Album review: MIKE CAMPESE – Reset

MIKE CAMPESE - Reset

www.mikecampese.com [Release date 11.11.22]

I’m sorry but Mike Campese exhibits all the worst aspects of “guitar virtuoso”.  Guitarists may well acknowledge his technical mastery (and he has featured in several big guitar mags) but for the average listener this is unlikely to bombast them into submission.  They will have turned off after the first couple of tracks and uttered the immortal words “what’s on Netflix”?

’Reset’ is Campese’s 11th solo album and his neo-classical style is showcased on the opener ‘Fire’ and elsewhere.  But, overall, this sub-Yngwie offering fails to ignite.  Partly this is because of the dense home production and the fact that there are essentially only two musicians.  A more balanced and generous helping of audible bass and keyboards may have been a way to go.

On ‘Bee Eater’ he indulges in yet more guitar wankery where tune and melody is sacrificed for over-indulgence.  Ad infinitum.  And the six vocal tracks cannot rescue the malaise.  Lyrically sparse, merely a vehicle for more widdle.

When Campese slows things down – as on the title track and ‘Waisted Time’ (with the unwitting words: “I have waisted all my time”) – it reveals a poor basic tone and an even less flattering voice.

Campese may be best as a teacher or in a band context (he worked with the respected Trans-Siberian Orchestra in 2004).  The relentless shred will have most shrieking for their next binge-watch, and breathing a sigh of relief through clenched teeth. **

Review by David Randall


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: CERI JUSTICE – Walk In Shadow

CERI JUSTICE - Walk In Shadow

www.cerijustice.rocks [Release date 15.04.22]

Here at GRTR! it doesn’t really matter that we are reviewing an album nearly 12 months old.  If it comes to our attention belatedly and is meritorious, we do it.  It was Pete Feenstra playing a track in his weekly Rock & Blues Show (Get Ready to ROCK! Radio) that made me revisit this singer songwriter’s sophomore release.

The song Pete played – ‘Shipwrecked’ – was actually from her 2019 debut and  is a standout with a vocal delivery not dissimilar to a less warbly Stevie Nicks and punctuated by mournful strings.

‘Walk In Shadow’ is a solid album and hopefully moves Midlands-based Ceri nearer to where she wants to be. It’s a combination of upbeat, catchy tunes (like opener ‘Wanted’) and the darker (like the standout title track). The instrumentation is mainly jaunty and the violin omnipresent.  All credit to Paul Johnston who has provided most of the instrumentation.

Basically Ceri can rock when necessary and calm down when appropriate.  But whilst the whole is very melodic and very appealing there are a few average tracks such as ‘You Did What You Did’ and the somewhat throwaway ‘Mess You Up’. To be honest, it’s all very seventies.

I wonder if Ceri is not quite sure of which audience she wishes to capture.  A cover of ‘Jolene’ takes her down a country route along with ‘Love Let Me Down’ and to a lesser extent ‘Got This Feeling’.

Another cover ‘Do Anything You Wanna Do’ boosts Ceri’s soft rock credentials but the real “killer” is ‘Walk In Shadow’.  This stretches to epic proportions (nearly eight minutes) and if nothing else shows Ceri’s versatility.  The vocal here reminds of Jan Johnston, one time a member of the very fine early 1990s band JJ.  The next album will hopefully consolidate the strengths but for the meantime definitely a meritorious album.  ***1/2

Review by David Randall


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: KATATONIA – Sky Void Of Stars

KATATONIA - Sky Void Of Stars

Napalm Records [Release date: 20.01.23]

Ever since Swedish behemoths Katatonia de-coupled themselves from the doom-metal train to oblivion with the ‘Night Is The New Day’ album way back in 2009, they have been the flag-bearers of a genre best described as prog/metal melancholia – gathering a deserved reputation, album upon album, amongst both metal-heads and progressive rock devotees, as one of the finest bands on the planet.

‘Sky Void Of Stars’ is their fifth studio album since NITND and I have to admit that my shoulders slumped and I thought “WTF” as opening track ‘Austerity’ roared out of the speakers and kicked my arse into next week – my God, they’ve deserted their millions of new-found acolytes and reverted to type with thundering drums and thrash guitar…Noooooo…

But wait, despite the headlong charge of the opening bars, this is, thankfully, the Katatonia we’ve been captivated by for over a decade and testament to a band capable of change without betraying their core values.

‘Sky Void Of Stars’ is heavier generally than more recent outings but it’s almost as if the music and its subject matter demand this.

The desolate and mournful tropes are still present and correct but are given more significance due to the surrounding power.

This is best illustrated on ‘Colossal Shade’ whose powerful riffing is soothed by Jonas Renkse’s always-in-control vocal and ‘Author’ where the immense power is juxtaposed with an almost placid verse.

The melancholic ‘Opaline’ has an anthemic chorus – heavy, but never losing sight of the melody, as is the case with ‘Birds’, ‘Impermanence’ and ‘No Beacon To Illuminate Our Fall’ – the latter being a real standout and an exempli gratia of the whole album’s ethos.

Another standout is ‘Drab Moon’, an intensely sorrowful track sounding very similar to tracks on ‘The Fall Of Hearts’ – one of Katatonia’s finest albums.

In summary, this is the sound of a great band getting even better – re-inventing themselves yet instantly recognizable.

Renkse’s vocals have never sounded better and Anders Nystrom’s guitaring is just sensational -  backed up with equally brilliant contributions from Roger Ojersson (guitar), Niklas Sandin (bass) and the bowel-loosening drumming of Daniel Moilanen.

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.

Exceptional.  *****

Review by Alan Jones

The Best of 2023

 


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: RONNIE ROMERO – Raised On Heavy Radio

Frontiers Records [Release date: 27.01.23]

Second “Raised On…” album from Ronnie (Rainbow, Lords Of Black, The Ferry Men) Romero.

Recording cover versions of your favourite songs must be a temptation that’s impossible to resist. Many singers/bands have done it. Few have done it successfully.

Romero’s first bite, Raised on Radio (2020), made an obvious reference to Journey’s 1986 album, the one that saw Steve Perry attempting to write a new musical narrative for the band. That aside, what made that bunch of covers interesting was the sound of a died in the wool heavy metal vocalist covering AOR giants, Foreigner, Survivor, Bad Company and so on.

Choosing lesser known album tracks was they key. A new spin on songs that aren’t ingrained in the public consciousness can work, and in most cases it did.

“Heavy Radio” is a different beast. A metal singer singing metal songs. Deep Purple, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Rainbow, Helloween, Accept and so on… all the fairly predictable suspects.

And if you can’t improve on the originals, what’s the point? But maybe, like Dylan, all Romero’s beliefs come out of those “old songs”.

This bunch of musicians, Chris Caffery, Roland Grapow, Nozumo Wakai, Gus G and others truly nail it down. A studio full of carefully picked musicians whose skill is unquestionable, but whose feel for the music is even more important.

And so you think… on second thoughts, perhaps there is no point in comparisons. ‘The Battle Rages On’, ‘Hallowed Be Thy Name’ and ‘No More Tears’ might be emblematic of a genre, but what you can hear, very clearly, is Romero and friends having a truly great time, and it’s infectious.

Say no more. ***

Review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: JARROD DICKENSON – Big Talk

Jarrod Dickenson

 Website [Release date 03.02.23]

After a major label deal-gone-bad and Covid complications left him with a life-long medical condition, Jarrod Dickenson comes out fighting with ‘Big Talk’, an album full of classy melodies and lyrics.

The album features Jano Rix (The Wood Brothers) on drums and keys, Ted Pecchio (Doyle Bramhall II, Tedeschi Trucks Band) on bass, JP Ruggieri on guitars and Claire Dickenson on backing vocals.

Opening with ‘Buckle Under Pressure’ the album is off to a flying start, with the song’s big, bold melody. The spirit of Tom Petty runs strong through the melody and indeed sentiment of the lyrics.

‘Home Again’ is a jaunty number with guest appearances from Oliver Wood and Jano Rix. The Hammond, piano, guitar picking and drums combine for a superlative musical mix. Add on top the guest vocalists and you have an album highlight (one of many it has to be said).

Loving the brassy ‘Prefer To Love’, that has sweet and soulful backing vocals, with Jarrod’s vocals taking centre stage. He has a rich vocal tone, not unlike Shawn Mullins say. ‘With Any Luck’ kicks up a little bit of southern rock dust. Shades of Blackberry Smoke mixed with that guitar sound which is another reason to love this album.

‘Goodnight’ closes the album with a plaintive vocal from Jarrod backed by strings and gentle bass & acoustic guitar. A tale of a saying goodbye to a loved one and the listener will be wiping away a tear or two by the song’s end.

Jarrod Dickenson has used these past couple of years to craft a wonderfully warm sounding and enjoyable album. Deserves to be a success based on the songs ‘Home Again’ and ‘Prefer To Love’. Not a filler to be heard either. ****1/2

Review by Jason Ritchie


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review : CROWNE – Operation Phoenix

Frontiers [elease date: 27.01.23]

Second album from Crowne, a high end assembly made up of members of H.E.A.T., Art Nation, Europe, The Poodles and Dynazty. Respectively, Jona Tee, Alexander Strandell, John Leven, Christial Lundqvist and Love Magnusson.

The debut didn’t quite live up to its billing, but this one does.

This is grab you by the lapels, get right in your face melodic rock. Macho, slick, streamlined, not much room for nuance, although there is a stab at sophistication here and there. Almost always involving Magnusson’s spectacular axework.

His tightly woven fretwork combines satisfyingly with Strandell’s emphatic, mannered vocals on the title track and especially on ‘Northern Lights’, giving both tracks the immediacy and impact we expect from today’s Melodic Rock.

It’s unclear just what the lyrical aim is of ‘In The Name Of The Fallen’, and you worry that the most unpolitical of genres is getting politicised. But it’s clear that the fist in the air triumphalism of ‘Champions’ could not be mistaken for anything other than stadium rock at its most vital.

Tee’s sturdy keyboard provides the melodic spine on several songs on the album, most notably on the pacy ‘Ready To Run’ and ‘Juliette’, adding a symphonic element to already weighty, bombastic arrangements.

All that said though, it doesn’t get any more powerful than the ‘The Last Of Us’. Magnusson and Leven share the heavy lifting, locking guitar and bass together in the creation of a huge piece of intensely delivered music. It’s a suitably apposite track to finish on, one that best represents a rapidly evolving rock band, only two albums in. ****

Review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: DOCKER’S GUILD – The Mystic Technocracy Season 2: The Age Of Entropy

Website

Docker’s Guild is a massive progressive metal space opera which will unfold through five “seasons” and four “books” for a total of nine albums. It is masterminded by producer,
songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Douglas R. Docker. Joining him on this album is an impressive guest list of musicians including including Amanda Somerville, Anneke Van Giersbergen, Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake), Sascha Paeth, Nita Strauss (ex-Alice Cooper) and Anna Portalupi (Hardline).

As part of the bigger concept envisaged by Douglas R. Docker, this album also marks the birth of the “Black Swan Universe” which links other metal operas, such as The Chronomaster Project and the Vivaldi Metal Project into a single world, making it the first metal opera crossover ever. Well if you are going to do a concept piece go fully at it, no room for timid ideas!

The concept of the album revolves around The Mystic Technocracy, where a silicon-based techno-organic alien race attempts to wipe out all life on Earth through organized religion, while a tormented scientist makes it his mission in life to save humanity. The good thing with this album is you either immerse yourself fully into the world of images, words and music created by Douglas R. Docker or you can listen to this as a stand-a-lone piece. A bit like you can with an author who writes a series of books based on the same main character.

Being a concept piece there is plenty to enjoy mood wise, be it the intro piece with a touch of Mozart, Joel Hoekstra giving it some guitar welly on ‘K475 W.A.M.’ or the instantly addictive chorus on ‘Die Today’, a melodic metal treat.

There are a couple of stand outs for this listener though. First up ‘Lucy’, which was released as one of the singles off the album. A heady mix of melodic rock ballad with a touch of metal in the guitars, with plenty of harmony vocals.

The other ‘wow’ moment is on the Yes cover ‘Machine Messiah’. Never an easy band to cover, especially on this ten minute epic. It fits the rest of the album perfectly and loving the sound on this one, reminiscent of Yes themselves and the Enid, another band who merged classical music successfully into progressive music as Docker’s Guild do.

Those who love a good concept piece full of epic and bombastic music similar to the likes of Ayreon and Avantasia will find much to enjoy on this album. Grandiose pieces like this tread a fine line between success & listener enjoyment to one of confused musical ideas & lack of consistency. Docker’s Guild falls firmly in the former category and I for one can not wait for the next instalment! ****

Review by Jason Ritchie


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Feature: The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness – CHANTEL McGREGOR (February 2023)

The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness - Chantel McGregor (February 2023)

Chantel’s down to earth Yorkshire lass delivery has endeared her to fans as much as her musicianship…

Chantel McGregor - Giants Of Rock 2018Photo: David Randall

Yorkshire singer/songwriter/guitarist Chantel McGregor first came to our attention in May 2010 when Pete Feenstra reviewed her debut London gig at the legendary 100 Club. Pete said: “… this was rock blues for the new age played by a musician born with an effortless virtuosity, peppered by flights of incendiary guitar and flanked by moments of poise, grace and fluidity.”

Chantel defied the usual grimacing rock guitar hero, greeting punters at the door, striding out barefoot on stage, and in a full blown summer dress.  No leathers or shades!!

Pete noted something special, if not quite fully formed.  Since that time we’ve followed Chantel (suitably distanced of course) and she’s matured into an artist of real substance.

In reviewing that 2010 gig, Pete stated “… while Chantel breaks the mould by crossing the divide from Gracie Fields to Steve Vai, through a combination of a broad Yorkshire accent, an occasional shake of her mane and a truckful of notes … her musical acumen is simply too impressive to play second fiddle to her bubbly personality.”

For a few years prior, Chantel had been building an audience on the blues circuit including blues festivals.  She told Jason Ritchie in August 2011, when she was the website’s Featured Artist, I never really made a conscious decision to play in a bluesy style, it’s just really the way my playing developed”.  When her debut album appeared that year she surprised punters by mixing up a number of styles from the catchy pop of the title track and ‘Fabulous’ to a couple of covers, honouring Fleetwood Mac and Robin Trower.

 Chantel McGregor - Like No Other

“..where Chantel can steal a march is by broadening her appeal to a non-blues based audience. Beer-bellied festival goers will love her of course but I have to say there is more to life than appealing to those old enough to be her Dad, or even grandad.” David Randall

Album review (Like No Other, 2011)


I’ve never really listened to just one style of music, so I guess my style has become a mixture of everything that I’ve ever listened to.
Chantel McGregor, August 2011


It could be argued that Chantel is a child of the social media generation, in her early years as a professional musician she was embracing Facebook and Twitter as a tool of promotion. She also had a young person’s approach to illegal downloads which at the time was particularly threatening to musicians.  She told Jason:

I think the internet has been wonderful. Yes there are issues with illegal downloading and free streaming sites, but for me, they are a tool to help spread the word. If someone finds out about my album, goes home and listens to it on Spotify, decide they like it, and buy it, then the free streaming programme has done it’s job.

YouTube has been a blessing to me, so many people from all over the world get in touch saying that they love the videos, it’s an advert for the live shows, not only attracting people to the gigs from from the UK, but people have travelled from America, Sweden, Ireland, Holland, Belgium, all because of YouTube!!!!! It’s really humbling!!!!

Since 2010 Chantel has been regularly featured in festivals such as the Great British Blues & Rock event (Skegness) and the Cambridge Rock Festival.  In August 2011 Keith Thompson commented: “It is easy to forget that Chantel has jammed with the likes of Joe Bonamassa as long ago as 2006 and now following his gig circuit of the same era. So let’s swiftly lose any convenient notion that Chantel is some kind of novelty act. She is right up there with the best and deserves our utmost respect.”

Chantel McGregor, photo by Noel BuckleyPhoto: Noel Buckley

This audience warmed to her small frame but big heart. The queue for her merchandise stall featuring a T-shirt with around 40 dates on it headed by ‘Oh My God it’s Chantel McGregor’ on the back showed what incredible progress this lady has made.  Move over Joanne Shaw Taylor!
Noel Buckley, January 2012


It wasn’t until 2015 that Chantel released her sophomore album ‘Lose Control’ and marked a further stage in her musical journey.

 Chantel McGregor - Lose Control

“..sets herself the task of breaking out of the blues mould that has sustained her so far, to incorporate familiar rock styles (metal, grunge and prog) into something that is uniquely her own.

She does so with a confident vocal range, stellar phrasing and pristine diction. Her guitar parts are an integral part of the arrangements and act like an extra voice to express those feelings beyond her lyrics.” Pete Feenstra

Album review (Lose Control, 2015)


Our first interview dates from 8 March 2013 when Pete chatted to Chantel about her influences and musical background.  (The video of this interview is available on our YouTube channel). (11:33)

Pete Feenstra chatted to Chantel for Get Ready to ROCK! Radio in  October 2014 playing tracks from her debut album ‘Like No Other’.

Three years later they chatted again about her music with tracks from the album ‘Lose Control’.  First broadcast on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio, 7 May 2017


From the album, the song ‘Walk On Land’ has become a mainstay of her stage act and was a highlight of her show at the Giants Of Rock (Minehead) in 2018 when we noted “a set that combined hard hitting blues rock with just the right amount of commercial allure.

We’ve followed her slow but steady progress over the years and, while you’re more likely to find out about the latest make-up techniques on her Twitter feed than news of a new album, she’s worked tirelessly to build her audience initially courting the blues festivals that attract a largely older male audience.”

And as Pete Whalley noted: “With her engaging and down to earth Yorkshire-bred banter she deserves to succeed more than most, and it was telling that 45 minutes after her set ended she was still selling and signing CDs.”

Chantel McGregor - Giants Of Rock 2018Photo: David Randall

A year later and Chantel’s constant gigging took her to Maidstone, Kent and the ‘Ramblin Man Fair‘.  Our man Dave Atkinson described ” a perfect scruff-of-the-neck Festival set, full of thick riffs, heavy blues and power ballads … lyrical themes of recklessness, retribution and justice contrasted starkly with her disarming inter-song narratives: “Bloomin’ ‘eck, this is swish in’t it?”, came the flat northern vowels of a humble and engaging performer, on surveying the festival site.

Safe to say Chantel McGregor made an awful lot of new friends here.”

Chantel McGregor - RAMBLIN' MAN FESTIVAL - Day 3 - Mote Park, Maidstone - 21 July 2019Photo: Andy Nathan

A diverse set combined with her gentle down-to-earth Yorkshire humour would not only have pleased confirmed followers but won a few new admirers, myself included.  Andy Nathan, October 2019


Nearly 10 years earlier Pete Feenstra had reviewed Chantel’s first London gig.  In 2019, he reviewed her first live album.

 Chantel McGregor - Bury'd Alive

“…she’s forged her own direction. Most of the material may be more than 4 years old, but the band and the material has grown organically.

‘Bury’d Alive’ answers any lingering questions about her musical direction. Both her more introspective moments and the contrasting barn burning solos emotionally project her beyond her lyrical ideas into the stratosphere.”
Pete Feenstra

Album review (Bury’d Alive, 2019)

This album was an early recorded outing for the new piece ‘April’ which like ‘Walk On Land’ has become a staple in her live set.

During Lockdown (2020/2021) Chantel exploited the popularity of video livestreams providing a regular show and this led to the release of two volumes of the ‘Shed Sessions’.  Stripped back originals and cover versions really showed the true depth of her talent .

 CHANTEL McGREGOR - Shed Sessions Volume One

“What both volumes reveal is a talented guitarist, yes, but a lovely voice too.  When I reviewed Chantel’s debut album, in 2011, I opined “There is fragility in her songwriting and in her vocal style, which is highly appealing – this may have something to do with her young age but it bodes well also for the future.”
David Randall

Album review (Shed Sessions, 2021)

A tireless live performer, the only frustration has to be the long gaps between studio albums.  Whilst other contemporaries may be more prolific in this respect, it could be argued that – with Chantel – it is always a case of quality over quantity.  We can’t wait!

Pete Feensta chatted to Chantel for Get Ready to ROCK! Radio to tie in with the February 2023 promotion.  She chatted about her music with album tracks including some from those artists who have influenced and/or inspired her.  First broadcast 29 January 2023.


Story coordination: David Randall
Contributors: Dave Atkinson, Noel Buckley, Pete Feenstra, Andy Nathan, Jason Ritchie, Keith Thompson. Pete Whalley

Artist website

Search Chantel@GRTR!

GRTR!@20

2023 Dates
04 Feb Manchester Academy 3 – co-headline with Elles Bailey
05 Feb Milton Keynes, The Stables – co-headline with Elles Bailey
09 Feb Pocklington Arts Centre Pocklington
10 Feb TIVOLI Buckley
17 Feb Yardbirds Rock Club Grimsby
23 Feb The Crescent Community Venue York
05 Mar 1865 Southampton
17 Mar Leeds Brudenell, co-headline with Elles Bailey
26 Mar Le Blues Autour Du Zinc Beauvais, France
29 Mar The Half Moon London
04 May KK’s Steel Mill Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
05 May The Apex Bury St. Edmunds
06 May Bosworth Blues Festival, Market Bosworth
13 May Rotherham Chantry Brewery
17 May SOLD OUT – Barnoldswick Music & Arts Centre Barnoldswick
18 May Nottingham, Rescue Rooms, Co-headline with Elles Bailey
26 May Bannerman’s Edinburgh
28 May Drummonds Aberdeen
02 Jun Worthing, Factory Live (postponed from 8.12.22)
17 Jun Silsden, Town Hall Silsden
01 Jul EXTRA DATE – Temperance – Leamington Spa
02 Jul Alfold Rock and Blues Festival
08 Sep 100 Club London
21 Oct Morecambe Platform
26 Nov *EXTRA DATE ADDED* Barnoldswick Music & Arts Centre


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: ARCTIC RAIN – Unity

Frontiers [Release date: 27.01.23]

Arctic Rain’s declamatory melodic rock will remind you of several expert practitioners of the genre.

From the Bon Jovi-esque ‘One World’, intense, in your face, with a fleeting sense of melody, and the title track, ‘Unity’, again modelled on a style once made popular by New Jersey’s finest, with vocalist Tobias Jonsson breathing AOR fire.

So yes, there’s a strong sense of deja vu here. It’s clear that the band is trying hard to recreate the chemistry and the circumstances that took AOR and Melodic Rock onto higher ground several decades ago. But simply aping the success of the past now seems a conservative approach, out of place in a time of hostile musical environments.

And so, even AOR bands dial up their music to 11.

Sometimes it works. On tracks ‘Fire In My Eyes’ and ‘Kings Of The Radio’, Jonsson’s muscular vocals evoke Graham Bonnet’s skyscaping yet eminently melodic delivery. There are no shortages of thundering rhythms and thick cut riffs here, all armour clad, tuneful, operating like a well oiled machine, reminiscent at times of Mr Big and Harem Scarem.

At other times they fall into the same trap as did many other bands who were sucked into the slipstream of big selling stadium rock, abandoning originality while progressively complicating the concept, losing them more fans than they could ever gain.

It could explain why the not quite chest beating ballad, ‘Believe’, sketched around a soft focus piano, is perhaps the album’s outstanding track. ***

Review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


News: GLEN MATLOCK, SAXON, GRAND DESIGN (February 2023)

GRAHAM BONNET BAND - The Tivoli, Buckley, 24 August 2018

News - Album News

Angel release their new album ‘Once Upon A Time’, via Cleopatra Records on April 21.

Babylon A.D. release Live Lightning’ via Perris Records on March 17.

Elles Bailey releases an expanded version of her ‘Shining in The Half Light’ album on 17 March. The expanded version includes a new song ‘Spinning Stopped’ plus covers of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s ‘Long As I See The Light’ and John Martyn’s ‘Over The Hill’, plus five live tracks.

Black Spiders release their fourth album, ‘Can’t Die, Won’t Die’, via Spinefarm Records on 12 May.

Joe Bonamassa releases a live album ‘Tales Of Time’ on April 14.

Graham Bonnet (pictured) is collaborating with Arch Enemy guitarist Jeff Loomis and they have written six songs together to date. Loomis is also a member of Bonnet’s version of Alcatrazz.

The Damned release their new album ‘Darkadelic’ on April 28 via earMUSIC.

Grand Design release their latest album ‘Rawk’ through GMR Music on April 21.

Paul Gilbert releases an all instrumental album in tribute to Ronnie James Dio. It is entitled ‘The Dio Album’ and is released on April 17 through Music Theories Recordings/Mascot Label Group.

The Guess Who will release a new studio album, ‘Plein D’Amour’, later in the year through Deko Entertainment.

Hawkwind release their latest album, ‘Future Never Waits’, through Cherry Red Records on April 28.

Hurricane release a new album ‘Thrill Is On’ on Escape Music in the summer.

Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit release their eighth album, ‘Weathervanes’, on June 9 via Southeastern Records/Thirty Tigers.

Elton John has an expanded release of his 1972 album ‘Honky Chateau’ released on March 24.

Jelusick, who feature Dino Jelusick, have signed to Escape Music and will release the band’s debut album in the spring,

Karnatka release their new album ‘Requiem For A Dream’ on June 5.

Linkin Park release a 20th anniversary edition of their ‘Meteora’ album on April 7.

Arjen Lucassen’s Supersonic Revolution will release their debut album ‘Golden Age Of Music’ on 19 May via Music Theories Recording/Mascot Label Group.

Glen Matlock releases his new album ‘Consequences Coming’ on 27 April on Cooking Vinyl.

Graham Nash releases a new album ‘Now’ on May 19.

Axel Rudi Pell releases ‘The Ballads VI’ via Steamhammer/SPV on April 21.

Pendragon release an EP entitled ‘North Star’ in May to coincide with their live dates during that month.

Primal Fear release their new album ‘Code Red’ on September 1 on Atomic Fire Records.

The Rolling Stones new album is set to feature guest spots from Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, with the album being produced by Andrew Watt.

Former HammerFall bassist Magnus Rosen releases ‘It’s Time To Rock The World Again’ under the Magnus Rosén Band name, on April 21 on X-World/Sound Pollution.

Saxon plan to release their next studio album in 2024 and Biff Byford is working on his second solo album.

Skid Row plan to release a live album later this this. It was recorded at the band’s London show last year.

The next in BMG’s series of deluxe Slade reissues sees ‘Nobody’s Fools’ and ‘The Amazing Kamikaze Syndrome’. Both are released on March 3.

Smackbound release their new album ‘Hostage’ on April 21 on Frontiers.

Soft Machine release their new album, ‘Other Doors’, though Dyad Records on June 30.

Tame Impala release a tenth anniversary box set of their ’Lonerism’ album on May 26.

Geoff Tate is nearing completion on his new solo album and a Sweet Oblivion album is also due later this year.

Tesla plan to release a live album, ‘Time To Rock!’, this summer.

TNT have started work on a new album.

Tygers Of Pan Tang release their latest album ‘Bloodlines’ on may 5 on Mighty Music.

Type O Negative re-issue their ‘Dead Again’ album as a double LP & cassette editions on May 5.

Van Halen begin revisiting their Sammy Hagar years with the first-ever vinyl edition of ‘Live: Right Here, Right Now’ on April 22 for Record Store Day.

Visions Of Atlantis release a live album of their 2022 Wacken show, ‘Pirates Over Wacken’, out March 31 via Napalm Records.

The Who release ‘The Who With Orchestra Live At Wembley’ on March 31. It was recorded at their 2019 show.

Neil Young, with Nils Lofgren, Ralph Molina and Billy Talbot, release a new album ‘All Roads Lead Home’ on March 31 via NYA Records.

News - Tours and Gigs

Newly announced UK tours (2023 unless stated):

Jon Anderson (July 22 London), Fall Out Boy, Focus, Gryphon, Guns N Roses, Glenn Hughes, Howard Jones, Nik Kershaw, the Mars Volta, the Mission, Gary Numan (April 13-15 London), the Proclaimers, Sparks, Rod Stewart, They Might Be Giants, Trivium, UK Subs (farewell tour), the Who,

Upcoming (Gigs – UK)

Newly announced US & European tours (2023 unless stated):

Bryan Adams + Joan Jett (US), Alter Bridge + Sevendust (US), Beartooth + Trivium (US), Carcass + Municipal Waste (US), Corrosion Of Conformity (US), Demon Hunter (US), Depeche Mode (US), Duran Duran (US), Fall Out Boy + Bring Me The Horizon (US), Gaslight Anthem (US), Godsmack (US), Guns N Roses (Eur), Glenn Hughes (Eur), Megadeth (Eur), Moonspell (US), Joe Perry Project (US), Robert Plant & Alison Krauss (US), Sparks (Eur & US), Bruce Springsteen & the E-Street Band (US), Stryper (US), Tarja (US), Corey Taylor (US), U2 (Las Vegas), the Who (Eur), Rob Zombie + Alice Cooper + Ministry + Filter (US),

Upcoming (USA/ROW)

Ozzy Osbourne has announced he is retiring from touring and his oft delayed UK & Ireland tour with Judas Priest this summer has been cancelled.

Download festival have added more bands to this year’s line-up including Alter Bridge, Halestorm, Clutch, Mammoth WVH, Bad Wolves, Five Finger Death Punch, The HU, Epica, Carcass, Avatar, Coheed & Cambria and Fearless Vampire Killers.

Skindred will support KISS on their UK dates.

Dee Snider has said there are ‘no plans’ further live shows by Twisted Sister following last month’s appearance at the Metal Hall of Fame show.

Elton John’s current farewell touring is already the highest grossing in music history.

With The Dead Daisies taking a break for 2023 at least, Glenn Hughes has announced he will be back touring solo starting with some Spanish dates in May.

Interviewed at this year’s Grammy awards Mick Fleetwood said he thought Fleetwood Mac as a touring entitiy were done, following the death of Christine McVie. However, the various band members will still tour with Stevie Nicks already announcing US dates.

Bassist Tony Fox Sales will no longer be joining the celebration of Iggy Pop’s ‘Lust For Life’ album. His place will now be taken by Glen Matlock.

Other Stuff

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′, while Best Alternative Music Performance was won by Wet Leg. Other winners included Bonnie Raitt, Willie Nelson & Edgar Winter, with Lifetime Achievement awards for both Nirvana and Heart’s Ann & Nancy Wilson.

Ryders Creed have announced they are taking a break and as a result have cancelled all their planned live shows for this year.

Geezer Butler publishes his autobiography, ‘Into The Void: From Birth To Black Sabbath – And Beyond’, on June 6 in the US and Jun 8 in the UK.

The V&A’s David Bowie Is… exhibition is set to be made into permanent venue celebrating his legacy.

Voyager will represent Australia at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest with their song ‘Promise’.

In through the out door…line-up changes

Big Big Train have announced that guitarist Maria Barbieri will step in to cover for current guitarist Dave Foster, who has prior commitments with the Steve Rothery Band.

Major changes in the Thundermother camp as only lead guitarist Filippa Nässil remains. She is joined in a new line-up by returning bassist Majsan Lindberg and vocalist Linnéa Vikström.

Marc Lopes is the new vocalist for Metal Church

Drummer Jay Schellen has officially been made a member of Yes.

 Milo Silvestro is the new vocalist for Fear Factory.

News - RIP

Barrett Strong, who had a hit with ‘Money (That’s What I Want)’ and went on to write many more Motown classics for other artists.

Bass player Phil Spalding who worked with GTR (Steve Hackett/Steve Howe) and Mike Oldfield

Composer, songwriter and producer Burt Bacharach


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Gig review: DIRTY HONEY – The Garage, London, 24 January 2023

DIRTY HONEY- The Garage, London, 24 January 2023

Many American bands are choosing to skip Europe and the UK with the rising cost of touring. And the cost of living crisis and the sheer volume of gigs as the industry tries to make up for the time lost to covid mean that attendances are down across the board.

Yet Dirty Honey have bucked both trends. It was only last summer that the Californian four piece played Download, their own headline shows and supported Rival Sons, yet six months later they were back for an extensive European tour. And this London show was one of a number to sell out ahead of the event, and with an interesting mix of younger fans alongside the forty and fifty somethings that many of the new generation of bands still primarily seem to appeal to.

DIRTY HONEY- The Garage, London, 24 January 2023

There was therefore a palpable sense of excitement in the air and an intro tape of ‘Rock n Roll Damnation’ only improved the mood further as they hit the stage: singer Marc LaBelle and bassist Justin Smolian -with his big curls looking a little like Gene Simmons in his makeup free phase – both the epitome of cool in afghan coats, which they swiftly discarded, and shades.

They opened with ‘Gypsy’ which was already treated like an old friend with some short audience participation while ‘Break You’ even featured a brief guitar and bass jam. ‘Heartbreaker’ was immediately accessible while ‘The Wire’ was one of those with a Led Zeppelin feel, particularly on Marc’s high pitched vocals,  and the impressive ‘Scars’ saw guitarist John Notto off on an extended mid song solo including a snatch of ‘Third Rock From The Sun’.

DIRTY HONEY- The Garage, London, 24 January 2023

The above might lead you to surmise they share the seventies retro approach of the likes of Rival Sons and Greta van Fleet. They do to a point, but the directness of the songs and their pretty boy image are equally akin to the later wave of glam metal bands, certainly those that incorporated bluesier influences. The comparison I was increasingly drawing was with Aerosmith, who of course successfully straddled those two eras, and, either side of ‘Tied Up’ and ‘No Warning’, a very authentic cover of  ‘Last Child’ proved the point.

They were impressively tight, not least as a new drummer Jaydon Bean had been blooded on the tour, while as you would expect, John’s Gibson Les Paul had a classic tone, with his playing style and stage moves calling to mind at various stages Joe Perry, Jimmy Page and Peter Frampton.

DIRTY HONEY- The Garage, London, 24 January 2023

The bluesy ballad ‘Down The Road’ provided some welcome variety and  they even sneaked in an unreleased song in ‘Ride On’. While their first cover had stuck closely to the original, ‘Lets Go Crazy’ took a boldly different approach to the Prince classic, at a slower, darker tempo with the joyful exuberance of the original restricted to a closing jam.

‘California Dreaming’ – which Marc said was about the two different sides of their home state -got the best reception yet while the sweet sounds  of ‘Another Last Time’, with its vibes of the Black Crowes or even a Cinderella ballad, was again a welcome contrast, Marc also making a sortie into the front of the crowd.

DIRTY HONEY- The Garage, London, 24 January 2023

They closed with ‘When I’m Gone’ which had a great groove to it, and the solitary encore of  ‘Rollin 7’s’ did likewise, albeit with a looser feel, with the band pulling some great poses and the Aerosmith influences again prominent. They have an engagingly charismatic stage presence, yet Marc said relatively little between songs, meaning that there was little padding in a lean hour and a quarter set.

Their music may not be the most original or adventurous but few are currently pulling it off with the panache that Dirty Honey showed. They looked as if they would be entirely at ease on bigger stages, making this even more one of those nights that those present will boast they were at in years to come.

Review and Photos by Andy Nathan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: MILTON HIDE – The Holloway

Website [Release date 31.03.23]

Milton Hide (AKA husband and wife Jim and Josie Tipler) release their second album, ‘The Holloway’, following on from 2o21′s most enjoyable ‘Temperature’s Rising’. Since then they have played many a show up and down the UK honing their music and sound in the process.

On ‘The Holloway’ Milton Hide aimed to capture the atmosphere of an acoustic band playing right in front of you. Jim Tipler: “We are so proud of Temperature’s Rising and felt it would be very hard to top it. So we thought, as we are an acoustic act, we’d present these songs as if we’re performing just for you, the listener. We approached Phil Jones of Long Way Home Music, who we felt would keep us on track”

“We write songs in order to perform them to an audience” added Josie “so all of these songs have been performed live already. That meant that the arrangements were pretty much in place. But recording is very very different to performing live – there is nowhere to hide.”

There is very little overdubbing and indeed a couple of the tracks are recorded as a single live take. The only other performers are producer Phil Jones who plays bass and bodhran, Simon Yapp on violin & viola and Bruce Knapp on electric guitar.

‘Widow’s Revenge’ is the lead single off the album. It is tradtional folk fare being the tale of a woman wrongly accused of being a witch who returns to wreak her revenge. The singing of Josie is ably complemented by the acoustic guitar, backing vocals and errie finale.

‘Anning’s Fossil Depot’ is one of those songs that folk music does so well, shining a light on a person or events in history that have been overlooked. In this case 18th century palaeontologist Mary Anning and her contribution to science that has only been fully recognised in relatively recent years.

Another true life song, ‘The Happiest Man On Earth’, has a gentle country rock feel and is a tribute to a book of the same name by Eddi Jaku. Auschwitz survivor, Eddi, was an inspirational speaker, having vowed to be the happiest man on earth as a mark of respect for all of those lost in the holocaust.

Jim Timpler takes lead vocal on ‘Cuckmere’ with a soothing melody, featuring wistful clarinet, making for one of the album’s highlights. The title track is a lovely clarinet led instrumental. The clarinet playing of Rosie is also a key feature of ‘Sparkle Jar’. The song comes from the book of the same name by Chris Packham and evokes in music and lyrics a young person’s marvel at the wonders of the natural world.

Milton Hide have taken a leap of faith on ‘The Holloway’ by going for the ‘less is more’ approach and it has worked impressively. The fact they have performed live many times helps greatly in creating the warm, inviting acoustic sound on the album. Another fine folk album from this talented duo. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie

 


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


News: CHANTEL McGREGOR enters “The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness” (February 2023)

Chantel McGregor - Giants Of Rock 2018

Rock website Get Ready to ROCK! has announced the second artist to be inducted in its “GRTR! Grotto of Greatness”.

The website’s version of the “Hall of Fame” is part of its 20th anniversary celebrations in 2023.  A different artist/band will be announced each month until the end of the year.

In February, guitarist/singer/songwriter Chantel McGregor will be the featured artist.

Managing Editor David Randall commented: “We’ve followed Chantel’s progress since at least 2010.  She works tirelessly to promote her music, and is one of the UK’s most gigged independent artists.  Our special feature consolidates our coverage of over a ten year-plus period via interviews, album and gig reviews.”

A new interview with Chantel will launch a month long promotion.  A long-time supporter Pete Feenstra chatted to her for his Sunday feature show on Get Ready to ROCK! Radio.

Says Pete: “Chantel has shown how through consistently good albums, constant touring and manipulation of social media, a young artist can survive and prove durable in an essentially precarious music world.”

The interview will be broadcast on Sunday 29 July at 20:00 GMT.  The special feature launches on 1 February.

Get Ready to ROCK! is celebrating 20 years in 2023 and will be revisiting an impressive archive of material.  During the year the review team will be naming their Top 10 albums and live acts of two decades amongst other activities.  The GRTR!@20 promotion was launched in October 2022 with a series of unique essays written by genre experts highlighting changes over the website’s lifetime.

The Darkness were the first band to be announced in “The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness”. designed to reflect an artist’s consistency and output over two decades and heavily featured by the website.

More information


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review; URIAH HEEP – Chaos and Colour

URIAH HEEP- Chaos and Colour

Silver Lining Music [Release Date 27.01.23]

Uriah Heep spent last year belatedly celebrating their 50th anniversary with some special live shows that showed their distinguished legacy to its finest. But they have also had a contemporary new lease of life.  Their heaviest effort for a long time, 2018’s ‘Living The Dream,’ set the bar high, but this follow up ‘Chaos and Colour’ – in the hands of the same producer Jay Ruston- in my view raises it even higher.

‘Save Me Tonight’ is a blistering opening, nothing less than classic Heep with its galloping rhythms and Phil Lanzon’s organ solo and an illustration how Bernie Shaw,  never my favourite of their various singers, has really grown in to the role.

‘Silver Sunlight’ has a distinctively seventies feel both musically- excellent melodic guitar work from the evergreen Mick Box and a baroque-style organ solo late on – and lyrically, and could have come from the pen of Ken Hensley. Indeed the whole album seems to have drawn inspiration from the band’s classic years, as if in tribute to the band members that have left us – Lee Kerslake and John Lawton being the others – in the years since they last recorded.

‘Hail The Sunrise’, a celebration of the solstice,  is again vintage Heep with Phil stabbing his organ prominently and layered vocal harmonies on the chorus, and ‘Age of Changes’ features another Heep trademark in its harmonic high pitched chants, and more solos as Mick’s guitar gives way to more keyboard wizardry. ‘Hurricane’ (whose opening riff reminds me of Foreigner’s ‘Dirty White Boy’) is relatively ordinary but redeemed by a nice organ solo.

The first change of pace comes in the lengthy ‘One Nation, One Sun’, beginning for its first three minutes as a piano based ballad before tasteful guitar work from Mick. ‘Golden Light’ takes the seventies vibe a stage further with its Hammond-heavy intro, and proggy synths in the middle complemented by a guitar solo.

‘You’ll Never Be Alone’, eight minutes long,  with  piano prominent early on and rapid wah-wah guitar work from Mick, again hints at Ken Hensley’s whimsical work, ’The Magician’s Birthday’ in particular, and the mix of gentle and heavy passages takes us back to their work from the very earliest seventies.

‘Fly Like An Eagle’ also has that proggy feel with some heavy Hammond and synth playing from Phil, while ‘Freedom To Be Free’, the longest of a trio of songs all over seven minutes long, features several different musical passages and even a brief bass and drum jam featuring Dave Rimmer and Russell Gilbrook, both of whom have given the band fresh energy. This adventurous album is bookended by two relatively concise songs and ‘Closer To Your Dreams’ ends proceedings, built on a galloping ‘Easy Living’ inspired rhythm.

While perhaps lacking some truly memorable songs, this is an album is heavily inspired by their distinguished past. It ranks alongside other successful attempts to move back to the classic Heep sound such as ‘Sea Of Light’ and ‘Wake The Sleeper’, but with an added and 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.    **** 3/4

Review by Andy Nathan

The Best of 2023


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: LIV KRISTINE – River Of Diamonds

LIV KRISTINE - River Of Diamonds

Metalville [Release date 21.04.23]

Since 1998, and during an acrimonius split from her band Leaves’ Eyes and partner, Liv Kristine has released a series of excellent pop rock albums.  We chronicled these in our radio special in 2022 when we chatted to Liv about her career.

She seemed content in her new life which combined vocal coaching and her own music, most recently reissuing the 2006 album ‘Enter My Religion’.  This was apparently the first of a series of reissues of her solo material, so it comes as a bit of a surprise that – in 2023 – we have a brand new album.  She’s not resting on her laurels.  She’s also retained producer Tommy Olsson with whom she worked in her first band Theatre Of Tragedy.  Olsson has written and played most of the material.

The opening track is a throwback to the “beauty and beast” male/female vocal she pioneered with her original band.  It is however much softer in execution, and the pop/rock music bed puts it back in the 1980s.

‘No Make Up’ reminds me a little of another great late 1980s/early 90s band All About Eve.  Characterised as ever by Liv’s melodic and mellifluous vocal.

Another reference point – again rooted in the late 1980s – is Simple Minds (on ‘Maligna’).   I haven’t got the lyric sheet but did I hear Liv’s pure, dulcet tones utter “Fuck Him’ and ‘Fuck Her”?

‘Gravity’  (and ‘Serenity’) first appeared on her EP ‘Have Courage Dear Heart’ in 2021.  ‘In Your Blue Eyes’ has a ‘Run To You’ feel to it with a similar sense of welcome urgency.  The title track features Fernando from the goth/metal band Moonspell whilst sister Carmen Elise Espenæs is enlisted for  ‘Love Me High’ which continues a definite eighties/goth vibe.

One of two covers Jon Lord’s ‘Pictured Within’ may seem an unusual choice but it works well with her partner Michael keeping things close-knit and comfortable.   This reminds me that more recently Liv has performed a regular festive gig in Nagold, Germany: this song has an almost seasonal flavour.

‘Shaolin Me’ reminds us that there is a strong spiritual element to Kristine’s music these days, a continuing search for truth and inner peace, and what she describes as the “inner voice”.

This is really a five star album, only docked half a star for the inclusion of two tracks which fans should already possess and a fairly ineffectual cover of ‘True Colours’.  If you have explored that excellent solo back catalogue, you will find much to like here. And of course if you’ve only known Liv via Leaves’ Eyes (or Theatre Of Tragedy) this is a good place to start too.  ****1/2

Review by David Randall

Album review/interview (Enter My Religion, 2022)


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: THE NEVERLAND EXPRESS + CALEB JOHNSON – Paradise Found: Bat Out Of Hell Reignited

Deko Entertainment [Release date 27.01.23]

A reworking of the classic Meat Loaf album ‘Bat Out Of Hell’, based on the live version Meat Loaf’s band the Neverland Express performed with the much missed frontman. Band leader and former Anthrax guitarist Paul Crook explains further by saying – “The music is timeless, and we play it virtually note for note. The wall of sound that fans experience when seeing us live is captured in this recording. Meat Loaf fans will be pleased. We’re hoping this release introduces Meat and Jim to a whole new fan base.”

The Neverland Express are the aforementioned Crook with Justin Avery (keyboards, vocals), Tom Brislin (orchestration), Steve Buslowe (bass), Randy Flowers (guitar), David Luther (saxophone), Lyssa Lynne (vocals) and John Miceli (drums). Steve Buslowe has been around the Meat Loaf live band and albums since ‘Bat Out Of Hell’ and he has also worked on the albums under the Jim Steinman solo & Pandora’s Box handle. Paul Crook,

Randy Flowers and John Miceli have all been involved in Meat Loaf’s live and studio recordings since 2003, whilst Tom Brislin is a member of Kansas and has worked with Yes amongst others. An impressive set of musicians to which is added vocalist Caleb Johnson (American Idol winner, season 13), who has the immense task of taking the place of Meat Loaf. He may not sing with the same timbre as Meat Loaf but he certainly gives it his all and has a powerful set of pipes of that there is no doubt.

The title track has all the bombast you’d expect and want, however, the real stand out is ‘For Crying Out Loud’. The piano and vocal performance are simply stunning and if that wasn’t enough by the time the full orchestrations kick in you are in musical heaven. I am pretty sure Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman would approve of this piece of theatrical rock bombast!

‘Paradise By The Dashboard Light’ remains good fun rock ‘n’ roll and allows Lyssa Lynne to show her vocal talents. Those years of playing these songs live means the playing is spot on and quite possibly the best you’ll hear these songs performed outside of the originals and Meat Loaf’s live recordings.

Tastefully done and job done in that it will introduce a host of new listeners to the music of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie

Celebrating Meat Loaf tour

Mar 31 Westbury The Space at Westbury Theater, NY
Apr 01 Norwalk Wall Street Theatre, CT
May 20 Oxford New Theatre, UK
May 21 Birmingham Symphony Hall, UK
May 23 Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, UK
May 25 Gateshead Sage One, UK
May 26 Manchester The Bridgewater Hall, UK
May 27 London Indigo at The O2, UK


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: GIRLSCHOOL – The School Report 1976-2008

Cherry Red/HNE [Release date: 27.01.23]

Girlschool experienced their share of heartache… label let downs, revolving door membership issues, conflicting views on musical direction and the struggles to sustain their ambitions in the face of all of the above.

But they soldiered on regardless, having to endure some critical bashings by the music press, but enjoying brief peaks of fame nonetheless.

This sumptious Girlschool 5 CD package is walled inside an A5 hardback book.

In essence, the book, authored by NWOBHM expert and essayist John Tucker, vividly recalls the storied career of this talented all women band. And includes many pages of rare photos and much sought after memorabilia.

It’s clearly destined to become a collector’s piece.

The CDs:
CD1: Demolition Girls
CD2: Playing Dirty
CD3: Still Not That Innocent
CD4: Singles, B-sides and Demos
CD5: The Pre-School Years – Painted Lady Live

It’s in our favour that a considerable amount of poetic license is taken with CD1. In fact Demolition Girls (1980) turns out to be a “best of…” the band’s first 3 albums, running to over 20 tracks, including key cuts like ‘You Got Me”, ‘Don’t Call It Love’ and ‘Take It From Me’ from Hit And Run (1981), and Screaming Blue Murder (1982).

Same story with CD2, Playing Dirty. 1983 was to be a crucial year for the band. It was to be the time of transition, from Metallised Biker Punk, to polished American Pop/Metal. Success beckoned.

This School Report version adds many notable tracks to CD2, taken from the band’s fifth album, Running Wild and their sixth release, Nightmare At Maple Cross. This latter album had been an attempt to arrest the gradual slide in the their fortunes over their last half a dozen releases. It signalled a slight return to the DIY Garage Rock excitement that first launched the band into their post Painted Ladies chapter.

Talking of which, CD 5, The Pre-School Years, Painted Ladies Live, is a blast from start to finish, an introduction to the raw and raucous, rough edged rock that carried the band over from the Punk era to the time of NWOBHM.

CD 4 is where the real treasure is for hardcore fans. From 1983 versions of ‘Tush’ and ‘Don’t Call It Love’ to 1978 demos of ‘Let’s Spend the Night Together’ and ‘I Just Don’t Care’. From 1985 demos of ‘Love Is A Lie’ and ‘Not For Sale’ to 2002 demos of ‘I Told You So’ and ‘London’, this collection captures the evolution of Girlschool sound.

It makes you realise for all the break ups and personnel changes over the years, these girls had been in each other’s company for so long that ultimately, they had clearly developed the kind of musical telepathy that sees you through. ***1/2

Review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: TOM ADAMSON BAND – Old View Of The New World

TOM ADAMSON BAND - Old View Of The New World

Blue Build Records  -  [Release date: 20.12.22]

Tom Adamson is a Scottish-born multi-instrumentalist who has played alongside and supported a diverse number of top-line acts including Sister Sledge, Supergrass, Toploader, Johnny Dankworth & Cleo Laine and er, John Barrowman.

This is the third outing for his band following ‘Medium Eyes, Blue Build’ and ‘Acceptable Tattoo’.

On first glance at the tracklist I thought “effin’ ‘ell, here we go again” with track names including ‘The Black Dinner’, ‘Oan Yer Bike’, ‘I Am Mean’ and ‘Paint The Town, Fred’ suggesting a comedic, novelty record with smart-arse lyrics trying to show you just how funny they are – you know, like Madness…

But I got it all wrong – never judge a book by its cover and all that.

Because this is a fine album – a weird mix of rock, jazz, folk, blues, Celtic and prog that gels together rather well despite its pot-pourri of genres.

A drummer by trade (although additionally playing guitar, keys and mouth organ here), Adamson has drawn together a great band of talented musicians to realise this project, particularly guitarist Jamie McCredie (a first-rate player) and Konrad Wisniewski, whose filthy sax is all over this record like a rash.

Whether it’s instrumentals such as ‘Ballyhoo’, ‘Kill The Kin’ and ‘Oan Yer Bike’,  or Americana like ‘See The Light’, ‘Take Me’ or, in particular the John Hiatt / Fairport Convention crossover of ‘Waiting For Life To Begin’ the band are as tight as a gnat’s chuff.

There’s jazzy interludes on ‘Stillness Of The Night’ and ‘Feast Your Eyes’ – the latter in particular a real workout for Wisniewski, there’s a touch of Santana on ‘Let’s Paint The Town, Fred’ and a hint of Supertramp on ‘I Am Mean’.

But I would point you in the direction of ‘Sail On The Wind’ where fans of the guitar solo will be dampening their trousers and ‘Just Another Way To Make A Friend’ whose swamp-blues has McCredie’s howling guitar to the fore and an Alan Price-alike Hammond solo to savour.

It is, without doubt, a really diverse album and it’s this very diversity that could appeal to everyone or, just as likely, nobody – but, taken at face value, is an uplifting and entertaining set of songs that deserves a listen.    ***1/2    

Review by Alan Jones

 


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: THE FIRST CLASS – Beach Baby – The Complete Recordings (3 CD set)

Cherry Red [release date: 27.01.23]

1974, and the first pop single to be written by Shakespeare, ‘Beach Baby’, breaks into the US and UK charts.

John Carter (not that one) was born John Shakespeare. A singer, songwriter and producer who wrote and produced a multiplicity of hit singles in a variety of guises, in the sixties and seventies.

This was the era where many bands, often of the one hit wonder type, were assembled from the ranks of session and backing singers, generally as an outlet for prolific songwriters like Carter. The First Class was one such band.

The First Class’s breakthrough hit was ‘Beach Baby’, going to no.13 in the UK Top Forty charts and no.4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It was a study in sophisticated pop immediacy. A mini concerto, constructed from brass, strings and harmony vocals, modeled on US surfing music, fronted by session singer Tony Burrows.

It made you want to tap your feet, nod your head, singalong. It was the definition of feelgood popular music, capturing a sense of nostalgia for a time that was only a decade old. For 5 minutes and 10 seconds, Carter challenged the creative dominance of his peers, he was up there with artists like Brian Wilson and Jeff Lynne.

CD1 is the self titled debut album in its entirety, plus 10 bonus tracks including both the full length single version, and the radio edit version of ‘Beach Baby’.

CD2 is the 1976 follow up album, SST, again with many, many bonus tracks. This album didn’t sell so well. The problem with having a blinding light of a hit single is that almost always, everything thereafter seems dull in comparison. Even if there is a bunch of quality material on show.

Meanwhile, beavering away in the background, Carter had made significant contact in the prosperous world of advertising. His ear for a catchy tune, and a hook that works fast, had got him noticed.

CD3 includes some 16 jingles written and recorded by Carter and his team for such well known brands as British Caledonia, Singer Sewing Machine, Kit E Kat Munchies, Birdseye, Silvikrin Shampoo, Right Guard Deodorant, Vauxhall cars and many more.

You might think “Why would I want to buy a CD of TV adverts?” Truth is, that third CD truly is the sound of an era. This is where the real life nostalgia is. People of a certain age will find themselves singing along. And when you do, remember this was the guy who gave us ‘Beach Baby’, a classic pop single, one of the best of the seventies, and for that matter, of any decade.

Cherry Red recognise Carter’s contribution to Pop Culture by including a brand new, 5000 word essay, which chronicles his life and times as a genre brand leader. *****

Review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review : HOLOCAUST – Heavy Metal Mania – The Complete Recordings, Vol 1 1980-1984 (6 CDs)

Cherry Red [Release date 27.01.23]

Carrying the NWOBHM torch in Scotland since 1977, Edinburgh’s Holocaust are the genre’s archetypal survivors.

They are almost literally the definition of “Metal bands who’ve flown under the radar their whole career”.

Arguably, it was the championing of the band by Metallica that allowed for their rise to relative fame, and gained them a stubborn, hard won foothold. Thanks to only surviving founder member, John Mortimer, the band are still releasing quality material…the Elder Gods album (2019) being the most recent of a so far 12 album career.

This 6 CD boxset is named for the band’s debut single in 1980, ‘Heavy Metal Mania’. It was followed by another wonderfully titled, headbanging single later that year, ‘Smokin Valves’.

These two gritty, powerful pieces of NWOBHM formed the core of the band’s debut album, The Nightcomers (CD1).

In an interesting departure from your normal boxset approach, this set compresses all of the band’s output during 1980 and the four years that followed. This includes a live recording of their famous 1981 gig at Edinburgh’s Nite Club, titled Hot Curry And Wine (CD2).

An ambitious 80 minute “video version” of the gig went up for sale soon after.

You’d be lucky to get your hands on the resulting “soundtrack” version for less than £50 nowadays. It’s here in all its estimable glory (CD4).

Done live, the band’s music, raw, raucous and heavy as a heavy thing, radiates its own heat … you can taste the sweat as it drips from the venue’s ceiling.

The dark notes and industrial clamour of standouts ‘Bridge of Impressions’ and ‘Out My Book’ are as good an approximation of the band’s career making music as you can get. But it’s ‘The Small Hours’ that is considered the classic track, famously covered by Metallica. It makes it’s debut on this recording.

CD6, Heavy Metal Mania, adds b-sides and singles to the original 3 track EP (from 1980)… an unquestionably powerful beginning. Those 3 riff heavy tracks, ‘Heavy Metal Mania’, ‘Loves’s Power’ and ‘Only As Young As You Feel’ formed the template which shaped the band’s music for the next 30 years.

In a bizarre move (though one in the spirit of including every recording from that period), CD3 features the album Steal The Stars (1983), from the band Hologram, formed by ex Holocaust member, Ed Dudley.

CD5 : After a short hiatus, Mortimer reformed the band and recorded some newly written material, titling the resulting album No Man’s Land (1984).

At worst, it’s a perfunctory, half hearted run through familiar Holocaust tropes.

At best it’s confirmation that it was time for a break.

Still, 5 CDs out of 6 ain’t bad. CDs 1, 2 and 4 are worth the admission price themselves.

Long may they run. ****

Review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: CHRIS ROSANDER – The Monster Inside

chris rosander the monster inside

Pride & Joy Music [Release date 17.02.23]

Chris Rosander released his debut album ‘King Of Hearts’ in 2020 on the now defunct AOR Heaven. As the pandemic put paid to any live plans, Chris Rosander started work on making more music which brings us to this album.

Chris says about the new album, “A monster inside. Don’t we all have one of those? I know I do, and I believe that the most of us have, metaphorically speaking a monster inside and that’s what this work is all about. On this record you get to hear 11 stories/songs about different people, each got a more twisted/darker side of them self than the other.”

Chris Rosander produced the album, as well as playing guitar and keys, and was joined by Perfect Plan’s P-O Sedin (bass guitars), Magnus ‘Grunna’ Grundström (drums), Rasmus Fors and Johan Sjödin (keyboards), and Anton Frengen (guitar).

The title track openers the album with a heavy hard rock punch as befits the song’s lyrical content. ‘This Isn’t New’ is a similarly darker song, although the parping keys stop the song becoming too gloomy!

Those Toto influences can be heard loud and clear on ‘Only Hearts Die Young’. Prime time AOR and that guitar solo is rather special too. ‘High On Love’ is another Toto-like song and again the guitar solo is top notch.

‘Northern Lights’ and ‘Little White Lines’ (loving the funky rhythm section on this one) have a latter day Europe feel to them, whilst ‘When I’m Gone’ is a nicely arranged ballad. Hid love of West Coast AOR shines through on here with glorious keys and harmonzied backing vocals aplenty.

Chris Rosander has progressed from his debut release with a deeper sound & production. Having a theme running thtough all the songs also helps to make this a more cohesive effort. The harder edge to some of the songs, without losing that melodic rock attraction, is another plus point in the album’s favour. For a guy in his mid-20′s he is making music you’d expect from a more seasoned musician and here we have his finest album to date. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Single review: FEENSTRA & SIMPSON – Your Eyes Gave You Away

FEENSTRA & SIMPSON - Your Eyes Gave You Away

YouTube

A new songwriter outlet for GRTR! writer, radio presenter and promoter Pete Feenstra as he he teams up with John Simpson. No not the TV news reporter but the John Simpson who helped found the Feelgoods, a Dr Feelgood tribute band and one he left at the end of last year. Pete Feenstra wrote the lyrics whilst John Simpson worked on the melody and arrangement, which was recorded in his home studio.

With both having a background and love of the blues the song proves a bit of a shock (in a nice way!) upon first listen. The song has an air of Tom Petty (solo version), both vocally and in the melodies. The gentle guitar chords sit well with the vocals of Simpson and the lyrics will resonate with many a listener.

Quality adult orientated pop which not many artists do or can even achieve nowadays. Will appeal to lovers of Phil Thornalley/Astral Drive and the aforementioned Tom Pettty. A good start and looking forward to hearing more from this duo.  ****

Review by Jason Ritchie


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review : TRAPEZE – Don’t Stop The Music – Complete Recordings Vol 1 1970-1992 (6 CD Boxset)

Cherry Red [Release date: 24.02.23]

A cool, 6-CD boxset of high calibre Trapeze material. Three CDs of studio albums plus 3 CDs of live recordings, one as recent as 1992.

CD1 : Trapeze (originally released 1970)

The debut tends to get overlooked, mainly because of its proto hard rock nature.

It was the sound of a band – primarily Mel Galley, Glenn Hughes, Dave Holland – in its formative years, reluctantly casting off the pop psychedelia of the sixties, tentatively embracing the blazing, driving hard rock of the seventies. But some of the past survives . . . two particular song titles alone, ‘The Giant’s Dead, Hoorah’ and ‘Fairytale, Verily Verily’ Fairytale’ kind of give the game away.

That said, Hughes’ darkly confessional, ‘Am I’ and the classic rock ballad, ‘Send Me No More Letters’ pointed the direction home, making an indelible mark on the face of seventies rock and is worthy of celebration here.

CD2 : Medusa (originally released 1970)

Now a solid, minimalist trio, we hear the band grafting Hughes’ rubbery funk bass runs onto Galley’s crafted chordwork, most especially on ‘Black Cloud, ‘Your Love Is Alright’, and ‘Seafull’.

What impacts you most is the fact that there’s a rigour to Trapeze’s music, a technical brilliance that’s hidden behind fluent, impressive playing, Hughes gets all the vocal plaudits, but Galley’s guitar, voice and writing helped lay the foundations of Classic Rock.

CD3 : You Are The Music… (originally released 1971)

Two albums under their belt, and the trio were really cookin’ now. This third album is full of stomping, stadium filling rock songs.

Hughes hit a songwriting purple patch, contributing a significant amount of enduring material, including standout tracks, ‘Coast To Coast’, ‘Way Back To The Bone’ and ‘Will Our Love End’.

It was to be their last studio album together. Soon After, Hughes took a free transfer to Deep Purple.

CDs 4 and 5 : Live In Dallas (1973).
CD6 : Welcome To The Real World: Live At The Borderline 1992.

This hand picked collection is a particularly appropriate memorial to the band’s famous line up, centred on two seriously good live gigs.

Live in Dallas is previously unreleased. Texas was something of a Trapeze stronghold, and the band naturally pick up the crowd pleasers from the first two albums – the rumbling sonic swagger of ‘Your Love Is Alright’ and ‘Black Cloud’ must have rocked anything in Dallas that wasn’t nailed down that night, plus ‘You Are The Music’ and ‘Keepin Time’, key tracks from that third album.

The sixth CD in the boxset, recorded live in London many years later, showcases the awesome talent Trapeze possessed in spades. The punchy 9 track performance includes all the usual suspects and received the ovation you would expect from a discerning audience.
Some people thought it was all over…

No argument, this collection exploits the bigger picture provided by a boxset. It’s a perfectly tailored example of how an astute compiler can take us on a thrilling journey though the best years of a band’s life. *****

Review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: CASEY MAUNDER – Until Your Heart Stops Beating

CASEY MAUNDER - Until Your Heart Stops Beating

Website

Once again the musical hand of fate plays a blinder as Casey Maunder sent his debut album in for possible review and boy is it a good one! Casey plays all the guitars, vocals, bass, keys and wrote all the songs. The album’s producer is James Weaver and he also played bass, keys and programmed the drums.

Opening with a statement of intent with ‘Set Yourself On Fire’, a song with a instant chorus, riffs aplenty and a damn fine melodic hard rock tune. ‘Rolling The Rat House’ continues the good time rocking. Casey Maunder reminds me of Kelly Jones of the Stereophonics, that little bit of grit in a melodious vocal.

‘Thinking About The Moon’ is a slower tempo song, featuring another memorable chorus and nice little bit of keys. The ballad ‘City Rain’ sees an impassioned vocal on the chorus and again reminiscent of the Stereophonics.

‘Click Me, Swipe Me, Like Me’ is a belter and would be all over the radio in alternate world. Touch of Noddy Holder and the Slade sound on the social commentary on ‘If The World Was Torn In To’. Hard hitting lyric wrapped up in a delicious pop rock tune – bliss.

If you are after a melodic rock meets pop rock fix this album is for you. How he is not signed to a label is a mystery, as this album is more cohesive and full of melodies than can be found on many similar releases in this genre. Casey Maunder has set his own musical bar high with this top notch album. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie

We caught up with Casey who provided more background on the album and his fantasy band line-up…

How would you describe your music to a potential listener?

I think there are lots of different types of songs on the album but if I had to describe my music in a way that ties it all together, I’d say, high energy, guitar driven, melodic rock n roll.

What made you want to start singing and writing & recording your own music?

My father was always a gigging musician and so we had guitars, pianos and drum kits at home when I was growing up and so myself, my dad and my brother would be jamming and annoying the neighbours from an early age! At 12 I was going on gigs with my dad’s bands and getting up to do a few songs. I’d always written songs from when I first started playing but with this album I really wanted to go it alone and not have to compromise the material with other members of a band.

Who are your main musical influences and why?

The two bands that really blew me away when I was in my teens were Van Halen and Motley Crue. The music, the image and the attitude was so larger than life, I just couldn’t believe what I was seeing and hearing. Later on I discovered the Manic Street Preachers and although they were as high energy as the other bands I was listening to, lyrically they had a big influence on me as they were commenting on what they could see around them and being fellow Welsh men I could really relate to them.

Could you take us through the songs on your debut album e.g. recording process, stories behind the songs?

In terms of the process, myself and my producer James Weaver have a really good understanding and he’s always able to take what’s in my mind and make it a reality. Its always just the two of us in the studio and once I’ve laid the guitars down we can arrange the songs around that in terms of what needs to be layered on top.

In terms of the stories behind the songs they always tend to be about my outlook on the world and the things I see and experience. Rolling at The Rathouse for instance is about the nights I used to spend at infamous Swansea music venue The Coach House. You’d have metalheads, punks, goths and everything in between but everyone was bonded by our love of live music.

If the world was torn in two is about all the division I saw in the country after Brexit, Trump, Johnson etc. It seemed like everyone hated each other and wanted to kind of separate themselves from anyone that disagreed with them.

A lot of the other songs such as Set Yourself on fire and Slam dunk superstar are about self belief and saying I’m going to do what I do no matter who tries to put me down. Its also where the name of the album came from.

Any other bands & artists we should be listening to and checking out?

There’s so much amazing music being produced at the moment but certainly in the UK, the mainstream media seems to ignore it. Two that really stand out for me are Massive Wagons and The Struts. Both British bands that I’ve been fortunate enough to catch live. They both have so much energy and melody they always lift me when I listen to them

If you could create a fantasy band line up to join you on stage who would be in it and why?

Drums would be easy. Tommy Lee. An absolute hero of mine and a musician that doesn’t get the credit he deserves mainly because they were such an image driven band. On guitar it would be Nuno Bettencourt of Extreme because he’s simply the most gifted musician I’ve ever heard. Bass would be Nicky Wire of The Manics. Solid player, great lyricist and just really cool. If I couldn’t pick myself as singer and second guitar player then it would be Sammy Hagar. I absolutely love his voice and he’s still bringing it in his 70s!

What have you got planned gig wise for 2023?

There are a few live shows in the pipeline but they’re top secret at the moment! I promise I’ll let everyone know when I can! I can confirm that I’ll be opening up for Hell’s Addiction in April though and that a brand new single will be out before then!

My message to everyone that has downloaded, streamed or bought the album would be one of massive appreciation! You always think you’re writing good material but the real test is whether the guys listening to the music like it too and to see so many of you engage with the music is amazing.


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: ISSA – Lights Of Japan

Frontiers [Release date: 20.01.23]

Issa Oversveen is married to James Martin, ex of Vega. With his brother Tom, he’s written the bulk of the material here.

And you can tell.

Even with the best efforts of guitarist Simone Mularoni and the ubiquitous Alessandro Del Vecchio, Issa’s last release, Queen Of Broken Hearts, was all over the place at times, sadly, some of them not worth a second visit.

This time around, with her seventh album, Lights Of Japan, Issa’s vocal skills have been calibrated to the standard of the Martins’ undeniable songcraft. Experienced producer / arranger, Michele (Visions Of Atlantis) Guaitola has done an impressive job in bringing it all together, creating a distinctive sound that just might remind you why you got into melodic rock in the first place.

‘Live Again’ is a lightning bolt of an opener, forcing you to sit up and pay attention. It’s as if a slice of symphonic flavoured eurorock has been crossbred with some old Heart songs, leading into an irritatingly familiar, pulse quickening chorus.

But that’s only the beginning. You could argue a case that ‘Chains’ and ‘Its Over’ are the album’s standouts. The sense of sophistication and excitement in the arrangements, the emerging emotional depth in Issa’s vocal delivery are just two key ingredients in the firm grip of all the participants.

Yet, it’s probably the glorious pop immediacy of the title track, ‘Lights Of Japan’ that puts it into pole position. It’s a big, orchestrated production number, the kind of rock song that troubled the shoulder padded Billboard charts over 30 years ago. Out of fashion perhaps, but for the MR connoisseur, this is powerful stuff.

There’s a steely spine of consistency running through the rest of the material, All of it sharing those common denominators – the melodies, the hooks, the urgency – most notably, ‘Stop The Rain’, and ‘I Give My Heart’. Both reach for that climactic melodic moment that makes Melodic Rock a survivor genre. ****

Review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: BRICK BRISCOE – Found Footage

MIKE CAMPESE - Reset

Facebook [Release date 20.04.26] Brick Briscoe, what a great discovery. Hands up who’s heard of him. One or two at the back yeah. So I’d never heard of him either, but I’m damned glad I’ve been hipped to him now. … Continue reading

Album review: MIKE CAMPESE – Reset

MIKE CAMPESE - Reset

www.mikecampese.com [Release date 11.11.22] I’m sorry but Mike Campese exhibits all the worst aspects of “guitar virtuoso”.  Guitarists may well acknowledge his technical mastery (and he has featured in several big guitar mags) but for the average listener this is … Continue reading

Album review: CERI JUSTICE – Walk In Shadow

CERI JUSTICE - Walk In Shadow

www.cerijustice.rocks [Release date 15.04.22] Here at GRTR! it doesn’t really matter that we are reviewing an album nearly 12 months old.  If it comes to our attention belatedly and is meritorious, we do it.  It was Pete Feenstra playing a … Continue reading

Album review: KATATONIA – Sky Void Of Stars

KATATONIA-150x150

Napalm Records [Release date: 20.01.23] Ever since Swedish behemoths Katatonia de-coupled themselves from the doom-metal train to oblivion with the ‘Night Is The New Day’ album way back in 2009, they have been the flag-bearers of a genre best described … Continue reading

Album review: RONNIE ROMERO – Raised On Heavy Radio

RONNIE ROMERO - Raised On Heavy Radio

Frontiers Records [Release date: 27.01.23] Second “Raised On…” album from Ronnie (Rainbow, Lords Of Black, The Ferry Men) Romero. Recording cover versions of your favourite songs must be a temptation that’s impossible to resist. Many singers/bands have done it. Few … Continue reading

Album review: JARROD DICKENSON – Big Talk

JARROD DICKENSON - Big Talk

 Website [Release date 03.02.23] After a major label deal-gone-bad and Covid complications left him with a life-long medical condition, Jarrod Dickenson comes out fighting with ‘Big Talk’, an album full of classy melodies and lyrics. The album features Jano Rix (The … Continue reading

Album review : CROWNE – Operation Phoenix

CROWNE - Operation Phoenix

Frontiers [elease date: 27.01.23] Second album from Crowne, a high end assembly made up of members of H.E.A.T., Art Nation, Europe, The Poodles and Dynazty. Respectively, Jona Tee, Alexander Strandell, John Leven, Christial Lundqvist and Love Magnusson. The debut didn’t … Continue reading

Album review: DOCKER’S GUILD – The Mystic Technocracy Season 2: The Age Of Entropy

DOCKER’S GUILD – The Mystic Technocracy Season 2: The Age Of Entropy

Website Docker’s Guild is a massive progressive metal space opera which will unfold through five “seasons” and four “books” for a total of nine albums. It is masterminded by producer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Douglas R. Docker. Joining him on this … Continue reading

Feature: The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness – CHANTEL McGREGOR (February 2023)

The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness

Chantel’s down to earth Yorkshire lass delivery has endeared her to fans as much as her musicianship… Photo: David Randall Yorkshire singer/songwriter/guitarist Chantel McGregor first came to our attention in May 2010 when Pete Feenstra reviewed her debut London gig … Continue reading

Album review: ARCTIC RAIN – Unity

ARCTIC RAIN - Unity

Frontiers [Release date: 27.01.23] Arctic Rain’s declamatory melodic rock will remind you of several expert practitioners of the genre. From the Bon Jovi-esque ‘One World’, intense, in your face, with a fleeting sense of melody, and the title track, ‘Unity’, … Continue reading

News: GLEN MATLOCK, SAXON, GRAND DESIGN (February 2023)

GRAHAM BONNET BAND - The Tivoli, Buckley, 24 August 2018

Angel release their new album ‘Once Upon A Time’, via Cleopatra Records on April 21. Babylon A.D. release ‘Live Lightning’ via Perris Records on March 17. Elles Bailey releases an expanded version of her ‘Shining in The Half Light’ album on 17 March. The expanded version includes … Continue reading

Gig review: DIRTY HONEY – The Garage, London, 24 January 2023

DIRTY HONEY- The Garage, London, 24 January 2023

Many American bands are choosing to skip Europe and the UK with the rising cost of touring. And the cost of living crisis and the sheer volume of gigs as the industry tries to make up for the time lost … Continue reading

Album review: MILTON HIDE – The Holloway

Website [Release date 31.03.23] Milton Hide (AKA husband and wife Jim and Josie Tipler) release their second album, ‘The Holloway’, following on from 2o21′s most enjoyable ‘Temperature’s Rising’. Since then they have played many a show up and down the … Continue reading

News: CHANTEL McGREGOR enters “The GRTR! Grotto of Greatness” (February 2023)

GRTR!@20

Rock website Get Ready to ROCK! has announced the second artist to be inducted in its “GRTR! Grotto of Greatness”. The website’s version of the “Hall of Fame” is part of its 20th anniversary celebrations in 2023.  A different artist/band … Continue reading

Album review; URIAH HEEP – Chaos and Colour

URIAH HEEP- Chaos and Colour

Silver Lining Music [Release Date 27.01.23] Uriah Heep spent last year belatedly celebrating their 50th anniversary with some special live shows that showed their distinguished legacy to its finest. But they have also had a contemporary new lease of life. … Continue reading

Album review: LIV KRISTINE – River Of Diamonds

LIV KRISTINE - River Of Diamonds

Metalville [Release date 21.04.23] Since 1998, and during an acrimonius split from her band Leaves’ Eyes and partner, Liv Kristine has released a series of excellent pop rock albums.  We chronicled these in our radio special in 2022 when we … Continue reading

Album review: THE NEVERLAND EXPRESS + CALEB JOHNSON – Paradise Found: Bat Out Of Hell Reignited

The Neverland Express and Caleb Johnson

Deko Entertainment [Release date 27.01.23] A reworking of the classic Meat Loaf album ‘Bat Out Of Hell’, based on the live version Meat Loaf’s band the Neverland Express performed with the much missed frontman. Band leader and former Anthrax guitarist … Continue reading

Album review: GIRLSCHOOL – The School Report 1976-2008

Girlschool_HNEBOX161-min-scaled1-150x150

Cherry Red/HNE [Release date: 27.01.23] Girlschool experienced their share of heartache… label let downs, revolving door membership issues, conflicting views on musical direction and the struggles to sustain their ambitions in the face of all of the above. But they soldiered … Continue reading

Album review: TOM ADAMSON BAND – Old View Of The New World

TOM ADAMSON BAND

Blue Build Records  -  [Release date: 20.12.22] Tom Adamson is a Scottish-born multi-instrumentalist who has played alongside and supported a diverse number of top-line acts including Sister Sledge, Supergrass, Toploader, Johnny Dankworth & Cleo Laine and er, John Barrowman. This … Continue reading

Album review: THE FIRST CLASS – Beach Baby – The Complete Recordings (3 CD set)

First-Class-front-cover-jpeg-min

Cherry Red [release date: 27.01.23] 1974, and the first pop single to be written by Shakespeare, ‘Beach Baby’, breaks into the US and UK charts. John Carter (not that one) was born John Shakespeare. A singer, songwriter and producer who … Continue reading

Album review : HOLOCAUST – Heavy Metal Mania – The Complete Recordings, Vol 1 1980-1984 (6 CDs)

HOLOCAUST – Heavy Metal Mania – The Complete Recordings, Vol 1 1980-1984 (6 CDs)

Cherry Red [Release date 27.01.23] Carrying the NWOBHM torch in Scotland since 1977, Edinburgh’s Holocaust are the genre’s archetypal survivors. They are almost literally the definition of “Metal bands who’ve flown under the radar their whole career”. Arguably, it was … Continue reading

Album review: CHRIS ROSANDER – The Monster Inside

chris rosander the monster inside

Pride & Joy Music [Release date 17.02.23] Chris Rosander released his debut album ‘King Of Hearts’ in 2020 on the now defunct AOR Heaven. As the pandemic put paid to any live plans, Chris Rosander started work on making more … Continue reading

Single review: FEENSTRA & SIMPSON – Your Eyes Gave You Away

FEENSTRA & SIMPSON - Your Eyes Gave You Away

YouTube A new songwriter outlet for GRTR! writer, radio presenter and promoter Pete Feenstra as he he teams up with John Simpson. No not the TV news reporter but the John Simpson who helped found the Feelgoods, a Dr Feelgood … Continue reading

Album review : TRAPEZE – Don’t Stop The Music – Complete Recordings Vol 1 1970-1992 (6 CD Boxset)

Trapeze_PurpleBox029-min-scaled

Cherry Red [Release date: 24.02.23] A cool, 6-CD boxset of high calibre Trapeze material. Three CDs of studio albums plus 3 CDs of live recordings, one as recent as 1992. CD1 : Trapeze (originally released 1970) The debut tends to … Continue reading

Album review: CASEY MAUNDER – Until Your Heart Stops Beating

CASEY MAUNDER - Until Your Heart Stops Beating

Website Once again the musical hand of fate plays a blinder as Casey Maunder sent his debut album in for possible review and boy is it a good one! Casey plays all the guitars, vocals, bass, keys and wrote all … Continue reading

Album review: ISSA – Lights Of Japan

issa lights

Frontiers [Release date: 20.01.23] Issa Oversveen is married to James Martin, ex of Vega. With his brother Tom, he’s written the bulk of the material here. And you can tell. Even with the best efforts of guitarist Simone Mularoni and … Continue reading