Album review: THE LONG RYDERS – Native Sons Expanded 3 CD Edition
Cherry Red [Release Date: 19.01.24]
Since its 1984 debut, The Long Ryders’ album, Native Sons has been regularly lauded by the music press.
The album’s fusion of Garage, Folk and Country Rock has commonly drawn praise from high profile publications such as Rolling Stone, Mojo and Melody Maker. Some referring to the album as the originator of Americana.
Founder member Sid Griffin has collaborated with the Cherry Red staff to compile this 3 CD boxset celebration, adding 2 discs of outtakes, demos, and live tracks to the original, groundbreaking album.
It’s worthy of note that the label have championed the Long Ryders for many years now, wrapping up the bands first three albums, Native Sons, State Of Our Union and Two Fisted Tales, plus added value live material, in a 2016 boxset, titled Final Wild Years.
An elongated, 3 CD boxset of State Of Our Union and Two Fisted Tales was further compiled and released by the label in 2019.
In amongst the bonus material within this Native Sons’ Compilation there are some genuine gems. More obviously, The 5 x 5 Sessions (originally known as the 10-5-60 EP, basically an audition tape to hawk around major labels, prior to Native Sons) are tacked on the back of the eventual full length album.
Other key demos include the Tokyo Tapes, recorded further back (1982), before the band developed their fully realised sound . . . a merge of the Beatles, The Flying Burrito Brothers and naturally, Bob Dylan.
Talking of which, among the 44 bonus tracks here, the band cover Dylan’s seminal protest song ‘Masters Of War’. Once as a demo and once as part of the band’s live set, recorded at Dingwalls in 1985, which comprises most of Disc 3. Also in this set is a cover of Tim Hardin’s ‘If I Were A Carpenter’, a song steeped in the traditions of English folk music and a huge hit for Bobby Darin in 1968, smoothing his attempted transition from Top Forty Pop to genuine artistry.
The band have seen some members come and go, but three of the four originals, Sid Griffin (a sometime Coal Porter), Stephen McCarthy (a sometime Jayhawk) and Greg Sowders are still together, recording after a fresh start up in 2017.
The Long Ryders never truly evolved from College Campus favourites to chart busting best sellers in the USA, but they progressively gained in reputation and popularity on this side of the Atlantic.
The band’s two most recent albums, Psychedelic Country Soul (2019) and September November (2021) opened to huge critical acclaim in the UK music media. Both have been released by the label they call home, Cherry Red.
Having proven their durability, it looks like longevity will be unavoidable. *****
Review by Brian McGowan
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
For The Grandmaster’s second album, mainman, guitarist and Edguy co-founder, Jens Ludwig has recruited ex Fate vocalist, Peer Johansson.
Surprisingly, given the accessibility of the material they created in previous employment, much of Black Sun needs patience and understanding before it really starts to register.
Unless of course your brain is naturally attuned to Power Metal with the occasional teutonic twist.
In which case, the title track, ‘Black Sun’ will have the immediate impact for which it is clearly intended.
It introduces us to the first of the album’s filigreed blasts of neatly orchestrated metal. Johansson’s cement mixer vocals come alive with a rumble and a gritty aftertaste, aided and abetted by Ludwig’s fret bending axework, a rolling current of melodically inclined noise.
‘Heaven’s Calling’ sees the band tumbling headlong into the welcoming arms of NWOBHM. A fast paced, foot on the monitor blast that cranks up from a growl to a wail in the blink of an eye.
In among the mayhem, Ludwig’s finger blurring axework never loses sight of the melody, tracking it across the song with skill and alacrity.
Between times, we have a nicely turned piano ballad, ‘Fly, Icarus Fly’; the contemporary lyrical message of ‘Learn To Forgive’ (with a cleverly constructed exotic backdrop) and the biggie, ‘Watching The End’, where Johansson’s mouth-of-nails vocals demolish the scenery and anything else within vocal range.
And it’s evident by now that Johansson’s and Ludwig’s talent and professionalism provide the music with a solid power metal core, pumping up the drama on standouts like ‘While The Sun’ and ‘Soul Sacrifice’.
Both tracks are marginally more accessible than the openers, meaning we don’t have to work quite as hard to tune in.
What they succeed in doing is ensure the album maintains momentum, surging and melodic, encouraging all around to uphold the urgent, declamatory nature of the genre.
Fine album. ***1/2
Review by Brian McGowan
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Album review: TEMPEST – Tempest/Living In Fear (Remaster)
BGO Records www.bgo-records.com [Release date 06.10.23]
The two albums released by Tempest in 1973/4 marked a musical departure for jazz rock drummer Jon Hiseman who – at the time – was best known for his work with Colosseum and to a lesser extent the New Jazz Orchestra. The latter collective he co-founded with Neil Ardley.
For his new venture – which he later described as “a thinking man’s hard rock band’ – he recruited Colosseum’s bassist and vocalist Mark Clarke and a little known guitarist Allan Holdsworth. Completing the line-up – on keyboards and vocals – was Paul Williams who had fronted Juicy Lucy on that band’s second album.
Compared to Colosseum, Tempest’s music was more accessible – more rock than jazz-rock – as demonstrated on their eponymous debut released in 1973. The album is characterised by Holdsworth’s fluid (and heavy) riffage (a slightly different style than his subsequent jazz/fusion excursions) whilst Williams’ vocals lend the band a Jack Bruce/Cream vibe.
Prior to the second album guitarist Ollie Halsall (Patto, and later with Kevin Ayers) had joined and ultimately replaced Holdsworth although for a time the band had a two-guitarist line-up. Keyboard player Paul Williams also left so that by the time of Living In Fear Tempest was now a trio.
The second album, released in 1974, was less jazz/blues tinged and definitely rockier. This must have been Halsall’s influence and he also contributed writing to half the album. There’s a rather straight version of ‘Paperback Writer’ which suggests that at this time the band were not concerned with greater commercial success and merely played what they wanted. And not even tethered by label boss/producer Gerry Bron.
The bonus tracks included on this reissue are ‘You And Your Love’ and ‘Dream Train’ from the band’s final recording sessions but – as the liner note references – there was a BBC “in concert” recorded in June 1973 and it’s a pity this couldn’t have formed a third CD. Especially as, according to writer Charles Waring, the original transcription disc version can sell for £1600. Waring’s notes give a track by track breakdown of both albums.
Collector’s note: The ‘Under The Blossom’ anthology package released by Castle in 2005 did include the BBC tracks together with the two albums and bonuses on 2 CDs.
With declining interest in the band, from both label and the wider public – and little success in the States – Tempest ultimately blew themselves out. ***
Review by David Randall
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Album review: ATOMIC ROOSTER – Made In England/Nice ‘N’ Greasy (Remaster)
BGO Records www.bgo-records.com [Release date 06.10.23]
The reconfigured Atomic Rooster have been a staple of many prog and classic rock festivals since 2016 when they received Vincent Crane widow’s blessing. Carrying the band’s flame are sometime members vocalist Pete French and guitarist Steve Bolton, the latter featured on the first of these two remasters. Steve is also quoted extensively in the liner note.
Made In England (1972) followed their ascendancy in 1971 (when they had a couple of hit singles) but marked a change in direction with a definite jazz rock feel. Chris Farlowe replaced French on vocals (French appeared on the album ‘In Hearing Of Atomic Rooster’) and was best known for his sixties hit ‘Out Of Time’ and stint in jazz rockers Colosseum.
Farlowe’s vocal style fitted in well with band mainman Vincent Crane’s vision, evidently influenced by American funk-soul. The addition of brass to tracks ‘Time Take My Life’ and ‘Stand By Me’ also suggests contemporary bands like Ides Of March and even Sly & The Family Stone.
The band’s musicality is ably demonstrated on the outstanding instrumental ‘Breathless’. Bolton’s writing contributions are actually the weakest, although it’s Crane who takes the lion’s share with drummer Ric Parnell penning a couple of songs. Overall, and even factoring in the changing style, the album is a little inconsistent.
The funk/R&B vibe continued on 1973′s Nice ‘N’ Greasy but without Bolton. He was replaced by John Goodsall (who appears on the album as Johnny Mandela) who later worked with Phil Collins in Brand X. (The album ‘Marscape’ is also worth checking out).
Goodsall/Mandela lends his talents notably to the opener ‘All Across The Country’ and the seven minute somewhat rambling ‘Voodoo In You’ whilst ‘Save Me’ recalls the band’s earlier single ‘Friday The 13th’ complete with horn section. There’s another standout instrumental ‘Ear In The Snow’.
Both ‘Goodbye Planet Earth’ and ‘Take One Toke’ are essentially jam tracks that don’t really maximise Farlowe’s presence with the former in particular merely repeating the mantra “keep your nose on the tracks”. This contrasts with the big ballad and one time single ‘Can’t Find A Reason’ which is enhanced by a string arrangement.
The bonus tracks – ‘What You Gonna Do’ and piano-led instrumental ‘Moods’ were actually included on the original U.S. album release whilst ‘Satan’s Wheel’ (excluded on the U.S. version) is like a variant of ‘Save Me’.
No doubt Dawn Records (a subsidiary of Pye) were as confused by the band’s approach as some of the fans. After the release of these two albums and without wider commercial success the band were dropped by the label. By 1974 only Crane remained in the line-up. In spite of a revival in 1980, the band had already witnessed their heyday a decade earlier.
Several compilation albums came out on Angel Air in the early 2000s under the guidance of one-time guitarist John DuCann but using dubious source material. The label also released the 1980 reunion album in 2005. In spite of a four album plus bonuses package released in 2017 (by Esoteric) there’s an argument that the time is now ripe – over fifty years on – for a definitive box set of the band’s work including live and radio sessions. ***1/2
Review by David Randall
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Single review: WALTER TROUT Feat: WILL WILDE – Bleed
Provogue Records [Release date 15.12.23]
Walter Trout’ New Year single called “Bleed” featuring British blues harp player Will Wilde, is an up tempo boogie shuffle with an uplifting message.
It’s an exhilarating taster of what we might expect from the ambivalently titled forthcoming album called “Broken”.
It’s been said that “Bleed” represents Trout’s first actual boogie song, though “Love So Deep” from “Go The Distance” and “Mayall’s Piano Boogie” from “The Blues Came Callin’” might suggest otherwise.
If Trout has consistently managed to search inside himself for new waves of emotional intensity down the years, this single does the same in terms of musical virtuosity.
Will Wilde’s presence also provides Trout with a fresh catalyst and also unusually pushes the latter into the unusual role of being a perfect foil for a harp player who forgoes tonal subtly for sheer power driven riffery.
It’s also a song with an empathetic vocal on a declarative narrative which makes the connection between overcoming a broken relationship and the need for emotional honesty and simply letting go: “But life is just a gamble, There ain’t nothing guaranteed, And to be prepared for love man, You got to be prepared to bleed.”
The two front line soloists serve the song well. Will Wilde’s incredible lung capacity squeezes every last breath out of his harp to suggest emotional turmoil.
Trout’s own resolution comes in the shape of a ripping solo that traces an arc of emotion, moving from a cry of despair to the joy of hope, with which this scorching single illuminates the darkest night.
The relentless drive of song is a result of real feel and perfect syncronicity to be found between the two outstanding players and Trout’s rocking band.
It takes the formidable presence of powerhouse drummer Michael Leasure’s punctuated drum roll to call time on the perfect rock-a-boogie single with which to start the New Year. ****
Review by Pete Feenstra
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Album review: PALADIN – Paladin/Charge! (Remaster)
BGO Records www.bgo-records.com [Release date 13.10.23]
I have to say that I’ve only known Paladin from digging through crates of vinyl at record fairs and noting the Roger Dean artwork. It all looked a bit prog. Now the band’s only two albums have been remastered on 2 CDs. And they’re very good.
The opener on Disc One, the debut album Paladin released in 1971, is a brilliant jam track ‘Bad Times’. It is led by Peter Solley’s Hammond and backed with Derek Foley’s syncopated guitar. It brings to mind early Santana and even Focus and the free spirit of ‘Anonymus’. Solley and drummer Keith Webb played in Terry Reid’s backing band in the 1960s before forming the band.
Paladin weren’t afraid to display their musical prowess with a long instrumental ‘Dance Of The Cobra’ although perhaps “of its day’ with an extended drum solo. Apparently this was even more extended in the live context. It was, after all, the early seventies!
A percussive backbeat is evident on ‘Third World’ which features an almost rap vocal but unfortunately is an unwelcome distraction. This is redeemed by ‘Fill Up Your Heart’ which features more of that great guitar/organ interplay and with a definite early Santana feel.
Any band continuity was effectively scuppered with the departure of pianist/vocalist Lou Stonebridge and Derek Foley around the time of the second album release in early 1972.
Charge! (1972) moved up a notch in terms of production with Beatles engineer Geoff Emerick at the helm. It would be easy to class Paladin as “prog’ but in truth they are more varied than that.
Again the second album had the jam-tracks like ‘Give Me Your Hand’ (reminding a little of Caravan in places), and ‘Get One Together’ (Santana?), whilst ‘Anyway’ sounds like ELO and ‘Good Lord’ could be the Allmans. ‘Watching The World Pass By’ is perhaps the most proggy with a folky mid-section before Foley jams out a great finale.
The mixing of British and Transatlantic styles (The Band and Little Feat also come to mind) should have at least ensured the band’s passage to the States but by late 1972 they had disbanded.
Bass guitarist Pete Beckett would find fame with Player and a U.S. No.1 single in 1978 whilst Stonebridge joined McGuinness Flint and did session/production work. Peter Solley subsequently joined Snafu and Procol Harum, later early Whitesnake, then became a producer. Webb and Foley have since passed away, and Solley in November 2023. The band did come back together for the album ‘Jazzattack’ in 2002 which saw them revisiting (and re-recording) former glories.
It’s a pity BGO didn’t secure bonus tracks (other than the non-album single, the pub-rocker-ish ‘Sweet Sweet Music’) as several BBC sessions are known to exist. But, as an introduction to a somewhat overlooked band, this new package is very welcome. As ever, well packaged including informative liner notes. ***1/2
Review by David Randall
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
‘This Is What I Want To Say’ sees Martyn Joseph in stripped back acoustic mode, aided by a few guest musicians, most notably the mournful cello playing of Liz Hanks.
‘Albert’s Place’ is a beautiful song, commissioned by BBC Radio 2 and based on the work of the Sunderland Community Soup Kitchen, which serves hundreds of people on a daily basis. The chorus sums it up -
“And Albert’s Place has seen it all,
The meat and coal when the big ships sailed
But maybe now the greatest day of all
Brings tea, in a cup of love”
‘Waiting For Rain’ is so, so powerful in its lyric of a Syrian refugee settling into Wales and the piano and cello work wonderfully together. Other highlights include ‘Don’t Need No Cathedral’ (a song that also reminds us what a fine guitarist he is too) and ‘It’s A Fine Thing’, a song written for the wedding of one of his children.
Not an album to have on in the background as it requires the listener’s full attention, and after listening to it you certainly come away thinking about and questioning many things. Martyn Joseph is here in his rawest songwriter form providing one of his strongest albums to date, both in terms of songwriting and impact it has on the listener. ****
Review by Jason Ritchie
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
News: KREATOR, ARCH ENEMY, DAN PATLANSKY (January 2024)
Art Of Anarchy release their third studio album, ‘Let There Be Anarchy’, on February 16 via Pavement Music. Jon Votta (guitar),Vince Votta (drums) and guitarist Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal are joined by vocalist Jeff Scott Soto and bassist Tony Dickinson.
The Black Keys new album ‘Ohio Players’ is due out through Nonesuch on April 5.
Tony Iommi revealed in his New Year message that the Tony Martin era Black Sabbath box set is due for release in May.
The Black Crowes release their first new album in fifteen years, ‘Happiness Bastards’, on March 15 via their own record label Silver Arrow Records.
Blaze Bayley releases his latest album ‘Circle Of Stone’ on February 25.
Bon Jovi have an exclusive limited-edition, 40th anniversary edition of their self-titled debut album released as a ruby colour vinyl LP on March 24 and limited-edition cassette on April 5 via Island/UMR.
Parlophone Records have announced details of a limited-edition David Bowie album called ‘Waiting In The Sky (Before The Starman Came To Earth).’ It will be released for Record Store Day on 20 April.
Kate Bush’s 1982 album ‘The Dreaming’ is being re-issued on vinyl, with new artwork and renamed ‘The Dreaming Escapologist Edition’ on February 14.
Cruzh have announced the release of their new album, ‘The Jungle Revolution’, on March 22 on Frontiers. They have released ‘FL89′ ahead of the album.
The Dandy Warhols have released new single ‘Danzig With Myself’ featuring Pixies’ Frank Black. The track is taken from new album ‘Rockmaker’, which is out on 15 March.
Elbow have released a new song, ‘Lover’s Leap’, ahead of their latest album ‘Audio Vertigo’, which is released on March 22 on Polydor/Geffen.
Triumph guitarist Rik Emmett has a best of collection released on March 1 via Dekko Entertainment, entitled ‘Diamonds – The Best of the Hard Rock Years 1990 – 1995′.
The End Machine release their new album ‘The Quantum Phase’ on March 8 through Frontiers.
A new Steven Wilson remix of Gentle Giant’s 1977 album ‘The Missing Piece’ is released on CD, Blu-ray and coloured vinyl through Chrysalis records on February 23.
Hammer King release their new album ‘König und Kaiser’ on March 22 on Napalm Records.
Jadis release their new album ‘More Questions Than Answers’ in the spring.
James release their new album ‘Yummy’ on April 12 via Virgin Music, with the single ‘This Is Love’ out now.
Billy Joel releases his first new song in nearly two decades. ‘Turn the Lights Back On’ is released worldwide on February 1.
Kill The Lights, who feature ex-Bullet For My Valentine bassist Jason “Jay” James and drummer Michael “Moose” Thomas, will release their new album, ‘Death Melodies’, on March 8 via Fearless Records.
Mark Knopfler releases his latest album ‘One Deep River’ on April 12 via Blue Note.
Kreator plan to record their next album in 2025 and a documentary on the band is also planned for release in the same year.
Sam Lee releases his new album ‘songdreaming’ on March 15 via Cooking Vinyl.
Arjen Lucassen has resurrected an early 1990s project with singer Robert Soeterboek. They will release ‘The Long-Lost Songs’ as Lucassen & Soeterboek’s Plan Nine through Music Theories Recordings/Mascot Label Group on May 17.
MC5 aim to release their delayed album ‘Heavy Lifting’ later this year. It features guests including Slash, Tom Morello and Vernon Reid.
Phil Mogg’s solo album, ‘Mogg’s Hotel’, is due for release in February.
Billy Morrison (Billy Idol, the Cult) releases his third solo album ‘The Morrison Project’ on April 19 via TLG/Virgin Music Group. Guests include Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol, DMC, Al Jourgensen, Steve Vai, Steve Stevens, JOHN5 and more.
Motorhead release ‘The Löst Tapes – The Collection (Vol. 1-5) 8CD Boxset’ on February 23.
Two members of Fates Warning, singer Ray Alder and guitarist Jim Matheos, have formed North Sea Echoes. They release their debut album ‘Really Good Terrible Things’ on February 23 via Metal Blade.
Dan Patlanskywill release his new album ‘Movin’ On’ on March 1.
The Quill has announced their 11th album, ‘Wheel Of Illusion’, out on March 29 on Metalville Records.
Troy Redfern releases his latest album ‘Invocation’ on May 7 through RED7 Records. He has recently released another single of the album entitled ‘The Strange’.
Ride release their new album ‘Interplay’ on March 29 via Wichita Recordings/PIAS.
The Rolling Stones release a new live album from their 2002-03 Licks World Tour. ‘The Rolling Stones Live at the Wiltern’features the band’s November 4, 2002, concert from Los Angeles’ Wiltern Theatre and it is released n March 8.
Tuk Smith & the Restless Hearts have released their latest single ‘Take The Long Way’ via Golden Robot Records.
Stryper plan to release two albums this year. An acoustic one, which has been in the works for awhile, and a electric one.
Timson release their debut album ‘Forever’s Not Enough’ on January 12.
The Treatment(pictured) have released a new single ‘Back To The 1970’s’ from their upcoming album ‘Waking Up The Neighbourhood’, which will be released via Frontiers later this year.
Former Journey bassist Ross Valroy releases his debut solo album ‘All of the Above’ in April.
The Who will release in its entirety their Shea Stadium show from 1982′s first farewell tour on CD and vinyl for the first time. ‘Live at Shea Stadium 1982′ arrives on March 1.
Zebra re-release of their first album on coloured vinyl with a bonus disc of rarities and out-takes later in 2024. The band are also working on a new studio album and are planning a box set release too.
Newly announced UK tours (2024 unless stated):
Alkaline Trio (Jul), Anthrax + Kreator + Testament (Nov), the Black Crowes (May), Blondie (Jun), Eagles + Steely Dan (May-Jun Manchester), the Fierce & the Dead (Oct), Korn, Kula Shaker (Apr-May), Dan Patlansky (Apr), Robert Plant with Saving Grace (Mar-Jul), the Teskey Brothers (Sep), These Wicked Rivers (May), Richard Thompson (May-Jun), Robin Trower (May), Wednesday 13 (Oct-Nov), the Wildhearts (Jun 6 London),
Joe Perry hopes Aerosmith will resume their farewell tour in the summer or fall/autumn of 2024.
Manowar’s first US gig in a decade. which will take place on November 30 at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, New York, has now sold out.
Pandemonium Rocks is scheduled to appear in Melbourne, Sydney, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. Acts set to appear include Deep Purple, Alice Cooper, Blondie, Gang Of Four, the Psychedelic Furs, Placebo and Wheatus.
Rage Against The Machine drummer Brad Wilk has said in a recent interview that the band have no plans for future live shows.
Toto’sJoseph Williams and Steve Lukather have announced the return to the band Greg Phillinganes (keyboards, vocals) and Shannon Forrest (drums). They tour the US until April, with European dates set for the summer and UK shows will be in early 2025.
Whitesnake guitarist Joel Hoekstra will be replacing Phil Shouse for Accept’s South American and European festival dates.
Rival Sons and Those Damn Crows will support ZZ Top at their only UK show this year at Wembley Arena on July 11.
Dream Theater’s keyboards player Jordan Rudess will be part of the touring line-up for the Dixie Dregs upcoming US tour.
Postponed/cancelled gigs & tours
Corey Taylor has cancelled his upcoming US tour.
Nine Skies have cancelled their UK tour which was due to start in March.
Steve Harley is rescheduling all shows that were scheduled to take place between March and June 2024, whilst he recovers from ill health. Most shows have been rescheduled to 2025, bar shows at Whitby, Stafford and Solihull which have been cancelled. Shows that were scheduled for October and November 2024 have also been cancelled.
Metal Church have cancelled all their planned shows for 2024 as guitarist Kurt Vanderhoof undergoes treatment for his back.
Vinyl sales in the UK during 2023 topped 5.9m units, aided by the likes of new albums from the Rolling Stones and Taylor Swift. These represent the highest annual vinyl sales since 1990.
EMI was the top streaming label in the UK in 2023, followed by RCA. Warner’s Rhino Music was the top streaming catalogue label.
Streaming accounted for 87.7% of music consumption in the UK last year, according to UK record industry trade group BPI, with 179.6 billion streams being delivered across 2023. CD sales are still in decline, down 6.9% on 2022, and cassette sales were down by 30%, from 195,000 units to 136,000 units.
ABBA’s Voyage, the band’s digital concert residency, contributed £322.6m in turnover to the London economy in 2023.
Plans are afoot for a stage musical based on Prince’s ‘Purple Rain’ film.
London’s O2 Arena has revealed that more than 2.5m arena tickets were sold in 2023.
TikTok’s Add To Music App has now been out rolled to 19 more countries, following a joint US and UK launch in November 2023.
Roger Daltrey has announced that he is stepping down as curator of the annual Teenage Cancer Trust shows at the Royal Albert Hall after this year’s series. He has overseen the gigs since they began in 2000. From 2025, each year’s performers will be selected by a different guest curator.
The BBC has announced plans to auction off 285,000 vinyl records from its vaults over the next year and a half. They include rarities from The Beatles, David Bowie and more. The first lot – which also includes a number of pieces of old equipment – will go up for sale on 30 January.
Michael Bolton is recovering from surgery to remove a brain tumour and his 2024 live dates are to be confirmed later this year.
A new spin-off radio station is launching in February called Boom Rock to go with Boom Radio and Boom Light. Nicky Horne is one of the presenters and he currently presents the drivetime show on Boom.
An Elvis Presley avatar will form part of a virtual performance show due to premiere in London in November. Titled Elvis Evolution, the digital version of the Elvis is being created by Layered Reality.
Christine McVie’s ‘Songbird’ Yamaha C3 Baby Grand Piano she played on stage with Fleetwood Mac for two decades is the star lot of an upcoming charity auction. Proceeds go to the charity MusiCares, which was founded by the Recording Academy in 1989.
In Through the Out Door…line-up changes
Arch Enemy have “amicably” parted ways with long-time guitarist Jeff Loomis and his replacement is Joey Conception.
JOANovARC have added two new members – Chloe Whitworth (drums/backing vocals) & Emma Hodgson (lead vocals/guitar) – and the band plan to tour and release new music later this year.
John Mitchell (Frost*, It Bites, Lonely Robot) has replaced Jonathan Casey in the David Cross Band.
Drummer Daniel Hill has left Enuff Z’Nuff.
Diamond Head drummer Karl Wilcox has joined Tank for their upcoming live dates and recording their new album.
Guitarist Mark Stephenson and bassist Paul Hamilton have left the Darker My Horizon, with Jamie Bannon and Mike Wigglesworth replacing them respectively.
Bruce Kulick has left Grand Funk Railroad, after twenty three years in the band.
Bassist Joey Vera has left Mercyful Fate, with Becky Baldwin replacing him.
Guitarist Tommy Johansson has left Sabbaton.
Reckless Love have announced that they are taking a break from touring and recording, plus drummer Hessu Maxx is leaving the band.
Asking Alexandra’s founding guitarist and main songwriter Ben Bruce has announced he is leaving the band to spend more time with his family.
Grateful Dead producer and archivist John Cutler
Director David Leland who worked with George Harrison, Paul McArtney and the Travelling Wilburys
Phil Hare singer, songwriter & guitarist
Del Palmer, long time bassist and engineer for Kate Bush
Annie Nightingale, the first female DJ on BBC Radio 1 and presenter on The Old Grey Whistle Test throughout the 1980’s
Mary Weiss, lead singer with the Shangri-Las
Singer songwriter Melanie and one of the stars of the original Woodstock festival
Former Kingdom Come and Scorpions drummers James Kottak
Magnum guitarist and songwriter Tony Clarkin. His family released the following statement: “On behalf of the family it is with profound sadness that daughter Dionne Clarkin is sharing the news of the passing of Tony Clarkin. Following a short illness, he died peacefully surrounded by his girls on Sunday 7th January 2024.”
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Album review: TALK – Lord of the Flies & Birds & Bees
Capitol Records [Release date 20.10.23]
Nicholas Durocher, known professionally as Talk, is a Canadian singer-songwriter and musician from Ottawa, who recently released his debut album, ‘Lord of the Flies & Birds & Bees’, which charted at number 33 in his native Canada.
Executively produced by hitmaker Justin Tranter, it includes Talk’s debut single ‘Run Away To Mars’, a song that made it to number one on the Spotify Global Viral 50, and reaching multi-platinum certification around the world, including in Canada, Sweden, Norway and more.
“The concept for ‘Lord of the Flies & Birds & Bees’ was dreamed up by my executive producer Justin Tranter and I,” TALK explains. “I think what we created was almost exactly what was originally envisioned—an album that was made with love and heart, that I hope will put a smile on people’s faces or be a warm hug to those who need one.”
Gave this album a listen after reading a review in a magazine and since first playing the album it has become a firm favourite. Shame I didn’t hear it earlier in the year as it would be shoe-in for my year end top five albums. It is Talk’s vocals and the musical arrangements/sound, particularly in the harmony vocals, that make this album that little bit extra special.
Imagine Dragons come to mind on ‘History’, with its superbly OTT guitar solo, whilst album closer ‘Set On Me’, has a whiff of classic Coldplay about it (yes dear reader, such a thing does exist!).
Easy to hear why ’Run Away To Mars’ was such a global hit. From its gentle acoustic riff through to Talk’s heartfelt vocals, it really is something rather special. ‘Fall For You’ has that hit potential too. More upbeat and another one to utilise his vocal talents to the max.
Just over 33 minutes of theatrical rock bliss. Talk’s debut is a grand affair and he is an artist on the up & up. Get onboard now and say you were there at the start of something special and magical. ****
Review by Jason Ritchie
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
The Survival Code are an independent London based rock duo with a passion for RIFFS, SOARING MELODIES, BANGIN’ DRUMS and some of the most energetic live shows you’ll ever see. Best known for their song “So Serious” from their 2019 release “Crosses To Carry, Coffins To Fill” which has nearly 1.5 million streams on Spotify, they’re following that up with 12 singles in 12 months in 2023. Their 11th single from the release “Waiting In The Wings” available everywhere.
The latest offering “Whispers of Woes” is an album that’s filled with emotive and contemporary tracks that explore what it’s like to be human and navigate the challenges and opportunities of the music industry in the digital age.
Recorded and produced with Matt Hyde (Gallows, Ash, Slipknot) in the band’s studio/rehearsal room, ‘Whispers of Woe’ is a sonic document that attests to not just the strength, resilience and growth that artists and bands need in today’s music business, but also innovation and adaptability in what are extremely challenging times for musicians.
As a band the Survival Code has witnessed common music industry murkiness, from underhand band management tactics resulting in money being stolen from the group, to a former touring member concealing significant drug issues, and more. However, the band has celebrated significant wins; notably previous EP, ‘Crosses To Carry, Coffins To Fill’, has amassed over 3 million streams with the single ‘So Serious’ alone generating 1.6 million streams and counting.
‘Whispers of Woes’ heightens previous releases by the Survival Code, London UK alt rock band, with singer/songwriter Gary McGuinness delivering his best songs yet through rich song writing that’s enhanced with effective production values. Grit, guts, fizz and fuzz are complemented with hooks and melody in abundance, whilst the lyrics pull no punches in their stories, or rather whispers, of anguish. The songs on this new album will resonate with many creative artists who choose (or rather it chooses them) to navigate the complex landscape of the modern entertainment industry.
When first listening, I immediately can see the influence of Biffy Clyro and Foo Fighters. Two bands that I have much musical respect for.
Track listing and track review -
1: “The Heart Will Bleed” the first track on the album. Will be one I can see myself belting out on a regular basis. Lyrically just phenomenal.
2: “Never Knew You Existed” jeez Louise the guitar on this track is insane! This track feels heavier musically. This track really stood out for me in showcasing this bands musical and vocal talent.
3: “For Right, or Wrong, for Better, or Worse”
A song about trying to navigate your way through the world? It being crazy and not feeling like you have all the answers but moving on and pushing on?
Lyrical genius!
4: “We Are Just Fooling Ourselves”
I can imagine Belting this one out at a live show, jumping up and down. Fabulous!
5: “Sum of all Our Parts” this is my favourite track. Just so powerful lyrically and musically.
6: “Built to Break”
this track brought gritty guitar riffs and a gritty sound vocally.
7: “Haunted by Myself” another stand out track for me. We have all at times had internal battles. This track showcases that struggle perfectly.
8: “Choreography and Chaos” this track really showcases this bands vocal range and ability.
9: “Can’t Be Explained” this track felt quite grungy. Loved it. I could actually really hear the drumming talents on this one. This track was slower paced than others but still packs the same punch and carries the same impact as the previous tracks.
10: “Digging Your Own Grave” although emotive, this track had a bouncy energy to it.
11: “Waiting in the Wings” this packed a punch with heavy riffs throughout. My favourite track musically on this album. Fantastic guitar solo on this one.
12: “Random Faces” what a way to end an album.
Fist in the air energy with this one. Definitely a sing it out loud track.
Listening to this album on the whole I have to say I cried.
Having gone through a really rough patch in my life the lyrics really hit home. It uncovered so many emotions which is what I think the band wanted to convey with this album. I think so many people will resonate lyrically with this album one way or another. The talent shown vocally and musically is on another level.
Well done is all I can say. Fantastic album! One I will definitely be playing on a regular basis. ****1/2
Review by Lucy Dennis
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
You can’t help thinking – listening to this seventh solo album from acoustic guitarist Jeff Aug – “when is he going to break into ‘Classical Gas’?” Just like that classic acoustic piece, ‘Kiss Of The Liquid Moon’ is, though, very accessible and highly listenable.
Aug is a well established player, born in the USA but living (and touring) in Europe for the best part of two decades. He holds the novel distinction of holding a Guinness record of playing the most number of gigs in different countries during a 24 hour period.
The album works best when Aug is accompanied by cello and upright bass (on ‘Matilda’s Lullabye’) and an unnamed woodwind player on ‘Baritone Butterfly’ which marks this out from the usual solo guitar fodder. This reminds of another fine offering from Mark Vickness.
I am intrigued too by the song titles. It seems that Aug has let everyday concerns come into play, so we have the almost inevitable ‘Quarantine’, ‘Ceramic Tiles’ (a bit of D.I.Y?) and Two Rooms (a bit more D.I.Y.?) But ‘Fuck The Neighbors’ might just be too revealing…
Overall, in spite of the nomenclature, a restful and very appealing acoustic excursion that should sweep you up in its engaging reverie. ****
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.
To search quickly within this page (“Find In Page”):
Press Ctrl+F (on Windows PC, Chromebook, or Linux system), or Command+F (on a Mac) on the keyboard. The “F” stands for “Find,” and it works in every browser.
2024
The Allman Betts Family Revival
Mon December 16th 2024 – NASHVILLE Ryman Auditorium
Tue December 17th 2024 – SEATTLE Moore Theatre
Wed December 18th 2024 – DENVER Paramount Theatre
Fri December 20th 2024 – RENO Grand Sierra Resort Grand Theatre
Sat December 21st 2024 – SAN FRANCISCO Fillmore
THE BLACK CROWES
Sat December 21st 2024 – PORT CHESTER Capitol Theatre
Sun December 22nd 2024 – PORT CHESTER Capitol Theatre
KISSIN’ DYNAMITE
28.12.24 DE – Balingen / Volksbank Messe
JESSICA LYNN
Friday December 20, Saturday December 21 & Sunday December 22 The Acorn Center – Littleton, NC
PHISH
Sat December 28th 2024 – NEW YORK Madison Square Garden
Sun December 29th 2024 – NEW YORK Madison Square Garden
Mon December 30th 2024 – NEW YORK Madison Square Garden
Tue December 31st 2024 – NEW YORK Madison Square Garden
TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA
Wed December 18 2024 – ST LOUIS – Enterprise Center (USA)
Wed December 18 2024 – RALEIGH North Carolina – PNC Arena (USA)
Thu December 19 2024 – INDIANAPOLIS Indiana – Gainbridge Fieldhouse (USA)
Thu December 19 2024 – CHARLOTTESVILLE Virginia – John Paul Jones Arena (USA)
Fri December 20 2024 – MOLINE Illinois – Vibrant Arena at the Mark (USA)
Fri December 20 2024 – NEWARK New Jersey – Prudential Center (USA)
Sat December 21 2024 – PITTSBURGH Pennsylvania – PPG Paints Arena (USA)
Sat December 21 2024 – ST PAUL Minnesota – St Paul Xcel Energy Center (USA)
Sun December 22 2024 – PHILADELPHIA – Wells Fargo Center-PA (USA)
Sun December 22 2024 – MILWAUKEE Wisconsin – Fiserv Forum (USA)
Mon December 23 2024 – CHICAGO Illinois – Allstate Arena (USA)
Mon December 23 2024 – WASHINGTON District Of Columbia – Capital One Arena (USA)
Thu December 26 2024 – COLUMBUS Ohio – Nationwide Arena (USA)
Thu December 26 2024 – HOUSTON Texas – Toyota Center (USA)
Fri December 27 2024 – CLEVELAND Ohio – Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse (USA)
Fri December 27 2024 – SAN ANTONIO Texas – Frost Bank Center (USA)
Sat December 28 2024 – DALLAS – American Airlines Center – TX (USA)
Sat December 28 2024 – DETROIT Michigan – Little Caesars Arena (USA)
Mon December 30 2024 – OKLAHOMA CITY Oklahoma – Paycom Center (USA)
Mon December 30 2024 – TORONTO Ontario – Scotiabank Arena (Canada)
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Album review: ROBBY KRIEGER AND THE SOUL SAVAGES – Robby Krieger And The Soul Savages
The Players Club [Release date: 19.01.24]
Robby Krieger and The Soul Savages live up to their name by occupying a groove filled musical arc that conjoins a soulful feel with jazz, funk, fusion and psyche jam band influences.
You could argue with the band name The Savages, as this quartet is far more subtle than either wild or frightening. Indeed, it’s the essential organic feel of the album that makes it more interesting than just another jam night at The Baked Potato.
And while the former Doors guitarist provides an array of tonal colours, he always serves the song while leading an intuitive and at times inspired band.
Everything is built on a groove foundation full of breathless interplay and sparkling solos, helmed by the supreme rhythm section of rock solid bassist Kevin ‘Brandino’ Brandino and the relentless drive of drummer Franklin Vanderbilt, who push guitarist Krieger and keyboard player Ed Roth to the max.
This allows the quartet to consistently tap into the moment to see where their spontaneity takes them.
Aside from the grooves, the key to the instrumental album’s sonic appeal is the subtle use of tonal contrast. This is exemplified by Robby’s use of both jazzy and slightly distorted tones, as well as a sitar and even a Hawaiian sounding slide. Keyboard player Ed Roth also explores the full girth of his Hammond and the hypnotic dream like qualities of the Fender Rhodes.
It’s also an album that places the guitar, Hammond and electric piano-led instrumentation in its historical jazz and blues antecedents, such that when they allow the funk and fusion influences to bubble to the top, they have the basis of an old school album played with verve and élan.
That said, musical virtuosity and intensity alone, don’t necessarily make for a great album. So they sensibly opt for a mid-70’s jazz fusion feel, in which the ‘call and response’ interplay between Krieger and Roth on ‘Killzoni’ for example, monetarily evokes Chick Corea’s Return To Forever.
And as if to emphasize their versatility, the intricate ‘Samosas And Kingfishers’ delivers a late night jazzy feel on which Krieger’s resonant sitar tone finds the perfect foil in Roth’s organ, via several tension building moments as they work their way back to the theme.
The band sets out its musical direction on the opening ‘Sharp Skinned Suit’, a luscious groove with a layered sound that still gives Krieger plenty of room to utilize his tone colours.
The band coalesces seamlessly with the only disappointment being the sudden fade just as they are going into overdrive.
Things get funky on the lead single ‘A Day In LA’, which is glued by together by Brandino’s funky bass and is punctuated by a mix of cowbell, organ stabs and piecing guitar notes, leading to some exotic sounding slide.
There’s a lovely counterbalance of a funky undertow with a lightness of touch on the excellent ‘Ricochet Rabbit’. Krieger’s nimble fingerwork evokes such players as Wes Montgomery and George Benson, leading to Roth’s full blown jazzy piano solo either side of Krieger’s varied tonal explorations.
The tic-toc percussion, fretless bass and languid organ lines of ‘Never Say Never’ is different again, with an eerie layered sound with castanets and funky electric piano, while Kreiger fiercely solos with a growled and slightly distorted tone.
It’s on tracks like this where you hear the band’s subtle use of space, time, precision and intensity, with each member coming to the fore like waves on a shore and then receding again into the arrangement.
As with all instrumental albums, you have to work hard to keep the flow and momentum going until the very end, and the band just about achieve this by contrasting the sludgy heavier funk opening, swift tempo changes and a mid-shuffle break of ‘Blue Brandino’ with the more up tempo angular jazzy feel of ‘Math Problem’.
The latter provides an organ led meandering bookend to an otherwise concise and ebullient album. ****
Review by Pete Feenstra
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Gig review: OCEAN COLOUR SCENE – Eventim Apollo, 16 December 2023
There’s always been a sense that, despite their success, Ocean Colour Scene have been one of the most under rated bands to emerge during those heady, somewhat hedonistic days of the Britpop era.
Certainly, whilst the constant inclusion of one of their tracks in Chris Evan’s T.F.I. programme on Channel 4 and a great relationship with the Gallagher brothers and Paul Weller helped push their profile, there’s was a huge amount of depth to the band. Not for them the jangling pop or laddish terrace anthems, but something a little more studied and rounded that dripped with soul and class.
Three decades on from their initial breakthrough after a stuttering start, the band are back on tour and their trip to a packed Hammersmith Apollo showed them at their best, despite ongoing vocal problems for frontman Simon Fowler causing the set to be shortened.
Given the lusty crowd singing from the off, he needn’t have worried too much as every word of every song seemed to be sung back to him by three thousand voices, the sound as euphoric as it was deafening. With a giant, and subtly used, video screen being the only adornment onstage, this was a night about the songs, apt opener ‘One for the Road’ a delightfully nostalgic bit of Rolling Stonesy delicately swaying.
A majestic ‘Families’ and the rocking ‘July’ give way to a truly anthemic ‘Better Day’, the screen’s images of old footage bringing a heady rush. Throughout, Steve Craddock added both power and a delightfully delicate touch to his playing, his subtle fretwork driving the songs and not any desire for egotistical flash.
In fact, the nearest he gets to guitar hero is during exuberant set closer ‘Hundred Mile High City’, the thrill of the driving riff alongside of Oscar Harrison’s skittering drums and the pumping bass of Raymonde Mead demanding heads and bodies move.
Whilst the fans were at fever pitch from the off, the sight of Paul Weller joining the band onstage for ‘The Circle’ and ‘Travellers Tune’ was enough to turn the whole place into a broiling mass of bodies ecstatically cheering.
Along with ‘The Modfather’, the legendary P.P. Arnold joined along, staying with the band for three songs, her voice a thing of sublime wonder that perfectly contrasted with Fowler’s rough-edged croon. This was a great slice of Northern Soul, the grit and honeyed tones of both the vocals and instrumentation adding a joyous authenticity to the whole thing as they rolled back the years to another era.
Touches of gentle reggae warmed ‘Debris Road’ and there’s a late period Beatles vibe to ‘Half a Dream Away’ before apologies about cutting the set short and the promise of a couple of bangers to finish from Craddock herald ‘The Riverboat Song’ and the aforementioned ‘Hundred Mile High City’ in all their pneumatic glory.
Coming back for a solo run through of ‘It’s My Shadow’, the outpouring cheers of support for the vocally ailing Fowler saw the singer obviously touched with the emotion, unable to speak for a few long seconds.
With the whole band joining him for the pastorally psychedelic ‘Get Blown Away’ and closing the night with the hugely anthemic ‘The Day We Caught The Train’, it was a triumphant return to the most famous stage in the capitol and one that Ocean Colour Scene well and truly deserved. All Saturday nights should be this uplifting.
Review by Paul Monkhouse
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Gig review: GEDDY LEE – Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow – 14th December 2023
Tonight, we had something a bit different, Geddy Lee in conversation to promote his autobiography, ‘My Effin’ Life’, which has just been released. With Rush in hiatus following the sad passing of Neil Peart, for fans of the band this was as close as we were going to get to a live Rush experience, and there was a healthy crowd in for the evening’s entertainment.
Each night of the tour featured a different guest interviewer for the first half of the show and there have been some big names filling the slot so far. In Glasgow the seat was filled by comedian, music fan and long time resident of Fife, Phil Jupitus.
Phil came on and did a quick and highly amusing warm up slot where he discussed amongst other things disruptive seals and what Fife actually stands for, something that can’t be repeated on GRTR! , but very accurate!
However, we were all here to welcome Geddy and as he came on stage a huge cheer went up and the crowd took to their feet. As the sustained applause started to wane, someone shouted ‘1,2,3,4’ and the crowd burst into the opening verse of ‘Closer To The Heart’ recreating the Glasgow choir that featured on ‘Exit Stage Left’ album from the legendary Glasgow Apollo. Geddy looked genuinely touched by this and it set the tone for the evening.
The first hour was taken up with a cosy chat with Geddy and Phil in a living room type setting. Phil joked that the set was created by Canadian beavers especially for the tour! The conversation covered many things from Geddy’s mother and her time in a concentration camp during the second world war to his father’s passing and the tragedy of losing Neil Peart. All these topics could have been a bit heavy and maudlin, however Geddy’s retelling of these stories was laced with love, stories of resilience and a great determination to battle on through adversity.
The laughs were plentiful throughout, especially when the tales featured the exploits of the band joker, Alex Lifeson. Geddy and Alex met when they were 13 and have been a partnership for the last 57 years and judging by the stories told, there was never a dull moment!
One tale recounted was the infamous speech given by Alex at the band’s Rock n Roll Hall Of Fame induction. On this special occasion all band members had a chance at the mic to express their delight at finally making it into the Hall Of Fame. However, when Alex took to the mic, he abandoned the set speech running in the autocue and instead babbled ‘Blah, blah, blah’ for two minutes. Geddy and Neil were taken aback by this and were busy working out how to knock him out and drag him off stage as they thought he had finally flipped!
The first half was rounded off with Geddy taking to a lectern at the front of the stage to read a passage from the book. The chosen passage started in the Glasgow Apollo in 1977 and went on to describe the bouncing balcony that the old lady was famous for. Many bands became very concerned when the Apollo balcony started to move, and the band had been pre-warned that, although this was a feature, the building was (mostly) sound.
The tale then moved to Manchester for a two night stint that included a Cognac drink contest on the first night, which led to a nearly nude Alex running through the hotel corridors. He personally went and apologised to all the hotel staff the following day for the trouble caused and all was well.
Following a quick interval, Geddy took to the lectern once more to read another passage, this time concerning comments on his vocals from the early days of the band. Reviewers can be a fickle lot and some of the comments made were less than complimentary, just goes to show how much they knew…
The last part of the evening was a Q&A session hosted by Phil Wilding. The questions had been submitted by the crowd in the most part, but the first was from a Mr A Lifeson from Canada, which led to explanation of why the phrase ‘It’s not a f**kin’ football’ features in the crowd noise intro to the song ‘Witch Hunt’!
Other questions included ‘who would be Geddy’s ideal dinner guests?’ and ‘what song would he point someone to as an introduction to Rush?’ Don’t think anybody in the crowd would have had their money on him saying ‘Dreamline’ and for what it’s worth I would have suggested ‘Natural Science’ myself!
I wasn’t sure what to expect from tonight, but this proved to be a highly entertaining evening with tales that brought a tear to your eye, either with laughter or sadness. Geddy hinted that he and Alex may not be quite finished yet and are meeting regularly to discuss the future. Fingers crossed, there may be a few more chapters to add in the coming years.
Review by Dave Wilson
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Album number five from Autumn’s Dream, and like the band they morphed from, Last Autumn’s Dream, they are regular as clockwork releasing a new album at the start of each year. Mikael Erlandsson is still at the helm, however, not sure if Jona Tee of H.E.A.T. and Crowne is still involved as can’t seem to find anything about the band’s current line-up.
There are a smattering of guests including Swedish opera singer Karin Funk on the album’s first single ‘Gates of Paradise’. A song that not only has a nice heavy riff but also features a nifty keyboards solo.
Other guests include Magnus Rosén, former bassist of Hammerfall, on the title track and Moon Safari guitarist Pontus Åkesson on ‘A Strike of Lightning’.
Of interest to AOR fans will be Alien’s Jim Jidhed duetting on ‘Juliet’. As Mikael states – “I have always wanted to do a duet with my old friend Jim Jidhed – and now we finally did it!”. Classy song and duet – very Journey like at times – making for one of the album’s highlights.
Elsewhere the upbeat ‘Here Comes the Night’ is a single if ever there was one, sounding not unlike a heavy rock version of ABBA on the chorus!
‘On Top of the World’ leaves a big smile on the listener’s face, whilst the glam rock stomp of ‘Come Get It’ is great fun. This one shows Mikael Erlandsson’s love of the 70′s glam rock of Slade, Sweet and Wizzard.
Autumn’s Child will (sadly) never become a big name, yet they are consistently good on their albums and this latest one will delight their fans, along with anyone who loves hook filled melodic rock. ***1/2
Review by Jason Ritchie
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Gig review: HALESTORM – Wembley Arena, London, 9 December 2023
Halestorm have maintained a continuous but steady upward trend in popularity on the UK. Nearly 14 years after I first saw them open up for Theory of a Deadman and Heaven’s Basement at the Electric Ballroom, came a career highlight, headlining Wembley Arena and virtually selling out, helped by this being the sole UK date on a European tour, and a support band in Black Veil Brides who, judging by the t-shirts and hair and makeup, brought a substantial fan base of their own.
A second woman opened proceedings in the curiously named Mothica, blonde haired and in a red dress, accompanied only by a drummer, guitarist, and liberal use of sampled sounds. ‘Casualty’ and ‘Vices’ called to mind a cross between Avril Lavigne and Evanescence, interspersed with a Bring Me The Horizon cover in ‘Can You Feel My Heart’.
The Gen-Z generation is much more comfortable than my own at self expression and jaws dropped as she tearfully recounted in the first 20 minutes her young history of sexual assaults and suicide attempts, inspiring ‘Buzz Kill’ and ‘Forever 15’ respectively. The Smashmouth cover ’All Star’, with balloons being thrown into crowd, was easily the most enjoyable of her set, while she got the crowd to sing ‘f— forgiveness’ on a new song before ending with ‘Sensitive’, showing her poppier side, even with a Britney Spears vibe. She was a distinctive character we may hear more from in the future, hopefully once someone has told her there is no such language as ‘British’ (sic).
I was curious to see Black Veil Brides as a band I’ve heard much about over a decade- plus career yet never really managed to catch other than fragments of the odd set at Download. The strobe lighting was certainly impressive but had the effect that the band were shrouded in darkness, though from what little I could see they had toned down their earlier image a little. After opener ‘Crimson Skies’ had me wishing singer Andy Biersack would not growl so much, far more palatable were ‘Rebel Love Song’, with people punching the air, and substantial parts of the standing audience bouncing to ‘Wake Up’, taking up where Lostprophets left off.
With guitarists Jake Pitts and Jinxx going back to back for some swift but flashy twin guitar leads reminiscent of mid-eighties Priest, ‘Nobody’s Hero’, ‘Devil’ and ‘Scarlet Cross’ set an unrelenting pace which dropped a notch for ‘Torch’. There were a couple of older songs in ‘The Legacy’ with the standing crowd raising devil horns right to the back, and ‘Knives and Pens’. ‘Fallen Angels’ even had me singing along to a chorus I instantly picked up on and reminded me of likes of Hinder, and ‘In The End’ was another to get the mass ranks jumping. In a slick 50 minutes set which maybe should have been upgraded to co-headlining status, I enjoyed them far more than expected- I just wish I could have seen them properly out of the darkness!
With ‘Beyond the Realms of Death’ and ‘Power Slave’ suitably metallic warm-ups over the PA immediately prior, Halestorm came on with a elaborate light show and stage set up that screamed ‘arena ready’. They began with Lzzy Hale, unaccompanied, screaming ‘raise your horns’ at the top of her lungs then a surprise as usual set closer ‘I Miss The Misery’ opened the set with her and fellow guitarist Joe Hottinger swapping solos on an extended closing section. I did feel that she was screaming a touch too forcefully and indeed the notably heavier direction they have taken in recent years meant another of those classics from ‘The Strange Case of…..’ in ‘Love Bites (So Do I’) was so brutal as to be initially unrecognisable.
Inviting the women for whom she is so clearly a role model to get on people’s shoulders, ‘I Get Off’ from the debut album felt a little disjointed, and included a snatch of Heart’s ‘Crazy On You’ delivered by Lzzy crouching on the floor before segueing into new song ‘Wicked Ways’. After the massed ranks at the front were bouncing to ‘Freak Like Me’, ‘Amen’ turned into an extended, though frankly not terribly exciting, jam with solos from Joe then Lzzy.
In contrast the two showed their subtlety on ‘Terrible Things’, opening a brief acoustic sequence which followed with a snatch of ‘Rock Show’, leading into ‘Familiar Taste of Poison’. Their treatment of this song really worked well as it burst into full electric life halfway through and became an epic with a solo from Joe and low key bassist Josh Smith joining in to compete with him who could play the fastest, all the while as Lzzy crouched down and pounded the stage.
After the unexpected ‘Taste My Life’ – I thought I had misheard Lzzy introduce a song from 2005 but no, it dated back to the ‘One and Done’ EP that even preceded their first album, came the predictable but always entertaining drum solo from Arejay Hale, whose tousled hairstyle was like a slime green version of Boris Johnson’s, concluding with playing those baseball bat sized drumsticks.
Of a couple of heavier numbers from last album ‘Back From The Dead’, the title track possessed a catchy hook, the latter less so. ‘I Am The Fire’ was another highlight with an intro with both Lzzy and Joe on 12 string guitars and the whole crowd holding up their phone lights, but it took me by surprise to see the stage go dark after as the main set had flown by.
For something completely different, the encore saw Lzzy alone at piano and, after a typically gracious expression of pride and thanks, play a medley of ‘Break In’, ‘Shatter Me’ and a full length ‘Raise Your Horns’. She carried the tunes which is no mean feat to make this format work in an arena, showing an added string to her talented bow.
‘Here’s To Us’ was a suitable follower to an end of tour round of shots, and had people waving their arms, even those of us in the seats. The delivery was rather sloppy however, so it was a relief to conclude in rather tighter and crunchier fashion with a titanic ‘The Steeple’, again in a heavier mould but judging from the reaction a modern day Halestorm anthem, before the gig ended in a shower of confetti and one of the longest band goodbyes I can remember.
I’m not totally sold on the heavier approach they have progressively taken, but this show proved two things – Lzzy Hale is on top of her game and can tackle a variety of styles, and Halestorm have made the grade as an arena act.
Review and Photos by Andy Nathan
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
My first introduction to Mae McKenna was her 1991 album ‘Mirage And Reality’. Bob Harris on his overnight BBC Radio 1 show was a big fan and played the album regularly. I spotted it in a rack in a local record store and when, sadly, the store closed they were selling it off at a reduced price. It was worth a punt; also, Steve Hackett played on a couple of tracks. (See link below).
Rewind to the late seventies and BGO have brought together Mae’s three solo albums for the folk/rock specialist label Transatlantic on 2 CDs. Bonus tracks on Disc 2 feature the 1974 single she cut with her early group Contraband.
The debut Mae McKenna (1975) immediately brings to mind the pure tones of an early Joni or a Judy Collins and is given a classy treatment with orchestral arrangements. It could have easily been made the other side of the pond.
The album is well produced MOR/pop and featured various cover versions including Neil Sedaka’s ‘The Other Side Of Me’ and Elton John’s ‘Elderberry Wine’. As we glean from the liner note, with the benefit of hindsight it seems that Mae now realises just what a good album this was from a vocal point of view. She was only 18 but it could be argued the style was very much “old before your time” and it was not a direction she wished to pursue.
It is perhaps no surprise that the follow-ups Everything That Touches Me (1976) and Walk On Water (1977) went full-on West Coast MOR with American producer Ritchie Gold who drafted in ace sessioner Elliot Randall. They again feature mainly cover versions and with a country pop flavour permeating the 1976 release.
In truth the arrangements are all very safe and throughout you wonder what might have happened if Ritchie and Randall had imported a Steely Dan cool to the proceedings. In this respect ‘Walk On Water’ only really hints at what might have been with the tracks ‘Driven Away’ and ‘Love Me Tomorrow’ (written by Toto’s David Paich) but the rest is a little lightweight.
Mae came from the McKenna dynasty, sister of musical siblings Hugh (Sensational Alex Harvey Band) and Ted (Rory Gallagher, Michael Schenker), and John who contributed the only original songs to these albums.
After this flourish of activity in the late seventies, McKenna went on to session work, singing backing vocals on most of the Stock, Aitken and Waterman hits and working with many top name artists. She also toured with the Jesus Christ Superstar musical.
She later re-started her recording career with an album of original material that preempted the popularity of Celtic/pop crossover as popularised by The Corrs in the 1990s. Since that time she has continued to record more Celtic/Americana themed pieces including 1997′s ‘Shore To Shore’ and she’s currently a vocal coach. Her philosophy chimes with another fine vocalist, Norway’s Liv Kristine, who after some success in a band and with solo albums moved into a similar sphere.
These three handsomely resurrected albums show a singer plucked from a folk rock band and still finding her musical direction. Evidently Mae McKenna distanced herself from these works for some years but with age comes wisdom and we can all benefit from re-assessment. ***1/2
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.
Album review : NIGHT RANGER – Dawn Patrol and Midnight Madness (Reissues/Remasters)
Rock Candy Records [Release date : 27.10.23]
Two more Night Ranger reissues from the house of remasters.
The band’s secret weapons are evident from the off on Dawn Patrol (1982), the debut album.
In Kelly Keaggy and Jack Blades they had two gifted songwriters and vocalists. Most rock bands were lucky to have one of each.
It’s also clear that they were a highly motivated, energetic young band. Their music displays all the emotional urgency and melodic momentum of great AOR on this remarkably assured debut.
The opening tracks, ‘Don’t Tell Me You Love Me’ and ‘Sing Me Away’ are delivered with such singular certainty that you can’t fail to be impressed. Stripped away from the album, both songs made it into the Billboard Top Forty.
They built on that success with Midnight Madness (1983).
This second album delivered three hit singles that remain the most popular songs in the band’s considerable canon to this day.
‘(You Can Still) Rock In America’ and ‘When You Close Your Eyes’ both accelerated past the 10 million streams mark on Spotify a while back. Nothing compared to ‘Sister Christian’s one hundred million hits and counting.
Listening to the album now, you can very much hear echoes of the Glam Rock sound that dominated popular music in the seventies, eventually evolving into the commercially accessible pop metal of Dawn Patrol and more especially, Midnight Madness.
The achingly sentimental ‘Sister Christian’ established the rock ballad as a winning, chart busting formula. Piano intro, slow build, punchy vocal harmonies, climaxing with a wiry, melodic axe solo. Other bands, like REO Speedwagon, successfully adopted this formula.
(Little known fact: Glenn Hughes provided studio backing vocals on ‘(You Can Still) Rock In America’.)
Producer, Pat Glasser knew his way around a mixing desk. He left such a solid foundation behind in the master tapes that the remastering proved to be a relatively straightforward task for the boffins at Rock Candy. ****
Review by Brian McGowan.
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Quick plays: OUR MAN IN THE FIELD, TRAGIK, THE LAST HURRAH(!!)
OUR MAN IN THE FIELD Gold On The Horizon In The Field Recordings [Release date 03.11.23]
Our Man In the Field is not a band per se as it’s the pseudonym of British singer/songwriter Alex Ellis. He released his debut album in 2o20, which garnered good reviews along with plays on BBC 6 Music. Previous to this he was an actor.
Singing wise Alex Ellis comes across as a mix of Van Morrison and particularly David Gray (the haunting ‘Great White Hope’ being a good example).
Opener ‘Feel Good’, which despite its upbeat tempo, is based on his life experience of his acting agent at the time blowing his earnings on drugs and prostitutes. ‘Go Easy’ is a fine piece of Americana as you’ll hear this year and ‘Glad To See You’ features some glorious pedal steel playing by Henry Senior.
An album to savour and keep an eye out for Our Man In The Field as he’s an artist with plenty to say and memorable songs to say it with. ****
Review by Jason Ritchie
Feb 10 2024 Nottingham, The Angel
Feb 11 2024 Sheffield, The Greystones
Feb 12 2024 Birmingham, Kitchen Garden Cafe
Feb 13 2024 Oxford, The Jericho Tavern
Feb 15 2024 Manchester, Gullivers
Feb 16 2024 Glasgow, The Glad Cafe
Feb 17 2024 Newcastle upon Tyne, The Cluny
TRAGIK Realm Angelic Rock Company Records [Release date 20.12.23]
Album number twelve from Tragik, who feature that man of many albums (and talents!) Phil Vincent. Long-time Tragik cohorts drummer Dirk Phillips and guitarist Damian D’Ercole are both involved, along with Vince O’Regan on lead Guitars and once again the album is mastered by Jacob Hansen.
‘Genesis’ packs a powerful punch both riff and solo wise, whilst ‘Sorry To See You Go’ is a solid rocker with a catchy chorus. One things for sure, over the years Phil Vincent hasn’t lost his knack of penning catchy choruses.
Phil Vincent’s love of the Beatles see Tragik cover ‘Yesterday’ and in typically heavy form, almost to the detriment of the vocals.
You know what you are getting with a Tragik album, namely riff heavy, melodic hard rock and this album is another solid album in their repertoire. ***1/2
Review by Jason Ritchie
THE LAST HURRAH (!!) Modern Nostalgia TBC Records [Release date 27.10.23]
The Last Hurrah !! is the brainchild of Norwegian music connoisseur, producer and musician HP Gundersen. The album promises to take you on a journey similar to John Barry, Serge Gainsboug and Marianne Faithful via the Laurel Canyon.
When the pandemic started in 2020, HP Gundersen moved to the countryside with his pianist wife Cecilie Leganger and set up a studio in the basement. All normal musical activity stopped, but he had a close circle of friends of musicians who helped create this album.
‘Internet Troll’ features Tim Scott McConnell on vocals, on a song that has a modern lyric, yet a sound steeped in those classic 70s albums from the likes of Jackson Browne. In fact on ‘Dusty Road’ you could be forgiven for thinking it was a long lost Jackson Browne tune!
If Brian Wilson ever did a psychedelic country & folk album with Jackson Browne & Tom Petty it would quite possibly sound like this. Not instant by any means, however, worth the listener’s time and vocalist Maria Due adds that extra bit of special magic on the songs she takes lead vocals on. ***
Review by Jason Ritchie
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Gig review: FM – The Forum, Tunbridge Wells, 1 December 2023
Yet another busy gigging year in FM’s ever hard working calendar ended in the unlikely surroundings of Tunbridge Wells, the genteel Kent town famous for its spa and the mythical disgusted letter-writing retired colonel. Its commutable from both the South Coast and my own London location even when the trains are as horrendous as they were this day, so the Forum, a converted toilet no less but a small venue with an excellent sound and set up, enjoyed a good attendance.
The night was nicely warmed up by Diamond Black, the latest project of former Night by Night and Sisters of Mercy member Ben Christo, who describe themselves as gothic AOR, a rare juxtaposition. A lot of the arrangements did indeed have a gothic feel, allied to synth pop influences, with keyboards liberally piped in to augment the traditional power trio on stage.
Yet songs like ‘Fall Into The Silence’ and ‘If You Kill My Demons’ boasted more traditional melodic rock choruses and were not too far removed from something that Vega could have come up with. The lyrical themes though seemed darker – indeed there was even a song called ‘Dark Anthems’ while closer ‘Sorrow’ had an unusual song structure yet was a real grower. British melodic rock acts are a bit thin on the ground at present, so they are a welcome and different addition.
On the other hand FM are a reliably known quantity, and opened as they have for most of the last couple of years with ‘Synchronised’, which has grown on me to the extent it ranks alongside their best loved older songs. Talking of which, it gave way to the big choruses and hooks of ‘Tough It Out’, before ‘Killed By Love’ got people singing along to the ‘yay yay yos’.
Steve Overland then joked that he hated singing ‘Someday You’ll Come Running’ and only did so under fan pressure, yet he seemed to cope with its soaring chorus with ease, then after a brief intro from Jim Kirkpatrick, looking very dapper in T-shirt and suit, ‘Let Love Be The Leader’ concluded with some harmony guitars between him and Steve.
‘The Dream That Died’ was one of the less obvious choices in the set, but the classy arrangement and superb vocals including Jim and Merv Goldsworthy’s backing vocals left me wondering how it was another potential hit that somehow got away back in the day.
‘Face to Face’ featured the crowd taking over from time to time, a harmony guitar break with the tones of mid-seventies Thin Lizzy and some excellent drum fills from the ever reliable Pete Jupp.
The cramped stage ensured both he and keyboardist Jem Davis were pushed further forward, the latter to the front edge of the stage, giving me an excellent vantage point to appreciate at close quarters that thorough keyboard work that complement the guitars in AOR at its best. ‘Crack Alley’ was another excellent song brought back from obscurity by fan demand though it felt a little less instant among this particular set.
Steve introduced ‘American Girls’ with a reference to his late brother Chris and said it was another one that tested his vocal range: it’s a personal favourite for a number of reasons that I think they should play more often and the lusty chant of ‘Destination USA’ suggested I was not alone.
It started a run of one of their eighties classics after another- the ballad ‘Frozen Heart’ was another to have the crowd taking over to every word and my AOR cup was truly running over with delight at the melodic hooks of ‘That Girl’, ‘Bad Luck’, complete with harmony guitars and a mid section keyboard bridge from Jem worthy of Survivor, and ‘I Belong To The Night’.
I don’t know if it this was a conscious tribute to Chris Overland, but this was as AOR driven a set as I’ve seen from them in a long while with the lion’s share from the first two albums that he played on. Nevertheless it finished with a song to rank with their best from last album ‘13’ in ‘Turn This Car Around’- with Jem on electric piano, the song has a storytelling theme reminiscent of ‘Bon Jovi’s ‘Blood On Blood’ or even ‘Born to Run’ and it was the perfect vehicle for the band to swap places around the cramped stage with big smiles and even a cheeky snatch of ‘Caroline’.
The encores also followed recent tradition, Jem the main accompaniment to a near solo rendition by Steve of ‘Story Of My Life’ showing off that wonderfully soulful voice before more infectious choruses and stage movements to ‘Other Side of Midnight’, the only disappointment being that, presumably due to space limitations, Jem did not come out from his back of keyboards with his keytar.
Steve referred a couple of times to 2023 being a year to forget with Chris’ passing and Jem’s cancer battle among other things. Yet their unforced joy in playing together always creates a feel good atmosphere.
It means their live shows are always capable of entertaining even those who may not be big fans of the band’s studio work. But, if like me, you are a British melodic rocker, preferably one for whom those first two albums played a big part in your life, this night was even more memorable. With new product in the horizon, roll on another busy year of touring activity on 2024 for a band that get better with age.
Review and Photos by Andy Nathan
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
News: The Best of 2023 – The Get Ready to ROCK! Reviewer Selections (December 2023)
2023 marked the 20th anniversary of Get Ready to ROCK! This may not have been a vintage year for album releases but many artists consolidated their position with touring and the odd reissue.
In spite of the economic crisis it did feel as though music was getting back to normal business following the decimation wrought by, and slow recovery from, Covid.
Once again our reviewers have been active selecting their personal favourites. GRTR! is all about diversity of opinion and the end of year selections are usually… diverse. We haven’t therefore attempted an overall top chart placing in each category. But we have included the top selections of our genre editors.
And it is worth mentioning that four reviewers gave Europe as their Top Live Act with the band’s 40th anniversary tour.
Rock is getting old and in 2023 we lost such stalwarts as Jeff Beck and more recently Bernie Marsden. It’s fitting that Bernie’s posthumous album – completed this summer – tops one of the best of genre listings.
On Sunday 17 December, a two-hour special was broadcast on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio featuring a selection of reviewer favourites
Queen’s Brian May has been knighted in King Charles first New Year’s Honours list.
Iron Maiden feature on a set of Royal Mail stamps which will be available from January 12.
British recorded music retail revenues – streaming, download, CD and vinyl sales – were up 3% last year to £1.98bn, according to the UK’s Entertainment Retailers Association. Vinyl sales were up 11% to £150.5m, while CDs were down 17.4% to £124m.
Jeff Beck dies
The Darkness enter “The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness”
Ozzy Osbourne picked up two awards at this month’s Grammy awards. Best Metal Performance for ‘Degradation Rules’ (featuring Tony Iommi) and Best Rock Album for ‘Patient Number 9′.
Yes and their management have explored every possible avenue to arrange insurance cover for the tour in the event of COVID-related exemption or Act of War exclusion. The insurance industry has withdrawn all such insurances which made touring possible pre-COVID and before the Ukraine conflict, which means as a result Yes have postponed their planned European and UK dates for 2023.
KISS have announced their final shows, two nights at Madison Square Garden, New York on December 1 and December 2.
First time seeing Bonnie Raitt live and what a performance. With a top notch band, coupled with her guitar playing and singing, made for one of the gigs of a lifetime, never mind 2023.
Two legends back together for a memorable night of music, anecdotes and wheelie bin solos!
CALUM GILLIGAN & KATIE GRACE HARIS Corn Exchange, Faringdon
Had not heard a note of music by either artist before the gig and left it mightily impressed by both performers and a firm fan of both. Folk gigs are a little bit special as it is where the stories and tales really come alive at the hands of such talented performers.
Yes they have been around awhile but their hard work in gigging and series of hard hitting albums will finally see them reap their well deserved success in 2024 and beyond. This year they supported the likes of KISS and early next year they embark on their first UK arena healdine tour.
After the impressive and well received ‘The RAK Tracks’ EP and new music due next year, along with further live shows, will see Tom Webber finally make the next step up the musical ladder of greatness.
His Glass Knight album just missed my year end choices. He’s on a quest to build enough of a following through gigging and social media, to play his own headline gig at the Royal Albert Hall. Based on his talent and determination this will be happening sooner, rather than later.
Kip Winger chatted to David Randall for Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, featuring tracks from the new album. First broadcast Sunday 7 May 2023.
This is what happens when you are a death metal band with time on your hands during Lockdown. Add in excellent vocalist Brittany LeAnn and ‘Lilac’ is all ambient groove and very compelling.
A 40th anniversary outing for the Swedish melodic hard rockers, mixing documentary film footage with key landmark albums/tracks. Here’s hoping they recover the energy and urgency of their comeback albums in the early noughties, with a new studio album due for 2024.
Breakthrough Acts 2023
There are a handful of riff merchants worth keeping an eye out for. DEAD MAN’S WHISKEY released their second album this year whilst South Wales based FLORENCE BLACK have postponed another sophomore release – ‘Bed Of Nails’ – until February when they play UK dates. They impressed our man Andy Nathan when they replaced another fine band (Mason Hill) at the last minute at this year’s Stonedead event.
Bournemouth rockers SOUTH OF SALEM release their second album in January and most recently played a sell-out series of headline dates. Reviewing the band at Stonedead this year Andy Nathan commented “For many people they were the discovery of the day and I must admit my own expectations had been pleasantly exceeded.”
I enjoyed the EP released by SIN DOGS – ‘Renascence’ – a nice blend of melodic rock groove and we await more gigs and an album in 2024.
On the lighter side of the spectrum Liverpool based EXPLORING BIRDSONG continue to enthral and intrigue in equal measure with their EP – ‘Dancing In The Face Of Danger’ – released in March this year and their most recent single – a Deftones cover – ‘Diamond Eyes’.
This album followed on from Standing On The Edge, which was crowned my to album of 2021, and proved to be another cracker. Robin’s voice is in great shape and the songs rock hard and heavy.
This was a surprise release as I had no idea the guys were back in the studio and proved to be another laid back, melodic masterpiece. As with ‘Troika’, released in 2022 and winner of my top spot last year, this album is all about the glorious harmonies and melodies. Best listened to whilst driving down Pacific Highway in California, top down and shades on!
The ex-Yes guitar maestro returned to vocal duties on this album for the first time in over 30 years. An eclectic mix of prog, pop and everything else in Trevor’s creative mine, he delivered an album shot fuel of great songs and fantastic musicianship.
This was my first Sabaton gig and they didn’t disappoint. With a huge stage set, fantastic light show, pyro, flames and the best tank drum riser since Eric Carr of Kiss rolled in on his back in 1983, the guys put on a stunning show. Add in an undercard of Lordi and Baby Metal and you had all the ingredients to make this my gig of the year.
This was an unexpected, but most welcomed, chance to Rock ‘n’ Roll All Nite one final, final, time with Gene and Paul. The show and setlist hadn’t changed much since the first farewell show in 2019 but no one cared, this was a celebration of all things Kiss and they went out with one hell of a bang! By the time you read this Kiss will have played their last show in New York and the rock world will be a little less fun without them.
This show was all about celebrating the band’s 40th anniversary and with a setlist culled from all points in the band’s history, it made for a night to remember. It’s easy to label Europe, as people do, on the strength of The Final Countdown, but that is to do them a huge disservice. The gig served to show how diverse and heavy the band can be, especially when John Norum lets loose on the fretboard. This was the perfect anniversary party complete with a fantastic soundtrack.
The show was courtesy of my brother who was still having a guilt trip about not getting me a ticket to see Mr Gabriel at the Glasgow Apollo back in 1983! So glad I finally made it along (thanks Iain!) and the show was well worth the wait. Gabriel was in great form and given the fact that the set was full of new and unreleased songs from his upcoming new album, no one felt short changed.
When Bad Magic came out in 2015 it silenced many a critic that said Motorhead were done and that Lemmy was a spent force. This album was 100% Motorhead with the power and f**k you attitude both present and correct. This re-release also had additional tracks and a full live set recorded in Japan with Lemmy and Co doing what they did best, playing rock n roll!
Heavily inspired by their distinguished past and the classic Heep sound with a praiseworthy willingness to embrace lengthier songs and instrumental passages. Yet it still comes over in a very fresh manner, and Heep join a select bunch of veteran bands (including close contemporaries Deep Purple) who are sounding as good as ever. Indeed classic heavy rock does not come much better than this.
This mellow and beguiling album, with its timeless pop-influenced melodies, demonstrates a totally different string to Luke Morley’s bow and comes highly recommended as the perfect easy listening for the summer’s hot days.
Combining a sleazy glam image with the ability to craft more AOR styled melodies and choruses to rank with the very best…this feels like their most convincing and best produced effort yet.
One of the standard bearers for a new generation of contemporary AOR out of Scandinavia with their most consistent sound yet.
Live Acts
1 EUROPE London Palladium
In an august setting, a beautifully presented sonic autobiography of Europe’s first 40 years. With many oldies restored to the catalogue, I haven’t enjoyed a Europe show so much in years.
Sobering perspectives of the passage of time and losing friends along the way was matched by a vibrant performance of youthful energy from these (mainly) seventy somethings, celebrating the joys of live music and the interaction between musicians and audience, and that unique combination made this show special even by their standards… for me, there is no better live act than the E Street Band.
I’m so glad I saw him end such a glorious career of live entertainment on a high. A great showman, but more importantly one with an instantly recognisable body of work to rival the Beatles, the Stones and Queen as British pop acts for the ages, and with a depth that his fine band was able to bring out.
I am a huge convert to BRAVE RIVAL’s unique and distinctive melange of styles. I see both they, and KIRA MAC who are releasing follow up album, maintaining their upward momentum.
In the melodic rock world, yet more Scandis in STREETLIGHT produced the debut album of the year, fresh but drawing on the greats of the AOR genre.
Forward Look
Gig-wise, I’m looking forward to two festivals – Malmo Melodic and the first festival under the Firefest banner in a decade, and to Judas Priest’s long overdue tour with Saxon and Uriah Heep making for a night of British rock and metal glory.
Sir Brian May has been named the greatest guitarist of all time by readers of Total Guitar Magazine.
Joe Bonamassa enters “The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness”
MAY
Dolly Parton’s new album ‘Rockstar’ is announced for release in November. Guests include Slash, Rob Halford, Elton John, Paul McArtney, REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin and Pat Benatar.
Walter Trout enters “The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness”
JUNE
Watchet Festival ends after ten years – “Due to circumstances beyond our control, we are unfortunately not able to renew our lease on the land that we use at Parsonage Farm. Because of this we feel after much soul searching and debate that this is the right time to allow Watchet Festival to come to a natural end.”
Hot off the block, but sadly the last new release from the late Bernie Marsden. ‘Working Man’ marks a big return to form on a strong self penned album full of jangling guitars, strong hooks and a surprisingly broad mix of rock, blues and Americana, illuminated by a bright production.
10 generous bonus tracks include superb re-workings of some Whitesnake highlights.
Pete Feenstra chatted to Laurence Jones for his show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio. First broadcast 17 September 2023.
‘Bad Luck & The Blues’ is a riff driven, big toned and Robin Trower influenced album that sees Laurence Jones move into the hard rock market.
He started as a blues-rocker, achieved pop-rock success in The Netherlands and now rocks hard on the back of some relentless road work, with intense rockers like the wah-wah drenched ‘I’m Gone’, the dynamic ‘Out In The Distance’ and the explosive ‘You’re Not Alone’.
It may be unusual for a pop rock album to make my top 3, but the songs here are as well crafted, polished, catchy and sonically beguiling.
John almost under uses his own warm vocal style, best exemplified by ‘I Started Something’.
An array of guest vocalists includes the noir sophistication of Claudia Brucken, the pop sensibility of Nicki Leighton-Thomas, the durable spark of Petula Clarke (yes you heard that right), the husky John Moore and the urban grit of Slicko DiCaprio.
It all makes for a 60′s sounding album with updated contemporary production. The result is 10 tracks which much like the album title radiate optimism.
Comprising 31 tracks and nearly 4 hours of music, you may be forgiven for a knee jerk reaction along the lines of “Never mind the quality, feel the width”. But once you dip into this smorgasbord of roots rocking blues, Americana and beyond, you will discover that rare thing, a huge gathering of musician at the top of their game all working to make a charitable event the best of could be.
The album is an intricate lattice of deep toned guitar work, esoteric beats, drones, samples and consistently subtle textures, topped Pini’s aching tone and expressive baritone.
An unashamedly retro tinged Anglo- French band led by the baritone voiced songwriter Dick Grisdale, who contributes 5 of the 7 songs on an impressive self titled debut album.
They are an anthemic rock band who incorporates elements of Bowie, Simple Minds and David Gilmour style guitar figures.
Who would have thought that 10 years into his career LJ would become an archetypal power trio, with that rare ability to pack hard hitting riffs and a stream of catchy hooks in 4 minute songs.
Tonight he rocked hard, bounced off his audience and gave them back their energy in spades.
Drummer Ashe Sheehan was an explosive presence, with bassist Jack Alexander Timmis the perfect foil, leaving LJ to indulge in flamboyant shapes and killer licks.
LAZARUS HEIGHTS Birthday Jam, Bars SW France
A capacity birthday crowd turned out to celebrate drummer Jeff Gautier’s milestone bash.
Playing a handful of favourites, from their self titled debut album and new material for the nascent 2nd album, charismatic front man Dick Grisdale cut an imposing figure with a resonant vocal, and fluid guitar solos to back up his gothic image.
The band revels in an 80′s style wall of sound and had the capacity crowd singing along to their booming hooks, no mean achievement in the unforgiving world of self penned material.
The fiery Aussie blues rocker provided an object lesson in functional cool.
He plugged in, barely paused for breath and launched into of several shuffle boogie outings, punctuated by killer riffs, booming power chords and flinty dynamics which served to highlight his snappy choruses.
Tognoni doesn’t do subtle. He simply goes for the throat in a relentless blur of unfettered energy and physicality in true rock and roll style.
Breakthrough Acts 2023
ROSALIE CUNNINGHAM
With an effortless vocal range, original material ranging from folk to prog and psychedelia with electro edges and a fine band, it can surely be only a matter of time before Cunningham finds a significant niche audience.
It’s been over a year since her’ Two Piece Puzzle’ album, so 2024 might be the big year.
ASHLEY SHERLOCK
New Ruf Records singing Ashley Sherlock has already paid his dues round his native Manchester, but now he has the keys to Europe and the festival circuit.
His grainy vocal timbre has the ability to bring emotion to a single line and is matched by some killer guitar chops.
His debut album is called ‘Just A Name’, it’s a work in progress with bags of potential.
BISON HIP
Glasgow’s finest may be long in the tooth but they put their experience to the very best use in crafting catchy songs based on real life experiences.
They deliver great harmonies with top line musicianship on a long awaited album with a positive titular message; “Older Stronger Better.”
Reissues
ROUND AND ROUND: Progressive Sounds Of 1974
This 4-CD prog compilation is living proof that there was some great music in 1974 beyond the chart friendly Glam bands.
Look no further than Nektar’s ‘Fidgety Queen’ which crosses over from prog rock to Glam with a horn section, or the rhythmic layered groove of ‘ Living In The World Today’ by the Man spin off band The Neutrons.
Man are also represented by the West sounding ‘Scotch Corner’/ Exit’.
Significantly the album also finds room for Italian prog torch bearers PFM who collaborate with former King Crimson lyricist Pete Sinfield on the synth orchestration of ‘The World Became the World’.
There’s even room for the shrill synth beats of ‘Gravy Train’, alongside bankers such as Tull, Traffic, Trower, Caravan, Camel, Hawkwind etc, with mercifully no ELP or Yes in sight!
THE DREAM SYNDICATE Expanded Edition
You cant argue with 4 CD’s which include 10 hard-to-find rarities and 31 never released recordings, except to say that you have to be a die-hard fan to be into some very raw demos, rehearsals and ragged live tracks. Then again, if you start with the bonus tracks and work backwards, you can feel the band honing its craft.
At times they sound like the Velvet Underground without the drugs (ie. the Paisley underground).
There are smatterings of jangling guitars and angst filled vocals.
There’s even a 1982 live track called ‘Sure Things’ which they announce as: “San Francisco psychedelia, Quicksilver and Blue Cheer.” Enough said!
DAVE MASON Long Lost Friend
Presumably the album title (taken from ‘Split Coconut’) can be interpreted as an ironic reference to Dave Mason’s extended absence from the UK, as he rebuilt an FM Radio friendly career in the States with CBS.
By the time of 1980′s ‘Old Crest On A New Wave’ he was busy sharing a duet with Michael Jackson on ‘Save Me’.
This album is all about the journey from 1973 to that point.
It includes his two chord groove ‘Feeling Alright’ and ‘Misty Morning’ which is proto Steve Miller, while his interpretative qualities come to the fore on Jim Krueger’s ‘We Just Disagree’ and the very commercial Conrad/ Williams penned ‘So High (Rock Me Baby and Roll Me Away)’ which over eggs the cake.
However, compared to the Punk infested UK at the time, Mason provided a satisfying haven for old school music lovers.
Following on from her emotional catharsis after the breakdown of her relationship – expressed in all its harrowing detail on the exceptional ‘Afterlight’ album – Thea Gilmore, now without doubt the finest British singer / songwriter of her generation, has delivered her best album ever.
Moving forward, but with bitter hindsight in the rear-view mirror (‘That’s Love Motherf*cker’), Thea has crafted an album for the ages that anyone with even half a heart can enjoy – but for those who have experienced relationship breakdown, a psychological comfort blanket delivered in words and music that’s simply breathtaking.
This is the sound of a great band getting even better – re-inventing themselves, yet instantly recognisable.
The album is a heavy-hearted affair from beginning to end and yet uncannily life-affirming – due, in no small part, to the brilliance of the musicianship but, primarily, to the inherent quality of the music itself.
Despondency never sounded this good – ever, and yet I would defy any metal / progressive rock fan to finish listening to it with anything other than a smile on their face and a knowing nod to the brilliance within.
RPWL have always been in the vanguard of tackling contentious issues – be that organised religion, the mis-use of science, humanity (or the lack of it) and even space travel – and ‘Crime Scene’ continues this thread, focusing on the links between crime, psychology and punishment.
It’s a concept that has the potential to be excessively morbid but is handled with much dexterity and empathy – in classic RPWL fashion.
Despite these difficult and somewhat controversial topics, one is left with the feeling that RPWL, with their extraordinary musicianship and laser-like insightful lyrics, have produced yet another masterpiece.
Bruce Soord, together with his day-job band The Pineapple Thief, are on an unstoppable upward trajectory at the moment – the ‘Thief’s last two albums were a triumph and this is, without doubt, the finest collection of songs yet that the PT’s leading light has put together.
Soord has reached for the acoustic guitar on most tracks – backed with delicate and sympathetic string arrangements – and has produced an outstanding, melancholic album – best listened to on headphones in a darkened room.
And, as one of the ‘go-to’ men for artists needing a remaster, it goes without saying that the recording quality is phenomenal – so much so that I recommend everyone use it as a test-disc for new hi-fi kit!
5. RIVERSIDE I.D. Entity
Progressive rock of the highest order from one of the finest exponents of the genre.
I.D. Entity is the second foray into the studio since the tragic death of guitarist Piotr Grudzinski following the superb ‘Wasteland’ from 2018.
They’ve done his legacy proud again here with a more attack-minded clutch of songs – but which are always kept under control and always calmed by dreamy quiet interludes in precisely the right places.
Add the song-writing skills and euphoric vocals of Mariusz Duda and it’s nothing short of genius.
Reissue
RICHARD WRIGHT Wet Dream
First solo outing originally released in 1978 from Pink Floyd keyboard maestro Rick Wright – here given the full Steven Wilson remaster / remix.
The album was great when it first came out – the ‘Floyd influence being undeniable but not all-consuming – and with a coterie of fine musicians (as you’d expect) including Snowy White, Mel Collins and Robin Trower’s drummer Reg Isidore.
But Wilson has extracted even more from the original (as he always does) making it sound like it was recorded yesterday – yet with that cosy familiarity of renewing an acquaintance with an old friend.
Going toe to toe with genre giants like Motley Crue and Kiss might have seemed inadvisable, but arguably, The Runaways, realising only too well, were saying good bye to traditional views of femininity.
Britband Foghat clocked up a considerable number of tour miles after relocating to the USA in 1970, road testing their material, looking to kickstart their career. It worked a treat.
Seven years since this band’s last album. Too long, but here it is, packed full of electric blues and hard rock nods from Zep to Cream; and also laced with funky, soulful, melodic, commercial passages that might be sometime Thunder fodder. This excellent album deserves to build some momentum and push Albany Down towards enduring, wide-spread success.
After 25 albums, Heep are on something of a roll! Chaos and Colour is the latest in a great run of albums. This has the energy of a band half their age, bringing trade mark heavy keyboards/guitar, prog flourishes and widescreen vocals. The songcraft remains uplifting and the scope and depth of the material is utterly convincing. For instance, just check out ‘One Nation, One Sun’.
Richie Faulkner’s supergroup project pulls off a corker. Old school metal wrapped in nu-skool production. Great songs that land somewhere between Priest and grunge, with changes of pace, tone and intensity. The playing is excellent, as you would expect from this crowd and even Ronnie Romero sounds pretty good!
Just a small show on the band’s debut European tour, but this was a stunner. The band played with confidence, professionalism and an unshakeable enjoyment in the sheer exuberance of their performance. Blues, rock, soul, country, hints of jazz. We’ve had Total Football, heck we’ve had Total War. This was Total Music. A privilege to have been there.
Great band, but this is all about KWS himself. I love this guy every time I seen him play. A show stuffed with swaggering blues rock, unhurried-build-to-torrid-explosion solos and all the showboating and grandstanding that such remarkable talent demands. Two hours of top quality entertainment and as usual, nothing was left behind.
This was a celebratory gig back in February as TDC’s album hit number 3 in the charts. A full blooded show of punchy, tight, hard hitting riffs undercut here and there with keyboard melodies. And then Shane Greenhall out front, absolutely pumped, smashing out quality vocals and barely able to contain his excitement. A great atmosphere and a top night.
Creating a buzz right now, there is something a little different about this band. The sound is commercial hard rock, with blues undertones, but there’s a creeping spirituality and hippiness that permeates at a softer level. Latest album ‘Now or Nowhere’ is a real step up in songwriting and production. Live, headlining at Islington back in the Summer, they were superb entertainment.
Seen supporting The Damn Truth in July, this Indiana trio is led by guitarist/vocalist Chris Tapp and long-time associate and drummer Brian Mullins. I was immediately struck by the assured sound of the band, peeling off engaging heavy blues and rolling, lowdown hard rock – thick and rich as black treacle. Definitely going places.
Excellent debut in 2022 with ‘Chaos is Calling’, Kira Mac have steadily built their reputation this year with a string of dates and latest single ‘Scorned’. Powerful, catchy, raw classic rock with stacked backing vocals, melodic twists and an arresting image. Another tour is already on the stocks for 2024.
Latest in the run of UFO high-end re-issues. What Andy Pearce has done with this superb remaster is to strip away the hint of wool and mud in the production of the 1976 original to unearth the energy, power and drama at the heart of this landmark album. This is no feather-duster polish up. This is a full-on deep clean.
A qualified endorsement because of the cost of the physical packages, but if ever a live album needed revisiting, this is the one. The remaster of the original album seems fine, but the remixed ‘bonus’ set on CD discs 3 and 4 hits the mark and brings everything that the original album lacked: power, clarity, RJD in full pomp and even a hint of audience presence (!)
TEN YEARS AFTER – A Space In Time (50th Anniversary Edition)
Apart from the best known material, TYA are a band that I’ve missed out on for some reason. This album’s re-issue came along at the right time and I have enjoyed sinking in to the glorious jams and melodic blues here, given a sparkle by Chris Kimsey’s remixes. Better dig out their back catalogue then…
This year’s Cambridge Rock Festival has been cancelled – “It is with deepest regret that the Cambridge Rock Festival Committee need to let you know that this year’s festival cannot go ahead as planned. Although this would have been our third time at Horseheath Lodge, the Licence now required (not the same as previously), has in practise taken the decision out of our control for this year. As you can imagine we are devastated to have to break this news to you.”
Extreme’s latest album ‘Six’ charted at number 22 in the UK album chats, number 67 on the Billboard 200 and number 8 in the German album charts.
John Wetton’s solo career is celebrated in a new eight-disc box set, ‘An Extraordinary Life’, which will be released through Spirit Of Unicorn Records on November 24. The box set features remastered versions all six of Wetton’s solo albums that he released between 1980-2011, plus two discs featuring a selection rare, live and unreleased material.
Guitarist Bernie Marsden dies, co-founder of Whitesnake, his own band Alaska and a prolific solo artist from 2000 onwards.
AC/DC have revealed in recent rehearsals for their upcoming appearance at the Power Trip festival that Matt Laug (Alice Cooper, Slash’s Snakepit) is on drums in place of Phil Rudd and bassist Cliff Williams is coming put of retirement especially for this show.
Aerosmith have rescheduled their September US tour dates to Jan/Feb next year after Steven Tyler was ordered to rest on medical grounds due to vocal cord damage.
Steve Hackett enters “The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness”
Even without the pre ’82 45s, there’s some fantastic music here, 2 live sets and some bonuses. Imagine if Hendrix played punk, and you’ll understand why he gave Gillan such an edge.
KEITH EMERSON Variations (20-CD)
Pretty much everything (bar 1 album or 2) of Keith’s solo work, and a disc of rarities, Keith was a genius and here’s the proof.
NIKK GUNNS
Albums
THE ROLLING STONES Hackney Diamonds
I may be biased but this late career near masterpiece easily stands amongst the band’s best since 1972.
DIRTY HONEY Can’t Find The Brakes
Having been a fan of this band since I first saw then a few years ago in the US, this new album and recent gigs by the band have finally seen them make a bit of a breakthrough in the UK.
Part of the British Summer Time gigs, this superb set more then made up for the previous years slightly iffy offering.
BLACKBERRY SMOKE The Roundhouse, Camden
The band never fail to leave the crowd with a smile on their faces and this was no different. Looking forward to the band’s return to these shores in 2024.
EUROPE London Palladium
With the band celebrating 40 years, they have never sounded better and I have been quoted as saying that this one gig could be my favourite of this millennium (so far…)
Breakthrough Acts 2023
CHRIS SHIFLETT (Foo Fighters)
Already a well know band member in the UK, he has now picked up a fair bit of airplay as a solo artist and the forthcoming UK gigs look to be very good.
MCLXXX takes inspiration from horror and sci-fi films with cleverly crafted, story-telling lyrics that will entice you in. The album has 10 tracks all of which are monstrously good! What an album, it is hard to believe that it is a debut, but it is, I am sold! King Kraken, a legend is born.
So it’s been seven long years wondering if The Answer would ever come back, what an album, it’s been well worth the wait! All the heavy riffs are as you’d expect, so welcome back The Answer, we have missed you!
This (2nd) album is truly no follow on, this is an album that grabs you from the off and makes you listen up, no fillers on here, every track delivers with bigger hooks, heavier sound, fast pace and clever story telling lyrics that are delivered completely on point, with the bonus of complimentary harmonies from other members of the band, this album is packed full of talent – don’t take my word for it, give it a listen!
Gypsy Pistoleros are unique, completely unique, never have I heard such a blend of styles merge so successfully that you’d struggle to label it (don’t bother trying) but the album is absolute killer, high energy, high octane, pedal to the metal all the way, you’re in for one hell of a ride and an absolute blast.
King Voodoo step up and bring the place alive with sublime, rock perfection delivered brilliantly to an enraptured crowd you can see loads of people engage.
An absolute ball of energy, bringing a very explosive, great fun set delighting the crowd, who frankly were eating out of their hands 2 songs in, a highlight of the weekend!
VERA CRUZ
This band really know how to engage an audience, a 3 piece with a heart and oh my god, stand out vocals that make the hairs on the back of your neck go up. Get to see them, they are amazing!
The Rolling Stones debuted at number one in the UK albums with their latest album ‘Hackney Diamonds’. It is also the third highest selling album of the year to date in the UK. Not to be outdone, The Beatles final single ‘Now And Then’ is the UK’s fastest selling single of 2023, plus the biggest selling vinyl single since 2000.
Dolly Parton’s ‘Rockstar’ album debuted at number 3 on the Billboard charts selling 128,000 album-equivalent units. The album debuted at number 5 in the UK album charts.
A sequel to ‘This Is Spinal Tap’ starts filming in February and will once again be directed by Rob Reiner, with the original cast set to return and cameos from Elton John and Paul McCartney.
‘Queen Rock Montreal’ will be released in over 450 IMAX locations globally for four days beginning January 18. The concert was originally recorded back in 1981.
Photo: Dave Wilson
KISS may have stopped touring, however, on their final show at New York’s Madison Square Gardens they unveiled KISS avatars. Created by the same company as the Abba Voyage, the band plan for these to be used in shows worldwide.
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.
Album review: BAD TOUCH – Bittersweet Satisfaction
Marshall Records [Release date 08.12.23]
Album number six from Bad Touch. An important one for them as they are just hovering on that cusp of jumping up a level like say Those Damn Crows and Mason Hill, as they have certainly put in the graft, both in the studio and on stage. They’d be a perfect support for the likes of Thunder, the Answer and the Black Crowes.
Two important things that help make this album that bit special. First up, the added female backing vocals add a real swing to the choruses, none more so than the single ‘Nothing Wrong With That’. Secondly, whoever is on the Hammond take a bow as the playing on ‘Spend My Days’ and the title track are superb. Adds a real depth and warmth to the whole album.
Vocalist Stevie Westwood sounds on great form – you can almost hear the smiles in some of the songs. Guitarists Daniel Seekings and Rob Glendinning add the riffs when required and unleash tasty solos when required (pick of them has to be on ‘Taste This’). Finally, the rhythm section of drummer George Drewry and bassist Michael Bailey provide a sold backbeat.
All this and a mobiles-in-the-air ballad in the shape of ‘Come Back Again’. Oh, and the album’s closer ‘Dizzy for You’ would sound great on mainstream radio. A pop rock banger if ever there was one.
Ten songs, just under 34 minutes with not a wasted minute. An album chock full of good time rock n roll tunes that just don’t let go.
This is the album Bad Touch have been striving for since they started, all killer, no filler. Well done lads. ****1/2
Review by Jason Ritchie
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
Classy and classic symphonic metal from Everdawn. Who could ask for more?
This US band made a few waves with their debut, (when they were known as Midnight Eternal), only to have internal disputes lead to the replacement of the band’s vocalist.
It’s an ill wind. Replacement, Russian mezzo soprano, Alina Gavrilenko, has more than filled the gap. Judging by Venera, their second album, she’s added depth and breadth to the band’s symphonic Metal sound.
She has an effortless vocal style, crossing from octave to octave, sometimes double tracked, floating above a continually moving symphonic jigsaw, where all the pieces – vocals, guitars, keys, rhythms – all fit perfectly, then move on.
It’s a hugely ambitious album, continually looking to the stars for celestial inspiration, ‘Venera’ (Venus), ‘Cassiopeia’, ‘Cosmic Star’, ‘Orion’s Belt’. Or examining earthbound dilemmas: life, death and redemption, ‘Samsara’, or examining conscience and morality: ‘Justify The Means’.
Musically, it’s expansive, it blurs the line between rock and classical, utilising the notion of music being a substitute for images…an emotional power, lyrical, technical, dark in places, light in others.
You get the sense that every song is just one step closer to the album’s climactical moment, the 13 minute penultimate track ‘Truer Words Never Spoken’, which eventually erupts into a huge piece of intensely delivered music, like a symphonic orchestra trapped in a small studio by a gifted producer/arranger.
Talking of which, having Tommy Hansen and Eric Rachel involved in the engineering, mixing and mastering adds clarity and density to the band’s music.
Too often, Symphonic Metal albums have too much content and not enough subject. No problem with Venera though, and you just have to admire Everdawn’s ambition. ***1/2
Review by Brian McGowan.
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
Since early 2020 Josh has been entertaining us with exclusive monthly live sessions,
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.
On Track…The Beat, General Public & Fine Young Cannibals by Steve Parry Sonicbond Publishing [Publication date 30.06.23]
A fascinating read into how the Beat led to the creation of General Public (who many may ask and they once supported Queen!) and the Fine Young Cannibals, who enjoyed plenty of chart success between the mid-80s and 1992 when they split. Their second album, ‘The Raw and the Cooked’, topped five national album charts including the UK, the US and Australia.
It covers every song from the various combinations and off shoots of these three bands, including a novelty single with Lenny Henry and B-sides. The prose is easy to read and the author has a quick wit which stops the book being stale, which a couple of the books in this series unfortunately are.
The chapters on General Public certainly have the reader intrigued to hear more and the Beat get a thorough overview, as Ranking Roger’s memoir, completed before his passing in 2019, is the ‘go to’ book for those after the Beat’s history from an insider’s viewpoint.
On Track…Depeche Mode by Brian J. Robb Sonicbond Publishing [Publication date 30.06.23]
Author of this tome Brian J Robb is an experienced writer with books published on Wes Craven, Doctor Who, Laurel and Hardy and many more. It goes without saying he has an easy to read writing style, never too ‘fanboy’, yet the reader never forgets the author’s love of Depeche Mode and their music.
The author sticks to the brief covering every studio album and not getting sidetracked down the musical rabbit hole that is compilations and live releases.
Right up to date as it covers Depeche Mode’s 2023 album ‘Momento Mori’, the band’s first since the death of Andy Fletcher.
Job done as reading this book had me delving back into the musical world of Depeche Mode, including enjoying ‘Songs of Faith and Devotion’, which seemed to pass me by upon its original release back in 1993.
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.
Phil Lynott was a larger than life character who wore his heart on his sleeve and became one of rocks most iconic frontmen. Part rockstar, part poet, his songs and lyrics have touch many throughout his career. This show is … Continue reading →
Cherry Red [Release Date: 19.01.24] Since its 1984 debut, The Long Ryders’ album, Native Sons has been regularly lauded by the music press. The album’s fusion of Garage, Folk and Country Rock has commonly drawn praise from high profile publications … Continue reading →
Frontiers Music [Release date: 12.01.24] For The Grandmaster’s second album, mainman, guitarist and Edguy co-founder, Jens Ludwig has recruited ex Fate vocalist, Peer Johansson. Surprisingly, given the accessibility of the material they created in previous employment, much of Black Sun … Continue reading →
BGO Records www.bgo-records.com [Release date 06.10.23] The two albums released by Tempest in 1973/4 marked a musical departure for jazz rock drummer Jon Hiseman who – at the time – was best known for his work with Colosseum and to … Continue reading →
BGO Records www.bgo-records.com [Release date 06.10.23] The reconfigured Atomic Rooster have been a staple of many prog and classic rock festivals since 2016 when they received Vincent Crane widow’s blessing. Carrying the band’s flame are sometime members vocalist Pete French … Continue reading →
Provogue Records [Release date 15.12.23] Walter Trout’ New Year single called “Bleed” featuring British blues harp player Will Wilde, is an up tempo boogie shuffle with an uplifting message. It’s an exhilarating taster of what we might expect from the … Continue reading →
BGO Records www.bgo-records.com [Release date 13.10.23] I have to say that I’ve only known Paladin from digging through crates of vinyl at record fairs and noting the Roger Dean artwork. It all looked a bit prog. Now the band’s only … Continue reading →
Bandcamp [Release date 12.01.24] ‘This Is What I Want To Say’ sees Martyn Joseph in stripped back acoustic mode, aided by a few guest musicians, most notably the mournful cello playing of Liz Hanks. ‘Albert’s Place’ is a beautiful song, … Continue reading →
Art Of Anarchy release their third studio album, ‘Let There Be Anarchy’, on February 16 via Pavement Music. Jon Votta (guitar),Vince Votta (drums) and guitarist Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal are joined by vocalist Jeff Scott Soto and bassist Tony Dickinson. The Black Keys new album ‘Ohio Players’ is due … Continue reading →
Capitol Records [Release date 20.10.23] Nicholas Durocher, known professionally as Talk, is a Canadian singer-songwriter and musician from Ottawa, who recently released his debut album, ‘Lord of the Flies & Birds & Bees’, which charted at number 33 in his native … Continue reading →
Website [Release date 26.01.24] The Survival Code are an independent London based rock duo with a passion for RIFFS, SOARING MELODIES, BANGIN’ DRUMS and some of the most energetic live shows you’ll ever see. Best known for their song “So … Continue reading →
Heavy Progressive Records [Release date 01.02.24] You can’t help thinking – listening to this seventh solo album from acoustic guitarist Jeff Aug – “when is he going to break into ‘Classical Gas’?” Just like that classic acoustic piece, ‘Kiss Of … Continue reading →
Compiled by Jason Ritchie Please check with venue and/or relevant website(s) to confirm availability. Updated 16/12/2024 UK & Ireland Tour Dates and Gig Listing (2024) To search quickly within this page (“Find In Page”): Press Ctrl+F (on Windows PC, Chromebook, … Continue reading →
The Players Club [Release date: 19.01.24] Robby Krieger and The Soul Savages live up to their name by occupying a groove filled musical arc that conjoins a soulful feel with jazz, funk, fusion and psyche jam band influences. You could … Continue reading →
There’s always been a sense that, despite their success, Ocean Colour Scene have been one of the most under rated bands to emerge during those heady, somewhat hedonistic days of the Britpop era. Certainly, whilst the constant inclusion of one … Continue reading →
Tonight, we had something a bit different, Geddy Lee in conversation to promote his autobiography, ‘My Effin’ Life’, which has just been released. With Rush in hiatus following the sad passing of Neil Peart, for fans of the band this … Continue reading →
Pride & Joy Music [Release date 19.01.23] Album number five from Autumn’s Dream, and like the band they morphed from, Last Autumn’s Dream, they are regular as clockwork releasing a new album at the start of each year. Mikael Erlandsson … Continue reading →
Halestorm have maintained a continuous but steady upward trend in popularity on the UK. Nearly 14 years after I first saw them open up for Theory of a Deadman and Heaven’s Basement at the Electric Ballroom, came a career highlight, … Continue reading →
BGO www.bgo-records.com [Release date 10.11.23] My first introduction to Mae McKenna was her 1991 album ‘Mirage And Reality’. Bob Harris on his overnight BBC Radio 1 show was a big fan and played the album regularly. I spotted it in … Continue reading →
Rock Candy Records [Release date : 27.10.23] Two more Night Ranger reissues from the house of remasters. The band’s secret weapons are evident from the off on Dawn Patrol (1982), the debut album. In Kelly Keaggy and Jack Blades they … Continue reading →
OUR MAN IN THE FIELD Gold On The Horizon In The Field Recordings [Release date 03.11.23] Our Man In the Field is not a band per se as it’s the pseudonym of British singer/songwriter Alex Ellis. He released his debut … Continue reading →
Yet another busy gigging year in FM’s ever hard working calendar ended in the unlikely surroundings of Tunbridge Wells, the genteel Kent town famous for its spa and the mythical disgusted letter-writing retired colonel. Its commutable from both the South … Continue reading →
2023 marked the 20th anniversary of Get Ready to ROCK! This may not have been a vintage year for album releases but many artists consolidated their position with touring and the odd reissue. In spite of the economic crisis it … Continue reading →
Marshall Records [Release date 08.12.23] Album number six from Bad Touch. An important one for them as they are just hovering on that cusp of jumping up a level like say Those Damn Crows and Mason Hill, as they have … Continue reading →
Frontiers [Release date 08.12.23] Classy and classic symphonic metal from Everdawn. Who could ask for more? This US band made a few waves with their debut, (when they were known as Midnight Eternal), only to have internal disputes lead to … Continue reading →
On Track…The Beat, General Public & Fine Young Cannibals by Steve Parry Sonicbond Publishing [Publication date 30.06.23] A fascinating read into how the Beat led to the creation of General Public (who many may ask and they once supported Queen!) … Continue reading →
If you can't find what you're looking for - or wish to refine your search to include only references to the key search term - try putting inverted commas around the search term e.g. "Steve Lukather" or "Black Star Riders"
For example if you enter Black Star Riders the results will include all instances of "Black" "Star" and "Riders". The search will also be slower.
***** Out of this world
**** Pretty damn fine
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan of the artist or genre
** Instant bargain bin fodder
* Ugly, just ugly
