2008

WALLS OF JERICHO
Redemption EP
Trustkill Records 2008

"Hardcore guitar attacks, wailing and intense vocals...all gone! At least for now. Walls of Jericho take a different road on their latest pet project, Redemption. The group dusts off their acoustic guitars and delivers five surprising melodic ballads ripe with sorrow and darkness. Vocalist Candace Kucsulain proves there's a soulful songstress beneath her rough exterior. Perhaps the Jericho learned a thing or two from thier producer Corey Taylor when he made the switch from Slipknot to Stone Sour. It's great to hear some versatility from such a pwoerful and heavy band."

--George Dionne

out of 5

GINA GERSHON
In Seach of Cleo
Takes the Biscuit 2007

"The actress turned singer-songwriter finds her debut disc filled with an array of alternative rock/pop songs and a few torch or cabaret type numbers as well.
The lead track is pure torch song. It’s a decent little way to open the disc. “Midnight Girl” is another good song, but the best track on this album has to be the bluesy stomp of “Marie”.

Sadly, while I’m sure there is an audience out there for this type of material, I am definitely not among that crowd. I found the rest of the songs rather ponderous and thunderously painful to listen to for review purposes.

I guess for me, I need a little more rock to go with the pop. Gershon is a good actress but I just can’t see her doing music full time if this album represents the best of the written material she has. She’s got a good voice, but you can’t make it on a good voice if there’s nothing to sing about."

-- Jay Roberts

out of 5

CRIMSON GLORY
Strange and Beautiful
Metal Mind Productions 2008

"Metal Mind Productions has done it again. They've reached far into the metal vaults to unearth some lost classics with the reissues of the Crimson Glory catalog. I would have loved to review all four, but I had to pick just one. Strange and Beautiful was the bands third album, and with most bands that have gotten that far, they chose to branch out from their, let's say unique progressive rock, and went with more of a commercial approach.

Gone were the silver masks, gone was the cosmic imagery. Crimson Glory got right down to basics on this one; sexually charged rock and roll. Not traditional rock and roll though. The bands still captures their unique edge, but just tries to appeal to a broader audience.

While "Strange and Beautiful," "Love and Dreams," and "In The Mood" really get the juices flowing, it's the tender ballad "Song for Angels" that steals the show. Get your copy today because this is a limited run of 2000.

--George Dionne

out of 5

BLACK TIDE
Light From Above
Interscope Records 2008

"Has power metal finally gone commercial here in the States? Black Tide come out with their axes on fire with their debut album. There's no lack of energy here. Black Tide can punch it upbeat and energetic, or dark and somber. The album's only weakness is the band's take on Metallica's "Hit the Lights." "Warriors of Time" is the albums highpoint.

--George Dionne

out of 5

LIONS SHARE
Emotional Coma
Locomotive Records 2007

"European heavy metal with shades of power metal thrown in for good measure. In-your-face vocals, double-kick drum, and evil riffage dominate from beginning to end. As good as they are, they don't quite have that 'thing' the distinguishes them from the other bands like them."

--George Dionne

out of 5

TO-MERA
Delusions
Candlelight Records 2008

"If there is such a genre as progressive gothic, then To-Mera must be leading the charge. Despite the soft and melodic tones of vocalist Julie Kiss, you can hear a lot of pain and heartache and sense just a little bit of evil. Each instrument is exploited to it's fullest potential within each 7+ minute track. Sometimes the instrumental sections go a bit long, but progressive geeks will eat it up. You have to respect a band that can incorporate swing music into one of their songs while still remaining heavy."

--George Dionne

out of 5

OURS
Mercy ...Dancing to the Death of an Imaginary Enemy
American Records 2008

"Ours' latest release proves you can't judge a CD by it's cover. It may be easy to dismiss the group as a heavy or death metal band based on the raw skull and death images. In fact, only the lyrics draw from the cover art. Ours is more of a dark and tortured version of U2. Emotional vocals and haunting melodies will draw you into this world of darkness. As the album nears the end, some of the emotion is a bit over dramatic, and becomes a little stale."

--George Dionne

out of 5

SIX
Between the Warning and the War
1605 Records 2008

"It's been four years since Six's blood-thirsty debut The Price of Faith. This time around the band abandons their nu-metal sound (thank God) for a straight up hardcore delivery. Frontman Lauren is still one angry, angry fellow. Not just vocally, but lyrically too. But his rage and pain is your reward. That reward being 13 tracks of pure metal intensity."

--George Dionne

out of 5

Review: Six - The Price of Faith (2004)

SAVING ABEL
S/T
Virgin Records 2008

"Saving Abel comes out swinging with the energetic rocker "New Tattoo," but shortly after that they turn into mid-tempo Creed. That's not to say that they don't craft well written songs or catchy melodies, but starting with the one and only powerful track leads you to expect one thing, when in reality you get another. Saving Abel does know how to craft emotionally charged and moving music, such as "18 Days," "Sailed Away," and "Out of My Face."

5 Questions with Saving Abel

--George Dionne

out of 5

ASIA
Phoenix
EMI 2008

"You know, a clever blurb such as, 'Asia rises up from the ashes with the reunited line-up' would probably work perfect here. However, that's what you would expect, and I suppose the band sets us reviewers up for that one too. Either way, the progressive melodic rock band is back with their all-star line-up after 25 years apart.

Phoenix is a true Asia affair with beautiful melodies courtesy of John Wetton, textured keyboards, crunchy but not over-powering guitars, and plenty of memorable grooves and singable lyrics. The two three-part medleys are where the group really flexes their musical muscle. If you've heard any of the Wetton/Downes albums over the years, then you'll know what to expect. Just add more prominent guitars.

--George Dionne

out of 5

Review: Wetton*Downes - Icon
Review: Wetton*Downes - Icon Acoustic
Review: Asia - Aria & Arena Special Editions

WILLIAM HART STRECKER
Smoke and Clouds
WHS Music 2007

"Strecker is a rock crooner that sings from the heart and from personal experiences. William has had his share of good times and bad times, and shares them with you through mid-tempo ballads and his journeyed yet enduring vocals."

--George Dionne

out of 5

IN FLIGHT RADIO
The Sound Inside
Last Broadcast Records 2008

"Angelic vocals over acoustic melodies is what makes The Sound Inside so enjoyable. Vocalist Peira is really a one-woman show with her beautiful melodies and commanding delivery. She reminds me of a blend of Natalie Merchant and Sarah McLaughlin. The song selection is sure to tug at your emotions. I still can't get "Yelling Up to the Sky" and "Just Walk Away" out of my head."

--George Dionne

out of 5

NEW FOUND GLORY
Hits
Geffen Records 2008

"Despite listening to the hundreds of CDs that come in here yearly, I do get a chance to listen to the radio. Usually to hear what's popular or new, even if it's not rock related. I don't want to be too much out of the loop. Like many of you, I have a diverse musical pallet. I even catch stuff on the radio that doesn't get sent here.

I've heard classics and new releases by the likes of Alan Jackson, Mariah Carey, Snoop Dog and others. When they come on the radio, I recognize them (or at least their sound). I couldn't recite the songs word for word, but you know what I mean.

I guess it's just plain sad that I didn't recognize one song on New Found Glory's Hits collection. Not a one. Oh, I am familiar with their emo sound however. You can't mistake that Fall Out Boy, Plain White T's, Simple Plan, Good Charlotte, etc...sound.

I guess you could argue since NFG is releasing a best of collection, then they must be some type of pioneer for that genre. God help us. I think the 'S' should be at the beginning of the album title."

--George Dionne

out of 5

HAALE
No Ceiling
Self-Released 2008

"No Ceiling is a journey into a dark and sometimes haunting realm. Middle-Eastern inspired rhythms give gypsy-like qualities to the musical output. It's not the kind of music you'd hear in your average everyday coffee shop. But late at night, when that coffee shop turns into that hip underground club, that's where you'll find Haale.

--George Dionne

out of 5

ALL CRAZY
Sex, Drugs, and Hip Rock
Self-Released 2007

"Rap style lyrics and rock music have never done it for me. I always believed the reason vocalists rap is because they can't carry a tune. It's the same reason they scream. However, All Crazy is the first group to prove me wrong.

The Philadelphia-based hip rockers churn our one hell of a debut. What makes this album such a stand out is the diversity. Vocalists Wild Bill and Big Soup trade off. While one raps, the other is belting out melodic grooves. It makes each songs chorus hook that much more captivating. Songs like "Scarface," "Wrong Time," "Walk Away," and "One Shot" are sure to burn in your cranium long after the CD ends.

In addition to the vocal stylings, the group mixes it up musically. Not only is there a real live backing band, but the gang infuses orchestral elements, smooth jazz brass, monster guitar riffs, and just about any other instrument you wouldn't expect. If hip-rock is the future, count me in.

The release could have done without the vocal intros that most rap CDs contain these days. I don't anyone cares what Duby thinks.

--George Dionne

out of 5

IRON MAIDEN
Live After Death DVD
UME 2008

"Iron Maiden in the studio and Iron Maiden live cannot be touched by any other metal band of their kind. However, Iron Maiden recorded live, is a completely different story. I think I'm the only reviewer saying this, but it's true. Recording the power and energy has not been the same as being there in person. Something always gets lost in the presentation.

Live After Death captures a 1985 tour stop at the Long Beach Arena where the group was in the middle of their 193 date Powerslave tour. This performance has previously been released on home video and as a live CD. Dickinson, who is normally on his game, shows sign of cracking right from the get go of "Aces High." Yes, Bruce tends to over-sing live, but this time, it just sounds off-kilter.

The stage is set up like egyptian ruins and of course matches the theme of the Powerslave album. The band is flawless with their respective instruments. The show was lit-up and shot well. The crowd was massive and out of control. Maiden deliver the goods hit wise; "2 Minutes to Midnight," "The Trooper," "Flight of Icarus," "Number of the Beast," and "Run to the Hills" are only a few of the 13 song set."

The bonus disc includes a documentary that features bonus concert footage. Two more Iron Maiden live sets are featured as well; Behind the Iron Curtain and Rock in Rio '85.

--George Dionne

out of 5

CHUCK STANTON PRESENTS:
VBW Attack! The Senior Discount Movie
Self-Released 2008

"Senior Discount is a punk rock band that doesn't take themselves too seriously and delivers some pretty cool rock tunes. I gave their 2006 album 4/5. I never got the chance to see them live so I jumped at the chance to view their latest DVD. Well...it's not that kind of DVD. You do get SORT OF an insight into the band, but not so much of a music related one. The best part of the DVD is the opening song performance. After that, it's a bunch of juvenile yahoos acting like Jackass rejects.

It's a shame too. The band is quite talented for still being on the local level, and they go and waste their time on such a stupid non-music project. Injecting enemas and defecating in your high school parking lot is not "rock and roll." I can't imagine anyone outside their circle of friends enjoying such a piece of shit (pun intended).

--George Dionne

ZERO out of 5

THOMPSON ROBINSON WILLIAMSON
Rivers of Paradise
Frontiers Records 2007

"The debut album from TRW features a superbly pedigreed trio of musicians that have recorded and played with notables such as Eric Clapton, Phil Collins, Steve Winwood and many more. The musicianship is without question. The members are big fans of classic rock and roll and the reverence they hold shines through.

The track “Gonna Be Some Changes” features some superb guitar work, “One Good Woman” holds up just fine under any critical scrutiny, and the song "Indiscretion” is a truly incredible recording. Sadly, for me at least, I found the rest of the material to be strictly adequate.

There was a bit of a flat feeling to tracks like “Only A Letter” and “Love Comes Calling.”I think that there is undoubtedly more to be heard from TRW, but right now, this just didn’t click for me fully."

-- Jay Roberts

out of 5

TRISHA YEARWOOD
Greatest Hits
MCA Nashville 2007

"The newest collection of one of country music’s brightest stars runs the gamut of her albums from first to last. All the big hits like “She’s In Love With The Boy”, “Wrong Side Of Memphis”, and “XXX’s And OOO’s (An American Girl}” are included in the 17 track set.

I was disappointed to see that they stuck to strictly the radio hits instead of including a couple of the more popular album cuts, but then again this is a hits collection and that normally implies radio success only. The two new cuts on the album “Just A Cup Of Coffee” and “Nothin’ To Lose” are both good songs. I wouldn’t necessarily included them among a best songs Yearwood has recorded, but they are good.

She has long been considered by this reviewer to be the premiere interpreter of other writer’s songs and I always lean towards her decision to record a song. This album, all in all, is a decent if relatively unspectacular package to encapsulate her career to date."

-- Jay Roberts

out of 5

CHANA ROTHMAN
We Can Rise
Oy!Hoo Records 2007

"The debut album from the folk slash singer-songwriter Chana Rothman finds the listener swept up in her quite obvious talent for melody. The lyrical content of the songs ranges from love to religion to social concerns. I’m not always a big fan of preachy type lyrics but when done right you can still hear an interesting viewpoint and be entertained musically. For the most part Rothman does the latter instead of the former.

I didn’t care for the plodding “One Stone” or the simply lacking “Draw A Circle” but I found myself really liking the rest of the album’s tracks. The song “Summer” is an outstanding combination of lyrics and music while “The Wind” has a slower paced delivery that echoes after the song ends. The very pointed “Walk A Mile” is probably the best example of the issue-oriented lyrics shining alongside with solid musicianship. In other words, a really good debut disc from a voice I’m sure we’ll hear more of in the future."

--Jay Roberts

out of 5

WINGER
Live DVD
Frontiers Records 2007

"A fantastic performance from a hair metal classic. Kip Winger gives such a great performance with his meaty vocals and connection with the audience. Not only does he handle bass duties, but he switches it up between piano and acoustic guitar as well. The individual band member’s solos are kind of boring, except for Reb Beach’s fiery guitar solos. The band as a whole never skips a beat, and delivers some of the most melodic backing vocals. Each and every Winger hit is included and sound great. Even the new material sounds good.

It’s not hard to tell that Kip has improved vastly as a songwriter. The material is far more thought-provoking. It was nice to see that the band can have a good laugh at themselves. During their performance of “Seventeen,” the group changes the lyrics in the third chorus to ‘she’s only thirty-five.’ Has it been that long? I though the group should have closed with this one, but they chose their first hit “Madeline.” A definite ‘must have’ for any fan of the hair metal era or fans of great melodic rock in general."

--George Dionne

out of 5

THE LIMIT
Reinventing the Sun
The Limit LLC 2007

"On their latest album, The Limit decides to mix things up a little bit, in comparison to their 2005 EP. Whereas the EP was a four song dedication to feel-good rock and roll, Reinventing the Sun is more of a throwback to the fuzzy grooves of the seventies mixed with the mundane sounds of 90s grunge. The EP had me cranking the volume up, but this album had me advancing quickly to the next track. It just seemed to go on and on. The production is a bit more diminished as well. I had high hopes for The Limit, but somewhere along the way they took a detour."

--George Dionne

out of 5

KAMELOT
Ghost Opera
SPV Records 2007

"Kamelot is one of those European power metal bands that tends to get overlooked in comparison to their contemporaries Helloween and Gamma Ray (probably doesn’t help they’re all on the same label either). However, every album I have heard from Kamelot has been top-notch power metal at its best. Ghost Opera takes it to the next level.

Yes, employing orchestral elements seems a bit overdone these days, but mixed with Kamelot’s dark and powerful delivery, it truly enhances the texture of the album. Ghost Opera is so full of passion and great storytelling that it can easily be compared to a Hollywood movie blockbuster. I would venture to say that Ghost Opera is a dark, haunting movie (worthy of a creepy Johnny Depp performance) confined to audio."

--George Dionne

out of 5

DAVID BOWIE
Buddha of Suburbia
Virgin/EMI Music 2007

"Released for the first time on CD, Buddha of Suburbia is a collection of music that Bowie composed for a famed British play around 1993. The title track is perhaps the most catchy and most memorable. Bowie experiments with effects heavy vocals on “Sex and the Church”. Other vocal tracks range from mellow to emotional. There are a few instrumental tracks that take away from the concept of an album, but in the context of listening to it as a play, it all makes sense. You’d probably have a better appreciation for it if you saw the play, but either way, it’s pure David Bowie from beginning to end."

--George Dionne

out of 5

COLLECTIVE SOUL
Afterwards
El Music Group 2007

"I wanted to give Collective Soul’s latest album a feature review, but I just couldn’t find enough to say about it. I was a thrilled with the outcome of their last album Youth, but found out quickly that Afterwards falls below the standard that album. It’s not necessarily bad, but it’s just not that interesting. The group for goes up-tempo tracks from slow, adult-contemporary material.

However, the group doesn’t falter on the songwriting front. The only tracks that really grabbed me were the guitar heavy opener “New Vibration” and the album’s first single “Hollywood” (which you are probably familiar with as the theme to this year’s American Idol auditions). I’d like to hear Collective Soul kick up the rock quotient a little built instead of treading the safe waters of adult-oriented pop."

--George Dionne

out of 5

Review: Collective Soul - From the Ground Up (05)
Review: Collective Soul - Youth (04)

KATAGORY V
Hymns of Dissension
Nightmare Records 2007

"The group refers to themselves as progressive metal, but they are so much more than that. Hymns of Dissension mixes the best of classic metal with the best of progressive metal. It’s almost if you’re combining classic Queensryche with current Queensryche. Katagory V know just how to produce the most powerful, guitar-heavy, vocal driven metal. It’s a damn shame they just lost their singer and guitarist."

--George Dionne

out of 5

Review: Kategory V - The Rising Anger (06)

GEORGE THOROGOOD & THE DESTROYERS
Bad to the Bone [25th Anniversary Edition]
Capitol/EMI Music 2007

"Has it been 25 years already? Damn! Despite several albums prior to this one, Bad to the Bone is the one that put Thorogood and company on the map. It was an unlikely success too because the group really defied what was hot at the time. No one else was delivering dirty bar band blues like Thorogood. No one else was crafting two and three chord progressions that made you want to pound down the beers and fight either. The album’s title track is legendary, but the album is so much more than that.

“Back to Wentzille” is classic up-beat blues, while “Blue Highway” is the best of the slow jams. Each track contains the heart and soul of the blues while telling a mini-story in-between. For this release, the group includes re-recorded versions of six cuts from the album. This was not a good move. While the group sounds the same for the most part, they also sound a lot older and slower. Most of the six tracks come off comparable to the originals except the one song you want to, “Bad to the Bone.” What a crappy arrangement and delivery! The album is a classic, skip over the added material."

--George Dionne

out of 5

Review: George Thorogood - The Hard Stuff (06)

GODHEAD
The Shadow Line
Cement Shoes Records 2006

"Godhead’s most recent disc finds the band in peak form. The lead track “Trapped In Your Lies” is a real attention grabber. It’s a classy and classic rocker for the future to come. You’ll also want to check out “Once Before”. The song is another fantastic example of what makes Godhead so good. The band has a superb handle on how to approach their songwriting and it shows throughout the album because other than “Another Day” which I didn’t think much of, the musicianship and lyrical content is top-notch. They can rock with the best and then bring out the more moderate tempo for tracks like “Your End Of Days”.
Godhead is a fantastic live act and The Shadow Line CD lives up to the standard set by their performances."

-- Jay Roberts

out of 5