EP review: VERITY WHITE – Distilled

VERITY WHITE - Distilled

www.veritywhite.com [Release date 08.07.22]

Latest release from singer & songwriter Verity White who is joined by husband Alex White (guitar, synths, drums & sax). Musically Verity White draws her influences from the likes of Skunk Anansie, Paramore and electronica. Lyrically the EP scores highly as Verity bases them on own struggles with ADHD and mental health, along with an aim to bring people together and connect them through openness and hope.

As Verity explains, ‘We worked to find our new sound as a two-piece and to ‘distill’ our essence into it. We’re excited to be taking a more electronic route for this EP, something that we’ve always loved, and to blend this with the alt-rock riffs that we also adore.”

Six songs of which ‘Broken Promises’ stands out with an addictive indie rock hook, closely followed by ‘Another Angle’ where the guitar and electronica effects fuse to good effect. ‘Just Try It’ reminded me of All About Eve in the vocals. Again another good mix of guitar and electronics. ‘Road To Nowhere’ has some fine programmed backing musically tapping into Skunk Anansie.

Verity White has successfully changed her musical approach creating an intriguing mix of electronica with a dollop of indie guitar. ***

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

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Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: JOHN STEEL – Distorted Reality

Global Rock [Release date: 15.07.22]

This 3 album/double CD set from Ivan Stalev (John Steel) is quite a coup for SFM’s new metal/rock spinoff label, Global Rock.

Effectively, the package backs up the release of Steel’s new album, Distorted Reality, w/David Reece (Pink Cream 69/Voodoo Circle) on vocals, with his two previous releases: Freedom (2014), with Blaze (Wolfsbane/Iron Maiden) Bailey, and Everything Or Nothing (2017) featuring Doogie (Rainbow/Alcatrazz/Tank) White.

This new stuff is captivatingly  like the old stuff, when Maiden, Saxon and other NWOBH behemoths strode the Heavy Metal stage like they owned it.

Any student of the genre will tell you that lyrically and thematically, Steel’s songs fall into the “chaotic” category of heavy metal writing, where the subject matter is dark and doomy, and is dominated by extremes… ‘War’, ‘Evil Sky’, ‘Nightmare’, ‘Rise From The Dead’, and so on.

With Readman, he’s got a vocalist who sings like he means it, without leaning on the crutch of howls and wails. He wrings maximum emotion out of weighty songs like ‘Messiah’s Day’ and ‘Fallen Angel’. His scorched voice emoting like he’s lived every moment, while behind him, Steel’s axework bites and stings.

It’s clean, coherent, streamlined metal, and that’s a point worth emphasising. Too often, heavy metal bands clutter things up with a narrative whose ambitions far outreach their collective grasp, or musical arrangements that suffocate the songs.

That said, often, what first seems simple isn’t. And the fact that major tracks like ‘Women Of Ice’ and ‘Dante’s Retribution’ take time to reveal themselves means they’re not immediately lovable. But it’s the effort required to get there that counts, and that in itself is a large part of the payoff. ****

Review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Gig review: THE ROLLING STONES – British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 3 July 2022

THE ROLLING STONES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 3 July 2022

The Rolling Stones have become the first of the rock n roll generation to celebrate sixty years as a band, a remarkable achievement for music that many would originally have dismissed as a passing fad. Their legacy is secure, not just from a purely musical standpoint but also in establishing the business model of rock- they were the first band to realise the potency of large scale tours and the opportunities of merchandising, around that tongue logo, and indeed it was noticeable here quite how many people had band t-shirts compared to an average show.

When I saw them four years ago in Twickenham- both my own suburban neighbourhood and the area where they cut their teeth as a young live band- I assumed that might be a final chance to see them. But on atmosphere alone I couldn’t resist an opportunity to see them at Hyde Park, a fitting setting steeped in Stones history- notably a famous free show in 1969 after Brian Jones died, and more recently their 2013 appearance captured on DVD.

THE ROLLING STONES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 3 July 2022

Proof of their continuing appeal came in a crowd spanning right across the age ranges, often with different generations within the one family; and a supporting cast of current indie rock darlings, including Courtney Barnett and Sam Fender, the latter having many fans present.

As in 1969 this show was under the shadow of the loss of a founder Stones member in Charlie Watts. His passing was marked in an appropriately classy and unmawkish way with a montage of the drummer through the years immediately prior to the music, and Mick Jagger in his introductory remarks stating how they missed him and dedicating the show to his memory. But Steve Jordan, clad in a natty yellow turtle neck like a seventies motown act, certainly rose to the challenge of filling his irreplaceable shoes and fitted in seamlessly to the overall Stones sound.

THE ROLLING STONES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 3 July 2022

They opened with a pair of numbers from their earlier RnB days in ‘Get Off Of My Cloud’ and ‘19th Nervous Breakdown’, and the raucous singing along when it got to the choruses was a good sign for a show with atmosphere and the band were sprightly, even if the decibel level seemed a bit quiet.

At 79, Mick Jagger somehow defies time, his slender figure constantly running up and down an extended walkway in that characteristic loose limbed and snake hipped style. That inimitable voice has never been one of the greats technically, but the advantage is that he hasn’t needed to adapt its range over the years, and arguably age has given it added character.

THE ROLLING STONES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 3 July 2022

Either side of a couple of songs from their decadent early seventies years- ‘Tumbling  Dice’ with the horn section prominent,  and Keith Richards strumming an acoustic to the start of ‘Angie’ which saw the crowd swaying- ‘Out of Time’, more associated with Chris Farlowe’s cover was the nearest to a surprise in the set.

‘You Can’t Always Get What You Want’ saw the first real singalong (too much so from an overly excitable group of South Americans near me who chanted football-style while I was trying to hear Mick’s between song chat) and though solos of any length are not really part of the Stones repertoire, Ronnie Wood’s was excellent.

Particularly praiseworthy is that while there are certain songs they have to play, the Stones vary the setlist from night to night and for diehards that went to other shows, including the first Hyde Park show, there were quite a few changes.

Cheekily thanking a Nobel Prize winner for writing a song for them, their cover of ‘Like A Rolling Stone’ was excellent while ‘You Got Me Rocking’ brought things relatively up to date in convincing fashion before one of those classics that could not be omitted in ‘Honky Tonk Women’. The piano contributions of Chuck Leavell on this was just one example of how this expanded live line up gives the songs added depth.

THE ROLLING STONES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 3 July 2022

After each band member was called forward for their introduction, the last and loudest cheer was for Keith Richards, his weathered face seeming even more expressive and chracterful, even cartoonish, than usual.

With Mick taking his customary mid-set rest his ‘Glimmer Twin’ took on a couple of songs. ‘You Got the Silver’,  with he and Ronnie duetting on acoustic guitars, and ‘Happy’, accurately describing  his demeanour at this point-  with those characteristic interlocking guitars between him and Ronnie, in the latter’s case on lap steel.  He was also singing as well as I can remember, though I did get the impression over the set he was allowing his slightly younger guitar partner to do a lot of the heavy lifting.

On Mick’s return, the rest of the set was similar to those they have knocked off for the last 40 years,  beginning with an expanded ‘Miss You’ with funky danceable grooves and a jam that featured a solo slot from bassist Daryl Jones, then a burst of harmonica from Mick could only herald another nod to those R n B days in ‘Midnight Rambler’  and a long jam stopped and started several times.

THE ROLLING STONES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 3 July 2022

After the eastern style guitar intro to ‘Paint it Black’, ‘Start Me Up’ was not quite as well received as expected, while I had the horrible thought that when it became the Stones last top 10 single, we were nearer then to the Second World War than to 2022.

A dramatic video backdrop including footage of the carnage in Ukraine only gave ‘Gimme Shelter’ an even more dystopian feel and there was a great vocal duet on the catwalk between Mick and Sasha Allen, then one of the very best of those unmistakable Richards riffs powered ‘Jumping Jack Flash’.

There was still time for a couple more classics for the encores, taking the set to over 2 hours. Another spectacular visual backdrop led into ‘Sympathy For The Devil’ whose ‘whoo-hoohs’ are made for a large audience like this and likewise ‘Satisfaction’, where the band jammed out taking the applause, is a song it is hard not to shout along raucously to.

THE ROLLING STONES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 3 July 2022

These are songs that will live on long after the rest of us are gone. Yet while my gig going summer has taken in farewells actual (Kiss and Whitesnake) or hinted at (the Eagles), there was no suggestion this might be – to coin a phrase – the last time. As long as their remaining core members maintain their remarkable vibrancy, there is no reason why the Stones cannot continue and even hit another milestone.

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)


Interview: MARK MANGOLD

KEYS is a collaboration between keyboardist Mark Mangold (Touch, Drive, She Said, Michael Bolton, Cher, Paul Rogers and others) and singer Jake E (Cyhra, Amaranthe, and others).

Featuring live performances with three keyboardists and a huge battery of keyboards, this ambitious band brings keyboard and instrumental prowess to new heights while playing songs that run the gamut from scathing progressive melodic forays to catchy and melodic rock anthems featuring keyboards…and Jake’s award-winning voice (Burrn Vocalist of the year 2020).

We catch up with Mark Mangold for a chat…

How did KEYS come together?

Jake and I met when his band Cyhra needed a place to stay and record in 2019 in New York, which turned out to be in my studio. We collaborated on a song for the Cyhra album and decided to record the KEYS album. I presented some songs to him, and we started recording when I was in Stockholm, and he was in Gothenburg. A lot of Facetiming and long-distance sessions. I love Jake’s voice and his huge range, emotion and resonance. The Keys songs needed to sail…and also be emotional and intense…which Jake brought to the band. I’m honored he got involved.

With your pedigree in rock/melodic rock, some of that heartfelt sound & catchiness can definitely be witnessed – even within the largely Prog sound of the KEYS album, how would you say your own style of playing and writing has changed & developed over the years?

Of course, in my delusional world, it is the same as when I was 19, haha. Guess you haven’t heard some of that stuff.  Always trying to be a bit different and be open to instinct and whatever comes next. It’s about trying to create moments…and sometimes the goal is to try to come up with an amazing verse and memorable chorus. Other times it’s about trying to shock and think of a new melody or chase a “sound” that you hear in your head, making a right turn rather than a left turn…jumping off a cliff into something…opening up the head to shed limitation, if possible. Some of the songs came in dreams, and my studio is in the next room, so I would jump in and get it down before it disappeared. Of course, now with the huge things available to keyboard players, the pallet is bigger…which is a lot of fun and less restrictive.

In the old days, we played with monophonic instruments…and with each invention or new instrument created, we were able to do new things. Of course, I’m a sucker for Hammond organ and synths. Sometimes the sound totally dictates what you do and what you play. But bottom line, it’s simply about conveying…sharing… emotion…whatever that may be…from joy to anger…in some way, and these days…there’s a lot of it. Having said that, we did do a song called “Goodtimes”, which some folks have said is one of the best AOR songs I’ve written…but it’s with Keys, so it may take a second to realize that…it ain’t prog haha. A different approach to a song that, if played in the “same old way”, may possibly have come off as generic and like the 10,000 other bands out there chasing the 80’s. But it’s been given a different approach…I think most notably the lack of guitars. Who knows? You tell me, haha.

With such a storied career, how do you stay motivated and creative, and how did you cope during the pandemic, was it a more or less creative period for you?

Thank you. Staying motivated doesn’t seem to be a problem…it’s an obsession! Like that old title “Difficult to Cure” by Rainbow, but then again, who wants to. Yes, we did KEYS during the pandemic, not so much as a result of it but more despite it. It was a very creative time for a lot of people…and exploring new territory, keeping Jake’s voice in mind, was nice. I wanted to scathe…like all these scathing guitarists so in vogue these days…but on keyboards. I think the keyboards bring a new sound and feel to it…and sometimes it just all sounds the same. Looking for something new, new and different lines, phrases, etc. Also, fun exploring some of the new things available so a keyboard can sound like a guitar…as I am also a frustrated guitar player…in my mind, haha…so I’m super happy to have that available now. It used to be a Hammond through a Marshall amp, but now…we can get much closer.

What other projects are you currently working on?

Of course, we finished the Touch album last year and still releasing videos and singles off of that. So nice to be working with those guys again. But that’s a different story haha. Also, by the way, I just finished recording the new House Of Lords with the wonderful James Christian. It will be out in September on Frontiers. That was a lot of fun, and so happy it developed from a song…and submitting some ideas to James…to playing keys on the album and doing quite a bit of writing for it as well.

Can you recommend a band we should be listening to, a book we should be reading or a TV show we should be watching right now – something that you have enjoyed?

Hmmm…of course I dig Cyhra in a big way at the moment…but in terms of books or TV…not so much. Scouring the wasteland of Netflix and Amazon is fun…but nothing, in particular, to recommend that people are probably not already aware of.

Do you have any plans to tour with KEYS?

We indeed are hoping to play. Jake and I are touring animals…though, with the current situation, it’s a hard thing to put together. The band will have three keyboard players…stacks of keyboards…a great drummer (probably Alex Landenburg), and Jake holding it all together. It’s gotta be spectacular…haha. Maniacal…like the record. And though we are all so hopeful, it’s about staying healthy…and seeing so many bands cancelling dates now is again discouraging. This sht has not disappeared…tragically and sadly.

Any message for your fans?

A huge thank you for listening and allowing me to continue doing this. I hope the word spreads on KEYS…It is not “generic”…a word and style I try to avoid at all cost…but as in the days when we were creating the origins of our music…ie. the 60s, 70s and 80s, we were trying to be original, and find signature style and sound, and that is the mentality of this band. Imagine what it was like to be 16 or whatever…and hear Led Zeppelin for the first time…or Yes…or Jimmy Hendrix…or for that matter, “Hound Dog” by Elvis or “Who Do You Love” by Bo Diddley…I’ll include the Beatles out of respect haha. Truly WTF moments that stay with you for a lifetime. That’s the mentality here. A worthy goal that can also crash and burn violently…so we wait for the response…and that’s when our fans come in.

Video for RIP

Keys album is Out Now : Keys ‘Keys’ (cargorecordsdirect.co.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: TRACTOR – Tractor 50th Anniversary Edition (red vinyl)

Tractor 50th

Ozit /Morpheus Records [Release date 01.07.22]

Previously reissued by Ozit as a CD to mark the album’s 30th anniversary, The 50th anniversary of ‘Tractor’ is given a 3 sided, double-set on red vinyl release, contextualised by a pictorial collage with relevant quotes.

And if long time fans might have expected more than just the 2 bonus tracks to fill the empty side 4 and could have done with an inserted lyric sheet, it’s great to see this psychedelic classic back on vinyl.

It remains an exemplar of timeless heavy Brit psych/prog rock, counterweighted by lighter acoustic pieces.

The John Peel championed band hail from Rochdale and feature Steve Clayton on drums/percussion, piano and some bass, Jim Milne on all other guitars and vocals, guest Dave Addison on some bass, alongside John Brierley who frames the album’s inspired jamming, intensity dynamics with an expansive production.

Tractor’s style is encapsulated by the opening track ‘All Ends Up’ with its piecing whistled opening, echo reverb, heavy droned fuzz guitar and snarled vocals, which evokes an era dominated by the likes of Edgar Broughton, Hawkwind and Pink Floyd.

Much like the early Broughton’s Tractor carry an anti establishment message, as on ‘All Ends Up’: “They’ll sign your life away, don’t let the man in the grey suit deceive you, once you’re in you’ll stay…..”

The track quickly ushers in portentous sounding psychedelic riffs and pounding drums – an impressive layered sound for a duo – which gives drummer Steve Clayton plenty of room for Nick Mason style drum patterns and rolls.

They add eerie backing vocals and a slight change of tempo to add to the nightmarish intensity. And just when you think they are fading into the ether they return with a stereo-panned drone synth sound (actually Milne’s buzz guitar), which sounds as if they just were experimenting with the studio’s sonic potential, before one final burst of buzz guitar.

‘Little Girl in Yellow’ offers a sudden tempo change, with guitar and bass double lines, as they embark on a trip (pun intended) on their “goblin ship.”

The fierce riffing and incendiary jamming reaches a bursting point at 13.30 marks. Milne launches himself into some outer worldly guitar playing which producer Brierley neatly brings to the front of the mix to finish the track.

By contract, ‘The Watcher’ is exercise in simplicity and sonic clarity with its acoustic wash, while ‘Ravenscroft’s 13 Bar Boogie’ lives up to its name as the duo tear things up on a live outing.

‘Shubunkin’ owes much to Man’s ‘The Storm’ in particular, and Steve Miller and Hawkwind in general, all of whom were significant at the time.

Milne’s wah-wah and fazed layering over Clayton extravagant drum patterns underpin a salient motif which gives the track a memorable link function, before another change in mood and dynamics on ‘Hope In Favour’.

Sometimes the heavy intensity of the time cries out for a lighter touch which they belatedly deliver on the final bonus track.

That said, there’s so much going on here from the massive guitar layering to the intermittent, intricate bv’s to satisfy all heavy “underground” rock fans.

The acoustic intro to the hymnal ballad ‘Everytime It Happens’ initially evokes early Dave Brock, but evolves into a beautifully woven track with such vocal clarity and subtle echo, that you can almost forgive the harsh buzz guitar tone.

50 years after its initial release, this album still sound innovative, challenging and exciting and is only dated by the studio trickery of the time. Unencumbered by commercial restraints, the music cleverly evokes the poetic lyrics that reach beyond restrictive labels.

‘Everytime It Happens’ is an articulate highlight and gives us glimpse of what might have been, had they not been so committed to the musical ideals of the time.

‘Make The Journey’ has an early Floyd feel, with neat harmonies until an avalanche of fuzz guitar and bone crunching drums fill the track full of bombast.

The electronic sounding percussion was years ahead its time, while the vocal collage was closer to the early 70’s template. The track careers towards a tension busting resolution, much akin to a steam train coming off the rails, though you get the feeling they know exactly what they are doing.

The first bonus track ‘Revolution Man’ is a well chosen acoustic book-end, while the closing introspective ‘Northern City’ comes from the band’s previous incarnation as ‘The Way We Live’ and features Dave Addison on bass.

It’s a name that perfectly sums up the band’s music, which is intense, inspired, spontaneous and timeless.

The final clean toned bluesy guitar solo, accompanying husky bass line and impassioned vocal is a reminder that under all the layered bluster is an articulate duo and an album that continues to enchant rock fans a full 50 years after its recording. ****

Review by Pete Feenstra


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: THE KUT – GRIT

THE KUT - GRIT

Criminal Records [Release date 08.07.22]

“The Kut” is essentially the band’s songwriter and vocalist Maha and ‘Grit’ is the second album.  The barometer is set somewhere between the American rock and roll of The Runaways, the post-punk attitude of Girlschool, and a more angsty Paramore.

The Kut has certainly got the image and all the tunes are catchy and will go down well played live with no doubt 50-something males jostling for a pole position near the stage.

Opening song ‘Animo’ has won awards and – with songs like ‘Burn Your Bridges’ and ‘If Looks Could Kill’ – demonstrates that the only real limitation here is the lack of real guitar heft.  The Kut does the heavy lifting but maybe a second guitarist would be useful.

Also, whilst “The Kut” is very much centre stage sufficient exposure should be given to her other band members which make up this all-girl outfit.

Overall, this is a spirited offering and  a triumph considering the issues surrounding the debut release (‘Valley Of Thorns’ 2018) when the crowd-funding Pledge Music went bust and 70 per cent of funding disappeared.

This time round the album recording has been funded by Arts Council England and with the right breaks The Kut could gain, er, kut-through.  And it will make old men very happy.  ****

Review by David Randall

Tue 12th HMV Portsmouth * 4.30pm
Wed 13th FOPP London * 3pm
Thur 14th HMV Oxford * 5pm
*In-Store Acoustic
GRIT TOUR JULY ’22
Thur 21st SOUTHAMPTON Joiners
Fri 22nd LONDON Notting Hill Arts Club
Sat 23rd BATH Moles
Tue 26th WORCESTER Drummonds
Wed 27th CHESTER Live Rooms
Thur 28th LANCASTER Bobbin
Fri 29th EDINBURGH Bannermans
Sat 30th NEWCASTLE Trillians
Sun 31st HULL O’Rileys


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: DAVID PAICH – Forgotten Toys

DAVID PAICH - Forgotten Toys

The Players Club/Mascot [Release date 19.08.22]

The first thing to say about this, the first solo “album” from the long-serving Toto keyboard player, it’s very short and it’s very Toto.  By using band-mates Joseph Williams (vocals, co-producer/writer) and Steve Lukather the latter is perhaps inevitable but the former is frustrating.

I know I grew up with vinyl and 15 minutes a side (and then witnessed the current revival) but since the mid-eighties we’ve come to expect at least 50 minutes!

The first single ‘Spirit Of The Moonrise’ is one of the best tracks of 2022 with the stellar vocals of Michael McDonald adding a certain out of this world quality and Luke playing some of his very best guitar which perfectly suits the tune.

‘willibelongtoyou’ (yes, all lowercase) is also cast in that same stellar mode but the rest is sadly a little perfunctory.  ’First Time’ reminds of Police and ‘Every Breath You Take’ and is a bit dirgey to be honest whilst ‘Queen Charade’ is standard rock n’ roll fare.  ‘All The Tears That Shine’ is attractive but nothing more than that.

Solo albums offer an artist the ability to stretch out and explore influences and passions that they maybe couldn’t in the context of their regular band.  But ‘Forgotten Toys’ isn’t long enough to achieve this and therefore needs to be more consistent.

There is a saying “all killer, no filler’.  If you make an album barely touching 30 minutes this aphorism has to apply.

I understand that given Paich’s commitments as an ace sessionist and not least with Toto some of these tunes may have been whirling around for some time (hence the album title).

Two instrumentals book-end the album, the short opener ‘Forward’ whilst ‘Lucy’ displays Paich’s  jazz muso credentials, reflecting his work with Miles Davis and Ray Charles amongst many others.

The promise of that early single sadly remains unfulfilled.  ***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)


Gig review: CORNBURY Music Festival – The Great Tew Park, Oxfordshire, 8-10 July 2022

Friday 8 July

So good to be back at Cornbury as it has been three long years since the last one. Sadly this year’s is billed as the Last Hurrah, although the organiser Hugh has said that before…

Tears in the old eyes as I entered the festival site. Just so good to see people enjoying themselves and the sunny weather certainly helps.

Those camping have spectacular views of the rolling Oxfordshire countryside. Not for this intrepid reviewer though as Cub Scouts gave me more than enough experience of camping.

Amy Montgomery had the tough task to open the main stage. Backed by a four piece band dressed in white, Amy Montgomery is all you want from a festival opener – lively tunes and an energetic stage presence.

Amy Montgomery, CORNBURY Music Festival - The Great Tew Park, Oxfordshire, 8 July 2022

Pretty rocking set which got a good reception from the crowd. Adding a well known cover to your set always helps. In Amy’s case she ripped through a rocked up version of Donna Summer classic ‘I Feel Love’. Impressive stuff and the first Cornbury discovery to win me over.

Stone Foundation added a little bit of late afternoon funk and soul over on the Songbird stage. Enjoyable hour spent listening to their mainly self penned set of songs. They added a bit of punch with a live horns section – no backing tracks for these guys. They have been around since the late 90s and it shows in their slick set which got a rousing reception from the crowd.

Food and drink are always a key element of any festival. Cornbury has a good range, including Waitrose which is hardly surprising as the festival is sometimes known as Poshstock! Caffè Nero is always a welcome treat and they also host a number of artists in their tent throughout the weekend.

The Shires are a Cornbury staple having appeared here in 2019 and 2016. Plugging a new album the lead single ‘I See Stars’ has a nice bit of country pop bite. ‘All Over Again’ is another good summery afternoon tune and their country pop proves ever popular with the crowd.

The Darkness - CORNBURY Music Festival - The Great Tew Park, Oxfordshire, 8 July 2022

Strange seeing The Darkness take to the stage in daylight and at the early time of seven thirty. Kicking off with ‘Growing On Me’, Justin Hawkins and his band mates seemed set on a whistle stop tour through their greatest hits in the hour allotted to them.

‘One Way Ticket’ was next with bassist Frankie Poullin on cowbell. First of their set’s covers came next with The Darkness take on the Radiohead classic ‘Fade Out (Street Spirit)’. Back to their debut album for a trio of classics – ‘Givin Up’, ‘Love Is Only A Feeling’ and ‘Friday Night’. Justin Hawkins is the consummate rock n roll front man romping around the stage, playing guitar solos and hitting those high notes.

Newer songs next with ‘Heart Explodes’, one of their better recent tunes, and ‘Solid Gold’. The latter may have seen a dip in the crowds enthusiasm but that was quickly restored by ‘Get Your Hands Off My Woman’.

The Darkness know the festival trick, keep to the more well known songs and interact with the crowd as much as possible. Speaking of audience participation ‘I Believe In A Thing Called Love’ had the Cornbury crowd clapping, dancing and bouncing about.

The Darkness - CORNBURY Music Festival - The Great Tew Park, Oxfordshire, 8 July 2022

No encore so in true Darkness style we had a Christmas medley starting off with their seasonal hit ‘Christmas Time’, followed by a crowd sing a long to the Wham! classic ‘Last Christmas’ and finishing with a bit of Cliff Richard. Possibly a strange way to end a set on a sunny July evening but they pulled it off.

Magic Numbers - CORNBURY Music Festival - The Great Tew Park, Oxfordshire, 8 July 2022

After all that rock n roll fun the Magic Numbers bring things down a bit tempo wise headlining the Songbird stage. Plagued by a few sound issues early on in their set they soon hit their musical stride. Their jangly guitar and beautiful harmony vocals are a perfect way to enjoy Friday evening at Cornbury.

I think it’s safe to say that we had a pretty fantastic final weekend. Thank God for the weather and huge thanks to you all for your support.

Thank you for all the hundreds of kind messages you’ve sent – they are all very much appreciated. With your help we’ve been able to create a rather unique little event that we’ve all come to love. After a two year absence it was really lovely to be reunited with my very special team and to have one more opportunity to produce this festival for you.

I’m afraid this was definitely the final Cornbury Festival. You never know, we may see you somewhere down the road, but in the meantime please take good care of yourselves.

Hugh Phillimore

Saturday 9 July

Sunshine is out again for the Saturday of Cornbury’s Final Hurrah.

Toby Lee wows the Songbird stage with his blues guitar playing. He’s been mentioned as a future blues star by Joe Bonamasa and judging by this afternoon’s performance he’s definitely a musician to keep tabs on. Soulful playing and singing one minute, then ripping it up on a frenzied solo. Impressive start to today’s musical treats.

Reggae with a touch of ska on a sunny afternoon always goes well, so Captain Accident & the Disasters are onto a winner from the off. Not this reviewers musical bag but they are good and a pleasant way to spend an hour in the sunshine.

Beans On Toast sets the world to rights with his positive take on the negativity world around us. Done in an almost rap style at times, he adds a bit of the here and now to the festival.

The Caffè Nero tent always has a few treats including the (mainly) covers by the lively young three piece Molotovs. Bashing through the likes Teenage Kicks, C’Mon Everybody, Suffragette City and Anarchy In The UK, Molotovs are a cracking covers band. They have that raw, punk rock spirit which was great to see and hear. One for any upcoming punk and alt rock festival methinks.

The Molotovs - CORNBURY Music Festival - The Great Tew Park, Oxfordshire, 9 July 2022

Andy Fairweather-Low sounds pretty darn fine in the evening sun and attracts one of the biggest crowds of the weekend at the Songbird stage. Wheeling out the 60s hits from Amen Corner – the band he helped found – ‘Bend Me, Shape Me’ and ‘If Paradise Half As Nice’ – sealed the deal as far as the crowd were concerned. He may not play live that often but when he does get along and see him.

The Waterboys played to a packed main arena. One tiny gripe has to be the sheer number of chairs, which often lie forlorn and abandoned when an artist is one the stage. Chair manufacturers will be posting bumper profits this year based on Cornbury alone…

Anyway, back to the music where The Waterboys had played arguably their most famous song, ‘Whole of the Moon’ fourth song in. A brave move possibly? Not for Mike Scott and the boys as they have musical class and treats galore. A classic like ‘Fisherman’s Blues’ sits nicely with a newer song ‘Blackberry Girl’.

Good to see saxophonist Anthony Thistle Thwaite back in the band, who have had over seventy members pass through their ranks to date.

The Waterboys played a good set, however, they seemed to lack that extra bit of sparkle I was hoping for from their set.

Saturday night’s headliner Bryan Adams is in the middle of a series of outdoor concerts and he’s a perfect festival headliner with his catalogue of well-known classics. Having said that after the recorded John Cleese intro Bryan launched into a newer one ‘Kick Ass’. A perfect rocker to launch the crowd off into an almost non-stop night of singing and dancing.

Rolling out some of the big guns song wise early with ‘Can’t Stop This Thing We Started’ and ‘Somebody’. The set did nearly come to a premature halt due to sound issues but luckily these were soon sorted.

Bryan Adams - CORNBURY Music Festival - The Great Tew Park, Oxfordshire, 9 July 2022

‘Shine A Ligh’t, then ‘Heaven’ kept the momentum going with one of his best newer tunes, ‘Go Down Rockin’g giving guitarist Keith Scott a chance to take the limelight.

Those hits keep on coming with’ It’s Only Love’, sadly no Tina Turner despite Bryan Adams teasing she was just off stage waiting to come on.

The acoustic interlude of ‘Here I Am’ and ‘When You’re Gone’ may have seen a slight dip in audience participation, but the number one hit ‘Everything I D’o had the Cornbury choir in full voice.

The rocking was back with ‘Back To You’ and those familiar chords that ushered in ‘Summer Of 69′. Serious amounts of air guitarists and dad dancers to be seen!

Bryan Adams - CORNBURY Music Festival - The Great Tew Park, Oxfordshire, 9 July 2022

‘Cuts Like A Knife’ closed the set before we had an encore of ‘Run To You’ and ‘All For Love’. He’s still got that magic and enthusiasm he had when I first saw him live way back in 1988.

Jason Ritchie chatted to local musician Tom Webber at Cornbury

www.tomwebbermusic.com

Sunday 10 July

The final day of this year’s Cornbury and indeed the last ever Cornbury, so a day tinged with sadness but many happy musical memories.

High noon start for Didcot’s rising star Tom Webber, who was fresh from supporting Tom Jones on Friday and Readipop Festival yesterday.

Nick Lowe cover and the wonderful song that is ‘Martha’ were stand outs in a set that definitely saw him win over even more new fans. Closing a short half hour set with new song, ‘I’m Yours’, he got the crowd joining in on the chorus. He’s growing in stage presence and confidence each time I see him. Next festival season he will be higher up the bills that’s a given.

Altered Images get the Cornbury crowd going on the hottest afternoon yet of the weekend. How can you not like an upbeat 80s banger like ‘I Could Be Happy’? Yes indeed, Clare Grogan is in fine form and even better news is that there is a new Altered Images album on the horizon…a mere thirty eight years since the last one!

‘Insects’ she dedicated to John Peel who gave Altered Images their big break. From the old to the new with ‘Glittterball’, a nifty little pop number.

Only one song could close the set, ‘Happy Birthday’, which made a couple of birthday celebrants in the crowd happy having their names read out by Clare.

A poptastic way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon.

Staks with their soulful R&B are a prefect fit for a sunny Sunday afternoon and they are a top notch set of musicians including drummer Mike Sturgis (21 Guns, Adrian Smith).  FM’s Steve Overland duetting with Madeline Bell on ‘You Keep Me Hanging On’. That’s a pretty perfect match right there.

Staks played the first Cornbury, with a couple in between and it was fitting that they made it to the main stage on the final day of the festival. What a treat too for both the band and the crowd to have Steve Winwood on for a short set. One of the weekend’s real wow moments.

One of the band’s founding members Louise Marshall came on for a soulful take on Creedence Clearwater Revival’s ‘Proud Mary’ (also made famous by Tina Turner), before she introduced a proper musical legend. The word legendary is bandied around a lot and not always with good reason, however, Steve Winwood is a true music legend.

His own hit ‘Higher Love’ proved a hit with the crowd as you’d expect, yet it was his heartfelt rendition of ‘Whiter Shade Of Pale’ dedicated to Gary Brooker that stole the set. He still has those wonderful vocals. Those distinctive organ notes ushered in ‘Gimme Some Lovin’, a song that still sounds great all these years later.

Ronan Keating is not normally an artist I would listen to but fair play to him as he did a crowd pleasing set and what a festival is all about, singing along and enjoying the music.

Singing along is easy as he does many standards such as Cat Stevens’ ‘Father and Son’, Billy Ocean’s ‘When The Going Gets Tough’ and ‘Brown Eyed Girl’. Even Boyzone’s ‘No Matter What’ had this old rocker tapping his feet along to the music. He really enjoyed himself  being so happy to be back on stage having originally been booked for 2020′s festival.

Final band of the weekend for this reviewer saw a second time this year seeing The Christians. They took to stage half an hour later at eight as Ronan Keating had extended his set by half an hour, something singer Garry Christian joked about at the start of their set.

Keeping to the hits in their one hour set we had ‘Ideal World’, ‘Born Again’, ‘Forgotten Town’ and ‘When the Fingers Point’. They are spot on with the vocal harmonies and musicianship, which is some feat on such a hot evening.

A great idea to include the Beatles classic ‘Here Comes the Sun’ which Garry Christian dedicated to George Harrison, who he said was one of his all time favourite songwriters. Totally agree with that sentiment.

It seemed an all too brief set as after ‘Hooverille’ they closed  with The Isley Brothers cover ‘Harvest For The World’. One of the many Cornbury highlights this weekend and a prefect musical high to finish on.

If this indeed was the final Cornbury (rumours that it may comeback next year but at a different location & organisers) they went out on a high. One of the best music festivals I have had the pleasure of attending. Well organised, friendly staff on site, reasonably priced on the whole and above all a good mix of music.

Cornbury you will be missed, please come back soon…

Review by Jason Ritchie
Photos by Dave Grant


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 UK SUBS – Yellow Leader

Cherry Red [release date 8.07.22]

And they said it wouldn’t last… back in print for the first time in 7 years, The UK Subs 25th studio release gets a coloured vinyl makeover. Yellow Leader 2022 is an 18 track double album in red and turqoise, housed in a gatefold sleeve, now including the 4 tracks cut from the original vinyl release.
It’s the third in a trio of pumped vinyl reissues… Work In Progress and XXIV were reissued earlier in the year.

If it were needed, Yellow Leader confirms that the ‘Subs still deliver, nearly 40 years since start up. This late in their career, few bands can stir up the motivation that ignites the fire. And that’s what’s needed to land blow after blow of hard hitting, hi energy punk rock like the ‘Subs do on this album.

Pat (Vibrators) Collier’s production gets the exposure it deserves on this expanded vinyl reissue. Exhuberant and modern, it channels the spirit of the DIY seventies while creating a suitably widescreen backdrop for the band’s undeniable songcraft.

The result is a huge sound that never undercuts the raw savagery of songs like ‘Artificial’, ‘Sin City Blues’ or ‘Deconstruct’ – which doesn’t just chew the scenery, but annihilates it in a minute and a half.

For this album, the band was: ever present founder, Charlie Harper; Alvin Gibbs (who’s been in and out a few times); Jet (phenomenal guitarist) and Jamie Oliver (not that one).

Over the years, it’s noticeable that they’ve added layers of hard rock here and there. The boiling hard rock of ‘Chemical’ and ‘Prime Evil’ are as close to the mainstream as the Subs are probably ever going to get. Both songs swagger and rage as Harper spits out a stream of barbed lyrics, tempered only by Jet’s sublimely melodic guitarwork.

And who’d ever have thought that the punk rock poetry in song titles, like ‘Bordeaux Red’, ‘Sick Velveteen’ and ‘Feed The Whore’ would be fighting it out with the sharp edged metaphors of ‘Rebellion Song’ and ‘Suicidal Girl’.
Primetime Subs, no question.

Completists should again note the restoration of the full 18 tracks, and a suitably splendid rendition of Lichtenstein’s striking cover artwork, in full colour. ****

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)


Book review: Phil Collins in the 1980s by Andrew Wild

Phil Collins in The Eighties by Andrew Wild

SonicBond Publishing [Publication date 30.06.22]

Love him or hate him, there was no getting away from Phil Collins in the 1980’s. Whether it be as a mega successful solo artist, the massive high that Genesis were on, being a great train robber (Collins did a rather good job of playing Great Train Robber Buster Edwards ion 1988 film “Buster”) or that transatlantic Live Aid stunt, he was everywhere. Oh, he also made an appearance in the TV show that summed up the entire 80’s for me – Miami Vice.

Luckily for me, I was a huge fan of all the above and I am not the only one, as the stats speak for themselves.

Nobody had more US top 40 records in the 80’s then him (14 solo and 11 with Genesis),  plus 2 US number 1 albums, whilst in the UK that figure was a staggering 8 number 1 albums and a combined 25 hit singles.

Those are incredible numbers and are unlikely to ever be bettered in a single decade. Add to that numerous guest appearances and collaborations, plus tours with both Robert Plant and Eric Clapton and you begin to get a fuller picture of Collins’ incredible career.

Author Andrew Wild has managed to capture the entire decade in new book “Phil Collins in The 1980s”, and just about every fact and bit of information that you could require can be found within it pages, in fact I do not believe that he has missed a thing as this is just about as thorough and comprehensive as it could be. ****

Review by Nikk Gunns


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review: AMONGST LIARS – S/T

AMONGST LIARS

Website [Release date 08.07.22]

Formed the end of 2019, Amongst Liars are a 4 piece from Eastbourne/Brighton. They released their first single ‘Over and Over’ in February 2020, at just about the worst time to launch a new band, but that gave the band plenty of time to write and writing they have been.

So with their debut album about to be released, there’s talk of an acoustic EP to follow and plans to record another album in December. This self-titled debut album was produced by David Radahd-Jones (Heaven’s Basement, The Fallen State).

On the new album, the band comment:

“Our self-titled debut album is a commentary on the world we currently live in, …. But the message of the album is one of positivity and empowerment. There are a lot of inequities in this world, but people can and do get strength and take control, through challenging and standing up to abusers, politicians and general wrong doers.”

From the opening track, “Cut It” with its heavy bass line, and hard hitting lyrics, “this violence bleeds silence”, you can hear the underlying influences of Royal Blood, Queens of the Stone Age but that just shows the talent these boys have. Instantly sounding familiar yet totally unique, this a band with a message to share! Their lyrics reflect on modern life, tackling issues such as mental health, homelessness, fake news and government failings.

The latest track to be released is “The Reign” which is pure rock class, vocalist, Ian George talks about their inspiration:

“The message of ‘Reign’ is that too many people get lost in narcissism and social media, building themselves up only to self sabotage and burn it all down. The lyric ‘all these gods and social demons, self promoting instant fame, whilst choking on the smoke they pour’ paved the way for the video.”

By the time, I have got to the ballad ‘Drown’, I’m completely sold. For a debut album the band have an established style and polished sound by far defying their relative newness, can’t wait to hear more!

The closing track ‘Without Grace’ has a sublime heavy bass line riff and it leaves you wanting more.

This album has been added to my pick of albums of 2022, what a debut!

They have played Breaking Bands, Love Rocks and Wildfire festivals and have more live dates to support the release of this debut album. Having caught them at Breaking Bands they are as impressive live as this debut album is. This is one band to watch out for!  ****

Review by Karen Clayton

Get Ready to ROCK! - The Best of 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)


Gig review: EAGLES – British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

In a week that saw performances from the most legendary names in British rock history- Paul McCartney at Glastonbury, Queen’s residency at the O2 and Elton John and the Stones on the preceding two nights in Hyde Park – it was the turn of an American classic in the Eagles to headline the Sunday of the first weekend of the British Summer Time series of shows.

Though their recorded body of work is relatively slim, there is an argument that the quality of the Eagles material makes them the greatest American band of the classic rock era, in the way they combined country, folk and rock to create a quintessentially American sound with vocal harmonies and slick musicianship.

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

A planned Wembley Stadium show playing ‘Hotel California’ in full with the added help of a choir and orchestra was postponed then cancelled as a result of the pandemic, but this show reverted to the tried and tested Greatest Hits, in a similar fashion to their 2019 Wembley show.

While disappointing for diehards hoping to hear something different and rare renditions of the ‘Last Resort’ and ‘Try and Love Again’, it was surely the right option for a laid back festival crowd basking in almost Californian sunshine, particularly as 2022 marks  50 years since the first album. Encouragingly it was an all-age crowd and not only the boomer generation.

As per the usual BST format, there was quite a large supporting cast of bands around the site and on the main stage, including two name acts, beginning with Little Big Town. Given the early Eagles sound and the presence of the great ‘Whispering’ Bob Harris in the crowd, it was appropriate that a country act supported- albeit one that have always crossed over into classic rock and pop influences. Indeed when my then American family members introduced them to me in the late 2000s they were likened to a countrified Fleetwood Mac.

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

On opener  ‘Next to You’, and indeed most of the best moments of the set, the close vocal harmonies  of the four band members were distinctly Eagles-esque, though the bulk of the songs were sung by individual band members. Karen Fairchild and Kimberley Rhoads – both glamorously dolled up to the nines as if they were leading an eighties-themed hen party -  handled the majority, with the Taylor Swift-penned ‘Better Man’ standing out. However there were  also lead vocal slots for their male bandmates  Phillip Sweet on ‘Hell Yeah’ (considerably more downbeat and  less rabble rousing than the title suggests) and Jimi Westbrook on the bro country sounding ‘ Wine Beer Whiskey’.

They were charismatic showmen and used the full width of the stage to work the crowd. Their backing band were also very tight, with some excellent countrified guitar work from Evan Weatherford , as shown on the swampy grooves of  ‘Stay All Night’, though I found the material (the Jimmy Buffett like ‘Pontoon’ a case in point) a little more superficial than I’d remembered from following those earlier days. The only song from that period, ‘Boondocks’ closed the set with more of those great harmonies and typical country  lyrics celebrating the simple pleasures of God fearing rural communities.

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

On this week of legends the main support was another bona fide rock god in Robert Plant, bringing his partnership with Alison Krauss  back to the UK for the first time since the two resumed their partnership to make last year’s ‘Raise the Roof’ album. I only half jokingly turned to my partner and said ‘stand by for some weird stuff’ knowing the Led Zep frontman’s restless quest to bring all manner of musical influences into the spotlight meant this would be no classic rock nostalgia trip.

In this case, as on their albums, it was to explore traditional American musical forms ranging from bluegrass to acoustic blues to the birth of rock’n’roll. Though his singing partner rather lacked stage presence, motionless with a rather fixed expression, her voice intertwined quite beautifully with his, sometimes singing in harmony such as on openers ‘Rich Woman’ and ‘Can’t Let Go’ but at other times with one or other taking the lead- Robert on ‘Fortune Teller’ and  Alison on ‘Trouble With My Lover’.

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

Clad in an electric blue cowboy shirt, the former moved slightly deliberately and gingerly but his voice had perfect pitch, projection and intonation and was an object lesson to other singers of his generation as to how to grow older with credibility.

The two were backed by a band of crack musicians from different parts of the USA, with the star of the show multi instrumentalist Stuart Duncan. Indeed when he picked up a fiddle we were entertained to a bluegrass-fied version of Rock and Roll, which somehow worked perfectly.

‘Please Read the Letter’ with Robert’s delicate delivery enlivened by Alison’s own fiddle playing, was a particular personal favourite.  After a series of songs, most from their two albums together and including a couple of old Everley Bros songs in ‘The Price of Love’ and ‘Gone Gone Gone’ came a perfect climax to a set of just over an hour.

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

With mandolin playing and folky vocal harmonising ‘The Battle of Evermore’ was without doubt a most suitable Zeppelin song to adapt for this format, and the crowd spontaneously clapped along to the ‘bring it back’ passage. Twin fiddles then reinterpreted another Led Zep IV classic in ‘When the Levee Breaks’, the more restrained arrangement rendering Robert Plant’s vocals crystal clear.

This pair of songs was a perfect way to nod to his illustrious past while respecting his current musical integrity. At the end he modestly said ‘thanks for tuning in’ but he undersold a wonderful performance which perfectly suited this mellow, gentle early summer’s evening.

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

It struck me how the Eagles performance inverted all the received wisdom as to how to make a stadium sized show work. 15 minutes before the scheduled set time and with no fanfare of any description they sauntered onstage, opening with ‘Seven Bridges Road’ to show how those multi-part vocal harmonies are as tight as ever.

Then during ‘One Of These Nights’, as I craned my neck to see where those falsetto ad libs were coming from, I mused at a band with an already introverted stage presence (Joe Walsh aside) having their sole founder member and nearest to a recognised frontman spending some of the time behind a drumkit at the back.  However this meant that, other than some spectacular and evocative backdrops of sunsets and deserts, the music spoke for itself, and how. . .

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

Adding Vince Gill to the line up has been a master stroke, as his smooth, mellifluous voice suited perfectly a series of songs originally sung by Glenn Frey or Randy Meisner – ‘New Kid in Town’, ‘Take It To The Limit’, ‘Lying Eyes’ and ‘Tequila Sunrise’. He was well supported by those harmonies and finely detailed country style guitar playing from the stooped figure of Steuart Smith- surely overdue elevation to full eagle status after over 20 years as their touring guitarist?

Don Henley, who stepped forward for ‘Witchy Woman’ and later a beautiful ‘Best Of My Love’ showed his bone dry humour on his intros and there were a feast of memories he could draw upon including recording their first album at Olympic Studios in Barnes (not strictly accurately described as being outside  London) at the time of a coal strike.

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

For a while Joe Walsh had seemed almost superfluous, but burst into life on ‘In The City’ both with his singing and one of those underrated, original guitar solos.  Timothy B. Schmit introduced his own showcase in ‘I Can’t Tell You Why’, his vocal rendered even smoother by another tasteful solo from Steuart, while the quality of the guitar work was maintained by Joe’s trademark slide on ‘Victim Of Love’, perhaps one of the less obvious set selections.

They then introduced a particularly surprising guest in Deacon Frey, not weeks after he had left the band. He fitted back in seamlessly, singing ‘Peaceful Easy Feeling’, at the conclusion of which a simple but touching portrait photo of father Glenn looked down on the stage, then the crowd warmed up to ‘Take It Easy’, Deacon again leading those sun-kissed harmonies again and with Vince (unusually) and Joe sharing the solos.

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

Thus far the set had been quite mellow and countrified, but the dynamic changed when Joe took centre stage with his typical goofball humour ( ‘being 20 in the seventies was more fun than being 70 in the twenties’) and played ‘Life’s Been Good’- though the music was great and the song fun, his singing, always an acquired taste, seemed even more all over the shop than normal and he missed a few of the words.

‘Those Shoes’ – perhaps the surprise of the night though not a personal favourite- then saw him use a talkbox, while, dedicated to Taylor Hawkins,  Don’s solo hit ‘Boys of Summer’ seemed to get the best response yet, before ‘Funk 49’ found Joe on better vocal form and jamming with Vince on a middle section.

The crowd really warmed up with the band’s two traditional main set rock outs in ‘Heartache Tonight’,  sung by Vince and with a fine slide solo from Joe,  and ‘Life In The Fast Lane’, the latter’s soloing on the outro proving that he adds a jagged unpredictability to those otherwise safely  smooth songs.

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

At this point Don motioned to the rest of the band and said that they would drop the pretence of going off and again for an encore, not least as it was (expletive deleted) cold. As the backdrop of its parent album came up (the word iconic justified for once) ‘Hotel California’ was met by a sea of camera phones.

I was more transfixed by Steuart’s 12-string playing and that twin solo with him and Joe which never gets old, and which was ever so slightly embellished from the original. I’d momentarily forgotten Joe still had to play his trademark ‘Rocky Mountain Way’ with more superb slide guitar, before ‘Desperado’ was the usual and fitting closer, or so I thought.

Instead Don introduced some very special guests ‘from the East Coast of America’. I cannot have been alone in my pulse racing as momentarily I expected Bruce Springsteen, who had been with ‘Macca’ at Glasto the night before, but instead they were Mr and Mrs John McEnroe. ‘You cannot be serious’, I hear you say at this point, but as well as being in town for Wimbledon, the tennis great has been a guitar fanatic going way back to that ‘full metal racket’ single with Pat Cash and assorted musical celebs. Wife Patty Smyth meantime was someone who had long been on my bucket list to see.

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

(photo: Andy Nathan)

Sadly on this occasion her role was limited to backing vocals and the chance was missed to reprise her hit duet with Don Henley in ‘Sometimes Love Just Ain’t Enough’. Instead we had a fun canter through ‘Already Gone’, which I felt earlier in the set was needed to break up a preponderance of ballads and slow songs. With Deacon also coming back and Johnny Mac clearly having a ball jamming with them, it  had a distinctly looser feel by the Eagles standards.

During the set, Don Henley had hinted this might be a UK farewell, ‘thank you, in case we don’t pass this way again’, and indeed some of the band seemed noticeably older even in the three years since the last tour.  If that is the case, then this wonderful 2 hour plus demonstration of a legacy catalogue of great songs, delivered in a perfect setting and with a twist in the tale at the end, was a fitting way for these American treasures to bid goodbye to these shores.

EAGLES- British Summer Time, Hyde Park, 26 June 2022

Review by Andy Nathan
Photos by Paul Clampin

Album review/interview (Timothy B. Schmit – Day By Day, 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)


Gig Review: BEARDED THEORY’S SPRING GATHERING – Catton Park, 26-29 May 2022

BEARDED THEORY’S SPRING GATHERING – Catton Park, 26-29 May 2022

When asked “How was Bearded Theory?”, the short answer is “Awesome! Brilliant! I had the best weekend!”. The long answer that I want to give is this…

THURSDAY 26TH MAY

We were really lucky and arrived on Wednesday, so Thursday was a very relaxed affair. Most of the day was spent ambling around the site meeting up with festival family and bumping into old friends I hadn’t seen since we were last in those fields, on hallowed ground, in 2019.

Being part of the online Bearded Theory community, meeting friends for the first time was more like meeting people I already knew and adored because we’d already formed good friendships through Bearded Theory Facebook groups. One of the positive sides of social media. So many hugs!

This was a familiar scene throughout the festival site. People hugging hugs that haven’t been hugged in three whole years. The whole festival was alive with excitement, anticipation, and a palpable joy that we were here, together again, our Bearded family. We were home.

I managed to find time to explore the stalls in between hugs. There was something to suit most budgets, ranging from sculptures for hundreds of pounds, to reasonably priced festival clothes, to nick-nacks and trinkets for £1. I managed to pick up a charcoal grey, wooden Gandalf staff for £15!

The Bearded Theory beauties had even laid on bands for us so we could begin our weekend a day early. They really do spoil us rotten!

Opening the festival, playing the first music to be played on The Pallet stage in three years, were Cottons. Cottons are a new, up and coming band, with a modern indie sound. They absolutely reflected the joy that shrouded the main arena with their hard to resist charm and happy energy. They had drawn quite a crowd, filling the main arena by the time they’d finished their set. You’d be mad to miss out on seeing these live before we lose them to Glastonbury. 

Pierce Brothers continued the joyous energy on The Pallet. Twin brothers from Melbourne, they dominated the stage with their roots/folk music. Exploding with energy, they play many instruments, sometimes two at once, or both brothers playing the same guitar, they are a visual as well as aural delight.

The Bearded genies were outdoing themselves with the music they laid on for us that day because following Pierce Brothers were Dub Pistols. After three years away, Bearded Theory stalwarts, Dub Pistols, were a very welcome and familiar sight. More energy exploding onto the stage but this time by way of skanking, reminding us what our legs are for: bouncing!

Dreadzone were the final band of the day, and what a wonderful way to end a perfect day. Another Bearded favourite, Dreadzone had the crowd jumping and bouncing with many crowd favourites. Especially “Little Britain”, which they closed with, as “Welcome back” and “We’ve missed you” were projected onto the stage backdrop. Mine weren’t the only damp eyes at that point.

FRIDAY 27TH MAY 2022

I thought the festival was alive with excitement on Thursday, but Friday morning, walking around the festival site, there was even more of a jubilant feel. There was a positive energy radiating from every person I encountered.

Random strangers complimenting each other on their hair, their T-shirt, their clothes, their style. Free to do so without feeling daft. Spreading so much love, kindness, and happiness.  More hugs and huge grins. Even more of a feeling of togetherness, being amongst people who are like us, peace loving, music worshiping folks. This was our church and we had come here to worship our gods and feel the rapture of live music.  No feeling like it in the world.

Live music is what Bearded Theory delivered. Tons and oodles of it! Scouring the programme while drinking my morning coffee, not knowing where to begin, was a daily routine!

Where I eventually decided to begin that Friday was at The Pallet where The Now were rocking the boots off the crowd gathered there. Front man, Shane Callaghan has one of those effortless, where did that come from, voices. Their poetic lyrics sung with his terrific rock vocals. I had chosen well.

Next on my extensive list was a trip over to The Woodland for more noise explosions. Echo Machine don’t just play their music, they are their music. This energy being translated throughout the crowd. Eighties synth taken by a new generation who have brought it into the 21st century with a modern punk twist. They brought their passion and vigour for what they do, to The Woodland that afternoon.

After a break to refuel and replenish my coffee flask I meandered through the swollen crowd in the main arena to see The Skints, a must see at any festival. Their infectious modern reggae/rap sound spread through the field, causing symptoms such as an impossible to resist compulsion to bob, sway, and dance. They should come with a health warning – The Skints will cause compelling feelings of rhythm and happiness.

Following The Skints were Dubioza Kolektiv. If you’ve never seen these live I seriously recommend you do. They are bonkers! A bright yellow, Bosnian force of nature, who blast rap, ska songs at you along with a massive dose of the grins. They will have you joining in within the opening bars of their first song.

After that jolt to the system I took a walk back over to The Woodland to see Blackballed. Front man, Marshall Gill, has the perfect voice for the blues rock they play. I’m fairly sure he gargles Jack Daniels to achieve this. Either way, his voice is as sublime as his guitar playing. Add that to the smooth bass and slick drumming from Tom Wibberley and Alex Whitehead, and you have a blues rock band that can pour honey into your soul.

I stayed in The Woodland for Bob Vylan, and wow, am I glad I did! He opened the show with a mindfulness session set to a loud eruption of guitar and drumming. Then he let rip with an explosion of energy, performing modern protest rap songs about current issues of race and social inequality, accompanied by metal guitar and hammering drums. Bob Vylan is a jolt of electricity to the soul.

Up next for me was a band I’d been really looking forward to, punk metal band, Frank Carter and The Rattlesnakes, on The Pallet. A friend of mine says that at every Bearded Theory you’ll find your new favourite band. I found my absolute favourite just before the festival while listening to the artists on the line up.

The massive sound that Frank Carter and The Rattlesnakes create absolutely blew me away. It was love at first listen, so I was definitely excited to see them live. They were a hundred times better than I ever imagined.

With buckets of charisma and a wicked sense of humour, Frank Carter had the crowd eating out of his hand. He joined the mosh pit at one point, still singing songs that command your attention. It wasn’t a band playing music on the stage, it was a ball of punk energy taking over the entire field. Utterly incredible. So far, every single band I’d seen had brought their A game. Zero disappointments.

And then Placebo happened. Lazy and lacklustre. Moving on…

To be fair, I left before the end of their set, so I don’t know if they finished the same way. But I’d seen enough and headed to Magical Sounds for Subgiant.

Over in Magical Sounds, Subgiant were filling the air with fantastic beats. Despite having the odd sound issue, they still had the tent jumping, and when The Pallet stage emptied after Placebo, Magical Sounds filled. The tent looked like it had burst its seams, with people spilling out of the doorways.

SATURDAY 28TH MAY 2022

It was a laid-back start to the Saturday over in The Woodland, the sun dappled through the trees and contented faces all around. I was there to see Jess Silk.  Jess is a singer/guitar player of beautiful self-penned folk songs that are pure poetry. A singer and a set that were as warm as the sunshine coming through the trees.

Tarantism kept me in The Woodland. I’ve seen them several times at various music festivals, so I knew I was going to enjoy their splendid offerings. Tarantism are a music category all of their own, describing themselves as “celticskapunkfunkdubdance”. Yep. That pretty much sums them up. If you enjoy music in any of the categories listed, then you’ll enjoy Tarantism. Especially on a beautiful day in a beautiful woodland. They were made for the place.-

The Popes Of Chillitown kept me in the Woodland for a further hour. They were a massive high energy, blood pumping, bouncing, eruption of sound, this time of the two-tone/punk/rock/rap variety. I was so glad I’d spent the afternoon in The Woodland!

Time for a change of scenery, so I went over to The Pallet for the first time that day. I was at The Pallet to see Shame on recommendation from a good friend. This friend of mine clearly knows a thing or two. Shame are a very intense band, who know how to use a stage. They knew how to make it theirs; it belonged entirely to them. Indie rock/punk burst from the amps and speakers, the music itself almost demanded the crowd listen and dance to it. I listened, I danced, and I loved it.

The Pallet was where I was well and truly staying put for the final two acts of the day, the first of whom was Frank Turner and The Sleeping Souls. If you’ve ever been to Bearded Theory there’s a good chance you’ve seen Frank Turner.  Punk/folk at its finest, Frank puts every ounce of energy he has into his performances. He’s an awesome live artist. He’s very engaging and he gets back from the crowd as much he gives out. It’s a massive mutual exchange of passion for the music.

Patti Smith was The Pallet headliner of the day and when she took to the stage something took over me. That something was Patti Smith, her voice, and her songs, and I fully let her. It was almost spiritual.

Utterly compelling and powerfully enthralling, she and her music filled your soul. It was much more than a live set at a music festival, it was a live music experience. I was lost in a musical utopia, dancing completely freely in a way I haven’t for years. But when Patti performed “After The Goldrush” the dancing stopped and the arena fell silent, completely under her spell. That evening I felt the true impact that music can have, and it was mind-blowing.

SUNDAY 29TH MAY 2022

Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican were a welcome start to the final day, a massive dose of happiness and humour to lift us from our melancholy about it being the last day of our gathering.

They kept making me laugh when I was photographing them, so I was grateful that the band encourage photographers to hang around to photograph their entire set.

Looking around at the crowd to see people who had seen BSVD many times, plus first timers, bellow laughing at the punchlines. I couldn’t help but laugh and grin just the same. Thank you, BSVD, for dragging me out of my funk and reminding me that we were still in our happy place.

The Woodland was my next port of call as Liines had caught my eye in the program. They had me at “post punk”. I was not disappointed. A voice made for punk you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d been taken back to the 80’s, to a punk gig with a room filled with mohawks and silver studded denim jackets. I was in my element.

Remaining in the magic of The Woodland, I was definitely hanging around to see Gaz Brookfield. I’ve always found it remarkable how one man and a guitar manage to fill a venue with a huge atmosphere and massive folk sound.

It always seems to feel that the venues are too small to contain his music and energy. There was genuine love and affection for Gaz Brookfield, and you can see why when you see him live. Utterly charming and a thoroughly lovely human being. He loves what he does and shows love and genuine affection for his audience in return.

I felt a certain sadness as Gaz was coming to an end as it was probably the last time I’d be in The Woodland. (It was.) I made sure to take a moment to breathe it all in, to imprint it on my mind, as Gaz Brookfield’s voice and guitar rang out through the trees. Fresh memories of my ultimate happy place.

A band I admire and adore were next up on my schedule for the day, The Selecter. They were on absolute top form too, and we in the main field sang and skanked with the same vigour as the band delivered on stage.

Over the weekend I had many pinch myself moments. I had one when I was watching The Selecter, and dancing and chatting with a very dear friend. I had to pinch myself to remind myself I was back in a field, with some of my favourite people, skanking to two-tone icons, The Selecter.

All weekend I had moments of beautiful clarity, turning around to see a sea of happy faces, people dancing and enjoying themselves, laughing, sharing hugs and drinks with good friends.

In those moments I fully appreciated where we were. We were at bearded theory’s spring gathering for the first time in three very long years. Wow! I would fully take everything in. The warm sun on my face, the sound of the music, the laughter, the delicious and enticing aromas from the food stalls, the sight of that place, full of happy, full of grateful joy.

I then spent a delicious hour taking a walk, sucking up every last ounce of the happiness that had been prevalent throughout the festival all weekend. One last look at the sea of faces that I would miss so much, strangers and friends alike, I would miss those faces. Then there were the goodbye hugs. But goodbyes weren’t goodbyes because that word was too final. There were too many of those. We’d only just got there! How was it goodbye already?! So, goodbyes were “see you later”.

My amblings came to an end at Magical Sounds to see another band I was greatly looking forward to, ambient dance legends, Astralasia. I was in utter bliss and got lost in an ambient trance. So much so that I almost missed the pit time for The Pallet headliners, Flaming Lips!

What to say about Flaming Lips? Inflatables, technicolour light shows, and literal drama! As the band began their third number, Wayne Coyne noticed that someone was in trouble in the crowd and immediately brought the show to a stop.

The stage, security, and medical crews sprang immediately into action and the show was delayed while they dealt with the situation. Thankfully the individual that needed help only had a minor injury and was taken away to be looked after.

As the band resumed their set there was a sense of relief from everyone. Wayne took command of the stage, but almost apologetically with his warm and gentle manner, and the rest of the show continued without incident. Ethereal, rapturous harmonies echoed out into the crowd and into the night.

The weekend ended with the traditional fireworks display, bright colours lighting up the sky as “What a Wonderful World” played out over the sound system. I was destroyed. A full tears streaming down my face moment. I had missed this place and everything that came with it, and that was it, in the blink of an eye it was all over. The time had gone so quickly, I was left with a surreal feeling, questioning whether it had actually happened.

But I was treated to one last little bit of Bearded Theory magic. I was inwardly excited but outwardly cool that we had been camped next door to Tarantism all weekend. As the festival returned to its slumber, in the stillness you only get in the darkness of night,

Tarantism took up their instruments and started to play. It was such a pure and exquisite sound because it wasn’t a performance, it was completely organic. Friends coming together to play their music. It was one of my favourite music experiences to ever happen. A memory I will treasure forever. A beautiful end to the weekend.

Over in Facebook land there were the usual grumbles and gripes, big and small.  I feel for the organisers of any festival to have to read the criticisms after working so hard to make sure everyone has a good time, but especially the team at Bearded Theory because I know how much they care. How hard they strive to improve and learn year on year, to make as many people as happy as possible.

That’s why this is an open letter of sorts, to everyone involved. The organisers, the bookers, the stage crew, the bands, the Oxfam stewards, the stall holders, the onsite medical crew and security team, (who saved a man’s life thanks to their quick action!).

To any, and all members of this amazing team who make the festival happen. And to the wonderful, shiny happy people who attend. You create something a bit magically, beautifully special in the grounds of Catton Hall.

Review and photos by Hollie Latham


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: ORIANTHI – Live In Hollywood (CD and DVD)

Frontiers Music [Release date: 15.07.22]

For the uninitiated, Greek/Australian blonde bombshell Orianthi Panagaris is a platinum selling, guitar playing rock artist whose songs have registered many millions of hits online.
That’s when she’s not been treading the boards with Michael Jackson, Carlos Santana, Alice Cooper, Carrie Underwood and more recently, Richie Sambora.

She moved to Frontiers from Dave Stewart’s Robo Records for her last release, O, in 2020. Her new solo album on the label is due out later this year.

This live recording maintains her career momentum. It was recorded at the Bourbon Room in Hollywood in January, and expectantly, cherry picks from her 4 studio albums.

As a career best of, it was a wise move. None of her albums have the depth and stamina required for the long run, too often trading the slick and the superficial for rock solid songwriting. And so the live arena allows her to stretch out, to get into the musical dark corners that seem out of reach in the studio.

The last album’s big hitters come across best, all co-written with award winning producer Marti Frederiksen. Especially the songs tailored for today’s short attention spans.

The stomping, ramped up ‘Impulsive’ is a bigger song, done live. It’s tuned to the beating heart of a downhome Stonesy riff, casting off the pop treatment the studio album employed, and it works so much better.

Meantime, the viscerally kinetic ‘Contagious’, which seems to have acquired some dirt under its fingernails since leaving the studio, sends shockwaves rolling through an enthusiastic, receptive audience.

Balancing style and substance is always a challenge for a new kid on the blues block, it’s met head on by the slowed down, fiercely dramatic ‘Sinners Hymn’. Live, Orianthi and band slide into a groove that clearly connects with an appreciative crowd.

There’s an almost nostalgic tinge to the live version of ‘According To You’, a shiny pop diamond that became the artist’s worldwide breakout song in 2009. Performing it live now, 13 years later, Orianthi skillfully keeps the restrained fury of the original in check, transforming it into a passionate cry from the heart, no doubt echoed by women the world over. ***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: CHAS CRONK – Liberty

CHAS CRONK - Liberty

Renaissance Records [Release date 11.02.22]

It’s only when you look at the Discography in the liner note that you may realise that Chas Cronk has been a long-time member of The Strawbs but also worked with Steve Hackett and Rick Wakeman in the 1980s.  Quite a pedigree.

Now, he is wholly responsible for a new solo album which features Strawbs chums Dave Lambert on one track (‘A Splash Of Blue’) and Dave Bainbridge on another (‘Slipping Downstream’).

Cronk is responsible for all vocals, instruments and production and for the most part it works well.  It should appeal to lovers of Hackett when in gentler mode and pop prog in general.

Perhaps unsurprisingly the tracks with guest appearances are the standouts and with ‘A Splash Of Blue’ he reworks a track that also appeared on his 2007 collaboration with Lambert.  ‘Everybody Knows’ is also convincing, and previously appeared on ‘The Broken Hearted Bride’ (The Strawbs, 2008).

The two instrumental interludes, for this listener, could have been expanded and embellished and – if there’s one real criticism – maybe a dedicated vocalist might have lifted all these tracks.  ***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: BELLA HARDY – Love Songs

BELLA HARDY - Love Songs

Noe Records [Release date 08.07.22]

Recorded over just three days, ‘Love Songs‘ is Bella Hardy‘s tenth solo album. The album features seven traditional numbers with four self-penned originals, all loosely based on the album title. She is joined by Mike Vass on guitars & production and Tom Gibbs on piano and clarinet.

One thing that stands out on the album is the pin drop production by Mike Vass. Vass is one of the best producers around in folk & traditional musical circles for getting the sound of vocals and instruments just right. Take for instance the clarinet on ‘The Navigator’s Bride’. Clear as a bell yet never taking over the song or detracting from Hardy’s singing. The song itself is based on the history of the Irish navvies who arrived in Edale in the Peak District in October 1888 to start work building the Cowburn railway tunnel. Sung from the view of a shepherd’s daughter who ignores the village snobs and hypocrites who say the navvies are trouble, sets her heart on marrying her new sweetheart. Sadly the song ends with a cave-in and “men buried down below”.

Hardy does a lively version of ‘My Johnny Was A Shoemaker’, a traditional tune she heard done by Steeleye Span and it is their version on which her version is based. ‘Awake Awake’ soothes the soul, whilst the a capella ‘Lowlands Away’ shows what a wonderfully melodic and emotive vocal Bella Hardy has.

A stunning collection of songs sung by the soothing tones of Bella Hardy. One that has appeal outside of the folk and singer songwriter genres. ***1/2


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: PETER GOALBY – I Will Come Runnin’

PETER GOALBY – I Will Come Runnin’

Cherry Red Records [Release date 06.05.22]

Like buses, you wait ages for a Peter Goalby album, then two come along in quick succession. On this album, like last year’s ‘Easy With The Heartaches‘, it features songs originally recorded in the mid-80s which have been given a modern sheen by Peter Goalby. Guitarist Eddy Morton and keyboards player Paul Hodson were again involved in the recordings, along with another couple of co-writes with Robin George.

The title track and ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll Crazy’ both have massive choruses coupled with melodies that made melodic rock in the 80s so enjoyable. The latter wouldn’t have looked out of place on a Goalby fronted Heep album of that time.

Paul Hodson’s keyboards add class to the Foreigner sounding ‘Somebody’s Fool’ and ‘If There Was A Time’. When Foreigner replaced Lou Gramm with Johnny Edwards back in 1990 they should have gone for Peter Goalby instead!

The album’s final song, ‘A Little Piece Of Heaven’, is a poignant one as it was the last one written by Goalby before he quit the music business. Different that the rest of the album, being mainly acoustic based, bar a well crafted guitar solo. The lyrics clearly reflect that Goalby had decided to leave music for something new.

Mellower melodic rock on this album compared to the previous one. Peter Goalby’s singing really makes the album that extra bit speical. These two albums would have proved big hits back in the mid/late 80s if they had had a full release and promotion. Top quality melodic rock never sounded so good. ****

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: CROSSING RUBICON – Perfect Storm

Frontiers [Release date: 08.07.22]

Crossing Rubicon is a marriage made in the world of post Grunge AOR. That world might look and sound just like it did in the eighties, only much smaller, but there’s a greater expectation now especially among a sizeable core audience.

Cenk (Winger) Eroglu plays guitar, writes and produces. John (The Babys) Bisaha is the vocalist.

The duo rummage through the genre’s past in a way that will provide aural comfort food for many. The big hitters ‘Scar’ and ‘Too Late’ sound like forgotten hits their parent bands left behind on the cutting room floor.

And that’s taking into account a couple of lightning bolts of melodic rock brilliance that open the album. ‘Perfect Storm’ (an Unruly Child/Signal lookalike) and ‘Reason To Die’ (if you forgive the dodgy lyrics).

There’s still an irresistible sense of riding the Eighties wave of popularity that was enjoyed by Winger and The Babys, even if neither Eroglu or Bisaha were members at the time.

Unfortunately that momentum doesn’t carry them all the way into the here and now. The polished simplicity of ‘On The Run’ and ‘Cry Me A River’ make them feel more like run of the mill melodic rock in today’s world of heightened expectations.

Right on cue, romantic ballads ‘Never Again’ and ‘Get Away’ light up the second half of the album. Both sound lifted directly from eighties’ nite time radio airwaves. Two cheek to cheek dancefloor fillers looking for that awesome melodic moment… the one that’s always tantalisingly out of reach.

Very much the definition of the “AOR dream”.

Apparently Eroglu has many more songs written, so we’re bound to hear these two guys again soon. ***

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: BIG BIG TRAIN, JELLYFISH, TONY WRIGHT (July 2022)

Glenn Hughes - Stonedeaf - 24 August 2019

News - Album News

Lee Aaron plans to release her new album ‘Elevate’ before the end of the year.

A-Ha release their new album ‘True North’ on October 21.

Big Big Train release Summer Shall Not Fade – Live At Loreley’ through English Electric Recordings on October 14.

Former Captain Beefheart guitarist Jeff Cotton has announced that he will release his first solo album ‘The Fantasy of Reality’ through Madfish records on August 12.

The Cult’s new album ‘Under The Midnight Sun’ is out on October 7 via Black Hill Records.

The Dead Daisies release their latest album – and second to feature Glenn Hughes (pictured) – ‘Radiance’ on September 30 through SPV/Steamhammer.

David Ellefson (ex-Megadeth) and Jeff Scott Soto release an album, ‘Vacation In The Underworld’, in September via Rat Pak Records.

Faster Pussycat have signed with Golden Robot Records.

The Godfathers release their latest album ‘Alpha Beta Gamma Delta’ on September 16.

Goo Goo Dolls have announced their thirteenth studio album ‘Chaos In Bloom’ due on August 12.

Hawkwind will release a new live double album, ‘We Are Looking In On You’, through Cherry Red Records on September 2.

Robyn Hitchcock releases his new album ‘Shufflemania!’ through Tiny Ghost Records on October 21.

Jack J Hutchinson will release an EP/DVD ‘What Doesn’t Kill You’ on 2 September.

Jackyl will celebrate their 30th anniversary by releasing ‘30 Coming In Hot’ on August 12. The album will feature 17 tracks – three brand new studio songs, and 14 live versions of fan favourites. 

Jag Panzer have revealed they have completed drum and bass recordings for their new concept album, ‘The Hallowed’.

Jean-Michel Jarre releases his latest album, ‘Oxymore’, through Sony Music on 21 October. Alongside the album, he will also launch a VR world called Oxyville. Jarre explains: “Oxyville will be a virtual music city, and in the future I will invite other artists to be a part of it, as well as hold masterclasses and other events. I want it to become a sandbox for new music experiences”.

Jellyfish release a 1,000 copy limited edition set ‘When These Memories Fade’ on September 30. The set includes seven 7″ coloured vinyl singles.

Laurence Jones’ new album ‘Destination Unknown’ is released via Marshall Records on 9 September.

Kamleot are putting the final touches to their new album.

Dave Kerzner releases his latest album ‘The Traveller’ on July 29.

Lessmann/Voss release their debut album ‘Rock Is Our Religion’ on July 22 on Atomic Fire Records.

The Levellers have announced they will release an acoustic album next year and have announced UK tour dates for next February & March.

Lillian Axe release their long awaited new album ‘From Womb To Tomb’ on August 19 through Global Rock Records.

Manic Street Preachers release an expanded and remastered version of ‘Know Your Enemy’ on 9 September.

Marillion release a deluxe edition of their 1991 album ‘Holidays in Eden’ through EMI on September 16.

Richard Marx has announced a new album, ‘Songwriter’, will be released on September 30. It covers four different styles of music — pop, rock, country and ballads — and features collaborations with Burt Bacharach, Keith Urban and David Hodges (Evanescence).

Massive Wagons release their latest album ‘Triggered’ on October 28 on Earache Records.

Andy McCoy (Hanoi Rocks) releases a covers album ‘Jukebox Heart’ on August 5.

Former Judas Priest singer Tim “Ripper” Owens has started working on new music produced by Jamey Jasta (Hatebreed) and Nick Bellmore (Dee Snider).

Pink Floyd release ‘Animals Remix 2018′ on September 16.

P.O.D. re-issue their album ‘When Angels & Serpents Dance’ on October 14 through Mascot Records.  Three bonus tracks are included.

The Proclaimers release their new album ‘Dentures Out’ on September 16 via Cooking Vinyl.

David Readman releases his new solo album ‘Medusa’ on August 5.

R.E.M. will reissue their debut EP ‘Chronic Town’ as a CD, picture disc and cassette on August 19 via I.R.S./UMe to mark its 40th anniversary.

Red Hot Chilli Peppers will release their second album of the year, a double, ‘Return of the Dream Canteen’, on October 14 via Warner Records.

Slade release a 5CD live boxset ‘All The World Is A Stage’ via BMG on 9 September and it includes three previously unreleased live records.

Slipknot release their new album ’The End, So Far’ on September 30 via Roadrunner Records.

Sparks have started work on their next studio album.

Taboo release their self-titled debut on Frontiers on September 9. Taboo are vocalist Christoffer Stjerne and Pretty Maids guitarist Ken Hammer.

A new 14 CD Van Der Graf Generator box set, Interference Patterns – The Recordings 2005-2016‘, will be released through Esoteric Recordings on September 23.

Where Rivers Meet release a live album ‘The Flying Free Tour Live’ on July 29.

Terrorvision frontman Tony Wright (pictured) has released ‘Buried You Deeper’, the first single from his new solo album, ‘The Anti Album’, which is released on October 7.

News - Tours and Gigs

Newly announced UK tours (2022 unless stated):

Bob Dylan, Fields Of The Nephilim, Robert Jon & the Wreck (2023), Killing Joke (London 2023), Leprous (2023), the Levellers (2023), Erja Lyytinen + Dom Martin, Raven (2023), Ugly Kid Joe + Massive Wagons, Where Rivers Meet, Tony Wright (Terrorvision), 

Upcoming (Gigs – UK)

Newly announced US & European tours (2022 unless stated):

Richie Kotzen (US), Leprous (2023), Stevie Nicks (US), Sevendust (US), Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band (US 2023), Trivium (US), Vixen (US),

Upcoming (USA/ROW)

UK Festivals 2022

Rescheduled & cancelled tours:

Asia featuring Carl Palmer & Geoff Downes (2022 to 2023 US), King’s X (UK & Eur cancelled), Whitesnake (remaining European dates cancelled), Y&T (UK & Eur cancelled),

KISS are planning more farewell dates to a 100 more cities.

Queen + Adam Lambert have announced “Rhapsody Over London”, an exclusive concert spectacular, filmed live at The 02 London during the band’s current sold-out European tour. It will premiere live on July 24 via Kiswe’s global streaming platform, plus a Q&A session afterwards with the band.

Toyah will support Billy Idol on his upcoming tour.

Tony Iommi and Duran Duran are both involved in the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony in Birmingham later this month.

Other Stuff

An official Jimi Hendrix 80th birthday edition of the book ‘JIMI’ by his sister Janie Hendrix and John McDermott is published on November 15 in the US and November 24 in the UK.

Def Leppard release two premium gins – ‘Animal’ and ‘Rocket’ – as part of their 45th anniversary celebrations.

‘Charlie’s Good Tonight: The Authorised Biography of Charlie Watts’ is published on 15 September in the UK and 11 October in the US.

Toby Jepson is to publish ‘Sticks And Stones – My Life In Words’ on 23 September, a comprehensive lyric songbook that will span his entire career. Available to pre-order now until Friday the 2nd of September via tobyjepsonofficial.com

The new David Bowie documentary ‘Moonage Daydream’ will be released in cinemas on September 16.

BMG has acquired Simple Minds’ song rights catalogue, plus the band’s remuneration and royalty rights in relation to their entire recorded music output. BMG have also acquired the song rights of Jean-Michel Jarre.

Guitarist Nina Strauss has left Alice Cooper’s band after eight years and also cancelled her upcoming solo festival appearances. Former guitarist Kane Roberts replaces her.

Singer Philip Anselmo and bassist Rex Brown have signed with Artist Group International to book their North American dates for the reformed Pantera. They will be joined by Zakk Wylde and Anthrax’s Charlie Benante.

Steve Morse has announced he is leaving Deep Purple to care for his wife. He has been a member of the band for twenty eight years.

News - RIP

Founder member of Nazareth, guitarist Manny Charlton, who released a number of solo albums after leaving the band in 1990

Colosseum saxophonist Barbara Thompson

Colin Harkness frontman of Spider


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: THE AMBER QUILLS – Chords And Candles

Empreint Cordialle [Release date 07.07.22]

Prodigious musician Michael Burdett, leader of The Little Death Orchestra, formed The Amber Quills in 1982. The tapes of the band’s recordings were thought to have been destroyed by flood, but Burdett has had them restored recently, thanks to developments in digital technology.

Between times he’s made a successful career out of writing numerous TV themes, as well as many original scores for the world of corporate advertising. He knows his way around the music business.

‘Chords And Candles’ is the first of the restored tracks to be released.

There are welcome parallels with Divine Comedy and Pulp here. The musically upbeat song is constructed around sweet harmonies, light touch arrangement, tasteful backing vocals and keyboard orchestration.

This all serves to mask Burdett’s socially acerbic lyrics, laced with cynicism and insiders’ insight. Clearly, he’d already got the measure of the music biz, or at least the establishment figures who run it.

In a nice marketing touch, on the release date, 78 rare white label copies of the 12” vinyl version (in itself limited to a thousand) will be placed in Charity Shops in all 4 countries of the UK.

Get ready.  ****

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: ARDOURS – Anatomy Of A Moment

Frontiers [Release date: 08.07.22]

A merger of two musical forces who once crossed paths, Ardours are Mariangela (Tristania) Demurtas, who sings and writes. And Kris Laurent, who writes, plays all instruments and produces.

Their album, Anatomy Of A Moment, frames up a musical artist’s canvas, and onto it paints the most engaging synchronisation of rock, pulsing electronics and tuneful pop immediacy.

Beginning with ‘Epitaph For A Spark’s skittering beeps and blips of tuneful sci-fi electronica, the music seems rooted in nostalgia. But there’s a transformative quality in Laurent’s arrangements and Demurtas’s emotional vocals, as the duo move the music forward into wider, more symphonic musical realms.

‘Insomniac’s rapid, jagged, two chord intro repeats until the song gets a little more sonically interesting and a little more intense. There’s just the slightest hint of a New Wave edge, like the Pretenders mainlining into a piece of Riz Ortolani music.

Maria’s vocals seems to express the physical sensations she feels when interpreting the lyrics…one moment they are coasting along quite happily … then suddenly her voice is blazing with a throaty roar of emotion.

A sense of romantic upheaval circles many these songs without ever threatening to undermine them. The pastoral, romantic, guitar driven pop of ‘Given’ is stripped down to just the simplest of sounds, with the keys and the drums and the glassy guitars going back and forth, as the melody rises and falls. Lyrically, ‘Cold Revenge’ provides the balance, couching its muffled musical sounds in Gothic darkness.

As is the way of many title tracks, ‘Anatomy Of A Moment’ is different from the rest. It tends toward soundscape rather than song, shuffling synth heavy rhythms underneath Maria’s breathy, dreamy vocals. Quite daring in its own way. Let’s hope it finds an audience. ****

Review by Brian McGowan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Gig review: QUEEN + ADAM LAMBERT – 02 Arena, London, 20 June 2022

QUEEN + ADAM LAMBERT- 02 Arena, London, 20 June 2022

Nearly 50 years since they first emerged, there seems to be an endless  appetite for the music of Queen- just look at your Freeview channel schedules packed with documentaries or archive concerts. Indeed public interest in them reached arguably its greatest ever peak with the worldwide success of 2018’s ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’  biopic.

Only a year before I had seen them at Wembley Arena and yet when these 02 shows were announced (prior to a two year delay because of Covid) seat prices seemed to have doubled overnight in response to this renewed interest. I wasn’t sure whether to go, but after reading rave reviews managed to get slightly more reasonably  priced standing tickets for the ninth of the ten show residency.

QUEEN + ADAM LAMBERT- 02 Arena, London, 20 June 2022

I was expecting a spectacular show from behind the curtain but there was a rather muddled beginning as what were holograms of Brian May and a top-hatted Adam Lambert appeared, only for their real equivalents to burst into life from different parts of the stage.

The opener was ‘Now I’m Here’, normally one of my all-time favourite Queen songs. Here though it not only felt a bit disjointed, but I suspect my preference for earlier Queen material over their pop hits made me in a minority, at least among this mixed audience as opposed to GRTR!’s core readership or indeed the crowd at Roger Taylor’s solo show last year, which shared many of the same personnel.

For the same reasons it felt like I was the only one punching the air and singing along to ‘Tear It Up’ which segued in medley fashion,  via ‘Seven Seas of Rhye’ and the first of those massive vocal harmonies, into another of those all too rare hard rock cuts from the eighties in ‘Hammer to Fall’,  though I missed the old Freddie ‘give it to me one more time’ sign off.

QUEEN + ADAM LAMBERT- 02 Arena, London, 20 June 2022

‘Somebody To Love’ played more naturally to Adam Lambert’s theatricality and during ‘Killer Queen’ he was fluttering a fan archly before introducing the crowd. The American struck exactly the right key, modestly  enthusing over his honour to play with such legends but that he could never try and replace Freddie Mercury. That is true, but only a man of his extraordinary charisma,  flamboyance and self-assurance could thrive in the task rather than be overwhelmed by it.

‘Don’t Stop Me Now’  really warmed the crowd up for the first time in the night then another surprise saw the original stage set fall apart around Adam during ‘In The Lap of The Gods’. A new one emerged for Roger Taylor’s trademark ‘I’m In Love With My Car’ (as mocked in the film!) at the end of which a Queen petrol pump was projected before Adam emerged on the walkway spreadeagled astride a motorbike during ‘Bicycle Race’, segueing into the equally politically incorrect ‘Fat Bottom Girls’ as it was Brian’s turn to venture down the catwalk, soloing on his trusty red special.

QUEEN + ADAM LAMBERT- 02 Arena, London, 20 June 2022

The set moved into the eighties with the contrasting pair of ‘Another One Bites The Dust’ where I was surprised not more were up dancing in the seated areas, and an anthemic ‘I Want It All’ given fresh life by a fast and furious solo from Brian. That led into the hirsute guitarist’s solo slot with a cheeky rendition of ‘Maybe It’s Because I’m a Londoner’ leading into ‘Love of My Life’ with the crowd taking over most of it, then a hologram of Freddie emerging alongside him on the big screen for a touching cameo, then after some joking about time travel  ‘39’ got people clapping along.

He was then joined out on the walkway by the grey bearded figure of Roger who delivered the affecting ‘Those Are The Days Of Our Lives’ in a rather Stewart- esque rasp, before Adam came on stage in a kilt for ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’ which saw the greatest volume of seated people to their feet yet, then as a dedication was made to Taylor Hawkins and bassist Neil Fairclough ventured part way down the walkway for his one moment in the spotlight, as ‘Under Pressure’ saw the drummer and singer duet.

QUEEN + ADAM LAMBERT- 02 Arena, London, 20 June 2022

The rest of the set had something for everyone with all facets of Queen represented. Adam took the spotlight to show his remarkable soaring range on a near acapella ‘Who Wants to Live Forever’ and to a lesser extent ‘The Show Must Go On’ (though I still think that was one of the Queen songs on which Paul Rodgers excelled).

Brian was given a lengthy guitar showcase which began with him hoisted atop a giant crater onto a backdrop of outer space, saw him interpret Dvorak’s ‘New World Symphony’ (aka the Hovis ad for us children of the seventies) and ended by breaking into ‘Tie Your Mother Down’ which, as one of the rare songs not suited to Adam’s voice and only played in part, was a relative disappointment.

QUEEN + ADAM LAMBERT- 02 Arena, London, 20 June 2022

Aided by some great visuals, Adam’s swagger, and crowd singalongs  I enjoyed ‘I Want To Break Free’ and ‘A Kind of Magic’ far more than I did at the time when my teenage self considered them as Queen selling out to pop. And talking of which, ‘Radio Gaga’ finally had the majority of people to their feet, joining in with the handclaps, before the atmosphere reached fever pitch during ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, Adam delivering the first part admirably before the band video and as a welter of explosions heralded the fast third movement, jumping and even a spot of Wayne’s World style headbanging from those on the floor.

The encore began with a 3D Freddie repeating his famous ‘day-o’ call and response leading into more clapping and chanting from everyone in the arena to ‘We Will Rock You’ and a giant CGI image of Frank, the ‘News of the World’ monster making lifelike facial expressions, before the number that more than any other sums up the over the top nature of Queen in ‘We Are The Champions’. It was quite a sight to see even those in the vertiginous upper tier swaying and all that was missing was Adam and Brian wearing royal cloaks, as the former made do with a relatively feeble crown, before they were showered in confetti as ‘God Save The Queen’ struck up.

QUEEN + ADAM LAMBERT- 02 Arena, London, 20 June 2022

This had been a combination of straight gig and larger than life musical theatre, and credit should be shared by those whose musical contributions were literally delivered in the shadows, including second drummer Tyler Warren and musical director and unofficial Queen fifth member Spike Edney.

While the song choice was not too dissimilar from all the various post-Freddie tours, no-one surely could begrudge even the high ticket prices, as no expense was spared on a spectacle to remember. They really pulled out the stops with the stage show and effects to prove that past or present, nobody does it bigger or better than Queen.

QUEEN + ADAM LAMBERT- 02 Arena, London, 20 June 2022

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)


Quick plays: LIPS TURN BLUE, O’KANE & BLOCK, CTP

Lips Turn Blue

LIPS TURN BLUE MIG Music [Release date 04.05.22]

Lips Turn Blue feature Don Mancuso (a former member of Black Sheep which featured Lou Gramm who guests on this album), keyboardist Eric Bieber, bassist Mike Mullane, drummer Roy Stein and vocalist Iggy Marino, who replaces original vocalist Phil Naro who passed away last year. This album and the upcoming Talas album were both completed by Naro before his death.

Plenty of catchy, melodic hard rock is to be found on the album including ‘Just Push’ and ‘Sit Up’. ‘Better Than I Used To Be’ is a proper summer banger in the style of Night Ranger, driven along by tasty keys from Eric Bieber.

The ballad ‘Pray For Tomorrow’ is very much a song of the here and now. As Don Mancuso explains “…was written when conflicts around the world started becoming a main focus in the news; then the pandemic hit, and recently the focus has been on the war in the Ukraine”. A poignant song and another of the album’s ballads ‘No Need For You To Call’ features an impassioned vocal performance from Phil Naro.

Black Sheep’s ‘Chain On Me’ and the Beatles ‘Hey Bulldog’ are a couple of impressive covers by Lips Turn Blue. ‘Chain On Me’ features a mini Black Sheep reunion as Lou Gramm guests with his old bandmate Mancuso on backing vocals. Lou Gramm takes the lead on ‘A Little Outside’ which sees the album out in style.

A fitting tribute to Phil Naro, as well as laying down the foundation for the band to carry on with their classy brand of hard rock. ***1/2

Review by Jason Ritchie

DAMIEN O’KANE & RON BLOCK Banjophonics

DAMIEN O’KANE & RON BLOCK Banjophonics Pure Records [Release date 01.07.22]

Damien O’Kane and Ron Block return four years after their debut release (2018’s ‘Banjophony’) with ‘Banjophonics’. They treat the banjo as any other musical instrument and apply it to all manner of tunes, with the majority written by Damien O’Kane and Ron Block. They are joined by guests including Steven Byrnes (guitar), Josh Clark (drums, percussion), Duncan Lyall (double bass, Moog) and Kate Rusby (backing vocals).

Many delights to be heard including ‘Woman Of No Place’, one of two vocal tracks on the album. This one is about Margaret Barry, a traveller from Cork who played banjo & sang, and who had a big influence on musicians including Luke Kelly of the Dubliners.

Duncan Lyall’s Moog playing adds to the sound and ambience on ‘Whirlwind’, with the frantic banjo playing on ‘Happy Sevens/Monster Rabbit’ a delight to listen to. Both O’Kane and Block would be a marvellous sight to see playing these tunes live.

Banjo led music played by two of its leading exponents doesn’t get much better than this. Gone on, give it a try… ****

Review by Jason Ritchie

C.T.P. Now & Then Encore Chris Tones Music [Release date 29.07.22]

As the album title suggests guitarist Christian Tolle is revisiting some of his previous songs plus adding a few new ones, as indeed he did on 2016’s ‘Now & Then’. Christian again uses an impressive array of vocalists, namely John Cuijpers (Praying Mantis, Ayreon), David Reece (ex-Accept) and David Frazee (Burning Water, Michael Landau Liquid Quartet). Guitarist Mathias Dieth (ex-U.D.O., Gravestone) guests on two tracks, with Morris Adriaens on keyboards, Hammond organ & backing vocals.

Plenty of variety on here from the Led Zep riff on ‘Ain’t Gonna Let It Slide’, the horns and catchy refrain of ‘Never Had It So Good’, and the Praying Mantis like melodic hard rock of ‘Sword & Stone’. Off his debut album ‘Better Than Dreams’ (2000), Christian reworks ‘Angel’ and ‘Monkey Park’, both sounding freshern with modern production and the vocals of David Frazee.

David Reece puts in a passionate performance on ‘Raining From My Eyes’, a song that also features the album’s guitar solo highlight.

Bit like Phil Vincent and Johnny Lima, Christain Tolle seems to fly under the musical radar of many melodic rock lovers but those who know his music will enjoy this mix of revisits and new songs. ***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)


Upcoming: New releases (CD/DVD) January 2022 – June 2022

Compiled by Jason Ritchie

October-December 2021

July 2022 – December 2022

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2022

January

3rd

ADRIANGALE ‘Final Piece’

7th

TIM ARNOLD ‘Maybe Magic’

AT THE MOVIES ‘The soundtrack of your life – Vol. 2′, ‘The Soundtrack Of Your Life – Vol. 1 + 1′ Atomic Fire Records

CARMINE APPICE ‘Guitar Zeus’ (box set) Deko Entertainmen

DAVID BOWIE ‘Toy’

PETER CETERA ‘Love, glory, honor, heart’

POWER PALADIN ‘With The Magic Of Wyndfyre Steel’ Atomic Fire Records

THE WOMBATS ‘Fix Yourself, Not the World’

14th

AUTUMN’S CHILD ‘Zenith’ Pride & Joy Music

Elvis Costello and The Imposters ‘The Boy Named If’ EMI/Capitol Records

EDGUY ‘The Savage Poetry’

ELIMINATOR ‘Ancient Light’ Cherry Red Records

JOHN LODGE ‘The Royal Affair and After’ (live album)

THE LUMINEERS ‘Brightside’

TONY MARTIN (ex-BLACK SABBATH) ‘Thorns’ Dark Star Records

OUT OF THIS WORLD S/T Atomic Fire Records (features KEE MARCELLO ex-EUROPE)

PRIDELANDS ‘Light Bends’ SharpTone Records

SKILLET ‘Dominion’ Atlantic

ALVIN STARDUST ‘The Magnet Album’ (3CD) Cherry Red Records

THE TEMPERANCE MOVEMENT ‘Caught On Stage: Live & Acoustic’ Earache Records

TOUNDRA ‘Hex’ InsideOut Records

THE WOMBATS ‘Fix Yourself, Not The World’

21st

ASHES OF ARES ‘Emperors And Fools’ ROAR! Rock Of Angels

BATTLE BEAST ‘Circle Of Doom’ Nuclear Blast

BILLY TALENT ‘Crisis Of Faith’

BITE THE BULLET ‘End of the Line’ Escape Music

CHRYSTALBELL ‘Suicide Moonbeams’ Love Conquered Records

DIAMOND DOGS ‘Slap Bang Blue Rendezvous’ (double album)

DREAM THEATER ‘The Majesty Demos (1985 – 1986)’ InsideOut

EDGE OF FOREVER ‘Seminole’ Frontiers

THE FALLEN STATE ‘Between Hope And Illusion’

THE FERRYMEN ‘One More River To Cross’ Frontiers

GIANT ‘Shifting Time’ Frontiers

KANDIA ‘Quaernary’ Frontiers

KISSIN’ DYNAMITE ‘Not The End of the Road’ Napalm Records

LALU ‘Piant The Sky’ Frontiers

LIONHEART ‘Second Nature’ (re-issue with 2 bonus tracks) Metalville Records

MAGNUM ‘The Monster Roars’ SPV/Steamhammer

STEVE McCLINTOCK ‘Soundtrack Heroe’ MelodicRock Classics

Odin Dragonfly ‘Sirens’ Black Sand Records

SONATA ARCTICA ‘Acoustic Adventures – Volume One’ Atomic Fire Records

TOKYO BLADE ‘Fury’ Dissonance Productions

VARIOUS ‘Revolt In Style 1979′ (3CD) Cherry Red Records

28th

BIG BIG TRAIN ‘Welcome To The Planet’ English Electric Recordings

CRYSTAL BALL ‘Crysteria’ Massacre Records

PAIL DRAPER (MANSUN) ‘Cult Leader Tactics’ KScope

EELS ‘Extreme Witchcraft

EVERGREY ‘Before the Aftermath – Live In Gothenburg’ AFM Records

FASTER PUSSYCAT ‘Babylon – The Elektra Years 1987-1992′ (4CD box set) Cherry Red Records

ERIC GALES ‘Crown’

JETHRO TULL ‘The Zealot Gene’ Inside Out

KREAMER ‘All The Way’ Frontiers

LANA LANE ‘Neptune Blues’ Frontiers

JOHN MAYALL ‘The Sun Is Shining Down’ Forty Below Records

CLIVE MITTEN ‘Tales From A Misspent Youth – Volume 1′

NASSON ‘Scars’ Frontiers

North Mississippi Allstars ‘Set Sail’

OUR LASY PIECE ‘Spiritual Machines II’

Anthony Phillips ‘Archive Collections Vols 1 & 2′ (5CD Remastered Box Set) Cherry Red Records

PRAYING MANTIS ‘Katharsis’ Frontiers

SCARLET REBELS ‘See Through Blue’ Earache Records

URGE OVERKILL ‘Oui’

URIAH HEEP ‘Very ‘Eavy Very ‘Umble’ & ‘Salisbury’ (Limited Edition Vinyl Picture Discs) BMG

STEVE VAI ‘Inviolate’

Willie & the Bandits ‘When The World Stood Still’

February

4th

BASTILLE ‘Give Me The Future’

Corpsegrinder S/T Perseverance Music

JOHN ILLSLEY ‘VIII’

iVARDENSPHERE ‘Ragemaker’ Metropolis Records

DAVEY JOHNSTONE BAND ‘Deeper Than My Roots’ Cherry Red Records

KORN ‘Requiem’ Loma Vista Recordings

MYSTIC CIRCLE S/T Atomic Fire Records

SAXON ‘Carpe Diem’ Silver Lining Music

SAM SWEENEY ‘Solo’ (EP)

11th

AMPHORIS ‘Halo’ Atomic Fire Records

CITY OF LIGHTS ‘Before The Sun Sets’ Frontiers

DEGREED ‘Are You Ready?’ Frontiers

Girish & The Chronicles ‘Hail to the Heroes’ Frontiers

INVISIONS ‘Deadlock’

Peter Knight & John Spiers ‘Both In A Tune’

LOVE/HATE ‘Hell, CA’

MANIC SINNERS ‘King of the Badlands’ Frontiers

Napalm Death ‘Resentment Is Always Seismic – A Final Throw Of Throes’ Century Media Records

Alan Parsons with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra ‘One Note Symphony: Live In Tel Aviv’ Frontiers

SCORPIONS ‘Rock Beliver’

SEA POWER ‘Everything Was Forever’

Slash with Myles Kennedy And The Conspirators ’4′ Gibson Records

FRANK TURNER ‘FTHC’

EDDIE VEDDER ‘Earthling’

VOIVOD ‘Synchro Anarchy’ Century Media Records

14th

FOXY SHAZAM ‘The Heart Beahead You’ EEEOOOAH Records

18th

ABSOLVA ‘Fire In The Sky’

Annihilator ‘Metal II’ earMUSIC

BIRTHDAY MASSACRE ‘Fascination’ Metropolis Records

Boguslaw Balcerak’s Crylord ‘Human Heredity’ Prode & Joy Music

GUILD OF OTHERS S/T Louder Than Loud Records

IMMOLATION ‘Acts Of God’ Nuclear Blast

KEYS S/T Escape Music

Jonas Lindberg & The Other Side ‘Miles From Nowhere’ InsideOut

LIONVILLE ‘So Close To Heaven’ Frontiers

LITTLE AMERICA ‘Anthology’ MelodicRockClassics

MECCA ‘Twenty Years’ Frontiers

MIDNIGHT OIL ‘Resist’

NIGHTRAGE ‘Abyss Rising’Despotz Records

PINK FLOYD ‘Pulse Restored & Re-edited’ EMI

Re-Machined ‘Brain Dead’ Pride & Joy Music

Arjen Lucassen’s Star One ‘Revel In Time’ InsideOut Music

TEN ‘Here Be Monsters’ Frontiers

ZADRA ‘Guiding Star’ Frontiers

20th

JOHN WAITE ‘Anything’ (EP)

22nd

Vivaldi Metal Project ‘EpiClassica’

25th

ELLES BAILEY ‘Shining In The Half Light’

D’Virgilio, Morse & Jennings ‘Troika’ InsideOut

DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL ‘All The Truth That I Can Tell’ Hidden Note Records/AWAL

DAYTIME TV ‘Nothing’s On But Everyone’s Watching’ Allotment

DEEP PURPLE ‘Greatest Hits’ (3CD) Voiceprint

DODGY ‘The A&M Years’ (box set)

Felskinn ‘Enter The Light’ Rock Of Angels Records

GUNS N ROSES ‘Hard Skool’ (EP)

HAMMERFALL ‘Hammer Of Dawn’ Napalm Records

AVRIL LAVIGNE ‘Love Sucks’

JOHNNY MARR ‘Fever Dreams Pts 1-4′ BMG

Steven McClintock ‘Sountrack Heroes’ MelodicRock Classics

Steven McClintock ‘Headway Lost’ MelodicRock Classics

Dan Patlansky ‘Shelter of Bones’ Virgin Music Label and Artist Services

PIXIES ‘Live In Brixton’ (delayed from Jan 25)

THE RODS ‘Metal Will Never Die – The Official Bootleg Box Set 1981-2010′ (4CD) Cherry Red Records

SERIOUS BLACK ‘Vengeance Is Mine’ AFM Records

SHARK ISLAND ‘S’cool Bus Deluxe’ Deko Entertainment

JOHN SLOMAN ‘Two Rivers’

SOFT CELL ‘*Happiness Not Included’

SPACE ELEVATOR ‘Persona Non Grata’ On Stage Records

Spiritualized ‘Everything Was Beautiful’

TEARS FOR FEARS ‘Tipping Point’ Concord Records

TYGERS OF PAN TANG ‘A New Heartbeat’ (EP) Mighty Music

ROBBY VALENTINE ‘The Black Dog’

THE VIBRATORS ‘The Albums 1985-1990′ (5CD) Cherry Red Records

March

4th

BAND OF HORSES ‘Things Are Great’ BMG

KRIS BARRAS BAND ‘Death Valley Paradise’

CROWBAR ‘Zero And below’ Entertainment One Records

THE FLOWER KINGS ‘By Royal Decree’ InsideOut

Wolfgang Flur 9ex-KRATWERK) ‘Magazine 1′

MARILLION ‘An Hour Before It’s Dark’ earMusic

MIDNIGHT ‘Let There Be Witchery’ Metal Blade Records

SABATON ‘The War To End All Wars’, on March 4 via Nuclear Blast

STEREOPHONICS ‘Oochya!’

TY TABOR (KING’S X) ‘Shades’ Rat Pak Records

WARRIOR SOUL ‘Out On Bail’ Cargo

11th

BRYAN ADAMS ‘So Happy It Hurts’ BMG

THE BOO RADLEYS ‘Keep On Falling’

EDGE OF FOREVER ‘The Days Of Future Past – The Remasters’ (re-issue) Frontiers

FIND ME ‘Lightning In A Bottle’ Frontiers

Franz Ferdinand ‘Domino, Hits To The Head’

GHOST ‘Impera’ Loma Vista Recordings

Steve Grimmett’s Grim Reaper ‘Reaping The Whirlwind – Live British Steel Festival 2018′

HOUSE OF SHAKIRA ‘Lint XXV’ (re-issue) Frontiers

NEW HORIZON ‘Gate of the Gods’ Frontiers

RADIOACTIVE ‘X.X.X.’ Frontiers

RUST ‘N’ RAGE ‘One for the Road’ Frontiers

The Undertones ‘Dig What You Need’ (best of 2019 onwards)

18th

RONNIE ATKINS ‘Make It Count’ Frontiers

DARK FUNERAL ‘We are the Apocalypse’ Century Media

FEEDER ‘Torpedo’ Big Teeth Music

FM ‘Thirteen’ Frontiers

COLIN HAY ‘Now and the Evermore’

HELL IN THE CLUB ‘Kamikaze – 10 Years in the Slums’ (EP) Frontiers

HOUSE OF SHAKIRA ‘Lint – 25th Anniversary Edition’ Frontiers

IRON MAIDEN ‘The Number of the Beast’ (40th anniversary cassette edition)

Little Caesar ‘American Dream’ Deko Entertainment (re-issue)

Moonlight Haze ‘Animus’ Scarlet Records

CHIP Z’NUFF ‘Perfectly Imperfect’ Frontiers

PLAYGROUNDED ‘The Death Of Death’ Pelagic Records

KEITH RICHARDS ‘Main Offender’ (30th anniversary Super Deluxe Edition)

SHEWOLF S/T Frontiers

SHINING BLACK ‘Postcards FromThe End Of The World’ Frontiers

SIGN X ‘Back To Eden’ Pride & Joy Music

Stabbing Westward ‘Chasing Ghosts’ COP International Records

Ronni Le Tekrø (TNT) ‘Bigfoot TV’ TBC Records via Cargo Records

TYR ‘Live’ (2CD/DVD) Metal Blade Records

VON HERTZEN BROTHERS ‘Red Alert in the Blue Forest’ Doing Being Music

FRANK ZAPPA ‘The Mothers 1971′ (8CD box set) Zappa Records

20th

WEEZER ‘SZNZ: Spring’ (EP)

25th

RICK ALTZI ‘All Eyes On Me’ RA Music

BOMBER ‘Nocturnal Creatures’ Napalm Records

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS ‘The Garden’ Escape Music

Confidential ‘Devil Inside’ Massacre Records

D’Ercole ‘Quantum 8′ Rock Company Records

Tom DeLuca ‘Street Rock’ MelodicRock Classics

8 KALACAS ‘Fronteras’ Atomic Fire Records

FAMILY ‘A Song For Me’ (reissue) Cherry Red Records

HARDCORE SUPERSTAR ‘Abrakadabra’ Golden Robot Records

LITTLE AMERICA ‘Anthology’ (2CD) MelodicRock Classics

Mandoki Soulmates ‘Music Is The Greatest Unifier: Hungarian Pictures Live’

PLACEBO ‘Never Let Me Go’

RECKLESS LOVE ‘Turborider’ AFM Records

Michael Romeo ‘War of the Worlds Pt.2′ InsideOut

JOHN SLOMAN ‘Two Rivers’

TERRA NOVA King Records

TINDERSTICKS ‘Past Imperfect: The Best of Tindersticks ’92-’21′

LESLIE WEST ‘Legacy: A Tribute To Leslie West’ Provogue Records

April

1st

DARE ‘Road To Eden’ Legend Records

EVIL INVADERS ‘Shattering Reflection’ Napalm Records

The Hellacopters ‘Eyes Of Oblivion’ Nuclear Blast

MESHUGGAH ‘Immutable’ Atomic Fire Records

NORTHLANE ‘Obsidian’ Believe

ALDO NOVA ‘The Life And Times Of Eddie Gage’

Pattern-Seeking Animals ‘Only Passing Through’ InsideOut Music

RED HOT CHILLI PEPPERS ‘Unlimited Love’ Warner Records

SATAN ‘Earth Infernal’ Metal Blade Records

Trick Or Treat ‘Creepy Symphonies’ Scarlet Records

WOLF ‘Shadowland’ Century Media

6th

KID ROCK ‘Bad Reputation’

8th

Aerosmith ’1971: The Road Starts Here’

ANGEL NATION ‘Antares’ Inner Wound Recordings

AOR ‘L.A. Suspicion’ Perris Records

BLACK SWAN ‘Generation Mind’ Frontiers

JACK BROADBENT ‘Ride’ Crows Feet Records

ENVY OF NONE S/T Kscope Records (features ALEX LIFESON)

FIRST SIGNAL ‘Closer to the Edge’ Frontiers

FORTUNE ‘Level Ground’ Frontiers

HALLAS ‘Isle Of Wisdom’ Napalm Records

INGLORIOUS ‘MMXXI – Live at the Phoenix’ Frontiers

DOM MARTIN ‘A Savage Life’

PAPA ROACH ‘Ego Trip’ New Noize Records

JOE SATRIANI ‘The Elephants of Mars’ earMUSIC

TREAT ‘The Endgame’ Frontiers

JACK WHITE ‘Fear of the Dawn’ Third Man Records

11th

OLIVER WAKEMAN ‘Collections’ (3CD)

15th

DEVICIOUS ‘Black Heart’ Pride & Joy Music

FOZZY ‘Boombox’ Mascot Records/Mascot Label Group

MONUMENTS ‘In Stasis’

NAZARETH ‘Surviving The Law’ Frontiers

AXEL RUDI PELL ‘Lost XXIII’ Steamhammer/SPV Records

POISON ROSE ‘Little Bang’ Frontiers

SUZI QUATRO ‘Back to the Spotlight’ (2CD) Cherry Red Records

RONNIE ROMERO ‘Raised On Radio’ Frontiers (covers album)

RUSH ‘Moving Pictures – 40th Anniversary’ UMe/Mercury Records

SEMBLANT ‘Vermilion Eclipse’ Frontiers

STONE BROKEN ‘Revelation’

EDGAR WINTER & FRIENDS ‘Brother Johnny’

19th

ALDO NOVA ‘Aldo Nova 2.0 Reloaded’ (3CD set)

22nd

AUDREY HORNE ‘Devil’s Bell’ Napalm Records

BOWLING FOR SOUP ‘Pop Drunk Snot Bread’ Brando/Que-So Records

PAUL BRADY ‘Maybe So’ Proper Records

DOROTHY ‘Gifts From The Holy Ghost’ Roc Nation

JOHN ELEFANTE ‘The Amazing Grace’ Escape Records

Fontaines D.C. ‘Skinty Fia’

MASON HILL ‘Live In Glasgow’

OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW ‘Paint This Town’

FERNANDO PERDOMO ‘Out To Sea 4′ Cherry Red Records

PRIMUS ‘Conspiranoid’ (EP) Atco Records

RADIANT ‘Written By Life’ Massacre Records

UDO DIRKSCHNEIDER ‘My Way’ Atomic Fire Records (covers album)

SKULL FIST ‘Paid In Full’ Atomic Fire Records

GEORGE THOROGOOD ‘The Original George Thorogood’ UMe

VARIOUS ‘Dave Brock Presents Space Rock’ (3CD) Cherry Red Records

THE WATERBOYS ‘All Souls Hill’

GINGER WILDHEART ‘The Pessimist’s Companion’

XENTRIX (re-issues) Cherry Red Records

23rd (Record Store Day)

Kirk Hammett (METALLICA) ‘Portal’ (instrumemntal EP)

29th

BLOC PARTY ‘Alpha Games’ BMG

Bill Bruford ‘Making A Song and Dance: A Complete Career Collection’ (6CD boxset) BMG

ROGER CHAPMAN ‘Moth To A Flame – The Recordings 1979-1981′ (5CD) Cherry Red Records

CRASHDIET ‘Automaton’ Crusader Records/Golden Robot Records

GUNSHY ‘Mayday’ Lions Pride Music

KAIP ‘Urskog’ InsideOutMusic

MEMPHIS MAY FIRE ‘Remade In Misery’

NEKTAR ‘Sounds Like This’ Cherry Red Records

WILLIE NELSON ‘A Beautiful Time’

TED NUGENT ‘Detroit Muscle’

RAMMSTEIN ‘Zeit’

RECKLESS ‘T.M.T.T.80′ Sneakout Records

SAFFIRE ‘Taming The Hurricane’ Rock Of Angels Records

SECRET SPHERE ‘Live Blood’ (EP) Frontiers

SPARKS ‘Balls’, ‘Lil’ Beethoven’ & ‘Hello Young Lovers’ (re-issues) BMG

THUNDER ‘Dopamine’ (double album)

ROBIN TROWER ‘No More Worlds To Conquer’ Provogue

TYSONDOG ‘Midnight’ From The Vaults Records

WATAIN ‘The Agony & Ecstasy of Watain’ Nuclear Blast

ANN WILSON ‘Firece Bliss’

NEIL YOUNG ‘Official Release Series Volume 4′ Reprise Records

May

6th

ARCADE FIRE ‘We’ Columbia

BELLE & SEBASTIAN ‘A Bot Of Previous’

THE BLACK CROWES ’1972′ (EP) Silver Arrow Records

BLACK EYE S/T Frontiers

THE FEELING ‘Loss, Hope, Love’ Island

FOZZY ‘Boombox’

PETER GOALBY ‘I Will Come Running’

HALESTORM ‘Back From The Dead’ Atlantic Records

Jani Liimatainen ‘My Father’s Son’ Frontiers

LILLIAN AXE ‘Psalms For Eternity’ Global Rock Records

MOTOR SISTER ‘Get Off’ Metal Blade Records

GRAHAM NASH ‘Graham Nash: Live’

OU ‘One’ Inside Out

PURE REASON REVOLUTION ‘Above Cirrus’ Inside Out

KATE RUSBY ’30: Many Happy Returns’ Pure Records

SABATON ‘The Symphony To End All Wars’ Nuclear Blast

Timothy B. Schmit ‘Day By Day’

SILVERSTEIN ‘Misery Made Me’ UNFD Records

SIMPLE PLAN ‘Harder Than It Looks’

JEFF SCOTT SOTO ‘Complicated’ Frontiers

STARCHASER S/T Frontiers

TERROR ‘Pain Into Power’ Pure Noise Records

THREE DAYS GRACE ‘Explosions’

13th

THE BIG DEAL ‘First Bite’ Frontiers

THE BLACK KEYS ‘Dropout Boogie’

GRAHAM BONNET BAND ‘Day Out In Nowhere’ Frontiers

CORELEONI ‘II’ Atomic Fire Records

FLORENCE & THE MACHINE ‘Dance Fever’

JUNKYARD DRIVE ‘Electric Love’ Mighty Music

PINEAPPLE THIEF ‘Give It Back (Rewired)’ KScope

THE ROLLING STONES ‘Live At The El Mocambo’ UMe

SKILLS ‘Different Worlds’ Frontiers

THE SMILE ‘A Light For Attracting Attention’

VISIONS OF ATLANTIS ‘Pirates’ Napalm Records

ZERO HOUR ‘Agenda 21′ Frontiers

20th

ANVIL ‘Impact Is Imminent’ AFM Records

IAN DANTER ‘Rule Of Three’

EVERGREY ‘A Heratless Portrait’ Napalm Records

CRAIG FINN ‘A Legacy Of Rentals’

HANSON ‘Red Green Blue’

JAMES LABRIE (DREAM THEATER) ‘Beautiful Shade Of Grey’ InsideOut

THE LICKERISH QUARTET ‘Threesome Vol.3′ (EP)

LONERIDER ‘Sundown’ Escape Music

MOBY ‘Reprise – Remixes’ Deutsche Grammophon

SHAMELESS ‘So Good, You Should…’ Pride & Joy Music

MAVIS STAPLES & LEVON HELM ‘Carry Me Home’

TRAIN ‘AM Gold’ Columbia

MIKE TRAMP ‘Stand Your Ground’ Target Records

CHUCK WRIGHT (QUIET RIOT) ‘Chuck Wright’s Sheltering Sky’ Cleopatra Records

27th

Coheed and Cambria ‘Vaxis II: A Window of the Waking Mind’

CREMATORY ‘Inglorious Darkness’ Napalm Records

DECAPITATED ‘Cancer Culture’ Nuclear Blast

DEF LEPPARD ‘Diamond Star Halos’

LIAM GALLAGHER ‘C’mon You Know’ Warner Records

LIAM GALLAGHER ‘Down By The River Thames’ Warner Records

JAMES HOUSE ‘The LA Tapes: Classic Rock Years’ MelodicRock Classics

Cliff Magness ‘Road to gold – Official Colletion of Lost Demos’ MelodicRock Classics

SIMON McBRIDE ‘The Fighter’

Michael Schenker ‘Universal’ Atomic Fire Records

SEX PISTOLS ‘The Original Recordings’ UMG

SIN69 S/T Rock Of Angels Records

SPARKS ‘Exotic Creatures of the Deep’ & ‘The Seduction of Ingmar Bergman’ (re-issues) BMG

STRANGEWAYS ‘Complete Recordings Vol. 1 1985-1994′ Cherry Red Records

SVEN GALI ‘Bombs And Battlescars’ RFL Records

TAKING BACK SUNDAY ‘Tell All Your Friends’ (20th anniversary reissue) Craft Recordings

TERRA NOVA ‘Ring That Bell’ Lion Music

MARK TREMONTI ‘Sings Frank Sinatra’

TROLLFEST ‘Flamingo Overlord’ Napalm Records

VARIOUS ‘Deep 70s: Underrated Cuts From a Misunderstood Decade’ (4CD) Demon Music Group

June

3rd

BATTLELORE ‘The Return of the Shadow’ Napalm Records

THE CRUEL INTENTIONS ‘Venomous Anonymous’

CROBOT ‘Feel This’ Mascot Records/Mascot Label Group

IAN DANTER ‘Rule Of Three’ Cherry Red Records

DRIVE-BY-TRUCKERS ‘Welcome 2 Club XIII’

THE FIXX ‘Every Five Seconds’

GWAR ‘The New Dark Ages’

KREATOR ‘Hate Über Alles’ Nuclear Blast

PRINCE ‘Prince and The Revolution: Live’

10th

ABBA ‘Box Set’ (10LP)

ASIA ‘Asia in Asia Live at the Budokan, Tokyo, 1983′ BMG

BLOODY HEELS ‘Rotten Romance’ Frontiers

DOWNSET ‘Maintain’ Nuclear Blast

DREAM THEATER ‘The Number of the Beast’ InsideOut Music

William DuVall ’11.12.21 Live-in-studio Nashville’ DVL Recordings

GRACE ‘Hope’ Frontiers

PATTY GRIFFIN ‘TAPE’ (features ROBERT PLANT)

HEART ATTACK ‘Negative Sun’ Atomic Fire Records

ELTON JOHN ‘Madman Across The Water’ UMC EMI (50th anniversary edition)

KISS ‘Off The Soundboard: Live at Donington 1996′

KUL SHAKER ’1st Congregational Church Of Eternal Love And Free Hugs’ (double album)

MICHAEL MONROE ‘I Live Too Fast To Die Young’

MOTIONLESS IN WHITE ‘Scoring The End of the World’

THE ROLLING STONES ‘Licked Live In NYC’ Mercury Studios

THE ROLLING STONES ‘The Rolling Stones Singles 1963-1966′ ABKCO Records

SEVENTH WONDER ‘The Testament’ Frontiers

SIDEBURN ‘Fired Up’ Massacre Records

THE TANGENT ‘Songs From The Hard Shoulder’ InsideOut

Joanne Shaw Taylor ‘Blues From The Heart Live’ KTBA Record

VENUS 5 Frontiers

11th

MY SOLILOQUY ‘Fu3ion’

17th

THE BEACH BOYS ‘Sounds of Summer’ (expanded re-issue)

CIVIL WAR ‘Invaders’ Napalm Records

DAN REED NETWORK ‘Let’s Hear It For The King’ Drakkar Entertainment (delayed from March 4)

DERAPS Metalville Records

DRIVE AT NIGHT ‘Echoes Od An Era’ Pride & Joy Music

FOALS ‘Life Is Yours’

HIT THE GROUND RUNNIN’ ‘Lost In translation’ Pride & Joy Music

ICONIC ‘Second Skin’ Frontiers

JORN ‘Over The Horizon’ Frontiers

LAZARUS DREAM ‘Lifeline’ Pride & Joy Records

LIT ‘Tastes Like Gold’

TUNGSTEN ‘Bliss’ Arising Empire

VYPERA ‘Eat Your Heart Out’ Frontiers

WAX ON WATER ‘The Drip’

WAYWARD SONS ‘Score Settled’ (EP) Frontiers

WIND ROSE ‘Warfront’ Napalm Records

18th *Record Store Day*

Slash Feat. Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators ‘Live at Studios 60′

24th

A STORY UNFOLDS S/T MelodicRock Classics

ALESTORM ‘Seventh Rum Of A Seventh Rum’ Napalm Records

ALEXISONFIRE ‘Otherness’ Dine Alone Records

BABE RUTH ‘Darker Than Blue – The Harvest Years 1972-1975′ (3CD Box Set) Cherry Red Records

Chris Barr & Don Cromwell ‘A Story Unfolds’ MelodicRock Classics

Paul DiAnno´s Battlezone ‘Killers in the Battlezone (1986-2000)’

BLACK STONE CHERRY ‘Live From The Royal Albert Hall… Y’All’ Mascot Records/Mascot Label Group

CHICKEN SHACK ‘Crying Won’t Help You Now – The Deram Years 1971-1974′ (3CD Box Set) Cherry Red Records

DEVIL’S TRAIN ‘Ashes & Bones’ Rock Of Angels Records

FALLEN SANCTUARY ‘Terranova’ AFM Records

The Hellacopters ‘Through The Eyes Of The Hellacopters’ (EP)

KISS THE VYPER ‘ Hope You Like It’ Metalapolis Records

CHRISTINE McVIE ‘Songbird (A Solo Collection)’

CHRIS OUSEY/STEVE MANN ‘Is Anybody Listening’ Escape Music

FRANKY PEREZ ‘Crossing the Great Divide’

PORCUPINE TREE ‘Closure/Continuation’ Music For Nations

SPIROGYRA ‘The Future Won’t Be Long – The Albums 1971-1973′ (3CD Box Set) Cherry Red Records

SUPERSONIC BLUES MACHINE ‘Voodoo Nation’ Provogue/Mascot Label Group

RIK SWINN ‘Strum’ MelodicRock Classics

TUNGSTEEN ‘Bliss’ Arising Empire

TYGERS OF PAN TANG ‘The Wreck-age – Burning in the Shade 1985-1987′ Cherry Red Records

VICTORIOUS ‘Dinosaur Warfare Pt. 2 – The Great Ninja War’ Napalm Records

WIKKID STARR ‘Return To Glory’ Lions Pride Music

TBA

DEADLY CIRCUS FIRE ‘EXTINCTION’


October-December 2021

July 2022 – December 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.

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Recent (last 30 days)


Gig review: DAUGHTRY – Islington Assembly Hall, London – 13 June 2022

 DAUGHTRY- Islington Assembly Hall, London- 13 June 2022

Though not as big as in the USA, former American Idol contestant Chris Daughtry and his eponymous band have gradually built a following in the UK, to the extent that previous London shows had been at the Roundhouse and Hammersmith Apollo.

So it was somewhat a surprise that he announced a one-off London date at the 800 capacity Islington Assembly Hall as part of a brief European tour, which also saw an appearance at Download, where inconveniently he was on at the same time as musical bedfellows Shinedown. Here the 1930s venue was packed to the gills and combined with the start of a mini heatwave this meant a few casualties and the side doors had to be opened.

 DAUGHTRY- Islington Assembly Hall, London- 13 June 2022

His (their?) musical history has been a chequered one – after a first three albums of stirring radio-friendly modern rock, perhaps sensing changing musical trends, the subsequent two saw a poppier, guitar-led  approach that left me cold. However my curiosity was piqued by hearing a couple of new songs last year that constituted a return to his roots, and indeed the resulting album ‘Dearly Beloved’ is probably the consistently heaviest he has yet done.

No less than the first six numbers were from the album and though the rather sprawling, hook-free ‘Desperation’ opened the night, as on the record, ‘World On Fire’ – featuring an intro delivered with a loud hailer was extremely convincing and ‘Change Is Coming’ and the title track showed off the heavier direction. It was also noticeable that lead guitarist Josh Steely who I sensed had become increasingly marginalised had regained his mojo- and his hair had grown to match.

 DAUGHTRY- Islington Assembly Hall, London- 13 June 2022

However it was hard for the solid but anonymous band members to get much of a look in, bathed in darkness much of the time while bright spotlights were on the lean, shaven headed frontman. He is a charismatic figure with a strong voice whose sonorous tones while speaking mean that people hang on his every word.

The pace was unrelenting until a couple of solo numbers in ‘Cry For Help’ and finally an old song in the  gorgeous melodies of ‘Waiting For Superman’ (one of the few good songs from his ‘Baptized’ album), before the first of those anthemic  favourites from his multimillion selling debut in ‘Its Not Over’.

 DAUGHTRY- Islington Assembly Hall, London- 13 June 2022

However it was then back to newer and more intense material, such as ‘The Victim’, and the song that had initially revived my interest in ‘Heavy Is The Crown’ packed a substantial punch especially in a spectacular band ending,  before an old favourite in ‘September’, the crowd taking over from the start, concluded the main set.

He returned alone as ‘Home’ sparked another big singalong before the band kicked in for another of those first album megahits In ‘Over You’, but in a final surprise, he urged people to jump up and down to the Shinedown-ish ‘Asylum’ the heaviest track on the album, indeed probably of the band’s career. At the risk of stereotyping, I suspect many of the predominantly female audience, who looked more of a pop audience to me, might have preferred something rather more melodic and radio friendly.

 DAUGHTRY- Islington Assembly Hall, London- 13 June 2022

The gig did come with the downside of an excessive focus on the new album- swapping out a couple of the ten tracks for old favourites might have made for a more balanced set. Nevertheless it was nevertheless great to see Daughtry return to rock roots – and a privilege to witness it in such a small venue.

Review and Photos by Andy Nathan


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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)


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