Album review : STATUS QUO – The Early Years 1966-69 (5 CD boxset)

BMG/Sanctuary Records [Release date : 15.03.24]

This 5 CD, Early Years boxset is one of the most interesting of the Status Quo back catalogue repackaging of recent times.

It tracks us through the band’s startup moments in the early sixties, when they were originally known as The Spectres, then Traffic Jam, before changing to Status Quo in 1967.

There’s a full CD here (CD2) of pre Quo tracks, 24 in all, some of them album material, others, esp the Traffic Jam tracks, are taken from BBC Radio sessions of good sound quality, just prior to the eventual name change.

More BBC sessions come later in the boxset.

A number of interviews – with Francis Rossi and Alan Lancaster – are spread throughout the five CDs, one with the late, great Brian (Saturday Club) Matthew.

The Spectres most notable single release was ‘I Who Have Nothing’, an English language version of an Italian original. Ben E King had a huge hit with the song in 1963.

The follow up single releases, ‘We Ain’t Got Nothing Yet’ (a cover of the Blues Magoos US hit) and ‘Hurdy Gurdy Man’ (not the Donovan song) are here. The latter, written by Alan Lancaster, is a quirkily catchy pop song. Neither of them made a mark.

This was 1966, the same year The Beatles and the Stones were regularly the UK’s top charting bands.

Eventually, the band and its management noted that the music industry was in the commercial grip of psychedelic pop.

The Picturesque Matchstickable Messages album (CDs1 and 2), first released in 1968, yielded two UK Top Ten hits, ‘Pictures Of Matchstick Men’ and ‘Ice In The Sun’ (written by Marty Wilde). Despite that, and the cherry picked inclusion of two covers, one of the Lemon Pipers’ ‘Green Tambourine’ and the other of Tommy Roe’s ‘Sheila’ (both huge US hits), the album failed to chart. Follow up album, Spare Parts, suffered the same fate.

Time for a rethink. Ma Kelly’s Greasy Spoon was released in 1970, but that’s for another day.

Meantime, there’s a wealth of A-sides, B-Sides, Demos and Outtakes from the sixties on CD4. 16 tracks in all, inc alternate takes of ‘…Matchstick Men’, and two punchy cover versions of the Everly Brothers’ ‘Price Of Love’ (a no.2 hit for the brothers in 1965).

CD 5 is densely populated with the band’s several BBC Sessions during the years 1968 and 1969. 18 tracks in all.

Again, the band show sound judgement in their choice of cover versions. The Bee Gees’ ‘Spicks And Specks’, an Antipodean and European hit for the Gibb brothers; ‘Judy In Disguise’, a huge worldwide hit for John Fred, and a cover of Van Morrison’s (much covered) ‘Gloria’. There’s another interview and two more versions of ‘Price Of Love’.

Plus of course all the self penned stuff from the Spectres’ albums.

Let the statistics show that Status Quo have released more than 100 singles over the years, and have spent over 400 weeks on the singles’ charts. Plus of course over 500 weeks on the album charts.

This is where it all began. *****

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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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 : LIPZ – Changing The Melody

Frontiers [Release date : 15.03.24]

Debut album from young Swedish quartet, Lipz, in which they attempt to breathe life into a dying genre, Glam Rock. We’re told.

But how do you define “Glam Rock”?

Would that be the early eighties, when the Glam Rock/Sleaze Rock/ Bandana Rock genre was kicking into high gear on LA’s Sunset strip?

Had Lipz been part of that First US Wave, then in comparison, you might well have branded the music of fellow travellers, Motley Crue, Ratt and Poison as grimy and transgressive.

Lipz could do with some of that grime and transgression. The only other band to come near succeeding today (with their harder rocking version of the genre) is Wigwam. Lessons to be learned.

But Lipz play it straight, walking a high wire between AOR, Pop and Glam, doing their best to get the balance just right. Fair enough.

Standouts, ‘Changing The Melody’, ‘Bang Bang’ and ‘I’m Alive’ just crackle with kinetic energy, bringing together all of the band’s derivative rock strengths in a pulsing mix of stomping hooks and rhythmic hard edged Pop.

‘Bye Bye Beautiful’ is full of attitood and Boyband chutzpah. All that’s missing is a key change on the coda.

The inevitable ballad, ‘Freak’ has every Boyband ever’s fingerprints all over it, Alex K Klintberg’s androgynous vocals are a perfect fit. This truly is an outstanding slice of hard edged Poprock, showing great imagination in an arrangement that slows the music down then speeds it up as the mood changes.

Another pop ballad, ‘I Would Die For You’ is maybe a bit too saccharine for the image the band is attempting to create, despite its explosive chorus.

The album ends on a real high. ‘Monsterz’ has a sturdy, muscular melody, worked up into a strong Pop/AOR song with surprisingly perceptive, grown up lyrics, despite the song title spelling.

On the downside, the production is often a bit thin, masked by this young band’s driving, infectious energy. Not every song reaches escape velocity, but the ones that make it are worthy of our attention. ***

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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: RICHARD TRETHEWEY, THE SCHMOOZENBERGS

Richard Trethewey - Two Halves

Richard Trethewey – Two Halves [Release date 15.03.24]

Second album from Cornish musician Richard Trethewey is one that was first imagined for vinyl, as side one is songs inspired from Cornwall’s river estuaries, whilst side two would feature songs based on Cornwall’s industrial heritage.

Couple of real stand outs are ‘Queen of the Cornish Rhine’, based on a visit by Queen Victoria to Fal in 1846 and a seven-cannon salute arranged by local magistrate John Gwatkin with his own cannon. The song takes a look at what may have happened if said gun salute went wrong…

‘The Sounds of the Mine’ is an evocative recreation of Cornish mining, from the sounds of mining through to the storytelling lyrics, a perfect piece of folk music if ever there was one.

An album of traditional sounding folk songs, albeit all written by Richard, it will delight traditional folkies, as well as those artists who like to bring folk music into modern times, like Ninebarrow. ***1/2

The Schmoozenbergs – Mouse [Release date 15.03.24]

Ooh we do like a good instrumental album here at GRTR! Towers and the Schmoozenbergs have provided us with a belter! They mix jazz, Celtic, Balkan, swing and more into a delightful foot tapping mix.

The double bass playing of Ron Phelan combined with the violin of Gina Griffin is something rather special. Always lively, played with undoubted passion and a smile on their faces. Not to be forgotten are the two guitarists, Sam Stennett and Tom Brydon-Smith, who are both fleet fingered players and certainly add extra vim ‘n’ vigour to the faster passages of music.

Not for the background this one, more a uplifting album to put on after a long day or just if if you are in the mood for a jig. ***1/2

Ma Polaine's Great Decline - Molecules

Ma Polaine’s Great Decline – Molecules Bandcamp [Release date 22.03.24]

Ma Polaine’s Great Decline are a duo consisting of Beth Parker (vocals, harmonica) and Clinton Hough (guitars), with bassist Nick Pini (who has been a touring band member for the likes of Tom Jones, Mary-Chapin Carpenter and Seth Lakeman) and drummer Jimmy Nordon rounding out the line-up on this record.

Recorded at the Bert Jansch Studio, the album has a raw, minimal sound allowing each instrument/musician to be heard clearly. Beth Parker has that mesmerising country meets West Coast sound to her vocals. In a fairer musical world songs like ‘Alone’ and the upbeat country of ‘Say Goodbye’ would be all over the daytime radio playlists.

They have the pop nous of Fleetwood Mac, coupled with the expansive country sound of say Nanci Griffith or Mary-Chapin Carpenter. It appeals to fans of the country & Americana genres, yet has enough pop about it to gain them a deserved wider audience. ***1/2

Reviews 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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: GUN – 100 Club, London, 29 February 2024

GUN- 100 Club, London, 29 February 2024

Gun’s profile is set to be higher in 2024 than at any time since they reformed, with songs being used in a Samuel L Jackson movie, festival dates already announced and most importantly a new album in ‘Hombres’, their first of all new material in nearly seven years.

The Scots undertook a series of dates to promote the new release with ticket and album bundles, a brave move considering its release was still a few weeks away, and after initially filling slowly, by showtime the London leg at the 100 Club was packed. The only dampener was some stage lighting that must have made the numerous pro photographers at the front wince.

There were a few line-up changes with a trio of female backing singers and a new second guitarist in the long-haired, youthful Ru MacFarlane. Very much still there were the Gizzi brothers, singer Dante coming on stage in typically casual manner wearing a thick reefer jacket that he somehow managed to wear all set without sweating.

GUN- 100 Club, London, 29 February 2024

Appropriately for an album launch they opened with a new song in the instantly catchy ‘Lucky Guy’ before a trip back to last album ‘Favourite Pleasures’ in ‘Here I Am’ which had slightly more of an indie feel with Dante singing in a low register.

What was immediately apparent was guitarist Guliano ‘Jools’ Gizzi playing with more fire and animation than for some while and this impression continued during the first of a smaller number of oldies than usual in ‘Don’t Say Its Over’, the crowd punching the air to the chorus while Paul McManus  produced some added drum fills with a flourish.

With a neat symmetry, impressive (the clichéd desire/higher couplet apart) brand new single ‘All Fired Up’ gave way to their very first in ‘Better Days’, Dante working the crowd, who were particularly raucous shouting out the ‘for better days’ as the counterpoint line on the chorus.

There were then a series of new numbers with ‘You Are What I Need’ one of the less immediate, then by the time of the instantly catchy ‘Boys Don’t Cry’ and ‘Falling’, Ru was taking his first couple of solos of the night very impressively.

GUN- 100 Club, London, 29 February 2024

A final newie in ‘Take Me Back Home’ had a raw energy that reminded me in the verses of former counterparts The Almighty, indeed summing up the musical vibe of the night.

Nevertheless most of us hankered after some old favourites and were belatedly rewarded with ‘Steal Your Fire’. It was dedicated to one of their contemporaries, Skin guitarist Myke Gray now in a parallel career as a photographer: indeed after he was singing the song’s praises, Dante cheekily instructed him to put his camera away. Ru moved centre stage for an excellent solo, reminding me in style and tone of fellow Scot Brian Robertson, and it was followed, as at nearly every Gun show, by ‘Shame On You’ with plenty of bouncing around.

Although that was the official end of the setlist, feeding off the enthusiasm of the crowd, they returned for an encore of another of those debut album anthems that never get old in ‘Inside Out’. The set was a little on the short side at an hour but this was no ordinary gig, instead a chance to familiarise the crowd with new material. The strength of those songs on first listen suggests that Gun are an act rejuvenated and well worth seeing again later this year for a full length set.

Review and Photos 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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: EDIT THE TIDE – Reflections In Sound

Facebook [Release date 26.04.24]

Bridgend’s Edit The Tide emerged in April 2023 and are now poised to make a big splash with their inaugural EP, ‘Reflections in Sound’ this April 2024. Comprising accomplished musicians who’ve shared stages with rock giants, their debut EP is more than an introduction—it’s a heartfelt narrative of the tumultuous past years, resonating with sincere words and music.

‘Reflections In Sound’ marks the band’s inception and explores their transformative journey through the digital music industry, reflecting on life changes and friendship bonds. Edit The Tide’s brand new five tracks showcase innovative growth, diverse styles, and poignant lyrical depth. Released on 26th April 2024 (marking their first anniversary), this debut EP positions Edit The Tide as emerging leaders in the UK rock/metal music community.

”Ambience” – really liked this as an opening track. Immediately could tell this is a band in could easily get into as I’m a stickler for a good guitar solo in the middle. This track didn’t disappoint.

It was giving me little a little hint that the tracks would get heavier sound wise as the EP went along.

With it being part of the two-part theme with previous single ‘Skylines’ (released in August last year) serves as a prequel both in music video format and as a full story. Thus making this a very apt and cleverly thought out track placement for the EP.

“unite and rebel” well if that isn’t a track title after my own heart I don’t know what is.
This was musically heavier and vocally was giving me some metal growls which is a thumbs up for me and shows great vocal range as I’ve tried this myself and it’s not easy to do! The guitar solo was more intricate than the previous track. Have to say this track was played a couple of times over.

Considering the theme of the song was about the pandemic and the impact it had on us and the failure of those who were supposed to protect us. So the angst was reflected musically and lyrically.

“paradigm”  I was immediately slapped by the dirty and gritty bass. This was musically an absolute chefs kiss! I would love to hear this track live. Hands down best track of the EP for me. Melodically was kick ass throughout.

This track discusses how we’re born slaves to the machine, to not settle for the boring and mundane expectations and find that passion to make the best of their lives.

“With regret” This track is about not letting your life be impacted by regret. You have to keep moving forward and learn from mistakes. I’ve definitely been there recently! So by gosh did this track resonate with me personally.

This track started off with a mellow introduction coming into a hard hitting impactful musical and lyrical symphony that I’m sure when I learn the lyrics fully, I shall be belting this at the top of my lungs. Absolutely stellar track and the chorus is absolutely stunning!

“The moment” In a nutshell, this song is about never giving up. When life hits you hard and throws you some curveballs, you have to get up, brush yourself off and keep going. What a way to end an EP. Vocally stunning and passionate and the melody was infectious. A belt out song for sure.

Overall this EP packed a punch in every aspect. It struck a cord with me with not only mental health being an issue close the band’s heart, but myself as a reviewer, making this EP instantly connect and resonate with me.

Lyrically and musically outstanding and I’m looking forward to seeing what is next for this amazing band. I shall also be interested in seeing them live. If this is anything to go by. I’m sure I’m in for a treat! ****

Review by Lucy Parr


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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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 : ALTERIUM – Of War And Flames

AFM Records [Release date : 08.03.24]

Alterium is a new Italian Symphonic Metal quintet led by Nicoletta Rosellini (ex. Kalidia), a talented artist who juggles several media related careers. She also fronts Goth Metal band, Walk In The Darkness.

Of War And Flames is the band’s debut album.

This is a tight, tight outfit. Even when aiming for that epic sweep, taking the music from zero to heroic heights in the course of four minutes – as with ‘Firebringer’ and ‘Crossroads’ – they don’t put a foot wrong.

Producer, Lars (Freedom Call) Rettkowitz has the obsessive’s eye for fine textural detail. He makes sure the arrangements don’t shift too far from the band’s lush, widescreen style of Symphonic Metal, mainlining us into a world of romantic imagery with ‘Crystalline’, and the escalating operatic rush of ‘Heroine Of The Sea’.

The advance guard – three trailer tracks – released progressively over the last 3 months, were exciting blasts of tuneful symphonic metal that had already marked out the band as a talent to watch.

The first, ‘Drag Me To Hell’ skilfully parades two intertwining melodies in among the breathless, hi speed bpms. It’s the album’s poster boy, able and agile, neatly bypassing the generic stuff that passes for Symphonic Metal nowadays.

‘Of War And Flames’ the track, cranks into sonic overdrive quickly, cresting an intro of powerful choral work and classy piano/strings interplay, rising to a dark and brooding chorus. It’s the kind of impassioned stuff that demands a big canvas, and it gets one.

Sometimes in this genre, when what you expect are sharp edges, overblown arrangements and martial beats, what you get is tastefully tailored symphonic metal arrangements and a singer who knows how to modulate.

That’s clearly the case with ‘Sirens Call’ and ‘Shadowsong’. Both are sympathetically orchestrated love songs, classy and classic. Each with imaginative arrangements and lilting, swiftly moving melodies, revealing a vulnerabity in Rosellini’s vocals that spin a melancholy lyric into something substantial and believable.  ****

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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: CARL PALMER – Fanfare For The Common Man

Carl Palmer

BMG [Release date 05.04.24]

Drummer Carl Palmer has had a long and distinguished career, most notably as a founder of prog rock super group Emerson Lake & Palmer. Prior to that he’d toured with Arthur Brown and co-founded Atomic Rooster, and subsequently played with Asia. That’s a lot of quality music, spanning several genres of rock music and seven decades.

This wonderful box covers highlights over 3CDs, and a host of rare video footage filling a blu-ray.

Carl trained as a percussionist from an early age, and from the outset his jazz influences are obvious.

Disc 1 here features highlights of his work with Emerson, Lake & Palmer. This prog rock trio, featuring keyboard wizard Keith Emerson (ex The Nice) and bassist/guitarist/vocalist Greg Lake (formerly of King Crimson), formed in 1970 and in the first half of the decade took the world by storm with some ground breaking and innovative prog rock music that was often as whimsical as it was abrasive, and featured several influences on top of a central classical music theme.

Palmer’s drumming suits the music perfectly, being intricate and powerful in equal measure. Tank and Karn Evil 9 First Impression Pt2 stand out, and there are some less obvious choices too that showcase the music as well. Add on a track by Carl Palmer & Joseph Horovitz and it’s a great start. Even if you’re not an ELP fan, you’ll find something to love here.

Disc 2 kicks off with a 1966 7” A & B side, 2 tracks by The Craig, which I believe was Palmer’s vinyl debut, or close to. Then a Chris Farlowe track and two by Atomic Rooster – this is the kind of rare stuff fans are going to love. Jump forward a few years and there‘s a track by PM (now there’s an album worth checking out) and two by Mike Oldfield.

Post ELP there are several tracks by Asia, of whom Carl was a founder member. A more commercial prog rock/pop outfit, there are some wonderful tracks here. And the disc finishes with two tracks by 3 (Palmer, Emerson, Robert Berry) and one by Carl Palmer & The Buddy Rich Orchestra.

Disc 3 features material by The Carl Palmer Band and Carl Palmer’s ELP Legacy, with various live and more modern takes on ELP and Nice tracks. Again, fantastic. Much here many won’t have heard.

Then Disc 4 is a collection of video material from across the decades on a nicely presented blu ray. So much to digest here, and enjoy too. Lots you won’t have seen, lots of rarities and games. Inciteful.

But best of all, is the packaging. A thick, heavy, pretty hefty box; packaged with the 4 discs is a booklet which is a little thin (no track list for the blu ray disc), but some great info, very informative.

Maybe I’m being picky, but aside from the track details for the video disc, a full Carl Palmer discog would have been nice too. That aside, that would all make a pretty decent box in its own right. But this solid set is doubled in weight with a book, a Carl Palmer autobiography. Not that’s a bonus.

This bonus book will take a lot of extra reading but at first glance, some great info, including the sad state of the inter-band communication (or lack of) after their 2010 High Voltage ELP performance.

Keith and Greg may be gone, and they have both been honoured in some more than decent box sets of late, and this set rounds it all up nicely. It could easily have been double the number of discs, but with what you have here and the book, it’s pretty much as good as it gets. ****1/2

Review by Joe Geesin


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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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)


News: EPICA, KATE BUSH, LOVERBOY (March 2024)

THOSE DAMN CROWS – Islington Assembly Hall, London – 24th February 2023

News - Album News

Jon Anderson’s 1988 album In The City Of Angels’, is to be reissued on May 3 through the Floating World/Voiceprint.

Babylon A.D. release their new studio album ‘Rome Wasn’t Built In A Day’ in May.

Sebastian Bach releases his latest solo album, Child Within The Man’, via Reigning Phoenix Music on May 10.

The Black Sabbath box set (4CD & vinyl) covering the Tony Martin years between 1989 and 1995, will be titled ‘Anno Domini 1989-1995‘ and released on May 31 via BMG.

Bon Jovi release a new song ‘Legendary’ on March 15 ahead of their new studio album, ‘Forever’, which is released on June 7.

Brave Rival release their second album ‘Fight Or Flight’ on August 16.

Breed 77 return with a new single ‘End Of The Line’ on March 7 with UK tour dates in May.

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds release their latest album ‘Wild God’ on August 30.

Darkthrone will release a new album, ‘It Beckons Us All’, on April 26 via Peaceville Records.

Dark Tranquillity will release their thirteenth studio album, ‘Endtime Signals’, on August 16 via Century Media Records

Dead Daisies are recording their new album with producer Marti Frederiksen. Drummer Tommy Clufetos also returns to band.

Demon release their new album ‘Invincible’ on May 17 via Frontiers.

The Doobie Brothers are in the final stages of recording a new album with Michael McDonald, their first original studio album together since 1980’s One Step Closer’.

Eels release their fifteenth album ‘Eels Time!’ on June 7.

Epica plan to release their next studio album in 2025.

FM release their latest album ‘Old Habits Die Hard’ on May 3 through Frontiers.

Marty Friedman releases his new album ‘Drama’ on May 17.

Grand Slam release their new album ‘Wheel of Fortune’ on June 7. Original guitarist Laurence Archer is joined by vocalist Mike Dyer, bassist Rocky Newton (MSG) and drummer Benjy Reid.

Glenn Hughes plans to start recording his next solo album in June for a planned 2025 release.

Stereophonics’ Kelly Jones has announced a new solo album, ‘Inevitable Incredible’, which will be released on May 3.

Kissin’ Dynamite return with their latest album ‘Back With A Bang’ released on July 5 on Napalm Records.

Linkin Park release ’Papercuts (Singles Collection 2000–2023)’ on April 12.

Little Feat have announced their new album ‘Sam’s Place’, their first studio album in 12 years, will be released on May 17.

Loverboy will release ‘Live in ‘82′, on June 7 on earMusic.

earMUSIC release Marillion’s ‘An Hour Before It’s Dark: Live in Port Zélande 2023′ on June 17.

The Mavericks return with a new album, ‘Moon & Stars’, on May 17.

The Milk Men release their fifth studio album ‘Holy Cow!’ on May 3.

Phil Mogg will release his solo album ‘Mogg’s Hotel’ on September 4.

Willie Nelson will release his 75th solo studio album, ‘The Border’, on May 31.

Nightwish have mixed and mastered their tenth studio album which is now likely to be released in late 2024. They have also recently renewed their record deal with Nuclear Blast, who they have been with for twenty years.

Axel Rudi Pell releases his new album ‘Risen Symbol’ on June 14 via Steamhammer/SPV.

Escape Music release the new Perseus album ‘Into the Silence’ on April 19.

Pink Floyd’s 1977 album ‘Animals’ is getting a Dolby Atmos release with newly updated artwork arriving on May 17.

Queen re-issue ‘Rock In Montreal’ on double Blu-Ray, double 4K Ultra High Definition packages, 2CD and triple vinyl packages on May 10.

RPWL release ‘True Live Crime’ on April 12.

Six Feet Under will release their new album, ‘Killing For Revenge’, on May 10 via Metal Blade.

Slash has announced details of his blues solo album. Titled ‘Orgy Of The Damned’, it will be released through Gibson Records on May 17 and features 12 revitalized blues classics. Guest vocalists include Gary Clark Jr, Billy F. Gibbons, Chris Stapleton, Dorothy, Iggy Pop, Paul Rodgers, Brian Johnson, Chris Robinson and Beth Hart.

Sony Music release ‘Best of Bruce Springsteen’ on April 19 on double LP and CD, with a 31 track digital version.

Tesla plan to release their new single ‘All About Love’ in the summer.

The Tangent release their new album To Follow Polaris’ through InsideOut Music on May 10. It will only feature Andy Tillison, however, the band are still together and plan to record the next album as a full band.

Those Damn Crows (pictured) will released an expanded edition of their ‘Inhale/Exhale’ (with seven bonus songs) album on 5 April via Earache Records.

Joe Lynn Turner plans to release his next album in 2025.

Visions of Atlantis release their new albumPirates II – Armada’ on July 5 via Napalm Records.

Oliver Wakeman releases his first album in twenty years, ‘Anam Cara’, through Spirit Of Unicorn Music on May 17.

Cherry Red Records will be releasing a 4CD box set from Waysted called ‘Won’t Get Out Alive: Wasted Volume One 1983-1986′ and it is due on April 26.c

Yes release a 30th anniversary edition of their 1994 album ‘Talk’ on May 24. It will be available as a single-disc, 4CD and limited-edition white vinyl.

Neil Young is making his music catalogue available on Spotify again after boycotting the streaming service for two years.

News - Tours and Gigs

Newly announced UK tours (2024 unless stated):

Albert Bouchard (Oct), Biffy Clyro (Oct), Breed 77 (May), Bullet For My Valentine + Trivium (Jan, Feb 2025), Bywater Call (Oct), Cannibal Corpse (Sep), Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds (Nov), Deep Purple + Reef (Nov), the Enid (Oct), Fish (Feb, Mar 2025), Samantha Fish (Oct), Simon Godfrey (Sep), Journey + Cheap Trick (Oct, Nov), King King (Oct), Mudhoney (Sep, Oct), Stevie Nicks (Jul), NOFX (Jun 11/12 Brixton Academy – farewell shows), Suzi Quatro (Nov), Rival Sons (Jun), Shed Seven + the Sherlocks (Nov, Dec), Soil (Nov), Rick Wakeman (Nov, Dec), Paul Weller (Oct, Nov), Winger (Jun 7, London UK farewell show), the Wolf Tones (Jul 5, Finsbury Park farewell show),

Upcoming (Gigs – UK)

Newly announced US & European tours (2024 unless stated):

A Day To Remember (US), Jon Anderson and the Band of Geeks (US), Sebastian Bach (US), Cannibal Corpse (EU), Elvis Costello + Darryl Hall (US), Roger Daltrey (US), Dark Tranquillity + Moonspell (EU), the Dead Daisies (US), Drive-By Truckers (US), Jeff Lynne’s ELO (US farewell tour), John Fogerty + George Thorogood (US), Girlschool + Lillian Axe + Alcatrazz (US), Halestorm + I Prevail (US), PJ Harvey (US), Hatebreed (US), Kansas (US), The National + The War On Drugs (US), New Found Glory (US), Stevie Nicks (EU), Parkway Drive (AU), Pulp (US), Royal Republic (EU), Slash (US), Smokie (AU), Soil (EU), Sting (US), Stone Temple Pilots + Live (US), Sum 41 (CA), 10CC (US), Teduschi Trucks Band (US), the Used (US), Vicious Rumors + Raven (US), Weezer + Flaming Lips + Dinosaur Jr (US), Kim Wilde (AU), You, Me At Six (EU),

Upcoming (USA/ROW)

Rick and Oliver Wakeman are appearing along with Gordon Giltrap and Carrie Martin for the Mile Of Roses charity concert in June to raise money for a Tewkesbury special school and theatre. It will take place at the Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury on June 22.

Brixton Academy re-opens next month having been closed following a tragic incident in December 2022.

The Hu will support Iron Maiden on their US tour.

The Pretty Reckless will support AC/DC on their world tour.

Foo Fighters drummer Josh Freese will return to the drum stool after thirteen years away, for A Perfect Circle’s upcoming US tour.

Lou Gramm has announced this year will be his final year of touring. He is also planning to release a new album later in the year.

Robert Fripp has given his blessing to Adrian Belew’s new outfit Beat, which sees the former King Crimson vocalist and guitarist team up with King Crimson and Peter Gabriel bassist Tony Levin, Tool drummer Danny Carey and Steve Vai to perform music from the three 1980s King Crimson albums ‘Discipline,’ ‘Beat’ and ‘Three Of A Perfect Pair’.

Postponed/cancelled gigs & tours

George Benson’s summer UK dates have been cancelled due to Benson’s health and medical advice not to travel & tour internationally.

The Residents UK & European tour due in April has been cancelled.

Voyager have announced the cancellation of all their 2024 live shows as singer Danny Estrin continues to undergo treatment for cancer.

Other Stuff

Kate Bush has been announced as an ambassador for this year’s Record Store Day on April 20.

The sequel to ‘This Is Spinal Tap’ has started filming with cameos from Paul McCartney, Elton John, Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood all expected to feature in the film.

Alessandro Del Vecchio has announced he will no longer be working with the Frontiers record label.

Bob Catley released a statement via Magnum’s official Facebook page stating that the band was over. Bob said “I really can’t carry on with Tony not here anymore.”

Mercury Songs Limited, which owns Freddie Mercury’s solo works, has filed to trademark his moniker for 3D and virtual reality.

Judas Priest’s latest album ‘Invincible Shield’ is their highest chart entry in the UK album charts at number two.

Elton John and Bernie Taupin are set to receive the US Library Of Congress Gershwin Prize next month.

Slim pickings for rock & metal acts at this year’s BRITS with Bring Me The Horizon picking up the Alternative/Rock Act award.

Another rock song passes one billion streams on Spotify. This time it is Black Sabbath’s ‘Paranoid’.

Universal Music Publishing has signed Yusuf/Cat Stevens to a global publishing administration deal. “This is the first time the publishing catalogue has been united under one roof with the master catalogue since Chris Blackwell’s Island Records years”, said his manager and son Yoriyos Adamos.

Bruce Dickinson’s latest album ‘The Mandrake Project’ debuted at number three on the UK album charts.

Sepultura drummer Eloy Casagrande has left the band. He has been with them since 2011.

Pixies have parted ways with bassist Paz Lenchantin after 10 years and she is replaced by Band of Skulls’ Emma Richardson.

Former Slipknot drummer Jay Weinberg has joined Suicidal Tendencies.

Bassist Ricky Phillips has announced he is leaving Styx after over twenty years with the band.

News - RIP

Blackberry Smoke’s founding drummer Brit Turner

Jim Beard, Steely Dan’s keyboards player

Bass player T.M. Stevens

Live music promoter Vince Power

Mammoth guitarist ‘Big’ Mac Baker

World Party’s Karl Wallinger, who was also a member of the Waterboys between 1983-85

Eric Carmen, lead singer and songwriter with 70′s pop rockers the Raspberries and his own successful solo career, which included ‘All By Myself’ and ‘Hungry Eyes’

Cockney Rebel frontman Steve Harley


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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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 : TURBULENCE – Binary Dream

Frontiers [Release date: 08.03.24]

Third album from cutting edge Lebanese Progressive Metal band, Turbulence.

Turbulence by name… this truly is a Prog Metal album for genre afficionados. We said that the band’s 2023 Frontiers debut, Frontal was “a defiantly bold attempt to incorporate the music of the wider world into their canon”. That aim continues with Binary Dream.

And it would be easy to use introduce Dream Theater at this point…so we will.

Right from the first note on the album’s opening track, ‘Static Mind’, concentrated listens reveal that the intricacies of the song structures and the musicianship, at first hard to pin down, are presented in much the same way as do the genre’s universal benchmark, Dream Theater.

That comparison doesn’t always stack up, but we can also hear echoes in tracks like ‘Ternary’ and ‘Hybrid’, which have darker sounds and even more complex song structures than the norm.

Doesn’t make them bad people of course. On the contrary, as unabashed high concept (robot wakes up to a “I think therefore I am” moment) albums go, this one continues to demand our full on attention.

The two instrumental tracks, ‘Time Bridge’ and ‘Manifestations’ stand out.

These are for those fans unafraid to wade into densely packed arrangements, where all instruments mesh in an impenetrable maze of Progmetal complexity. There are good tunes there too. Buried deep perhaps, degrees of inner turbulence you might say, but as the tracks proceed, they emerge triumphant.

‘Theta’ is light on its feet,’Corrosion’ too, even thought it’s more of a ballad, each stepping from one heavyweight moment to the next, totally in sync with the band’s musicianship, polishing it up to a gleaming technical shine.

‘Hybrid’, the first trailer track, is perhaps the album’s most accessible piece of music. There’s a visceral power and an intensity to it, but it’s got a strong melodic core that keeps it bolted to terra firma.

Strong album, and you can’t help thinking there’s more to come. ***1/2

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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: SAMI YAFFA – Satan’s Helpers War Lazer Eyes And The Money Pig Circus

SAMI YAFFA - Satan’s Helpers War Lazer Eyes & The Money Pig Circus

Livewire/Cargo [Release date 08.03.24]

Friends will tell you that I am a huge fan of the Stones, Guns N’ Roses, Motley Crue or Def Leppard, and they are right, but for me there is one band that will always remain my favourite and that band is Hanoi Rocks.

Releasing a handful of albums before their triumphant rise was tragically cut short, the Finnish band influenced more bands then you could ever give them credit for and each surviving band member went on to make some great albums following the band’s break up in 1985, and continuing on that path bassist Sami Yaffa will shortly release new album “Satan’s Helpers War Lazer Eyes & The Money Pig Circus”.

The album may have one of the most unusual titles we have seen recently but follows on nicely from 2021’s “The Innermost Journey To Your Outermost Mind”. The album was produced by Yaffa himself and alongside his solo band members the likes of Hanoi Rocks bandmates Michael Monroe and Nasty Suicide, Backyard Babies’ Dregen and Monroe bandmates Steve Conte and Rich Jones all make an appearance.

There is a blend of musical styles on the album, something that Yaffa is a master at creating.  Album opener, and title track, “Satan’s Helpers War Lazer Eyes & The Money Pig Circus” is a sparse bluesy affair, “Silver Or Lead” is a more frantic slice of punk n roll whilst “Down Home” is a slower number that is a great example of what a superb songwriter Sami Yaffa is. Other highlights include the album’s lead single “Crashing Down”, “Hurricane Hank”, “Death Squad”, “Chemical Life” and “Far Star”.

“Satan’s Helpers War Lazer Eyes & The Money Pig Circus” is a great record and will greatly please Yaffa fans, only time will tell if we get to hear these songs live, I really hope we do.  *****

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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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 : HEKZ – Terra Nova

Hekz - Terra Nova

BMH Audio [Release date: 03.11.23]

‘Terra Nova’ is a British prog rock band Hekz’s first release for 5 years and is a concept album that deals with overcoming different elements of the psyche to realize our potential and become who we are meant to be.

To that end they have cut a subjective, complex and musically restless album kept on track by an evolving story.

They lay out a mission statement in the opening title track: “Do you feel so out of place, On a path you cannot trace, Like a person who fell out of time?

Out of step and out of sync, What you see and how you think, Are you living on a fragile line?”

They further expand on this with: “Gotta find where you belong, Fly your flag and sing your song, It’s a journey and the map is in your hands.”

And they finally restate the core idea in the closing coda of ‘Terra Nova 11’: “They say that life is not a destination, It’s the steps you take, The road you choose and how you make your way.”

Terra Nova’ is based on an evolving concept that gives bass playing vocalist, songwriter and keyboardist Matt Young all the ammunition he needs for an adventurous album.

The prog metal band gathers its inspiration from the seemingly contrary impulses of musical spontaneity and remote recording, while the album fleshes out its conceptual nature with a structural narrative brought to life by power chords, feverish rhythms, undulating melodies, fiery solos and resolving hooks.

The thunderous opening title track acts as a musical calling card, with harmony guitars, ebullient percussive phrasing, Rush style propulsive bass lines and enough room for Irina Markevich’s extra layer of violin.

But it’s Matt Young’s songwriting that is the bedrock of the project. His noir filled lyrics fit complex musical changes and breathless arrangements which never linger too long, but always deliver enough to keep the listener interested.

He’s big on dynamics, as on the lumbering ‘Sabotage’, full of vocal and musical ‘call and response’ moments, and 70’s Tull style Staccato stops and starts.

And aside from a few overblown moments, particularly on the 25 minute suite ‘The Silent Man’, the reason the project works so well is his attention to detail.

For example, on the heavier ‘Sabotage’, he evokes a lyrical sense of doubt through his use of prosody:   “There’s something in me and it won’t come out, I’m full of fear and I’m full of doubt, Every time I try to push it down, It’s like a flood and I’m gonna drown.”

On the other hand, there are moments when the near 90 minutes of music cries out for more than few drops-downs and dynamic subtleties.

And yet on balance, the organic nature of the album wins out.

‘Horizons’ for example, is a frenetic track which never stays in a groove for more than a few seconds before new sonic elements rise and fade to perfectly fit lyrical meaning, especially won the line: “Don’t stop me now, I’m running free, You can’t hold me back today. Hands at the helm, I’m on the tide, Horizon’s calling me away, Time on my side, World at my feet, I’ve got my life in my hands.”

On the outstanding “Mayday” he sings; “You hit me like a cannonball, No warning, I could lose it all, I didn’t feel the changing wind. Complacency. A careless sin.”

Happily, there’s no complacency here, as the band fulfils its potential on a breathtaking track full of intense band interplay held together by the expansive phrasing of drummer Moyano El Buffalo.

‘Terra Nova’ is an album with so much going on that each track rewards the listerner with different options, even when you step outside the chronological musical journey.

And if ‘The Tower’ is a dirgy piece, it does its job in evoking the feeling of being trapped, before a revelatory hard rocking moment when Young sings over some choral bv’s

The following ‘Lifeline’ acts as a counterweight, with a musically rewarding hook ushered in by a big hair metal style woosh.  Such is the feeling of a cathartic release that that the combination of falsetto vocal, keys and Mark Bogert’s  double line guitar shred – he is a big presence on the album – sounds as if they are trying to over egg the cake.

You could argue that is also the case on the heavier ‘I Am The Thrall’, as the rampant need for musical expression seems to hamper the track’s coherence. The moog solo and thunderous drums also asks much of Young’s vocals.

Then again, a rich cake deserves the best ingredients, and this is a band bursting with proggy vitality.

Everything builds neatly into the pivotal 25 minute suite of ‘The Silent Man’, which though musically exciting, provides the moment when an outside producer could have applied a judicious snip.

The mesh of synths, spiralling guitars, percussion, big chords, flinty dynamics and even a delightfully playful trumpet solo seem to emphasize a “kitchen, sink and all” approach.

The band doesn’t so much resolve the extended piece, as bash it out with a cod-operatic finish to shine a light on a more optimistic narrative: “But if you believe you can be broken, Believe you can be fixed.”

The lyrical coda of ‘Terra Nova11′ gives the band the opportunity stretch out on a dreamy contemplative section which vocally evokes early Yes, complete with an acapella outro.

With 11 songs, 89 minute of music and five years in the making, ‘Terra Nova’ proudly stands outside of the world of digital download immediacy and takes you on a journey that demands the kind of focus and patience that will surely lead to many repeat plays. ****

Review by 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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR- Indigo2, London, 22 February 2024

JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR- Indigo2, London, 22 February 2024

2024 is a big year for Joanne Shaw Taylor with a new album ‘Heavy Soul’ on the way, and already a single release, and a UK tour including this, her biggest London headline show to date, albeit in the Indigo’s rather sterile confines.

There was also the bonus of a support from Essex-based Connor Selby, who is making the same career progression of promising blues singer and guitarist that Joanne did a decade ago and has been attracting some high profile interest. Unfortunately I missed the first couple of songs owing to train cancellations and a long queue to get into the venue.

JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR- Indigo2, London, 22 February 2024

Photo: Andy Nathan

The curtain- haired youngster is not a natural extrovert but seems to grow in confidence every time I see him. Songs like ‘The Truth Comes Out Eventually’ and ‘That’s All Right’ had a relaxed groove to them and owed more to greats from earlier generations like Ray Charles. ‘Emily’ was the one song that veered closer to blues rock with excellent band playing, notably from keyboard player Steve Watts in his ‘Peaky Blinders’ cap. However after less than half an hour that was it, disappointing as I thought that with his full band in tow for the only time on the tour, he might have been offered longer given that the whole show was over shortly after 10 pm.

JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR- Indigo2, London, 22 February 2024

Wearing a pink jacket and leading a five piece band of American musicians, Joanne Shaw Taylor opened in up-tempo fashion with ‘In the Mood’- the keys of Phil Whitfield were well to the fore but it also featured the first of her fluent, lyrical yet concise guitar solos. On ‘Keep On Lovin’ Me’ she sounded soulful, especially when delivering the first part of the song with no guitar initially, while ‘All My Love’ had crossover potential.

JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR- Indigo2, London, 22 February 2024

After a couple of more traditional blues from the ‘Blues Album’ in If You Gotta Make a Fool Out Of Somebody (with 2nd guitarist Shane Sanders taking one of the solos) and ‘Can’t You See What You’re Doing to Me’, ‘Dyin to Know’ was a little rockier with a boogie-ish rhythm. However brand new single ‘Wild Love’ was a mainstream effort not bluesy in the slightest, and ‘Won’t Be Fooled Again’, which Joanne said was deliberately written to convey an eighties vibe, in a similar vein.

Donning a Les Paul for a dirtier, rockier sound ‘Watch ‘Em Burn’ from her debut ‘White Sugar’ album was the one occasion when she and the band jammed out significantly on an 11 minute version, while on ‘Diamonds in the Dirt’ her sensual vocals even had something of the late great Tina Turner, though she still reeled off a fine solo later in the song.

JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR- Indigo2, London, 22 February 2024

Not having seen JST live since before COVID (Stone Free in 2018, I think), nor a headline show for even longer, two things struck me. One was an increased self assurance in engaging the audience, with direct humour, and taking them into her confidence. This was particularly evident when talking about the loss of her mother to cancer a decade ago, with some very sage reflections on grief, as an explanation of the context of ‘Fade Away’, on which she played acoustic guitar.

The other is that those many years based in the States have broadened her musical palette, as an all round songwriter and singer with a strong streak of southern soul even in her vocals, and far more than just a blues rock guitar hero. Most of the songs also had a very Americanised feel to them: ‘Runaway’ featured some very Allmans sounding guitar from Shane in its first section, and ‘Sweet Lil Lies’ Could have been in Sheryl Crow territory until a closer in ‘Bad Love’ where the band, also featuring bassist Steve Lehane and drummer Eric  Savage, jammed for rather longer with Phil who had played a low-key role up to this point stabbing his organ flamboyantly.

JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR- Indigo2, London, 22 February 2024

There was a solitary encore, going back to the very first album in ‘Going Home’ which seems to be her signature song. The one downer on the evening was that the crowd seemed mysteriously subdued, even though Joanne handled the muted applause with good humour. It was even more puzzling as on musical grounds this was a flawless show.

Review by Andy Nathan

Photos by Marty Moffatt (except where indicated)


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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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 END MACHINE – The Quantum Phase

Frontiers [Release date: 08.03.24]

Third album from George Lynch’s “new” band.

(Interesting to note that Lynch has “retired” the Lynch Mob band name, admitting that the play on his surname was always “problematic,” but is now “inexcusable” because of its racial undertones.)

Jeff Pilson and Steve Brown remain. Vocalist, Robert Mason has gone, replaced by Girish Pradhan, he of Girish and The Chronicles, one of Frontier’s rising stars.

The album title suggests a progression, but it’s not.

They’re cranking the machine way back. The song titles suggest it won’t be winning any Pulitzer Prizes anyway.

Pilson and Brown lay down a densely constructed, bass heavy bedrock, leaving plenty of room for Lynch to carve out thick cut riffs and razor wire solos.

He’s in free flow much of the time, churning out explosive guitar crunch, as the band deliver tough but buoyant melodies, thundering drums, and right on the nail vocals, from the first stuttering chords of the dark and passionate “Black Hole Extinction’ to the high speed hard rock of ‘Into The Blazing Sun’.

Less a protest song, more an indictment. ‘Silent Winter’, a “song about the bleak prospects for humanity if we keep on our current trajectory” is suitably framed by Lynch’s menacing axework, before the track launches into another blast of hard hitting hard rock.

‘Killer Of The Night’ is a peach of a melodic hard rock song, sounding like its been plucked from the best of Lynch’s storied past. It’s a fiery, blazing thing, stomping, riff heavy, with pummelling drums, much wailing from the backing vocals and a towering edifice of a hook.

The fiercely dramatic ‘Burning Man’ and the swaggeringly tough ‘Shattered Heart’ share the same DNA as bands like Tesla and Whitesnake, and indeed, Dokken, turning blues rock into a commercial proposition. There are two great vocal performances here from Pradham. He seems to have quickly outgrown his parent band limitations. We’ll hear more of him no doubt.

Elsewhere, among others, the unimaginatively titled ‘Hell Or High Water’ “borrows” bits from every great hard rock song that made it during the eighties. It’s all good though. It’s a fun ride, gaining an unstoppable momentum as it fuels up on each electrifying chorus.

Lynch’s clanging riffs and piercing guitar soloing are worth the admission price alone.

Three albums later, having apparently abandoned the limiting strictures of post nineties hard rock, this band seem liberated. ****

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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: FRASER ANDERSON/EMILY FRASER – Junction 3, Cambridge, 24 February 2024

Continuing my February foray to Cambridge’s acoustic gig offerings, the intimate club surroundings of Junction 3 – where the popular New Routes event has its home – hosts some of the very best acoustic and electric talent in the folk and Americana scene.

The relaxed atmosphere enhanced with the placing of small tables that add to the air of community, friends old and new able to enjoy each other’s company whilst sipping on their drink of choice and soaking up the music played. It’s a formula that works and one that’s proven very popular, each night selling out as more and more seek its guarantee of something rather wonderful.

Photo: Tony Birch

Headlining, troubadour Fraser Anderson has made his way over from his Bristol home, vocalist Bex Baxter and double bass player John Parker at his side. Armed with his warm voice that breaks into a falsetto at times and dexterous guitar playing, Anderson has an easy charm, his self-effacing attitude and openness creating an instant connection.

Touched with the blues, his laid back and jazzy take on folk is refreshing, the style something unique and intriguing that has hints of the late, great John Martyn at his finest, the interplay between him, Baxter and Parker a delight.

The shimmering waltz of ‘Cold Eyes’ manages to be one-part smoky bar, one-part wide open pastoral beauty, the harmonies and underpinning guitar and bass blending into a perfect whole, capturing the talent at work here. Equally impressive, the fretwork of ‘Waterfall’ dazzles without being overly flash and the broken and longing vibe of ‘Feel’ paints pictures in words and music like the grand masters.

Things loosen up a little with a beautifully arranged take on The Proclaimers ‘500 Miles’ that sees its happy stomp brought to something more stately and sparse, this fresh light through old windows stamped with Anderson’s own identity.

With five albums under his belt, there’s a wealth of material to choose from and ‘One More Day Forever’ from 2023’s ‘All We Are’ shows his growth as a writer, the already storied Anderson reaching ever greater heights.

The choice of Parker’s double bass and Baxter’s vocals are perfect to accompany the arrangements, their individually expressive tones pitched with precision throughout. Encoring with the spoken word ‘With You All’ a ragged and lyrical end to the evening, another layer revealed in heartfelt fashion, Anderson giving his all in a spirit of sharing that struck a chord with all present. An outstanding performer, the world is a better place with Anderson’s music in it.

EMILY FRASER - Junction 3, Cambridge, 24 February 2024Photo: Mark Pickering

Appearing at both my acoustic shows, locally based Emily Fraser is a revelation. Whilst having been on the scene for a while, the studiously low profile she’s kept can’t be hidden for much longer, her talent impossible to miss.

Immediately enchanting, there’s something magnetic about her quiet charisma that stops you in your tracks and the songs she writes have an air of intimacy and openness that touches the soul. To be this vulnerable is strikingly brave, the emotions real and probing as they are stripped bare, but it’s all wrapped in such achingly beautiful music that any pain is salved by a patina of joy. With her expressive voice soaked with a seductive smokiness, the songs work their way under your skin as they pull you further into her world.

EMILY FRASER - Junction 3, Cambridge, 24 February 2024
Photo: Tony Birch

As with Thursday night’s show, Fraser is joined once more by keys player Sean O’Hanrahan and Ben Smith on pedal steel, the two musicians adding their own individual magic to the sound that builds subtle layers of atmosphere.

Delicately plucking her guitar and lost in the lyrics, Fraser is focused in the moment, the gentle strains of first number ‘Open Your Eyes’ drifting out like a siren call, wistful and incandescent. There’s silence in the audience, any conversations having stopped so not to break the spell and so it continued whilst the trio are playing, the floating but more upbeat rhythms of ‘Peace of Mind’ getting heads nodding and toes tapping.

Whilst tuning issues with her various guitars provide little breaks that threaten the flow, when a song as arresting as ‘My Girl’ comes along it’s impossible not to be transfixed, the fragility of its form a thin veneer that covers a pushed down pain.

At times there seems to be an old, world-weary soul in the body of this young woman standing on stage but there is a sparkle there that peeks through any perceived cracks, a hope and strength that breathes life into new song ‘See It All’ and the reflective ‘Old Memories’.

The outfit continued to work wonders together, the arrangements in ‘Looking Up’ letting each member of the trio shine as they complimented but never overpowered either each other or the music itself, the song always the central focus. ‘Talk to Me’ and ‘Out of Sync’ close the set, both walking a fine line between love and obsession, darkness and light as an almost reverential hush continues over those gathered.

As the last note is played, Fraser breaks into a smile that lights up her face, the catharsis of singing these songs and touching such emotions released into the ether once more. Held breaths are let out and the applause starts again, the appreciation coming in heavy waves. It’s nothing less than they deserve.

Two extraordinary nights of songs performed by some outstanding artists, a salve to the soul and full of genuine beauty. This truly is the power of music to move and affect lives so profoundly as to transport the listener to a world both familiar yet wonderfully different, the shared experience priceless beyond words.

Review by Paul Monkhouse

More to explore: Constant Follower (Cambridge, 22 February 2024)


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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: CONSTANT FOLLOWER – Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, 22 February 2024

CONSTANT FOLLOWER - Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, 22 February 2024

For those seeking refuge from a harsh world outside, there was no better place than Cambridge, its gleaming spires, ancient waterway, historic places of learning and the constant ring of bicycle bells in the town centre suddenly the epicentre of all that’s beautiful in the Universe.

I attended two gigs in the same week which proved there is a desire for something natural, the artists featured were as far from a big, soulless stadium show by the latest star or starlet as could be imagined.

Bereft of dazzling choreography by a cast of dancers, retina scorching lightshows, elaborate staging, or mortgage level ticket prices, this was art at its most raw and human, filled with performances that will long echo in memories.

All the way down from his base in Scotland, Stephen McAll, A.K.A. Constant Follower, has quickly gained the reputation as one of most unique and authentic voices on the modern folk scene. In a rare solo outing from the rest of the band and armed only with an acoustic guitar and effects pedals, McAll showed exactly why he’s so feted by all who’ve heard or seen the band.

An overnight success story that took twenty years, the singer, songwriter and guitarist brought a fragile, yet defiant spirit born of two decades of struggle, miraculously surviving a terrifyingly vicious gang beating whilst a teenager in Glasgow. It’s no stretch to say that music saved his life and his ability to turn that experience and the long road to recovery into something so unutterably gorgeous as their music borders on the alchemic.

Stood there in the modern auditorium of Anglia Ruskin University’s Recital Hall, McAll exudes the persona of a friend you’ve known all your life, a big bear of a man with a gentle soul as he clutches his guitar.

CONSTANT FOLLOWER - Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, 22 February 2024

Opening number ‘Happy Birthdays’ unfurls gently as subtle effects add layers and atmosphere, the voice something so full of character and nuance that it wraps you the audience in a warm blanket.

The effect is soothing but never soporific, the lyrics engaging and seeking as the storyteller peels back layers that speak of a life lived and yet to be explored, numbers like ‘Weave Of The World’ dance like candle lights on a Winter night as the delicately plucked strings ring with a bright adoration.

With a second album recorded but yet to be released, the bulk of the material came from the critically acclaimed ‘Neither Is, Nor Ever Was’ debut and collaboration project ‘Even Days Dissolve’, so favourites like ‘I Can’t Wake You’ and ‘Watching The Black River Run’ were presented in their naked form, gloriously alluring.

Big enough to fill a cathedral with sound yet as quiet as a whisper, ‘One Word Away’ beguiles, its irresistible tendrils reaching out to touch all there and closer ‘The Merry Dancers On TV’ is a vision in gossamer, its grace enough to make angels cry.

Timeless and transfixing, there wasn’t a person leaving the auditorium who went off into the night without feeling a little taller and warmer.  Positively sublime.

Review by Paul Monkhouse

More to Explore: Fraser Anderson/Emily Fraser (Cambridge, 22 February 2024)


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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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 : HOLLY LERSKI – Sweet Decline

Pete Feenstra chatted to Holly Lerski for Get Ready to ROCK! Radio playing tracks from the new album.  First broadcast 3 March 2024.

Holly Lerski - Sweet Decline

Laundry [Release date: 26.04.24]

Holly Lerski’s ‘Sweet Decline’ works hard to capture lingering moments of inspiration as part of a post-relationship healing process.

It’s an observational album built round an American road trip that starts in Chicago and finds an emotional equilibrium on the West Coast in general and Big Sur in particular.

And as she immerses herself in startling scenery, literary history and people, her songwriting process gathers momentum in a confessional and story telling style, subtly framed by multi-instrumentalist Matthew Roley’s intuitive production.

The duo build a lattice of drifting tonal colours, nuanced strings, rhythmical variety and enough cool textures to tap into the feeling of wide open spaces.

The frequent combination of an acoustic wash, significant percussion and SistaStrings  arrangements give the music the ability to carry an emotional moment.

The opening waltz-time ‘Chicago’ is a surprisingly early uplifting string-led melodic song, with strong acoustic rhythms and exaggerated phrasing, a style that shapes much of the 11 song set.

‘Home Is Your Shoulder’ is a curious mix of lyrical introspection and jingle-jangle pop which delivers an uplifting musical bridge with an open-ended message: “Any time you want me,  you just reach up and call me.”

It’s almost as if she can’t wait for the healing process to begin by engaging with the wider world.

She sets herself the hard task of penning something original in a confessional style, although she does stop short of directly addressing the listener and settles on stories instead.

And while she’s following a well trodden path – both geographically (the West Coast), and spiritually (post-break up songs), she successfully crafts an album with an emotional reach beyond the Nashville friendly staples of overused pedal steel and significant hooks.

Her pit stops on the West Coast include places like the ‘Nepenthe’s’ restaurant, which inspires the gently strummed ‘Nepenthe’, with aching strings and a neat reference to the Beats:  “I heard Henry Miller came here, I wanted to spend my last days there, Gods of Olympus, Kerouac, Ginsberg and me.”

On ‘Down At Deetjen’s’ she’s transported back to her previous relationship, with a cool jazzy feel, sonorous strings, choral bv’s and a hopeful narrative in a Joni Mitchell diary style reflection.

She has the ability to evoke a particular time and place with a pleasant vocal range and armed with the substance of emotive phrasing.

The real achievement here is the way her songs explore rich sonic detail, cool dynamics and meaningful lyrics as part of an enveloping musical journey.

This is even the case on the even on the stripped down ukulele-led ‘Carmel’.

The latter has a jaunty, exhilaratory feel which underpins her lyrical spontaneity:

“Next day I drove down to Carmel and sat on the beach, ate a cake and drank coffee, far from home, alone but I’m not alone.”

The accompanying encouraging backing vocal hollers also lead to an humorous film reference; “I just need Clint to make my day.”

The whispered phrasing and gentle percussion of ‘Tall Trees” places the emphasis on a warm sound, while her emotive vocal amplifies the originality of her enquiring lyrics such as: “ Tall trees stand for centuries, so will my love come back to me?”

Then there’s the sudden percussive snap and short, sharp hook of ‘Oh Cassy Run’ which lifts the album at the midpoint.

The title track features a warm sounding close-to-the-mic vocal, which is arguably her best on the album. It gives substance to her rhymes and a catchy hook, neatly flanked by aching pedal steel chimes, piano and organ.

It builds impressively to lever us into  a delicious opening verse and the song title:  “There’s  a mountain range, I passed today, reminds me a little,  of the curvy lines of your stickleback spine, run my finger down the middle, of that sweet decline.”

The song subtly builds to the point where it provides a cathartic release to all that’s gone before it, making the closing acoustic/ orchestral finish of ‘Girl In a High Castle’ – a meditation on loneliness – seem like distant echo of a past that she’s overcome.

‘Sweet Decline’ is something of a guilty pleasure on a cold winter’s night. Just like a good book, it demands you immerse yourself in it, and come out the other end embracing life with a smile. ****

Review by 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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: STEVE HACKETT – The Circus And The Nightwhale

STEVE HACKETT - The Circus And The Nightwhale

Inside Out [Release date: 16.02.24]

As a recognition of 50 (ish) years in ‘the biz’, Steve Hackett, erstwhile guitarist of Genesis, has released not only a landmark 30th solo album, but also bookended his solo career by releasing a concept album – his only one since his first solo effort ‘Voyage Of The Acolyte’ way back in 1975.

The concept here is loosely based on a character called ‘Travla’ and his journey through life – but it is actually a musical biography based on Hackett’s own life experiences, from his early life in post-war London, through loves and experiences to the present day.

Genesis fans might jump to the conclusion that ‘The Circus And The Nightwhale’ has been lifted from the character of ‘Rael’ on Genesis’ ‘The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway’ album, but not so – whereas Rael was fictional and the album followed his story to a conclusion – TCATN is a series of events in the life of a real person and not necessarily in chronological order.

Right, that’s cleared that one up – André Preview anyone?

I read a few early reviews on this album, some good, some not so good, but the “not so good” critiques tended to follow the theme of “there’s too much guitar”. What the hell did they expect? It’s a solo album by the pre-eminent progressive rock guitarist of his generation – it’s bound to have a bit of guitar on it.

More to the point, where does it stand in Hackett’s body of work?

Well, there is no doubt it’s a Hackett album – other-worldly musicianship, check, a top band, check, superb songwriting, check, – but where it falters is the occasional triteness of the libretto.

Things get underway with ‘People Of The Smoke’ being introduced by a series of sounds that will be very familiar (to old farts like me anyway) – steam trains, posh voices on the radio, “Are you sitting comfortably” from “Listen With Mother” which lead into some searing guitar and lyrics such as “dirty look, do as you’re told, bow to your betters, Empire of old” – ah, the memories…

There’s some great stuff on here as we are given sneaky peeks into Hackett’s life – the four instrumentals represent the diversity of his guitar playing – from the anthemic ‘These Passing Clouds’, the scintillating guitar of ‘Breakout’, the emptiness of ‘All At Sea’ and the acoustic dexterity of closer ‘White Dove’.

There’s the menacing – ‘Taking You Down’ (with its Zappaesque ‘Willie The Pimp’ riff), ‘Circo Inferno’ (with it’s heavy middle-Eastern vibe) and the title track whose crescendos hark back to 1975’s ‘A Tower Struck Down’.

There’s (perhaps) the Genesis years – the ‘Entangled’-like ‘Enter The Ring’ (complete with Tull-like flute solo from brother John) and the self-explanatory ‘Get Me Out’ with its almost screaming-out-loud shredding.

And then there’s the love songs – ‘Found And Lost’ which is pleasant enough, but ‘Ghost Moon And Living Love’ and ‘Wherever You Are’ although classic Hackett, are let down with sanctimonious and trite lyrics – “Where the moon and stars shine in your eyes will our hearts still beat beyond the edge of time”. Pass me the bucket…

However, aside from these small ‘bum in the custard’ moments ‘The Circus And The Nightwhale is an absolute triumph – the band (as usual) are in top form and some of Hackett’s fretwork is simply sublime.

Ignore the naysayers – this is top notch music from a national treasure.

And you can’t have too much guitar – not when it’s played like this.    *****

Review by Alan Jones

Get Ready to ROCK! - The Best of 2024

Feature (The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness, September 2023)


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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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 : ALBERT HAMMOND – Body Of Work

earMusic [Release Date : 01.03.24]

There just can’t be any Classic Rock artist who can outdo prolific hit writer, Albert Hammond’s “been there, done that, got the Oscar/Grammy/Platinum Disc…” track record.

And when you include the fact he wrote the Pipkins’ ‘Gimme Dat Ding’, then you just have to accept that he truly is an untouchable talent.

In his eightieth year now, he’s clearly not slowing down and if he is, well, you could have fooled me.

Body Of Work is Hammond’s 20th studio album and his first recording of original material since 2005. Since then he’s been getting his second wind, re-recording and touring his “greatest hits”, often with celebrity guest artists in tow. Maybe he defines that as slowing down.

What impresses you most with Body Of Work is the sheer variety of songs and sounds and styles, and yet, very clearly, it’s all Albert Hammond. He never really had an instantly recognisable sound, or even a particularly distinctive voice. What he had were distinctive songs. ‘It Never Rains In Southern California’, ‘One Moment In Time’, ‘Free Electric Band’ and ‘The Air That I Breathe’, among many, are evidence enough.

This new batch of material just pulsates with psychic energy and sharp social commentary.
Like most human beings, Hammond has experienced break ups and shake ups. And like others, it’s helped him forge his philosophy of life, as he’s soaked up experiences and the influences around him.

It’s pretty much a Guilty Verdict as he casts his eye across apathy in the face of climate change (Don’t Bother Me Babe), corporate greed (American Flag) and the weightier issues of international conflict (Somebody’s Child).

You’ve got to write something truly affecting nowadays for your protest to be heard. It’s doubtful if any words could approximate the carnage being witnessed in the Middle East today. But Hammond wraps some pretty pithy comments around it.

And then… the alt country, confessional love song, ‘Knocking On Your Door’ (with actual knocks); the Marley-ish ‘Shake A Bone’ (“I’m Chasing Freedom, you want to come along?”) and the upwardly mobile ‘Living In The Universe’ transport us into, well… that place that great songwriters transport us to.

Lots of issues covered perhaps, but in the end, a laconic voice, a sincere songwriting style and a working class worldview are perhaps all you need. ****1/2

Review by Brian McGowan

Get Ready to ROCK! - The Best of 2024


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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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 : AMIGO THE DEVIL – Yours Until The War Is Over

Liars Club/Regime Music [Release date : 23.02.24]

Interviewed by Rolling Stone magazine just prior to the release of his 2021 album, Born Against (a relevant and revealing play on words), Danny Kiranos explained his love of the music of Leonard Cohen and Tom Waits: “It really is only three instruments, two instruments sometimes, and it’s this incredible playing with space and silence and the lack of noise that makes it sounds so full.”

He could have used those words to describe Yours Until The War Is Over. But beware, the space occupied by this new album is a dark, brooding, dangerous place. It’s not for the faint hearted.

His fierce demeanour reflects his European heritage, and like all great songwriters, he tells a self contained story with every track.

Standout track ‘Hanging By The Roots’ is the poster boy for Kiranos’s minimalist instrumental approach. Even basic ballast has been thrown overboard, leaving us simply with two guitars, one acoustic, one electric.
His intimate vocal style – like he’s telling us dark secrets – sets the scene here, “are you bound to find hope, or are you just a victim of the rope?”.

‘It’s All Gone’s wind up acoustic guitars and music hall percussion sit in unadorned tribute to Kiranos’s censure of a life unlived: “The only life that’s ever really worthless is a life without a story to tell”. Try telling them that when you reach the Pearly Gates.

His narratively and thematically rich songs peak with ‘I’m Going To Heaven’, buoyed by Morricone choirs and shouty vocals, his claim that ‘I’m Going To Heaven, and I’m Not Coming Back’ is a lyric to remember.

There’s a strong sense of melancholy threading its way through many of the songs. Scenes and characters float through vividly drawn settings, making songs like the lyrically deft love story, ‘The Mechanic’ come to life like a movie that’s over in 4 minutes.

The most affecting songs came a little later in the running order. The warped Americana of ‘Once Upon A Time In Texaco’, the tale of a drunken gas station robbery gone wrong (Nicely humorous Leone reference in the title), and the intensely moving ‘The Garden Of Leaving‘ both synthesize rural musical traditions with unsentimental (and all the more moving) story telling.

More evidence of an artist at the top of his game. ****

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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: RAFAEL RIQUENI – Versatae

RAFAEL RIQUENI - Versatae

Cleopatra Records [Release date 16.02.24]

‘Versatae’ marks something of a departure for the master flamenco guitar player who is held in the same esteem as players like Paco Pena and Paco de Lucia.

Rafael Riqueni has lent his skills to interpretations of rock classics and a handful of “standards”. The choice of repertoire may seem predictable, crowned by his take on ‘Stairway To Heaven’. But do we need any more acoustic covers of this song, especially after Rodrigo y Gabriela’s frenetic version?

However, he does tackle the perhaps less obvious. I wondered if the track ‘Europa’ would be the classic instrumental performed by Santana, and sure enough it is almost unrecognisable for its acoustic treatment.

But, elsewhere, the air of predictability persists and what emerges is fairly straightforward renditions of songs like ‘Just The Two Of Us’ and ‘Every Breath You Take’. Among the standouts there is an appealing version of Aerosmith’s ‘Dream On.’  The bonus tracks include a duet with Ben E. King (‘Spanish Harlem’) and a cover of ‘Yesterday’.

There are various approaches that can be taken with an album like this: either a fairly straight run-through, dramatic rearrangements, digging out obscure tracks that lend themselves to the acoustic/flamenco treatment, or embellished with a rhythm section.

Flamenco playing is naturally percussive but I couldn’t help thinking this album might have been enhanced with some sympathetic bass and drums which may have given the whole a more “progressive” and contemporary feel.  Purists of course might think differently.

A fine album, though, to have playing in the background when entertaining dinner guests. ***

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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: BRAVE RIVAL – Thames Side Brewery, Staines,18 February 2024

BRAVE RIVAL- Thames Side Brewery, Staines,18 February 2024

One of my biggest discoveries of 2023 was Brave Rival (a belated one, I know, as this website first marked them as a band to watch in 2019). I saw them three times during the year but the one that has fondest memories for me was the band doing a matinee show at Thames Side Brewery in Staines, the combination of music, ale and a relaxing Sunday afternoon making it one of the best days of the year.

The band must have felt the same way, as less than four months later, their busy gig schedule saw a return to the Surrey town a short train ride away from my West London base, for a show that was again sold out (and suggesting that weekend matinees may be way forward for middle aged blues and classic rock fans?)

BRAVE RIVAL- Thames Side Brewery, Staines,18 February 2024

There are many facets which make Brave Rival unique, one being how comfortable they are switching between a variety of styles. On this occasion they started with some out and out rockers in my own favourite ‘Run And Hide’ with its big hooks and a solo from Ed Clarke living up to his ‘The Shred’ moniker; the rhythmic ‘Bad Choices’ which had people clapping along and ‘Guilty Love’, a perfect example of how the twin vocals of Lindsey Bonnick and Chloe Josephine, powerful yet soulful, work in tandem to create a huge sound.

But then there was a change in style and tempo as the Etta James cover ‘Damn Your Eyes’ began with a slow passage with Ed prominent alongside bassist Billy Dedman, the song concluding with a long bluesy solo showing the other side of the guitarist’s repertoire, while ‘Long Time Coming’ featured Lindsey as the main vocalist.

BRAVE RIVAL- Thames Side Brewery, Staines,18 February 2024

The band had just emerged from sessions recording their second studio album which meant an opportunity to further evolve the set from their autumn visit here. ‘On The Next Round’ was up tempo and made a favourable first impression, followed by the more familiar and lively, funky grooves of ‘Heart Attack’.

Chloe dedicated ‘Magnetic’ to her husband who was at a rare show. For me it was actually one of the more ordinary numbers in the set, in contrast to ‘Insane’, the singer pouring heart and soul into the very personal lyrics in that powerhouse voice which has been nominated for the 2024 UK blues awards, as indeed have the band in other categories.

Following a break, and after checking that the crowd could be trusted to listen rather than natter, the second half began with an acoustic mini set, Donna Peters also switching from drums to guitar. In its new format  ‘Secrets’ was an interesting listen while ‘For The Ones’ was a beautiful song, but even that was eclipsed by their cover of ‘The Sound Of Silence’ with some truly jaw dropping close harmonies between the two singers.

BRAVE RIVAL- Thames Side Brewery, Staines,18 February 2024

Briefly they became three when Gemma Dorsett, another blues singer in her own right and a Staines resident, was summoned from the crowd and her lower, huskier voice added a complementary third line to the vocal attack on a cover of ’Tennessee Whiskey’.

The pace gradually picked up again during ‘All I Can Think About Is You’, and though dedicating ‘Fairy Tale’ to the headbangers present may have been over stating it, both that and ‘Thin Ice’ – the girls conducting the now familiar ‘you’re no good for me, you’re temporary’ audience participation section- rocked convincingly.

BRAVE RIVAL- Thames Side Brewery, Staines,18 February 2024

With material that strong there is no need in my view to resort to tried and trusted covers, yet the band obviously love to slip in a few and they tackled ‘Whole Lotta Love’ with ease with some particularly powerful drumming from Donna. More interesting for me were two originals almost progressive in their approach in ‘Stars Upon My Scars’ with another extended solo from Ed, and Billy, another Staines boy, prominent, on ‘Sink Or Swim’.

The official 7 o’clock finish had already been exceeded, yet there was still time for two of my favourite numbers, with the cheeky ’What’s Your Name Again?’ featuring some fabulously dirty slide guitar from Ed, then the encore ‘Come Down’ was a bluesy epic, Chloe going into the crowd on her knees and again inhabiting the song with that large lunged voice.

BRAVE RIVAL- Thames Side Brewery, Staines,18 February 2024

They may be up for those blues awards but Brave Rival defy any easy pigeonholing, taking vintage influences but creating a unique and very diverse sound of their own. Their other quality, which came over particularly well in a relaxed setting such as this, is the personal warmth that comes over both in the obvious affection they have for each other, and the way they bring their loyal ‘Bravian’ fans into their world. I hope they manage to retain those qualities as they hit the bigger times, which on talent alone they must surely do.

Review and Photos 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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: SWEET CRISIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 17 February 2024

SWEET CRISIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 17 February 2024

Cambridge based Sweet Crisis have been on the scene for quite a few years, peddling a classic rock imbued with large dollops of blues and soul. I’d only seen them before on a couple of impressive and well received support slots, so I was keen to catch a headline show for the first time when they were announced at one of my favourite venues, Noel Nevin’s Cavern in suburban Raynes Park, which punches well above its small size when it comes to an ever more impressive roster of acts. Unusually though they went on first, ahead of the support act, at 9pm to allow for keyboardist Rob Bullock taking an early morning flight.

The openers ‘Great Big Steps’ and ‘Black Magic’ summed up their distinctive sound, relaxed and with loads of space between the grooves, and tasteful soloing from guitarist Piers Mortimer. With a keyboard intro from Rob, ‘Love Me Like Sugar’ had a soulful feel, while after a long guitar intro the insidious groove  ‘Ain’t Got Soul’ had singer Leo Robarts sounding a little like Maroon 5‘s Adam Levine.

SWEET CRISIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 17 February 2024

They have an endearingly laid back stage presence, though that might not work so well on the bigger stages. Leo and Piers give each other good guitar and vocal support respectively and with their  reddish tousled hair and beards even have a more than  superficial physical resemblance.

‘Living Life on The Edge’ was an unexpected but far from self indulgent instrumental where Matt Duduryn’s very cool bass playing made a big contributions alongside the two guitars and both that and ‘Misty Haze’ conjured up the laid back feel of Wishbone Ash’s American exile period of the latter half of the seventies.

SWEET CRISIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 17 February 2024

While the majority of songs came from their debut album which is a couple of years old now, they did try out a new song Get Fired Up’, which was short and punchy and had a bit of a James Brown or Sly Stone influence of pumped up funk. They are too good to need to rely on covers and yet ‘I’ll Be Creepin’ was absolutely made for them as their sparse, bluesy sound owes more to Free than any other band.

‘Rolling In It’ featured a Joe Taylor drum solo but again kept to a decent length before ‘Treading in Deep Water’, a mixture of vintage southern soul (especially in Rob’s keyboards) and Black Crowes -like sounds grew in pace  as it went on. A slightly short set of little over an hour that had flown by ended with the title track of ‘Tricks On My Mind’, short and punchy but with a classic riff pitched somewhere between Free and Lenny Kravitz.

SWEET CRISIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 17 February 2024

It will be interesting to see where Sweet Crisis go from here, especially as and when a second album is released, and the one new song tonight was a good omen. The blues rock field is ever more crowded but the way they conjure up a distinctly laid back groove can help them stand out from the crowd and this gig only strengthened my already favourable impressions.

Review and Photos 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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: ROBBIE MCINTOSH – The Sound Lounge, Sutton, Surrey 17 February 2024

Robbie McIntosh - Sound Lounge, Sutton

In a world of over-hyped musicians and guitarists, Robbie McIntosh is a timely reminder of the virtues of taste, tone, lyrical ability and humility.

Here’s a guitarist with a musical CV that many could only dream of (Paul McCartney, The Pretenders, Tears For Fears, Mark Knopfler, Talk Talk, Daryl Hall,  John Mayer etc)  and yet the image on his truly excellent ‘Emotional Bends’ album is that of a dark shadowy figure with guitar in hand heading for the margins.

Live at The Sound Lounge in his home town of Sutton, he cuts a relaxed figure who revels in his band’s interplay and a tone laden and percussive feel.

He has the priceless ability to musically evoke his own lyrical landscapes, which combined with a natural story telling ability makes you quickly realise we are in the presence a consummate musician.

Pre-gig he mingles with the crowd before suddenly plugging in on a compact stage that just about manages to accommodate his 7-piece band and multiple guitars.

He weaves his way through an opening groove with a mellifluous vocal and sweet guitar tones.

He draws on his own solo career for most of the material, albeit deep into the set he reminds us of the propulsive guitar part that helped propel The Pretenders ‘Don’t Get Me Wrong’ into the charts.

And though he showcases his own sumptuous playing ability and underestimated song-writing talent, he’s more than happy to let his majestic band sparkle.

He jokes about mistaking his set list for a shopping list, when in fact he’s busy pulling together some wonderful ensemble playing, with keyboard player Stephen Darrell Smith  adding organs swells and fleeting bv’s, alongside Hannah Robinson who contributes two of her own songs, most notably the evocative “Holding Up The Sky.’

There’s a restless feel to the breathless ‘Emotional Bends’ title track, on which his rhythm section of Paul Beavis (drums), Steve Wilson (bass) and Kokomo percussionist Jody Linscott provide the perfect platform for some hot picking.

He dips into the same album for ‘Scarecrow’ – a wonderful meeting of his own playing ability and whimsical lyrics – the chiming ‘Rollaway’, which is bolstered by a catchy train- time shuffle beat and Pete Hope-Evans harp tone, and the uplifting melodic sweep of  ‘Joe And Me’ which features another Smith organ break and Hope-Evans county tinged harp.

He updates his musical output with a brace of songs from ‘Seaworld’, the title track of which has an ecological bent, poignant lyrics and the kind of feel that might easily fit a Wes Anderson movie.

The jangling ‘3 Into 2’ is an unlikely meditation on a ménage à trios,  given extra purchase by the repeated chorus and Robbie’s exquisite tone and extended outro riff.

He also changes guitar again for the Hawaiian sounding ‘So Naïve’ on a beguiling slice of Americana.

The corner stone of tonight’s gig is the subtle use of dynamics and everything comes together on a cover of Freddie King’s ‘See See Baby’.

The band stretches out with Robbie in his element on flowing lead runs. Pete Hope-Evans is on tip toes to bend some unlikely notes, flanked by Smith’s organ fills and Jody’s insistent percussion, which helps fill the room with a mix of frisson and jivers.

There’s another magical moment on the atmospheric ‘Hanging On The Line’ on which Robbie’s mix of growling guitar squalls, slide inflected tones, volume swells and sustain rises up to the ceiling, before the inevitable decay gives way to the funky percussive back beat.

It’s an atmospheric feel that brings the room to a hushed reverence, before the cathartic release of applause and cheers.

There’s also the title track from ‘Turn Up For The Books’ which has a lovely lilting feel and wah-wah touches.

A mention too for drummer Paul Beavis, whose nuanced phrasing and lightness of touch glues together deep grooves, well crafted songs and  exquisite band interplay.

It’s all topped perfectly by Robbie’s array of guitars, each of which have a story to tell and a tone to explore.

Review by 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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: ZZEBRA – Hungry Horse (Live In Germany 1975)

ZZEBRA - Hungry Horse (Live In Germany 1975)

MIG Music [Release date 13.12.23]

Fusion/prog rock band Zzebra recorded two studio albums in the mid 70s (and a 3rd in 1975 that remained unreleased for 35 years), and some wonderful music that should have been much more in the public eye. And a band I was introduced to by bassist and good friend John McCoy, who played with the band before joining Gillan in 1978.

The two studio albums, Zzebra (1974) and Panic (1975) were well received, and the band toured across the UK and Europe, and recorded a BBC live session too. This set, recorded in Germany, features tracks from both albums.

The band consisted of vocalist Alan Marshall, saxophonist/vocalist Lasisi Amao, saxophonist/flutist David Quincy, keyboard player Tommy Eyre (later of Alex Harvey, Ian Gillan), guitarist Steve Byrd, drummer Liam Genocky and bassist John McCoy. Byrd and McCoy would later play together in Neo, before (with Genocky) joining Gillan.

The set here opens with ‘Panic’, a mix of blues/prog with jazz overtones and vocal harmonies, the rhythm section providing a fine groove while the guitar and saxophones trade solos; a wonderful mix of jazz and hard rock.

A warm reception from the crowd before the band launch into ‘Mr J’, more funky in both rhythm and vocal structure. The mix on the set is excellent, you can pick out the drum, guitar and bass lines well, although the guitar is a little low at times. Then ‘No Point’ which has a slow build, a heavy rhythm, the lead saxophone playing what would be a guitar line in a more mainstream rock band. A distinct funky feel.

There’s a wonderful instrumental version of ‘You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling’, adding a balladic rhythm’n’blues feel to the jazz rock. A gentler song but a chance for the guitar to shine through. It really showcases what a wonderful guitarist Steve Byrd was.

A few paces faster is The Poverty Song, a more 70s rock/pop feel.

The 16 minute closing track Hungry Horse is a must-listen. At times it sounds like a jam, there’s some blistering shred, some more whimsical keyboards, and the extended percussion solo reminiscent of (Eric Burdon’s backing band) War.

Sleevenotes from John McCoy add to the history and quality of the release.

A wonderful album, shows the musicians’ quality and versatility, and alongside the material previously reissued by Angel Air, there’s a fantastic if small catalogue well worth checking out. ****

Review by Joe Geesin


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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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 PINEAPPLE THIEF – It Leads To This

THE PINEAPPLE THIEF - IT LEADS TO THIS

kScope  [Release date: 09.02.24]

The Pineapple Thief have been around since 1999 – initially on the periphery of progressive rock with their early albums on the legendary Cyclops label.

They were chosen to re-launch the now esteemed kScope label with their ‘Tightly Unwound’ album in 2008, and, as they say, the rest is history – as TPT have gone from strength to strength as a musical force.

Fronted by the somewhat introverted, but insanely talented Bruce Soord, the band have taken on the mantle of one of the most musical and intellectual progressive rock outfits around with their last three studio albums ‘Your Wilderness’, ‘Dissolution’ and ‘Versions Of The Truth’ all garnering top reviews.

It is no coincidence that this uptick in the band’s profile among the prog cognoscenti has followed the recruitment of one Gavin Harrison – initially as a session man on ‘Your Wilderness’ and then a full member, and joint songwriter, on ’Dissolution’ and ‘Versions Of The Truth’.

His time as long-term drummer in Porcupine Tree and one of King Crimson’s “three drummers” has elevated his status to one of the finest sticksmen on the planet and his influence is writ large on ‘It Leads To This’ – the band’s 14th studio album – and an album guaranteed to cement their place at prog’s top table.

Pre-Harrison, Soord was taking the band down the melancholic road to prog bliss-out but it seems Gavin has encouraged him to put pedal to the metal here.

Not that ‘It Leads To This’ is a full-on metal blitzkrieg, far from it, but it’s certainly upped the quotient – compare and contrast to Soord’s outstanding chill-out ‘Luminescence’ from 2023.

Of note is the fact that not one of the eight tracks here clocks in at longer than six minutes, but less is more as the band say everything they have to say with no padding – no fifteen minute wig-outs, just solid songwriting allied to outstanding musicianship.

From Steve Kitch’s opening piano motif on ‘Put It Right’ to the acoustic intro and chilled closer ‘To Forget’ (reminiscent to these ears of Oh Wonder’s ‘All We Do’ – used on the TV series ‘Unforgotten’) the album flows beautifully – with power riffing on tracks like ‘Rubicon’, ’The Frost’ and ‘Every Trace Of Us’ being calmed with the haunting keys of ‘All That’s Left’ and piano interludes on ‘Now It’s Yours’.

There’s no getting away from the fact that the influence of Porcupine Tree is occasionally conspicuous on the album – but that’s hardly surprising given Harrison’s tenure in that band and his status as joint songwriter with Soord.

And it’s no bad thing either – Porcupine Tree are a truly great band and only re-surfacing occasionally these days, so no conflicts of interest…

If I was to have a complaint (and it’s a very small one) it’s that the whole thing is relentlessly dystopian and ends up being judged a star lower than ‘Your Wilderness’, ‘Dissolution’ and ‘Versions Of The Truth’ purely on that basis.

Other than that, truly outstanding musically and testament to the fact that talent will out.

****

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 11 May 2026

BREITLER Sentinel (El Puerto Records)
FIRE IN HER EYES Too Late To Change (indie)
KING FALCON Wait (indie)
BEAUTIFUL SKELETONS Come What May (indie)
KARIN PARK Shadow (Size Records)
HARSH Don’t Mess With Me (indie)

Featured Albums w/c 11 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: CHRISTOPHER CROSS – Bristol Beacon, 20 May 2026

STATUS QUO early years cover 150

For some Christopher Cross represents a moment in time, basically 1980, when his debut solo album was a major success.  He went on to win five Grammys a year later and his career was established. Of course, since that time, … Continue reading

Album review : STATUS QUO – The Early Years 1966-69 (5 CD boxset)

STATUS QUO early years cover 150

BMG/Sanctuary Records [Release date : 15.03.24] This 5 CD, Early Years boxset is one of the most interesting of the Status Quo back catalogue repackaging of recent times. It tracks us through the band’s startup moments in the early sixties, … Continue reading

Album review : LIPZ – Changing The Melody

LIPZ 2 JPEG 150

Frontiers [Release date : 15.03.24] Debut album from young Swedish quartet, Lipz, in which they attempt to breathe life into a dying genre, Glam Rock. We’re told. But how do you define “Glam Rock”? Would that be the early eighties, … Continue reading

Quick plays: RICHARD TRETHEWEY, THE SCHMOOZENBERGS

Richard Trethewey - Two Halves

Richard Trethewey – Two Halves [Release date 15.03.24] Second album from Cornish musician Richard Trethewey is one that was first imagined for vinyl, as side one is songs inspired from Cornwall’s river estuaries, whilst side two would feature songs based … Continue reading

Gig review: GUN – 100 Club, London, 29 February 2024

GUN- 100 Club, London, 29 February 2024

Gun’s profile is set to be higher in 2024 than at any time since they reformed, with songs being used in a Samuel L Jackson movie, festival dates already announced and most importantly a new album in ‘Hombres’, their first … Continue reading

EP review: EDIT THE TIDE – Reflections In Sound

EDIT THE TIDE - Reflections In Sound

Facebook [Release date 26.04.24] Bridgend’s Edit The Tide emerged in April 2023 and are now poised to make a big splash with their inaugural EP, ‘Reflections in Sound’ this April 2024. Comprising accomplished musicians who’ve shared stages with rock giants, their … Continue reading

Album review : ALTERIUM – Of War And Flames

ALTERIUM Of War 150

AFM Records [Release date : 08.03.24] Alterium is a new Italian Symphonic Metal quintet led by Nicoletta Rosellini (ex. Kalidia), a talented artist who juggles several media related careers. She also fronts Goth Metal band, Walk In The Darkness. Of … Continue reading

Album review: CARL PALMER – Fanfare For The Common Man

Carl Palmer

BMG [Release date 05.04.24] Drummer Carl Palmer has had a long and distinguished career, most notably as a founder of prog rock super group Emerson Lake & Palmer. Prior to that he’d toured with Arthur Brown and co-founded Atomic Rooster, … Continue reading

News: EPICA, KATE BUSH, LOVERBOY (March 2024)

THOSE DAMN CROWS – Islington Assembly Hall, London – 24th February 2023

Jon Anderson’s 1988 album ‘In The City Of Angels’, is to be reissued on May 3 through the Floating World/Voiceprint. Babylon A.D. release their new studio album ‘Rome Wasn’t Built In A Day’ in May. Sebastian Bach releases his latest solo album, ‘Child Within … Continue reading

Album review : TURBULENCE – Binary Dream

TURBULENCE Binary image 150

Frontiers [Release date: 08.03.24] Third album from cutting edge Lebanese Progressive Metal band, Turbulence. Turbulence by name… this truly is a Prog Metal album for genre afficionados. We said that the band’s 2023 Frontiers debut, Frontal was “a defiantly bold … Continue reading

Album review: SAMI YAFFA – Satan’s Helpers War Lazer Eyes And The Money Pig Circus

SAMI YAFFA - Satan’s Helpers War Lazer Eyes & The Money Pig Circus

Livewire/Cargo [Release date 08.03.24] Friends will tell you that I am a huge fan of the Stones, Guns N’ Roses, Motley Crue or Def Leppard, and they are right, but for me there is one band that will always remain … Continue reading

Album review : HEKZ – Terra Nova

Hekz - Terra Nova

BMH Audio [Release date: 03.11.23] ‘Terra Nova’ is a British prog rock band Hekz’s first release for 5 years and is a concept album that deals with overcoming different elements of the psyche to realize our potential and become who … Continue reading

Gig review: JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR- Indigo2, London, 22 February 2024

JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR- Indigo2, London, 22 February 2024

2024 is a big year for Joanne Shaw Taylor with a new album ‘Heavy Soul’ on the way, and already a single release, and a UK tour including this, her biggest London headline show to date, albeit in the Indigo’s … Continue reading

Album review : THE END MACHINE – The Quantum Phase

END MACHINE Quantum 150

Frontiers [Release date: 08.03.24] Third album from George Lynch’s “new” band. (Interesting to note that Lynch has “retired” the Lynch Mob band name, admitting that the play on his surname was always “problematic,” but is now “inexcusable” because of its … Continue reading

Gig review: FRASER ANDERSON/EMILY FRASER – Junction 3, Cambridge, 24 February 2024

Fraser

Continuing my February foray to Cambridge’s acoustic gig offerings, the intimate club surroundings of Junction 3 – where the popular New Routes event has its home – hosts some of the very best acoustic and electric talent in the folk … Continue reading

Gig review: CONSTANT FOLLOWER – Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, 22 February 2024

CONSTANT FOLLOWER - Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, 22 February 2024

For those seeking refuge from a harsh world outside, there was no better place than Cambridge, its gleaming spires, ancient waterway, historic places of learning and the constant ring of bicycle bells in the town centre suddenly the epicentre of … Continue reading

Album review : HOLLY LERSKI – Sweet Decline

Holly Lerski - Sweet Decline

Pete Feenstra chatted to Holly Lerski for Get Ready to ROCK! Radio playing tracks from the new album.  First broadcast 3 March 2024. Laundry [Release date: 26.04.24] Holly Lerski’s ‘Sweet Decline’ works hard to capture lingering moments of inspiration as … Continue reading

Album review: STEVE HACKETT – The Circus And The Nightwhale

Steve Hackett

Inside Out [Release date: 16.02.24] As a recognition of 50 (ish) years in ‘the biz’, Steve Hackett, erstwhile guitarist of Genesis, has released not only a landmark 30th solo album, but also bookended his solo career by releasing a concept … Continue reading

Album review : ALBERT HAMMOND – Body Of Work

ALBERT HAMMOND Body 150

earMusic [Release Date : 01.03.24] There just can’t be any Classic Rock artist who can outdo prolific hit writer, Albert Hammond’s “been there, done that, got the Oscar/Grammy/Platinum Disc…” track record. And when you include the fact he wrote the … Continue reading

Album review : AMIGO THE DEVIL – Yours Until The War Is Over

Amigo The Devil 150

Liars Club/Regime Music [Release date : 23.02.24] Interviewed by Rolling Stone magazine just prior to the release of his 2021 album, Born Against (a relevant and revealing play on words), Danny Kiranos explained his love of the music of Leonard Cohen … Continue reading

Album review: RAFAEL RIQUENI – Versatae

RAFAEL RIQUENI - Versatae

Cleopatra Records [Release date 16.02.24] ‘Versatae’ marks something of a departure for the master flamenco guitar player who is held in the same esteem as players like Paco Pena and Paco de Lucia. Rafael Riqueni has lent his skills to … Continue reading

Gig review: BRAVE RIVAL – Thames Side Brewery, Staines,18 February 2024

P1100343 - Copy

One of my biggest discoveries of 2023 was Brave Rival (a belated one, I know, as this website first marked them as a band to watch in 2019). I saw them three times during the year but the one that … Continue reading

Gig review: SWEET CRISIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 17 February 2024

SWEET CRISIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 17 February 2024

Cambridge based Sweet Crisis have been on the scene for quite a few years, peddling a classic rock imbued with large dollops of blues and soul. I’d only seen them before on a couple of impressive and well received support … Continue reading

Gig review: ROBBIE MCINTOSH – The Sound Lounge, Sutton, Surrey 17 February 2024

Robbie McIntosh - Sound Lounge, Sutton

In a world of over-hyped musicians and guitarists, Robbie McIntosh is a timely reminder of the virtues of taste, tone, lyrical ability and humility. Here’s a guitarist with a musical CV that many could only dream of (Paul McCartney, The … Continue reading

Album review: ZZEBRA – Hungry Horse (Live In Germany 1975)

ZZEBRA - Hungry Horse (Live In Germany 1975)

MIG Music [Release date 13.12.23] Fusion/prog rock band Zzebra recorded two studio albums in the mid 70s (and a 3rd in 1975 that remained unreleased for 35 years), and some wonderful music that should have been much more in the public … Continue reading

Album Review: THE PINEAPPLE THIEF – It Leads To This

THE PINEAPPLE THIEF

kScope  [Release date: 09.02.24] The Pineapple Thief have been around since 1999 – initially on the periphery of progressive rock with their early albums on the legendary Cyclops label. They were chosen to re-launch the now esteemed kScope label with … Continue reading