Another month, another playlist... No time for a long message tonight since there is only one hour till deadline as I'm writing this. Oh yeah, we will soon launch a new feature which will bring more info on the individual band pages so keep your eyes open for that. Probably also going to change the layout of the playlist pages soon, because they are getting pretty long. Haven't had time to start on the Community features I announced a while back, but it will happen somewhere in time... Many exciting new releases are coming soon so here is what I have been listening to lately:
Stream of Passion - Embrace The Storm
Everything Arjen Lucassen touches seems to turn out really special. This new project is no exception as he has found a batch of very talented and exciting musicians. Lead by Mexican singer Marcela Bovio (Wife on The Human Equation) this album delivers a mysterious, atmospheric and different metallic approach. I've been listening to it for a week now and I'm hooked.
Sieges Even - The Art Of Navigating By The Stars
I've only had this one for a week and you can believe me when I say that it takes more than that to grasp this album. Confused, Amazed, Annoyed, Asleep, Addicted and just plain baffled are some of the states I have found myself in at various times through the week while listening to this album. Too early to make a judgement yet. If you are interested in the direction then forget Sophisticated and Uneven. This one evolves from Steps and A Sense Of Change.
Bon Jovi - Bon Jovi
Inspired by Tommy's recent Bon Jovi ravings and our sing-alongs to Livin' on a Prayer among others, I have started my journey through Bon Jovi's albums. Things are looking bright and rocking.
Laos - We Want It
Going through the latest promo pack this one captured my attention from the first song. Immediately promising hard rock with a female singer who can wail. This is a re-release on the MTM Classix label.
Shakra - Fall
Another fine album from these heavy and hard rocking Swiss guys. I got hooked on
She's my Ecstasy after my first encounter and now I'm completely gone when I hear that song.
Allen Lande - The Battle
The two super vocalists unite for a truly awesome disc. Filled with earcatching and powerful tunes this album sounds like it will have a long life in my jukebox. These melodious and heavy rock songs pack a mighty punch. Highly recommended.
X Japan - Blue Blood
I keep finding little parts which seem to have inspired other bands. Now it sounds like Savatage had Endless Rain in the back of their heads when they wrote All That I Bleed. The piano intro is exactly the same! Anyway, this album from 1989 is filled with great songs ranging from speed metal to piano ballads, always with an emphasis on memorable melodies. Amazing band.
Place Vendome - Place Vendome
Michael Kiske has always been my kind of ear candy. Here he guests on a very melodic rock project that includes members of Pink Cream 69 and Vanden Plas. The result is very friendly, warm and cuddly and not at all the type of music that bites your head off.
Ray Wilson - Live and Acoustic 2001
I love it when people put convincing emotion into their singing. Ray Wilson is all emotion. His voice caught my ear on his 2003 album Change and this acoustic live album is a great showcase of his skills. The songs spread across his entire carreer and with a good selection of Genesis, Stiltskin, Cut, a few cover songs and a good selection of solo material, this live album is high on memorable moments and definitely something to search out. You can get it from the shop at Ray Wilson's
website.
Manowar - Hell On earth Part IV DVD
I'm almost through all the commentaries and getting ready for the full review. To put it shortly: If you're a Manowar fan you gotta have this. Everyone else: Take a look at this to see how a DVD should be made. This is a top of the line package that blows all other DVD releases I have seen far far away.
