Album review: THE PALACE GUARD – All Night Long: An Anthology 1965-1966

THE PALACE GUARD – All Night Long An Anthology 1965-1966

Omnivore Recordings [Release date 21.5.21]

Garage rockers The Palace Guard may not have enjoyed the success of fellow Hawthorne natives The Beach Boys, but their entire recorded repertoire is now celebrated with this superbly remastered and restored compilation.

They released five singles in total, along with one where they backed Don Grady, which were originally released by either Orange-Empire or Parkway. Their early line-up was also notable for including future Merry Go Round / solo genius Emitt Rhodes on drums.

Their sound had a heavy Anglophile influence and the band members kitted themselves out in red British guardsmen’s uniforms on stage. Their killer track was 1966’s Mersey-style pop number ‘Falling Sugar’. This made it onto the expanded version of the seminal “Nuggets” in 1998, with compiler Lenny Kaye describing it as a “catchy Moptop-ish toe-tapper brimming with youthful fervour”.

The jangly Byrds-meets-Beatles of ‘All Night Long’, which became a local hit, was arranged and conducted by Jack Nitzsche. It’s drenched in harmonies, and replete with an infectious “coochie coochie coochie coo” refrain!

Although much of their material was self-penned by brothers Don and John Beaudoin, they also released an excellent version of the David Gates song ‘Saturday’s Child’ (which was also recorded by The Monkees). The darker ‘A Girl You Can Depend On’ shows a different side to their sound, while ‘Party Lights’ (written by Claudine Clark) has an almost ‘gospel country’ feel.

Despite limited success at the time, The Palace Guard’s legacy is worthy of discovery for any fans of harmony-drenched 1960’s garage rock. The booklet includes various archive photos and ephemera, along with a definitive band history penned by bass guitarist Rick Moser. ***1/2

Review by Jim Henderson


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: THE L.A. MAYBE – Dirty Damn Tricks

THE L.A. MAYBE - Dirty Damn Tricks

Facebook [Release date 26.03.21]

The L.A Maybe are a 6-piece band that originate in the Carolinas. They are a band that take inspiration from just about everything and everywhere, but I’m gonna go with Guns n Roses, AC/DC, The Black Crowes, Van Halen, Skid Row and Aerosmith as the main ones here. Their insanely catchy songs have everything I am after- big choruses, great harmonies, hooks a plenty and solid guitars (some of which are very Slash like in style). The band certainly sit nicely alongside the likes of Dirty Honey and The Dust Coda in the current wave of great new rock bands breaking through.

The album opens with first single “Mr. Danger”, which almost has a feel of modern AC/DC with Bon Scott era vocals at times. Ironic as singer Alvi Robinson was one of four singers auditioned to replace the band’s Brian Johnson in 2016. But Robinson is no mere wannabe as you will hear from his impressive vocals throughout “Dirty Damn Tricks”, and the band he has assembled behind him are one of the best new acts I have heard this year.

“Sucker Punch” has a Skid Row meets Velvet Revolver air to it and is one of the album’s highlights, as are “Fake” which is reminiscent of Axl Rose at his finest and the big Skynyrd come Black Crowes style balladry of “When I’m Gone”. Then we have “Take Me Away” a song that almost has the swagger of Extreme but is just a little too close to Dirty Honey’s “Rolling 7’s” or “She’s Reckless”, which has that classic Slaughter feel but with a great Bon Scott style vocal.

The quality of the song writing on offer here is impressive for a new band with a debut album, and there really isn’t a weak track on “Dirty Damn Tricks”. “Oh Sugar” is a song that has the lot, dripping in swagger it is the perfect summer rock song. “Piece of Mind” is bluesier and slower yet not quite a ballad, “Sweet” comes complete with a vocal that could cut through most things whilst “Up Next To You” rounds it all off in style.

The L.A Maybe have released the right album at the right time, and they have got the great songs to make an impact. I am looking forward to hearing much more from this band. *****

 Review by Nikk Gunns


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Gig review: JOE BONAMASSA – Live Stream, Austin City Limits Live, Austin, Texas – Thursday April 1, 2021

Joe Bonamassa - Austin Live #1

There’s almost an irony about Joe Bonamassa livestream coming from Austin, Texas, which in the late ‘80s was coined ‘live music capital of the world’ by Austin Music Network’s Ronnie Mack, before officially being designated as such in 1991.

Quite how many of those clubs will survive the pandemic remains to be seen, but Joe Bonamassa has certainly done his bit, as evidenced by the advertorial intro to his live stream, which illustrates just how hard he has worked to keep his chosen profession alive.

And hard work and planning is what lies at the core of a show that finds Bonamassa going back to his early career power trio format. In fact, it’s actually a power quartet with the significant additional presence of Australian vocalist Jade Macrae, who brings extra depth to the harmonies as well as providing an occasional site line for the guitarist as he rips into one of many guitar solos.

Tonight he has to work hard to make a connection with 700 socially distanced people in a big room. For the most of the evening they sound like the equivalent of a desk tape recording.

It’s tough task to pull off and one that requires an extra shot of energy to make a meaningful connection.

He seems to have that in mind as he’s swapped his usual formal suit for a blue floral number and seems pleased to engage his audience in moments of offhand banter, while occasionally pausing for a response that we can’t always hear.

Either way, he revels in the stripped down format relying on his undiminished musical chops and forceful personality, as evidenced by the telling line on the outstanding Theremin inflected ‘Look Out Man!’ “Look out man, I’m a force of nature.”

And he certainly is that, driving the band through a well balanced set list, of which ‘Love Ain’t A Love Song’, the afore mentioned ‘Lookout Man!’ and the early career ‘Love You, Hate You,’ provide magical moments when he seems to inhabit his former self.

He introduces the latter with a humorous autobiographical intro, telling us the song is about an early relationship with a platonic girlfriend in which: “life became grey…. like uncured cement.”

He unravels his stinging reflective lyrics round a Southern rock intro and an exquisite solo over Steve Mackey’s pulsing bass, all neatly wrapped by Anton Fig’s unrelenting drive on the sticks.

There’s a moment in his mesmerising solo around the 1 hour 37 minute mark, where he makes an essential connection with his subject matter.

JB- Austin Live

The key to it all is the way he builds his set from the ground up, opening with the hard-riffed dirge and contrasting scorching runs of ‘Oh Beautiful!’ and the magnificent kick-ass funk of ‘Love Ain’t A Love Song’ with its wonderful refrain.

He takes a couple of steps forward to the lip of the stage to deliver a ripping solo of effortless intensity, counterweighted by some deft light and shade, leading to a suitably climactic finish.

At this point there’s still much to do in terms of sparking his socially distanced crowd and ma make for an exciting DVD audio visual experience.

He does so, on ‘Beyond The Silence’, which showcases both his songcraft – it could easily fit a Cohen Brothers movie – and his high octane, stop-start jamming with his doughty rhythm section. Only a rather abrupt return to a final verse mars another highlight.

He’s in impressive harmony mode with Jade McRae on a cover of Tom Waits’ ‘Jockey Full Of Bourbon’, while he has to the rescue the slightly ponderous ‘Wandering Earth’ with a scintillating guitar burst.

He’s in his power trio element on the Hendrix influenced ‘Pain And Sorrow’, which rocks hard with a beautiful toned flighty solo and makes you realise just how much his song writing has improved over the last 2 decades.

Being in Austin, he suitably pays tribute to SRV with a celebratory version of ‘Scuttle Buttin’, before a return to his Brit blues predilection with an exquisite ‘Blues Deluxe’ on which he lets every note resonate.

The audience finally makes itself heard after his opening vocal line, as he explores the intricate dynamics of the Beck and Stewart classic.

He rounds things off with the Zeppelin influenced, pile driver ‘The Ballad Of John Henry’ on which Macrae adds some echo-laden vocal gymnastics.

Joe extends the song with an ethereal guitar and Theremin which gives it a space rock feel and finishes it with a gutsy buzz saw toned solo.

His audience stand up as one and hit the floor totally forgetting about social distancing.

He switches to acoustic for the frenetic ‘Woke Up Dreaming’, the first of a well deserved 2 song encore. He then finally switches to  a red Gibson SG on the tub thumping ‘Cross Road Blues’.

JB - Austin Live #4

Suffice it to say, that by the end of the show things feel normal again in the rock-blues firmament.

The fact that Bonamassa pulls it off under such adverse circumstances speaks volumes for the man and his dedication to the music he loves.

Review Pete Feenstra
Photos by Allison Morgan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: THE GHOST OF LEMORA – Love Can Be Murder

THE GHOST OF LEMORA – Love Can Be Murder

Resurrection Records [Release date 12.02.21]

Originally formed in London in 2001, The Ghost of Lemora have released two studio albums and a couple of EPs. This new album has been in the works for a number of years  being delayed by the pandemic as many albums have been. It was produced by Andy Ramsey (Stereolab) – whose studio the album was recorded in – and Paul Tipler (Placebo, Julian Cope).

The Ghost Of Lemora are Jeff Simon (drums), Colin Ness (bass), Peter Jennings (keyboards), Paul Swift (guitar, backing vocals) and Richard Winstone (lead vocals) – the latter two are founding members of the band, with Swift being the band’s main songwriter.

The press release says this album is the band’s most ambitious release to date. Not having heard their earlier work I can’t comment on that, however, they certainly have put a lot into the music. There is a jazz beat meets metal riffs on ‘The Letter I Wanted To Write’. Then on ‘The Beginning of the End of the Western Dream’ there is some wonderful Keith Emerson approved keyboards from Peter Jennings. Prog fans will particularly enjoy this one, as will those who like a bit of gothic pomp a la Sisters Of Mercy.

‘Headphones’ is perhaps the most instant song on the album with a chugging riff and driving rhythm. Spending a lot of time with my headphones on to get through a day I can relate to this song’s lyrics – “Headphones, block out, My world I want back”.

‘I’ll Be With You Tomorrow’ is a tender song to end the album on. Again it features lovely paino/keys, one of the main strengths on the album.

Richard Winstone’s vocals take a little while to gel, he doesn’t half remind me of Johnny Cola from the A-Grades. Indeed, like many a good album you keep coming back to, lend it your time and ears as you will be well rewarded if you like prog, pomp or gothic rock that is a little different. ***1/2

Review by Jason Ritchie


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: SCREAMACHINE – Screamachine

Frontiers [Release date 09.03.21]

Screamachine comprises five experienced metallers, all of whom deserve a mention, but most notably, vocalist Valerio Caricchio and guitarists, Alex Mele and Paulo Campitelli, all of whom are veterans of the Italian/European Heavy Metal scene.

The label makes a big (marketing) play of the guests on the album, and yes, there are some outstanding musicians contributing their skills, like guitarists, Simone (DGM) Mularoni and Andrea (Stormlord) Angelini. But the incumbents do a pretty impressive job on their own.

It’s hard to cook up something original and sustaining within the narrow parameters of traditional metal. So Scream Machine do what others have done successfully before them. They drill down into the DNA of the genre, emerging with their own powerful variants, cut with the occasional fresh perspective.

That said, ‘Metal Monster’ and ‘Silver Fever’ have no need of contemporary chemistry. The band are happy to weaponise the spring loaded, twin guitar assault of influential metal bands like Accept and Iron Maiden here. Both are delivered with macho, foot-on-the-monitor vocals and spiralling axe solos. A couple of decent tunes in there too.

Elsewhere, in places, the music has definite Teutonic Metal undertones. ‘Human God’ and ‘Dark Steel’ are stomping, stadium filling, headbanging anthems, both very precise, conforming to international expectations of ever faster, tighter and heavier metal music.

First of the two album standouts is ‘Wisdom Of The Ages’. Guest musician, Herbie (Firewind) Langhans delivers his vocals in a familiar, emotionally overwrought style. And yet you can’t help but lay down the red carpet as it creeps into your head.

The other is the aggressively melodic and aggressively infectious title track ‘Screamachine’. By absorbing the sound of classical composer (and fellow Italian), Gioachinno Rossini’s galloping overtures, they’ve made a welcome step over the line into classically inclined metal. Maybe this one signposts the way ahead for Scream Machine. ***

review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


News: Albums of the Month (January 2021 – March 2021)

THUNDER – All The Right Noises

THUNDER All the Right Noises (BMG)

Thunder fans will love this album as it touches all the band’s key strengths – memorable songs, party rockers, ballads, lyrics to make you think and above all, well-crafted hard rock tunes. An Album of the Year and one that could turn out to be their best since their legendary debut album. ****1/2

Review by Jason Ritchie

TOUCH-Tomorrow Never Comes

TOUCH Tomorrow Never Comes (Escape Music)

This is an intriguing release, with enough of the classic Touch sound yet in places harking even further back to the seventies. Yet it is boldly diverse, rarely formularised and even experimental in places.  While nothing will ever compare to the majesty of the debut this is a better comeback  than even their most fanatical fans could have realistically imagined.  **** 1/4

Review by Andy Nathan

ANNEKE VAN GIERSBERGEN - The Darkest Skies Are The Brightest

ANNEKE VAN GIERSBERGEN The Darkest Skies Are The Brightest (InsideOutMusic)

Many will say that Giersbergen hasn’t really achieved the wider recognition she deserves.  “The Darkest Skies…” may be the album of much more wider acceptance.  Simply lovely.  And for anyone who has loved and lost and loved again.  *****

Review by David Randall

SCARDUST - Strangers

SCARDUST Strangers (M-Theory Audio)

At a point in time when superlatives have been devalued by overuse, it’s no exaggeration to say that Strangers, the album is immense – an extraordinarily rich, intoxicating, complex mix of progressive rock styles and sources.  ****1/2

Review by Brian McGowan

TROY REDFERN Thunder Moon (Timezone Records)

After the more introspective ‘Island’, I didn’t see ‘Thunder Moon’ on the horizon.  It’s belligerent, intelligent, adventurous, imaginative, brilliantly played and easily a career highlight  *****

Review by Pete Feenstra

BEN RANDALL - Before The Rain

BEN RANDALL Before The Rain (Thoroughbred Music)

All told, a breathtaking guitar album of the highest order from a player with other-worldly skills and, what’s more, an absolute blast.    *****

Review by Alan Jones


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


EP review: CAPTAIN NAYSAYER

CAPTAIN NAYSAYER

Website [Release date 13.02.21]

Captain Naysayer, a Belgian rock n roll band, which started in their words, as a wet dream of Daan and Evert from rockband The DeVilles. Looking for other musicians to share in an adventure of 70’s inspired rock and roll, bass player Bazz Bear of Mimi Lebonq liked their way of thinking and joined them in their quest. He was quickly followed by Tom, a former classmate of Daan, who joined them on keyboards. There was still a vacancy for a much needed a voice to represent their groovy tunes – Arthur fits the bill nicely.

This is classic 70’s rock, done well, an interesting and accomplished debut EP – well worth a listen, with all 6 tracks showcasing different aspects from heavy rock to ballad style arrangements. It is so encouraging that new bands are starting out and making original rock music especially given the difficulties the ongoing global situation presents for musicians and live music.

This 6 track EP sets out everything you need to know about the promise that this band holds – I suspect the future is looking bright, I’d be amazed if we don’t see them on a bill of a festival in the not too distant future (Covid permitting!) First single ‘Living Again’ is out now alongside the EP. Track of choice for me ‘Blue-eyed Mask’.

Captain Naysayer are fresh and different, whilst also paying homage to the classics 70’s (think Rainbow, Led Zeppelin) – this is 70’s rock with a reinvigorated energy, check them out. ***

Review by Karen Clayton

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Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: EL COLOSSO – Forgotten Ancestors

El Colosso – Forgotten Ancestors

Bandcamp [Release date 17.12.20]

This independent release containing 7 tracks is the follow up to El Colosso’s debut Album, ‘Pathways’, which was released in 2017.

El Colosso are a Melbourne based heavy rock band, comprising Benny James Pertzel (Dirty York / King Wolf), Craig Fryers (Mushroom Giant / Dive Into Ruin), Peter ‘Red Dog’ Hayden (The Hybernators / Free To Run) and Matt ‘Koops’ Cooper (Bring On The Junta). If you like your rock with a really tight sound and punchy delivery of meaningful lyrics, then this is for you.

Forgotten Ancestors is not a concept album, the lyrics and music were all written pre-pandemic, with the benefit of hindsight so much of the content seems near prophetic.

There are common themes throughout: warnings, anger, frustration, rebellion – all relating to the way we treat each other, and the way that those in power seek to treat us. The album, though, does not dwell on the sombre or outright impotent rage – there is also humour, love and hope.

The band have this to say “Forgotten Ancestors is a work we are all immensely proud of. We have been able to approach this project with the truest form of the DIY philosophy.

With the tracking masterfully recorded by Richard Stolz at Woodstock Studios in Melbourne – just before Australia’s lockdown episodes – with vocals and other overdubs being recorded at home studios, being mixed by Alex Hayes and the rest of the band via online, real-time sessions, this record is very much an honest and bold example of what EL COLOSSO can achieve.”

Another quality release from a year that presented significant challenges for all bands, I really see this is as encouraging, there’s real quality original rock music coming out, whether as a direct result or not, it makes me optimistic for the future and the return of live music – I’ll be in the queue to see this band if they head over here, without a doubt.

Tracks of choice for me ‘As One’ is an absolute stand out and ‘Down to the Stars’ which is the recent single. ***

Review by Karen Clayton


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: THE DUST CODA – Mojo Skyline

DUST CODA – Mojo Skyline

Earache Records [Release date 26.03.21]

The Dust Coda’s latest album Mojo Skyline was recorded at Modern World Studios with the multi-platinum, award-winning producer Clint Murphy (Manic Street Preachers, Thunder, Devilskin), following on from their self-titled debut in 2017.

The album has 12 tracks of pure rock and roll, opening with ‘Demon’ which is gritty and heavy hitting and with that you know you are going to be in for a treat! If you’ve not heard them before, don’t miss out any longer, I promise you won’t be disappointed.

To date there have been 3 singles released from the album already, ‘Limbo Man’, ‘Breakdown’ and the latest single, ‘Jimmy 2 Times’.

Talking about ‘Jimmy 2 Times’, making the video and on working with Andrew Morahan, executive producer, (known for his iconic work with Guns N Roses, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, amongst others), the band comments:

“J2T is a tune about a fictional gangster, a sinister trickster, the Artful Dodger all grown up. The name of the song is lifted from one of the cameo characters in the classic Martin Scorsese film ‘Good Fellas’.

The video itself pays homage to the classic gangster flicks coming out of America in the 80’s and 90’s but with a modern British twist. Andy Morahan, Josh Trigg and the rest of the guys at Geronimo Boy totally got the vibe of the song and constructed this gangster rock n roll paradise aboard a ship on the docks of the Thames in the freezing winter. It was a hell of a shoot, minus 2 degrees below deck but there was plenty of Whiskey to go around.”

You can hear influences of Led Zeppelin amongst others, with Drake’s vocals reminiscent of Plant in his heyday on ‘I Have Been Waiting’ (magnificent heavy bassline and thumping riffs) and ‘Rolling’ – the Dust Coda have certainly earnt their place in the new wave of classic rock hall of fame – long may it continue, these are exciting times for new rock music!

For anyone who dislikes manufactured pop TV, then track 10, ‘They Don’t Know Rock n Roll’ is for you – “no voice, no soul” “Them fools on the television, they don’t know rock n roll” – absolutely spot on in my view, but secretly or overtly, none of us want to be mainstream either!

My favourite tracks on this album were hard to choose as they are all really good, but for the variety, I’ll pick ‘Dream Alright’ (clever lyrics ‘”I’m forever walking tightropes in my dreams”) , ‘Breakdown, ‘She’s Gone’ (“I think about the times when I was lonely, sometimes this guitar’s my only friend”) and not forgetting the foot stomping, ‘Jimmy 2 Times’. Put it on, play it loud and repeat! I’m sure I’m educating my neighbours lol.

Outstanding. *****

Review by Karen Clayton

The Dust Coda are:
John Drake – lead vocals & guitar
Adam Mackie – lead guitar
Scot Miller – drums
Tony Ho – bass
New Single ‘Jimmy 2 Times’ – Watch the video here


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: BLAZE BAYLEY – War Within Me

BLAZE BAYLEY – War Within Me

Blaze Bayley Recording [Release date 09.04.21]

If you like your rock of the metal variety you are in for a treat – this is a blistering, classic metal album in the making. The guitar work is simply put superb – exquisite riffs throughout the tracks and the power of Blaze’s vocals are the perfect accompaniment.

Get ready to turn this up loud!

Blaze Bayley has a respectable rock pedigree, fronting Iron Maiden 1994-1999 and Wolfsblane since, he’s been solo since 2000 and this is his 11th studio release, following on from the ‘Entanglement Trilogy’ released 2016-2018

In Blaze’s own words… “This is an album that I want to put on and feel very positive about. Whatever song you choose there’s some good feeling about it. As fans of metal music we tend to be damaged, strange and different in some way and this album is about taking your future in your own hand.”

‘War Within Me’ was recorded during 2020, coping with the challenges of a global pandemic by splitting the work between Blaze’s studio in the West Midlands and Christopher Appleton’s studio in Greater Manchester. The line-up chosen to play on the album are from British metal band Absolva – Christopher Appleton (guitar, backing vocals), Martin McNee (drums), Karl Schramm (bass).

The album delivers 10 tracks with 3 tracks paying respect to people, Blaze clearly has looked up to and being inspired by – ‘The Dream of Alan Turing’, the Father of theoretical computer science and AI (artificial intelligence), ‘The Power of Nikola Tesla’ (electrical and mechanical engineer best known for his contribution to the design of the modern alternating current electricity supply) and ‘The Unstoppable Stephen Hawking’, the renowned theoretical physicist “Hawking defied them”, “Unstoppable – Don’t believe in what they tell you, you can decide how you live”

“you have strength within, and they don’t want you to find it, you can decide how you live”

I think that will resonate with many of us after a year of lockdowns and isolation, we have all had to dig deep and music has been a real lifeline in these strange times – you can appreciate perhaps more than ever before, how others may feel when our world is ‘normal’.

My pick of the tracks – ‘Flights’ -where Blaze refers to life on the road and travelling, ‘Witches Night’ which is theatrical and you’d be forgiven for thinking this could be Iron Maiden, as Blaze pays homage to his metal roots and a craft well learnt.

For any metal heads, this is a must listen to release – let’s hope Blaze is back on the road soon as this needs to be showcased live! ****

Review by Karen Clayton


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: SERENADE THE STARS – Astronomy

SERENADE THE STARS - Astronomy

Facebook

Serenade the Stars are a Buckinghamshire based band consisting of vocalists Matthew Harman and Coral Smith, guitarist Damian Carruthers (who is also the band’s main songwriter), bassist James Wrigley and drummer James Burton. They formed back in 2017 and released their debut single ‘She’s The One’ shortly after to critical acclaim.

‘Heart Shaped Parachute’ has the arena pop/rock appeal of say Snow Patrol, with the emotive vocals of Matthew Harman and guitars of Damian Carruthers to the fore. On the title track Coral Smith adds her vocals and this one reminds the listener of Deacon Blue. They work their magic again on ‘TicTok 2020’, a short, sharp piece of enjoyable pop.

All the songs on here are radio friendly, including the heartstrings tug of ‘Footprints’. This one reminds me of country pop duo the Rising.

The production allows the songs to shine, with an uncluttered mix too and just the right emphasis on the guitars. A prime example being ‘Rewind’ which finishes of the album with another arena approved anthem and plenty of sonic ‘oomph’.

Not content with just releasing their debut album, Serenade the Stars have also contributed to the soundtrack of children’s space adventure book written by guitarist Damian Carruthers called ‘Cheese Miner On The Moon’

Serenade the Stars fit in that pop rock land inhabited by the likes of Mike & the Mechanics, Del Amitri and Deacon Blue. Quality tunes that’s a for sure and a band to keep an ear and eye out on for in the coming months. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: THUDWAIL – Ignition

Thudwail - Ignition

Self release [Release date 30.10.20]

‘Ignition’ is a reflective, ambient, acoustic album full of subtle moods, textures and grooves that drip with feel.

It’s acoustic guitar driven music with a meditative and contemplative feel that is predicated on intricate dynamics, with resonant guitar tones and subtle intervals that build and finally resolve a tension.

It’s also music that demands patience, focus and attention, but is richly rewarding as it slowly evolves to reveal moments of real beauty and musical inspiration.

Thudwail comprises Will Pike and Paul Cruikshank-Inns on acoustic guitars and EBow effects, with additional help from Martin Finlayson on 5 or 6 string bass and a belated contribution by Danny Tongeman on didgeridoo.

The album title might suggest combustion, but its actually a far more subtle musical journey that celebrates the art of improvisation and rich band interplay.

Tracks like ‘Hollow’ showcases the integrity and minutiae of precisely crafted resonant notes, as they hover and float before being repeated and then left to decay naturally.

On ‘Cascade’ they cleverly add an extra texture with a choral finish, before the very last note again floats into the ether.

And it’s that dynamic intimacy that lies at the heart of an engaging album.

Thudwail has paid lip service to the influence of Jonas Hellborg and the late Shawn Lane’s ‘Zenhouse’ album, but they shape their own musical oeuvre with nuanced textures born of exhilarating interplay.

The band’s name suggests contrast – a cause and effect perhaps of something hitting the ground (a thud) and a subsequent reaction (a wail) – which in musical terms means filling a silent landscape with a linear series of both planned and improvised pieces.

The lovely bass and guitar interplay of ‘Tagma’ for example, reflects the ‘ordered or arranged’ meaning of the song title, while the closing extended improvisation of ‘Digiwobble’ is the polar opposite.

The intricately interwoven guitar and bass of the former track could have been plucked from one of those atmospheric John Abercrombie albums on ECM with additional Ralph Towner like atmospherics and bassist Finlayson’s Eberhart Weber style tone colourations.

The whole piece is shot through with occasional ethereal drones that owe much to David Sylvian and Eno and act as a template for the album as a whole.

‘Ignition’ is an innovative musical journey that subtly glues together intricate acoustic guitar explorations within shifting sonic soundscapes. The latter may evolve independently, but they come together to make a coherent memorable whole.

It’s music that seeks to take you another place, whether it’s on the  Robert Fripp and Andy Summers influenced ‘Heights’, with its repeated interwoven lines, or the gentle echo laden EBow arcs  of ‘Frequency’.

But it’s the acoustic guitars that ultimately hold sway here, with the  title track being a beautifully sculpted piece on a perfect meeting of acoustic guitar and EBow’s and a distant reminder of Jonas Hellborg’s echoplex adventures.

The album celebrates tranquillity and draws on both the past and present without the pretensions of new age music.

Listen to the beautifully constructed ‘Dragon Fly’ for example, on which the pulsing bass notes, ethereal EBow effects and echoey guitar strings tap into the subconscious past, on a piece with a filmic quality.

Everything flows naturally into the closing ‘Digiwobble’ which builds from the Tongeman’s didgeridoo vibrations and Finlayson bass, via gently plucked acoustic strings into an outer worldly drone.

‘Digiwobble’ is a unique soundscape that is peppered with repeated guitar parts, portentous effects and stretched to over 8 minutes, but one that feels like the natural end to a captivating musical journey.

It’s almost as if the tracks leading into this finale were fragments of a bigger picture which is finally revealed on a magnificent track.

When it all quietly drops to silence at the end, it leaves us with the kind of void that only music with real emotional depth can fill.

So reach for your headphones, pour yourself a favourite tipple, press repeat play and head for the stars. ****

Review Pete Feenstra


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Quick plays: CARL VERHEYEN, THE MASTELOTTOS

CARL VERHEYEN - Sundial

CARL VERHEYEN Sundial (Cranktone Entertainment) [Release date 01.04.21]

More laid back Lockdown noodlings, this time from a guitarist perhaps best known for his work with Supertramp.

Verheyen’s idea was to create something varied and there were no constraints in terms of style or genre.

Of course this variety can also be an album’s weakness and we go from the West Coast/AOR vibe of ‘Sundial’, ‘Clawhammer Man’ and ‘Never Again’  to the more percussive, sub-Santana workout ‘Kaningie’ which to be honest is a bit underwhelming.

A cover of The Rascals ‘People Got To Be Free’ is played as an upbeat ska song but is far too major key whilst ‘Spiral Glide’ is Verheyen’s homage to David Gilmour.  Here there are the makings of an attractive song but it quickly descends into cod-Pink Floyd territory replete with female backing vocals.

There’s no doubting the musical talent on offer here: Verheyen’s smooth guitaring and core support from his touring band (John Madder, drums, Jim Cox, keyboards and Dave Marotta on bass).

Verheyen seems most comfortable when echoing the likes of Robben Ford and Eric Johnson but typical of some sessionist/solo guitar albums you can’t help thinking: this is all very pleasant but I am not really moved by it.  ***

Review by David Randall

THE MASTELOTTOS – Too Much Happiness A Romantic’s Guide To King Crimson (7D Media) [Release date 14.02.21]

If you’ve been looking for some online entertainment during Lockdown you may have come across Bob Fripp and Toyah strutting their stuff during their Sunday Lunch sessions.  The spirited cover versions show Fripp in a different light and in similar vein this new anthology from King Crimson drummer Pat Mastelotto gives a new twist to that band’s back catalogue.

Mastelotto and wife Deborah have homed in on the romantic side in an endeavour to show Crimson was (and is) not all bombast and bluster.

The couple realised that Lockdown brought them (and others) closer together to appreciate their relationships along with other home-based activities.  In their case it included honing work started in 2019.

The main feature of these recordings is Deborah’s jazz-inflected, part-spoken, vocal and overall this is a chill-out café-jazz offering that doesn’t necessarily have to invoke the originals.  But it might also prompt listeners to rediscover some of those eighties (and nineties) albums at least.  ***

Review by David Randall


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: ONE THOUSAND MOTELS – Get In Where You Fit In

ONE THOUSAND MOTELS – Get In Where You Fit In

Universal Music [Release date 30.04.21]

One Thousand Motels is a bit of a punk supergroup if you will, consisting of the Damned drummer Rat Scabies, and bassist/multi-instrumentalist Chris Constantinou, who has worked with Adam Ant, Sinead O’Connor, Bow Wow Wow et al. They had both previously worked together in the Mutants, who featured members drawn from various punk bands.

One Thousand Motels released their debut album, ‘2% Out Of Sync’, to rave reviews last year. Now on album number two they are joined by vocalist Sean Wheeler (Josh Homme, Robby Krieger), former Dire Straits guitarist Hal Lindes, Marc Franklin and Arthur Edmaiston from the Memphis Horns, the First Street Choir, percussionist Preston Heyman (Kate Bush, Massive Attack, Terence Trent D’Arby), harmonica player Steve “West” Weston (Roger Daltrey, Wilko Johnson), and the Specials’ horns/pianist Diz Watson.

This album has it all really, from the prison blues/gospel of ‘Spirit Flies Free’ through to the Primal Scream sounding ‘Never Forget’. Nice bit of blues piano on ‘Let Me Know’, again the distinctive gravelly vocals add to the song. The guitar solo is pretty damn fine too.

The earthy tones of Sean Wheeler can take a few spins to get used to, but he really helps lift a song like ‘Temptation’. That song swings like a good ‘un with the added horns.

Old punks never fade away, they just find new musical ways to express themselves. One Thousand Motels is great fun and I defy anyone not to be uplifted by the choral backed songs like ‘Zion’. ***1/2

Review by Jason Ritchie

Nikk Gunns adds…

One Thousand Motels is essentially The Damned’s Rat Scabies and Chris Constantinou, formerly of Adam & The Ants, and they have been joined on second album “Get In Where You Fit In” by vocalist Sean Wheeler and a cast that includes members of both the Memphis Horns and the Specials’ Horns, a choir and guitarist Hal Lindes from Dire Straits, amongst others. The result is stunning, and I do not say that lightly, the sonic textures here are layered perfectly and mix soul, blues, gospel and rock and roll – and I love it.

“Let Me Know”, “Sing a Long” and “Reel Me In” are essential listening, the latter could easily have fitted in on the soundtrack to The Blues Brother. Then we have the warm gospel glow of “Somewhere Else” and “Zion”, or the feel of New Orleans on “Tell Me” and “Never Forget”, the soulful “Blood Makes the Grass Grow Green” or the haunting melancholy of “Spirit Flies Free”, this is an album that just keeps on giving. I would love to hear Primal Scream cover “God is Good” as this sits nicely alongside anything they recorded on their own “Give Out but Don’t Give Up” album.

“Get In Where You Fit In” was recorded in London, Memphis and Palm Springs and the chemistry on this record is incredible, I am already looking forward to the next one. *****


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: ARION – Vultures Die Alone

AFM [release date: 9.04.21]

Over the 10 years since their debut, Arion have swapped teenage Eurovision notoriety for cutting edge symphonic rock. Like other Power Metal bands, their music is emphatic, and heavy on the drama. They know how to juggle bombast with slick, edgy heavy metal, creating excitement with distinctive, powerful melodies.

But there’s more to this band. And it’s something you can hear developing over the last couple of albums, culminating in Vultures Die Alone. The songs are bold, thrusting, with an underlying sense of threat . . . symphonic metal set in a shadowy, post industrial landscape.

The arangements are often beefed up with the muscle fibre of hip hop and what were once contemporary metal tropes… ‘Break My Chains’ and ‘Bloodline’s passive aggressive vocals and clipped lyrical phrasing, set against surging choral cantatas and growling choruses, nudge at the needle of the genre’s stylistic compass.

And simply by opening with the otherworldy sound of a Russian Orthodox choir, before erupting into a huge piece of intensely delivered music, ‘I Love To Be Your Enemy’ (a duet with Noora Louhimo)  declares a desire to be just as different.

As the titles might suggest, the more traditional power metal tracks, ‘Out Of My Life’ and ‘I’m Here To Save You’ carry considerable emotional freight. These two are bursting with melody and invention, structurally tight and lyrically deft, recalling Dynazty’s and Evergrey’s recent recordings.

And as is often the case, it’s the tracks that cut against the grain of the surrounding material that stand out most. The Symphonic pop metal of ‘In The Name Of Love’, a piano driven duet with Finnish pop sensation, Cyan Kicks, is not original, but is radical in the way it is presented, and is a cool piece of marketing.

But the real standout, by a considerable margin, is ‘Ocean Meets The Sky’, a widescreen instrumental track that stretches the band’s musical landscape in many different ways. It’s unusual for a Symphonic/Power Metal band to record a full length instrumental, and you can see why Arion included this one. It plays on the idea of music being a substitute for images. The track’s sumptious cinematic grooves mirror a truly climactic big screen moment, and we are encouraged to buy in. It’s an electrifying, exciting piece of music.

There can be no question, Vultures Die Alone edges this band closer to Champions’ League giants like Avantasia, Kamelot and Stratovarius. ****

Review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


EP review: SINKA – Take Me To The Skies

SINKA – Take Me To The Skies

Facebook [Release date 16.04.21]

Sinka are Shaun Sewell-Sears (vocals & guitar), Matt Smith (bass) and Jack Wright (drums), who released a self-produced debut EP, ‘F.W.Y.K’ in April 2020 (which is well worth a listen and owning). For their new EP Sinka have reunited with Elliott Millman, producer of their breakout single ‘Fussy’ which picked up airplay on BBC Radio 1’s Rock Show, Planet Rock, and more.

Sinka have carried on where their debut EP left off with another batch of memorable and anthemic alt rockers, none more so than ‘Skies’. Big chorus, big guitar chords and neat instrumental outro, what’s not to like?

Fancy another banger? ‘Messiah’ does the job with more riffs, a slinky drumbeat – reminiscent of Muse at times.

‘Tell Me My Name’ shows a quieter side of the band, also allowing them to try a few new things musically. The song also highlights the vocals of Shaun Sewell-Sears, which bring to mind bands like Muse and Feeder to this reviewer’s ears.

Sinka are a band not short of musical ideas or memorable songs as they prove again on this EP. Let’s hope they can play live sooner rather than later this year. In the meantime grab a copy of this EP. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie

Shaun Sewell-Sears gives us some more insight on the band and their new EP…

For those unfamiliar with Sinka, could you outline how the band came together and what sort of musical influences the band members each bring into Sinka’s music? 

SINKA is a 3-piece rock trio from Watford, made up of Shaun Sewell-Sears on vocals and guitar, Matt Smith on bass, and Jack Wright on drums. We all met at various times during school/college, with me and Jack going to the same high school, then meeting Matt at college where we all studied music.

A few years and several projects later, Shaun and Matt reunited to create the foundations of the band, and then in late-2019 we brought in Jack and made him learn the drums a few weeks before a gig!

Have the band been pleased with the reaction to the debut EP?

From what has been released so far, yeah. Couple of fab reviews, including your own which are always welcome! It’s quite an ambitious record which usually always makes it tough to find fans, so to hear people are enjoying the songs as much as they have been is all we could hope for!

When recording this EP were the band able to get in the same recording space at all or was it all done remotely? Did the songs and lyrics flow easily, or was it harder given normal life paused for much of last year?

We met with the producer between lockdown 1 and 2 last year, and so it was relatively normal as far as recording sessions go. The only hinderance was having to wait to finish some stuff due to more lockdowns, which we then were later able to complete and leave it with Elliott to mix in isolation.

The songs were all ready and waiting in a Dropbox folder far far away. We had around 20 to pick from and decided on the 5 tracks very quickly – naming the EP after the chorus’ opening lyric on Skies. From there it flourished, and we had the artwork created by a friend around the space theme, and just generally got in zone – not letting the outside situation shake us too much.

Is there a healthy music scene in and around Watford? Do you think rock music is still relevant and in a healthy state in 2021? 

Absolutely, there’s plenty of bands coming through Watford and surrounding areas. We have a few venues just a stone’s throw away from one another, and so always that gives us plenty of excuses to perform live.

Rock has never not been relevant, it just isn’t what the mainstream music industry is pushing. They want soloists because it’s easier for them in every possible way, and with the abundance of bedroom pop producers it’s never been simpler for them to continue that trajectory. On the state of rock music right now I really think that with bands such as Bring Me The Horizon, Architects, Slipknot, Biffy Clyro etc we are seeing evolution within the genre, and it’s reigniting the love for heavier music. It’s really exciting and I hope we can be a part of that.

What has kept the band going through the past year and any other artists we should be listening too?

The music, the listeners, and the desire to succeed. We’ve had to take COVID on the chin as much as any artist can, but we’ve also been incredibly lucky that we have been able to finish our own rehearsal studio and record 2 EPs in the past year. Right now it’s the thought of playing live and just enjoying those moments, and not taking anything for granted. This year is a lesson for everybody.

I have been listening to a lot of Enter Shikari again recently. I’m just completely absorbed into their unique sound and energy, it’s inspiring to see a constant evolution given how long they have been doing what they do.

Having now released two EPs during the current pandemic/lockdown, have the band had any chance to play these songs live, even as a live stream?

The previous EP was songs we were already playing live, so they were on the setlist for Camden Rocks and tons more, and we actually played an early version of Skies then too.

We’ve created our own studio now, so when we have been allowed we go and rehearse the tracks ready for gigging them. We also did a livestream a couple weeks ago where we played Messiah as well as an exclusive track we’re still working on that isn’t on this EP, but it was a little ropey from how fresh we all were!

We should be able to debut them on a stage very soon, so keep your eyes peeled for that.

What, apart from a return to live music, are the band most looking forward to after lockdown eases by June?

I think it’s just feeling free again – being able to go to a pub and see someone face to face, or go out to places we haven’t been in over a year. Being in a band is really hard work, like so much more than people realise, and to be able to just take a breather in the free world would be nice right now.

Message for your fans and where can we order the EP from…

Chin up, things can only get better from here – we hope to see everyone at our first gig back which is being announced soon!

The EP will be available on all streaming platforms on the 16th April, but there will be some physical CDs going up for sale. Follow us on socials @sinkaband to be in the know for these – you can get the limited artwork poster from https://sinka.bigcartel.com

 


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


News: POWERWOLF, TONY IOMMI, OPETH, TRIFECTA (April 2021)

News - Album News

Lee Aaron (pictured) will release her latest album, ‘Radio On!’, on July 23.

Bellowhead release a live album, ‘Reassembled’, on June 18. This was recorded at the band’s one-off online reunion show last December.

The Black Keys release a blues covers album ‘Delta Kream’ on May 14.

Joe Bonamassa releases ‘Now Serving: Royal Tea Live From The Ryman’ on June 11  on CD, DVD, Blu-Ray and Double LP. The DVD will include a film introduction narrated by actor Jeff Daniels.

A 2CD set called ‘The Width of a Circle’ is released on May 28 via Parlophone and features 21 recordings from David Bowie’s ‘The Man Who Sold The World’ era.

Buckcherry will release their new album, ‘Hellbound’, on June 25 via Round Hill Records.

Deen Castronovo will be working on new albums from Revolution Saints and Gioeli/Castronovo.

Chicago’s 1971 album ‘Chicago Live At Carnegie Hall’ gets a 19CD set, 50th anniversary release on July 9.

Focus release ‘Focus 50′, a 3CD/Blu-Ray package released on April 30 through In Focus Records/Cherry Red Records.

Hammer King will release their self-titled album through Napalm Records on June 11.

Tony Iommi is planning a Tony Martin era box set from Martin’s time fronting Black Sabbath.

Mick Jagger has released a new song ‘Eazy Sleazy’ featuring Dave Grohl on all instruments.

King’s X are working on their next album, however, it won’t be released until the band can tour properly again.

L.A. Guns (the Tracii Guns/Phil Lewis) version plan to release a live album in July, followed by a studio album in November.

Last In Line’s next studio album is pencilled in for a release in December.

John Lodge (The Moody Blues) releases a new digital only single, ‘The Sun Will Shine’, on April 30. A live follows in September which will include an EP of four new songs.

Massacre have signed with Nuclear Blast who will release their new album in the autumn.

30th anniversary edition of Mr. Big’s ‘Lean Into It’ (2CD/7″ single box set) album is released on July 16.

A 2CD, 42 track compilation album, ‘The Official New Wave Of Classic Rock- Volume 1′, is released on 23 July.

Of Mice & Men release a new EP, ‘Bloom’, on May 28 via SharpTone.

Ian Parry releases his latest album ‘Brute Force’ on June 4 via Metal Mind Productions.

Powerwolf will release their new album, ‘Call Of The Wild’, on July 9 via Napalm Records.

Skid Row have signed with earMUSIC and plan to release their next album in 2022.

Staind hope to complete a new studio album this year. The band release a live album on May 7.

Sufjan Stevens has shared details of a new five-volume collection called ‘Convocations’. Stevens will release one volume of the album per week, with the whole collection released by May 6 via Asthmatic Kitty.

Styx release a new EP ‘The Same Stardust’ on June 12 as part of Record Store Day. The EP includes two new songs.

This Winter Machine have announced a new line-up with only vocalist Al Winter remaining from the previous line-up. Joining him are guitarists Dom Bennison and Simon D’Vali, drummer Alan Wilson and bassist Dave Close. The band’s new album ‘Kites’ is due later this year.

Trifecta – bassist and songwriter Nick Beggs, keyboardist Adam Holzman and drummer Craig Blundell – have signed to KScope and they plan to release their debut album later this year.

Whitesnake plan to work on some Christmas music in the coming months.

The Yardbirds’ 1966 self-titled album – commonly known as ‘Roger The Engineer‘ – will be reissued as a 3CD/2LP+7” box sets by Demon on May 28.

Upcoming (new releases)

News - Tours and Gigs

Rescheduled UK & Ireland tour dates:

the Damned (Jul 2021 to Feb 2022), Enslaved (May 2021 to Feb/Mar 2022), Guns ‘N’ Roses (Jun 2021 to Jun 2021), H.E.A.T. (Oct 2021 to Oct 2022), the Hollies (Sep/Oct 2021 to May/Jun 2022), Jessica Lynn (May 2021 to May 2022), My Chemical Romance (Jun 2021 to May 2022), Opeth (Oct 2021 to Nove 2022),  Simple Minds (Aug 2021 to Aug/Sep 2022), Therapy? (Oct/Nov 2021 to Feb/Mar 2022), Uriah Heep (Sep/Oct 2021 to Sep/Oct 2022), Within Temptation + Evanescence (Sep 2021 to Apr 2022),

Cancelled UK & Ireland tour dates:

Upcoming (Gigs – UK)

Rescheduled US & European tour dates:

Guns ‘N’ Roses (Jun/Jul 2021 to Jun/Jul 2021), Iron Maiden (Jun/Jul 2021 to Jun-Aug 2022), Judas  Priest (May/Jun 2021 to May/Jun 2022), My Chemical Romance (Jul-Oct 2021 to May-Oct 2022), Opeth (Oct/Nov 2021 to Nov 2022), Rage Against The Machine (Jul/Aug 2021 to Jul/Aug 2022), Toto (Jul/Aug 2021 to Jul/Aug 2022), Roger Waters (Jul-Sep 2021 to Jul-Sep 2022), Within Temptation + Evanescence (Sep/Oct 2021 to Mar/Apr 2022),

Cancelled US & European tour dates:

Upcoming (USA/ROW)

UK Festivals 2021

Cornbury festival has been postponed for the second year running and will now take place next year between 8-10 July 2022.

Anthrax won’t be headlining the Saturday at this year’s Steelhouse festival in July. A new headliner will be announced shortly.

Gun have announced a UK tour for December.

Alestorm and Gloryhammer tour the UK together in November.

Arielle has announced a series of livestreams on May 13, June 17, July 22, and August 19. More details can be found here

Status Quo tour the UK in Feb/Mar next year.

Other Stuff

The Royal Albert Hall will host a series of celebrations to mark the venue’s 150th anniversary this year.

Dave Grohl has a book ‘The Storyteller’ published on October 5 by Simon & Schuster. “From my early days growing up in the suburbs of Washington, DC, to hitting the road at the age of 18, and all the music that followed, I can now share these adventures with the world, as seen and heard from behind the microphone.”

Guitarist Zak Rizvi has left Kansas to pursue new projects.

AC/DC’s Brian Johnson publishes his memoir ‘The Lives of Brian’ on October 26.

Loud ‘N’ Proud: Fifty Years Of Nazareth’ by Martin Popoff is published by Wymer Publishing on August 6.

Get well soon…former H.E.A.T. vocalist Erik Grönwall who is currently being treated for acute lymphocytic leukaemia.

News - RIP

Malcolm Cecil, engineer, producer, and synthesizer pioneer, who worked with Stevie Wonder amongst others

Poco co-founder Rusty Young

Producer and songwriter Jim Steinman, most famous for his work on Meat Loaf’s ‘Bat Out Of Hell’


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: GARY HUGHES – Decades

GARY HUGHES- Decades

Frontiers Records [Release Date 12.03.21]

With Gary Hughes having just released his first solo album in a long while, the simultaneous release of this generous 29 track double compilation is very timely as an opportunity to discover (or rediscover) the Ten man’s solo back catalogue.

The package is nicely done with a grateful thank you letter from the man himself, pictures of his changing tonsure over the years, and an in depth appreciation of his career in which I discovered  facts I never knew such as that he attended the prestigious Royal Northern College of Music. The only trouble is that the small and illegible typefaces on the CD left me regretting my missed eye test in lockdown.

The sequencing is not strictly chronological, but songs from the same album tend to be grouped together, making for reasonable continuity. However, putting your best foot forward, 1998’s ‘Precious Ones’ is heavily represented with the opening four tracks, and a remarkable eleven in all,  taken from that album, from a period in which he was at the peak of his creativity and most of Ten backed him on the album.  Indeed the first choice ‘Wrecking Machine’ with its thick wall of instrumentation is probably more typical of his band than solo work.

Those selections continue in fine style with ‘Perfect 10’ having a good groove to it and ‘In Your Eyes’ the feel of Whitesnake’s ‘Is This Love’, though ‘The Night Love Died’ is an example of the overwrought, overblown ballads that divide opinion in the melodic rock community.

His debut album is not represented here, presumably for licensing reasons, so the oldest material is a good chunk of songs from 1992’s self-titled effort, which was the first ever release on Now and Then Records.

In those pre-Ten days his distinctive musical identity was still a work in progress and the material at times is derivative and very much of its time. Nevertheless there are some promising moments including the excellent ‘Blonde Angel’ and a fine vocal display on ‘I Won’t Break Your Heart’. ‘Look at the Rain’ deploys strings while ‘It Must Be Love’ a good ballad that avoided his later excesses in the form.

The remasteirng sounds good to these ears but unfortunately nothing can save the quintet of poorly produced selections from 2007’s ‘Veritas’, where his songwriting was rather treading water too with the exception of ‘Synchronicity’, which stretches over eight minutes.

As ‘Precious Ones’ numbers  continue to pepper the running order, there are perhaps too many of those trademark ballads, lush, symphonic and dripping in excess sentimentality for my cynical tastes. But the slow blues of ‘heart of a Woman’ adds a fresh twist and ‘Divided We Fall’ has more of a Ten feel. ‘This Time’ is an odd one as in Billy Joel ‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’ fashion, he namechecks famous people in laundry list fashion, seemingly unconnected to the chorus.

Interestingly there are three songs from his ambitious pair of ‘Once and Future King’ concept albums, which I don’t really regard as solo albums, as they were sung in character by an all-star cast of guest vocalists. Despite the fact he sings lead on all three, they could sit uneasily here, as they follow the Ten formula of epic lyrics about historical legend and a thick sound, rather than the more personal emphasis of his solo work. However the early Magnum-ish ‘Dragon Island Cathedral’ for one is a reminder of how he was on top of his game in those days cultivating an epic songwriting style.

But the biggest treat for fans is a trio of songs that previously only appeared in the Far East on an ‘In Your Eyes’ EP during the ‘Precious Ones’ period where everything he touched turned to gold (including writing some glorious solo albums for Bob Catley). ‘ The Miracle is You’ has layered textures with a hunt of Def Lepaprd’s Hysteria and a great guitar solo from Vinny Burns,’ Fantasy Tonight’  one of those schmaltzy ballads and All Fall Down an acapella number.

Gary Hughes is always an acquired taste, and there may be a preponderance of ballads, but this value for money retrospective provides much to admire in his songwriter’s craft.    ****

Review by Andy Nathan

Album review (Waterside)


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

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Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: A RISING FORCE – Undertow

A RISING FORCE--Undertow

HighVolMusic [Release Date 07.05.21]

A Rising Force brings together several seasoned Minnesota musicians in a new band. They include guitarist Leni DiMancari, who was an original member of Hericane Alice but is better known, at least to me, as the man who assembles the supporting line up of local and national bands for the legendary Moondance Jam festival and plays in more than one himself.

The majority of those are covers acts but A Rising Force play almost entirely new material. The title track makes a striking opening, albeit a slightly misleading one- with a dark and sinister riff and  drumbeat and chant of ‘hey hey’,  briefly it threatens to be something Marilyn Manson might have performed, but it develops into a reassuringly old school heavy rocker with guitar solos and singer  Mark Westlund proving he can carry a tune and sounding a little like Mr Big’s Eric Martin.

On ‘Love and War’, which is a little more restrained, the vocal comparison that sprung to mind was Tesla’s Jeff Keith and indeed the sound on the latter’s more contemporary mid-2000s comeback ‘Into the Now‘ is as good a reference point as any for the band.

‘Crushed’ though is more AC/DC ish both in its riffery and its ‘Dog Eat Dog’ and ‘Walk All Over You’ lyrics. But on ‘Black Eyed Suzy’ Leni’s guitar sound even has a George Lynch vice, albeit the drier sound of Lynch Mob rather than the sheen of Dokken.

‘Yesterdaze Hell’,  with excerpts from various presidents including Nixon and Reagan (his infamous ‘we begin bombing Russia in five minutes’ gaffe) boasts a fine, intricate guitar solo alongside its lyrical message.

The tough rhythm section of Brian Lorenson and Lane Allen can be easily picked out through the production. If there is a criticism, it would be that most of the songs, though heavy, are a little dry and mid-paced, though ‘War Machine’  is a welcome faster change of pace, Mark’s vocals soaring and a gang-like chant of ‘Rise’.

There is a solitary cover of Warrant’s ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ which is faithfully executed, though it would have been nice to hear more original material especially given a relatively short running time.

The chunky,almost NWOBHM-esque chord progressions of ‘Retribution’ that close the album are the last in a series of killer riffs that punctuate the album.

I sense- at least judging by looking at the festival line-ups stuck in an endless cycle of repeat- that it is harder for a new act in America to break through into a moribund scene dominated by the same established interests. However this accomplished slice of honest to goodness,  traditional American hard rock with the odd modern twist has a good a chance as any.  ****

Review by Andy Nathan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: CHEZ KANE

CHEZ KANE- S/T

Frontiers Records [Release Date 12.03.21]

Chez Kane is one of three sisters fronting Kane’d, who have gained a reputation pre-pandemic as an enjoyable live act. This is her debut solo album, though equal uncredited billing goes to Danny Rexon, lead singer of Swedish glamsters  Crazy Lixx, themselves no strangers to melodic hooks.  He plays all instruments,  writes the songs and produces the album.

The project ,right down to the cover artwork poses, was to make an album that captures the unashamed spirit of the eighties, a time that both are too young to remember but when the likes of Vixen, Lita Ford, and Fiona broke heavy rock’s all-male dominance, building on the trailblazing work of Pat Benatar and Heart, and Kerrang’s ‘ladykillers’ posters decorated many of us teenage metallers teenage bedrooms.

‘Better Than Love’ is a fine opener, pure AOR with Chez’s pleasant tones calling to mind Sandi Saraya and  Robin Beck yet retaining the distinct lilt of her native Wales. A further touch of class is provided by a cool sax solo, drawing comparison with Quarterflash.

The opening four songs include a couple of disappointments-‘All Of It’ is uninspiringly repetitive,  not to say derivative of Queen’s ‘I Want It All’ and ‘Get It On’ is poppier, almost danceable and there isn’t too much of a jump to Belinda Carlisle or even a Stock Aitken Waterman confection.

However these are more than made up for a couple of glorious tunes that were released as teasers for the album:  the Vixen-ish ‘Rocket on the Radio’ sees her voice soaring in gutsy fashion on a huge chorus that is uncannily close to Blue Tears’ near namesake,  and ‘Too Late for Love’ with the stabbing keyboard intro reminding me of ‘Cryin’ by Vixen- it opens with a huge chorus, and the song  is in the mould as Brigade-eras Heart or Witness (the gold standard for female-fronted albums).

The one aspect where I had to take a deep breath was the rather processed sounding instrumentation, in particular an annoying and rather tinny drum sound, but that is less of a problem with the songs placing such an emphasis on hooks, and, being charitable, that perhaps adds to the eighties vibe.  The melodic vocals and guitar sound of  ‘Defender of the Heart’ is one in particular to be undermined by demo-like production.

‘Ball and Chain’ could not be more of a pastiche of Desmond Child’s hit songbook from the moment it begins with the chorus shouted out before a guitar break and the trademark ‘na-na’s,  but the results are glorious, for me anyway.

‘Midnight Rendezvous’ is a more out and out rocker before an impressive closing duo:  ‘Die in the Name of Love’ – the only album with a writing co-credit, from another Scandinavian master of retro AOR sounds in Michael Palace- boasts very 80’s style keyboards, both in the intro and supporting the chorus, and excellent guitar work, while ‘Dead End Street’ is a classy end to the album with glorious melodic hooks, smoothly sung with a touch of Pat Benatar and more sax sounds on the outro. Indeed by the third listening it had overtaken the more instant songs as my favourite on the album.

In the present melodic rock world there is a surprising shortage of new acts emerging, Issa apart, to match those female trailblazers, which may be why this album has generated such a buzz. It may be a pastiche and uneven in places but with hooks that very effectively hark back to those days and lodge in your brain, the twin creators have accomplished their mission. Hearing these anthems belted out live is something to look forward to in a post-vaccine world!  ****

Review by Andy Nathan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: SMITH KOTZEN (Adrian Smith, Richie Kotzen)

SMITH KOTZEN (Adrian Smith, Richie Kotzen)

BMG [Release date 26.03.21]

What have rock stars been doing in Lockdown?  Streaming, recycling back catalogue, a bit of gardening, maybe even new material.  And some have joined forces with others.  Strength in numbers, or something.

Adrian Smith (Iron Maiden) and Richie Kotzen (Poison, Mr Big, Winery Dogs) have pitted their combined guitaring and songwriting skills to fashion nine tracks of pure unadulterated hard rock heaven.

Smith has only ever produced one “solo” album (i.e. under his own name) – ASAP in 1989 – whilst Kotzen has been highly productive since his stint with Mr Big and continuing a solo career that started in 1989.

The two musicians originally met up by chance in Los Angeles in the 1990s and kept in touch, both having equal respect for their respective musical activities.  It is only more recently they’ve managed to hook up again with something more musical in mind although strictly speaking this liaison took place before Lockdown happened in early 2020.

There is absolutely no filler in this enterprise which is characterised by the musicians’ good taste, knowing just when to drop in that ear candy solo and when to leave it out.

It’s the songs that shine through, and whilst occasionally this sounds more like a Kotzen album with a special guest that has mainly to do with the song stylings and Kotzen’s distinctive vocal phrasing.

Standouts? Well, it’s all good but the three opening tracks have all been early singles which tells you the quality and immediacy here.

‘Glory Road’ (and to a lesser extent ‘Some People’) reminds of Bad Company but overall there’s a definite homage feel to those bands that both musicians grew up with, including Mk III Deep Purple (the twin vocal thing) and Whitesnake (at their bluesy best).

‘Til Tomorrow’ is more a showcase for Smith but promises more than it delivers.  There’s something amiss with the production, not least the drumming, and the mix which makes it sound more like a demo.  The rhythm guitars are muddy and lost. Half a star docked for that.  It’s potentially a great song.  Perhaps Kevin ‘Caveman’ Shirley is losing his touch?

‘Scars’ is a six minute meltdown of smouldering blues rock and a great showcase for this dynamic duo.  There’s a touch of Glenn Hughes in Smith/Kotzen’s vocals.  Ageing rockers are not always best placed or disposed to sing of love and longing but it’s on display here and repeated on the southern-rock tinged ‘I Wanna Stay’.

Well, it is spring when a young man’s fancy etc.  A wizened old reviewer’s thoughts, on the other hand, tend to turn to albums of the year.  Three months in and this is a sure contender.  Let’s hope this partnership is more than just a Lockdown bromance.  ****1/2

Review by David Randall


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: GARY HUGHES – Waterside

GARY HUGHES- Waterside

Frontiers Records [Release Date 12.03.21]

It’s been a relatively quiet period for Gary Hughes,  the usually prolific Ten mainman- over two years since Ten’s last album but a whopping  14 since his last album under his own name. Now, on the London bus principle, two appear, a compilation and this collection of ten new tunes.

However the choice of opener subverts usual convention never to start an album with a ballad, and risks alienating the casual listener-  the clumsily titled ‘All at Once It Feels Like I Believe’ kicks off with a lengthy piano intro, and is lushly arranged with schmaltzy lyrics. To be fair, nearly three minutes in Dann Rosingana’s guitar kicks in with a sweet solo, a feat he repeats on ‘Electra-Glide’, which although rockier is still led by Darrel Treece-Birch’s piano.

‘Lay Down’ shows off that Gary’s  voice at its best is somewhat redolent of vintage David Coverdale and a Beatles- in- psychedelic- phase intro gives way to a good groove and a melodic guitar solo, all  given time to unfurl over a generous near eight minutes.

I was a little puzzled by his sleeve note reference to ‘a slice of Anglo-Americana’. However a couple of times he dips his toe for the first time in Atlantic waters (pun intended) with a pair of highly enjoyable songs. ‘Runaway Damned’ which has the heartland  influences of the E Street Band and Bob Seger, right down to his more gravelly delivery (others more familiar with his work referenced the young Neil Diamond). And the title track is built on a riff that calls to mind ‘Copperhead Road’ while Dann lets rip on guitar in an angular but fluid style.

The Mancunian delivers his usual elaborate and eloquent lyrics, though other than the evils of social media being dissected in ‘Video Show’ (one of the numbers where his tendency to blandness is exposed) they seem to fall into two categories;  the ornately expressed  love ballads and the dated trope of the femme fatale on the rockier numbers.

The former are represented by ‘Screaming in the Half Light’ which is a vocal duet with very talented son Scott who sounds strangely similar albeit with a higher register, and ‘When Love is Done’ in a ballad’s more usual position as last song on the album.

The latter include two of my favourites that come back to back late in the album, ‘Save My Soul’ with the chugging feel of eighties ZZ Top and catchy both in its chorus and the bridge, and ‘Seduce Me’, the heaviest number on view with Dann let off the leash for the first time.

The album as a whole is very classy and a good production (mixed and mastered by the genre’s top figure Dennis Ward) gives space for his warm, deep voice that is often drowned in Ten’s more wall of sound arrangements, although  the absence of real-sounding  drums is felt at times.

Gary Hughes’  writing and singing style has always divided opinion so it may not win any new fans, but this is a varied and bold album. Not all the songs worked for me, but I found it a particularly praiseworthy effort as he offers something a little different from melodic rock’s production line tendencies and it is a real grower worth investing a bit of time in. ****

Review by Andy Nathan

Album review (Decades, retrospective)


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: THE FLEUR DE LYS – Circles: The Ultimate

THE FLEUR DE LYS – Circles The Ultimate

Countdown Records / Acid Jazz [Release date 26.3.21]

Formed in Southampton in 1964, The Fleur De Lys had an ever-changing line up during their short lifetime, the mainstay being drummer Keith Guster who has assisted with this new 25 track set. It includes all of the collectible singles released for Immediate, Polydor and Atlantic, along with plenty more besides, ranging in style from R&B through freakbeat, psych, and back into club soul.

Their early set list consisted of R&B and soul standards. Signed by Immediate Records, Gordon Haskell had joined on bass in time for their second single in 1966. This was a superb version of The Who’s ‘Circles’, a freakbeat anthem which featured a wild distorted solo courtesy of Phil Sawyer. The gutsy ‘So Come On’ comfortably sits alongside the best output by better known groups of the era such as The Action and The Creation.

Sawyer departed for the Shotgun Express (and later the Spencer Davis Group) and was replaced by Bryn Haworth. His influence was immediately felt on the organ-drenched B-side ‘Hold On’, released under the Rupert’s People moniker. The opening bars of ‘Gong With The Luminous Nose’, which features Haskell on vocals, were clearly purloined by Paul Weller for ‘Sunflower’!

After Haskell’s departure, the band became the first British band to sign Atlantic (Led Zeppelin being the second!) and released the infectious blue-eyed soul number ‘Stop Crossing The Bridge’.

Of the rarer tracks here, the demo of ‘Love Them All’ (co-written by John Bromley and Graham Dee) suggests this could have been a hit single had it been fully realised. There are also a couple of choice covers alongside the original material – Buddy Holly’s ‘Moondreams’ and ‘I’ve Been Trying’ by The Impressions – as well as tracks recorded with songstress Sharon Tandy. The powerful ‘Liar’ was one of the final releases associated with the band, who fizzled out later in 1969.

Compiled by Eddie Piller and Dean Rudland, the story of the Fleur De Lys is thoroughly annotated by Paul ‘Smiler’ Anderson in a booklet which also includes several photographs and images of the original 7” singles. ****

Review by Jim Henderson


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: UNDERKING – At Hell’s Gate

Underking - At Hell's Gate

Bandcamp [Release date 23.04.21]

Underking is in fact a one-man band consisting of Maxwell Jeffries hailing from Nottingham and this is Underking’s third album. Maxwell has been working on this album for over a year, with the songs covering “topics and stories that I’m passionate about, from sci-fi and fantasy to world events and mental health and the music also reflects where I’m at currently in my career.” The production/sound is very good and one for the headphones on certain songs.

Good mix of styles on ‘At Hell’s Gate’, from the epic metal on ‘Shadow I’ve Become’ through to the instrumental ‘Oblivion’, which features plenty of skilful guitar playing. Shades of Savatage and Iron Maiden in the guitar sound. For a real dandruff shaker ‘Embrace The Arcane’ does the job. The riffs on this one are massive and then some.

Maxwell’s vocals are pretty decent too, similar to fellow Brit metal band Intense. Strong enough to be heard over the musical metal assault, yet never straining to be heard.

The album’s final track ‘No Mercy’ is the only one to feature any guest musicians and in this case a whole host of Underking’s fans and band members from fellow metal acts contribute to the metal choir added to the song’s chorus. Also Charlotte Corry plays sax on this one with Dustin Parlier of Two Eyes Open on co-vocals.

The bonus track is something totally different, a cover of ‘Halloween’ by the Misfits, by way of an Underking overhaul.

For a self-produced album Underking packs a satisfying metal filled punch. SF/fantasy lyrics, plenty of riffs and solos, big choruses, listenable vocals – what’s not to like for those who like their metal traditional with a hint of the grandiose. ***1/2

Review by Jason Ritchie

 Max Jeffries gives us a bit more background on Underking and the new album…

For those unfamiliar with Underking how did the band/project come about?

Underking came about after my old band Rage Cave split up. I needed a new outlet for my music and I after trying to find members, to no avail, I decided to go it alone! This lets me have full creative control over my music which is pretty cool! I’ve been able to cover everything from hardcore, to classic NWOBHM, to thrash and ballads so far – so its definitely a very varied project.

At Hell’s Gate is all your own work, bar a couple of guests. How easy or difficult is it to create music on your own? Ie do you perhaps miss the ideas that may come out of a band situation.

It’s definitely not easy but it is very fulfilling – I enjoy it very much. I do miss having people around to bounce ideas off and share the excitement with which can be difficult at times but I think the freedom being solo allows outweighs that! The feeling of getting an idea, recording it and having full control over every instrument is amazing!

What made you want to start making music and who are your main musical influences?

Music has always been a big part of my life. Ever since I was little I’ve been surrounded by it and it was only a matter of time before I got into it seriously really! I started to develop a really intense interest in music at around 9 or 10, loving stuff by Dragonforce, Owl City, Sum 41, Rammstein – a real melting pot of influences. Over time though, the bands that have really stuck with me and influence me are Judas Priest, Ghost, Kvelertak, Megadeth – too many to name. I’m really interested in harmony, so anything with a catchy tune either on the guitar or sung inspires me to try and write something!

How did the idea for the Metal backing choir arise on No Mercy? You also use sax on this one which almost gives it a folk metal feel. Again, where did that idea come from?With the current lockdown looking to ease are you planning any live shows for later this year?

The idea of the choir was pretty simple really! I wanted to create a big, epic closer for the album and when I was asking Dustin and Charlotte if they wanted to appear on the track, I thought why not get some fans involved! I spread the word online and soon had people singing on my track from all over the world! It was an incredible experience and one of the highlights of my music career so far!

With the saxophone, that was inspired by Ghost’s epic instrumental track – Miasma from their latest record! I distinctly remember being blown away when I heard that for the first time and whilst the sax in No Mercy is a little less ‘in your face’, I still think it adds something really special to the track.

With the current lockdown looking to ease are you planning any live shows for later this year?

I am currently trying to put a live band together! So hopefully, all being well, I should be able to start playing some shows!

How has the pandemic affected your songwriting as this is an album that has been recorded since March 2020.

The pandemic has allowed me to write a lot more music than usual. As I record everything it home, I’ve had a lot more time to just sit and play my guitar, record and come up with ideas. It’s been very rewarding and as much as I love releasing songs at my current rate, I am looking forward to slowing things down a little once the world opens up!

Message for your fans and where can we buy the album from…

Thank you so much for having me and to everyone who’s listened to/supported Underking so far! The album, At Hell’s Gate, will be available everywhere (Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music etc…) on the 23rd of April! If you want to keep up to date with what I’m doing – you can follow Underking on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: REACH – The Promise Of A Life

REACH – The Promise Of A Life

Facebook [Release date 23.04.21]

Reach was founded in 2012 and settled on a power trio consisting of Ludvig Turner (vocals, guitars), Marcus Johansson (drums) and Soufian Ma´Aoui (bass). Reach have released two albums prior to this one and have played their native Sweden with H.E.A.T. in February last year, plus they are due to support H.E.A.T. on their European tour due later this year.

They start the album off with a bit of whistling on ‘New Frontier’, a big, OTT modern rocker, which is quickly followed by ‘The Law’. This song provides another dose of heaviness meets pomp – Muse are a good comparison. Then, just when you think you have the measure of Reach up pops ‘Young Again’ which sounds uncannily like Panic! At The Disco at times. Wonderful music and the album keeps on giving as ‘Satellite’ has that modern melodic rock sound of H.E.A.T.

‘Higher Ground’ is a quirky beast, full of ebbs and flows, a full on metal breakdown part and a soaring chorus. Reminded me a little of A.C.T. another band who like to pomp it up. ‘Motherland’ also sees the band reach for their musical limits, pooling together all sorts of musical influences to create an album stand out.

Ludvig Turner can certainly hit those falsetto notes, which along with the band’s love of pushing musical ideas to the nth degree, means it won’t be for everyone. However, if you like the OTT and pomp of Queen and Muse, Reach are perfect for you and your album collection. This is a very impressive and enjoyable album. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,

Check out videos here: https://www.facebook.com/getreadytorockradio




David Randall presents a weekly show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, Sundays at 22:00 GMT, repeated on Mondays and Fridays), when he invites listeners to ‘Assume The Position’. The show signposts forthcoming gigs and tours and latest additions at getreadytorock.com. First broadcast 26 April 2026.


UK Blues Broadcaster of the Year (2020 and 2021 Finalist) Pete Feenstra presents his weekly Rock & Blues Show on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT as part of a five hour blues rock marathon “Tuesday is Bluesday at GRTR!”. The show is repeated on Wednesdays at 22:00, Fridays at 20:00). First broadcast on 21 April 2026

How to Listen Live?

Click the programming image at the top of the page (top right of page if using desktop)

Get Ready to ROCK! Radio is also in iTunes under Internet Radio/Classic Rock
Listen in via the Tunein app and search for “Get Ready to ROCK!” and save as favourite.

More information and links at our radio website where you can listen live or listen again to shows via the presenter pages: getreadytorockradio.com


Power Plays w/c 25 May 2026

BABY JANE Midnight Highway (Sped Up) (indie)
ASTRAL ROCKS The Flame In Me (Astral Rocks Prodns.)
INDIGO SYNDICATE dwn4smr (indie)
THE SKBS The Prying Eye (indie)
AGAINST THE CURRENT Dead Man Walking (indie)
ICONIC Tears Keep On Falling (Frontiers)

Featured Albums w/c 25 May 2026

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2025 (Singer Songwriter)


Our occasional Newsletter signposts latest additions to the website(s). We also include a selection of recent top albums, based on GRTR! reviewer ratings.  The newsletter is sent out a few times a year.

If you’d like to register to receive this occasional mailing please complete the form:

If using a smartphone/tablet please tap here or re-orientate your device

(Note that this registration is separate from site registration which allows you to leave comments and receive daily emails about new content. If you wish to register for this – in addition or separately – please click or tap here – for more information – the form is at the foot of each page. Please read our privacy policy when opting-in to receive emails.


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: TARJA – Frisson Noir

THE PALACE GUARD – All Night Long An Anthology 1965-1966

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Album review: THE PALACE GUARD – All Night Long: An Anthology 1965-1966

THE PALACE GUARD – All Night Long An Anthology 1965-1966

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Album review: THE L.A. MAYBE – Dirty Damn Tricks

THE L.A. MAYBE - Dirty Damn Tricks

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Gig review: JOE BONAMASSA – Live Stream, Austin City Limits Live, Austin, Texas – Thursday April 1, 2021

Joe Bonamassa - Live Stream, 1 April 2021

There’s almost an irony about Joe Bonamassa livestream coming from Austin, Texas, which in the late ‘80s was coined ‘live music capital of the world’ by Austin Music Network’s Ronnie Mack, before officially being designated as such in 1991. Quite … Continue reading

Album review: THE GHOST OF LEMORA – Love Can Be Murder

THE GHOST OF LEMORA – Love Can Be Murder

Resurrection Records [Release date 12.02.21] Originally formed in London in 2001, The Ghost of Lemora have released two studio albums and a couple of EPs. This new album has been in the works for a number of years  being delayed … Continue reading

Album review: SCREAMACHINE – Screamachine

scream machine

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News: Albums of the Month (January 2021 – March 2021)

Albums of the Month (January-March 2021)

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EP review: CAPTAIN NAYSAYER

CAPTAIN NAYSAYER

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Album review: EL COLOSSO – Forgotten Ancestors

El Colosso – Forgotten Ancestors

Bandcamp [Release date 17.12.20] This independent release containing 7 tracks is the follow up to El Colosso’s debut Album, ‘Pathways’, which was released in 2017. El Colosso are a Melbourne based heavy rock band, comprising Benny James Pertzel (Dirty York … Continue reading

Album review: THE DUST CODA – Mojo Skyline

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Album review: BLAZE BAYLEY – War Within Me

BLAZE BAYLEY – War Within Me

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Album review: SERENADE THE STARS – Astronomy

SERENADE THE STARS - Astronomy

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Album review: THUDWAIL – Ignition

Thudwail - Ignition

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Quick plays: CARL VERHEYEN, THE MASTELOTTOS

CARL VERHEYEN - Sundial

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Album review: ONE THOUSAND MOTELS – Get In Where You Fit In

ONE THOUSAND MOTELS – Get In Where You Fit In

Universal Music [Release date 30.04.21] One Thousand Motels is a bit of a punk supergroup if you will, consisting of the Damned drummer Rat Scabies, and bassist/multi-instrumentalist Chris Constantinou, who has worked with Adam Ant, Sinead O’Connor, Bow Wow Wow … Continue reading

Album review: ARION – Vultures Die Alone

Arion-Vultures-Die-Alone-Artwork

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EP review: SINKA – Take Me To The Skies

SINKA – Take Me To The Skies

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News: POWERWOLF, TONY IOMMI, OPETH, TRIFECTA (April 2021)

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Album review: GARY HUGHES – Decades

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Album review: A RISING FORCE – Undertow

A RISING FORCE--Undertow

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Album review: CHEZ KANE

CHEZ KANE- S/T

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Album review: SMITH KOTZEN (Adrian Smith, Richie Kotzen)

SMITH KOTZEN (Adrian Smith, Richie Kotzen)

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Album review: GARY HUGHES – Waterside

GARY HUGHES- Waterside

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Album review: THE FLEUR DE LYS – Circles: The Ultimate

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Album review: UNDERKING – At Hell’s Gate

Underking - At Hell's Gate

Bandcamp [Release date 23.04.21] Underking is in fact a one-man band consisting of Maxwell Jeffries hailing from Nottingham and this is Underking’s third album. Maxwell has been working on this album for over a year, with the songs covering “topics … Continue reading

Album review: REACH – The Promise Of A Life

REACH – The Promise Of A Life

Facebook [Release date 23.04.21] Reach was founded in 2012 and settled on a power trio consisting of Ludvig Turner (vocals, guitars), Marcus Johansson (drums) and Soufian Ma´Aoui (bass). Reach have released two albums prior to this one and have played … Continue reading