, but still good quality melodic rock. The production is not really superb, but I can live with it and it's the music that counts after all. There are 8 songs
on 'I like to rock'. Opener is the titletrack "I like to rock", a nice 80s hard rock tune a la KEEL, ROUGH CUTT… The bluesy slowtempo rocker "I can't fall in love with you" follows.

Then comes the best song of the whole CD, namely the superb late 80s typed Power AOR ballad "Memory with you". This song features lovely huge harmonyvocals and sounds like the REO SPEEDWAGON, SHERIFF and JIMMY HARNEN ballads that topped the US Charts around 1988. It seems like Franky is at his best during the ballads, because my other favourite tracks are the melodic rockballads "Bye bye baby" (old WARRANT ballads) and "Miss lonely". The remaining songs are "Hot and ready" (80s Hard Rock) and the groovy rockers "Too hot to handle" and "Don't take your love away" (nice tunes, but nothing special). The ballads are great, the rockers are nice and the production is a bit average, so worth checking out. More info at: http://frankydee.iuma.com and e-mail him at: frankydee8@aol.com

Rating: 7,5/10

'Babylon' is the title of the new TEN CD and I can inform you that it is the strongest TEN record since their debut album. The production by Gary Hughes is also crystal clear and the CD captures some wonderful AOR and Melodic Rock tunes. The start is a bit heavy and weak, "The stranger" is a progressive metal song that sounds very unlike TEN, but after this first track the melodies keep coming your way.

My favourite songs are "Give in this time" (fantastic huge midtempo AOR), "The heat" (great semi-AOR ballad) and "Black hearted woman" (superb classy 80s uptempo AOR). I think the fans of the old TEN are gonna like this new album a lot, because it is a great melodic rockalbum, comparable to the band's debut CD. Notable is also the concept heard throughout the album that tells us the story about the future city of Babylon, so read, listen and enjoy this great album!

Rating: 9/10

AIt seems like this is a band you either love or hate. Personally I like their music, but that shouldn't be discussed too much over here. It bothers me that people say this band can't play good melodic rock, because the band's second CD is definitely a great melodic rock/aor record. OK, I must admit that nothing new is played over here, because there are clear similarities to all the 80s UK AOR bands such as FM, SHY and.

But don't get me wrong here, the CD is filled with some great tunes that are definitely a nice welcome to the ears of every AOR/Melodic Rock fan. Songs like "Holding on", "All hands on the fire", "This moment so long", "Can you believe and "Kiss from the heart" are simply fantastic pure AOR songs that are very catchy indeed. Maybe the only complaint is about the variation in the songs, because some songs are pretty much similar in style to each other.
Nevertheless, this is a great album that just need to be heard.

Rating: 8,5/10

This is the third compilation CD of FRONTIERS RECORDS. 'Union 3' is the first double CD, so you'll get a lot of music for a cheap price. There are 31 songs on the two CDs, so for people who don't have enough money to buy all FRONTIERS releases, this CD is definitely a must. Also if you have all FRONTIERS releases, you need to have this album, because it features 16 unreleased songs of upcoming releases. Disc 1 is filled with 16 songs taken from previous released albums of bands like TWO FIRES, MELODICA, HUGO, JIMI JAMISON'S SURVIVOR, FAIR WARNING, NORWAY etc. The other disc contains the 16 unreleased songs I talked about. I'll discuss them briefly over here.

The TEN song "The stranger" has just been released, so this is not really unreleased. Next up is JORN, a new singer from Norway who does a song called "Starfire", a nice calmer poppy AOR song that has an updated 90s approach. His upcoming CD will consists of covers and original songs. Interesting detail is that Jorn just became the new vocalist for MILLENNIUM, and that band also has 2 new songs on this compilation. The first one is called "Chasing time", a great uptempo 80s typed melodic rocker that sounds very much like
KANSAS' "Three pretenders", only heavier.

The other MILLENNIUM track is the RAINBOW cover "I surrender" which is perfectly done due to the great lead vocals of Jorn and the keys of original player Don Airey. Expect two new CDs of MILLENNIUM soon, not only a pure new record, but also a CD filled with covers of legendary hard rock acts. But FRONTIERS RECORDS has a lot more surprises coming up. How about V.U., the fantastic AOR band formed around KEVIN CHALFANT that released a couple of superb demo tapes back in the late 80s and actually can be seen as the forerunner of THE STORM. Their included song "Keys to the city" is AOR at it's best! Their upcoming CD is definitely an AOR jewel.

HEAVEN'S FIRE is featured with the tough melodic rocker "Can you believe" that will appeal to all fans of CRY WOLF, DOKKEN, HEAVENS EDGE… The DEEP PURPLE/ RAINBOW typed uptempo heavy rock of VOODOO HILL is not so sensational, but definitely something totally different from what we usual get to hear on FRONTIERS RECORDS.

Moving on to THE SIGN, probably the most interesting upcoming new release. This band features the likes of (hold your breath!) RANDY JACKSON (ZEBRA/CHINA RAIN), MARK MANGOLD (TOUCH, DRIVE SHE SAID), Billy Greer (KANSAS/STREETS), Bobby Rondinelli (RAINBOW/BLACK SABBATH) and last but certainly not least Terry Brock (STRANGEWAYS singer).

You almost can't go wrong with such an impressive line-up and their included song "Aryon" is indeed one of the highlights of this compilation. The song is really superb early 80s Pomp Rock with references to TOUCH, ROADMASTER, KANSAS and SPY. Just listen to those piano-keys and catchy hooklines, it's like the early 80s all over again! Of course also the lead vocals of Terry are simply wonderful. It's amazing to hear this guy singing again, because almost ten years had passed since he sang those two STRANGEWAYS classics. Besides singing on this THE SIGN record, we can also enjoy a soon-to-be released solo album on FRONTIERS RECORDS.

On this compilation also a preview of that solo-CD, namely the great 80s typed midtempo AOR song "Your man again". Further songs on this compilation are from the melodic rockbands TEER and TALON, both much discussed over here at Strutter'zine. HEAVEN AND EARTH is featured with the RAINBOW typed rocker "Politician". Drummer and singer Kelly Keagy from NIGHT RANGER will also release a solo-CD on FRONTIERS next year. His included song is a nice uptempo melodic rocker with some references to the old NIGHT RANGER.

Another surprise is DAVID GLENN EISLEY, the former GIUFFRIA singer will also release a solo-record next year on FRONTIERS. His song "Don't turn away" is a great AOR song and so there you have another release to look forward to. It's not over yet, because another new act signed by FRONTIERS is called SEVENTH KEY and their included song "Missy" is a great 80s typed Pompous midtempo AOR tune that will definitely appeal to fans of WHITE SISTER and PROPHET.

Last but not least is the Danish/Dutch band PRIME TIME with the melodic rocker "Hangin on". Their upcoming third CD will be interesting for the fans of Power Melodic Rock (PRAYING MANTIS, PRETTY MAIDS, NARITA, ELEGY, ROYAL HUNT, NARNIA). This compilation is a very interesting one, because it shows that FRONTIERS RECORDS is preparing to beat MTM in quality AOR releases.

Rating: -

Here's a band for you from Denver, Colorado playing the good old 80s American Melodic Hardrock. Fans of WINGER, DAMN YANKEES, FIREHOUSE, HARDLINE… will appreciate this FULL CIRCLE. Only the production isn't that big sounding, but still this band sounds pretty nice. Their self titled debut CD was released in 1998 and soon there will be follow-up. For now, I'll briefly discuss their debut. The CD contains 8 songs. The first two songs ("Change" and "All I need") are groovy melodic rockers like late FIREHOUSE. "Walk away" is much better, this is a good 80s melodic rocker.

"Body talk" follows, a weaker groovy Hardrock tune. The best song of FULL CIRCLE follows, it's the song "Tomorrow". This is a great late 80s US Mainstream semi melodic rockballad (hello DAMN YANKEES and HARDLINE). "Steal away" is again groovier and weaker. "In the cold" on the other hand is a very good uptempo melodic rocker in the 80s style (DOKKEN meets WHITE LION). The weaker partyrocker "Feel the magic" closes the CD.

I hope the band throws in some more melodic rockers (a la "In the cold", "Tomorrow" and "Walk away") on their upcoming CD, then they could be much more interesting. Still, fans of mentioned bands can check out FULL CIRCLE at: http://www.mp3.com/fullcircle and e-mail them at: Fullcircle97@hotmail.com

Rating: 7,5/10

AARON KRISTO is a vocalist/guitarist from California. His debut CD 'Bare your soul' has a very 80s typed Melodic Hardrock approach in Californian tradition. I hear similarities to bands like FIREHOUSE, DANGER DANGER, SKID ROW and ATELLO. The CD was released in 1996, so time has passed by, but still everything sounds crystal clear and updated. The album was produced by David Kent (SKID ROW, PRINCE) and Aaron himself. Some of the guest musicians include members of the band LIFEFORCE, a melodic hardrockband I reviewed a few years ago. There are 10 songs on the album.

Opener "Bare your soul" is a melodic heavy rocker, close to the debut of SKID ROW. The following two songs are much better. First there is the typical late 80s mainstream melodic rockballad "Broken record" (a la FIREHOUSE, BON JOVI…). And then there's the fantastic classy 80s uptempo melodic rocker "Take back your freedom" that reminds me of a cross between DANGER DANGER, PAUL LAINE and FIREHOUSE. These are the best songs of the CD.

Furthermore you'll get a lot of melodic heavy rock in SKID ROW style ("Heaven's gate", "If you want to survive" and "Wrecking ball") and a few acoustic ballads ("Faith burns" and "Turn the page"). Another highlight is the closing track "The last time", a good melodic rockballad that easily beats the last couple of BON JOVI Ballads. For more info on this new talent from California, you should go visit his site at: http://www.mp3.com/AaronKristo and http://www.AaronKristo.com and e-mail him at: Aaronvox@aol.com The CD is available to buy at www.perrisrecords.com

Rating: 8/10

"First Shot" contains some of Michael Bormann's (Jaded Heart/Charade etc) greatest singing to date. Recently I reviewed a band called Rain where Michael handled all the vocals, this album was very much in the vein of Bon Jovi's "These Days" album, mellow and very summery, well with "First Shot" this is Michael's "Stranger In This Town, and the perfect set of songs to end the summer with.

The nice thing about this project is the range of Michael's vocals, as with Rain, I have never heard him sing with so much power and passion. "First Shot" is often very mellow and summery which could send Michael into chartsville as the songs should be dancing all over the radio airways.

The first song here is "Can't Stop Missing You" which opens up with a calming set of beautiful keyboards, Michael's voice then cuts through the speakers in true Jon Bon Jovi tradition, emotive and sexy as hell, I swear the girls are going to go crazy over this songs power which sets the mood for the whole cd,"Can't Stop Missing You" will stick instantly in your head.

"The Best Is Yet To Come", "How Many Times", "Angel" all remind me of the bluesy tinted sound of Richie Sambora's "Stranger In This Town"solo album, whilst the excellent "Gotta Have Some Fun" reminds me of Enuff Z' Nuff and Bon Jovi. The flamencos guitars get an airing on "So What About", a great song and perhaps one of Michael's strongest songs to date, this is like The Beatles meets Enuff Z' Nuff and is very charming and classy

The ballads are all here in the shape of "The One I Hate" this song bursts out of your speakers and is very up-tempo and catchy, "Sorry Is All I Can Say" on the other hand is one of those big tear jerkers, very subtle and very very powerful.

"Don't You Wanna Spend some" is a song with gospel influences, "If I Was King" and "Children Of The Earth" are both structured around simple pop melodies and accoustic guitars, proving that Michael is one of the rock worlds most underrated singers of the nineties. If you haven't yet checked out Jaded Heart, Charade, The Sygnet and Rain then make sure you do. The Japanese have already made Jaded Heart a household name and like Fair Warning and Ten they are pretty big over there. But don't fear Jaded Heart fans as Michael isn't about to jump ship, Jaded Heart are right now recording their brand new studio
album which should be massive, anyway "First Shot" is a massive pop/rock album with eleven killer songs.

Any labels interested in working with Michael on this wonderful album,should email me at
Nikammusic@thegowerspring.freeserve.co.uk and I will put you in touch with Michael.This is BIG news.

Rating: 9/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

San Diego power metallers Cage were formed in 1992. The bands new album "Astrology" is a bombastic display of classic heavy metal mayhem a'la Judas Priest, Dokken, Iron Maiden, Virgin Steele and Queensryche which has gained the band a loyal following in most European territories, in fact the bands forever increasing popularity landed them a slot on the famous Dynamo Festival in Holland last year.

"Astrology" pretty much keeps the spirit of heavy metal alive, check out the belting metal attack of "Echelon", "The Trigger Effect" and "The Edge". "The Edge" opens up with one of the highest vocal screams of the year, this song mixes the best of Dickinson era Iron Maiden with hints of Judas Priest and Queensryche. "Astrology" however doesn't all together blaze in metal glory because one or two of the songs smolder into obscurity, "Root Of All Evil" is one and "Vandalize" is another, even so it's hard to ignore the sparkling majestic sound that "Astrology" has to offer, quite possibly one of the finest metal albums of the year.

Rating: 8/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Let's say a big hard rocking hello to Tennessee four piece SABER. The band have been together since 1986, their live shows have earned them support tours with bands such as Mountain and Foghat amongst others.

Built on limited production time, the album can at times sound a little unprofessional, thankfully the quality is made up for in the ten rocking songs that fans of 80's rock will love. Most of the songs are very cheerful and tounge in cheek like "Baby Don't Go" which reflects back to the big hair era of the 80's and reminds of bands like Danger Danger, Tyketto, Heaven's Edge and White Lion, the chorus is very catchy and hints a flavour of cherry bubblegum rock which is continued on "Tears Falling Down".

"Come And Get It" and "Go Away" are two straight ahead cheerful eighties melodic rockers - both songs contain killer chorus lines to singalong to, the chorus on "Go Away" has some nice AOR style melodies, whilst "The Wasted" and "The 911" lean towards a heavier metal sound a'la Dokken and Danger Danger.

As debut albums go this is fairly enjoyable, but I was expecting a little bit more bite considering that Saber have been performing for a solid fourteen years, a few songs lean towards yawnsville like the weak ballad "Do Or Die" through to average rockers "Cheating Heart" and "Little Bit Of Luck"which let your attention wonder. For the most part Saber do know how to write pleasing catchy rock songs and deserve to be considered for a future record deal. Any interested labels can contact the band by Emailing: Saberrocks@aol.com

Rating: 7,5/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

A very entertaining singer/songwriter under license to Warner/Chappell is KATI MAC from NEW YORK who has released two albums "TIME" and "18 FOREVER". Both albums are well worth purchasing as the songs as catchy and fun and often very melodic. Kati has worked with such noted artists as Meatloaf amongst others, songs to listen out for are on "Time" are "Third Planet From The Sun", the Bryan Adamsish "Being Without You" through to "I Will Not Lie" and the ballads "Wounded Heart" and "You Took My Heart", my fave song though is the catchy and guitar friendly "Time" which finishes off Kati's debut
album in perfect style.

Even better though is Kati's other album "18 Forever", check out the opening song "Tears Won't Fall", is that the legendary Fiona or what? The chorus is killer and deserves to be a massive hit. "Fall In Line" is even better, catchy and vibrant and much like Bryan Adams, she adds her own "18 Till I Die" style chorus into the album with the title track "18 Forever", a song with the same substance as the afforementioned Bryan Adams song. This is a very catchy song and Kati's voice is awesome, a'la Pamela Moore from Radar mixed with a bit of Pat Benatar, Fiona and Ruby Faith, other songs to listen out for are "Daddy's Gone Again", "Drive On", and the ballad "I Don't Know".

But the best songs are the amazing and catchy "I'm Not Looking For Love" which will leave you singing along for hours, a top song a'la Heart and Radar but so much better and "Good-bye Heartache" a stomping arena song with massive hooks and ever so easy chorus.

Yes Kati Mac's album s are both quality releases, should you be interested in this ladies brilliant music then try visiting http://www.cdbaby.com where you can order both her albums, or you can visit her website http://members.aol.com/katimac7/ or email Kati Katimac7@aol.com

Rating for "TIME": 8/10
Rating for "18 FOREVER" 9/10

(Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Also from New York is SOPHIA RAMOS DUPRE.Sophia also fronts a band called Psychotica and this is her four track debut solo ep, produced by one Billy White. She has also collaborated with musicians such as Jason Nestead (Metallica), Paul Simon, Michelle Shocked and Joey Ramone from the Ramones.

Even though I think that Sophia can sing really well, the songs don't do her the justice and come across as mediocre indy music with a hint of rock 'n' roll, lack of identity seems to be the major flaw here. For more info email: sophiaramos@email.com or http://www.sophiaramosdupre.com

Rating: 4/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

"In The Falling Rain" is the debut solo album from sexy blonde haired Minneapolis babe DEBBIE DAVIS (not to be confused with the Debbie Davis from the band Witness). The first song "In The Falling Rain"which grabs your attention immediatley with it's strong chrous, the song is only let down by the dancey beats which often grace many of the song on this record. That aside this is still a great album, "In The Falling Rain" is a very good song that would have ended up a big chart hit in the eighties, which is continued on the keyboard laden "You Showed Me", fans of Liz Larin, Patty Smyth, Pat Benatar, Mariah Carey, Two Piece Puzzle etc will love this song. a litle more AOR sounding is "Afraid" this is an excellent song which reminds me of Liz Larin and Pat Benatar.

"What Can I Do" and "Where Do We Go" are all kinda disspossable dancey rubbish - although these songs have a touch of Abba about them it's the dancey flavours that again fail to captivate the listener.,

What Debbie needs to do next time is drop the dancey beats and add in more guitars, apart from my minor quibble Debbies music is really really good and deserves your attention. The lyrics are great and sometimes she does shine like on the afforementioned "Afraid" and "In The Falling Raining". I predict a big future for Debbie Davies. Contact her at: inthefallingrain@hotmail.com or http://www.mp3.com

Rating: 7/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

"Music For The Soul" is the debut album for Los Angeles singer/songwriter LADY J. Lady J. has gained a solid following stateside and has played shows at the famous clubs The Whiskey, and The Roxy in L.A.

She has produced and written the album herself and her songs like "Planets Rockin'" and "The Way I Feel" are catchy pop/rock numbers, also check out an excellent song called "Take This Chance"the hooks are killing me, this is a mixture of AOR and pop rock with a killer chorus and cool guitar work.

.Then we get to hear a pleasant piano led ballad called "Images Of You", which is tastefully performed. Whilst half of "Music For The Soul" conjures up dancey rhythms and ballads - the other half of the record at least offers something for melodic rock and AOR fans to enjoy. Hopefully her next album will be more along these lines and then we can really start talking about this talented L.A. chick. Until then those of you interested in picking this album up can do so at http://www.cdbaby.com or by emailing her at artsrep@x-itrite.com

Rating: 8/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

"More Will Be Revealed" is the debut album from US singer/songwriter DIANA BERRY who likes to perform her songs clad in just a bikini, Berry is backed by three male musicians, one of them has a laughable mini-Mohawk that would be more suited to any of the grunge and punk bands. Anyway it's the music and not hair styles that counts and in fairness this twelve song cd isn't too bad and is basically a modern rock album which occasionally hints at melodic rock flavours on the songs "White Knight", "Want It Now",. But the best is "Communicate" which is more suited to our melodic rock needs, this song is a mix of Vixen and Joan Jett and is quite catchy.

You also get your usual run of the mill ballads which are quite acceptable. At the end of the day Diana Berry is a talented lass, she should concentrate on songs like "Communicate" a little more as it feels as if this is where her heart is and vocally she puts in a winning performance on this song. You can contact Diana by emailing her dvrberry@yahoo.com or http://www.home.earthlink.net/-dvrberry

Rating: 3/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Much better are Detroit duo Nancy Douglas and Renae Bernard other wise know as THE 2 IGUANAS FROM EARTH whose six track debut album sees the girls exploring 70's influenced pop/rock songs with very catchy choruses and singable hooklines that sit easily alongside such noted artists as Joan Jett, Heart etc. Songs worth checking out are the catchy "Fly On The Wall" and "Shot Of love".Contact the band Iguana512@aol.com or http://www.2iguanas.com

Rating: 5/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

"Searching" is a four track mini album from Californian artist DONNA who looks like actress Uma Thurman. She has a wonderful voice which really turns her songs into singable chart contenders.

The first song "The Road" is a silky number a'la Paula Cole, her voice is slaying me on this song and I really can't understand why the major lables haven't got be hind Donna. Check out the title song "Searching" a guitar led song, her vocals yet agin are stunning and could give any one from Mariah Carey to Belinda Carlisle a run for their money. You see Donna sings from the heart and that is what makes her songs unique and entertaining. Her music is essential pop/rock, but it's just so appealing that I think fans of Pat Benatar, Heart etc will lap this. The other two songs "Downtown" and "Lay Down Arms" follow along the same musical patterns. Donna I predict will one day be a star. Recommended. Contact: donnatorrisi@hotmail.com

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

Offering a splashing mix of fishy flavoured power/pop is Malibu based mermaid OCEAN. Her debut album "Mermaid Music" is a hugely enjoyable affair offering a hot and cold mix of sexy exotic rhythms, funky riffs, and sooth as silk vocals a'la Fiona Apple, Blondie etc, check out the excellent "Love Junkie", the excellent "Hot Nights", "Siren Song", and "Eclipse Calypse". The last song mentioned is the most rock orientated song on the record - whilst the others are just dreamy power pop sensations with glorious hooklines. I also really like track one "I Want" a song with a vampireric feel. Overall this is one goddamn sexy
record that is defintley worth checking out if you want something that's a little different but with loads of charming personality. One listen and you will defintley be under Ocean's spell. Recommended. Contact: Ocean@ocmermaid.comean or http://www.oceanmermaid.com

Rating: 6,5/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

A long time favorite of mine is a young Californian babe called SHANNON BEATY. Check out her twelve song radio friendly self titled debut album which kicks off with the excellent "Queen For A Day", the chorus on this song is just so damn catchy, Shannon is a lovely singer and this song has huge chart potential, as does the Lisa Dabelloish "The World Of Who's Who" and "Chocolates By...Sheri". But the best songs on this album are "Talk Show Showdown" "Poppy" and the excellent Liz Larin, Heart, Pat Benatar sounding "Coming Home", this is a great song with lots of guitars and a singable killer chorus. Also thrown in are your usual ballads in the shape of the lovely Tamara Champlin sounding "Fake" and "My Heart Needs To Say Goodbye".

Earlier this year Shannon released accoustic reworkings of her debut album with some new tracks. The album is called "Along Came A Spider" which shows off her music in a much better light. Listen out for the two versions of "Fractured" and it's lyrical content "You scribble down obscure words, and call it poetry, another fucked up man, trying to escape reality, an actor, a writer, a lover, in love with no one" charming right, it's still a great song though whichever format it is played in. Other reworkings to listen out for are "Poppy", "Squeeze Frome", and "You First" being pick of the reworkings. Of the new material
there are seven brand new songs with the best being the afformentioned "Fracture", "Her", the ballad "Trust Your Heart", "God Only Knows" and "Had To Be Happy". All the song do Shannon justice and I get the feeling that she can sing anything that is thrown at her, these are great albums worth checking out by visiting her website http://www.shannonbeaty.com or by emailing: Shanbeat27@aol.com

Rating for Shannon Beaty 8/10
Rating for "Along Came A Spider" 8/10

(Review by Nicky Baldrian)

"Flipped Off" is the long awaited debut album from female fronted New Jersey thrashers SPIDER ROCKETS. The band released an excellent ep last year, but with this album they seem to have gone a bit heavier, it's nice to see them exploring their musical roots, but that ep just showed a hint of something special so I feel somewhat let down with this album. I think it's mainly down to Helena Cos, her vocals just seem to growl to much instead of sing, for example on "I'm Falling" she's sings as I remember her signing on that infamous ep, then you get a song like "Time's Up", Helena is trying to sound like Tarrie B. or Coal Chamber, which doesn't work.

Thankfully though there are a few songs on here worth telling you about. The affore mentioned "I'm Falling" is a ballad, it's heavy for sure, but it's style is dark and reminds me Canadian mob Emerald Rain. The other top songs are "I Had You" which is just a great metal song and "Gotta Go" and "Fortune", prove that the band haven't forgotten their earlier roots, but for the most part it's all speedy thrashy guitars and silly vocals which comes a disappointment as I really was hoping that Spider Rockets were going to turn some heads.

Contact the band spiderrockets@cs.com or http://www.spiderrockets.com

Rating: 4/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

If your a fan of rootsy hard rock with touches of R&B, then you may want to take a look at talented New York artist ABBY STRAUS whose album "The Road" is full of classic rock and pop flavours. Featuring ten songs in all, her album offers a decent amount of diversity of which can be compared to Joan Jett, Sass Jordan, The Black Crowes, Jann Arden and The Brand New Heavies. I could go as far as saying that this is what Sammy Hagar was trying to do on his last couple of solo outings. Of the ten songs my favourites are "Big Truck", "Do Whatcha Do", "Desire" "Live In The Light" and the ballad "One More Song"
which is subtle and charming, "Dreamtime" and "Frivolous Wind" didn't work for me, however next time I visit New York I will add in my diary that I must see Abby Straus live in one of those little smokey clubs. Nice album, check it out. Contact: http://www.abbystraus.com or http://www.cdbaby.com

Rating: 6,5/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

"I LIKE IT" is the second album from songwriting duo Lorraine Findlay and Bruce Fields who call this project of theirs NERIAH. "I Like It" features fourteen songs that play it safe aiming themselves at the over 40's market. Overall it's too lightweight for me, too many ballads, in fairness Lorraine has a super voice which reminds me of Diana DeWitt from Venus And Mars, Sheena Easton and Whitney Houston on songs like "My Avelon", "I Like It Like That", "Let's Get It On". Overall nothing to shout about here. Email:- neriah@golden.net

Rating: 3/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

On a heavier note are all two girl, two guy Florida outfit THEOADORE MUDDFOOT. Their self financed album "The Beauty Of The Swamp" features eight bombastic riff laden power metal tracks, the sound is raw and rough around the edges which gives the band it's bombastic edge. They rock though, and remind me of a female Testament meets Warlock, the songs are full of screaming guitars and diversity which makes T.M. an interesting and entertaining band to listen out for."When Dawn Breaks" is a great song a'la Warlock meets Megadeth, also good is "My Silence". My favorite song however has to be "You Were In
My Dreams". This song starts off in a sombre mood before bursting into Warlock "Burning The Witches" era heavy metal,

just listen out for the shredding axe work and thumping bass grinding on this song and prepare to be blown away by the bands majestic power. A great album from a very promising band that you can contact via http://www.cdbaby.com

Rating: 7,5/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

An album of class and elegance is "The Road To Here" from singer/songwriter STEPHANIE WRIGHT from Philadelphia. This album is very dark and sombre and sits nicely alongside artists such as Paula Cole, Jane Fallon, Fiona Apple, Tori Amos, Lady
J. and Celine Dion. There are many many finally crafted songs on this superb record like "Brother John" and "Rhyme"for example. "Rhyme" is a superb song a'la Paula Cole/Fiona Apple, which gives way to an exciting new talent who's personaility and heart flows throught the songs. "The Road To Here", is a great little pop/rock album that is worth seeking out. You can order it via http://www.cdbaby.com or mail@stephaniewright.com

Rating: 7,5/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Tennessee all girl band CATHOLIC GIRLS offer a very enjoyable self titled debut cd.out now on Renaissance Records.The bands style is very early to mid eighties keyboard laden aor/pop/rock a'la Pat Benatar, Heart, Belinda Carlisle and Sharon O'Neill.

Despite an average production sound the album sometimes works with the best of the eighteen cuts being "Vampire" and "Back In Russia".The former is a great song built around keyboards and a killer chorus. The latter is a bouncy number, again lots of great keyboard action and superb warming vocals from Gail Petersen.

Other songs to make note of are "Don't Give Up The Fight, the excellent "Don't Stop". Be sure to check out the last song "Don't Go To War" this could almost be the female Survivor or Hit The Ground Running thanks to the great keyboard work, Gail puts in a terrific vocal performance, this is very much an eighties styled aor/pop rock song. "Where Did I Go Wrong" is also very catchy. There are only a few songs that didn't work so well for me, they are "You Let M e Down", "Private School" and "God Made You For Me", "I Called You Up" is a nice ballad, but it "Back To Russia" and "Vampire" that reep up the awards with this album. These four girls are very talented songwriters and have a lot of potential so make sure you keep your eyes and ears open for Catholic Girls. A very entertaining album indeed.Check 'em out http://www.skymarshall.com/catholicgirls or email fireland13@earthlink.net for more info.

Rating: 8/10 (Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Also worth checking out for those of you wishing to woo your girlfriends with dinner and a bottle of red wine is the soothing but sometimes dancey music of classy dark haired singer/songwriter DIANA CORRADO from New York - who looks across between Cher, Joan Collins and the girls from rock band Vixen. She is a hard working lady who runs her own radio network (WGBB.1240 AM) in the US, yet whilst most signed artists take ages to get an album out, Diana despite being a wife, mom, DJ and buisness woman has already released one album called "Picking Up The Pieces" and is just about to release a second
fifteen song effort called "Rock Me Right", both in such a short time basis and on a limited budget.

Diana was kind enough to send me an advance copy of her fourth coming second album "Rock Me Right". This album is more uptempo than the ballad laden debut "Picking Up The Pieces" (Chanteuse Music). The very first track "Rock Me Right" echoes of early Pat Benatar and Madonna and is a song that in the eighties would have graced any of the motion pictures soundtracks of the time. This is a cool song with a nice chorus lines, most of the album is made up of 80's pop/rock, but it's a good album, check out "Surrender My Heart" a lovely mid-eighties pop song with great chorus to singalong with also nice is the ballad "Can The Heart Bare All". Whilst the album as I mentioned hits on the eighties pop sound, there are some songs that simply don't work being too dancey and techno sounding for my tastes. If I could just persuade Diana to make her next adventure in the tradition of bands like Pat Benatar and Heart then we will really have something to talk about, and my reason for this thinking is that she has that voice that that hard rockers and AOR fantics will adore which will send her skyhigh into chartsville.

I guess her songs could use a bit more bite in the guitar department, but at the end of the day this is probably not what she had in mind. I really enjoyed most of these two albums, Diana does show alot of potential and tries to please everyone my adding diversity into her music which keeps the listener interested which at the end of the day is the most important thing. Let's hope that next time she makes that fully blown AOR album that I feel lies in her heart somewhere. To contact Diana email dcorrado@optonline.net or check out her radio show by going to http://www.wgbb.com

Rating: Picking Up The Pieces - 7/10
Rating: Rock Me Right - 7,5/10

(Review by Nicky Baldrian)

Another band that are really growing on me with their self titled debut album is Californian power metal quintet MALADY who were formed in 1997. MALADY are fronted by busty biker jacket clad rock chick Veronica Freeman who can be considered the new Doro Pesch for the nineties. MALADY are quite heavy though, the guitar tone on the first track "Stand In Line" made me think that this was going into Nirvana territory, but thankfully as the song progresses we can safely delete that observation infavour of a more King's meets Testament, Warlock and Dio stomping metal sound, which is continued into the next song "Big Top".

Another song sparking with heavy riffage is "Insanity", other choice cuts include the Lita Fordish "Spellbound" which suits the bands style alot more, this is straight forward metal with great simple riffs and killer chorus,"The Seer" is also another favourite song of mine, as is "Sanctuary" and "Drowning". "Wish" is an excellent instrumental song which leads into the Annihilatorish "Evil"- the bands performance on this song is great, check out the speedy riffs from Peter Wells, this is classy power metal

The most diverse song though is the very last one "Fourth Dimension" which stands out more because of the interesting character of the songs music. Veronica sounds very much like Doro Pesch on this song.

Overall MALADY are a wondeful new band with tons of potential, watch out for an interview with this band soon, in the meantime those of you interested can contact the band at maladyrocks@home.com or http://www.maladyrocks.com

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