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Michael's Top 100 highest rated albums
| 1. Alice Cooper - Welcome to my nightmare | Rating: 9.5/10
"Welcome to My Nightmare" was the first solo album from Alice Cooper. Alice Cooper stopped his collaboration with the Alice Cooper band including Michael Bruce and Glen Buxton - despite hit singles like Schools Out and No More Mr. Nice Guy. Alice Cooper retained the name and hired Lou Reed's b....
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| 2. Vain - No Respect | Rating: 9/10
WOW - This probably is the most anticipated re-release I personally could wish for. Finally it's possible to get this gem that I (and many others) have been looking for since its release in 1989 on the Island Record Label.
Vain's debut album "No Respect" is a perfect example of a lethal combination of edgy Hard Rock with blistering guitars....
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| 3. The Quireboys - 100 % Live 2002 | Rating: 9/10
Singer Spike opens the album with "Good evening Wembley - We're the Quireboys and this is Rock 'N' Roll". Actually my review could have ended now, because the line "This is Rock 'N' Roll" encompasses everything that Quireboys and this live album is about.
Despite some line-up changes Quireboys still sound the same. Good time Rock 'n' Roll ....
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| 4. Tesla - Into the now | Rating: 9/10
Tesla spent more than two years writing and recording their comeback studio album "Into the Now", which is Tesla's first studio album since "Bust a Nut" released in 1994. Tesla still features all original members. "Into The Now" is an album with all the classic Tesla elements and yet incorporates new dimensions to Tesla's music.
The title....
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| 5. Shark Island - Law of the Order | Rating: 9/10
Remember Shark Island? I remember them from back in the day, where there was no Internet - various Rock magazines did mention this band that constantly played the strip and became the biggest L.A. band. There were some label issues that delayed the release of Shark Island's debut album "Law of the Order", but in 1989 Epic finally released the ....
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| 6. Nuclear Valdez - In a Minute all Could Change | Rating: 9/10
It started out as a romance with "I Am I". Out of the blue "In a minute all could change" was released and slowly I found myself falling in love. I knew had to purchase "Dream Another Dream" also, and now I must admit that it's more than an affair since I am falling deeply in love with the music of Nuclear Valdez.
Quoting from one of my f....
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| 7. Hardline - II | Rating: 9/10
Hardline's debut album from 1992 is a classic masterpiece. "Double Eclipse" featured the Gioeli brothers from the band Brunette teaming up with guitar hero Neal Schon to record one of the best Hard Rock records ever. The album was loaded with great songs, vocals and a sparkling Neal Schon, who released his inner beast from Journey.
Most ....
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| 8. Fate - Scratch ´N Sniff | Rating: 9/10
When this album came out in 1990 it blew me away. I had Fate's prior recordings, but this record is very different from Fate's earlier stuff.
"Scratch 'N Sniff" followed up the disappointing "Cruisin' for a Brusin'" and introduced a new singer Per Henriksen and young guitar ace Mattias "IA" Eklundh. Fate also changed style from AOR/Hard Ro....
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| 9. Enuff Z'nuff - Welcome to Blue Island | Rating: 9/10
"Welcome to Blue Island" is the eleventh album from Chicago Rockers Enuff Z'nuff.
Z Overture opens the disc. The song has been the opener at most Enuff Z'nuff shows for the past year. The track is probably the heaviest track EZN has ever written. I was a bit worried about how the song would transform in the studio since th....
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| 10. Enuff Z'nuff - Enuff Z´Nuff | Rating: 9/10
Enuff Z'Nuff was formed in Chicago suburb, Blue Island, by bass player Chip Z'Nuff and singer Donnie Vie. When listening to the self-titled debut album it's obvious that main songwriters Chip and Donnie had been writing tons of songs together since 1985 and picked some of the best material to feature on the debut album. The songwriting is cons....
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| 11. Vains of Jenna - The Art of Telling Lies | Rating: 8.5/10
You gotta love Vains of Jenna! Early on these Swedish youngsters moved to L.A. and basically lived the life of every 80's Rock star partying at the Rainbow, playing gigs at The Roxy, The Whisky etc. In 2006 Vains of Jenna released their brilliant debut album. Since a lot of water has run under the bridge and the follow....
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| 12. Thunder - Shooting at the Sun | Rating: 8.5/10
After being spilt up for 2 years England's Thunder is back - and what a comeback album I might add.
Especially the 2 first Thunder albums were truly amazing and "Shooting at the Sun" ranks among their finest work. The album is simply that good.
The album track by track:
Loser is a strong opener, which clarifies th....
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| 13. The Almighty - Soul Destruction | Rating: 8.5/10
"Soul Destruction" was the second studio album from The Almighty. Originated in Scotland the band took the world by storm with their dirty biker/Sleaze Rock. The bands visual image was raw personified by lead singer/rhythm guitarist Ricky Warwick, who was heavily tattooed and didn't exactly look the son-in-law a mother wanted. However, he was ....
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| 14. Pure Inc. - Pure Inc. | Rating: 8.5/10
Based in Switzerland Pure Inc. is a melting pot with members from Germany, Switzerland and members of Italian origin.
I consider myself an old hand in Hard Rock and it's quite rare that I get blown away by a debuting band. My introduction to Pure Inc. was by lucky accident - I attended a Doro show in Denmark on a cold November night. Pure ....
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| 15. Mike Tramp - Recovering the wasted years | Rating: 8.5/10
This is a great album.
What first stroke me were the guitars, which are not so dominating as in Mike's previous work. However the entire album's focus is on the songs itself. Really good songs that keep getting better and better.
The album opens with a Hammond organ, which starts the moody song "Falling Down". Perfect beginning of a ....
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| 16. Mike Tramp - Stand Your Ground | Rating: 8.5/10
"Stand your Ground" is a very telling title about Rock N' Roll survivor Mike Tramp. Tramp has always followed his dreams and stayed true to Rock N' Roll.The album follows the Danish only release "The Rock N Roll Circuz" from 2009. This album is recorded with the same line-up as the predecessor. The band is tight and sounds like a well-....
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| 17. Michael Monroe - Whatcha Want | Rating: 8.5/10
Michael Monroe is back with a new fantastic album to complement his legendary back catalogue with Hanoi Rocks. "Whatcha Want" contains 9 cover versions and 4 originals. However, Michael Monroe has succeeded in making a very consistent album, because his self-penned songs fit the record perfectly.
The cover versions on this record are unkno....
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| 18. Freak Kitchen - Move | Rating: 8.5/10
I have been playing this record non-stop since I received it.
Freak Kitchen has got a new rhythm section backing singer and guitarist Mattias Eklundh. The new guys Christer and Björn provide a solid and heavy fundament for Mattias' mellow singing. Freak Kitchen's crossover between the Heavy pounding music and Mattias' mellow singing is q....
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| 19. Zan Clan - We are Zan Clan, who the F**k are you??! | Rating: 8/10
Better late than never!
"We Are Zan Clan, Who The F**k Are You" was released in 2005 - first on the Swedish label GMR, later on Perris Records and finally the French label Bad Reputation, who are to blame for finally providing RevelationZ Magazine with a promotion copy of this album.
Zan Clan is named after its lead singer and former Sh....
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| 20. Whitesnake - Live...In the Shadow of the Blues | Rating: 8/10
Whitesnake is back with another compilation. After the recent live DVD and the "Silver Anniversary Collection" you tend to think; yet another live/compilation from Whitesnake!
"Live..In the Shadow of the Blues" is a quite interesting product though. It's a fresh double live album with 20 tracks, but more appealing it contains 4 brand new s....
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| 21. UFO - You are Here | Rating: 8/10
UFO is back with the follow up to "Sharks". This time we are saved of the usual feud between Mogg/Way and Michael Schenker. Guitar virtuoso Vinnie Moore has replaced Schenker and "You are Here" also welcomes another new member, namely drummer Jason Bonham.
"You are Here" also marks the return of Paul Raymond and his presence is heard for ....
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| 22. Thunder - Robert Johnson´s Tombstone | Rating: 8/10
In 1990 Thunder released their debut album "Backstreet Symphony". 16 years later the band still makes high quality records - the latest effort titled "Robert Johnson's Tombstone"
After releasing "Giving the Game Away" Thunder split up for 2 years, but re-united when they were offered the special guest spot at 2002's UK "Monsters of Rock" T....
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| 23. Thin Lizzy - Black Rose | Rating: 8/10
It is hard to pick the album that reveals Thin Lizzy´s best work because each album has something unique to add to the band's impressive catalogue. "Black Rose" is Thin Lizzy´s tenth album and definitely among the strongest Thin Lizzy albums.
So what unique elements does "Black Rose" contribute to the Thin Lizzy discography? The album was t....
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| 24. The Quireboys - Well Oiled | Rating: 8/10
After releasing the last original album in 1993, Quireboys was on hiatus till "This is Rock N Roll" was released in spring 2001. "Well Oiled" only marks the fourth studio album from Quireboys and the recipe is the vintage one. Guitars, bass, drums and piano added with a charismatic Rock 'n' Roll voice and lots of Whiskey dust.
The trefoil S....
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| 25. The Mob - The Mob | Rating: 8/10
The Mob has just earned its place among the best Hard Rock records of 2005. Reb Beach (Winger, Dokken, Whitesnake) is the main man behind this super group, who committed a super album.
Reb Beach has recruited his band mate in Whitesnake Timothy Drury on keyboards and Kelly Keagy of Night Ranger to bang the drums. The biggest surprise and de....
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| 26. The Erotics - 30 Seconds over You | Rating: 8/10
Last year The Erotics released their amazing mini album "Rubbish". This was their first European release and unquestionably an ear-opener for yours truly. The Erotics "Rubbish" was honored fifth best album of 2008. Released in 2007 "30 Seconds over You" is the predecessor to "Rubbish" and it's even better. The sound, the son....
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| 27. The Darkness - One Way Ticket To Hell and Back | Rating: 8/10
The always difficult album number 2!!
"One Way ticket to Hell and Back" is a very successful follower to Darkness' mega successful "Permission to Land". I even dare to say that though it lacks the same obvious hits as the debut, it is a better album. This album is far more consistent with no fillers and a better production from producer Roy....
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| 28. Talisman - Cats and Dogs | Rating: 8/10
After a detour under the synonymous "Humanimal", Talisman is back with full force. "Cats & Dogs" is their first album on Frontiers Records and the band sounds sparkling with ideas and musical capability.
The band consists of technical skilled musicians, which always makes a Talisman record an exhibition in superb vocals, great guitar riffs a....
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| 29. Tak Matsumoto Group - TMG 1 | Rating: 8/10
So who the hell is TMG, Tak Matsumoto Group? If you are Japanese and read this I apologize for the ignorant question. Tak Matsumoto has built a huge following in Japan as songwriter, guitarist and producer of the Japanese rock band, B'Z, who have sold over 80 million units in Japan alone, making them Japan's biggest selling band in history.
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| 30. Sixx: A.M. - The Heroin Diaries soundtrack | Rating: 8/10
The soundtrack to Nikki Sixx´s biography "The Heroin Diaries" is brought to you by Sixx: A.M. - a band featuring Nikki Sixx on bass, guitarist DJ Ashba and James Michael on vocals/guitar.
The book documents Nikki Sixx life from Christmas 1986 and a year ahead. Basically Sixx leads a miserable life. In spite of Sixx being at the top of his ....
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| 31. Scorpions - Humanity - Hour 1 | Rating: 8/10
"Humanity - Hour 1" is a concept record based on the classic "Terminator" theme of a civil war between humans and robots. The only hope of survival is to reclaim the humanity of mankind.
Desmond Child is co-author of the concept and overall the new Scorpions record has Desmond Child all over it. Desmond Child has produced the album with Ja....
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| 32. Sammy Hagar & the Wabo's - Live Hallelujah | Rating: 8/10
The song selection includes all aspects of Sammy's impressive career. As a huge fan of both Sammy's solo stuff and especially his achievement as lead singer in Van Halen I myself would have had a hard time picking the setlist since there is so many great songs to choose from. However, I do endorse the chosen setlist 95 percent. My only critici....
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| 33. Roxx Gang - Bodacious Ta Tas | Rating: 8/10
"Bodacious ta tas" is best of Roxx Gang. This compilation is spanning through the whole career of Roxx Gang - from their major label debut "Things You've Never Done Before" to their latest studio cd "Drinkin' TNT & Smokin' Dynamite".
Hot for Love kicks off this compilation just great. This is an up-tempo kick ass song that....
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| 34. Richie Kotzen - Get Up | Rating: 8/10
Richie Kotzen's career spans from joining Poison at the age of twenty and recording "Native Tongue" to playing fusion with Vertu and joining Mr. Big on their last album "Actual Size". In between Richie Kotzen released solo albums in various genres - ranging from Rock, soul and Blues.
Last year Richie Kotzen released the brilliant, but bump....
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| 35. Radio Earth - Gray matter | Rating: 8/10
Last year's Radio Earth album "No Signal" was among my favorite albums of that year. The follow up "Gray Matter" is now finished. The duo Chris Capozza and Bill Kortvely have done it again and made another excellent album.
"Gray Matter" is a bit different from "No Signal". Radio Earth still play guitar based Rock, but this time they have t....
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| 36. Pure Inc. - A New Days Dawn | Rating: 8/10
Pure Inc. managed to deliver the best debut album I heard in many years. "A New Days Dawn" is the always difficult album number two and again the Swiss rockers go straight to the core with hard pumping rock songs.
"A New Day's Dawn" is little bit mellower and more mature than the debut. The album is produced by Tommy Vetterli, who again pro....
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| 37. Paul Stanley - Live to Win | Rating: 8/10
Finally someone in the Kiss camp is being productive. The last Kiss album "Psycho Circus" was released back in 1998 and ever since Kiss has toured with the same old songs.
In 2004 Gene $immons released a solo album, which was horrible. Otherwise things have been real slow in that camp concentrating more on the business side than creating ne....
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| 38. Mötley Crüe - Carnival of Sins | Rating: 8/10
"Carnival of Sins" is a live recording taken from last year's infamous Mötley Crüe re-union Tour that just seemed to continue forever. Now the band rests and hopefully they will put out a new studio album - to maintain the reunion buzz they release "Carnival of Sins", which already has been out in the states.
Take a look at the setlist and ....
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| 39. MPG - Martie Peters Group | Rating: 8/10
Fellow countryman Martie Peters is back with his first solo album. After 10 years of fronting the excellent Hard Rock band Push, Martie Peters takes it a step further now pursuing a solo career. However, the players that surround Peters on this album mostly are well known ex-players of Push. The "MPG" album isn't an ego boost. Peters works wit....
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| 40. MPG - Road to Salvation | Rating: 8/10
Compared to MPG´s debut this follow up is more complete and consistent. Regardless of high expectations "Road to Salvation" is the best album one could have wished for and the diversity doesn't only make this album succeed but also exceed the expectations.
Guitarist Martin Slott has been co-writing several songs and the pairing of Martie P....
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| 41. Mother Love Bone - Apple | Rating: 8/10
Seattle based Mother Love Bone was among the forerunners of the Grunge wave. The band included guitarist Stone Gossard and bassist Jeff Ament, who after the tragic death of singer Andrew Wood formed Pearl Jam.
This is not a grunge CD, but rather a blend between 70's rock and Hard Rock spiced with Mother Love Bone's love for emotional songs....
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| 42. Mike Tramp - More to life than this | Rating: 8/10
It's only been 13 months since Mike Tramp released his last album, the critical acclaimed "Recovering the Wasted Years". The album was a strong effort with some really strong and personal lyrics, while the music was a bit softer than Mike's first solo album "Capricorn".
"More to Life Than This" has a more rocky side, in the vein of "Caprico....
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| 43. Michael Monroe - Not Fakin´ It | Rating: 8/10
After the sudden and tragic fall of Hanoi Rocks, Michael Monroe began to pick up the pieces and embarked on a solo career. Apart from 1987's "Nights are so Long", which only was released in Japan and Scandinavia, "Not Fakin' it" was Monroe's first worldwide solo album.
At the time Monroe was closely associated to Guns N' Roses and Axl Rose ....
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| 44. Love/Hate - Black out in the Red Room | Rating: 8/10
First released in 1990 on CBS "Black out in the Red Room" earned Love/Hate some great reviews and they established a loyal fan base that still follows Jizzy Pearl's solo career.
"Blackout in the Red Room" was the sparkling debut from Love/Hate and it encompasses everything a debut album should have. The lyrics are mostly about drinking and ....
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| 45. Lillian Axe - Live 2002 | Rating: 8/10
Lillian Axe is back in business and this year the band is scheduled to record a new album. While waiting for that album Lillian Axe has provided us with a strong reminder of what a strong band Lillian Axe still is. Ron Taylor and Steve Blaze are the only remaining members from the band that gave us incredible albums like "Love + War". Both Ste....
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| 46. L.A. Guns - L.A. Guns | Rating: 8/10
L.A. Guns was formed after guitar player Tracii Guns left what was to become Guns N´Roses. He recruited guitarist Mick Cripps and bass player Kelly Nickels from Faster Pussycat plus Singer Phil Lewis from Girl. Drummer Steve Riley later joined L.A. Guns after drumming for W.A.S.P.. Because Tracii Guns had been in Guns N´ Roses the band got a l....
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| 47. L.A. Guns - Waking the Dead | Rating: 8/10
Since the release of "Waking the Dead" I tried to get Spitfire Records to send RevelationZ Magazine a promotion copy for reviewing. However, lack of communication seems to be the keyword at Spitfire's offices, so I decided buy my copy - but the record was nowhere to be found. In March 2004 I was in the states and decided to look for the album,....
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| 48. L.A. Guns - Tales from the Strip | Rating: 8/10
L.A. Guns is one the most classic bands based in the Hollywood scene. "Tales from the Strip" is not a concept album, but it deals with L.A. Guns' long time affiliation with L.A.'s legendary rock scene located on the Sunset Strip. It Don't Mean Nothing strongly opens the album in vintage L.A. Guns vein. It has the same ....
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| 49. Hughes Turner Project - Live in Tokyo | Rating: 8/10
Fans of Glenn Hughes are flooded with releases. It's only been a month since the release of the compilation "Different Stages". While "Different Stages" only included previous released material this cd has a brand new Hughes Turner song called Against The Wall. The song follows the tradition of the Hughes Turner Project's (HTP....
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| 50. Heaven's Basement - Heaven's Basement | Rating: 8/10
Despite this being the debut EP from Heaven's Basement the band certainly managed to create a buzz. The band has been featured in Classic Rock Magazine and also two tunes from the EP have aired on the accompanied Classic Rock CD. England has always had a great tradition for Rock N' Roll but it's been a while since a band picked up....
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| 51. Hardcore Superstar - Hardcore Superstar | Rating: 8/10
How come I never checked this Swedish band out till now? BIG MISTAKE! Hardcore Superstar totally nail my style in music, namely attitude filled Sleazy Hard Rock.
Somehow this band has lots of integrity just by their look. These guys look like they live and breathe this style and only ignorant bands will postulate that look has nothing to do....
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| 52. Hanoi Rocks - Street Poetry | Rating: 8/10
The legendary band is back!
Ever since Hanoi Rocks returned to the scene with the amazing "12 shots on the Rocks" the band has sounded inspired and basically on fire.
"Street Poetry" is more consistent than the previous album "Another Hostile Takeover". The album is straight forward and doesn't deviate from the full blown Rock N´Roll pat....
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| 53. Forty Deuce - Nothing to Lose | Rating: 8/10
So far Forty Deuce has been a blank page - hopefully their debut album is going to change that fact!
Forty Deuce was formed in 2003 and led by Richie Kotzen who plays both guitar and sings. The other members are all unknown musicians, but they function as a tight rhythm section.
The group's music bridges modern sounding rock and old scho....
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| 54. Foreigner - Live in 05 | Rating: 8/10
Any Europeans ever been to the states have with guarantee heard Foreigner's music in bars and on radio. Foreigner is an American institution, but they have enjoyed success all over the world.
Foreigner is one of the best selling acts in the US with seven multi-platinum albums and records sales of more than 70 million records worldwide. Fore....
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| 55. Fate - 25 years The Best of Fate | Rating: 8/10
EMI Denmark has compiled a 19 track disc celebration of Fate titled "25 years The best of Fate". The disc covers all line ups of Fate including 2 brand new songs introducing Fate's third singer Dagfinn Joensen. During their career spanning 25 years Fate only released 5 albums. Especially the first 2 albums and "Scratch N' Sniff" m....
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| 56. Enuff Z'nuff - Favorites | Rating: 8/10
The last couple of years have been turbulent for Enuff Z'Nuff. "Favorites" puts a temporary stop for the fertilized co-operation among Donnie Vie and Chip Z'nuff.
11 albums justify the first Enuff Z'Nuff compilation ever. "Favorites" contains 19 tracks spanning through Enuff Z'Nuff's entire career. Enuff Z'Nuff have written so many great ....
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| 57. Donnie Vie - Just Enough! (European version) | Rating: 8/10
Donnie Vie is pursuing a solo career. Donnie was singer, songwriter and guitarist in critical acclaimed Enuff Z'Nuff. Donnie has probably written 9 out of my 10 all time favorite songs along with partner Chip Z'Nuff.
This is the European version of Donnie Vie's first solo album. Steen has already reviewed the di....
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| 58. Deep Purple - Burn | Rating: 8/10
"Burn" is the first album introducing the Mark 3 line up with David Coverdale on vocals and Glenn Hughes on bass. The newcomers are doing an excellent job replacing Ian Gillan and Roger Glover. Even though "Burn" does not feature the classic Deep Purple line up it is still a classic Deep Purple album. The main reason is the characteristic so....
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| 59. Deep Purple - Stormbringer | Rating: 8/10
Recorded and released in 1974 "Stormbringer" features the Deep Purple Mark III line-up consisting of David Coverdale (vocals), Glenn Hughes (vocals and bass), Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), Ian Paice (drums) and Jon Lord (keyboards). "Burn" was an excellent debut for the Mark III line-up, but on "Stormbringer" Coverdale and Hughes po....
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| 60. Damage Control - Damage Control | Rating: 8/10
Damage Control is a new British supergroup formed by guitarist Robin George and UFO bassist Pete Way. They later recruited former AC/DC drummer Chris Slade and Quireboys singer Spike to complete the line-up.
Singer Spike joined late in the process when most songs already were written, but he fits the band perfectly. I wonder what singer Rob....
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| 61. CrashDïet - Rest in Sleaze | Rating: 8/10
Straight out of the Swedish gutter CrashDïet takes the listener by surprise with their Sleazy Hard Rock. CrashDïet is inspired by the 80's Glam/Sleaze scene and influenced by pioneer bands like Ratt and Mötley Crüe.
Spelling Tikket with 2 k's and other words spelled like "Knokk" and "Chainz" underlines the Glam influences ....
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| 62. Cheap Trick - The Latest | Rating: 8/10
Cheap Trick is unique in many ways. Cheap Trick is one of the few bands still going strong in its original line-up and continues to offer the fans treats. Their latest effort Rockford (2006) was an up-beat record while this new record is a perfect blend of 3 minute power pop tunes and ballads. "The Latest" digs deeper than "Rockfo....
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| 63. Blackboard Jungle - Welcome to Blackboard Jungle | Rating: 8/10
New Jersey native's bassist Britt Pennella and singer Kenny Price both moved to L.A. in the mid 1980's to "make it".
After playing in various bands they founded Blackboard Jungle. In 1992 Blackboard Jungle made their debut with "I Like it a lot", which was produced by Faster Pussycat guitarist Brent Muscat. Blackboard Jungle toured the stat....
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| 64. Alice Cooper - Dragontown - Special edition | Rating: 8/10
I was a huge fan of the trilogy "Trash", "Hey Stoopid" and "The Last Temptation". The more brutal sounding "Brutal Planet" never got to me, but with "Dragontown" Alice Cooper is incorporating the best elements from the previous mentioned records.
"Dragontown" is continuing the story from "Brutal Planet". On "Brutal Planet" the worst place....
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| 65. $ign of 4 - Dancing with St. Peter | Rating: 8/10
Ever since my interview with Phil Mogg in August 2002 I have been looking forward to this album. Even though the reason for the interview was the latest UFO album Phil was very excited to mention this album several times.
Besides Phil Mogg $ign of 4 consists of guitarist Jeff Kollman, who also played on the Mogg/Way album "Chocolate Box" p....
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| 66. XYZ - Letter to God | Rating: 7.5/10
XYZ released their first album in 1989 entitled "XYZ". Don Dokken produced the album and the band was accused of sounding like Dokken. The follow up "Hungry" was released in 1991 and received 2 gold albums. Now 12 years later XYZ is finally about to release their third album. Vocalist Terry Ilous and drummer Paul Monroe are the only remaining ....
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| 67. Various Artists - A tribute to Enuff Z´Nuff | Rating: 7.5/10
CD Smash Records has put together a tribute to Chicago's pride Enuff Z'Nuff. 15 bands salute Enuff Z'nuff's unique crossover of Beatles Rock with pop and Hard Rock influences.
Dim sound like Enuff Z'nuff 2003 with John Monaco on vocals. New Thing sounds very alike the original, which of course is great and Dim have success....
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| 68. Van Halen - Fair Warning | Rating: 7.5/10
In my book Van Halen I and II will always be the ultimate David Lee Roth albums. "Women and Children First" was a great album with David Lee Roth as the center of the party. On Van Halen's fourth album Eddie Van Halen is reminding everyone why he is the greatest guitar player since Hendrix. "Fair Warning" is the last real Hard Rock album from ....
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| 69. Vains of Jenna - Lit Up/Let Down | Rating: 7.5/10
Don't give a Damn opens the awaited debut album from Rock's new hope Vains of Jenna. The song title is very meaning relating to these young Rock N' Roll rebels from Falkenberg Sweden. Personally I feel blessed that I twice in 2 years have discovered a band that hits bulls eye regarding my taste in music. First it was another S....
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| 70. UFO - Sharks | Rating: 7.5/10
UFO is back. The band released their first album in 1970 and achieved commercial success after recruiting Michael Schenker from Scorpions. In the 70's UFO wrote some classic albums like "Lights Out" and the live album "Strangers in the Night". The members strong personalities caused a lot of problems and the s....
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| 71. UFO - Walk on Water | Rating: 7.5/10
UFO had led a turbulent life after they achieved huge success in the late seventies with the classic line-up of Phil Mogg, Pete Way, Andy Parker, Pay Raymond and Michael Schenker. Schenker left the band after their biggest success - the classic live recording "Strangers in the Night".
UFO kept releasing albums with different line ups with....
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| 72. UFO - The Monkey Puzzle | Rating: 7.5/10
UFO follows the tradition by releasing an album every second year. "Sharks" (2002), "You are Here" (2004) and now "The Monkey Puzzle" released September 25th 2006.
In 2005 UFO also released a live CD/DVD "Showtime" and the band shows no sign of slowing down, but keeps being productive and creating high quality music.
The last effort "You....
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| 73. Tuff - Live in the U.K. | Rating: 7.5/10
This album was recorded on Tuff's UK tour with Shameless in October 2002.
The sound on the album is not a million-dollar production. It's a low budget recording, so you can always complain about the sound. However, a band like Tuff cannot bring a huge production to England, so the alternative is, that Tuff doesn't release this stuff - and....
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| 74. TNT - My Religion | Rating: 7.5/10
TNT is among the veterans of the Hard rock scene. In 1984 the Norway based band teamed up with American singer Tony Harnell.
After a turbulent career TNT reformed in original line-up and the teaser EP "Give Me A Sign", left the fans expecting a smashing album.
"My Religion" is TNT's new full-length album and it follows the tradition ....
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| 75. Thin Lizzy - Black Rose & Chinatown (Deluxe versions) | Rating: 7.5/10
"Black Rose" and "Chinatown" has been re-issued in Deluxe versions. Both Deluxe versions come with an extensive booklet giving insight to both albums and a bonus disc with rare unreleased material. "Black Rose" was the first Thin Lizzy album to feature guitarist Gary Moore. Gary Moore really wanted to put his signature on th....
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| 76. The Erotics - Rubbish | Rating: 7.5/10
The Erotics has been an underground name for years. Despite not getting the big break yet The Erotics has not been tempted to make more commercial music but continue to make their self proclaimed "Gutter Rock". "Rubbish" is my first Erotics experience and I fell for their catchy, sleazy Rock N' Roll. Singer Mike Trash sounds like....
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| 77. Spread Eagle - Spread Eagle | Rating: 7.5/10
Spread Eagle´s self titled album is reissued contemporary with the bands reunion and recent US tour.
I was one of the unlucky who never got this gem originally and therefore this reissue is welcomed with open arms. Compared to Spread Eagle's second album "Open to the Public" the first album has more swagger and snotty drive. Hot Sex....
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| 78. Saraya - Saraya | Rating: 7.5/10
In 1989 the world saw the debut release from Saraya. The band was named after female vocalist Sandi Saraya, who assembled a strong band with guitarist Tony Bruno, keyboard player Gregg Munier, bassist Gary Taylor and drummer Chuck Bonfante. The album has long been out of print till Bad Reputation re-released the album with bonus t....
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| 79. Richie Kotzen - Into the Black | Rating: 7.5/10
Richie Kotzen has been very productive with roughly one album release a year. His last solo album released 2 years ago "Get Up" was a consistent and long lasting album that I still play often. Last year Kotzen formed the band Forty Deuce and made a very electric record, which I named second best record of the year.
As the title indicates, R....
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| 80. Night Ranger - Midnight Madness | Rating: 7.5/10
Personally I wasn't too fond of this record when it came out, because I wasn't into AOR. However, one had to recognize there was something unique about Night Ranger, which justifies this record to be a classic.
Night Ranger was a borderline case of Hard Rock and AOR. The AOR touch was obvious with the massive keyboards. Night Ranger had lot....
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| 81. Nazareth - Razamanaz | Rating: 7.5/10
In the later years the word "Classic" has been watered down. However, Nazareth's "Razamanaz" has certainly earned the label "Classic" in the word's purest sense. Originally released in 1973 the album has remained its power and the songs still moves you, which makes it timeless. Prior to this album Nazareth had releas....
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| 82. Nasty Idols - The Swedish Sleaze Collection | Rating: 7.5/10
The 13 years of silence is broken. Nasty Idols is back with the first release on the Scandinavian market since the year 1993. "The Swedish Sleaze collection" is a best of CD with main emphasis on songs from "Cruel Intention" from 1991 and "Vicious" from 1993. There are also 3 tracks from "Heroes for Sale", which was recorded in 1995 but first ....
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| 83. Motörhead - Kiss of Death | Rating: 7.5/10
Motörhead is like the Duracell bunny when it comes to work ethics. Motörhead once again made a brand new album and shows no sign of retirement or slowing down.
"Kiss of Death" is packed with typical Motörhead boogie Rock N' Roll and yet this album offers a wide variety within the limits of Motörhead's music. The album shows Motörhead from t....
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| 84. Molly Hatchet - Locked and Loaded | Rating: 7.5/10
This performance salutes Molly Hatchet's 25-year career with inclusion of Bounty Hunter, Gator Country and Dreams I'll never see from their self-titled debut album onto tracks from the latest studio album "Kingdom of XII" from 2001.
The group was formed with 3 guitarists, and they have con....
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| 85. Love/Hate - Wasted in America | Rating: 7.5/10
"Wasted in America" was Love/Hate's second album and the follow up to the critical acclaimed debut "Black out in the Red Room". "Wasted in America" was released in 1992 and didn't earn Love/Hate the breakthrough in the US, but manifested them as one the most successful rock bands in the UK at the time.
"Wasted in America" doesn't have the s....
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| 86. L.A. Guns - Rips the Covers off | Rating: 7.5/10
Throughout their career L.A. Guns has never been afraid to include cover versions on their records. As the title refers, "Rips the Covers off" is a full album of cover versions.
Founding member Tracii Guns has left the band, but otherwise it's the same line-up as featured on "Waking the Dead". The bouncing album opener Rock 'n' Rol....
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| 87. Innocent Rosie - Bad Habit Romance | Rating: 7.5/10
In 2007 RevelationZ Magazine reviewed Innocent Rosie's first demo. After several line-up changes the band finally wrapped up their debut album on Swedmetal Records - released 2009. The band also played the prestigious Sweden Rock festival and got your truly hooked once again. Compared to the demo Innocent Rosie has moved away from....
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| 88. Hurricane - Take what you Want/Over the Edge/Slave to the thrill | Rating: 7.5/10
Hurricane literally was the baby brother of Quiet Riot. Hurricane guitarist Robert Sarzo and bassist Tony Cavazo are brothers to Quiet Riot guitarist Carlos Cavazo and bass player Rudy Sarzo. Robert Sarzo and Tony Cavazo were actually introduced to each other by Quiet Riot singer K....
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| 89. Hell N´ Diesel - Passion for Power | Rating: 7.5/10
Sweden keeps fostering great Sleaze/Glam/Hard Rock bands. Yours truly follows the scene very closely and somehow the name Hell N´Diesel suddenly popped up from nowhere on Smilodon Records´ release schedule.
For the Hell N´Diesel rookie is a short recap: The story of Hell n´Diesel dates back to 2004, where they released two EPs on a tiny l....
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| 90. Hardcore Superstar - Beg For It | Rating: 7.5/10
Hardcore Superstar has established themselves as European superstars after the self-titled album from 2005. "Beg for it" is the first album to feature former Crazy Lixx guitarist Vic Zino. Hardcore Superstar has refueled the batteries and once again sounds fresh with a "We'll show them" attitude. The album opens with an int....
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| 91. Hanoi Rocks - Another Hostile Takeover | Rating: 7.5/10
In 2002 legendary Hanoi Rocks fluttered the dovecotes announcing their comeback followed by the brilliant album "12 shots on the Rocks". The album was consistent, moving Hanoi Rocks in a more straight Hard Rock direction with an up-dated and very powerful sound.
The band returns in 2005 with "Another Hostile Takeover". Ironically "Another H....
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| 92. Gypsy Pistoleros - Wild, Beautiful, Damned | Rating: 7.5/10
"Wild, Beautiful, Damned" is the debut album from 4 English Amigos, who goes by the name Gypsy Pistoleros. While frontman Lee Pistolero was living in Spain he came up with the concept for the band.
As you probably can tell from the song titles Gypsy Pistoleros sings both in Spanish and English. According to themselves they are Renegade Gyp....
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| 93. Firehouse - Prime Time | Rating: 7.5/10
I think I speak for a lot of us, when I admit that after Firehouse's first 3 albums and the splendid "Good Acoustics" I kind of gave up on them. If you feel the same way "Prime Time" is definitely the album to get you back on track.
Prior to the last album "O2" Firehouse parted ways with original bass player Perry Richardson, who was repl....
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| 94. Every Mother's Nightmare - Live Songs from Somewhere | Rating: 7.5/10
Every Mother's Nightmare is one of those bands that I have kept hearing and reading about, but actually never listened to. As a self-proclaimed Hard Rock fan I am ashamed that this is my EMN debut. However, the band has taken me by a pleasant surprise with their unpretentious cocktail of Heavy Rock southern style.
The band sounds really go....
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| 95. Every Mother's Nightmare - Deeper Shade of Grey | Rating: 7.5/10
In the later years Every Mother's Nightmare (EMN) has become one of my favorite bands because they still make records that have something to offer the listener. EMN keep the banner flying with their mixture of tough southern rock with massive grooves.
On their later records EMN has become a bit mellower but still has kept the sparkle and g....
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| 96. Europe - Last Look at Eden | Rating: 7.5/10
Joey Tempest and the boys are back. Europe will always be hampered by the legacy of "The Final Countdown" but unlike many bands from the 80's Europe isn't stuck in the past. "Last Look at Eden" is a natural follow up to "Start from the Dark" and "Secret Society" namely contemporary Hard Rock characterized by Tempest's unique voice and Norum's ....
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| 97. Donnie Vie - Extra Strength | Rating: 7.5/10
How do you surpass the perfect record? The answer is quite simple; You cannot! Enuff Z'Nuff "Strength" is my all time favorite record and now singer Donnie Vie has re-recorded the entire album acoustic.
"Extra Strength" is a mission bound to fail...................however, Mr. Vie has created a great record, which pays tribute to the origin....
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| 98. Dokken - Hell to Pay | Rating: 7.5/10
The main conclusion about this album must be - Dokken is still rocking.
Even though George Lynch, who was a huge part of Dokken's sound, isn't with the band anymore as well as charismatic bass player Jeff Pilson - Dokken still sounds pretty much the same.
Barry Sparks is once again playing bass as he did on "Long Way Home". New axe sling....
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| 99. Dogpound - The Hellbum | Rating: 7.5/10
Steen has already reviewed this CD and after he played me some tunes I immediately gained interest in the band.
As much as I would enjoy calling Steen "Miffo" (see his review for explanation) I must agree that "The Hellbum" is a solid Hard Rock record. Steen's review is spot on and describes the record well....
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| 100. Dave Evans - A hell of a Night | Rating: 7.5/10
Dave Evans was AC/DC's vocalist before Bon Scott joined the band. This live recording is a tribute to the late Bon Scott recorded on February 19th 2002 - exactly on the 20th anniversary of his tragic death in London.
The first 4 songs are all songs that Dave Evans used to sing, when he was in AC/DC. The show opens with Can I Sit Ne....
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Daily Spotlight
Iced Earth - The Crucible of Man, Something Wicked Pt. 2
 Iced Earth led their ride into glory and metal immortality with the amazing power/thrash masterpiece, "Somet....
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Retro Reviews
(Steen)
Eternity X - Mind Games
 It's a mind game... The second full length album from Eternity X is a varied and challenging affair. The American band had delivered a highly ambitious project in the form of their debut ....
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(Steen)
Saviour Machine - Legend - Part I
 Dubbed as "The unofficial soundtrack to the end of the world" the Legend project gives new meaning to the term concept album. This ultimate study of end-times Biblical prophecy was originally planned ....
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