Perfection and the swan song for Erik Gronwall and the band. If it was 1988 they’d be million selling superstars.
02. Harem Scarem - Change The World
The most reliable writing duo in the melodic rock sphere, another perfect example of how to do classic melodic rock with a modern touch.
03. One Desire - Midnight Empire
Upping the intensity and the quality all-round. A brilliantly impressive modern melodic hard rock album.
04. Perfect Plan - Time For A Miracle
These guys are already firmly at the head of the pack for the ‘new meets old’ wave of young kick ass bands modernising the old school sound. Foreigner meets Giant and Survivor, wrapped in big songs and even bigger vocals.
05. Brother Firetribe - Feel The Burn
Four of the 5 this year are from Scandi-acts. A little change up from these guys. Less in your face anthemic, but rather more mature and perfectly constructed. Another example of the Scandinavians doing it better than anyone.
06. Jeff Scott Soto - Wide Awake (In My Dreamland)
JSS teams with Alessandro Del Vecchio for the first time, which brings out the best in both guys. A time-capsule career spanning album of new songs that find inspiration from Jeff’s past.
07. Vanishing Point – Dead Elysium
Outstanding new progressive rock masterpiece from the Aussie band that delivers the progressive highlight of the year for me and my favourite prog album since Threshold.
08. Dennis DeYoung - 26 East Vol. 1
Dennis and Jim Peterik make magic together in the first of two volumes of classic pomp-AOR, exactly what you’d expect from the duo.
09. Arctic Rain - The One
Of course they are from Sweden. A simply outstanding debut album crammed with high energy melodic rockers in the vein of Winger, Danger Danger and HEAT. Would have to be my Debut Album Of The Year.
10. Vega - Grit Your Teeth
The British rockers just keep rolling and keep adding more great tunes to their impressive catalogue. Another great example of the ‘new meets old’.
11. Dynazty - The Dark Delight
Proving that the heavier direction suits them perfectly, the band delivers yet another high-octane melodic metal winner.
12. Revolution Saints - Rise
It seems to be the forgotten album of 2020 if fan Best Of lists are to be believed. It came out in January, so it has been a while and 2020 did last 27 months. But their third turns out to be their best so far!
13. Tokyo Motor Fist – Lions
A sensational sophomore release that is packed with heartfelt melodic rock anthems and a couple of ballads. I think the title track is in the wrong position though and kills mid-album momentum, but the material is unquestionably good. One of the few project ideas that works a treat.
14. Tony Mitchell - Church Of A Restless Soul
Following up the mighty Beggars Gold with more moody British melodic rock brilliance. Very personal record for Tony and brilliant at every turn.
15. Fee Waybill – Rides Again
Yes he sure does! And once again with Richard Marx in tow, the great Mr. Waybill delivers an energetic 9 song set that rocks more than expected with the trademark Fee sound.
16. Black Swan - Shake The World
A Frontiers project with a sound of it’s own! Yes indeed…it is possible! A really fine project lead by Jeff Pislon with Robin McAuley in fine voice.
17. Pride Of Lions - Lion Heart
Jim Peterik strikes again. Nothing we didn’t expect, but everything we hoped for. Not their best, not their worst (which is still a great record anyway). Just more consistently good and enjoyable melodic rock with a natural pomp flair.
18. Magnus Karlsson's Free Fall - We Are the Night
A true return to form this year, with 2 great albums from Magnus, but this is the winner – a sublime selection of high octane melodic metal with no shortage of killer hooks and choruses.
19. The Unity - Pride
Hard and (melodic) heavy, just a powerhouse of great songs, great production and killer delivery. For fans of Masterplan meets Eclipse (for one example). Huge record!
20. Magnum - The Serpent Rings
Continuing their return to form and consistent output, the veteran British melodic hard rock band turned up the keyboards and added more harmonies and the result is another memorable record.
21. House Of Lords - New World New Eyes
The production was well below average for the guys, but you can’t deny the songs were exceptionally good and recaptured some of the swagger missing from the last couple of records.
22. Rob Moratti - Paragon
One sweet anthemic AOR song after another. Maybe Rob’s best work yet and recommended to anyone that loves Journey, The Storm, Hugo and artists with a high vocal, but a rich melody.
23. Unruly Child - Our Glass House
The guys turned up the guitars but turned down the production quality. Would have been rated higher if it had the same production quality as earlier records. Great to see them still creating new music though.
24. Khymera - Master Of Illusions
Once again, a very familiar sound and style and nothing unexpected, which is probably a good thing for fans of these guys. Dennis Ward sounding a cool as ever on vocals.
25. Lionville - Magic Is Alive
Could easily have been higher in my rankings, but some good competition keeps them just out of the Top 20. More marvellous pink and fluffy AOR.
26. Sons Of Apollo - MMXX
Heavy, intricate, powerful, grade A production and even better then the acclaimed debut. Plus Jeff Scott Soto in his natural habitat. Class all-round.
27. Jessica Wolff - Para Dice
A surprise just how good this record is – killer melodic hard rock with a big female lead vocal performance and some really catchy songs. Her best effort to date.
28. Stan Bush - Dare To Dream
This could be more Stan Bush if it was a Stan Bush record from 1988. Stan defies age with his earnest feel good anthems of never giving up and going for gold!
29. At The Movies - The Soundtrack Of Your Life Vol. 1
Almost flawless selection of 80s soundtrack songs, all rocked up nicely, mixed beautifully and performed in lockdown…and now released!
30. Deep Purple - Whoosh
Strongest album of the last few with some tasteful new licks and songs within the band’s M.O. and some sometime restrained vocals from, Gillan, but always classy.
31. Pinnacle Point - Symphony Of Mind
More Kansas than Kansas? Certainly, close… as these guys – formed around the partnership of Jerome Mazza: Lead Vocals, Backing Vocals, Keyboards Torben Enevoldsen: Guitars, Keyboards – deliver one of the year’s best (progressive) AOR records.
32. Landfall – The Turning Point
Another huge debut from Brazil featuring former Auras singer Gui Oliver. A heavier brand of melodic rock than Auras, it still has the melodic integrity of that band and a tougher hard rock edge that makes for a strong debut that should be investigated!
33. Newman - Ignition
The ever reliable and fabulous Mr. Steve Newman delivers yet again. You know what to expect and so it is delivered.
34. East Temple Avenue - Both Sides Of Midnight
Formed in various studios across the world featuring Aussie songwriter Darren Phillips; bass player Dennis Butabi Borg (Cruzh), lead guitarist Philip Lindstrand (Find Me, Arkado) and drummer Herman Furin (Work of Art) with knockout vocalist Robbie LaBlanc (Find Me, Blanc Faces).
What is delivered is exactly as hoped – a world class AOR album with some melodic rock touches.
35. Axel Rudi Pell - Sign Of The Times
Another return to form – nothing different here (no surprise there), but just genuinely good and likable songs.
36. Night Flight Orchestra - Aeromatic
Another retro-themed album in a modern package. Some truly talented musicians involved here.
37. Cats In Space - Atlantis
Epic! And would probably have gone higher if released earlier in the year, having the benefit of being able to grow over time, which all Cats albums do. 70s melodic pomp glory!
38. Toto - Old Is New
Not really a new album, but not entirely an old one either. But…some great songs and the usual Toto flair.
39. Wildness - Ultimate Demise
Just extra good Scandi-AOR goodness once again.
40. Stardust - Highway To Heartbreak
Classic 80s Euro-AOR with a distinct Kevin Chalfant style lead vocal. Very likable and very enjoyable, but whoever made the decision to run with the Pat Benatar cover of Heartbreaker at track two should be immediately removed from any further decision making.
Plus:
41. Mike Tramp - Second Time Around
42. Storm Force - Age Of Fear
43. Dukes Of The Orient - Freakshow
44. Gathering Of Kings - Discovery
45. Champlin / Williams / Friestedt - 2
46. Gotthard - 13
47. Heartwind - Strangers
48. Palace - Rock N Roll Radio
49. Kansas - The Absence Of Presence
50. FM - Synchronized
Not quite (but very worthy of checking out):
- Grand Design - V - Patty Smyth - It’s About Time
Another near-perfect slice of ass kicking hard rock. Sweden’s most consistent masters of hard rock drenched in melody, delivered an album that stayed true to the band’s sound, while bringing in a few new tricks. Bottom line - instantly catchy, powerful, memorable and melodic as hell. My most played album of 2019 and the best.
2. THE DEFIANTS – Zokusho
The dreaded second album curse was avoided simply by delivering another perfect mix of modern meets classic melodic hard rock. Steve West on drums added a new dynamic and made it even more ‘dangerdangerous’. Killer songs and killer performances. If anything…I felt a few songs were a minute longer than they needed to be, but very minor point.
3. DEGREED – Lost Generation
I love every record these guys are done as they increasingly modernise and deliver wonderfully written songs that really could (should) be all over commercial radio. This album is so utterly infectious and the production is world class. More melodic brilliance from Sweden. I thought the intro and mid-album interlude hindered the pacing, but very minor point there.
4. CRAZY LIXX – Forever Wild
The guys have dabbled with styles in the past, but for album six they went full 80s, with blazing guitars, anthemic songs and killer choruses. A monster production made this album one of their very best – maybe their best ever. Whatever they did here, they nailed it and need to keep this going!
5. WORK OF ART – Exhibits
For the band’s final album, they simply did what they’ve always done – they delivered a piece of ultra-smooth, ultra-cool, ultra-AOR heaven. These Swedish wizards use the template of past masters of the genre, yet manage to sound fresh and original. Not their best album, but still essential.
6. CRASHDIET – Rust
It's like, everything good is from Sweden, and sleaze-rockers Crashdiet don’t buck that trend. They too have varied up their sound over several records and several singers, but each and every time they have delivered something memorable. They do it again right here – nice to hear something fresh and original alongside more familiar sounds.
7. UNRULY CHILD – Big Blue World
A little bit of extra grunt and some excellent songs. Possibly the smoothest melodic rock band this side of anywhere, Unruly Child create a unique style of commercial American AOR. I hope they keep making records for many years to come. Marcie Free remains a revelation on vocals.
8. VIANNA – Forever Free
The surprise package of the year for me. Just a really great dose of high energy melodic rock/AOR with big choruses, melodic verses and some fine performances all-round. New-comer AOR vocalist Bryan Cole and vocal legend Terry Brock supply lead and backing vocals, making this an even sweeter sounding record.
9. STARBREAKER – Dysphoria
The dynamic Tony Harnell finally teamed up again with the talented guitarist/producer Magnus Karlsson for a new chapter in the Starbreaker name. And we got exactly what we wanted – powerful modern hard rock with breathtaking vocals and rifftastic guitars, both driven by a monster production.
10. ALLIANCE – Fire And Grace
Production quality was down on the last near perfect album, but plenty to like here with the outfit's usual style and grace. Robert Berry’s perfect AOR vocals drive the album as always.
11. LEVERAGE – Determinus
A big vocalist change and a long time between drinks for these guys - that placed a big question mark against Leverage before this release. Urban Tale’s Kimmo Blom uses the rough side of his powerful voice (didn’t know he had one!) and as in previous efforts, the songs are excellent – a slightly progressive melodic hard rock/metal style. Great stuff in the end.
12. TESLA – Shock
I’m surprised more fans didn’t go for this. There seemed to be a decent number of complaints online after its release, but this Def Tesla record stands on its own as a quality piece of music. Sure it was a little light and Phil Collen obviously over-influenced production and writing, but it’s a cool record. Cooler than the last few Leppard albums!
13. GATHERING OF KINGS – First Mission
A lack of distribution and the availability of physical copies didn’t dampen the hype around this super prog-pomp melodic rock record. Some terrific performances and lots of great vocals. Another big Scandi winner.
14. FIRST SIGNAL – Line Of Fire
It's Harry Hess. It's essential. Daniel Flores takes over some instrumentation and production, so it has that 'wall of keyboards' sound that he brings to most records, but a good selection of songs from the Frontiers regulars, and Harry getting to do something out of the Harem sound always makes for a good listen.
15. X-ROMANCE – Voices From The Past
House Of Shakira’s Andreas Novak featured on vocals – some catchy and traditional Scandi melodic rock that does the job nicely.
16. PRETTY MAIDS – Undress Your Madness
Battling cancer, Ronnie still manages to deliver more energy and attitude than most and while this could simply be described as ‘another Pretty Maids album’, it’s the quality throughout and the consistency of the band that makes it an album to admire.
17. NITRATE – Wide Open
More classic 80s melodic rock with a modern production. Midnite City in vibe and sound thanks to Rob Wylde's co-writing with founder Nick Hogg, plus Osukaru’s Philip Lindstrand jumps in for vocals this time around.
18. ROULETTE – Now
It's Scandi, it’s powerful, it's melodic and it's wonderful! Another band to add to the list of new-era modern melodic rock bands to devour for their classic melodic rock style.
19. SOLEIL MOON – Warrior
Soft and smooth, a little AOR and a little Westcoast; a quality record largely thanks to the vocals of Larry King.
20. WAKE THE NATION – Heartrock
It's Scandi, it's powerful, it's….you know the drill. This time the band are Finnish, and their second album moves them up in the power rankings for bands to watch out for.
21. FIND ME – Angels In Blue
Still quality, but perhaps the weakest album of the project’s 3 releases, but still good enough to make the Top 30. Overdone on the keyboards again, but Robbie LaBlanc sounds amazing.
22. CARL DIXON - Unbroken
He most certainly is unbroken. Another high-quality release from the Coney Hatch founder. It may be a solo record, but it has the 80s Hatch feel, with a modern touch.
23. TOBY HITCHCOCK - Reckoning
Well short of the debut, with Daniel Flores in charge of production this time around. The album is buried in too many keyboards (a Flores trademark), but the songs are mostly memorable and Toby’s voice shines as one of America’s best ‘new-era’ AOR vocalists.
24. SOTO - Origami
Jeff Scott Soto’s own band for delivering modern hard rock/melodic metal delivers album number 3, which continues the growth of the band and their sound. The best of the 3 without doubt.
25. LOVEKILLERS – Lovekillers
Tony Harnell strikes again! Two albums in the Top 30 for 2019 is quite the accomplishment. This is another of those ‘project’ releases, with Alessandro Del Vecchio the man alongside Tony, working somewhat collaboratively. The style is something many fans have wanted to hear from Tony for a while now and some (but not all) of this album works to satisfy that demand. It's very good – but not quite great. More song consistency and a move away from a standard 'Frontiers project sound' would help album number 2.
26. RESTLESS SPIRITS – Restless Spirits
Lords Of Black guitarist Tony Hernando assembled an album’s worth of melodic songs and some of the genre’s leading vocalists including Johnny Gioeli, Deen Castronovo, Dino Jelusic (Animal Drive), Alessandro Del Vecchio. A few outstanding songs but its also a little inconsistent.
27. TONY MILLS – Against The law
Talk about saving your best for last. Another very consistent artist and an all-round good guy. Tony delivered one of his best ever performances before bowing out after a long fight with cancer. RIP Tony. Thanks for the tunes.
28. JIM PETERIK & WORLD STAGE – Winds Of Change
The ever reliable Jim Peterik always delivers. Great songs and great singers once again such as Mike Reno, Dennis DeYoung, Gunnar and Matthew Nelson, Danny Vaughn and Lars Safsund. There’s enough info right there to ensure a purchase.
29. HARDLINE – Life
Not as immediate as some Hardline releases and that’s a little strange to say considering the sound is more along the traditional style the band is most loved for. But as with all Hardline releases, there is quality here worthy of inclusion in the Best Of list.
30. EDGE OF FOREVER – Native Soul
Alessandro Del Vecchio tops off another busy year with his third mention in this list. This time it's back to where he came from, bringing a tasty new slice of traditional European melodic rock with his own band Edge Of Forever.
JUST OUTSIDE THE 30:
ROCKET LOVE – Greetings From Rocketland
HOUSE OF SHAKIRA - Radiocarbon
AXE - Final Offering
LONERIDER - Attitude
MORANO - Incognito
91 SUITE - Starting All Over EP
DAVID GLEN EISLEY - Tattered, Torn and Worn
ART NATION - Transition
JIMMY BARNES - My Criminal Record
STATION - Stained Glass
GREGG ROLIE - Sonic Ranch
ROBERT TEPPER - Better Than The Rest
BLACK STAR RIDERS - Another State Of Grace
MIKE TRAMP - Stray From the Flock
BURNING RAIN - Face The Music
COLORVINE - Wake Up
DREAM THEATER - Distance Over Time
FIGHTER V - Fighter
MICHAEL BORMANN'S JADED HARD - Feels Like Yesterday
NOT EVEN CLOSE:
ROXY BLUE - Roxy Blue
WHITESNAKE - Flesh And Blood
BLOOD RED SAINTS - Pulse
DAVE BICKLER - Darklight
SAMMY HAGAR AND THE CIRCLE - Space Between
SHARK ISLAND - Bloodline
THUNDER - Please Remain Seated
NO CHANCE:
QUIET RIOT - Hollywood Cowboys
L.A. GUNS - The Devil You Know
BRYAN ADAMS - Shine a Light
KANE ROBERTS - The New Normal
YNGWIE MALMSTEEN - Blue Lightning
TORA TORA - Bastards Of Beale
NOTE: There are NO MRR titles included in my Best Of, which is the usual method I employ. While I love them all, it for for others to judge those and I think MRR had a great year, if feedback is anything to go by.
A wonderful year for music. One of the best. Pretty easy to pick my favourites and even though I haven’t had time to review a good many of these, they have all been in high rotation over the last 12 months. And yes, I will still run through some Reviews In Brief and add as many of these titles to the site. Past my Top 10, the rest were all very hard to put in order – some outstanding titles here, with quality music for all tastes released in 2017.
If you haven’t heard some of these titles, don’t waste another minute, check them out!
01. Harem Scarem – United
02. Eclipse – Monumentum
03. One Desire – One Desire
04. H.E.A.T – Into The Great Unknown
05. Threshold – Legend Of The Shires
06. Night Ranger – Don’t Let Up
07. Heaven & Earth – Hard To Kill
08. Degreed – Degreed
09. [TIE] Mr. Big – Defying Gravity
Tokyo Motor Fist - Tokyo Motor Fist
Kryptonite - Kryptonite
10. Sons Of Apollo – Psychotic Symphony
11. Wayward Sons – Ghosts Of Yet To Come
12. Black Country Communion – BCCIV
13. Night Flight Orchestra – Amber Galactic
14. Brother Firetribe – Sunbound
15. Jorn – Life On Death Road
16. All 4 1 – All 4 1
17. Art Nation – Liberation
18. Code Red – Incendiary
19. Houston – III
20. Riverdogs – California
21. Styx – The Mission
22. Inglorious – II
23. Wildness – Wildness
24. Lionville – World Of Fools
25. [TIE] Newman – Arial
Pick Cream 69 - Headstrong
26. Jeff Scott Soto – Retribution
27. Pride Of Lions – Fearless
28. Ten – Gothica
29. Revolution Saints – Light In The Dark
30. Tony Mills – Streets Of Chance
31. ColdSpell – A New World Arise
32. Midnite City – Midnite City
33. Cheap Trick – We’re All Alright
34. Crazy Lixx – Ruff Justice
35. The Radio Sun – Unstoppable
36. Santa Cruz – Bad Blood Rising
37. Dirty White Boy – Down And Dirty
38. Deep Purple – Infinite
39. Steve Walsh – Black Butterfly
40. Thunder – Rip It Up
41. Kee Of Hearts – Kee Of Hearts
42. Unruly Child – Can’t Go Home
43. Eden’s Curse – Eden’s Curse Revisited
44. Tales From The Porn – H.M.M.V
45. Jim Jidhed – Push On Through
46. Raintimes – Raintimes
47. Age Of Reflection – In The Heat Of The Night
48. Phantom 5 – Play To Win
49. Martina Edoff – We Will Align
50. Bonfire – Byte The Bullet
Song Of The Year
Threshold – Small Dark Lines
Harem Scarem – Here Today Gone Tomorrow
One Desire – Turn Back Time
H.E.A.T – Redefined
Revolution Saints – I Wouldn’t Change A Thing
Harem Scarem – Heaven And Earth
Eclipse – Vertigo
Eclipse – Never Look Back
H.E.A.T – Into The Great Unknown
Threshold – Stars & Satellites
Heaven & Earth – Hard To Kill
Heaven & Earth – The Game Has Changed
One Desire – Hurt
Sons Of Apollo – Coming Home
Sons Of Apollo – Signs Of The Times
Night Ranger – Somehow Someway
Night Ranger – Say What You Want
Mr. Big – Mean To Me
Mr. Big – Defying Gravity
Night Flight Orchestra – Jennie
Night Flight Orchestra – Something Mysterious
Unruly Child – The Only One
Pride Of Lions – All I See Is You
Riverdogs - The Revolution Starts Tonight
MelodicRock Records 2017 Releases
A special mention for the MRR releases of 2017. I would personally rank them all in the Top 50, but in an attempt to remain unbiased, I’ve left them out. But I am really proud of what the label has managed to achieve this year, it’s been MRR’s biggest year for number of releases, plus for sales in total and for individual titles setting sales records.
So what this means – I’ll have to make 2018 even bigger and better and so far it’s looking just that way! Stay tuned for news soon!
A huge HUGE thanks to the artists for believing in MRR and making this small label your home.
Another big thanks to all the journos, media outlets and magazines that featured MRR releases during the year.
And finally a big BIG thank you to all the stores and distribution outlets that also supported MRR and did such a great job getting these out there to fans.
To every single person that bought one or all of the releases this year – you guys ROCK!
Johnny Lima – Johnny Lima / Made In California (Reissues w/Bonus Tracks)
Shotgun Symphony – The Last Symphony (Reissues w/Unreleased)
Don Barnes – Ride The Storm (Previously Unreleased)
Arti Tisi Trilogy – New York City, Back Again & The Reeperbahn (All Previously Unreleased)
Jimmy Davis & Junction – Kick The Wall (Deluxe Edition)(Reissue w/Bonus Live Disc)
Jimmy Davis & Junction – Going The Distance (Previously Unreleased)
Rian – Out Of The Darkness (Debut Album)
Jan Akesson's Shadow Rain – Ascension (Debut Solo Album)
Scherer / Batten – Battlezone (Featuring Songs by Jim Peterik)
20 essential guitarists that we couldn’t have lived without over the past 20 years. There are of course many more, but this is 20 that have really stood out for me and contributed so many records to my collection. Hopefully this list will remind you of their contributions to this scene over the past 20 years.
In no particular order:
- Magnus Karlsson (Allen/Lande, Starbreaker, Freefall, Primal Fear, Last Tribe, Kiske Sommerville)
- Erik Martensson (Eclipse, W.E.T, Toby Hitchcock, Jimi Jamison, The Friday Nights, Ammunition, Nordic Union)
2016 is of course the 20th Anniversary of MelodicRock.com – my online presence began in October 1996 with a basic news website (under a couple of different names) before the domain MelodicRock.com was adopted in 1998 (or thereabouts!)...
To celebrate 20 years covering the music we all love, I am posting a number of 20FROM20 features, counting down some of the best music and artists of the last 20 years, 1996-2016.
So let’s get started!
20 LESS KNOWN YET ESSENTIAL MELODICROCK ALBUMS YOU REALLY SHOULD OWN FROM THE LAST 20 YEARS…
01. HUMANIMAL - Humanimal
Named after a Talisman album, this one off project featuring JSS, Marcel Jacob and Pontus Norgren, it’s a masterclass in melodic, yet heavy and groovy hard rock. And the songs are simply unforgettable. Still one of my favourite JSS albums ever.
02. THE SIGN - Signs of Life
The production didn’t do justice to the quality of the songs, but this teaming of Terry Brock, Randy Jackson, Mark Mangold and Billy Greer was a true masterstroke. The guys wrote the material together, so it reflected a new band, not a project and the mix of progressive and AOR created some stunning music that is every bit as wonderful today.
03. KHARMA - Wonderland
One of my favourite Goran Edman fronted albums ever. Glorious Swedish album that has sadly never been followed up. Its pomp meets classic rock meets Scandi melodic rock. It’s brilliant.
04. MILLENIUM - Hourglass
Still one of the best Jorn Lande fronted albums and a brilliant mix of commercial hard rock and soaring chorus melodies with the power of Whitesnake or Blue Murder. Ralf Santolla and crew rule.
05. SNAKES IN PARADISE - Dangerous Love
Stefan Berggren remains one of the best vocalists around and he is sadly underrated as is this band. This is their best album and still one of my all time favourites from Sweden.
06. SR71 - Now You See Inside
The band defined the modern rock sound in the late 90s, a really promising band, terrific melodic yet powerful songs. Want to know what the nu-breed of melodic rock sounds like – it’s this album!
07. NELSON - Life
The Nelsons took a step back from their normal sound to deliver one of the finest pop/rock harmony records ever. This is still my favourite Nelson album – its pure pop, but it’s also pure melodic bliss. And the songs are unbelievably catchy.
08. JIMI JAMISON’S SURVIVOR – Empires
A little controversial because Jimi was fighting Frankie over the name, and the album had a
rough time in production, with the band having their own issues, but in the end it got made and the songs were moody and wonderful and the vocal performance from Jimi was glorious.
09. WESTWORLD - Westworld
TNT’s Tony Harnell and Riot’s Mark Reale with Bruno Ravel. This is the first of four albums and it perfectly demonstrates what I love about Tony when he turns slightly heavier and darker. Brilliant.
10. BOB CATLEY - The Tower
Bob’s debut solo album saw the Magnum vocalist turn heavier, darker and with the backing of Ten and the songs of Gary Hughes, he delivered a masterpiece. Ten meet Magnum, but heavier than both. Still sounding fresh and vibrant.
11. CROWN OF THORNS - Lost Cathedral
The debut album is the one that gets all the love, but don’t leave this one out of your collection. The sometimes patchy COT deliver their most consistent and strong album after the debut.
12. WHITESNAKE - Restless Heart
David Coverdale turns down the screams and sings in the tone of an older, mature vocalist, who may not have the range, but had lost none of the charisma and warmth only he could deliver. And some terrific mid-tempo songs too. Wish he’d come back to this style.
13. KIP WINGER - Thisconversationseemslikeadream
Personal tragedy provided lyrical depth not seen before from Kip, or just about any other artist for that matter. Musically it is like an opera, it is a true masterpiece and immediately become a long-time favourite. Mood, melody, intelligent arrangements and impossible not to love and respect.
14. SHUGAAZER - Shift
Paul Laine does modern melodic rock with the same class and talent as he does everything else. Hugely underrated album with some truly amazing songs, none better than the heart wrenching ballad Something Worth Waiting For.
15. ATTRACTION 65 - Attraction 65
Another modern album, but as with everything the late, great Gregg Fulkerson does, its filled with deep melodies, moody Springsteen-esque Americana. The difference here is the more modern sound and to be honest, these songs could have been on any radio station in the world, such was their quality.
16. LEVERAGE - Tides
Vocalist Pekka Heino and guitarist Torsti Spoof form the backbone of this album – another glorious slice of Scandinavian melodic hard rock/metal. Power, finesse and a big fat production equals an album that has not yet been topped.
17. BEGGARS & THIEVES - Look What You Create
Like Crown Of Thorns, B&T get all the love for their debut – well deserved to. But this is a fine quality album too and really showcases the awesome vocals of Louie Merlino. Another one of my favourite bands because they are different than the majority.
18. VON GROOVE - Test of Faith
Another instance of a band stepping back from heavier origins to concentrate on songs and delivering big time. It’s more melodic than any other album in their catalogue, and it really suited them. Easily my favourite Von Groove album.
19. ALFONZETTI - Ready
Matti Alfonzetti delivers a commercial melodic rock album with a few covers and a few originals, but all great performances and one for all fans of classic melodic rock.
20. STRANDED – Long way To Heaven
This album goes back to 1999 and I’m still waiting for a sequel! Agent’s Troy Reid brings his gruff, quirky vocals to a project fronted by Canadian guitarist Kenny Kaos (Pokerface/The Distance). Once again, it’s the songs that rule the day. I hated this on first listen, but just to demonstrate you never review anything until it’s worn in, I came to love it and still do.
(Insert usual disclaimer and apologies for lateness)
(Insert usual disclaimer stating that it's never too late to revisit past releases and make sure you're not missing anything!)
Thanks for reading and sharing - this is the Best Albums Of 2015 and some of the very best songs from those albums. Apologies for the abbreviated format this year.
The 2015 MelRock Awards
2015 Album Of The Year
Eclipse - Armaggedonize
Toto - XIV
Degreed - Dead But Not Forgotten
Revolution Saints - Revolution Saints
Peterik/Scherer - Risk Everything
Maxx Explosion - Dirty Angels
Art Nation - Revolution
Europe - War Of Kings
Def Leppard - Def Leppard
Room Experience - Room Experience
Find Me - Dark Angel
Khymera - The Grand Design
Soto - Inside The Vertigo
Joel Hoekstra's 13 - Dying To Live
The Radio Sun - Heaven Or Heartbreak
Station - Station
Constancia - Final Curtain
Shinedown - Threat to Survival
Halestorm - Into The Wild Life
Magnus Karlsson's Free Fall - Kingdom Of Rock
Rick Springfield - Stripped Down
Radio Exile - Radio Exile
Care Of Night - Connected
Skintrade - Scarred For Life
FM - Heroes And Villans
Talon - Fourplay
Cain's Offering - Stormcrow
Stryper - Fallen
Sweet/Lynch - Only To Rise
House Of Lords - Indestructable
S.A.Y - Orion
Ten - Isla De Muerta
The Poodles - Devil In The Details
Serpentine - Circle Of Knives
COP - State Of Rock
Blood Red Saints - Speedway
Issa - Crossfire
Nightwish - Endless Forms Most Beautiful
The Winery Dogs - Hot Streak
Praying Mantis - Legacy
Cats In Space - Too Many Gods
Jorn Lande and Trond Holter - Dracula - Swing Of Death
Thanks again for reading and the great enthusiasm for these awards each year. For anyone new to this - this is not a vote or a poll; this is my own personal take on the music and news that I covered on MelodicRock.com over the course of 2013. These are my favourite songs, my favourite albums and whatever else...
In listing these artists and also handing out some awards, it is my hope as always that it will help remind folks of some music they missed or help them appreciate some of the artists behind the music for their efforts in 2013.
Enjoy the read and do let me know what you think!
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
1
W.E.T.
Rise Up
Following up an acclaimed debut is no easy task, but these guys moved from a project to a band with this excellent sophomore release. A tougher, more cohesive album that contained some more stunning melodic rock songs.
2
Harem Scarem
Mood Swings II
This has to be the best effort at re-recording a classic album/old material by any band yet. The guys captured the energy and vibe of the original and still managed to add a few little twists. And the three new songs were as stunning as possibly could be.
3
7th Key
I Will Survive
A sum of its parts more than individual highlights, but in the end it was everything that folks expected from the highly accomplished pair of Greer and Slamer. A more technical and progressive slice of melodic rock this time around, and so much depth to the production.
4
Degreed
We Don't Belong
With hardly any promotion and a label that disappeared soon after the release of this album, the Swedish lads still managed to push a genre forward with a highly addictive and memorable set of songs that helps modernize the classic melodic rock sound we all love.
5
The Poodles
Tour De Force
Proof that a band can still continue to learn and improve, even on their fifth outing. The band struggled with the album prior to this, but stormed back to the forefront of Scandi melodic hard rock here.
6
Magnus Karlsson's FreeFall - Magnus Karlsson's FreeFall
- Powerful, passionate and right in your face from start to end!
7
Eden's Curse - Symphony Of Sin
- From diversity comes the rewards...and EC storm back with their most melodic work yet.
8
Adriangale - Suckerpunch
- Great to have these guys back and.
9
Heaven & Earth - Dig
- The return of classic rock - in a truly classic sense. An epic album right out of 1977.
10
The Winery Dogs - The Winery Dogs
- You can teach an old dog new tricks! An inspired pairing of musicians here. /font>
11
House Of Shakira - Pay To Play
12
Steve Lukather - Transition
13
Vega - What The Hell
14
Find Me - Wings Of Love
15
Revolution Road - Revolution Road
16
The Theander Expression - Strange Nostalgia
17
John Elefante - On My Way To The Sun
18
Newman - Siren
19
Brett Walker - Straight Jacket Vacation
20
Faith Circus - Turn Up The Band
21
Covered Call - Impact
22
Stryper - No More Hell To Pay
23
Fergie Frederiksen - Any Given Moment
24
Crashdiet - The Savage Playgound
25
Royal Hunt - A Life To Die For
26
N.O.W. - Bohemian Kingdom
27
Burning Rain - Epic Obsession
28
Deep Purple - Now What?!
29
Sparklands - Tomocyclus
30
Jesse Damon - Midnight In The Garden Of Eve
31
Bai Bang - All Around The World
32
Laneslide - Flying High
33
Tainted Nation - F.E.A.R
34
Tom Kiefer - The Way Life Goes
35
FM - Rockville
36
Fate - If Not For The Devil
37
Pretty Maids - Motherland
38
Black Star Riders - All Hell Breaks Loose
39
Coney Hatch - Four
40
Robin Beck - Underneath
Honorable Mentions: (in no particular order)
Dream Theater - Dream Theater
LRB - Cuts Like A Diamond
Guru - White
Hardcore Superstar - C'mon Take On Me
ColdSpell - Frozen Paradise
Code Of Silence - Dark Skies Over Babylon
Redrum - Victims Of Our Circumstances
Houston - II
Michael Schenker - Temple Of Rock
Dream Theater - Dream Theater
Bombay Black - Bullets And Booze
Edge - Heaven Knows
Mad Max - Interceptor
Human Fortress - Raided Land
Reckless Love - Spirit
Pink Cream 69 - Ceremonial
Gary Schutt - Moving Parts
Arc Angel - Harlequins Of Light
Snowfall - Cold Silence
Fair Warning - Sundancer
Jorn - Symphonic
Vertical Horizon - Echoes From The Underground
Starship feat. Mickey Thomas - Loveless Fascination
Ra - Critical Mass
Angelica - Thrive
James LaBrie - Impermanent Resonance
Daryl Braithwaite - Forever The Tourist
Rage Of Angels - Dreamworld
THE BEST METAL / PROG ALBUM:
Magnus Karlsson's FreeFall - Magnus Karlsson's FreeFall
Tainted Nation - F.E.A.R.
Dream Theater - Dream Theater
Royal Hunt - A Life To Die For
Human Fortress - Raided Land
James LaBrie - Impermanent Resonance
Jorn - Symphonic
Pamela Moore - Resurrect Me
Death Dealer - War Machine
Stormzone - Three Kings
BEST DEBUT ALBUM OF 2013:
..(New Band/Artist/Solo Debut, Not Project)
The Winery Dogs - The Winery Dogs
The Theander Expression - Strange Nostalgia
Tainted Nation - F.E.A.R.
Black Star Riders - All Hell Breaks Loose
Laneslide - Flying High
Code Of Silence - Dark Skies Over Babylon
Angelica - Thrive
Rage Of Angels - Dreamworld
Sparklands - Tomocyclus
Snowfall - Cold Silence
De La Cruz - Street Level
LaValle - Dear Sanity
BEST COMPILATION OR LIVE ALBUM:
Def Leppard - Viva! Hysteria
Europe - Live At Sweden Rock
John Waite - All Access! Live
Whitesnake - Made In England
Lita Ford - The Bitch Is Back, Live
Nightwish - Showtime, Storytime
Ted Nugent - Ultralive Ballisticrock
Hartmann - The Best Is Yet To Come
Great White - 30 Years, Live From The Sunset Strip
Stan Bush & Barrage - Stan Bush & Barrage (Rock Candy)
Honeymoon Suite - HMS, The Big Prize, Racing After Midnight (Rock Candy)
Alcatrazz - No Parole From Rock n Roll, Live Sentence – No Parole From Rock'N'Roll, Disturbing The Peace, Dangerous Games (Metal Mind)
Streets - Streets, Crimes In Mind (Rock Candy)
Various Titles - Swedish Metal Classics (EMI Digital Sweden)
Lou Gramm - Long Hard Look (Rock Candy)
2013 SONG OF THE YEAR
Harem Scarem - World Gone To Pieces
Classic melodic rock. Period. Brilliant, infectious and my most played song of 2013!
W.E.T. - Walk Away
Degreed - What If
Harem Scarem - Anarchy
Revolution Road - Shooting Star
W.E.T. - What You Want
7th Key - I Will Survive
Newman - Feel Her Again
Degreed - Blind Hearted
Revolution Road - Wings Of Hope
Royal Hunt - A Life To Die For
W.E.T. - Broken Wings
John Elefante - On My Way To The Sun
House of Shakira - Bending The Law
Find Me - Dancing To A Broken Heartbeat
Robin Beck - Wrecking Ball
Steve Lukather - Judgement Day
Degreed - Access Denied
House of Shakira - Pay To Play
Adriangale - The Black And Blue
The Theander Experience - Conception Of Life
7th heaven - We Live Life Young
N.O.W. - I'm Alive
Royal Hunt - One Minute Left To Live
Rage Of Angels - Over And Over
Eden's Curse - Unbreakable
Crashdiet - California
Degreed - Inside of Me
AOR - Secrets In The Shadows
Eden's Curse - Evil & Divine
Newman - Scar Of Love
John Elefante - This Is How The Story Goes
Faith Circus - Sunshine Radio
The Winery Dogs - Elevate
Tainted Nation - Never Promised You Anything
Steve Lukather - Do I Stand Alone
Bai Bang - Gonna Make It
Jesse Damon - Black Widow
Deep Purple - A Simple Song
Brett Walker - Reaching For The Stars
Covered Call - Lorainne
Gary Schutt - Half A World Away
Eden's Curse - Break The Silence
Rage Of Angels - See You Walking By
Faith Circus - Inside The Circus
The Theander Experience - Strange Nostalgia
Covered Call - When The Lights Are Out
Revolution Road - Pretending Hearts
Arc Angel - California Daze
Laneslide - Flying High
Dogface - Back On The Street
Fergie Frederiksen - When The Battle Is Over
Fergie Frederiksen - Price For Loving You
LaValle - Don't Cry
Reckless Love - Night On Fire
Dream Theater - The Looking Glass
The Poddles - Shut Up!
Coney Hatch - Revive
Covered Call - Hold On
Adgriangale - Could Have Been Me
Harem Scarem - Brighter Day
Seventh Key - The Only One
Heaven & Earth - A Day Like Today
Houston - I'm Coming Home
Revolution Road - Revolution Road
Adriangale - The World We Knew
Lost Weekend - Perfect
House of Shakira - Same Old Story
Dogface - Back On The Streets
Hardcore Superstar - Above The Law
Honorable Mentions: (in no particular order)
Steve Lukather - Creep Motel
The Winery Dogs - I'm No Angel
The Winery Dogs - The Other Side
The Winery Dogs - Not Hopeless
Angelica - Breaking My Heart
Angelica - Can't Stop Love
Angelica - Nothing Else You Can Break
Faith Circus - Turn Up The Band
Faith Circus - Restless Heart
Houston - Back To The Summer Of Love
Houston - Glory
Bombay Black - Helluva Time
Bombay Black - All The Same In The Dark
Bombay Black - Queen Of Denial
Bombay Black - Bad Boy
House of Shakira - Dopamin Junkie
House of Shakira - Two Things
House of Shakira - All You Want
Arc Angel - Harlequins Of Light
Adriangale - Believe
Adriangale - When I Said You'd Be The One
Black Star Riders - Kissin' The Ground
Black Star Riders - Bound For Glory
Black Star Riders - All Hell Breaks Loose
Burning Rain - Sweet Little Baby Thing
Burning Rain - My Lust Your Fate
Burning Rain - Our Time Is Gonna Come
Coney Hatch - Blown Away
Coney Hatch - Down & Dirty
Crashdiet - Cocaine Cowboys
Crashdiet - Change The World
Crashdiet - Got A Reason
De La Cruz - Turn It Up
De La Cruz - Legions On Love
Degreed - In For The Ride
Degreed - Black Cat
Degreed - Just Another Heartache
Diamond Dawn - Take Me Higher
Diamond Dawn - Cryin'
Diamond Dawn - The Hunter
Dream Theater - The Enemy Inside
Dream Theater - The Bigger Picture
Fate - If Not For The Devil
Fergie Frederiksen - Last Battle Of My War
Fergie Frederiksen - Candles In The Dark
Find Me - Road To Nowhere
Find Me - One Soul
Goo Goo Dolls - When The World Breaks Your Heart
Goo Goo Dolls - Caught In The Storm
Hardcore Superstar - C'mon And Love Me
Little River Band - Cuts Like A Diamond
Little River Band - Forever You Forever Me
Little River Band - The Lost And The Lonely
Magnus Karlsson's Freefall - Freefall
Magnus Karlsson's Freefall - Higher
Magnus Karlsson's Freefall - Heading Out
Magnus Karlsson's Freefall - On Fire
Code Of Silence - Dark Skies Over Babylon
Pink Cream 69 - Land Of Confusion
Pink Cream 69 - Wasted Years
Pink Cream 69 - The Tide
Place Vendome - The Power Of Music
Pretty Maids - The Mother Of All Lies
Pretty Maids - The Iceman
Pretty Maids - Motherland
Ra - Beautiful
Ra - Awake
Reckless Love - Bad Lovin'
Reckless Love - Edge of Our Dreams
Reckless Love - Dying To Live
Seventh Key - Lay It On The Line
Seventh Key - I See You There
Seventh Key - When Love Sets You Free
Sparklands - The Game
Starship feat. Mickey Thomas - It's Not The Same As Love
Starship feat. Mickey Thomas - Loveless Fascination
Starship feat. Mickey Thomas - What Did I Ever Do
Stryper - No More Hell To Pay
Stryper - The One
Stryper - Water Into Wine
The Poodles - Happily Ever After
The Poodles - Misery Loves Company
The Poodles - Viva Democracy
LaValle - Scared To Love
LaValle - Break Your Heart
7th heaven - Pages
W.E.T. - The Moment
W.E.T. - Learn To Love Again
W.E.T. - Rise Up
Royal Hunt - Hell Comes Down From Heaven
Vertical Horizon - You Never Let Me Down
Gary Schutt - A Million Miles An Hour
Heaven & Earth - Victorious
Heaven & Earth - No Money, No Love
Paris - Dancing On The Edge
Paris - South Of Love
Paris - America
Reece - Someone Beautiful
Human Fortress - Raided Land
Maxx Explosion - Devil's Locomotive
Maxx Explosion - Falling Away
Maxx Explosion - Don't Wanna Break
FM - Tough Love
FM - Only Foolin'
FM - Story Of My Life
Newman - Had Enough
Newman - When It Comes To Love
Brett Walker - What About You
Brett Walker - Better Than Goodbye
Jesse Damon - Garden Of Eve
Jesse Damon - A Chance For Us
Jesse Damon - Save Me
Guru - Straight To Your Heart
Tom Kiefer - Solid Ground
Tom Kiefer - It's Not Enough
Tom Kiefer - Cold Day In Hell
Tom Kiefer - Ain't That A Bitch
Eden's Curse - Symphony Of Sin
Eden's Curse - Rock Bottom
THE BEST MELODIC METAL SONG:
Dream Theater - The Enemy Inside
Magnus Karlsson - Free Fall
Tainted Nation - Dare You
Royal Hunt - A Bullet's Tale
Human Fortress - Child Of War
Death Dealer - Hammer Down
Timo Tolkki's Avalon - A World Without Us
Dream Theater - Surrender To Reason
Jorn - Traveller
Taberah - Burning In The Moonlight
THE BEST BALLAD:
Magnus Karlsson's Freefall - Stronger (feat. Tony Harnell)
Steve Lukather - Once Again
Robin Beck - I Swear The Nights
Heaven & Earth - I Don't Know What Love Is
W.E.T. - Still Believe
Steve Lukather - Right The Wrong
Fergie Frederiksen - How Many Roads
N.O.W. - Strong Enough
Robin Beck - Underneath
Seventh Key - What's Love Supposed To Be
Faith Circus - Tears You've Never Cried
Eden's Curse - Fallen From Grace
Bai Bang - How About Now
John Elefate - This Time
Jesse Damon - Save The World
2013 Best Artwork
1
2
3
04-07
08-11
12-15
16-20
2013 Best Promotional Videos
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xxx
xxx
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2013 Artist Awards
VOCALIST OF THE YEAR: Fergie Frederiksen (R.I.P.) & Brett Walker (R.I.P.)
Fergie and Brett win for Vocalists Of The Year not only for their superb albums delivered this year, but for their career spanning influence on the melodic music industry. Both were friends of mine and both will be dearly missed.
Honorable Mentions - Jeff Scott Soto (W.E.T), Harry Hess (Harem Scarem), Joe Retta (Heaven & Earth), Robin Ericsson (Degreed), Stefan Berggren (Revolution Road), Nikola Mijic (Eden's Curse), Jamie Rowe (Adriangale).
Past Winners:
2012 - Rick Springfield
2011 - Eric Martin
2010 - Marcie Free
2009 - John Elefante
2008 - Arnel Pineda
2007 - Mike Reno
2006 - Pekka Ansio Heino
2005 - Jorn Lande
2004 - Jeff Scott Soto
2003 - Harry Hess.
GUITARIST OF THE YEAR: Thorsten Koehne (Eden's Curse)
A guitarist who I think is underrated when it comes to handing out praise for their work, so hopefully this recognition will go some way to correcting that. His work on the latest Eden's Curse record is simply stunning as is his efforts on the previous albums. Impossible to replicate!
Honorable Mentions - Stuart Smith (Heaven & Earth), Steve Lukather, Mike Slamer (Seventh Key), Pete Lesperance (Harem Scarem), Magnus Karlsson (FreeFall), Vic Rivera (Adriangale), Stu Marshall (Death Dealer, Empires Of Eden) and Richie Kotzen (The Winery Dogs).
Past Winners:
2012 - Eddie Van Halen
2011 - Neal Schon
2010 - Steve Lukather
2009 - Erik Martensson
2008 - Doug Aldrich
2007 - Thorsten Koehne
2006 - Steve Lukather
2005 - Magnus Karlsson
DRUMMER OF THE YEAR: Mike Mangini (Dream Theater)
A sublime effort on the latest Dream Theater album, giving the band a renewed focus on songwriting and delivering a classic DT album with all the quality and feel of their best work.
Honorable Mentions - Pete Newdeck (Eden's Curse), Richie Onori (Heaven & Earth), Mike Portnoy (The Winery Dogs), Mats Ericsson (Degreed).
Past Winners:
2012 - Alex Van Halen
2011 - Pat Torpey
2010 - Jamie Borger
2009 - Steve West
2008 - The Drum Machine
2007 - Kelly Keagy
2006 - Simon Phillips
2005 - Daniel Flores.
BASSIST OF THE YEAR: Billy Sheehan (The Winery Dogs)
Because he's simply amazing!
Honorable mentions - Billy Greer (Seventh Key), Paul Logue (Eden's Curse), Chuck Wright (Heaven & Earth).
Past Winners:
2012 - Wolfgang Van Halen
2011 - Billy Sheehan
2010 - Nalle Pahlsson
2009 - Bruno Ravel
2008 - Matt Bissonette
2007 - Jack Blades
2006 - Marcel Jacob
THE 'ERIC RAGNO' KEYBOARDIST OF THE YEAR AWARD: Eric Ragno (Jesse Damon, Mecca, London, Redrum, Chasing Violets, Rockers For St. Jude)
Mr. Keyboards is now named the honourary title holder for future Keyboardist Of The Year Awards. So Eric, that means you have to let others have a turn now! Another awesome year for one of the best guys around.
Honorable mentions - Arlan Schierbaum (Heaven & Earth), Alessandro Del Vecchio (Revolution Road, Fergie Frederiksen, Silent Force, AOR, LaValle, Laneslide, Axe), Steve Williams (Eden's Curse).
Past Winners:
2012 - Alessandro Del Vecchio
2011 - Eric Ragno
2010 - CJ Vanston
2009 - Darren Wharton
2008 - Eric Ragno
2007 - Eric Ragno.
PRODUCER OF THE YEAR: Alessandro Del Vecchio (Fergie Frederiksen, Revolution Road, Paris, Charming Grace, Code Of Silence)
Moving from Keyboardist Of The Year in 2012 to Producer OTY in 2013. And 2014 looks no less busy for the Italian maestro who is putting his stamp on a number of high profile projects - all of which have come up winners so far!
Honorable mentions - Dave Jenkins (Heaven & Earth), Paul Logue (Eden's Curse, Code of Silence), Erik Martensson (W.E.T.), Mike Slamer (Seventh Key), CJ Vanston (Steve Lukather)
Past Winners:
2012 - Erik Martensson
2011 - Kevin Shirley
2010 - Steve Lukather, CJ Vanston, Steve MacMillan
2009 - Erik Martensson
2008 - Dennis Ward
2007 - Dennis Ward
2006 - Harry Hess & Pete Lesperance (Harem Scarem)
2005 - Dennis Ward
2004 - Fabrizio V.Zee Grossi
2003 - Tommy Denander.
2013 Rest In Peace
Lou Reed, George Kristy (White Widdow), Jan Kuehnemund (Vixen), Fernando Perugino Sr. (father of Frontiers Records president Serafino), Allen Lanier (Blue Oyster Cult), Peppi Marchello (The Good Rats), JJ Cale, Shaun Kirkpatrick (Bronz), Magnus Kristensson (Mister Kite), Petra Degelow (Bad Sister), Ray Manzarek (The Doors), Jeff Hanneman (Slayer), Michael Sundén (Swedish rock n roll manager for the likes of ColdSpell and others), Richie Havens, Chrissy Amphlett (The Divinyls), Storm Thorgerson (cover artist), Andy Johns (Producer), Peter Banks (Genesis), Clive Burr (Iron Maiden), Alvin Lee (Ten Years After).
Worst Of 2013
ALBUMS:
Bret Michaels - Jammin' With People I Paid A Lot Of Money Too
Boston - Life, Love & Hope
Sammy Hagar - Sammy Hagar & Friends
Thunderfuck & The Deadly Romantics - Starfucker
Tribute Albums - All Of Them! Down at the Whiskey: A Tribute to Mötley Crüe's Greatest Hits - 1981 - 2013; Still of the Night: A Millennium Tribute to Whitesnake; Fly Like An Eagle – An All-Star Tribute To Steve Miller Band; All-Start Tribute To The Who; All-Star Tribute To Supertramp.
Amaze Me - Guilty As Sin
Hedley - Wild Life
Berlin - Animal
Kingdom Come - Outlier
WORST ARTWORK:
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WORST PROMOTIONAL VIDEOS:
2013 WTF?
W. T. F!
Boston - underdone. That one word should sum that whole release up. My review was very critical, yet some others called for my 65% to be further reduced by tenfold! I did receive one single email in the album's defence - a lengthy letter outlining all the reasons why my review was too critical and the score too low, but nothing could ever change my mind there. I'm convinced it will be the final Boston release. Not even the cover art was worthy of the Boston name. Good one Tom!
Bret Michaels - if he's got any friends left after that last solo release I'd be surprised. I can't imagine anyone will ever be talked into future 'special guest' slots on any recording projects. Just get Poison recording again already!
FireFest - final fling indeed. Can't say I blame them. Busting your ass to put on a huge event like that with no financial backing or sponsorship and working within a finite pool of bands that folks will pay to see is a hard task. I should know! MRF4 will likely be the last one for a while also - not because it has/will lose money (not so) - but merely because the investment required to bring in bigger names is too much of a risk without corporate backing. Simple economics. It's a hell of a job to put together, so time for a year off.
I guess we know who won the battle of the Queensryche's!
7th heaven had their own brush with lead singer disease in the form of former Idol contestant Anthony Fedorov. They continue their search for a new long term frontman.
Yngwie Malmsteen issued his own version of history with his Relentless memoir, but the Anders Tengner written unofficial one is far better! www.amazon.com
Note to Jon Bon Jovi - you can run your corporation as you see fit, but don't expect fans to want to buy shares in your corp without question if your MVP isn't there - don't forget what made the corporation what it is today!
Is there a silly band name than State Cows? Please no more naming bands with farm animals.
I often get asked what my favourite albums of past years (before this site) were. So I am beginning to address that by filling in the gaps. These are pretty simple Top 30 lists of the best (or my favourite at least) albums of that particular year. It was really interesting going back over those years and remembering just what albums came out when and how they stack up against each other now...some 15-20 years later! Amazingly....not too much has changed as far as my tastes and opinions.
Presenting what I call my favourite albums of the year 1991...
I often get asked what my favourite albums of past years (before this site) were. So I am beginning to address that by filling in the gaps. These are pretty simple Top 30 lists of the best (or my favourite at least) albums of that particular year. It was really interesting going back over those years and remembering just what albums came out when and how they stack up against each other now...some 15-20 years later! Amazingly....not too much has changed as far as my tastes and opinions.
Presenting what I call my favourite albums of the year 1993...
Harem Scarem - Mood Swings
Coverdale Page - Coverdale Page
Meatloaf - Bat Out Of Hell 2
Winger - Pull
Aerosmith - Get A Grip
Crown Of Thorns - Crown Of Thorns
Rush - Counterparts
Poison - Native Tongue
Mark Free - Long Way From Love
Mothers Army - Mothers Army
Riverdogs - Bone
Blue Murder - Nothing But Trouble
Talisman - Genesis
Def Leppard - Retroactive
Henry Lee Summer - Slamdunk
Mr. Big - Bump Ahead
Jeff Paris - Lucky This Time
Vince Neil - Exposed
Robert Plant - Fate Of Nations
Joey C Jones & The Glory Hounds - Joey C Jones & The Glory Hounds
THE FINAL WORD. melodicrock.com'sESSENTIAL RELEASES (and final comments) OF 1999.
So here we are. Another year gone by and another new one just about underway.
I am going to cover a few things with this end of year coverage - starting with a list of my favourite releases and favourite songs of 1999.
Then some awards! A lighter look at what's been...
BEST ALBUMS: In Order
Steelhouse Lane - Slaves Of The New World
Nelson - Life
Fergie Frederiksen - Equilibrium
Jimi Jamison's Survivor - Empires
Westworld - Westworld
Rick Springfield - Karma (US Release)
Glenn Hughes - The Way It Is
Stranded - Long Way To Heaven
Von Groove - Test Of Faith
TNT - Transistor
Harlan Cage - Forbidden Colors
Henry Lee Summer - Smoke & Mirrors
Harem Scarem (Rubber) - Rubber
Jaded Heart - IV
Eddie Money - Ready Eddie
Sammy Hagar - Red Voodoo
Def Leppard - Euphoria
Johnny Lima - Shine On
Badlands - Dusk
Beggars & Thieves - The Grey Album
Emerald Rain - Age Of Innocence
Danny Danzi - Somewhere Lost in Time
Rick Price - Another Place
Alliance - Missing Piece
Mike & The Mechanics - M6
Ten - Spellbound
Fiore - Body Electric
Burning Rain - Burning Rain
Michael Morales - That's The Way
Dream Theaer - Metropolis Part 2
15 BEST SONGS: In Order
Steelhouse Lane - Seven Seas
Nelson - I Would If You Want Me To
Jimi Jamison's Survivor - Cry Tough
Def Leppard - Promises
Rick Springfield - Big Beautiful Friday Night
Steelhouse Lane - Slaves Of The New World
Nelson - Let's Talk About Me
Fergie Frederiksen - Equilibrium
Harlan Cage - Two Ships In The Night
Beggars & Thieves - Gypsy
Harem Scarem - Trip
Jaded Heart - When You Hear The Thunder
Toto - Caught In The Balance
Stranded - Only Human
TNT - Wide Awake
Honorable Mentions: (In No Order)
Steelhouse Lane - All I Believe In
Phoenix Down - Love Gone Wrong
Bob Catley - Where The Heart Is
Jaded Heart Take My Soul
Emerald Rain - Don't Tell The Rain
T'Pau - With A Little Luck
Robin McAuley - Every Little Thing
Harem Scarem - Stuck With You
Harem Scarem - Its Gotta Be
Jimi Jamison's Survivor - Empires
Jimi Jamison's Survivor - First Day Of Love
Phoenix Down - Walk With You
Alliance - I'd Give Anything
Michael Morales - Blood
Aerosmith Tribute - Sweet Emotion
Aerosmith Tribute - Rag Doll
Stranded - Coming Of Age
Stranded - Heart So Cold
John Elefante - If You Believe
John Elefante - The Stream
Tal Bachman - She's So High
Danny Danzi - I Want To Spend My Life With You
Harlan Cage - Hard Yellow Line
Rick Price - Baby It's You
King Of Hearts - Hold On To Love
TNT - No Such Thing
Ratt - We Don't Belong
Nelson - She Sheila
Def Lepaprd - Demolition Man
Badlands - Sun Red Sun
Badlands - Walking Attitude
Great White - In The Tradition
Eddie Money - Can't Go On
Eddie Money - Don't Say No Tonight
Henry Lee Summer - Earth To Suzi
Johnny Lima - Star
Johnny Lima - My Country 'Tis Of Thee
Johnny Lima - Only The Strong Survive
Sammy Hagar - The Love
Sammy Hagar - Right On Right
Glenn Hughes - You Kill Me
Amaze Me - Wonderland
Fergie Frederiksen - All For Love
Fergie Frederiksen - Mata Hari
Toto - Mad About You
Ten - Inside The Pyramid Of Light
Ten - We Rule The Night
Von Groove - Test Of Faith
Von Groove - It Should Have Been Me
Fiore - Fool Yourself
Fiore - The Only Way We'll Know
BRIGHTEST HOPES IN 2000.
The major question!! What will be the best albums of 2000?
Surely if Journey actually get an album recorded and released, it will be hard to beat.
Same goes for Damn Yankees! And speaking of Night Ranger (sort of), the other guys in the band are all planning releases, so they should register highly in the 2000 best of lists.
I have already heard the Danger Danger, so I can safely say that will be on the best of 2000 list. House Of Shakira hopefully will get their album done and signed. That's bound to be solid AOR, as is the new Kevin Chalfant/Josh Ramos project Two Fires. Jim Peterik's world Stage is classic AOR /Midwest pop rock at it's best and on a heavier note, if Impelliteri can get it together, their albums are always a highlight.
The Danny Vaughn album has huge potential, but does he want to record classic AOR or something a little more modern? Signs Of Life could be awesome, especially with Terry Brock back on deck.
Could Big Bad Wolf pull off a Steelhouse Lane and go from a pretty good debut to a sensational follow up? And how about the two Slamer projects - Steelhouse Lane 3 and Slamer/Thompson...
Could the new Heartland be as heavy and raw as the demo's played to me?
And the new Westworld album will surly come highly anticipated by all.
And don't forget two new albums from Danzi and Lima.
THE 1999 AWARDS!
A Tongue in cheek look at the year past...
Firstly (and sadly..) RIP: Bruce Fairbairn, Cozy Powell, Zero Records, Bareknuckle & the band Thunder.
Vocalist Of The Year: Keith Slack - for his work on Steelhouse Lane and on tour with Michael Schenker.
Worst Albums of the Year :
Lynch Mob, Zimmers Hole, Scorpions, British Rock Symphony (except for Jack and Tommy's tune...), Appetite For Reconstruction.
The 'Survivor' award for BAND NAMING RIGHTS:Saxon - for their sad recent dispute.
The 'Japanese Label' one last cash-in award: TIE! Bryan Adams for his horrible new 'Best Of Me' release, Harem Scarem (or Warner Japan) for 'Ballads' and Queen for the totally unnecessary 'Great Hits 3' release.
The Success In Replacement Vocalist Award:Journey
The Failure in Replacement Vocalist Award:Van Halen
The 'Kiss' Most Money For Least Work Award:Europe - for their upcoming 20 minute reunion gig!
The Biggest Packaging Screw-up:Europe (again) - for one re-release pressing of their Final Countdown single, missing a vitally placed letter 'O'.
The Passing Themselves Off As Something They're Not Award: TIE! Axel Rose for his contempt for fans calling Oh My God a new Guns N Roses single & George Lynch for releasing his rotten new album under the Lynch Mob banner.
The About Time Award:Sony Music for releasing the new Toto album in the US 3 months after it's international release.
The Just Release The Bloody Thing Award: TIE! Danger Danger (Return Of & Cockroach), Poison (Crack A Smile), John Sykes and Brian McDonald
The Welcome Back Award: TIE! Marcie Free, Mitch Malloy & Terry Brock.
The Go Away Award:Krokus
The Three Musketeers Award:Johnny Lima, Jimmy Lawrence & Danny Danzi.
The Bite The Hand That Feeds Award:Beggars & Thieves for announcing in an interview with German magazine 'Melodic Journey' that they hope the Internet will shut down all record labels 'like MTM'....(?!)
The Villan of The 90's:MTV Yep, not grunge or Kurt Cobain...MTV for single handedly deciding to pull the rug from under commercial hard rock and replace it over night. Shame Shame Shame.
The Positive Sign Award:VH1 For dedicating time and resources to fine music. Both in terms of developing shows (The List, Storytellers, Where Are The Now) and actually playing new video clips (from the bands that still bother to make them).
melodicrock.com's final word on the
best releases and recommended listening for the year 2000.
THE BEST ALBUM:
(Ranked In Order)
Danger Danger
- Return Of The Great Gildersleeves
Journey - Arrival (Japanese Version)
Millenium - Hourglass
Mitch Malloy - Shine
The Sign - Signs Of Life
Kharma - Wonderland
House Of Shakira - III
Raine - Peace
Rick Springfield - Alive
Westworld - Skin
Jim Peterik & World Stage - World Stage
Hugo - Time On Earth
Alfonzetti - Ready
Sammy Hagar - Ten 13
The VU - Phoenix Rising
Street Legal - Thunderdome
Two Fires - Two Fires
Ten - Babylon
Adriangale - Feel The Fire
Brad Gillis - Alligator
Vaughn - Soldiers & Sailors On Riverside
Dreamhunter - Kingdom Come
Higher Ground - Perfect Chaos
Newman - Dance In The Fire
David Coverdale - Into The Light
Melodica - Long Way From Home
Burning Rain - Pleasure To Burn
Kip Winger - Songs From The Ocean Floor
Marvelous 3 - Ready Sex Go
SR-71 - Now You See Inside
Honorable Mentions....(in no particular order)
Henry Lee Summer - Live
Teer - Teer
Paul Rodgers - Electric
Poison - Power To The People
Slash's Snakepit - Ain't Life Grand
Rob Rock - Rage Of Creation
T'Bell - Replay
Bon Jovi - Crush
Praying Mantis - Nowhere To Run
Halford - Resurrection
Heartland - As It Comes
Talk Of The Town - The Ways Of The World
Higher Ground - Perfect Chaos
Joe Lynn Turner - Holy Man
Alice Cooper - Brutal Planet
Britton - Alien Romper Room
Frontline - Right Attitude
Hair Of The Dog - Rise
Damned Nation - Grand Design
Attraction - Get Up And Shake
Change Of Heart - Continuum
Axel Rudi Pell - The Masquerade Ball
Van Halen Tribute - 2000
Union - Blue Room
101 South - 101 South
Crown Of Thorns - Destiny Unknown
Impellitteri - Crunch
Tribe Of Gypsies - III
John Norum - Slipped Into Tomorrow
THE BEST SONGS:
(Ranked In Order)
Journey - Higher Place
Danger Danger - Dead Drunk & Wasted
Millenium - Wheels Are Turning
Mitch Malloy - You Lift Me
Journey - Signs Of Life
Millenium - Power To Love
Raine - I Am
Mitch Malloy - When I Try
Westworld - Uneasy
Newman - Burned
Harem Scarem - Remember
Journey - To Be Alive Again
Kharma - Wonderland
The Sign - Crossed The Line
House Of Shakira - Unforgiven
The VU - Keys To The City
Hugo - This Love Song
The Sign - Forever Again
Kharma - Free Yourself
Jim Peterik w/ Dennis De Young - To Miss Somebody
Henry Lee Summer - My Turn Train (Live)
Kip Winger - Resurrection
Two Fires - Surrender
House Of Shakira - Miracle
The Sign - I'm Alive
Dreamhunter - Kingdom Come
Brad Gillis - Heart Shaped Wings
The Sign - The Wait
Millenium - Chasing Time
Sammy Hagar - Tropic Of Capricorn
Raine - Blinded
Danger Danger - I Do
Marvelous 3 - Little Head
Brad Gillis - Bigger Than Life
Vaughn - Is That All There Is?
Danger Danger - Grind
Jorn Lande - Edge Of The Blade
The VU - So Long
Ten - Give In This Time
Two Fires - River Of Destiny
Honorable Mentions....(in no order)
Millenium - Superstar
Millenium - Rocket Ride
Alfonzetti - Better Than Goodbye
Alfonzetti - Blue Hero
Sammy Hagar - A Deeper Kind Of Love
Sammy Hagar - Ten 13
SR-71 - Last Man On The Moon
SR-71 - What A Mess
Kharma - Cold As Ice
Firehouse - Unbelievable
Snakepit - One Mean Bone
Mitch Malloy - It's About Love
Westworld - Get A Life
David Coverdale - The River Song
David Coverdale - Wherever You May Go
Ten - Barricade
Ten - The Heat
Heartland - Eyes Open Wide
Heartland - Starring Down The Gun
Marvelous 3 - I Could Change
Jorn Lande - Starfire
T'Bell - Illusion Of Love
Britton - Who's Your Daddy?
Storyteller - Corridors Of Windows
Mars Electric - Someday
Melodica - Long Way From Home
Melodica - It's Not Enough
Bar 7 - 4 Leaf Clover
Bar 7 - Got A New Life
Glenn Hughes - The State I'm In
Higher Ground - Ghost In My Head
Higher Ground - Everlasting Love
UFO - Love Is Forever
House Of Shakira - In Your Head
House Of Shakira - Unspoken
House Of Shakira - Unforgiven
Raine - What I'd Rather
Raine - Never Alone
Dreamhunter - When Heaven Calls Your Name
Message - Beat Before The Heartbreak
Alice Cooper - Sanctuary
Dokken - Too High To Fly (Live)
Bon Jovi - It's My Life
Jim Peterik & World Stage - Zig Zag
Jim Peterik & World Stage - Between Two Fires
Jim Peterik & World Stage - To Miss Somebody
Two Fires - I Won't Give Up On Us
Kip Winger - Two Lovers Stand
Kip Winger - Only One Word
Frontline - Any Other Way
Hair Of The Dog - Five To Nine
Hair Of The Dog - You're The One
Damned Nation - Desperate Call
Damned Nation - Heart On The Run
Good Rats - Cover Of Night
Brad Gillis - Eyes
Brad Gillis - Circle Of Light
Von Groove - Blue Murder
Attraction - More Than You Know
Attraction - Things Were Better
Vaughn - Healing Hands
Vaughn - Shadowland
Change Of Heart - You Can't Hide
Change Of Heart - I Don't Wanna Be Lonely
Axel Rudi Pell - Voodoo Nights
Push - Waitin' In Line
Prisoner - Don't Wanna Waste
Pink Cream 69 - Seas Of Madness
Good Rats - Cover Of Night
Street Legal - Powertool
Union - No More
Union - Everything's Allright
Norway - One Night Alone
Norway - Sending A Prayer
101 South - Boat Out On The Water
101 South - She Walks On Water
John Norum - Waiting On You
Henry Lee Summer - Turn It Up (Live)
Harem Scarem - Why
Crown Of Thorns - Lonely Is The Rose
Crown Of Thorns - Heaven Tonight
Hugo - FINE
Hugo - Last One More Time
2000!
So 2000 has come and gone. It has been an interesting year to say the least, with plenty of melodic rock to talk of and plenty that also didn't happen.
To start my recap and commentary of the year just past, let's go back to my 1999 wrap up and see if my predictions for 2000 came true!
It started with me stating that if the Journey album actually gets released it will be hard to beat.
Well, for those that bought the Japanese release it should indeed feature highly, as it does with me. The rest of you will have to wait for April and your Best of 2001 lists.
As for the album itself, it was the best produced album of the year, but should have been with a budget of a quarter of a million dollars.
The US version will make it even better and I predict it will be THE album of 2001. House Of Shakira and Danger Danger both got their albums out finally - both well worth any wait and high on my personal favorites of the year. Chris Impelliteri released his new album, but then promptly dumped Rob Rock who went solo and produced an even better album.
Impellitteri is now shackled with original singer Graham Bonnet. Now that will be interesting.
Danny Vaughn went for the modern route of the classic melodic rock strains of Tyketto, but it was still a cool effort and the next one will hopefully be even more melodic. The Sign proved to be as good as expected, maybe even better, taking the more adventurous route. A classic in the making and I look forward to more.
Scheduled to be released in 2000 was a new Big Bad Wolf album. That never arrived and still has no ETA. But my hopes for it remain high for 2001.
Also due in 2000 was the much anticipated Mike Slamer / Chris Thompson project. Well at least that album is almost done, but don't hold your breath for a release. I have no idea when it might appear. As good as some of the tunes I have heard are, with the huge Steelhouse Lane style production, the style is just not what I was hoping for and I doubt what most other fans of these artists are looking for. The songs are not overly in an AOR vein.
As for a new Steelhouse Lane album - I won't place any money on betting when or if that will happen. For the sake of melodic rock - I hope it does - and this year!
Also in 1999 I made a comment regarding the upcoming Heartland album.
No, it wasn't as heavy or as raw as it could have been, but it was still the best effort since the debut. I would however, love to hear the band go either really raw and heavy, or soften up and record a pure AOR album.
Johnny Lima and Danny Danzi worked hard on their new albums, neither made it to the store shelves, but are high on my expectations for best of 2001.
Van Halen anyone? Well....2000 was certainly not their year. I hope 2001 will be.
OK, some general thoughts on the year that just was...
The year began with what was easily the worst experience of my website running career. The whole February Van Halen fiasco was a disaster after I was fed and believed some bullshit information. I still believe someone in the VH camp set me up, to gauge public reaction. That I don't think I will ever know for sure!
The fan reaction to the news wasn't pleasant, nor was some of the things written on various message boards. Fair enough to some of it, as the info was crap! But a few did cross the line. One in particular you will see when you read on!
Not to mention that my own message board was hacked into and destroyed! At least that forced through the upgrade of the current board, which is easily much better.
Things improved with my follow up reports, but the year ended without a single word from the band.
There was word of Eddie's health scare, which again was played down without any real public statement.
Listen to the fans guys - let's hear some news soon!
There was a few lawsuits going around, with Dennis De Young VS Styx and Lou Gramm VS EMI, not to mention Saxon VS Saxon....the big surprise of the year was Survivor VS Jimi Jamison being settled, only to lead into Survivor VS Survivor the TV show! House Of Lords VS Michael Guy was thankfully avoided thanks to some good will on both sides of the fence.
Tribute albums continued to flow freely...with more on the way, it seems 2001 will continue to feature some good and some crummy ones.
Quite a lot was said towards the end of the year about the quality of melodic rock. To be honest, I believe things are looking pretty damn good as far as most releases are concerned.
Of course there are always a few Dogs out there, that will always be the case as it has been since the dawn of time. I think the independent AOR labels are aware that fans want an increased production value and that will continue to improve.
As far as 2000, it was better than 1999, which was better than 1998, which was better....
I believe things will continue to get better and better, even though I do not believe that things will ever truly be mainstream again. Classic AOR I think is always going to be a cult thing. But as long as the labels we have now continue to put out strong product and continue to improve their product - and we support that - things can only improve.
At least there are some rockers out there that are willing to do this partly just for the love of it!
And believe me, if there are any dud releases; send the labels and artists a clear message by not buying it. That is the only way to getter better quality over time.
2001!
What's in store?
Releases to look out for:
If it ever gets here, the US release of Journey's Arrival will be huge, I am also expecting big things from the new Danny Danzi, Bob Catley, Dreamhunter, Von Groove, Hurricane & Johnny Lima albums.
The Van Halen album is my number one anticipated release. Eddie and Co know this has to be their best album in years, if not ever, so I am eager as hell to hear any of this. Can you imagine the value of an advance tape?!! Mike Tramp e-mailed me from Denmark to say his new record was almost done and he believes it could be his best yet, so I am hanging out to hear that - hopefully when he lands back home here March 1!
Another big solo record will be Terry Brock's upcoming release. It's more pure AOR than The Sign and should go down a treat. Snakes In Paradise are hard at work on making their best album ever, that's one to look for, along with new Diving For Pearls and Riverdogs releases!
After the sensational debut album from Stranded, their new album is highly anticipated. Jeff Scott Soto's long awaited return in Humanimal should be a killer - mid year is looking good for that.
Let's hope a Night Ranger record can be made, but if not, the march release of Kelly Keagy's solo masterpiece will be more than ample. Wait until you hear these songs!!
Other Night Ranger releases include Brad's cool album getting European release and Gary Moon's unreleased work is taking shape to be released Those are also very cool tunes.
There will be NO Damn Yankees release :(
A new Aerosmith album is upon us, but at this point I have lost much of my interest in the band. I really thought Nine Lives was a little below par.
If House Of Lords can get it together, they will be in the Top 5 for the year I am sure. Same goes with Magum's re-union.
As will Zebra and Dare - IF the albums ever get finished!!
One big question that would create a KILLER rock record - will Jack Blades and Neal Schon get together for a project?
Who won't make records this year?
I unfortunately doubt Survivor will get it together, nor will this line up of Styx - especially if the lawsuit rolls on, same with Foreigner.... Rick Springfield plans to write all year, but we won't see a studio album until 2002. We might get a new EFX soundtrack though.
Heaven are still trying to finish their new album, but who knows when that might get release...same goes for the Slamer / Thompson project. MTM may now not release it.
Mike Reno solo album anyone? Wouldn't place money on it...
And I heard something funny this week. The webmaster for Boston's site has apparently said that Tom Scholtz is HOPING for a 2001 release!! Oh my God...put me down for July 2002.
12 months from now, let's take another look back and see what happened!
The 2000 melodicrock AWARDS:
A sometimes serious (sometimes not) look at the year just past:
Firstly (and sadly..) RIP: Loverboy bass player Scott Smith, Benjamin Orr, Mike & The Mechanics vocalist Paul Young, Ian Dury, NYC drummer John Guido and Harem Scarem, UFO, Portrait Records, Fair Warning.
Vocalist Of The Year: Steve Augeri - for both his work on Journey's new album and on tour with the guys. This man deserves a lot of praise for filling an un-fillable void. Runner up - Jorn Lande for the awesome job on Millenium and his solo project and having the guts to work with Yngwie!
The Best Producer Award:Kevin Shirley for the 'spanking' sound of Journey's Arrival CD. Runner up - Ralph Santolla for Millenium and Teer & Roy Z for Rob Halford, Rob Rock & The Tribe Of Gypsies.
Worst Albums of the Year :
Yngwie Malmsteen, Southfork, The Liberators, Rock Superstars (crappy label's fault), Bigelf, John Farnham, 58, King Prawn.
The 'Survivor' award for BAND NAMING RIGHTS: TIE! Frankie Sullivan - winning his own award for suing the TV show for releasing a CD titled Survivor and Styx for their upcoming dispute.
The 'Japanese Label' one last cash-in award:Warner Bros. Japan for the second year running! Well done guys! They get this award for another year of Harem Scarem releases, with yet more to come!
Close runner up - Styx and REO Speedwagon for that awful effort on the Arch Allies release.
The 'Journey' Award for Successfully replacing a Vocalist:Van Halen - even though it hasn't been announced or confirmed!
The Failure in Replacement Vocalist Award:Impellitteri - for throwing out the great Rob Rock.
The 'Kiss' Award for Most Money Made For Least Amount Of Work:Tribute Albums - For those regulars that pop up on every tribute album released.
The Just Release The Bloody Thing Award:TIE! Journey (Arrival USA Version), Danger Danger (Cockroach), Slamer / Thompson and Dare (Belief), Wicked Alliance & Alias 2.
The Welcome Back Award:MULTIPLE TIE! House Of Lords, Magnum, Hardline, Tesla, Winger, Drive She Said, Oni Logan & Jeff Scott Soto.
The 'Krokus' Go Away Award:Michael Bolton
The Donald Trump Award: Goes to Greg Giuffria and his new attire. One hopes he will alter his appearance for the House Of Lords photo shoot!
The Worst Case Of Publicity Award:Rick Springfield for that unfortunate arrest.
The Worst Record Label Award:Blue Dolphin Records for having a courier standing by at the studio to pick up master tapes because the band had run over draconian deadlines.
The Beat The Bootleggers Award:Marcie Free for making old demo MP3s available from her site. Great job!
The 'Spinal Tap' Award:UFO for that fabulous UK tour and their added onstage antics.
The Best Fan Website Award:VHForums.com - That's my favourite place to cruise and listen to Van Halen fans debate everything and anything. Great site.
And last but not least!
Dickhead of the Year Award:Pazzo - Who the hell is Pazzo? I wish I knew, but that's the handle he goes by. He's a Van Halen fanatic that sent me several e-mails in the early stages of this year. They are so seriously funny, I had to share them with you. I can only hope any of you don't have the misfortune of crossing this clown's path.
E-Mail One: (On discovering there was no update as promised)
There isnt shit at your fuckin site. I thought you were full of shit now I know it. ha ha fuck you.
E-Mail Two: (On seeing the Van Halen update)
Andrew, Your site was just updated here in MA. so first I want to apologize to you for thinking you were full of shit. Second I want to apologize for the other stuff I said and I want to thank you for sending me mail when you didnt have to. The site didnt update until I went to "lots new in review" and then back to the frontpage. But whatever thats hindsight. Thanks again for your confidence and I'm sorry I blew it with my big mouth and (not that it matters to you ) I will continue to use your site above all others for music news.
paZZO
E-Mail Three: (On not liking the update!)
Hey Andrew there are a lot of people out there who think your full of shit!!! Your info better be legit or you better start wearing a disguise!!! lol or maybe a cup!!! ha ha
You will have to shut down your site if your the piece of shit they are saying you are!!!
I hope for your sake it's legit. Or maybe I don't after what you wrote to me!
see ya jerky boy
PAZZO
E-Mail Four:
You little piece of shit! Your a fraud and to think I was dumb enough to actually waist keystrokes mailing your pussy ass.
Your site is in trouble now as the major Van Halen and David lee Roth sites are calling you melodi CROCK.com. Your just trying to get extra play on your site by posting rumers. You have no sources asshole, your a punk and I'm the one laughing . Hang it up your done...
Last time you chump!
PAZZO
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