Archived Reviews: # A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Reviews Index
Inside Out/SPV 2003
Review by 
14 July 2003
Their last album “Snow”(2002) was a magnificent piece of progpower music and it was in the top-5 of my best of list of 2002. Then when I interviewed Neal Morse about that album he “hinted” that he would leave the band. A few weeks later I received a press release which stated that the inevitable had happened; Neal had left the band and joined the Bible club. So, one of my favourite progbands lost their dominant musician/composer; now what???
Almost a year later the Beard release a new album and I am happy (and relieved) to say that this Spock’s Beard is still a very good progrock band. Nick D’Virgillio turns out to be a great vocalist(in fact I knew that already) and “Feel Euphoria” has become a real band album as all members contributed compositions for this album. For the total sound I would describe the “new” Spock’s Beard as less Beatles, more Genesis, more rocksongs and last but not least more huitarsolos.
What about the songs then? “Onomatopoeia”(come again??) is a hard, rocky opener and really rocks you of your socks, while the titletrack is a risky, experimental song, even with computer loops.
The two ballads “Shining Star” and “Ghosts of Autumn” are simply beautiful and “East Of Eden, West Of Memphis” is again a true rocksong.
The highlight is the epic, monumental track “A Guy Named Sid” (20 minutes long); this is the megapiece of the album. Full of powergrooves a la King Crimson, hard rock passages and a cappella choir parts; just listen, enjoy and shiver.
Spock’s Beard is “back” and maybe they will even reach the same musical level as in the past with Neal Morse…
I am looking forward to their live gigs in Europe.
www.spocksbeard.com
Indie 2001
01-12-11
Do they come from the land down under? Well, hold on to your hats kiddies, as we´re not in Kansas anymore. No, these lads are 'living in Oz' and do play a contagious kind of rock´n´roll. Formerly known as 40 Alexander, Alexander Avenue and a bunch of other band names. Are they finally back to "Square One"?
Not sure what´s going on in Australia. But one thing´s for sure though. Everything does not sound like Acca Dacca (AC/DC) anymore. This is smooth, modern and most of all catchy rock. Rather in the style of 'Taxiride' with a touch of 70´s Glam than raunchy hardrock.
This is a 6-track demo with mostly acoustic versions of their songs. But it´s actually the electric version of "Rock N´ Roll Hysteria" which grabs my attention. This is a lovely little tune, with a chorus that goes straight to your heart. And how can you not love a song with a verse that goes "Hello, hello, c´mon , c´mon, I wanna hear that yeah, yeah, yeah" The man who wrote this must be a freakin´ genius. Seriously, this is darn catchy and do sound very retro and fresh at the same time. One word sums it up pretty good... Hit! From the acoustic tracks are both "Dizzy" and "Free Flow Feeling" really nice. You can get in contact with the band at: rising@unite.com.au
Northwest Records 2002
Review by 
25 January 2002
The title track of this five track CD has to be one of the most instant and catchiest tunes I've heard in a long time, and the fact that it comes from an unsigned band is something that will change soon - mark my words. These Australian power pop rockers have a highly refreshing sound that reminds me a bit of the fellow countrymen Taxiride mixed with AOR twins Nelson, spiced with a big portion of youthful energy. Great melodies, great harmonies and good production make this one of the most promising demos I've heard lately.
This CD contains two electric tracks, the aforementioned "Love Struck Melody" and "Lazy", which isn't quite as immediate but a decent track nevertheless. The remaining three tracks are acoustic, but show a lot of promise, especially the awsome and highly melodic "Always With You".
Why this band hasn't been picked up yet is beyond me, because we're not only talking about a highly impressive melodic rock band, but a very potential mainstream pop rock act, with a potential number one single (or two) I might add! Gotta wonder, are the A&R people deaf, dumb or both, down there in Australia? Okay, no need to answer...
www.squareonemusic.com
AFM Records 2002
02-02-15
Are you ready for a metal crusade? Well, bring your sword and shield to the battlefield as German Metal band SQUEALER, is back with their third release. The majority of the lyrics from 'Under The Cross' is actually concentrating on the topics of faith and religion. However, these guys are no religious wannabes!
Instead you'll get a lesson in blind fanaticism, mass murderer, false prophet's and other weirdo's. The music is as always, a mixture of typical German Power Metal and Thrash. Heavier than their previous albums, but still filled with catchy melodies and melodic harmonies.
Recorded by Tommy Newton /Helloween) and mixed by Andy Sneap (Machine Head, Nevermore) & Mikko Karmila (HIM, Stratovarius) this is a solid production. "Thinking Allowed" follows the German tradition of fast, yet melodic Power Metal. This could easily have been from one of the earlier albums with Running Wild, with fitting vocals by Henner, I may add. Opener "Painful Lust" could actually be the heaviest song they've ever recorded. Grinding guitars by Michael Scheil & Lars Döring makes this a nice Thrash anthem. "My Last Goodbye" shows yet another side of Squealer, as it's a melodic rocker a-la Pink Cream 69 or Axxis. While "Rules Of Life" is a excellent mid-tempo ballad in the same style. To none's (?) surprise is "Fade Away" yet another side of the coin! As it's a lovely and very melodic Goth-Metal song with Type O' Negative vocals to match. I do enjoy all these various style even if the overall sound is Power Metal. By the way, drums on the album are played by... Yep! Take a wild guess... Mike "Play For Pay" Terrana. "Not bad, but neither anything new under the sun" would be the final verdict for "Under The Cross".
www.afm-records.de
SR-71:
" Now You See Inside"
8
BMG 2000 These guys are selling shitloads of albums in the States and along with Marvelous 3 they've become my new favorites. There is one song here that is even co-written by Butch Walker. Actually it's the best song on the album, "Right Now" (didn't some old farts have a song by the same name:)), also featured in the movie "Dude, Where's My Car", a comedy starring "Kelso" from "That 70's Show". It really makes my feet tap and brings a huge smile on my face.
People might think that this is something like Blink 182 or some new punk stuff that's around but to me this is more like pop-metal or something like that, can't really say. At least it's fun to listen to. This is not as strong an album altogether as the Marvelous 3 album but M3 are more experienced. Give these guys few more years and they will rock the whole world pretty well.
This gets 8 for not being a fully "ready" album yet in my opinion. It's riding too much on the tails of couple of stronger songs. The package isn't ready yet. [Ed: Well, "8" is a pretty good rating. What the heck are you going on about?]
Review by 
01-04-24
Indie 2001
Review by Endre "Bandi" Hübner
16 January 2002
Michael Staertow's first solo attempt is a very diverse album, at best it's modern, hard edged, sleazy rock ala "Dancing On Coals" era Bang Tango and catchy pop-rock ala Mr. Big; at worst it's 90's sounding, alternative rock with punk(?) influences. Michael played most of the instruments and sang all through the album; only the drums and some of the bass tracks were recorded by guest musicians. He did a rather decent job with the instruments, especially as far as the guitar work goes, but the vocals seem to be the weakest link here, some of the songs cry out for a well-trained throat.
The album starts out with the modern sounding "Wastin' My Life Away", an up-tempo rocker, nothing special, then followed by the worst moment of the album, "Elephant" a grungy, punk-rocker with horrible vocal melodies. But if you got through it, the best tracks follow. "River of Sin" is a melodic rocker that recalls Night Ranger or the recent Brad Gillis solo album and the following "Promise" is one of the best pop-rockers of the album. It resembles to Extreme's "Tragic Comic" both in the arrangement, the guitar work, and the lead vocal melodies of the refrain, but it's not a rip-off by any means, just some similarities.
"Hydrostatic" is too 90s and psychedelic for me again but the acoustic, instrumental "0797" washes the bad taste away, and "Walk Away" is in the same vein as "Promise", a good, mellow, pop-rocker with acoustic arrangement. "Love For You" is the next really good melodic rocker while "Cry My Name" brings the psychedelic mood back, and "Honestly" carries on with it, yet in a bit more melodic and mid-tempo way. Altogether it's a good album with very good production, especially taking into account that it's an independent effort but setting clear musical directions and having a well- trained singer would do good the next time. As it is now it may be too 90s psycho for AOR fans, and too happy pop-rock for grunge lovers... www.michaelstaertow.com
Word/Curb/Warner Bros. 2003
Review by
13 June 2003
Kristy Starling rose to fame in The Today Show's talent contest last year. Although she didn't win (she came in second), she impressed the right people, including producer David Foster, and got herself a major deal with Word/Warner Bros. Christian.
Kristy's first album is a promising start. She's an excellent singer with a colourful voice, but somehow the material picked for her is a bit on the "safe" side. The first two tracks won't give away that, they're quite good modern pop/rock tracks, good melodies and enough bite to appeal to the more open-minded rockers as well. "Broken" takes her to another direction, I guess the word "Diva" might tell you enough - big balladry in the vein of Celine Dion. "There Will Come A Day" is one of the "safe" tracks, already tried and tested by Faith Hill, while "Something More" is pompous another Diva-ballad. The acoustic "You Love Me Like That" sounds much better, without the unnecessary glitter and polish.
"All For You" is a nice change of pace, a good uptempo pop track. The Richard Marx-penned "To Where You Are" is another safe choice, a big hit for Josh Groban last year. A beautiful track though and Kristy's performance is quite awesome indeed. Interesting to notice how easily the lyrics can be interpreted differently, if the artist happens to be a christian one. "Must Have Been Angels" is a rather average pop track, but Kristy's vocals do lift it to the next level. The final track is yet another tried and tested one, LeAnn Rimes' big hit "I Need You". I prefer the Rimes' version, Kristy's one seems to be lacking energy. What's positive is the fact that it does NOT have the "na-na-na's" of the Rimes' version, which were blatantly stolen from the theme song of Dawson's Creek.
For a new artist like Kristy, it would be important to establish her own identity. With songs that are strongly associated with other artists, I don't think it's going to happen easily. On the other hand, maybe it's easier to get airplay if at least the tune is well-known...
www.kristystarling.com
www.wbrchristian.com
Cult Metal Classics 2003
Review by
30 May 2003
Fans of old school and classic Heavy Metal better pay some extra attention now. Forget about all those lame wannabees and nu-metal bands out there as we're talking about the real deal here. This is the return of ex-Virgin Steele guitarist Jack Starr, who also recorded a bunch of solo and project albums in the 80's. This is however his return to the metal scene after many years in silence.
We can also find one of my all-time favorite metal vocalists here, namely Shmoulik Avigal (ex-Picture, The Rods, Horizon). He is truly one of the greatest metal shouters in biz and sadly also very underrated. There has simply been too few recordings during the days, for him to be recognized by a larger audience. You could say that Tony Martin (Black Sabbath) took his place in the spotlight and R.J. Dio is obviously a big inspiration.
The line-up of "Guardians Of The Flame" is completed with bassist Ned Meloni (ex- Joe Lynn Turner, Burning Starr) and drummer Joe Hasselvander (ex- Pentagram, Raven, The Boys). The overall sound does bare some similarities to early Virgin Steele (of course). However, "Under A Savage Sky" has perhaps more in common with Black Sabbath during the Dio and Tony Martin era, than anything else. The guitarwork of Starr is even better than I remember it to be and both his technique and tone, is very impressive indeed. Just check out the instrumental track "Anthem For The Nations" and you'll catch my drift here. The album begins with a couple of seconds of Orffs' Carmina Burana, before the whole thing kicks off with ""The Flame That Never Dies". It doesn't take long to recognize this to be powerful metal at its best. "Conspiratos Sanctos" is very much like those tunes Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath) used to write in the early 80's. Complete with power riffing and fantastic performance by Avigal. Proves once and for all that he really should have been the voice of Sab. The title track is like a mish-mash of early 80's metal. It's Virgin Steele, Picture, Riot, The Rods, Sab, into one lovely mixture. The more than eight minute long "I Stand Alone" is like a statement of true metal. I do however miss a couple of real sing-a-long metal anthems here. I only hope this means the next(?) album by Starr & Avigal, will be even better. Surely there must be more to come by these legends in the future? Recommended if you enjoy the old school with everything that goes with it.
www.cultmetalclassics.com
www.shmoulik.com
MTM 2004
Review by Urban "Wally" Wallstrom,
18 April 2004
We're strolling down the "Memory Lane" again with Sweden's State Of Mind. They were originally formed in the late 80's and semi famous vocalist Conny Lind (Alex Masi, Amaze Me, Talk Of The Town, Vision, etc.), joined them after his US trip and collaboration with Masi. Their first record didn't happen until the mid 90's though and MTM is now re-releasing the Japan only album "Mother" in Europe. It also features a couple of bonus tracks from their first EP "Dream Those Dreams" by the way.
It's Melodic Hardrock that unfortunately lacks stamina and hooks in the chorus department. Some more original thoughts and ideas would have been nice too. I'm not sure why MTM decided to hire Janne Stark as responsible for their classix sublabel, since he's mostly been digging up average mid-90's acts from Sweden anyway, which aren't all that hard to find on CD in the first place. You only have to look as far as Stark's own (and excellent) books "The Encyclopedia Of Swedish Hardrock & Heavy Metal", to realize that he's been leaving out most of the goodies. This is not the standard of Swedish hardrock and it surely ain't no killer release.
I must however say that the opening two tracks "My Kind Of Life" and "Up On The Top", are truly excellent hardrock. The latter is being performed in the spirit of Van Halen (Van Hagar) and guitarist Jörgen Svensson, shreds in the best 'Ed' tradition. Very catchy indeed. It's not so much this being a lousy CD... rather than plain average. Hardly what I would name a classic. The again, I guess it's all a matter of opinion.
www.wicked-sensation.com
Delicious Records 2002
Review by
16 May 2003
And it's back to the eighties again! Statetrooper was originally a solo venture for Gary Barden, ex-MSG vocalist, but eventually became a real band, although a shortlived one. The story started in 1985 and ended a couple of years later, but they managed to leave a lasting impression to many rock fans with their liveshows and one album. "2002" is a reissue of that album, first time in CD format.
It's been about 18 years since the original album was released, but the music hasn't aged too badly. The album wasn't a major label release or a big budget recording to begin with, so it sounds a bit rough for today's standards. However, the songs are good, make no mistake about it. Stylewise the band falls into the same category as some of their competitors back then, the likes of Shy, Tobruk or Heavy Pettin. They all had their roots in the "New Wave Of British Metal", but their own styles were more polished and melodic, influenced by the AOR and Hard Rock bands from the USA.
As for the songs, there's ten of them, 8 studio tracks and two live versions. I am not familiar with the original release, but I assume that the seven first numbers are "the original album", and the live tracks (the excellent "Too Late" and MSG's "Armed and Ready") and "Juliet" have been added later on. "Juliet" is obviously a very rough demo, a good song but the sound is quite awful. Thankfully the other studio recordings are of somewhat better quality, and what's more, you won't find a bad song among them. In fact, for me the weakest number here is the MSG cover...okay, it may be "a classic" but for my money the other trucks are more appealing. Lots of keyboards, good melodies and lot of energy!
The latest news is that the band is working on a new album as I write this. At least my expections are big...they were this good 18 years ago, god only knows how good they are these days, as they have had time to gather experience. Not to mention the fact that today everyone has better possibilities to create pro-sounding music, thanks to the innovations in technology.
Escape Music 2003
Review by
8 December 2003
"Everybody wants to rule the world and nobody's finding time to learn". The words are taken from the opening track "Shape Of Things To Come" by UK act Statetrooper, and I believe they are still as suitable today as back then. We've already reviewed a different version of this CD earlier this year (see archive for details).
However, this Escape Records reissue has been remastered with original artcover and several bonus tracks. Statetrooper was formed around ex-MSG vocalist Gary Barden and former members of Wildfire in 1985. They released one EP in 1986 and the selftitled debut the following year, before disappearing into obscurity. They have recently reformed though and another album is just around the corner. This will do for now and live versions of "Faster Than Light" (unreleased bonus track), "Set Fire To The Night", and "She Got The Look", have been added to this disc. The sound quality is not exactly top class (read: pretty crappy), but at least "How Does It Feel" (unreleased bonus track), does both rock and sound fine. It's overall nice, British, rock, similar to Heavy Pettin & Tobruk at the time. Do check our archive for more information.
www.escape-music.com
CIC 2004
Review by Kimmo Toivonen,
14 June 2004
This UK cult 80'ies hard rock band made a surprise comeback a couple of years ago by re-releasing their only album in CD format. The release was warmly welcomed, and the band started to put together a long-awaited follow-up. Now, 15 years after the original release of the first album, the second Statetrooper album is available. And they say that Def Leppard or Boston take their time between albums...
"The Calling" is produced by the band and Michael Voss, who's involved in vocalist Gary Barden's other project Silver as well. To be honest, some of the songs sound a lot like Silver, they're similary dark and grandiose. Barden's unique voice does leave its' mark on them too.
The opener is the title track, one of the most "Silver-like" songs, a big, pompous rocker with hints of Whitesnake in it. A good track but somehow a bit hollow. Same could be said of the whole album actually, it's good, but there's something cold and hollow about it that I really can't explain. Oh well..."Casablanca" follows, a good track if not among my top three songs of the album, unlike the next two. "I'm Alive" and "Amerisians" a quite excellent songs, both extremely melodic and catchy with huge, anthemic choruses. The intro of "I'm Alive" sounds dangerously familiar though...very early eighties' styled synth sequence...was it The Spys? Prophet? White Sister? Some obscure band like that anyway...
"Love Lies Bleeding" is the better of the two ballads, the other being a somewhat tiresome "Don't Say Goodbye". "D.O.A" is the token frantic rocker, and not one of the bands' strongest tracks. I quite like "Marionettes", although the funny whistling part is something you wouldn't expect! "How Does It Feel" is vintage eighties' melodic rock from the Desmond Child book of songwriting, and I'll admit it, I can't resist these kinds of songs, no matter how unoriginal they may be.
The album is closed with another Silver-type of a song "Twilight's Last Gleaming" and the semi-acoustic laidback singalong pop of "I Believe" which for some reason reminds me the 70'ies pop rockers Smokie.
All in all a decent album, although I didn't really warm up to all the songs or the overall vibe.
Lion Music 2001
Shredding sparks of neo classical compositions come flying out of Ohio USA thanks to an incredibly gifted new guitar played called Chris Steberl. His theory's add up to seven tracks of superbly constructed guitar monsters with superbly arranged classical pieces. This is a mighty accomplishment for an unsigned artist who has had to finance the recording himself, so credit where credit is due, Steberl knows exactly where and when to impress the listener and not to impress and just let the melodies flow, which keeps this album fresh and exciting.
The best tracks are the opening track 'Nightmare On Bald Mountain', see if you can spot his influences. I hear elements of Michael Fath, Shawn Lane, Eric Johnson, Jason Becker and Marty Friedman in his music. In fact 'Nightmare' features some chunky chopin riffage that could almost be the band Cacophony featuring the aformentioned Becker and Friedman. There is so much musicality playing throughout this song. As you can probably tell this is not your usual guitar album, check out 'Sahara Skies', another gorgeous song that plays with satisfying effect thanks to the added inclusion of the piano which is played by Chris himself. The feel of this song gives off European influences, also in -smegging- credible is 'Mozart's 25th Symphony In Gm (Amadeus)'.This is where the classical compositions come into full force, this song is quite fun and changes mood every so often, keeping the listener interested and entertained right to the very end, lets also not forget the relaxing 'Silk 'n' Honey' with it's gentle and calm ing theme reminding me of Eric Johnson.
Sterberl's playing is extraordinary, incredible, astonishing, wondrous, stupendous, sensational, miraculous, breathtaking, inspiring, and utterly mind-blowing, I really like this album and if your a fan of this style of music then you will appreciate the skill and passion of Chris Steberl's work which almost breaks previously held land speed records. You can catch Chris playing tribute to Jason Becker on "Warmth In The Wilderness" out now via Lion Music.
www.lionmusic.com
AFM Records 2001
Review by 
15 August 2001
These Swedes are following on footsteps of the "Metal Warriors" Hammerfall - and aren't bad at it. I'd call them an average power metal band. They have catchy guitars and choruses and the songs are pure grind, just what you would expect from this kind of band. And what about a song titled "Holy Swordsmen", just typical even though you can find that power only from the chorus. Otherwise it's not that fast.
Also on the same line is the song "Defender Of The Crown" that is the best one on the album. The best one could have been the title song, but the "emptiness" on its chorus took the shine out of it. I can't say much about this album since I think I've heard all of these things before. This lacks of originality. I can't say Hammerfall is original, but they have something that gets chills down my spine and this didn't do it for me that well at all. Nothing wrong with the band, just the emptiness haunting me all the way.
Z Records 2003
Review by
22 November 2003
The rock anthem "We All Die Young" (later re-recorded as theme song for the "Rock Star" movie), was at first included on Steelheart's third album, originally released back in 1996 in Japan and as very limited, independent, issue, in the states.
"Wait" has now (finally?) been re-issued and re-released with one bonus track for the European market by Z Records. You could actually compare Steelheart's "Wait" with XYZ's third release "Letter To God", released earlier this year. Both have little in common with the bands previous efforts and display mostly borderline Led Zep/modern inspired rock.
I must admit being very disappointed with "Wait", the first time I played it. It's without a doubt a grower though and it gets better with each spin (up to a certain point). Do however not expect another "Tangled In Reins" or the fun party rock from the debut album. This is more or less Mike Matijevic's solo album than anything else, and it's quite similar to the stuff Lenny Wolf (Kingdom Come) has been doing lately. Tracks like "Cabernet", "Garden Of Delight", "Take A Little Time", "Live 2 Die", etc, are like blueprints of later days Kingdom Come. It's over all more about groove than hooks this time and not even Kingdom Come, dared to come up with a "Ahh Song" in the past. Matijevic does his best Robert Plant impression here with lots of ahh, ahh, ahh's... of course. The title track is a soulful piano ballad with lots of wit and charm and some high-pitched screams (not of this world) at the end of the song. There's not as many high-pitched screams as in the past though and some will say it's probably for the best too? I've always thought that "We All Die Young", sounded like if U2 came from the Seattle scene and decided to replace Bono with Matijevic somehow. Nevertheless, a good song it is and this original version rocks too. The bonus track "All Your Love" is a nice semi-ballad in the same Led Zep/Kingdom Come style as above numbers. Not as much party rock as in the past but still enjoyable for what it is.
www.zrecords.net
MTM Music 1998
Review by
Steelhouse Lane is a band put together by Mike Slamer, a wellknown producer/songwriter. He isn't actually in the band, but he has co-written all the songs and plays the guitars on this album. The vocals are provided by a great new talent Keith Slack.
Slamer has written a song or two for other artists, and he has decided to include a few of them on "Metallic Blue". Actually, most of these songs have been covered by other artists, so one could call this album "The Best Of Mike Slamer"...
The furious title song (also covered By House Of Lords)kickstarts the album, followed by the brilliant Tower City song "Surrender", which is actually called "I Won't Surrender" on TC's album, because they already have another song called "Surrender"..."Addicted" is just as brilliant, a real AOR gem. It has been earlier recorded by Wall Of Silence. The first ballad is "Find Your Way Home", a new song to me and an OK song. "Dr. Love" is a good midtempo song that was also on Hardline's "Double Eclipse".
"Still" is another new song with a great AOR chorus, and "Best Years Of My Life" is a great AOR track that I think was also on James Christian's solo album [note, 31th of July, 1999: It's not actually...]. "Can't Fight Love" is another song from Lords' "Demons Down", and "Feel My Love" is another Tower City track. They haven't released it themselves, which is no wonder because it is really quite average. That can not be said of "Fire With Fire", which is a true AOR jewel again co-written by the Tower City.
"Can't Stop" is one of the few new songs (I think), co-written by Slamer and Tom De Luca, but it is unfortunately one of the weaker songs here. Last but not least there is the ballad "Brighter Day", a song from the James Christian album.
All in all a good compilation of tunes from a very talented songwriter. The next album is supposed to be all originals with only one remake. Now that should be interesting, we'll have to see if Slamer still has "it"!
MTM Music 1999
Review by
Wow. A production that sounds like million dollars, some fantastic songs and top-notch performances - what more could you ask for? Not a lot, I think! If you have read my review of the first SHL album, you might remember me wondering if Mike Slamer could come up with an album full of new great songs, as the first album was mostly remakes of his old hits. Well... I am not wondering anymore!
Even though it's only July, I am sure that at least two of these songs will be on my list of "Top Ten Songs of 1999". One of them is "Find What We're Lookin' For", a song that has one of the most original arrangements I have heard lately, not to mention a sensational melody. The other one is "Seven Seas", which sounds so much like a HIT...Given a chance on radio stations, I can almost guarantee that this song would be huge! The chorus is irresistable!
And then the runners-up...The ballads, the slightly Toto-like "Turn Around" and the awesome "All I Believe In" are very high on my list, nd so is the Dokken-meets-Whitesnake-like "All Or Nothin'". I don't have much to complain about the rest of the songs either. "Into Deep", "Son Of A Loaded Gun" (imagine House Of Lords doing a cowboy song!) and the only remake, the Streets-song "The Nightmare Begins" are all pretty good songs, maybe not quite as special as the ones mentioned earlier, but not fillers by any means. The only song I'd rather skip is the title song, which is just too experimental for its' own good. In conclusion, this is easily one of the albums of the year!
Indie 2000
14 September 2000
Though the artwork lists five names as the members of Steelwind, the band is basically about Kevin Humphrey vocalist-guitarist, who is credited as songwriter for all of the songs. And this guy has talent! When taking the CD into your hands - though it is an independent release - the extremely professional looking artwork is already very promising, and when playing the disc itself the sound is surprisingly good too. Kevin was responsible for the production too, however my verdict is that an “outsider ear” could have been helpful in this case, his guitars and the vocals are pretty much in the front of the mix, while the bass and on some of the tracks the keys are hardly audible. The band lists Night Ranger, Styx, Boston, Metallica (why??), Journey, and Toto as their musical influences. Musically my take would be Journey and Styx as the strongest influences, mostly because of Kevin’s clear, high-pitched vocals, his guitar sound/playing and the arrangements. Although they have not listed Petra or Stryper I would list these bands here too, mostly because the lyrics are all those special Christian topics. Some of the song titles to show what I am talking about: “Heaven’s Calling”, “On The Rock”, “Friend In A High Place”, but actually all the songs incorporate some religious hints.
My favorites were the opening “Heaven’s Calling”, an up-tempo rocker with a definitely Neil Schon (Journey) like guitar, “On The Rock”, another up-tempo rocker in the vein of early Petra, and the acoustic “Lean Not To Your Understanding” that features a great cello solo (my ears say it’s done by a great keyboard sound and is not real, but great anyway). Styx fans would love this song, as much as “Pretender”, another mid-tempo ballad-like song in early Styx vein. However the next highlight for me is another rocker “Don’t You Know”, great guitar riff, very memorable vocal lines fitted on it. This song could have been huge, the hooks are there but I miss the backing vocals so much! This refrain should have been turned into a shout out arena rocker with thick background vocals! “Wounded Soldier” shows outstanding musicality and arrangement again, these guys seem to love strings as much as I do.
If you love the bands used as reference here you can’t go wrong with Steelwind either. However if you are annoyed by religious lyrics, stay away from them. The bio said two band members are just being replaced. Hopefully Kevin finds the right partners who can contribute to the music and lyrics writing too. Steelwind is definitely on the right track, with a little more diversity (in songwriting) and a little more investment (in production and promotion, maybe getting signed to a real label instead of another independent release) this band has the potential to make it big. Check them out at www.steelwind.net
Steelwind Productions 2000
8-12-00 Steelwind are a christian band from USA, and they do have that "christian metal" sound of late eighties. They remind me soundwise of bands like Angelica and Holy Soldier, with a kind of a treble-heavy production. Steelwind have musically a lot in common with the bands mentioned too, although their approach is a bit less metal-oriented.
Steelwind is clearly the brainchild of guitarist/vocalist/writer/producer Kevin Humphrey. He has a good clean voice, not far removed from the likes of Kevin Cronin (of REO Speedwagon) and Brad Delp of Boston/RTZ. Actually, there are a few songs that sound a bit like both RTZ and REO, the quirky "no Compromise" and "Friend In A High Place" for instance.
To me, the highlights are the melodic hard rockers "Don't You Know" and "In The Name Of Love". Some of the balladeering is really good as well, but the rather one-dimensional production leaves a lot to be desired. All in all, not bad.
Steelwind productions 2003
Review by
27 July 2003
There's no doubt about it! "Jawhook" is an excellent follow up album to Steelwind's "Heaven's Calling", debut release in the year of 2000 (see review in our archive). Many independent artists out there really deserves some extra praise and Kevin Humphrey (vocals/guitar), is deffenitly one of them. He (and the whole band really) has managed to place themselves way above the average indie level and the result is a great 80's AOR/Rock album.
The production may still not be as "fat" as back in the 80's. Not that strange either since they had loads and loads of $$$ then. You can however safely get this if you're usually buying CD's from AOR/Melodic Rock labels nowadays. I believe Humphrey actually listened to some of our advice from previous CD review as Billy Oliver (keyboards/vocals), is now responsible as songwriter on 4 of the 10 tracks included. Something which proves to be a stroke of genius as it gives a major boost and diversity, to the overall great material.
This is very much music in the vein of REO Speedwagon in the mid-80's, especially since Humphrey is a deadringer for their vocalist Kevin Cronin. I believe that he's also been spending hours infront of the stereo, listening to the work of Tom Scholz (Boston) in the past. You could say that Steelwind is the low budget version of Boston somehow (production and guitar wise), the material sure kicks a lot more than Scholz' horrible album last year. Add a big dose of influences from classic bands such as: Styx & Petra (The Greg X Volz years), and you're pretty close to the core. Opener "Still In Love With You" is everything that REO Speedwagon was all about, in the early/mid 80's. The title track "Jawhook", is like a lovely mixture of Styx and believe it or not... Nik Kershaw. I know, this must sound very strange to you all! But believe me... this is one fine epic tune, with some marvelous keys a'la Dennis De Young. "My Flesh" is very much like Petra during their "More Power To Ya" and "Beat The System" days. "I Believe In Mircales" is back to the REO sound again and the same goes with "Running Out Of Time". The only downer is that Humphrey's voice can sometimes sound very fragile. He's dangerously close to being off-key a couple of times. This will however not effect the overall picture and he managed to stay on-key in the end. Bottomline, if you're into the classic sound of: REO Speedwagon, Boston, Petra, you owe it to yourself... to at least check out the MP3's at their homesite below. Recommended! Keep in mind what I said about the production etc though.
www.steelwind.net
Baby Pea Records 2001
Review by
24 May 2002
Well, with a name like theirs Stereo 360 just has to be a modern rock group - and that's what they are. I don't have too much information, all I know is that they are a four-piece group from US, with sound not too far from the likes of Marvelous 3 and SR-71. Yeah, yeah...there's something in the numbers.
Out of the four tracks on "Quadruple", my vote goes to the opener "Vasoline Mouth", which is a catchy little powerpop track very much in the M3 vein. The other three tracks "Sick Of You", "Plastecine" and "Superstar" aren't too bad either, but somehow they lack that extra punch to take them to the next level. Still, there's no question about it, this band worth checking out if you are into the "nu-breed" of melodic rock - Marvies, SR-71, Nine Days etc.
Website addresses:
http://www.kingsofpop.com
http://www.stereo360.com
Wild One Records 2000
Review by 
6 April 2002
Stiletto waves the eighties flag proudly and comes up with an album in the style of Saxon, Slaughter and Quiet Riot. A classic album. A classic in a sense that there are many things here that you can spot on most of the classic rock albums. Here are some things that I came across.
1) Cool band member names (Crazy Stiletto)
2) Song about drinking with the boys and raising some hell (“Stiletto Gang”)
3) A song that starts with the drums, followed by a guitar riff and lyrics that describe girls’ legs and hair etc. Add the bass and then to the chorus where some innuendo about what the girl does (“Cum in2 My Mouth”). Also a part where a girl moans.
4) Mentioning that you did it all for rock ‘n’ roll (“Friends Forever”) This song also qualifies for compulsory power ballad.
5) A song about a girl that will make you sweat because she’s a fast machine that keeps her motor clean (if you know what I mean) (“Big Twin”)
6) You’re a drifter/roamer/outlaw so you had to leave a girl but you’ll be thinking of her (“Over and Over”)
7) (Optional) A live song (“1 More Time”)
8) A young girl (some might call her a jailbait but you don’t care) who’s looking for satisfaction and you are the man to deliver it (“WW”)
9) An instrumental song (or a VERY long solo) (“Concrete”)
10) A filler (“Living on the Seaside”). Not really, but I had to think of one to finish the list.
I’ve mentioned before that I’m a simple man who likes simple things. No overproduced bullshit, no experimental crap or fancy tricks, just plain rock ‘n’ roll. I’ve been playing this in my car stereo for a while and the more I listen to it the more I like it. So as you are marching to the store to buy this stop by at the local shop for a six pack, then go home, play it loud and enjoy.
Stiletto Website
CCCP Red Records 2002
Review by
4 January 2003
Stockholm Showdown’s “Last Call To Paradise” is an excellent album with a touch of early 70’s rock and a pinch of glam. This is pretty straight forward rock and the songs are well written. Overall one of the better records I’ve heard for a while.
Rozen Johansson and Sterta Byrstedt take care of the composition on this album and they’re good at it. The frosting on the cake here was Slim Tannberg’s guitar solos. This man really catches your attention from the very first time and I quite enjoyed his performance. The band has a fine rhythm section and altogether this is a darn good rock album.
My personal favorites on this album were “No Compromise” and the opener “Wont Mind You Leaving” which sets the pace for the whole album. No fillers on this album, just rock solid performance from the beginning till the end. I hope to catch this band live some day because I got a feeling that this would work well in front of a crowd. Till then check out their website to learn more about this band.
www.stockholmshowdown.telia.com
Storyteller Records 2003
Review by
8 May 2003
"Baby, Baby, Wont Ya' Rock My Nation" - The words are blasting out through my loudspeaker as I crank up the volume, louder & louder. This melodic rock act's debut album will surely "Crack A Little Smile", all over yer sad & lonesome face. Based on the 13 album releases among them, these four Norwegian guys of Stoneflower, opted to go for an album of their own this time.
Frode Henriksen (vocals), Tom Sennerud (guitar), Jan Johanessen (guitar) & Svenn R Huneide (bass), do all have experience from playing in bands such as - Diezel, Tindrum, Brød & Cirkus, Alarm Justin Case, Rondo, Embee Normann, etc. Ex-Stage Dolls member Steinar Krogstad, guest appears on drums throughout the whole album. And Dag Bårdstu handle all keys (including a mean hammond from time to time) here.
Their roots are without a doubt firmly grounded in the 80's rock. You could say they've taken the catchines of Stage Dolls/Return and mould it together, with the laidback approach of Michael Learns To Rock. Some melodies with acoustic/electric guitars in the same style as Rick Price or Stefan Andersson (Catch The Moon), can also be found here. However, they do also rock out with loud guitars and everything from time to time. Just check out "Torn To Peices", which is very much like Return during thier "V" days. Lovely guitarwork and catchy hooks makes this one helluva song for sunny afternoon's at the beach. This is a full sound CD with great production and smashing vocal harmonies. The song were all written over a 5 year period and they've been spending hours & hours in the studio, just to get everything right. Something which tracks like "Rock My Nation", "If U Say", "Whenever" etc. all bare witness of. I'm sure this will appeal both to those who enjoyed Stage Dolls (Stripped) & Return (mostly the "V" album) as much as fans, of the more "modern" sound of Michael Learns To Rock. And if you've been looking for the mixture of those two sounds, you better stop right here for a while. Very close to a 9 rating and highly recommended! Check out their site for more info etc.
www.stoneflower.no
The STORM: "Eye of The Storm"
MFN 1995
Review by
This album has been getting favourable reviews all over the place, and I have to agree with them. This is one of the best albums I have heard in a while. I would have liked if there had been more uptempo melodic rockers like "Fight For The Right" or "Don't Give Up", now it seems that the band has concentrated on the slower songs. Anyway, that's just a small detail, there are a lot of great songs on this album!
Goimusic 2003
Review by
7 July 2003
The Stormrider was born in 2000 in Spain. Their music is power metal with lots of influences coming from goth, doom, black etc metal and bands such as Stratovarius, Amorphis, Moonspell. They’ve got six members, one of them a female keyboardist and one added guest soprano Susana Mortem. Spanish metal has never really impressed much, but The Stormrider has it’s moments.
There’s nothing wrong with the band here, they’re tight, but it’s the vocals that ruin it all. They sound raw, weak and made in a rush. Even most of the background vocals aren’t working and at times it’s like a drunken troll choir, really tasteless. The vocal arrangements need a lot of work and the band should’ve thought it all out more carefully before rushing in to record. After all the singer is the most important element of a band that people best relate to. And even when the band plays well, the material doesn’t carry too far. There’s not a song that stands out really, it’s quite average stuff, though there’s lots of great ideas that should take the band further with time and patience. ”Never (Deep Winter)” is probably the best track here. Susana Mortem’s voice is the strongest part of the album and should’ve been used more. The keys also play an important part, the sound changes with every song and every song has it’s own theme. I can still see a future for this band even after such a bad review. Like I said The Stormrider has it’s moments. And Spanish metal is evolving.
Massacre Records 2001
Actually this album was edited first in Japan in 1998. The new european version comes with 2 bonus tracks; the instrumental "Tears of passion" and the cover of ALCATRAZZ classic "Too young to die, too drunk to live".
When I listened to the voice I said "Hey, this guy is a deadringer for Mark Boals". Later when I was reading the bio, I realized that he was she! The lady's name is Angelica Häggström. Nice surprise, knowing the fact that the power metal genre is dominated by male singers.
This swedish mob is the the brain-child of mainman and guitarist Thomas Wolf, a swedish karate champion, whose music abilities are not to be understimated. On "Stargate" we can find flute and violin interludes, like in "Sakura Opus", based on a japanese traditional song, which are contributed by Anna Norberg (Castle of Stockholm) and Michelle Wilcox respectively.
In short, STORMWIND music borrows influences from the likes of YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, TAD MOROSE or MEMENTO MORI from the "Dance Macabre" era (what a coincidence, all these are from Sweden!).
Honestly, with all this new wave of "melodic neoclassical power metal" it's getting pretty difficult to know who are the cream of the top (and of course, which bands are worthy of investing our bucks). The lovers of this genre will no doubt be quite happy with this album.
The ALCATRAZZ cover would have been the highlight of "Stargate" if it hadn't been for the awful vocal. Perhaps Mr. Wolf picked up the microphone for this tune. Ego-maniac musicians! When are they going to learn not to step into territories they don't control? Shame, with a good singer like Angelica behind the mike. Whatever...
A fact worth mentioning: Ian Haugland, of EUROPE fame, plays drums here as a guest musician.
Massacre Records 2001
6 November 2001
Fifth album for this Swede power metal outfit founded back in 1996 by guitarist and former Swedish Karate champion Thomas Wolf. Line up includes: awesome vocalist Thomas Vikström, drummer Patrik Johansson (ex- Without Grief), bassist Andreas Olsson and keyboardist Kaspar Dahlquist (ex-Treasure Land). Production was held by Wolf himself. Having not listened to any of their previous efforts I'll stick to what their press note says and supposedly this is their more neo-classical, epic album so far.
First of all I must confess this is not my scene. I got this because Thomas Vikström sings on it, but I'm affraid that's not enough for me to like this CD. After the intro "Genesis" the album starts with the epic, powerful and uptempo "War Of Troy". It has a sing-along chorus that will satisfy most fans of the genre. For me it's just the zillion Malmsteen clone with, I must say, much less talent on it. "The Man Behind The Iron Mask" slows down a bit, letting us appreciate this guys have at least space for some melodies in the midst of their neo-classical rage. Unfortunately the mix is not well balanced IMO, and we miss Vikström good vocal job on this one. The title track is a more prog metal tune with some good guitar riffs (at least they are not Yngwie rip-offs!). Good backing vocals. Is one of the highlights of the album, but anyway seems a bit uninspired to my ears. "Illusion" starts as an ok heavy metal tune, but the chorus is (again) too close to Yngwie's style. Thomas Wolf's playing seems to me much ado about nothing, that is, too many filigranes with very little (if any) substance on it. "Golden Tears" is quite an unteresting ballad with an obvious ressemblance in some parts to the sensational Yngwie's "Dreaming" from the Oddissey album, but million miles away from the original even if Vikström's vocals here are really good. "Queen Of Nine Days" is a boring, completely forgettable track. So it is "Dinasty". "Assasin Of Honour" can be only saved because of the good backing vocals, and the final "Ramses" is an epic track with all the basic ingredients of the genre. Not bad but not good either.
As a result, this can be a good choice for power/epic metal fans who don't mind hearing the same thing over and over again. No originality at all. And the songs aren't that catchy either with few sing-along chorus, even if they are meant to be anthems. Production is not well done IMO, as vocals are sometimes lost in the midst of guitar and keyboard rage, bass and drums sound really well on the other hand. Stay away from this album if you're looking for some good melodies or if you fell tempted by Thomas Vikström appeal (as I did).