Gig review: CHRISTOPHER CROSS – Bristol Beacon, 20 May 2026

CHRISTOPHER CROSS - Bristol Beacon, 20 May 2026

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

Of course, since that time, the musical style he peddled has been dubbed – terribly in my view – “yacht rock” along with contemporaries like Daryl Hall and John Oates,  The Doobie Brothers and even Toto.  The importance of that debut was emphasised tonight.

But first, special guest Chris Difford co-founder of  beloved pop rockers Squeeze.

This was a masterclass in reportage and good humour as Chris recounted events from fifty years ago mixing with the likes of Mark Knopfler, Freddie Mercury and Sting.  They made the arenas whilst Squeeze remained at the Oxford Arms in Deptford.

CHRIS DIFFORD - Bristol Beacon, 20 May 2026

There was also reference to their time on Top Of The Pops rubbing shoulders with the likes of Peters and Lee.  The former was apparently “well hung”.

The hilarious if slightly self-deprecatory banter masked a masterly repertoire and as expected his setlist majored on a mini Squeeze greatest hits opening with ‘Take Me I’m Yours’ and rallying with ‘Cool For Cats’.  He was accompanied by guitarist/pedal steel player Melvin Duffy.

CHRISTOPHER CROSS - Bristol Beacon, 20 May 2026

Cross’ set was also, and inevitably,  punctuated by the familiar “hits” but there was enough here to suggest the world didn’t stop in 1980.  The follow up ‘Another Page’ yielded three songs tonight whilst the non-album track ‘Arthur’s Theme’ sums up Cross’ melodic appeal (although partly co-written with Burt Bacharach).

The 1990s was something of a wasteland for Cross in terms of continued recognition but tonight he played a few key pieces from the following decade or so.

With the setback of Covid 19, when he actually experienced complications from catching the virus (and the pandemic also stymied a planned 40th anniversary tour), Cross has steadily regained his mojo  We last saw him in the UK touring with Toto in early 2025.

The band did full justice to Cross’ back catalogue tonight with the trio of girl singers and Andy Suzuki adding a jazzy hue on sax and EWI (Electronic Wind Instrument).

CHRISTOPHER CROSS - Bristol Beacon, 20 May 2026

For erudite rockers. the best was saved to last with “Ride Like The Wind’ a showcase for Cross’ guitar talents, the Beacon crowd finally stirred into action.

I sold my Christopher Cross album many years ago but tonight was a reminder of its ascendancy, and potency, in terms of melodic pop rock and songwriting artistry.

Review and photos by David Randall 

All Right/Never Be The Same/I Really Don’t Know Anymore/Poor Shirley/Minstrel Gigolo/Dreamers/Spinning/Sailing/Think Of Laura/Back Of My Mind/Simple/The Light Is On/Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)/No Time For Talk/Say You’ll Be Mine/Ride Like The Wind

CHRISTOPHER CROSS - Bristol Beacon, 20 May 2026


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: CLAIRE HAMILL BAND – A House Among The Trees

cb

Bandcamp [Release date 25.04.26]

Claire Hamill, the grand dame of British folk, rock and prog, who you may well have never heard of releases her 12th solo album since 1971. There are not many female survivors from this period and certainly not many releasing fresh inspiring material such as can be found on this album.

Claire has a unique voice, one which was compared to Joni Mitchell back in the day. In my opinion, and I could be wrong but I would say she could well have been an influence on a young Kate Bush. You would think she is in her early twenties listening to her vocals on these tracks, it has a freshness and clarity which defies her maturity

On first listening, toward the end of the album I was thinking it had a sixties psychedelic folky feel to it a la David MacWilliams, and I still hold that thought on quite a few of the tracks, like Don’t Go Home Without Me and All We Have Is Now, and opening track The Beautiful which is not surprising considering her back ground. But it has so much more depth to it than that.

I must admit, that although I knew the name, I didn’t know a lot about the artist or her prolific output over the years. She released her first album One House Left Standing at the tender age of 17, in 1971.

I imagine she was featured on Old Grey Whistle Test quite a few times. Then went on to release a slew of acclaimed albums including October, Stage Door Johnnies and Abracadabra, and toured with John Martyn, Jethro Tull, Procul Harum and King Crimson. She collaborated with Steve Howe, Jon and Vangelis and Wishbone Ash.

Then after another solo album Touchpaper in 1984 she released Voices which pre-empted ambient music by featuring a lyricless or wordless vocal album. Exhausted yet? I feel like I’m running up a big hill. In the 2000’s she released five albums not including this one, but including The Lost And The Lovers and Troubadour in 2025. She was also lead vocalist on two albums with prog rock band Fragile.

My favourite track on this album is ‘Snakeskin Lover’, which has a rhumba style rhythm to it. The following track ‘The Werewolf And The Maiden’ is classic folk prog with unconventional vocal melodies and an eastern European vibe in the rhythms. Claire’s voice is a little too far down in the mix for my liking and this continues through a few of the remaining tracks. A great little rocker follows with ‘Intoxicating’, with harmonica and honky-tonk style piano, courtesy of Mark Abrahams powering the track along. I don’t know if this a single but it should be.

Some beautiful soaring vocals dominate ‘Up To The Moon’. Claire has gathered some great musicians around her. I don’t know if they are her regular band, or just for this album, but they are: Sean Elliot, electric and acoustic guitars, John Nicholls bass and Sonny Flint, drums percussion bass, keyboards, harmonica, acoustic and electric guitars, and he also co wrote two songs, the rest being Claire Hamill compositions. The band create an understated, but very complementary foil for Hamills vocals, creating a smorgasbord of musical concoctions taking in 60’s 70’s jazz, folk and prog

12 tracks in all. If you are already a fan buy it immediately you won’t be disappointed, if you are new to her but wondering what is the connection between Joni Mitchell and Kate Bush, check this out, you might find the answer to your question. Me, I’m going to check her back catalogue, I’m a bit ashamed that I haven’t done so before. ****

Review by Andy Sharrocks


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: CASSIDY PARIS – The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 14 May 2026

CASSIDY PARIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 14 May 2026

A lot has happened to young Australian rocker Cassidy Paris in the 21 months since she was last at this venue. Last spring, days after I saw her supporting Harem Scarem, a UK tour suddenly collapsed amid distressing personal circumstances. Luckily she has bounced back from adversity and channelled some of those experiences into her second full length album ‘Bittersweet’, released late last year. Better late than never, she has travelled back halfway across the world and this May is seeing a full UK tour.

I was always keen to attend, not least as the atmosphere at The Cavern is always among the best, with fans of the acts mixing with pub regulars and familiar South London-based musicians in this cosiest of places. A further enticement though was a first chance to see Powell-Payne, the Welsh band who also released a self-titled album on Frontiers over a year ago. I’m delighted they are starting to take a live show on the road as we need some new names to add to a relatively short list of touring UK based melodic rockers.
CASSIDY PARIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 14 May 2026

After train difficulties making my way across South West London, I was relieved to arrive in good time for their set which opened with a very impressive pair in ‘Better Days’, with its Journey-esque smoothness, and the superb, though naggingly familiar, chorus hook of ‘No Escape’ with the soaring voice of Adam Payne, the band member most familiar to me for his work with Serpentine and Airrace’s superb swansong album ‘Untold Stories’.

Their repertoire though is very diverse, taking in the ballad ‘The Storm’, and ‘Questions’ with Aydan Watkins’ bluesy guitar intro. A couple of songs, ‘Voices’ and ‘Staring At The Sun’ were substantially heavier and for me Adam’s voice his voice struggled to cut through, though this may just have been the mix from my stool too close to the monitors.

CASSIDY PARIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 14 May 2026

He asked us how many people were familiar with Harem Scarem to a disappointingly thin response, but their cover of ‘Hard To Love’ was truly excellent with Aydan  particularly impressive carrying off the nuances of Pete Lesperance’s guitar tone. Indeed the last third of the set was the best as ‘The Distance Between Us’ built into a lengthy epic and ‘Girl Like You’ had big hooks, saw drummer Mark Powell give every part of his kit a good workout and even a Vega-like ‘yay-yay-oh’ crowd singalong. So although their set was a mixed bag, it was a very promising one in the early days of their live career.
CASSIDY PARIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 14 May 2026

There was an admirably quick changeover to allow Cassidy Paris on stage at a reasonable hour. Her striking image initially topped off by a WPC’s helmet (as we no longer call them in these less gender-specific times) she opened with the massive, Romeo’s Daughter-like melodic hook of ‘Walking On Fire’ from her debut album, before moving with scarcely a pause into new songs – ‘Wannabe’ which was splendidly spiky and slightly punkish, the autobiographical ‘Stronger’, playing guitar too, and the title of the tour, ‘Finish What We Started’.

She was a whirling dervish of energy while a revamped line up also seemed tighter with dad Steve Janevski restored to his more usual lead guitar position and another seasoned pro in Pete Newdeck adding crisp drumming, backing vocals and an entertaining series of grins.
CASSIDY PARIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 14 May 2026

Bolstered by taped keyboards, Cassidy poured heart and soul into ballad ‘Here I Am’ while ‘Midnight Desire’ was more musically intricate. Despite being only 23, she is now a veteran of nine years performing and a very personable frontwoman, even apologising for erroneously addressing the Raynes Park venue as nearby ‘Wimbledon’ last time out (I can guarantee no-one would remember, less still hold it against her) and start an ‘oggy-oggy-oggy’ (or was it ‘Aussie’?) chant.

New song ‘Butterfly’ was a grower and there was a surprise moment with a very good cover of Danger Danger’s ‘I Still Think About You’, but my favourites were probably the massive yet contemporary hooks of ‘Like I Never Loved You’ and the Vixen-adjacent  ‘Danger’, both from her more AOR-ish debut.
CASSIDY PARIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 14 May 2026

The current release got more of an airing with ‘Brand New Day’ and ‘Getting Better’, either side of Adam Payne returning to duet on ‘Nothing Left To Lose’, the two bouncing off each other brilliantly on another more modern sounding song, even reminding me a little of Papa Roach’s ‘Last Resort’.

There was one final twist as the last song seemed oddly familiar and eventually I realised it was a cover of W.E.T’s ‘Watch The Fire’ which she has just recorded as part of Frontiers’ 30th anniversary celebrations. A 70 minute set had truly flown by to the extent that my thought as the gig wore on was ‘how soon can I do this again’? The good news is that after this tour, there are further opportunities to do so at Maid of Stone and in the autumn at the 100 Club.

CASSIDY PARIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 14 May 2026

Review and Photos by Andy Nathan

Album review (Bittersweet, 2025)


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 : FAITH NYC – Love Is A Wish Away

Bandcamp [Release date : 15.05.26]

Faith NYC is immensely talented singer/ writer/ bass player, Felice Rosser.

“Felice Rosser brought her Detroit ears to punk, having been teethed on Motown. Reggae became a powerful influence too” (Rolling Stone/ New York Times music critic Lucy Sante).

“Felice’s ‘commanding, muscular voice’ reminds him of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, with stylings reminiscent of guitarist Joan Armatrading” (Wire music critic, Michael A. Gonzalez).

“hints of Sly, or Sly and Robbie, or the Doors or Nina Simone in the Faith NYC blueprint” (Oral historian Bud Kliment).

‘The sound and feel of authentic, funky rock’n’roll’ (Chris Frantz, Talking Heads)

These are only a few of the complimentary comments being made in reference to Felice Rosser’s fourth and latest album, Love Is A Wish Away.

Rosser moved from the USA’s midwest to the Big Apple (is it still called that?) in her youth.

Impressed and inspired by what she encountered there – punk’s DIY attitude, Rock & Roll, Funk, Free Jazz, Dub, Reggae and the new Hip Hop scene – it all became part of her musical language.

She joined all female reggae band, Sistren, before forming Faith NYC, part of Vernon (Living Colour) Reid’s collective, Black Rock Coalition (BRC).

Known widely now for her powerful and emotional voice, Rosser has clearly distilled all those influences into a single unique sound on her latest album, still finding subtlety in the strength of material like the radio-friendly ‘Love In A Silent Way’ and ‘Can I Make It Up To You’.

‘Overpass’ and ‘Everything Is All Around’ dig deep into rock’n’roll’s history, where Rosser reminds us that the genre’s roots lead way back to R’n’B, Gospel, Blues and Jazz.

It’s all been assembled with skill and feeling by producer/ guitarist Justin Adams. With Love Is A Wish Away, he’s helped Rosser form and shape all those influences into her own likeness. ****

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 : THE 5th DIMENSION – Let The Sunshine In – The Soul City and Bell Albums (6CD Boxset)

Cherry Red [Release date 29.05.26]

The 5th Dimension, five vocalists, three male, two female, burst onto the US music scene in 1966.

Nobody comes from nowhere of course, no matter what the media headlines might say.

Each one, Jimmy Davis, Marilyn McCoo, Florence LaRue, Ron Townson had paid their dues in the entertainment business before being brought together in the mid sixties by professional photographer/ songwriter …Lamont McLemore.

That undefined border between rock’n’roll and the classy, poppified RnB of The 5th Dimension was seldom crossed. And so, if you’re a rock fan, its was almost like The 5th Dimension’s elegant, soulful harmonies existed in a parallel universe, one you only tuned into if you turned the dial in the wrong direction.

But eventually the boundary began to blur. Over the course of an 8 year career, the quintet released ten albums on the Soul City and Bell music labels. Each release got them closer to the post-racial crossover success that Motown’s Berry Gordy had imagined for his stars, climbing the Billboard best seller charts as well as the RnB charts. Six of the ten going gold in the process.

And they are all here, remastered and expanded to include more than two dozen bonus tracks.

Disc 1 : Up Up And Away (1967) and The Magic Garden (1968)
Disc 2 : Stone Soul Picnic (1968) and The Age Of Aquarius (1969)
Disc 3 : Portrait (1970) and Love’s Lines, Angles and Rhymes (1971)
Disc 4 : Live! (1970)
Disc 5 : Individually and Collectively (1971) and Living Together Growing Together (1972)
Disc 6 : Soul And Inspiration (1974)

The band’s closest ties… the ones that led them to lasting fame were equally divided “above and below the fold”.

Below the fold was producer, Bones Howe, a gifted technician who used the Wrecking Crew as his studio band, and did so on every 5th Dimension album through to 1975. (There’s a great article on TapeOp.com. Howe tells a fascinating story about Stone Soul Picnic). He produced Elvis, Tom Waits, The Turtles, Sinatra, The Association, and many more.

Above the fold were the writers, Jimmy Webb (we reviewed his boxset some months ago). He wrote most of their first two albums. Most notably, ‘Up Up And Away’ the band’s first single and a no1 hit in the USA (and Grammy winner).

And Laura Nyro (who, incidentally, almost became lead singer for Blood Sweat & Tears, gulp!). Four of her nine songs recorded by the band were massive chart hits, especially ‘Stone Soul Picnic’ and ‘Wedding Bell Blues’.

Many other writers – Bacharach & David, Asford & Simpson, Harry Nilsson, Neil Sedaka – contributed to the band’s success, but these two played the key roles.

In the years before Protools, skilful splicing was the name of the game.

Bones Howe put the two separate songs, ‘Aquarius’ and ‘Let The Sunshine In’ together in this manner for the band’s Age Of Aquarius album.

The technicalities of this fills a whole other Wiki page on its own.

But 2 became 1, the single sold 3 million and won a Grammy award.

The band’s sound has been described in complimentary tones by many.

David Brown (Rolling Stone) : “To listen to the 5th Dimension was to hear a mélange of Pop, show-tunes, folk music, with flourishes of Jazz, Soul, and a tinge of Gospel. If music were to sound like America, it might sound like the 5th Dimension”

Steve Huey (Allmusic) : “Their unique sound lay somewhere between smooth, elegant soul and straightforward, adult-oriented pop”.

Ken Shane (Popdose Online) : “The 1967 release, Magic Garden is an album very much of its time, but it is also completely timeless. It addresses serious issues in an accessible and adult manner, and is the essence of pop music, a classic of the genre. For me, Magic Garden is their peak”

The band has lost members in one way or another over the years, but continue on, led by remaining original, Florence LaRue. *****

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: VIRGINMARYS – Beyond The House of Fires

VIRGINMARYS - Beyond the House of Fires

Website [Release date 22.05.26]

The Virginmarys new album is both new and old, in that is their reinterpretation of their most recent album, 2024’s ‘Beyond the House of Fires’. This time around the Virginmarys – Ally Dickaty and Danny Dolan – go for an atmospheric sound; Pink Floyd, Muse and Neil Young, as opposed to the album’s original punk/alt rock sound.

On first listen you do need to check that this is indeed the Virginmarys you are listening to, as their usual punk bite and alt vibe are gone. In their place we have some wonderfully imaginative soundscapes, none more so than on opener ‘My Nettle’. This song, and all of the sings on here, don’t lose any of the bite they had on the original album, they just use a different musical path to still make the listener sit up and take notice.

The drums come into their own on ‘Urban Seagull’, as do the lyrics, which come through loud and clear. The bleak ‘There Ain’t No Future’ is another powerful, hard hitter in both lyrically and the passionate delivery of Ally Dickaty.

‘Lies, Lies, Lies’ has a Muse vibe, and again the piano and drums combine to great effect.

A brave move which works a treat! These reworkings – heavy on the piano, vocal arrangements and drums – will win them a whole new set of fans. If you think you knew the Virginmarys, think again. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie

22 May – Beuvry, France – Beaverfest
24 May – Kings Norton, United Kingdom – Breaking Bands Fest
28 May – Edinburgh – The Mash House
29 May – Northwich – Salty Dog
30 May – Wolverhampton – The Giffard
31 May – Leeds – Hyde Park Book Club
1 June – Barnoldswick – Barnoldswick Arts Centre
4 June – Tunbridge Wells – The Forum
5 June – Norwich – Waterfront Studio
6 June – London – The Grace
7 June – St Albans – The Horn

Tickets


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: LUKE JAMES WILLIAMS – Wax and Beans, Bury, 15 May 2026

This is the second time I’ve been to this venue, and I would highly recommend it for anybody in the Bury/Rochdale/Heywood area. Get to see an artist in an intimate setting whilst drinking coffee or alcohol.

The first time was for Elles Bailey, and it was rammed, this time there were a few less people there, but a great intimate atmosphere ensued. It was a bit like somebody playing a gig in your front room. And mentioning front rooms, the support was a local poet Col Anderson who did a poem about front rooms, or parlour rooms, which nobody goes into and everything sits pristine and untouched. He also read about twelve other poems with pithy observations of modern day life, including one a bout getting his dad stones for the first time in Amsterdam. All good stuff.

So, Luke James Williams, who has a new album out, Limes Hotel, which I fell in love with and reviewed recently, played about twelve songs mostly on his acoustic classical guitar with one on a uke. I think four were off his first album, and the rest from his new one. These included Strange Things We Are, Ready, Full Moon, Seeds, Flicker Of Light, Still In Bed and Punchbag, starting with Knocking For Reasons and finishing with Hollows and Branches. Every one a winner and every one received warmly. I couldn’t name a favourite, I loved them all, even the four I didn’t know.

gig2

Luke has a very amiable stage presence and pulls you into his seemingly quite forlorn world, but with a laugh on the side. I remembered whilst watching him, that I had meant to mention in my album review that he has a Yoda kind of way of saying sentences the wrong way round, which is quite intriguing as you have to listen to the second part of the sentence to realise where is was going with the first half.

He looked unassuming, a bit like a bank clerk, or a receptionist from a hotel, as on the front of his album. He sounded exactly like he did on the record, the songs delivered in an relaxed, unhurried sort of way. His voice carries a lot of emotion, and live doesn’t have as much as the Billy Bragg accent as I heard on the record.

A thoroughly enjoyable evening with a very unique artist.

Review by Andy Sharrocks


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 ROLLING STONES – In the Stars/Rough and Twisted

rs

I went to a gig in a record shop and as I was waiting for the artist to come on, I spied the new Stones single In The Stars, so it was my duty to buy it wasn’t it. I’ve been digging these cats since I was seven years old and have to buy whatever they release, good or bad.

I bunged the B side on first, Rough And Twisted and man I was living in a technicolour world again. The boys were back in town. Slide guitar, harmonica, honky tonk piano, raw Keith riffs, old school Jagger vocal melody, loosy goosy drumming. I’ve been saying to my long suffering wife for years, why don’t they just go back their roots and do blues and country, instead of all the cliched corporate rock they have been churning out. Of course they have done a bit of that over the years, but this is what I have been talking about. It is classic Stones, and for me the best thing I’ve heard since Start Me Up. Its even got a Jimmy Miller type production on it. New producer Andrew Watt is a clever boy, bringing out the best in the band and taking the production sound back to their best era.

I started with the B side because I had heard In The Stars a few times, and watched the video last night too. A clever A I creation with the Stones looking at their best mid 70’s torn and frayed selves. Some young people might even think this is what they look like now, believe me darling – it isn’t. But the song, well it reminds me of Saint Of Me, probably my favourite song off Bridges To Babylon, got a good vocal melody, some good hard riffing and builds steadily with some backing vocals taking it to that extra level, like the ooh oohs on Sympathy For The Devil. I’ll take it against Angry With Me any day.

But it’s Rough And Twisted for me, and I know there are at least a couple more songs like this on the upcoming album Foreign Tongues out on June 10th. *****

Review by Andy Sharrocks


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: COLIN BLUNSTONE – The Sub Rooms, Stroud, 14 May 2026

COLIN BLUNSTONE - Stroud Sub-Rooms, 14 May 2026

Colin Blunstone represents that rare and sadly dying breed of consummate performer, with six decades of trial and tribulation in the music industry.  A real trooper.

As Colin recounted tonight his period of chart activity with The Zombies was short lived in the 1960s and since that time – as a solo artist – he’s experienced the highs and lows, waiting for the phone to ring with a new project or opportunity.  As he said, if you experience similar take a bath, the phone is bound to ring.  He even referred to some half-remembered TV and radio commercials work.

Tonight’s sortie was characterised by Colin’s engaging between song banter, a real honest professional.  But six decades on, more importantly the voice is still intact and the tunes still resonant.

COLIN BLUNSTONE - The Sub Rooms, Stroud, 14 May 2026

Backed with an excellent band who gave full flowering to the back catalogue, the gig started in retro Zombies-related mode with Dave Bainbridge’s Hammond a real highlight as it was throughout.

But it wasn’t long before the big hitters were brought out with ‘I Don’t Believe In Miracles’, ‘Say You Don’t Mind’ and ‘What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted’ all hitting the mark.  An acoustic interlude had Bainbridge pick up guitar and together with guitarist Soren Koch enhanced ‘Keep The Curtains Closed’ and ‘Misty Roses’.

COLIN BLUNSTONE - Stroud Sub-Rooms, 14 May 2026

It was, though, Bainbridge’s Hammond playing that was the quiet (or maybe loud?) revelation in this set: I’d always thought of him as a guitarist in bands like Iona and more latterly The Strawbs.

The killer app was his superb orchestration of the evening’s highlight, the song that Blunstone performed with the Alan Parsons Project on ‘Eye In The Sky’ back in 1982.  This rendition of ‘Old And Wise’ was topped off with a powerful solo from Koch and indeed the song’s import could well be the singer’s (and most of the audience’s) epitaph giving it added poignancy.

For the finale, it was back to the sixties and that Hammond delighted again on ‘She’s Not There’.

COLIN BLUNSTONE - Stroud Sub-Rooms, 14 May 2026

As far as the setlist goes, there was perhaps too much emphasis on Colin’s debut solo album ‘One Year’ (understandable as it is a more recent expanded reissue) and whilst he is now the keeper of The Zombies flame that era can sometimes sound a little dated and cultist.  It’s a shame that selections from his more contemporary albums (mainly the superb ‘On The Air Tonight’ but also ‘The Ghost Of You And Me’) were omitted.

Our recent feature in the “GRTR! Greats” series will reveal the wealth of material to further investigate.

A sixty year-plus career peppered with great stuff is an amazing achievement and with “that voice” and charm still present and correct.

Review and photos by David Randall

Setlist:
Indication/I Love You/Tell Her No/I Remember When I Loved Her/It’s Alright With Me/If It Don’t Work Out/I Don’t Believe In Miracles/Say You Don’t Mind/What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted/Time To Move/This Will Be Our Year/Hung Up On A Dream/Time Of The Season/Let Me Come Closer/Keep The Curtains Closed/Misty Roses/Any Other Way/Caroline Goodbye/Andorra/Old And Wise/She’s Not There/Just Out Of Reach


GRTR! Greats
(March 2026)
COLIN BLUNSTONE - Stroud Sub-Rooms, 14 May 2026


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: BEGGARS BLISS – S/t

bliss

Website [Release date 22.05.26]

Derby based Beggars Bliss formed in 2024, with a mantra of – “if it’s not fun, it’s not worth doing.” Their line-up is Henry John (vocals, guitar), Milly Ayesha (keyboards, vocals), Dan Griffiths (bass, vocals) and Chris West (drums, vocals).

Lead single ‘Peaches n Cream’ is a top-notch song, with a Free meets Black Crowes groove and lyrics that would make even Mr Coverdale blush! ‘Train Song’, with its harmonica intro and nifty keys, is the other single released so far. No real surprise as again it gets the feet tapping and has a sing-a-long chorus.

Beggars Bliss do ballads well too, as ‘Dusk ‘Till Dawn’ proves. They don’t break new musical ground, however, they nail that classic blues meets rock sound of Free, the Black Crowes, 70’s Aerosmith and Blackberry Smoke, and for fellow Brit comparisons the likes of Bad Touch and the Karma Effect.

‘Sunshine’ does just that, adding a musical bit of warmth to the listener’s day and features another fine guitar solo.

Another highlight is ‘Rabbit Hole’, that sees the album off in a swirl of piano led southern rock, Skynyrd style. Henry John sounds like a dead ringer for Live’s Ed Kowalcyzk on this one.

Beggars Bliss enter a crowded field, yet they have two big advantages. Firstly, their songs which are catchy as heck but never outstay their welcome. Secondly, they have that undeniable groove factor which will sound great live. One of the best debut albums you’ll hear this year. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie

23 May – DERBY, The Vic (Album Launch)
24 May – NOTTINGHAM, Rescue Rooms Dot to Dot Festival
25 May – LONDON, Dublin Castle
29 May – LINCOLN, Call Of The Wild Festival
05 Jun – DERBY, Derby Market Hall
04 Jul – DERBY, The Vic
25 Jul – NORTHAMPTON, Northants Rocks Festival (w/ Breed 77, Hacktivist, and Viking Skull)
25 Jul – GNOSALL, OXFEST Rally


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: WILL WILDE – Thames Side Brewery, Staines-upon-Thames, 3 May 2026

WILL WILDE- Thames Side Brewery, Staines-upon-Thames, 3 May 2026

Blues rock is a genre that rewards individual virtuosity, but 95 per cent of the time the star is a guitar hero. So Will Wilde stands out from the crowd with his chosen instrument being the harmonica. I’d been very impressed when I attended his ‘Blues Is Still Alive’ album launch at the 100 Club last year, and was eager for a second helping: favourable reports back from friends at his recent show at the Eel Pie Club made me all the more determined to catch his show at the Thames Side Brewery at Staines.

The brewery site has music coursing through its veins, from the guitars and posters on the walls to their small batch brews with a rock theme, on this occasion including ‘Trilogy’ with a pump clip imitating ELP’s album cover. Even better our host  Dorian Mead asked us to turn phones to silent and save our chats with friends for later as he introduced the first of Will Wilde’s two sets. Treating music and real ale with the reverence they deserve- this is my type of venue!

WILL WILDE- Thames Side Brewery, Staines-upon-Thames, 3 May 2026

Looking every inch the star in his black vest and cowboy boots and with a bandolier belt of harmonicas strapped round him like a soldier with his ammunition, he opened with equal confidence as the autobiographical ‘Wild One’ included lyrics like ‘I’ve got a belt full of harmonicas’ and ‘when it comes to playing harp I’m the finest on the scene’.

His voice sounded a little strained on that and its fast and frantic follow up ‘Don’t Play With Fire’, but better suited to the slower blues of ‘Stole My Love’. ‘Learn How to Love’ had a bit of a Texas-style blues feel and some impressively vigorous drumming from Steve Rushton who a couple of times nearly topped his kit over, and some audience call and response as Will pitted men against women.

 WILL WILDE- Thames Side Brewery, Staines-upon-Thames, 3 May 2026

Recounting his pride at collaborating on it with Walter Trout, for me the gig really came alive with the title track of ‘Blues Is Still Alive’, particularly as a jam allowed his other musicians to really start to shine. An organ solo from the impossibly youthful looking Ben Maxwell gave way to a languid solo from the studious-looking Mat Day, both of them recruits to the band since my previous sighting, then Mat and Will traded off lines.

‘Gypsy Woman’ was in a totally different ball park, as inspired by jazz and European folk music as blues, before the pace picked up again with their tribute to Matt Long in ‘Bring Me Down’. Will then mentioned he would be having the honour of supporting Eric Clapton this summer so to mark the occasion ended a crisp 45 minute first set with a cover of John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers’ ‘Steppin’ Out’. I hadn’t realised quite how much Deep Purple must have drawn on it for ‘Lazy’ and then I heard a guy humming the tune in the gents during the interval!

 WILL WILDE- Thames Side Brewery, Staines-upon-Thames, 3 May 2026

The second set opened with a slower song ‘Broken Dream Blues’ but the passion Will and band brought to the table was impressive, while the more Chicago-blues styled ‘Don’t Trust Me’ was more uptempo and he debuted a new song ‘Nothing About the Blues’. Once again the pace, energy and lack of padding was impressive on a trio of ‘Trouble of That Girl’, kicked off by a great drum intro, another new one in ‘Romp and Stomp’ and ‘Girl’s Got Soul’. Only on the closing song, a cover of Koko Taylor’s ‘Voodoo Man’, did they play one of those longer jams, with all the band members, including bassist Russell Carr, getting a solo slot.

There was a solitary encore, which represented unfinished business for me- at that 100 Club gig a curfew cut him off before his cover of ‘Parisienne Walkways’. It’s a song I’ve always loved, but his interpretation was unique- after the opening few bars were played on guitar by Mat, it was Will’s harmonica that took Gary Moore’s place- including that long sustained note which was an impressive feat. Excellent stuff from a talented artist who deserves the attention he is getting from blues legends.

WILL WILDE- Thames Side Brewery, Staines-upon-Thames, 3 May 2026

 Review and Photos by Andy Nathan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review : ROBIN BECK – Living Proof

Frontiers Music [Release date : 15.05.26]

Despite releasing 11 albums, many of them just bristling with songs written by proven hit makers, Robin Beck has survived an absence of best selling music, beyond her debut single ‘The First Time’, in 1988.

Those of a certain vintage will recognise this US no.1 hit song from a famous Coca-Cola commercial of the time.

When your husband/producer is James (HOL) Christian, and your music has been co-written by Tommy Denander, then mixed by Denis Ward and Chris Lord Alge, you realise that some 40 years later, the shifting fortunes of mainstream melodic rock seem to have settled, to some extent, on an era that we are all very familiar with.

Arguably though, the last few albums have seen the team looking to update the blueprint, taking maximum advantage of Beck’s been-round-the-block-a-few-times vocals, sultry, fiery, soulful, concocting songs that skilfully combine a raw, emotional urgency with a modern edge. Modern, in a high-impact, polished sense, most notably here, ‘Trouble Or Nothing’, and ‘Karma’.

While some survivor artists labour in the shadow of melodic rock’s early popularity, in terms of sales and radio likeability, Beck strikes a different chord. Nowadays she sounds like she’s searching for something new. The vibrant ballads ‘What A Night’ and ‘Let It Rain’ sound authentic, lived experiences in song, while ‘Love And Money’s clean lines and sophisticated, contemporary rock production sound like a step forward.

‘NaNaNa’ is fun, a tongue in cheek dance/rock song. ‘Voodoo’ sounds grown up, slipping quickly into a latin groove that just won’t quit, and the album’s title song, a cool slice of lightweight rock funk, balances neatly with the rockier stuff. ***

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: W.A.S.P. – s/t

wasp

Madfish [Release date 21.05.26]

Record label Madfish have been working some of the early W.A.S.P. catalogue, including The Savage 7 CD boxset. Here is the band’s 1984 debut and in line with all the other Madfish releases I’ve encountered, it screams quality. Screams being the appropriate word with W.A.S.P.

In fact it is safe to say that for Madfish, anything less is simple not an option.

The cover feels good quality, as does the full colour inner sleeve (lyrics, photos). Then there’s the vinyl, a deep marbled purple that is thick, it literally feels solid, good quality.

Then there’s the sound quality – which is (assuming you have a half decent system) better than some CDs I’ve heard. Really. Depth and warmth, something too many reissues lack.

On to the album. Which many will be familiar with. The band formed in the early 80s, although bassist/vocalist Blackie Lawless’ career can be traced back to the mid 70s. Often labelled ‘Hair Metal’, they were far too heavy, rough’n’ready, for that. Mid 80s glam and hair metal went hand in hand, a genre that the band really didn’t fit.

The band featured drummer Tony Richards and guitarists Randy Piper and Chis Holmes alongside vocalist/guitarist Blackie Lawless, the latter switching to bass (he’d later revert to guitar later is W.A.S.P.’s career).

Their debut single “Animal (Fuck Like A Beast)” their label dropped from the album, released via a licencing deal with Music For Nations. When asked it he was disappointed by that, Blackie told me “Probably initially, but you realise these things happen for a reason. But at the same time you take the press”.

The opening track here, giving a definitive statement of intent (at least musically), is “I Wanna Be Somebody”. A drum roll and the whole band come in all screams a blazing. Fast, frenetic, very memorable. The video for the single proved very popular on VH1.

Then “L.O.V.E. Machine”, not only with a good guitar solo but some decent guitar interplay. Then “The Flame”, the structure of the song nodding back to 70s classic rock, but with the screams and rough rock’n’roll all turned up to 11.

W.A.S.P. have since covered tracks by Deep Purple and Uriah Heep, so you can tell the influences.

“School Daze” another change of tempo, but just as heavy, and another single.

“Tormentor” has a solid chorus and chunky sound and the chord progressions in “The Torture Never Stops” stand out. The latter (and album closer) has always been a favourite of mine. Another sound guitar solo too, a wonderful journey on that one alone.

Obviously depending on tastes, but this is a good and genre defining debut. And this is as good a way to enjoy it as anything else. ****

Review by Joe Geesin


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Album review : FRONTLINE – Rebirth

Frontiers [Release date : 15.05.26]

Calling your new album Rebirth, 20 years after your last release, seems quite an understatement.

But still, Frontline wade back out confidently into melodic rock’s fast flowing waters. Many have attempted the same kind of comeback, but few manage it with this level of conviction.

Rebirth, we are delighted to say, is like deja vu all over again.

The band’s songwriter and guitarist, Robert Bobel died in 2022. But vocalist Stephan Kamerrer is still up front and he’s still got it. His voice, untouched by time, carries the same strength and clarity it did two decades ago.

Openers, ‘Burning Horizon’ and ‘Blacktop Parachute’ play to the past without sounding cliched or derivative, expansive but tightly arranged, and unlike so many of today’s bands who stifle the vocals with overpowering axework and percussion, Kammerer’s voice has room to breathe, and space to rise into something bold and dramatic, when the moment demands it.

Like ‘After You’re Gone’, a proudly old fashioned ballad, with a marginally more sophisticated sound than we remember from the eighties.

Apart from a great song title, ‘Two Tickets To The Afterglow’ assembles all the ingredients so many loved about eighties AOR – emotive vocals, melodic axework and sparingly rationed keyboard fills and frills, punctuating an incredibly addictive chorus.

And so it goes on, not letting the quality dip. It even finds room for one of melodic rock’s culturally specific words on ‘Boulevard Echo’.

In guitarist/producer/writer, Christian Muhlroth, Kammerer found a talented, like minded music partner. Together they’ve created an expansion of a world that worked best on the simplest of terms, only occasionally straying over the line from honest sentiment into sentimental.

14 tracks and you’re bound to encounter a sense of sameness as you work your way through the album. But it’s quickly dispelled by a suite of high calibre tracks in the second half. ‘Stone Feather’, ‘Burning The Distance’ and ‘Arc Of Lightning’ are AOR Champions League material, going toe to toe with bands like Roulette, Treat, Giuffria, The Storm and others, past and present.

Condensed and distilled with those earlier tracks, they leave the album feeling like a concentrated, finely honed slice of melodic rock. ****

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: CATS IN SPACE- Half Moon, Putney, London, 26 April 2026

CATS IN SPACE- Half Moon, Putney, London, 26 April 2026

In January 2016, having just released an album in ‘Too Many Gods’ and begun to attract attention for its seventies inspired, yet original, songwriting, Cats In Space made their live debut at the Half Moon at Putney, which I was privileged to be at and indeed covered for this site.

Originally this show back at the same place  was planned to be on the exact tenth anniversary, but that neat symmetry was not possible when the venue closed for a (welcome) refurbishment. Instead I rushed back, beginning the day travelling from the Wings of AOR Festival in Sweden, to ensure I could make the rescheduled date.
CATS IN SPACE- Half Moon, Putney, London, 26 April 2026

I’ve seen them many times in the intervening decade in a variety of settings, from supports to Thunder and Deep Purple to their theatre style stage shows in 2023 and 2024. Since then it has been a bit of a transitional time for the ‘Cats’ with the departure of a couple of stalwart members and relatively low key touring activity.  This was one of a limited series of ‘Acousti-cat’ shows and the first time I have seen such a show.

It felt a little strange to see the band come on not only unplugged, but down to a core four piece. In another neat piece of symmetry they opened (as they had on that very first show) with the title track of ‘Too Many Gods’, followed by moving bang up to date with ‘My Father’s Eyes’ from most recent album ‘Time Machine’.
CATS IN SPACE- Half Moon, Putney, London, 26 April 2026

Guitarist and co-founder member Greg Hart doubled up as master of ceremonies to a far greater extent than during the electric live shows, with anecdotes and shout outs at various points to past and present collaborators and supportive journalists. The stripped back arrangements seemed to give Andy Stewart’s keys greater prominence, his retro sounds on ‘A Big Balloon’ being a case in point, while in contrast we saw a new side to Steevi Bacon, usually hidden behind the drum kit but now playing a variety of percussion instruments from bongos to chimes and even the odd spot of harmonica playing.

There was a mixture of established live favourites like ‘Mr Heartache’ but also lesser played tracks, including ‘2:59’ and ‘Poke The Witch’, both showing their gift for satire, and a highlight for me in ‘Jupiter Calling’ which I thought I was fated never to hear live. Singer Damien Edwards seemed more relaxed and this format brought out his superb voice, particularly on the ballads including the first half closer ‘Scars’.
CATS IN SPACE- Half Moon, Putney, London, 26 April 2026

If the first half of the show had something resembling a setlist, the rules were progressively torn up during a looser and more relaxed second set. It opened with another relative obscurity in ‘Magic Loving Feeling’, one of those numbers that in another time would have been a big hit, before Damien delivered a superb cover of ‘Forever Autumn’, though he did confess that he didn’t get to sing it when part of the War Of The Worlds cast.

After ‘Last Man Standing’ he again showed off that crystal clear voice on the ballad ‘1,000,000 Miles’  but the fun was only just beginning as the show became looser and more spontaneous. A running gag about whether a Queen cover should be played led to the band beating out ‘We Will Rock You’ and the crowd taking over, then both parties combined to improvise ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’- all three movements of it-in a ramshackle and spontaneous, yet utterly brilliant way!

 CATS IN SPACE- Half Moon, Putney, London, 26 April 2026

There were more contrasting covers in ‘Stray Cat Strut’ and a beautiful rendition of ‘Desperado’, but after sitting at the back for much of the show I belatedly realised I had to be nearer the front to be part of this special and intimate atmosphere. Returning to their own originals, the set mixed ballads- ‘Narnia’ and ‘This Velvet Rush’ with traditional live favourites ‘Thunder In The Night’ and ‘I Fell Out Of Love With Rock’n’Roll’, the latter with a coda of ‘Hey Jude’.

However in keeping with the surprises of the evening, just as special was when Greg spoke of how there was no need to have ‘guilty pleasures’ when it came to good songs, and from his favourite musical year of 1976 they played The Real Thing’s pop soul classic ‘You To Me Are Everything’.
CATS IN SPACE- Half Moon, Putney, London, 26 April 2026

Intimate, fun and increasingly spontaneous as the night went on, this was a great delayed 10th anniversary party to keep things going before their new album appears later in the year.

Review and Photos by Andy Nathan


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Gig review: LIGHTNING THREADS – The Half Moon, Putney, 3 May 2026

lt

The recently refurbished Half Moon welcomed a Sheffield based double header over the bank holiday weekend with headliners, Lightning Threads, backed up by The Fargo Railroad Co.

Fargo are something else! Their light hearted but infectious take on Southern Country Rock makes you smile from the get go, with front man Jody Davies leading the enthusiastic audience through a series of sing-a-long barroom numbers with the highlight for me being ‘Drinking Alone’ with the audience reminding Jody that he is, indeed, an ‘asshole’ (you had to be there!). Great fun and one to catch in the future.

lt2

Lightning Threads are currently touring in support of their latest album, the excellent ‘Trinkets’ and tonight’s set, unsurprisingly, leans heavily on that release with the first three songs from the album opening up the show.

And what is immediately obvious is how the new material, already exceptional in its studio form comes alive on the road. Opener, ‘Nowhere To Go’ builds from its atmospheric beginnings into a powerful statement of intent. It, like everything on ‘Trinkets’ is rooted deep in the heart of traditional Blues, but sprinkled liberally with the Thread’s own rock orientated flavouring. Tom Jane’s guitar tone here, and throughout the evening, is to die for, his powerful lead vocal grabs your immediate attention while the harmony BV’s, evoke that deep south planation vibe. ‘Wild One’ and ‘What Can I Say’ follow, a double punch of blues rock driven along by Sam Burgum’s insistent bass lines and Hugh Butler’s drums and on point keys (no, I don’t know how he does both either!).

Previous album, ‘Off That Lonely Road’ is not forgotten and next up we have a couple of tracks from that 2023 release, ‘This Ain’t Easy’ followed by, ‘The Preacher’. While the latter has a more commercial groove, both of these early compositions fit seamlessly alongside the heavier style of the new material.

The soulful ‘What a Fever Does’, another ‘Trinkets’ cut, all shimmering guitar and impassioned lead vocal and a blistering run through Rory Gallagher’s ‘Crest of a Wave’ take us past the midway point. The Threads are really cooking now, the energy coming off the stage clear for us all to see, hear and feel. This is blues rock at its finest!

It’s back to ‘Trinkets’, with the swinging bluesy shuffle of ‘Rags & Riches’, then ‘Devil Inside Of Me’ the latter giving a respectful nod to early Zeppelin with a Wah flavoured lead break Mr Page would be proud of.

We’re racing towards the end of the main set now, with my favourite track from the first album, ‘Brown Liquor, Black Coffee’. Underpinned by Butler’s organ riff (no, I still don’t know how he does it!) we’re transported into a black and white movie, set in a seedy South American gin joint, with a few bars of the Doors’, ‘Break On Through’ eased in for good measure, which allows Sam Burgum the chance to step up to the mic.

lt3

The set ends with another cracking cover, Albert King’s ‘Born Under a Bad Sign’, a frequent flyer in the Threads sets, it’s a song that the band have made their own.

First up in the unsurprisingly loudly requested encore is a wander into the audience for Tom Jane and Sam Burgum. Their acoustic guitar accompanied, vocal duet on the 100 year old gospel song ‘Let It Shine On Me’, is stunning.

Back on stage the band are joined by Andy Davison from The Fargo Railroad Co. to add some blues harmonica to the magnificent ‘With A Heavy Heart’. This instrumental track is a monster, building from drummer Butler’s wistful piano intro (absolutely no idea how he does it…witchcraft seems the best bet!) and ending up as a Santana/Threads mash up. Arms twisted for one more song the night draws to a close with the infectious rockabilly boogie of ‘Shook’, a brilliant end to an outstanding night of blues rock.

Tonight, Lightning Threads prove once again that they have what it takes to stand out in a crowded genre. Their take on blues rock may well be rooted in the sound of the masters like Albert King, but they create a unique blues experience that leaves you with a song in your head and a smile on your face.

King said that ‘If you can’t dig the blues, you got a hole in your soul’ well, if you can’t dig the Threads, you need to have a firm word with yourself. Check them out on tour now and then, later in the year, with Blue Nation. Trust me you’re in for a treat.

Review and photos by Neil Pudney

Album review (Trinkets, 2026)


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: WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL – Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

The status of Scandinavia as the spiritual home of melodic rock is reflected not just in the volume of bands there, but an increasing number of festivals dedicated to, or featuring a goodly number of, melodic acts. When a new festival was announced last winter, Wings of AOR, curiosity got the better of me, not least as in an unusual line up there were some ‘bucket list’ moments not available anywhere else. A reasonably healthy attendance, including many familiar melodic rock travellers from the UK, Europe and the Americas, suggested that others were equally attracted.

It was not in one of the major cities, but Norrkoping, a town of 100,000 or so an hour and a half from Stockholm by train. Like many of our own Victorian cities, you can see in the elegant public buildings the prosperity that industry brought in the 19th century, and it has reinvented itself with a lively social scene. The festival venue reflected this- a stylish historic hall with impressive ceilings and a good sized floor with a high-ish stage. The stage presentation was also slick, though my one gripe was that the lighting was in overly bold colours, or at times spotlights that meant we were viewing the bands in darkness!

The line up favoured quality over quantity with five bands in each of two days, though this meant extremely generous set lengths by festival standards, with even the trio in the middle getting an hour and ten minutes.

DAY 1- RUSS BALLARD, EASY ACTION, BRIAN SPENCE, GATHERING OF KINGS, DAYTONA 

There was an introduction from stage announcer Stefan Johansson, a veteran of the Swedish rock scene, dispensing in sonorous fashion words of wisdom to the effect that we should both respect the old and celebrate the new. The honour of being the first ever band to play Wings of AOR went to Swedes Daytona, who I also saw at Malmo Melodic last year. Most of their members have a pedigree with other bands including former Miss Behaviour guitarist Erik Heikne, who enlivened opener ‘Welcome To The Real World’ with a smooth solo that reminded me of Neal Schon’s in ‘Send Her My Love’, while in proper AOR fashion good use was made of Johan Berlin’s keyboards, which seemed to open nearly every song, notably ‘Kelly’.
WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

They slipped in an early cover of ‘Love Is A Battlefield’ which was very impressive, singer Frederik Werner giving the original a bit of added strength and power. They also played a couple of new and as yet unreleased songs- indeed I found the songwriting on ‘No Exit Highway’ and ‘Listen To The Silence’ (an appropriate title given the good use of space in the arrangement) more impressive than older numbers like ‘Town Of Many Faces’ and ‘Slave To The Rhythm’. A set that was a little shorter than billed ended with their most out and out commercial song in ‘Looks Like Rain’ and their most impressive one in ‘Where Did We Lose The Love’. It was a performance a notch or two above that at Malmo and got the festival off to a good start.

Despite the ‘AOR’ moniker, the festival touched on all bases of the genre and next up Gathering of Kings provided some melodic hard rock, albeit with the keyboards of Dino Zuzic still prominent. I’d seen them a few years back on the ‘Rocknytt Cruise’ (which shared common organisers) so was prepared for their distinctive concept of a revolving door of multiple singers, albeit that this time there were a ‘mere’ three.
WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

The pony-tailed, hat sporting Tobias Jansson got things going with the opening cut from their debut album ‘Forever And A Day’, then I was unfamiliar with ‘Wary Of The Wolf’ but very impressed. He gave way to a very different frontman in the white-suited Alexander Frisborg  who one of my friends likened to a long-haired Basil Fawlty.

In hyper energetic fashion he dived into the crowd and got a clapalong going during ‘Long Way From Home’ before  ‘Highway To Paradise’ . The third of the trio, Jonny Lindqvist, who reminded me physically a little of Lou Gramm, had a raspier voice which complemented the keyboard-heavy melodies of ‘Moonlight’ before ‘A Rainbow And A Star’.

From now on, like a rock version of Noah’s Ark, each of the trio of singers came on and off for two songs, Tobias returning for ‘Endless Paradise’ and ‘From A Whisper To A Scream’ then Alexander for ‘Kiss From Above’, again getting the audience involved and ‘Here Be Dragons’ which was absolutely superb, one of their heavier numbers yet still boasting big hooks.
WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

On ‘Feed You My Love’, Therés Enström from Emotional Fire (of whom more anon) joined Jonny for a vocal duet, then after ‘The Runaway’ and ‘Heaven On The Run’, ‘Vagabond Rise’ was a grower. A highly enjoyable set, pitched somewhere between Brother Firetribe and Axel Rudi Pell, and with Victor Olsson proving every Swedish band must have a Malmsteen loving guitarist with flowing hair under a cowboy hat, ended with all three singers out front, sharing the load, on ‘Out Of My Life’.

Next up was one of those bucket list moments in Brian Spence. I remember back in 1986 Kerrang! touting the fact Polydor Records (as labels do) saw the Scot as their answer to Bryan Adams. I saw him just the once, supporting Skagarack at the Marquee that year, and loved his ‘Brothers’ album, but he was destined to be a footnote in history and I discovered over the weekend even a couple of melodic rock experts had not even heard of him.
WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

Still a trim figure in his seventies, he has aged well and was not unflattered by his younger self on the cover of ‘Brothers’ glowering in sultry fashion on the backdrop behind him. Apparently he still does lower key shows regularly in the UK but his band, which included wife Debbie on backing vocals, began rather tentatively, opening with the title track of his second album ‘Reputation’ (which did much less for me) and I worried they might be a little too laid back for this audience (one drunken figure in a golfing jacket larging it up and hugging everyone excepted!)

However they soon settled and there were repeated reminders of the Celtic-tinged arrangements and intelligent songwriting that characterised ‘Brothers’ in ‘Backdoor’, ‘Love Is The Glory’, ‘Gandhi’ and the title track. At times the music was on the fringes where AOR meets pop, with Deacon Blue and even Sting cropping up as a comparison, ‘Come Back Home’ being a case in point. But I was impressed with the songs unfamiliar to me in ‘I Still Don’t Know’ which had a lot of depth to it, and the strong melodic hooks of ‘Falling In Love In A Foreign Land’.

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

After a cover of ‘Never Tear Us Apart’ in which bassist Ben Hackett switched to keyboards, ‘You Got The Whip’ (dedicated to Debbie!) saw the band jam out a little and Brian’s co-guitarist Al Vosper gradually take on a greater share of the leads, including on slide. ‘I Was A Zombie’) was a song written during Covid, but the gig really warmed up with a pair from ‘Brothers’ in ‘I Will Call You Family’ and ‘Will You Never Be My Friend‘, both sounding like a Celtic version of The Outfield.

The cognoscenti usually frown on well-known covers at festivals like this but an excellently delivered ‘Rebel Yell’ set us up nicely for the final song and crowning glory in one of the best hit singles that never was in ‘Hear It From The Heart’. It was wonderful to hear it 40 years on and just as heartwarming to hear the post-gig chatter that (much as Glass Tiger did a few years ago at Rockingham) his more pop-rock oriented sound was a perfect mid-festival change of pace. I really must catch one of his UK pub shows.

 WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

A rare appearance on home soil by Easy Action was one of the big draws for some, but not me, as my prior knowledge was shamefully limited to a pair of facts; that Kee Marcello left them to replace John Norum in Europe, and that they took Poison to court for ripping off one of their songs for ‘I Want Action’ (sic).  I had them pigeonholed as a glam rock band, but those in the know told me that they released a much more polished follow up ‘That Makes One’ just before Kee quit the band in 1986, and that was the line up (a six piece with keyboards) and musical style on show tonight.

So it is fair to say I was blown away by the classic Scandinavian melodic sounds of opener ‘Code To Your Heart’ and ‘Partners In Crime’, and though the proggier sounding ‘Shake It Up’ was less good, ‘Talk Of The Town’ (did that inspire another Scandi band’s name?) and ‘Talk Talk Talk’ showed off the rich, deep vocals of fair haired singer Tommy Nielsen. Kee Marcello very much looked the rock star amongst the band but in a team effort, far from hogging the limelight was sharing guitar duties with Chris Lind. He also sang some of the ballad ‘Only Love’, which also featured a twin guitar solo.

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

As the set wore on, some new songs were in other musical styles with ‘My Demons’ U2-esque and a protest song (at least I think so) in ‘Hello Mr President Goodbye’. Some momentum was lost with instrumental solos and an acoustically driven passage, including ballad ‘In The Middle of Nowhere’ but restored with ‘Teachers Do It With Class’ (sic) which aped the swaggering Robert Palmer sounds of the time’, ‘Dazed’ and a very strong closer to a revelation of a set in ‘Eye For An Eye’.

And so to the headliner and the second Brit of the night and a bona fide legend in Russ Ballard. Since he belatedly began touring again I’ve seen him regularly since Covid, including on the aforementioned Rocknytt Cruise, and began to realise that the set featured a number of AOR-friendly tunes which all seemed to be from the same album, his 1984 self-titled effort. It was one I belatedly invested in and the selling point of his appearance here was that, rather than his usual show focusing on his whole recording and writing career, this set was devoted to a complete performance both of that album and its successor ‘The Fire Still Burns’.
WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

Looking ridiculously youthful for a man who turned 80 last year, and sporting an ‘Old Grey Whistle Test T-shirt, he began with a quick spiel about how his songs had turned into hits for other people. Momentarily I thought that meant we were going to get his standard set, so it was with relief he embarked on the first of those albums in order, and there was a hearty singalong to the chorus of ‘I Can’t Hear You No More’. ‘In The Night’ was a reminder that he has also always been a skilled lead guitarist with a fluent style before the classic AOR of ‘Two Silhouettes’ and the period sounds of ‘Voices’ with its siren-like keyboards courtesy of Marc Rapson.

‘A Woman Like You’ began with those stabbing keyboard intros that us AOR-sters love so much and it was great to hear one that would not otherwise have been played in ‘Day By Day’. ‘Playing with Fire’ gave his excellent band greater scope to jam out, with second guitarist Paul Bond playing a rare lead, then ‘The Last Time’, a semi ballad that reminded me a little of Journey’s ‘Who’s Cryin Now’, ended a masterclass in melodic songwriting.

 WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

In an unexpected interlude, Therés from Emotional Fire came back on and played  a couple of solo songs Russ had written, appropriately enough, for the Abba women  – Frida’s electro-rock classic ‘I Know There’s Something Going On’ and the lesser known ‘Can’t Shake Loose’, recorded by Agnetha, and in doing so demonstrating a fine set of pipes.

A change of backdrop meant it was onto ‘The Fire Still Burns’, the follow up released in 1985. Now I did have this one at the time, but got rid of it, put off by the processed feel popular at the time including programmed drums. Yet here I loved the opening pair in Once A Rebel’, with an equally strong ‘run boy’ secondary chorus, and ‘The Omen’, as strong as anything off its predecessor. Should I have a sense of shame at my ignorant younger self, or did it take the full band treatment like this to do his songwriting justice?
WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

However, ‘Hey Bernadette’ and ‘Searching’, which seemed to be something of a ‘Voices’ Part 2, were less strong, and ‘Your Time Is Gonna Come’ a reminder that the sound was more dance and synthesiser oriented in line with the fashions of the time. This set of songs felt longer and moodier, and as a result, at the end of a long tiring day, every time I looked around more and more people had called it a night, though in the case of one lairy drunk no longer pestering us, that was no bad thing.

It also didn’t help that arguably the album’s most enduring two songs came at the end of the running order- ‘Dream On’ was preceded by Russ modestly telling the crowd that most of his dreams had come true, then after a laundry list of war zones was updated to include the likes of Gaza and Iran, a storming ‘The Fire Still Burns’.

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

 There was a special treat for those who were left as Russ switched from his Les Paul to a guitar with Swiss-cheese like holes, and played a couple of his best known songs: there was a cracking atmosphere for ‘Since You Been Gone’ as Rainbow are probably only second to Thin Lizzy in the affection in which they are held in Sweden, as was to be proven the next night. However musically it was eclipsed by an epic arrangement of ‘God Gave Rock’n’Roll To You’, notably in Marc’s classic mid-song organ solo. Incredibly, Russ had played for two hours and still had the stamina to conduct his meet and greet- it wasn’t to be his last contribution of the weekend either.

DAY 2- JOE LYNN TURNER, BROTHER FIRETRIBE, ONE DESIRE, PERFECT PLAN, EMOTIONAL FIRE

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

Day 2 began with another band I’d seen on that Rocknytt Cruise in Emotional Fire. They have since released their first EP and full-length album, but I was surprised as they came on stage that the original all-female line up was no more and the band was three-fifths male, depriving them of one of their unique selling points.

I was a little puzzled when in his introductions Stefan Johansson made a reference to cocktail bar friendly music, and sure enough their eponymous opening track, the Diane Warren, Michael Bolton and Desmond Child co-write most famously covered by Cher but also our night’s headliner on the Sunstorm project, seemed a little flat and lacking the energy and punch of the original.

 WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

Original numbers like ‘Somebody’, ‘Don’t Lose Yourself’ and ‘Like A Phoenix’ seemed rather underpowered AOR lite, though ‘Be With You was impressively melodic. There was no doubt that Therés Enström was the star of the show, looking increasingly commanding on stage, and slowly the band responded to a supportive crowd’s encouragement, suggesting I was maybe being overly harsh in my judgements. More impressive were ‘I Want You here With Me’ with a classic keyboard intro from Daniel Myhr and ‘The Beast In Me’, which apparently was a cover.

Even better was to follow with ‘Will You Be There’ reminding me of Heart and not only in the title, while during the ballad ‘Fire In Your Eyes’, Therés gave her all, kneeling at the front of the crowd, singing in passionate fashion and getting a clap along going. So by the time of set closers. ‘Turn Around And Walk Away’ and ‘Breaking Me Up’ I ended up far more impressed than when the set started.
WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

Perfect Plan’s rise from a quintet of middle-aged Swedes from the sparsely populated north in day jobs to one of the top melodic rock acts in Scandinavia is one you could make a movie about. They were certainly one of the draws of the festival for me, as they rank among my favourites yet, never having yet reached the UK, I had only seen them the once at Malmo Melodic.

In particular their second album ‘Time For A Miracle’ is for me among the very best melodic rock albums of recent years and I was delighted that a lengthy intro tape heralded the title track with its powerful, almost pomp-like approach and soaring chorus.

 WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

The band blend AOR moments with more traditional bluesy heavy rock and ‘Bad City Woman’ was a fine example of the latter, even if a little close in places to Skin’s ‘Look But Don’t Touch’, while the first of a trio from most recent album ‘Heart Of A Lion’, ‘One Touch’ impressed with its direct simplicity.

The band were very professional and their trump card will always be singer Kent Hilli – the man also recruited to one of his favourite bands in Giant. Though there are elements of Tempest and Coverdale in there, his delivery on the more AOR numbers is to me pure Jamison, and his shades and jacket and stage moves only add to the comparison. So it was appropriate that after a pair from ‘…Miracle’ – ‘What About Love’, with one hook after another and his putting heart and soul into the mighty ballad ‘Fighting To Win’, we got a note perfect cover of Survivor’s ‘Didn’t Know It Was Love’, arranged for audience participation.
WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

That trio of songs raised the bar so high that even an otherwise excellent song like ‘Better Off Alone’ suffered in comparison, while on another newie ‘Too Tough’ the band soldiered on through some technical gremlins that impish guitarist Rolf Nordstrom suffered.

There were a couple of those more traditional, Deep Purple family-influenced songs in ‘Gotta Slow Me Down’ and ‘Surrender’, one of those rare songs where the bridge and the chorus are equally memorable, while the other new song  ‘We Are Heroes’ had a more modern, Brother Firetribe type vibe to it.
WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

They went back to the beginning for the final songs in ‘Heaven In Your Eyes’, brought to a close with some brilliant vocal harmonies, and the song that started it all in a majestic  ‘In And Out Of Love’.

It was a set every bit as good as I’d anticipated and set a high bar to follow for One Desire, the young Finns who burst on the scene with two fine albums a few years ago and who have regrouped after a bit of a chequered history of some intra-band differences.

In one of his more amusing soliloquies, our host Stefan said that AOR was not just about happiness and air keyboards, but the heartbreaks of love and the uniquely Scandinavian sense of melancholy. He said those feelings were epitomised in one song, ‘Hurt’ and sure enough they began with that, lead singer André Linman encouraging a mass forest of hands on the chorus in a crowd that was as packed as any during the weekend.

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

After ‘Never Gonna Stop’ which I enjoyed despite being less familiar with, they threw in some of their best songs first in ‘Apologize’ and ‘After You’re Gone’, where the talented Jimmy Westerlund (who looks like a cross between fellow guitar heroes Messrs Schon and Lukather) carried the catchy guitar melody.  ‘Shadowman’ showed their more progressive side, but also a more modern sound embracing electronics, that contrasted quite drastically with Perfect Plan’s old-school approach.

They lost presentational points for not speaking in English before this international gathering, while the white spotlighting meant that the crowd saw a band bathed in darkness for long periods.  After ‘Heroes’, ‘Through The Fire’ proved a bit of an epic, Jimmy taking the initial lead vocals and playing acoustic but the song climaxing in a jam between him and André.  The latter then excelled on ‘This Is Where the Heartbreak Begins’, both singing and playing the guitar solo.

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

However I did feel the quality dipped a little for the rest of the set with ‘Down And Dirty’ with some almost techno sounds, ‘Turn Back Time’ and ‘Whenever I’m Dreaming’, before the frantic and slightly out of character closer of ‘Buried Alive’. Attention was distracted however by a stage invader wanting to be reunited with the hat he had thrown on stage and security seemed to allow him there for so long that I briefly wondered if he was part of the act. It had been an uneven set, but also one to prove that AOR should be an evolving creed which One Desire are taking in a more modern direction to adapt to changing musical production values.

The senior of two Finnish bands in succession were Brother Firetribe, who I was eager to see after a show-stealing appearance at Malmo Melodic last year (which has also earned them a headline this year at that festival). On that occasion the set focused on more recent material including their latest EP, but this time it was a greatest hits type set with a generous selection from their first couple of albums.

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

Opening with the title track of ‘Break Out’ from the debut (aka ‘False Metal’) which amazingly is now 20 years old, a series of simple songs driven by the keyboards of Tomppa Nikulainen and with one hook after another had people singing along and punching the air- ‘I Am Rock’, ‘One Single Breath’, ‘Midnight Queen’, ‘Valerie’ and ‘I’m On Fire’, with barely a pause for breath.

Seemingly ageless singer Pekka Ansio Heino was one of the best frontmen of the weekend – and certainly the most dapper in his lilac jacket – and had the crowd in the palm of his hand. The title track of that EP ‘Number One’ rivalled the oldies for catchiness, though ‘Shock’ was a little different, similar to the clinical gothic rock of the likes of Sisters of Mercy or HIM.

 WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

The singalongs continued however with ‘Just Another Night’  and the daft but insanely catchy ‘Chariot Of Fire’. ‘Night Drive’ with its synthwave overtones was another slight departure, before more instant anthems in ‘For Better Or For Worse’, and ‘Bring On The Rain’.

The set ended with one more singalong in ‘Heart Full Of Fire’- as the band dragged out its finale, guitarist Roope Riihijärvi teased with the riff of ‘Seven Nation Army’, resulting in the crowd chanting along for a good couple of minutes before Pekka implored them to stop and they finished the song. In a festival of many memorable moments, that may have been the very best. My delight was only tempered by thoughts of what might have been when they and One Desire cancelled a joint UK tour a couple of years back.

 WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

And finally another bucket list moment with the closing headliner in Joe Lynn Turner. He is occasionally seen in the UK (though less often than in Russia judging from setlist.fm) but the rarity value here was a full performance of his 1985 album ‘Rescue You’, his debut solo effort in the aftermath of Rainbow disbanding, and the one which gave free reign to the AOR tendencies during his tenure in the band. Sadly it was not a success, and after spells with Yngwie Malmsteen and Deep Purple, when he resumed his solo career it was in a slightly more organic and bluesy fashion, so I feared it was an album that had been lost to history.

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

Also consigned to history is his long-standing wig, so it was a shaven headed figure in a black leather coat, like a junior Rob Halford, who hit the stage. At 74 you can add him to the small number of singers who have retained his vocal power and range, while he was a consummate frontman with his New Yorker’s patter and the right words of thanks to staff and crews.

However he began with a couple of Rainbow classics far removed from AOR in a powerful ‘Death Alley Driver’ where his old Brazen Abbot bandmate and Blackmore devotee Nikolo Kotzev and Swede Will Oaks embarked on one of those classic guitar-keyboard battles, and fists were punching to ‘Power’, featuring another keyboard solo.

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

Introducing ‘Rescue You’ as being 40 years old, he could be forgiven for missing the extra year. I could scarcely control my excitement at hearing the lead off cut, and my favourite, ‘Losing You’, while ‘Young Hearts’ and the lush semi ballad ‘Endlessly’ were reminders that this was like a lost Foreigner album – indeed one in which their former keyboardist Al Greenwood was the main collaborator.

However after the title track, both Joe and the band relaxed somewhat and put their own stamp on proceedings, notably getting into a groove on ‘Feel The Fire’, and he allowed his voice to take the slightly grittier style he has subsequently developed.

If ‘Get Tough’ was a relative weak spot, the band did full justice to AOR classics like ‘Eyes Of Love’ and ‘Soul Searcher’, and enlivened ‘On The Run’ and closer ‘The Race Is On’ in a way that took them a little closer to Purple or Rainbow territory.
WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

Talking of which the rest of the set was always going to be a bit of a greatest hits, starting with a rattling ‘Can’t Happen Here’, then, preceded by an anecdote about how the title came from a lovelorn Roger Glover, a quite brilliant version of ‘Stone Cold’, the first song with which (controversially at the time) Ritchie Blackmore steered Rainbow into that AOR direction. On a night like this, it maybe would have been nice to get others in that ilk like ‘Street Of Dreams’ or ‘Can’t Let You Go’.

In what was a badly kept secret, with Pekka from Brother Firetribe very nearly letting the cat out of the bag, last year’s night’s headliner Russ Ballard returned, to add additional guitar and vocals to ‘I Surrender’. Incredibly, even though he wrote the song which in Joe’s hands ended up being Rainbow’s biggest charting hit single, the two had never actually met before the weekend. To be near the front and soak up the atmosphere during that was quite stunning.

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

However ‘Spotlight Kid’ ensured there was no anti-climax, with another of those great guitar and keyboard battles, and was scheduled to end the set. Yet the force of reaction persuaded JLT to return for an encore and ask if we fancied some Purple: and that his crack band (completed by Ken Sandin and Darby Todd) all knew the songs even if they had never rehearsed them together. I feared we might get a safe run through of ‘Smoke On The Water’ but instead they pulled off the greater musical virtuosity of ‘Highway Star’ with aplomb, even if I think Joe may have missed the odd vocal line.

It was a memorable end to an outstanding debut Wings of AOR. A series of well-chosen and in some cases unique performances, a lovely venue and friendly and accessible set up all made this one of the highest quality melodic rock festivals I have attended, and I have been to a few! The good news is that very strong hints were dropped that there may be further editions.

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

Review by Andy Nathan
Photos by Andy Nathan and Michele Kostiner

Russ Ballard is a Featured Artist at Get Ready to ROCK! Radio
Joe Lynn Turner is a Featured Artist at Get Ready to ROCK! Radio (interview links)


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 : VON GROOVE – Born To Rock

Frontiers Music [Release date : 15.05.26]

There can be few more explosive opening tracks than Von Groove’s ‘Once Is Not Enough’ from their self titled debut, 1992.

30 years later : they’ve got the band back together – Michael Shotton, Mathew Gerrard and the man with one name, M’laden. None of the tracks on their new album, Born To Rock, equal the dynamism on display that day, we would have been surprised if they did, but the music’s taut, high pressure hard rock still cuts it.

The title song’s tongue in cheek lyrics are a breath of fresh in a time when “rock stars” take themselves so seriously. That said, the song is faithful to its roots, so you can stamp your feet, bang your head, and play amazing solos on your air guitar while you listen. You can’t lose.

Clearly influenced by European power metal, lyrically and musically, the declamatory ‘Fearless’ and ‘Champion’ are something of a surprise. Very ‘Maiden, very ‘Priest “we are invincible,we rise above it all, we are the defenders, we are eagles in the sky, never to die, we are Fearless”. Both will resonate with genre aficionados.

‘Adrenaline’ and ‘Angela’ switch horses in midstream, from glammy hard rock with a thumping beat and a shout it out chorus, to stripped back, Seattle style rock, with big, stretched out chords, heavy on the bass, moody, economical and friction free.
A surprise around every corner.

Another pairing, ‘Undefeated’ and ‘Do It All Again’ share an admiration for Def Leppard. The first is maybe inclined to shape its own identity a little more, but the second worships at the altar of anthemic rock, as created on Hysteria by Mutt. Addictive.

On the album’s standout track, ‘Heart Of Forgiveness’ you can hear all of the collateral accumulated by Von Groove over the past 30 years being invested in the present.

It’s a powerful, chest beating rock song, sounding authoritative, offering clemency to the past only after staring it down. It’s a fine sentiment, delivered with the kind of conviction that only hard earned experience can justify. ****

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)


Single review: PARKER BARROW – Blinded

pb

Blinded is taken from Parker Barrow’s forthcoming album Hold The Mash, and you’d be forgiven for thinking you were listening to a new Stones single with the opening riff, as guitarist Alex Bender says the riff was given life as he imagined how Keith Richards would play it if he was in the band. It’s loose and it rolls for sure.

Dylan Turner then adds the rock with a Simon Kirke Free type drum groove. He also wrote the lyrics, about seeking inner redemption whilst the material world tries to drag you down. These words are ably belted out by his wife Megan Kane, and the tune becomes unmistakably Parker Barrow.

I’ve described Megan as a once in a generation vocalist before and I stand by those words. There are some outstanding female rock vocalists around at the moment but Megan takes it to a different level with such ease. The power, the range the phrasing the delivery all hers. It would be easy and lazy to compare her to Janis Joplin or Tina Turner, because she is in a field of her own and I dare say other vocalists will be compared to her as a bench mark in the future. She has a cheeky glint in her eye, struts like an excited child at a birthday party and throws the mic stand around like early Rod Stewart.

Back to the song – so we have The Stones and Free guesting on the rhythm, vocals sending shivers up your spine, then when the backing vocals kick off in the chorus the harmonies really remind me of Fanny, that very underrated pioneering all girl band from the 70’s. The middle eight features some understated guitar weaving between Alex Turner and second guitarist Will Tipton, and some nicely executed unexpected stops and starts created by the rhythm section of Dylan and Bassist Kyle Priber, and all sown together by the honkytonk ivory tinkling of Eric Safka.

This is twenty twenty six new and original rock n roll at it’s best by a long chalk This band has all the ingredients which are needed to stand out from the crowd – looks, attitude, style, musicianship, vocals, showmanship, and a great feeling of camaraderie. They are the embodiment of raunch n raw rock n roll and I hope you get Blinded, I have been. *****

Review by Andy Sharrocks

They are playing some UK dates in July to promote new album Hold The Mash, and you can watch the video for Blinded here:-

https://youtu.be/B8a4EkL3aPw

pb tour


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 : JOHN CORABI – New Day

Frontiers Music [Release date : 24.04.26]

John Corabi is the ex man…ex Motley Crue, ex Ratt, ex Brides Of Destruction but not yet ex-frontman of The Dead Daisies, a band with a greater membership turnover than Deep Purple.

There’s a strong core of social commentary running through his first solo album, New Day. And that’s a surprise, considering his producer and co writers, Marti Frederiksen, Paul (Winger) Taylor and Richard (G’N’R) Fortus are not known for politicising their rock’n’roll. But these songs focus more on philosophy than politics.

His music fuses classic ’70s rock, soul, and blues influences together. Like ‘That Memory’, a track with a soulful, hard rocking guitar groove that’s more in line with Joe Walsh, or the Eagles in one of their more energetic, down country moments. Stevie D from Buckcherry, and Charlie (Blackberry Smoke) Starr contribute the occasional thick cut riff and bluesy axe solo.

Corabi sets out his stall conversely but convincingly, as the saying goes, with the Beatlish title track and opener, ‘A New Day’. A big, in your face rock song, just brimming over with optimism.

It flies in the face of the album’s most prominent cut, ‘1969’, a clanging, thumping slice of hard edged country music, very CCR. The narrative reflects on the way in which the “Summer Of Love” turned sour, giving way to a darker side … peace and love don’t last forever.

‘Faith Hope Love’ is an almost ballad, a sad eyed reflection of the gradual decline in human trust and intimacy over the years.

Like a few other songs here it smokes and smoulders, moving purposefully towards the climactic moments.

In fairness, there are as many upbeat moments as downbeat… ‘When I Was Young’, a tale of self reflection and quiet celebration, and ‘Cosi Bella’ and are testament to that. There’s conviction in his gritty, yet graceful, been-round-the-block a few times vocals.

The balladic ‘Love That’ll Never Be’, buoyed by acoustic instrumentation, including strings, is a song of silent heartbreak narrated through a woman’s eyes. It burns slowly yet flares brightly at the right times.

Album standout… from an album of many standouts. ****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: LADY MAISERY AND JIMMY ALDRIDGE & SID GOLDSMITH – Wakefire

Wakefire

Bandcamp [Release date 01.05.26]

After several years delighting audiences with their wintertime project Awake Arise, the folk supergroup of Lady Maisery (Hannah James, Rowan Rheingans & Hazel Askew) and Jimmy Aldridge & Sid Goldsmith, have joined forces again to celebrate the summer.

Do make sure you invest in the CD as it is a special double length album-book, wonderfully illustrated throughout and with lyrics and prose, plus the all-important stories behind the songs. With twenty seven tracks in total the listener really does get their money’s worth and more!

The album flows through the summer, starting with ‘Summer’s In’ and ‘The Cuckoo’, going right through to harvest time in September. A folk concept album without any prog rock noodling nonsense!

Being released on May 1, May Day, little wonder there are a few protest songs on the album including ‘May Day’, asking the all important question in its chorus – which side are you on? The song features spoken word, as do many of the songs, and it adds to overall strength of the album.

Highlights include ‘May Morning Dew’, ‘River Came Back’, their version of Bela Fleck’s ‘What’cha Gonna Do?’ and ‘Harvest Festival’, which is built around a spoken word passage from Laurie Lee’s ‘Village Christmas and Other Notes on the English Year’.

An album to be listened to in one go, although the single (an Ivor Cutler song) ‘I’m Going to a Field’ does lend itself to being ‘stand-a-alone’ and perfect for airplay & playlists.

Lady Maisey and Jimmy Aldridge & Sid Goldsmith have created another seasonal delight, full of thoughtful lyrics, impassioned playing and tunes that are both melodious and memorable. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie

If the star system was built on presentation and quantity, then this album would be getting a big five, but unfortunately its not so I have to give it a three for effort.

It is a lavish presentation without doubt – the cd comes in a book, not a booklet in a cd case, a cd in a book, with a hard back, colour photos, lyrics and words. There are 27 tracks in all, yes 27, it wasn’t a typo. Although a fair few of them clock in under two minutes.

Lady Maisery are Hannah James, Hazel Askew and Rowan Rheingans, with Jimmy Aldridge and Sid Goldsmith being two blokes they bumped into in the pub. Just kidding, they are all well respected folk musicians and have collaborated before on a winters themed project called Awake Arise

On first listening, this album sounds like standard trad folk fayre, but delve deeper on subsequent listens and there are some pertinent themes going on, like workers rights and the environment, tackled in clever subtle ways.

There are quite a few spoken word passages among the 27 tracks, but all the tracks reference summer in one way or another. Released on the first of May, the album is a journey from the start to the end of summer and to that end it achieves its point magnificently. It kicks off with Anne Briggs, Summers In which features some new cheeky verses by Hannah James, but most noticeably some beautiful vocal harmonies, which carry throughout the album.

There are some pieces by Laurie Lee, he of Cider With Rosie fame, in fact I think the first passage about him getting lost in some long grass as a child is from that very book. It features spoken word passages and songs written by all the artists individually and even has a dear little Ivor Cutler song, sung a capella, about sitting in field, and what more summer can you get than sitting in a field. Also present is a Robin Williamson from The Incredible String Band song with Good As Gone. from 1965. There are some history lessons about summer traditions in Padworth, Mayday workers celebrations, some recent recollections of summers in Italy, with a poke at global warming, and fires. And here I learnt something new – bonfires were originally made from bones, clean bones I hasten to add, and it doesn’t mean good fire which I have thought all my life. I love shit like this, my head is full of trivia. So the other two fires which people indulged in on Midsummers Day in the 15th century were St Johns fire made of bones and wood, and the wakefire made of just wood. I kid you not it’s all in here.

It is a massive project and must have taken a hell of a lot of preparation and fore thought to collate all the ideas and then execute them in such a cohesive manner.

But I keep coming back to Peter And The Wolf, one of the first musical and spoken word journeys I made as a child, where you were transported right into the moment and the story with anticipation, but on subsequent listening’s it had lost it’s mystique as you knew what was coming. I can imagine it is a great live experience.

I hope it does well as obviously a lot of love as well as money has been poured into this, and it deserves some recognition, at least in the folk world. ***

Review by Andy Sharrocks


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: SKINDRED, THE ROLLING STONES, BURNING ROPE (May 2026)

EUROPE - The Lowry, Manchester, 22 October 2023

News - Album News

Accept celebrate 50 years with a new release, ‘Teutonic Titans 1976–2026‘ due on September 4 via Napalm Records. Guests on the album include Kirk Hammett, Rob Halford, Tobias Forge, KK Downing, Chris Jericho and more.

The Alarm’s final album, ‘Transformation’, originally scheduled for release in 2025 but put on hold in the wake of Mike Peters’ death in April last year, will now be released on May 29 via Twenty-First Century Recordings/Virgin Music Group.

Anthrax released ‘It’s For the Kids’ on May 15 ahead of their new album, ‘Cursum Perficio’, which is due on September 18 in North America via Megaforce and in Europe through Nuclear Blast.

Kris Barras Band release their latest album ‘Monsters We Made’ on August 14 through Earache Records.

Stax Records and Craft Recordings have announced a vinyl reissue of the compilation album Stax Does the Beatles’. Originally released in 2007 this reissue is due on June 26.

Gerry Beckley of America will release a new solo studio albumMerciful’ on August 28.

Burning Rope release their second album ‘Dissolution’ on May 26, with the lead single ‘Houdini’ released on May 26.

Cancer Bats release their eighth studio album, ‘Give Me Dirt’, on August 7 via Bat Skull Records/Marshall Records.

Silent Rage’s Jesse Damon has released his compilation album ‘Anthology’ in digital format and it includes three previously unreleased tracks.

Deep Purple release their new album ‘Splat!’ on July 3 on earMUSIC.

Def Leppard plan to release their next album in early 2027.

John Diva & The Rockets Of Love release their new album ‘Your Favorite Drug’ on October 16 via Frontiers and ‘Bigger Than America’ was released as the first single off the album.

John Elefante releases ‘Stories: The John Elefante Collection’ on August 7. The 19 track compilation includes a brand-new recording of Kansas’s ‘Chasing Shadows’ and a re-recorded version of ‘Dust in the Wind’, along with highlights from his time in Mastedon, Kansas, and his solo work.

Europe (pictured) return with their 12th studio album, ‘Come This Madness’,  set for release on September 25 via Silver Lining Music/Hell & Back Recordings. ‘One On One’ was released as the lead single on April 28.

Flotsam and Jetsam release their new albumRats In The Temple’ via Napalm Records on August 28.

Grand release their new album ‘Guilty Pleasures’ on August 21 through Frontiers with the first single, ‘Wild Heart’, released at the end of last month.

The HU release their new album ‘Hun’ on July 24 via Better Noise Music.

King Crimson will release a new live album 2014 NYC’ through DGM/Panegryic on July 10.

The L.I.F.E. Project, a collaboration between Stone Sour guitarist and songwriter Josh Rand and vocalist Casandra Carson have signed with Frontiers.

Love/Hate’s latest studio album Punk Rock Fiesta!’ will be available in a deluxe edition via Kenyon Records on May 1.

Madball release their latest album, ‘Not Your Kingdom’, on July 24 via Nuclear Blast.

The Mary Tyler Whores release their debut album ‘As Filthy As We Wanna Be’ on September 25 via Cadiz Music.

Metallica will release ‘Reload (Remastered)’ on June 26 via Blackened Recordings.

Motionless In White release their new album, ‘Decades’, on July 17 via Roadrunner Records. The first single released from the album, ‘Playing God’, features Slipknot’s Corey Taylor. 

A 20th anniversary edition of Motorhead’s ‘Kiss Of Death’ album is released on July 3 via BMG.

My Chemical Romance have announced the deluxe edition reissue of their final album ‘Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys’. It will be released on July 10 via Reprise/Warner Records.

Nestor release ’Live at Gothenburg Film Studios’ on August 14 via Napalm Records.

Frontiers release a Night Ranger ‘Best Of’ on August 28 which includes some newly re-recorded older songs by the band, including the recent single, ‘Don’t Tell Me You Love Me’.

Parker Barrow release their new album ‘Hold The Mash’ on July 17.

The new Rolling Stones album will be called ‘Foreign Tongues’ with a release date of July 10. Guests on the album include Paul McCartney, The Cure’s Robert Smith and Steve Winwood.

Saxon will release their new album on January 22, 2027 with the first single from the album due in September.

Seven Kingdoms has announced their new album ‘Sono Sola’ will be released in the autumn.

Sha-Boom released their new single ‘Never Stop’ on April 29 taken from their upcoming album, Another Nail In The Coffin’, due via Silver Lining Music on August 28.

Martin Simpson has released ‘The Recruited Collier’ ahead of his new album, ‘Some Kind of Jubilee’, which is released on September 25 via Topic Records.

Sleeping With Sirens release their new album, ‘An Ending In Itself’, on June 12 via Rise Records.

Stanley Simmons will release their debut album ‘Dancing While the World is Ending’ on August 28.

These Wicked Rivers release their latest album, ‘Fire And Folklore’, on October 2 via Fat Earth Records.

Xandria release their new album ‘Eclipse’ on Napalm Records on August 7. ‘The Shannon’s Home’ was the first single released off the album.

In the studio…

Autopsy will begin recording a new album later this year…Blind Guardian will start pre-production on their next album at the end of the year with a view to recording it in early 2027. The band also announced they have no plans to tour this year….Bullet For My Valentine are currently recording with a view to releasing a new album early next year…Elton John has just finished recording his new album…Marillion have told fans they’re “very much heading into the closing stages” of recording their new album…Mastodon have completed recording of their next studio album…P.O.D. have completed work on their new album…Raven have written ‘a lot of songs’ for their upcoming album…ex-Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo and Jeff Scott Soto have been confirmed as gusting on William Shatner’s upcoming heavy metal covers album…Staind have competed work on new album for release early next year…Therapy? start recording their new album this month

Single life…

Deep Purple released ‘Arrogant Boy’ on May 13…Evergrey released ‘Leaving the Emptiness’ on May 6…Five Finger Death Punch released ‘Eye of the Storm’ on May 15…Peter Gabriel released his latest single ‘Won’t Stand Down’ on May 1…Gunshine released ‘Finite’ ahead of their forthcoming ‘Grand Rising’ due out digitally on July 24 through Create Music Group…Jessica Lynn released ‘Truckin’ on May 1…Muse released ‘Hexagons’ on May 19…Stanley Simmons released ‘Temporary Love’ on May 8

News - Tours and Gigs

Upcoming (Gigs – UK)

Newly announced UK tours (2026 unless stated):

Ash (Dec), Beartooth (Oct), Billy Corgan (Royal Festival Hall, London Sep 1 &2), The Damned (Nov, Dec), Five Finger Death Punch + Lamb of God (Jan 2027), Robben Ford (Jan, Feb 2027), Gong (Jul-Sep),  Heaven 17 (Oct), Manic Street Preachers + Suede (Oct, Nov), Puscifer + A Perfect Circle (Nov), Todd Rundgren (Sep), Martin Simpson (Sep-Dec), Dave Hill’s Slade (Dec), Theory of a Deadman (Feb 2027), Devin Townsend (Sep, Oct), Van Morrison (Sep 23, 24, 27-29 British Airways ARC, London), The View (Feb, Mar 2027), Rick Wakeman (Feb, Mar 2027),

Upcoming (USA/ROW)

Newly announced US & European tours (2026 unless stated):

Blacktop Mojo (US), Cheap Trick (US), Clutch (US), Judy Collins (US 2027), Billy Corgan (EU), Roger Daltrey (US), Delain (EU), Ensifrem + Firewind (US), Enuff Z’Nuff + Pretty Boy Floyd (AU), Five Finger Death Punch + Lamb of God (EU 2027), The Fixx (US), Flotsam and Jetsam + Mortal Sin (AU), Gong (EU), Grand Funk Railroad (US), GWAR (US), Journey (US), Kansas (US), Killswitch Engage (AU, NZ), L7 (US farewell tour), Lamb of God + Trivium (AU), Lynyrd Skynyrd (US), Mammoth (US), Public Image Limited (AU 2027), Puscifer + A Perfect Circle (EU), Todd Rundgren (EU), Santana (US), The Smashing Pumpkins (US), Squeeze + Adam Ant + Haircut 100 (US), .38 Special (US), Theory of a Deadman + Sevendust (US), Robin Trower (US), Adrian Vandenberg + Marco Mendoza + Vinnie Moore (US), Wednesday 13 (US), Hayley Williams (US),

fmnov

Tour updates & postponed/cancelled gigs & tours:

Kasim Sulton will stand in for Eric Bloom on the next few Blue Oyster Cult dates as Bloom recovers from recent surgery.

Drowning Pool have cancelled their South American tour dates due this month due to low ticket sales.

Eclipse have cancelled their Australian tour due this month due to issues with the promoter.

The Knack have reformed for a handful of US dates. The band features original member bassist Prescott Niles, Gabe Niles on drums, Rocky Kramer on guitar, and Mr. Big’s Matt Starr on vocals.

The Psychedelic Furs have cancelled their upcoming US tour due to “a serious medical issue.”

Spin Doctors have cancelled their upcoming Australia and New Zealand dates this month due to “unexpected logistical shifts & circumstances.” It was set to be the band’s first tour there since 1993.

Static-X have cancelled all their remaining 2026 tour dates due to “a serious medical issue.”

Lucinda Williams has cancelled all her upcoming UK and European tour dates due to health issues.

Other Stuff

Skindred  landed their first ever UK number one album with ‘You Got This’. They also topped the vinyl, physical sales and rock charts.

Red Hot Chilli Peppers have sold their music catalogue to Warners Music Group for $300m.

Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain has announced his autobiography, ‘Hello Boys and Girls!’, which will be published on October 22 via Harper Nonfiction,

The Beatles at 3 Saville Row fan experience will open next year.

Ian Hunter will be honoured with a Blue Plaque in his hometown of Oswestry, Shropshire.

Gregg Allman: The Music of My Soul will have its US theatrical release on June 17.

The streaming service Deezer has said there are now roughly 75,000 new tracks made with AI technology being added to the service every day, which amounts to 44% of the total number.

Little Red Kings have announced they have split-up.

Dragonforce have announced Alissa White-Gluz (ex-Arch Enemy) as their newest member and first frontwoman. She will join Marc Hudson as co-vocalist with the band.

Todd Michael Hall is “stepping down” as vocalist of Riot V, with Valentino Francavilla fronting the band on their live dates until they find a permanent singer.

Guitarist Joff Bailey has joined Cradle of Filth.

Grand Funk Railroad’s Max Carl has announced he is retiring from touring due to a medical issue. Grand Funk Railroad drummer Don Brewer and keyboardist Tim Cashion will handle vocals for the band going forward.

News - RIP

Former Santana vocalist Alex Ligertwood.

Producer Jack Douglas who worked with Aerosmith, Alice Cooper, Cheap Trick and many more.

Dr. Hook’s Dennis Locorriere.

Ike Willis, former vocalist and guitarist with Frank Zappa’s band.


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 : DEGREED – Curtain Calls

Frontiers [Release date 24.04.26]

Eighth full length album from respected Swedish Hard Rock band, Degreed…Robin Eriksson, Mats Eriksson, Mikael Blanc and Daniel Johansson.

Their sound is impossible to categorise. Is it toughened up AOR, melodic hard rock, metallised hard rock ? Or what?
And that’s a problem only because most critics like to put bands into pigeonholes. It makes writing a review easier.

We got captured by the “exciting urban rock” (we’ll call it that) on the band’s The Leftovers’ EP, released last year.
And now the hooks on Curtain Calls dig just as deep.

Produced with an impressive sonic feel by the band’s drummer, Mats Eriksson, in his Boombridge Studio, Kopparberg, Curtain Calls runs the gauntlet between all those musical definitions.

This band is like a battle hardened boxer, fast on his feet, confident in his ability to deliver toughened up, melodic and muscular hard rock. Punching his weight, no wasted energy, no pointless moves.

There’s AOR in there, struggling to breathe at times, breaking the surface in the right moments, and sharp edged contemporary rock, noisy, rumbling but carefully calibrated.

Curtain Calls differentiates itself from others by combining the two, occasionally taking a risk, throwing big, adventurous swings that always land.

Like openers, ‘One Helluva Ride’ and ‘Holding On To Yesterday’, both taking off down the highway to hell, with bass heavy rhythms and high octane riffing fuelling a firing-on-all-six vocal.

But even the songs that break the self imposed rules impress.

Teaser track ‘Believe’, and ‘Matter Of The Heart’ veer off tangentially, going deep into the AOR zone.
Fittingly, ‘Guiding Light’ walks the middle ground like it belongs there, and ‘Broken Dreams’ follows a compelling symphonic rock path.

Two splendid slabs of pumping melodic hard rock, ‘My Blood’ and ‘Curtain Calls’ both arrive at the point where the Scandi melodic rock world embraces Canada’s Harem Scarem.

Odd man out, ‘The Rambler’ meets none of the definitions, building on a repetitive, acoustic guitar hook to make its mark.
Cranked up electric guitars add considerable rock drama, with lyrical nods to Kansas and Led Zeppelin leading to an epic climax, lyrically and musically.

All that said, ‘The Rambler’ aside, none of these songs is an instant classic.
Curtain Calls takes its time to insinuate its way inside.

And eventually, it does. ****

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: HARDLINE – Shout

HARDLINE - Shout

SPV/Steamhammer [Release date 17.04.26]

It’s some 34 years since Hardline’s classic album ‘Double Eclipse’ with a line-up that boasted Neal Schon in its ranks.

Whilst it might have seemed like a last gasp for hair metal in 1992, Hardline’s frontman Johnny Gioeli has kept the name (and the flame) burning. ‘Shout’ is a particularly strong addition to the back catalogue.

One of the issues facing this band is the changing personnel and ‘Shout’ sees the album arrival of Luca Princiotta on guitar joining one-time Frontiers house producer (also Eden’s Curse, Edge Of Forever) Alessandro Del Vecchio on keys, Ana Portalupi (bass), and Marco Di Salvia (drums). From a songwriting and production point of view it is Del Vecchio who sprinkles the fairy dust.

The album’s opening salvo (and title track) is one of the best things you’ll hear in melodic hard rock this year (or any year) Gioeli evidently inspired with renewed vigour and even Billy Idol-patented growls. “I Rise up…just shout” indeed.

The forward propulsion on this album is its main attraction and this continues with ‘Rise Up’ topped up with a typically purposeful Princiotta solo and the rocky ‘It Owns You’.

There’s even a killer ballad, the Scorpions cover ‘When You Came Into My Life’, featuring another impassioned vocal. It’s a bit like classic Winger. Half a star has to be docked for the inclusion of another, somewhat insipid, ballad ‘Glow’.

For an out and out rocker ‘Rise Above No Fear’ takes some beating whilst ‘Welcome To The Thunder’ may well be a natural gig opener as it pretty much sums up the nature of the current enterprise.

There is no doubt that some of the riffs and melodies will be redolent of something else but all is delivered with great traction and enthusiasm. There is also a bluesy swagger to some tracks that pushes Hardline into Whitesnake territory but House of Lords is another band that comes to mind.

There is no doubt, though, that ‘Shout’ is an irrepressible return to form, and former glories.

Hardline had to cancel some scheduled UK dates last November due to “visa issues” although they are currently touring in Europe. Let’s hope they return to Blighty, new album tucked firmly under their chains and leather, and play the damn thing in its entirety. ****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: LUKE JAMES WILLIAMS – Limes Hotel

lime

Bandcamp  [Release date 17.04.26]

Some people want to be Kiss, some people Queen, some, Kyle Minogue Marvin Gaye or Britney Spears, the list is endless, fame, fortune and formula with capitol F’s .But some people have no other choice than to put their art out into the universe as it first entered their heads. Cambridge born Luke James Williams is one of these artists, he just wants to be himself, as he declares on track five of this new album Limes Hotel – “Don’t be anyone else, don’t be afraid of yourself”.

This is such a unique, quirky and magnificently English collection of very original acoustic songs. Apparently he has been dubbed, The James Taylor of The Fens, which does a disservice to Luke in my mind. Literally from the start, you can tell it’s something different and special. Seconds into the first song the chord changes in the wrong place, then changes back again in the wrong place, but so in the right place too, it makes you sit up and listen. What have we here you think.

His pronunciation is quite Billy Bragg, with a tone of that chappy from The Arctic Monkeys, but that is about the only comparison you’ll get. The songs run through highs and lows. The wonderful self help lyrics of Knocking For Reasons, where he declares “its not my fault, and if I can convince myself of all of this all of this, all of the time I’ll be alright“, with a trombone boning away in the background It makes me want to skip down the street singing this at the top of my lungs, whilst engaging strangers to dance. But of course I’d be arrested, so I hope I can refrain from doing that.

The lows include Village Green, a heartbreaking song about the loss of a friend , with the opening line “It’s a sight no mother should see – a child lifeless amongst the leaves” Set to a lone strummed guitar, reminiscent of Lennon’s Working Class Hero, it really conveys the pain he and the mother feel. Clever stuff.

Elsewhere he covers the consumerism in us all (Milk And Medicine), greed (Full Moon), which features an amazing raga esque outro by Dear Wife, a Hertfordshire based folk singer. The last song, Hollows and Branches is a tribute to a friend who turned Luke on to the wonders of nature.

In his own words he says -“I hope this album shows a songwriter unafraid to lay bare and confront the questions and emotions that make us all human. I’m a big swirling mess of ugliness and beauty, light and dark, just trying to make sense of it all,”

“These songs have lived in my head for a long time, so I can’t wait to set them loose in the world for people to hear, interact with, and make their own. Especially at the moment, I hope the rawness of these songs acts as a bit of a salve for what’s going on in the world.”

Limes Hotel really is a unique album, and one which I have to keep listening to, even though it is out of my sphere of preference. It reminds me of days of my youth discovering new mystical artists like Kevin Ayers, Keith Christmas, and John Martyn. Not that he is like any of these artists although he may carry an essence of them all. And that is the fantastic thing about music – it keeps giving, even when you least expect it.

Luke is playing some live dates in May – see date sheet, and get out to see him if you like your music served alternatively. *****

Review by Andy Sharrocks

WEDNESDAY 6 MAY London, The Harrison

FRIDAY 8 MAY Sheffield, Mary Street Live

THURSDAY 14 MAY Coventry, LTB Showrooms

FRIDAY 15 MAY Bury, Wax & Beans

FRIDAY 12 JUNE J3, Cambridge Junction

THURSDAY 23 JULY Bishops Stortford, South Mill Arts

THURSDAY 27 – MONDAY 31 AUGUST The Great Vegan Gathering 2026, Gilwell Park, London

SATURDAY 5 SEPTEMBER Bellingham All Acoustic Music Festival 2026


Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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

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




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


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

How to Listen Live?

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

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

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


Power Plays w/c 11 May 2026

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

Featured Albums w/c 11 May 2026

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


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

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

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

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


Recent (last 30 days)


Gig review: CHRISTOPHER CROSS – Bristol Beacon, 20 May 2026

CHRISTOPHER CROSS - Bristol Beacon, 20 May 2026

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

Gig review: CHRISTOPHER CROSS – Bristol Beacon, 20 May 2026

CHRISTOPHER CROSS - Bristol Beacon, 20 May 2026

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

Album review: CLAIRE HAMILL BAND – A House Among The Trees

cb

Bandcamp [Release date 25.04.26] Claire Hamill, the grand dame of British folk, rock and prog, who you may well have never heard of releases her 12th solo album since 1971. There are not many female survivors from this period and certainly … Continue reading

Gig review: CASSIDY PARIS – The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 14 May 2026

CASSIDY PARIS- The Cavern, Raynes Park, London, 14 May 2026

A lot has happened to young Australian rocker Cassidy Paris in the 21 months since she was last at this venue. Last spring, days after I saw her supporting Harem Scarem, a UK tour suddenly collapsed amid distressing personal circumstances. … Continue reading

Album review : FAITH NYC – Love Is A Wish Away

FAITH 150 NYC Love cover

Bandcamp [Release date : 15.05.26] Faith NYC is immensely talented singer/ writer/ bass player, Felice Rosser. “Felice Rosser brought her Detroit ears to punk, having been teethed on Motown. Reggae became a powerful influence too” (Rolling Stone/ New York Times … Continue reading

Album review : THE 5th DIMENSION – Let The Sunshine In – The Soul City and Bell Albums (6CD Boxset)

5th 150 DIMENSION Boxset image

Cherry Red [Release date 29.05.26] The 5th Dimension, five vocalists, three male, two female, burst onto the US music scene in 1966. Nobody comes from nowhere of course, no matter what the media headlines might say. Each one, Jimmy Davis, … Continue reading

Album review: VIRGINMARYS – Beyond The House of Fires

VIRGINMARYS - Beyond the House of Fires

Website [Release date 22.05.26] The Virginmarys new album is both new and old, in that is their reinterpretation of their most recent album, 2024’s ‘Beyond the House of Fires’. This time around the Virginmarys – Ally Dickaty and Danny Dolan … Continue reading

Gig review: LUKE JAMES WILLIAMS – Wax and Beans, Bury, 15 May 2026

gig1

This is the second time I’ve been to this venue, and I would highly recommend it for anybody in the Bury/Rochdale/Heywood area. Get to see an artist in an intimate setting whilst drinking coffee or alcohol. The first time was … Continue reading

Single review: THE ROLLING STONES – In the Stars/Rough and Twisted

rs

I went to a gig in a record shop and as I was waiting for the artist to come on, I spied the new Stones single In The Stars, so it was my duty to buy it wasn’t it. I’ve … Continue reading

Gig review: COLIN BLUNSTONE – The Sub Rooms, Stroud, 14 May 2026

COLIN BLUNSTONE - The Sub Rooms, Stroud, 14 May 2026

Colin Blunstone represents that rare and sadly dying breed of consummate performer, with six decades of trial and tribulation in the music industry.  A real trooper. As Colin recounted tonight his period of chart activity with The Zombies was short … Continue reading

Album review: BEGGARS BLISS – S/t

bliss

Website [Release date 22.05.26] Derby based Beggars Bliss formed in 2024, with a mantra of – “if it’s not fun, it’s not worth doing.” Their line-up is Henry John (vocals, guitar), Milly Ayesha (keyboards, vocals), Dan Griffiths (bass, vocals) and Chris … Continue reading

Gig review: WILL WILDE – Thames Side Brewery, Staines-upon-Thames, 3 May 2026

WILL WILDE- Thames Side Brewery, Staines-upon-Thames, 3 May 2026

Blues rock is a genre that rewards individual virtuosity, but 95 per cent of the time the star is a guitar hero. So Will Wilde stands out from the crowd with his chosen instrument being the harmonica. I’d been very … Continue reading

Album review : ROBIN BECK – Living Proof

ROBIN 150 BECK Living image

Frontiers Music [Release date : 15.05.26] Despite releasing 11 albums, many of them just bristling with songs written by proven hit makers, Robin Beck has survived an absence of best selling music, beyond her debut single ‘The First Time’, in … Continue reading

Album review: W.A.S.P. – s/t

WASP

Madfish [Release date 21.05.26] Record label Madfish have been working some of the early W.A.S.P. catalogue, including The Savage 7 CD boxset. Here is the band’s 1984 debut and in line with all the other Madfish releases I’ve encountered, it … Continue reading

Album review : FRONTLINE – Rebirth

Frontline 150 Rebirth image

Frontiers [Release date : 15.05.26] Calling your new album Rebirth, 20 years after your last release, seems quite an understatement. But still, Frontline wade back out confidently into melodic rock’s fast flowing waters. Many have attempted the same kind of … Continue reading

Gig review: CATS IN SPACE- Half Moon, Putney, London, 26 April 2026

CATS IN SPACE- Half Moon, Putney, London, 26 April 2026

In January 2016, having just released an album in ‘Too Many Gods’ and begun to attract attention for its seventies inspired, yet original, songwriting, Cats In Space made their live debut at the Half Moon at Putney, which I was … Continue reading

Gig review: LIGHTNING THREADS – The Half Moon, Putney, 3 May 2026

lt

The recently refurbished Half Moon welcomed a Sheffield based double header over the bank holiday weekend with headliners, Lightning Threads, backed up by The Fargo Railroad Co. Fargo are something else! Their light hearted but infectious take on Southern Country … Continue reading

Gig review: WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL – Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

WINGS OF AOR FESTIVAL- Arbis, Norrkoping, Sweden, 24-25 April 2026

The status of Scandinavia as the spiritual home of melodic rock is reflected not just in the volume of bands there, but an increasing number of festivals dedicated to, or featuring a goodly number of, melodic acts. When a new … Continue reading

Album review : VON GROOVE – Born To Rock

VON GROOVE 150 Born image

Frontiers Music [Release date : 15.05.26] There can be few more explosive opening tracks than Von Groove’s ‘Once Is Not Enough’ from their self titled debut, 1992. 30 years later : they’ve got the band back together – Michael Shotton, … Continue reading

Single review: PARKER BARROW – Blinded

pb

Blinded is taken from Parker Barrow’s forthcoming album Hold The Mash, and you’d be forgiven for thinking you were listening to a new Stones single with the opening riff, as guitarist Alex Bender says the riff was given life as … Continue reading

Album review : JOHN CORABI – New Day

JOHN 150 CORABI New Day image

Frontiers Music [Release date : 24.04.26] John Corabi is the ex man…ex Motley Crue, ex Ratt, ex Brides Of Destruction but not yet ex-frontman of The Dead Daisies, a band with a greater membership turnover than Deep Purple. There’s a … Continue reading

Album review: LADY MAISERY AND JIMMY ALDRIDGE & SID GOLDSMITH – Wakefire

Lady Maisery and Jimmy Aldridge and Sid Goldsmith - Wakefire: A Summer Album

Bandcamp [Release date 01.05.26] After several years delighting audiences with their wintertime project Awake Arise, the folk supergroup of Lady Maisery (Hannah James, Rowan Rheingans & Hazel Askew) and Jimmy Aldridge & Sid Goldsmith, have joined forces again to celebrate … Continue reading

News: SKINDRED, THE ROLLING STONES, BURNING ROPE (May 2026)

GRTR! News

Accept celebrate 50 years with a new release, ‘Teutonic Titans 1976–2026‘ due on September 4 via Napalm Records. Guests on the album include Kirk Hammett, Rob Halford, Tobias Forge, KK Downing, Chris Jericho and more. The Alarm’s final album, ‘Transformation’, originally scheduled … Continue reading

Album review : DEGREED – Curtain Calls

DEGREED - Curtain Calls

Frontiers [Release date 24.04.26] Eighth full length album from respected Swedish Hard Rock band, Degreed…Robin Eriksson, Mats Eriksson, Mikael Blanc and Daniel Johansson. Their sound is impossible to categorise. Is it toughened up AOR, melodic hard rock, metallised hard rock … Continue reading

Album review: HARDLINE – Shout

HARDLINE - Shout

SPV/Steamhammer [Release date 17.04.26] It’s some 34 years since Hardline’s classic album ‘Double Eclipse’ with a line-up that boasted Neal Schon in its ranks. Whilst it might have seemed like a last gasp for hair metal in 1992, Hardline’s frontman … Continue reading

Album review: LUKE JAMES WILLIAMS – Limes Hotel

LUKE JAMES WILLIAMS - Limes Hotel

Bandcamp  [Release date 17.04.26] Some people want to be Kiss, some people Queen, some, Kyle Minogue Marvin Gaye or Britney Spears, the list is endless, fame, fortune and formula with capitol F’s .But some people have no other choice than … Continue reading