REVIEWS DECEMBER 2025
«November | Index | Jan. 2026»Vick LeCar: Never Stranded
Vick LeCar on Dec. 30 - Digital SingleFollowing a string of singles in 2025, guitarist Vick LeCar close the year with 1 last single (there will probably be more next year though). It's a re-recording of one of his most meaningful tracks. And this actually marks the third time LeCar has brought "Never Stranded" to life - first it was with Joe Lynn Turner (RAINBOW, Yngwie Malmsteen, DEEP PURPLE etc), then on Vick LeCar's BLUE MOON, and now in its biggest, boldest form yet with a powerhouse lineup backing him in 2025.
This is a bluesy hard rock song in the good old tradition, and it's also energetic. Another great song from Vick. This is something that fans of hard rock from the 70s should add to their New Year's Eve playlist.
vicklecar.com
WILDHUNT: Aletheia
Jawbreaker Records on Jan. 2, 2026 - LP, CD, Digital"Aletheia" is the second album from Austrian heavy metal band WILDHUNT. It's already 10 years since their debut album, "Descending", was released. They seems to have their roots in the classic school, yet they doesn't really sound like any other band. It's detailed and energetic with epic song structures. This is obviously very skilled musicians who take everything up a few levels, and I would say that they are on the border to thrash metal actually, because it's just as technical as some of the early thrash bands. And nothing wrong with that as long as you still make good music. And this band know how to make good music.
Most of these songs are around 7 to 8 and a half minutes long. But there's 2 shorter pieces as well. The last song is as long as 11 and a half minutes.
jawbreaker.se | wildhunt.at
EXCAVATED GRAVES: Life Isn't For Everyone
Selfmadegod Records on Jan. 2, 2026 - MCDUseless and really stupid beginning of this EP. But after that it sounds like an old death metal demo. This band is hardly aiming for a clean and polished sound, which just makes it more raw and brutal. Most tracks are around 3 and a half minutes, which is enough as there's no need for more.
This Polish band is the latest musical incarnation of Piotr Sabarański (ex-PARRICIDE) and Michał "Stoker" Stopa (ex-FAM, DISSENTER). Their sound is rooted in the European scene of the late 80s and early 90s. But instead of the characteristic melodies of that era, they deliver sheer heaviness, unrestrained ferocity, and a twisted sense of melody enhanced by a touch of chaos and crushing breaks. Worth checking out for fans of old school death metal.
Except for Piotr and Stoker, these 5 tracks also features people like Bartłomiej "Bruno" Waruszewski (PROTOTYP, ex-AZARATH), Michał Kaszczyszyn (ex-NEAGHI), and Mariusz "Mel" Miernik (ex-DAMNABLE, ex-SQUASH BOWELS).
selfmadegod.com
VIOLET: Somewhere, Somehow
Metalapolis Records - Digital SingleYoung German AOR band VIOLET return with a new single. It's 1 of 3 new songs from their upcoming EP, "Silhouettes", which will be released in February 2026. This is a catchy and melodic anthem in the 80s tradition, and it's said to be something for fans of STARSHIP, HEART, TOTO, and ROXETTE. But I'm pretty sure that any fan of rock from the 80s will like this. So if you're one of them, check this out at once, becuase this is really good stuff.
violet.spread.link/somewhere-somehow | violetband.de | metalapolis.eu
WASTING TIME: Ripped Blue Jeans
People Of Punk Rock Records - Digital SingleWASTING TIME hailing from Toronto, Canada, and play American 90s pop punk. This is something for fans of melodic punk rockers like GREEN DAY and BLINK 182. A really good song and absolutely worth a try if you like this kind of stuff. What else I should say is a big question though..
The band formed in 2017. They has released 5 EPs and 3 full-length albums so far, but also toured extensively across Canada, Japan, and Korea.
bit.ly/RippedBlueJeans_PS | facebook.com/wastingtimemusicofficial
The FAKE FRIENDS: Sucker Born Every Minute
Stomp Records - Digital SingleThis is the first taste of the upcoming debut album, "Let's Not Overthink This", from Montreal post-punks The FAKE FRIENDS. It's described as "a sharp, melodic hit of dance-punk and post-punk energy for fans of PARQUET COURTS, CULTURE ABUSE, YARD ACT, and early-2000s alt-rock grit". I have never ever even heard of any of those bands that they mention, but it sounds like the description is correct anyway and I like post-punk. It might not be a hit as they call it, but it's not a bad song at all. So this is in other words worth a try if you would like to shake loose to some post-punk.
orcd.co/suckerborn | stomprecords.com/bands/the-fake-friends
BRAZEN ABBOT: Guilty As Sin (reissue) / Live And Learn (reissue)
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, Digital / CD, DigitalBRAZEN ABBOT was originally conceived as a studio project by Bulgarian guitarist, producer, and songwriter Nikolo Kotzev. The band has since performed live on several occasions, particularly in the early 2000s. A unique feature of BRAZEN ABBOT is its use of multiple singers on each album. Göran Edman (ex-Yngwie Malmsteen, John Norum, MÅRRAN etc etc) and Joe Lynn Turner (ex-Yngwie Malmsteen, RAINBOW, DEEP PURPLE) have contributed with vocals on most of their records. Initially, Kotzev planned to work with a single vocalist, Göran Edman, but due to contractual restrictions he could only record 2 songs for the debut album. The "Voice of Rock" Glenn Hughes (ex-DEEP PURPLE, BLACK SABBATH, TRAPEZE etc) was then lined up to sing the remaining tracks, but similar issues limited him to 3 songs. To complete the album, Thomas Vikström (TALK OF THE TOWN, THERION) was brought in, and Kotzev was so satisfied with the outcome that he decided to continue the multi-singer approach for future albums. However, during live performances, Joe Lynn Turner usually handled all lead vocals.
"Guilty As Sin" was originally released in 2003, and was a bold comeback with 3 excellent vocalists: Joe Lynn Turner, Jørn Lande and Göran Edman, each contributing 4 songs. And the album also features EUROPE members John Levén on bass, Ian Haugland on drums and Mic Michaeli on keyboards. So this it's more or less a supergroup. We get melodic hard rock in the top league and a very strong album. This is something that every fan of the genre should enjoy. No doubt at all about that!
"Live And Learn" was the first BRAZEN ABBOT album, released originally in Japan and other Asian countries in 1995. Here they combines razor-sharp riffs and symphonic arrangements with soaring vocal performances from Glenn Hughes, Göran Edman and Thomas Vikström, as well as really good performances from the 3 EUROPE members mentioned above. It's mainly melodic hard rock here too and a very strong material. But once in a while there's suddenly something different, something more funky or however I should describe it ("Clean Up Man" and "Big Time Blues"). And that doesn't really fit in. But mainly a very good album anyway, and absolutely worth checking out.
ffm.bio/guiltyassin-reissue | ffm.bio/liveandlearnreissue | brazenabbot.nostramusic.com | frontiers.it
GRAHAM BONNET BAND: Lost In Hollywood Again
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - Blu-ray, 2LP, CD/DVD, DigitalWell, this is hardly the first live album from legendary singer Graham Bonnet (ex-ALCATRAZZ, MSG, RAINBOW). It was recorded at the legendary Whiskey A Go Go in Los Angeles on August 29, 2024, and captures songs from his whole career. We get songs from his previous bands as well as solo songs, and this album can be seen as a celebration of his career and all the classic song that he have been singing on. But was it really necessary to include a useless keyboard solo and a drum solo on the album? I can understand that the old man need to rest his voice a little once in a while (according to his old ALCATRAZZ band mates he couldn't even sing more than a few songs before he had to lip sync to backing tracks, which is probably the reason why he's not singing with them anymore, but he denies it of course, and I don't think he lip sync here), but there's no good reason to include those solos on a record.
Otherwise a pretty good live album, no more no less, because I have heard much better versions of these songs.
Graham turned 78 years old on December 23, and he is still active in touring and recording. I'm impressed!
youtu.be/8ZqghhSiNAk | ffm.bio/grahambonnetband_lostinhollywoodlive | facebook.com/grahambonnetofficial | frontiers.it
Jim Peterik & WORLD STAGE: River Of Music - The Power Of Duets Volume One
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, DigitalWith this album, Jim Peterik (SURVIVOR, The IDES OF MARCH) delivers one of his most personal and inspired projects to date. It's a tribute to the spirit of collaboration, where each song becomes a shared story told through harmony, emotion, and musical chemistry. We get 10 tracks of AOR/melodic rock, and Jim share vocals with everyone from his son, Colin, to people like Kevin Cronin (REO SPEEDWAGON), Jason Cheff (ex-CHICAGO), Toby Hitchcock (PRIDE OF LIONS), Cathy Richardson (JEFFERSON STARSHIP) etc. And among the musicians are drummers Denny Fongheiser and Ed Breckenfeld, bassists Tony Franklin and Bob Lizik, guitarists Phil X and Mike Aquino, and keyboardists Kim Bullard and Kim Peterik.
This is very melodic of course, but it's very well done, so I would think that fans of the classic records in this genre will like this very much. This might not work so good if you have a shitty day (not for me anyway), as there's a little too many slow songs here. But if you're in the right mood, you will find out that there's plenty of strong feel good songs here.
..and yes, there will soon be a volume 2 they say.
ffm.bio/riverofmusicpreorder | instagram.com/jimpeterikrocks | frontiers.it
Jimi Jamison: 1998 Live Hits
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - 2LP, CD, Digital"1998 Live Hits" catches vocalist Jimi Jamison live in his post-SURVIVOR career. The album was recorded over 3 nights in Little Rock, AR / Nashville, TN / and Bettendorf, IA, USA. He revisits songs from his time with SURVIVOR, along with deep cuts, original solo work, and some covers. His band featured longtime collaborators Jeff Adams (bass, vocals) and Hal Butler (keyboards, vocals), as well as guitarist Chris Adamson, drummer Pete Mendillo, and Memphis-based producer and guitarist Wes Henley (who also supervised these live album recordings).
Well, if you're a fan of melodic rock, then you should already be familiar with this man. And then you already know that this is worth checking out. But if you have not discovered him yet, then this is a perfect record to begin with, because this is really good stuff. But o.k., a cover of "Riders On The Storm" by The DOORS, that last for 10 and a half minutes, wasn't so funny when he have so many good songs from his own career. It's not a bad song, I like The DOORS, but it last for too long and doesn't really fit in here (a odd choice though).
ffm.bio/jimijamison1988livehitsalbum | frontiers.it
Rob Moratti: Sovereign
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, DigitalThis is the 6th studio album from vocalist Rob Moratti (ex-MORATTI, FINAL FRONTIER, SAGA). He has a vide range and mix elements from both melodic rock and progressive rock. There's harmonies and memorable choruses among the ingredients, and among the musicians here we can find names like Joel Hoekstra (WHITESNAKE, ex-NIGHT RANGER) on lead guitar, Tony Franklin (ex-The FIRM, BLUE MURDER) on bass, Felix Borg on drums (and co-writing), Fredrik Bergh on keys (and co-writing) and Pete Alpenborg (who also contributes rhythm guitar and keyboards) - so it's almost a all-star lineup that we get. And these men are doing a really good job, because this sound more or less like a classic album already. So it's pretty obvious that you have to check this out of course, and there's really not much else to say about that.
ffm.bio/sovereign | robmoratti.net | frontiers.it
HOT APOLLO: Against The Odds Beacuse We're Gods
SelfMadeRecords on Dec. 26 - CD, LP, DigitalWell, is this really so hot?
HOT APOLLO is a punk rock band from Toronto, Canada, where they have been a part of the club scene for over a decade already. They try to sell this as an explosive party album, but I don't know. The singer has a slightly unique style, which makes this band sound a bit special. And these may not be the strongest songs they have to offer, so I would not call this a party album. They have some songs that are pretty good though, so this is not a totally hopeless album. It could have been a little stronger with some more of those good songs though.
This band play a pretty kind punk rock that we just as well could call just rock. There's no attack and anger, but mainly catchy rock.
facebook.com/HotApollo | selfmaderecordsllc-business.com/home
Max Georgiev: Believe In You
Max Georgiev - Digital SingleFormer FALLING IN REVERSE guitarist Max Georgiev has released a new music video and EP of original songs. The EP was recorded in Nashville at Sienna Studios with producer Kile Odell (PAPA ROACH, NOTHING MORE) and singer Jaycee Clark. This is a single from that EP.
Max played lead guitar for FALLING IN REVERSE from 2018 until 2024. Prior to that he played with ESCAPE THE FATE, NEW YEARS DAY, and GEMINI SYNDROME.
This sounds modern. Melodic female vocals is mixed with heavy guitars and a melodic chorus. Pretty o.k. for being modern, but I don't think I could listen to more than 1 song of this. Not much else to say for me..
youtube.com/watch?v=WR7ujZRJLYU | facebook.com/maxgeorgiev2
INTERNAL DECAY: A Forgotten Dream (reissue)
Vic Records - CD, LPIn January 1993, Swedish death metallers INTERNAL DECAY entered the legendary Sunlight Studios in Stockholm to record this album, which has now been re-released by Vic Records on both CD and vinyl.
This band might not be among the well-known names, but they can be described as Swedish death metal with a melodic touch. They were not the fastest or the heaviest band, and seemed to have their own little sound, where most of the song goes in a mid-tempo or just above. I sometimes get a feeling that they were a little more artistic/ambitious than most other bands at the time. And the fact that it almost never goes really fast makes this album less fun to listen to. The only exception from that rule is "Ex Oblivione", which actually is a faster track (for a while at least).
These 9 tracks are not bad though, but not something extra good either, so I don't really know what else I should say about this.
vicrecords.com
WINGS OF DESTINY: Masters Of War
King2Music - AlbumPower metal band WINGS OF DESTINY have members from USA and Costa Rica. They has already released 6 albums (if I get it right), and for this 7th album they have joined forces with David Shankle (ex- MANOWAR) and Mike Lepond (SYMPHONY X) as their new guitar and bass players and official members of the band.
Well, these guys have nothing to worry about, and can be proud that they have managed to create a strong album that sounds just as good as many other records in this genre. It's in other words a very high quality in this band's material, and it sounds professional as well. So if that sounds like something that you would want to hear, then you just have to check out this album. Not one single weak moment.
king2music.com
TWIN PIGS: The Future Is Now
Luftslott Records - Digital Single
Swedish punk rock/hardcore band TWIN PIGS are finally back again with some new music, and this is the second single (I didn't get the first one) in a short time. Both songs are also available on a very limted cassette. With 3 albums they have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the Swedish rock scene. I'm not really sure when their last album was released, but it feels like it was a few years ago now.
Well, in this song they are not happy about the future, they think it sucks. All you want is some dignity, but instead you have to take out loans to afford food. Add all conflicts around the world, and the future doesn't look that bright at all. The sound of this new song is more positive though. They continue with their own kind of alternative punk rock/hardcore, which includes both old and modern influences. It's a good song, so it's worth checking out.
facebook.com/twinpigspunk
SUN EMPRESS: Still Life
Sun Empress - Digital EPSUN EMPRESS is best described as a heavy force.
This Swedish duo hailing from Gothenburg rock city, and this is their first release, where we get 4 tracks that are between 4:42 to 8:12 minutes. Their music moves in the same slow and suggestive world as KONGH and YOB, which means pitch-black explosiveness paired with expressive vocals and psychedelic influences. But they are also a little progressive, and while the music is heavy, I would say that the vocals is melodic (clean at least, no growl here).
This sounds very good and promising, so if you like it heavy, then I suggest that you give these guys a try.
linktr.ee/sunempressband
ROZARIO: Fire And Ice
Pride & Joy Music - Digital SingleROZARIO is a melodic heavy metal band from Norway, and this is the first single from the sophomore album "Northern Crusaders", which will arrive on February 20, 2026.
This group carry the flag for classic, melodic heavy metal into a new era you could say. And this song is a powerful and energetic anthem with a big chorus to scream along to. It kicks ass and is made for your next party. Very promising for the upcoming album. You have to check this out!
youtu.be/YPSG5zCiWo4 | facebook.com/rozarioband
Peter Goalby: Don't Think This Is Over
Explore Rights Management - CD, DigitalPeter Goalby was once upon a time the lead singer of bands like URIAH HEEP, TRAPEZE and FABLE, but has now retired from the music industry after an illustrious career. So why a new album then you might ask? Well, Peter had been living with the knowledge he had recorded a solo album just after leaving URIAH HEEP, but it was only when a poorly labelled DAT was spotted, at a storage facility over 30 years later, that the lost album was found. The album was finished when his old URIAH HEEP bandmates Mick Box (guitar) and John Sinclair (keys) added the final overdubs to the tracks in 2025.
Now you should not expect to hear some good old hard rock here, because this is a totally different story. It sounds more like rock, with a typical 80s sound and production. Most songs are catchy and melodic, and this is not so bad at all. The album have potential, but it's hard to tell if this would have been any bigger hit if it would have been released in the 80s. Now it will probably not be anyway. But the underground rockers that get the chance to actually hear it will probably have a good time. So if you're into 80s rock or melodic rock, then give this a try.
geni.us/DontThinkCD | geni.us/PGspotify
NO MURDER NO MOUSTASCHE: A Demon In The Dark
No Murder No Moustache - Digital SingleNO MURDER NO MOUSTASCHE (aka Owen Crawford) is a British folk punk rock band, or Celtic punk band as it's also called. This song is taken from the forthcoming new album, "As Everything Else Decays", which arrives on February 27, 2026. It sounds very Celtic of course, and will remind you of bands like DROPKICK MURPHYS and FLOGGING MOLLY for example. It's uptempo and energetic just as it should be. So if that sounds like something that you would like, then you should really check this out, because it's not bad at all.
youtube.com/watch?v=s_t6yCi2Ubo | linktr.ee/nomurnomo
NECROPHESY: The Shroud Of Death Unveiled
Non Serviam Records - Digital SingleSwedish death metal act NECROPHESY features members of LORD BELIAL, SETHERIAL, DECAMERON and DISSECTION. This is their debut single, which serves as a first glimpse into their upcoming EP, scheduled for early 2026. The track combines hellish vocals with a perfect match of raw aggression and technical precision. It's heavy yet energetic somehow, and not that bad at all. I guess that this can be of interest for fans of good old death metal.
non-serviam-records.bandcamp.com/track/the.... | facebook.com/necrophesyofficial | non-serviam-records.com
NECKBREAKER: Mental Void
Witches Brew - CD, DigitalIt seems like this Chilean thrash band was formed back in 2011 already. After some lineup changes and rebirths, they finally had a stable lineup in 2016 and released a string of demos, as well as a EP in 2017. Now it's time for their full-length debut, and they attack with everything that they got. They blend the classic Bay Area sound with the unrelenting aggression of German and British thrash, which gives us a sound that is both traditional and modern at the same time, but most of all raw and intense in the old school. This is in other words thrash metal as it should be.
NECKBREAKER has succeeded to make a really good album, and every fan of this genre should check it out at once.
witchesbrewthrashes.bandcamp.com/album/.... | facebook.com/NeckbreakerChile
LUPONERO: Dad Bod Rok God (Merry Jinglebelly Version)
Icons Creating Evil Art - Digital SingleFinnish hard rock trio LUPONERO gives us a reworked version of their song "Dad Bod Rok God", which seems to have become a underground hit in the digital world. The new "Merry Jinglebelly Version" transforms the band's tongue-in-cheek dad-rock anthem into a sleigh-riding, bell-ringing, riff-stuffed celebration of holiday excess. It sounds like electro-rock to me, in lack of a better description. It's catchy and uptempo, not bad at all. Perfect if you're looking for alternative Christmas songs that rocks.
youtu.be/eFt8ZnE9RPw?si=9zBwpveK4flV4LvH | instagram.com/luponeromusic_official | icea.se
TROLD: Til Gilde Under Ulven (Live At Copenhell '25)
Mighty Music on Dec. 19 - 2LP, CD, DigitalOn a sunny afternoon last summer, Danish folk metallers TROLD entered the stage at the Copenhell festival in Copenhagen, Denmark with an explosion of fire and confetti infront of thousands of people. The whole thing was recorded, and will now be released as a live album.
This can be seen as a big tribute to the metal community, and it sounds like they had a fantastic party that day. It also sounds like the energy was really high, so it was probably very sweaty as well.
TROLD deliver a more harsh and powerful kind of folk metal that I think could be perfect to dance and shake loose to. They have many good songs, and this album is great.
For some reason the CD and LP are just available via the band's own webshop.
bfan.link/trld-tilgld | troldband.com
DEAD SUN: This Life Is A Grave
Emanzipation Productions on Dec. 19 - CD, DigitalThis is yet another band with the Swedish metal legend Rogga Johansson (PAGANIZER, RIBSPREADER, REVOLTING etc etc) in the lineup. This time he is backed by drummer Thomas Ohlsson, so Rogga is doing the rest (guitar, bass, vocals). The band have been around since 1996, but have not always been active. A couple of demos and albums has been released through the years.
DEAD SUN play melodic death metal that reminds me a little of AMON AMARTH, even if it's not exactly the same thing. The music is dark, melodic, and riff-driven, as well as heavy and melancholic. It sounds really good, so you should absolutely give this a try.
emanzipation.dk | facebook.com/DeadSun666
FUNERAL VOMIT: Upheaval Of Necromancy
Xtreem Music on Dec. 19 - CD, LP, Cassette, DigitalColombian death metallers FUNERAL VOMIT formed during the global pandemic in 2020. They joined Xtreem Music in 2023 for the release of their debut full-length album, "Monumental Putrescence", which was followed in 2024 by an expanded reissue of their 2022 self titled EP. And now it's time for the second full-length, "Upheaval Of Necromancy".
I don't really know if this is supposed to sound like an old demo tape from the early 90s, but to me it does. But that's just cool. And even though it's intense old school death metal that they play, they have succeeded to add their own twist to the music with deep growl. This almost sounds like it would have come up straight from a grave to give you a horrible nightmare.
This is said to fit fans of bands like AUTOPSY, GRAVE, MORTICIAN and GRAVE DESECRATOR.
facebook.com/funeral.vomit | xtreemmusic.com
OLYMP: Rising
Metalizer Records on Dec. 19 - CD, LP, DigitalOLYMP are not doing anything unique, but play like so many other bands heavy metal in the 80s tradition. The band features 4 guys from Augsburg, Germany, who started this band in 2018. They released a self-titled EP in 2019, which was followed by a self-titled full-length album in 2023, and now they return with their second full-length, "Rising".
Although their sound is very familiar, they show us all that it doesn't always have to be so unique, and that the good old stuff always works. So why complicate things? This is in other words a very good album that's full of highlights.
metalizer-records.de | olymp-band.com
The LOSTS: Venom Within
Inverse Records on Dec. 19 - CD, DigitalThe LOSTS might sound like the name of an old punk rock band from the late 70s, but this is a heavy metal band from France. They play a dark and melodic kind of heavy metal, so this is not another band in the classic tradition. They have been around since 2010, and this is their third album.
The music is said to reflect the taste of each member, which gives us elements from many various sub-genres, like hard rock, dark rock, black metal, doom metal, thrash metal, and even oriental and rock. The band cites MEGADETH as well as ARCTURUS, MERCYFUL FATE, JINJER, THERION or even IMMORTAL as major influences.
To me this sounds progressive somehow, and they seems to blend both classic and modern elements to something of their own. Some tracks are just o.k., while a few are a little better. Could be worth a try for those better songs.
facebook.com/TheLostsBand | inverse.fi
MUCK AND THE MIRES: Tripping Out On Love
Rogue Records - 7" Single, Digital SingleBoston's MUCK AND THE MIRES have delivered their signature blend of British Invasion meets high-energy punk to audiences around the world since the early 2000s. They has released half a dozen singles and 7 full-length albums through the years.
The first track, "Tripping Out On Love", is a uptempo garage punk rocker in the good old tradition. In other words just like it should be, and something that you really should check out.
The b-side, "Let's Kiss And Make Up Tonight", is slower, and sounds more like a pop/rock song in the classic garage rock tradition. Also a good song, but not as good as the a-side, which is the winner here.
linktr.ee/disquesrogue
The VIOLET MINDFIELD: From The Gutter With Love
Rogue Records - 7" EP, Digital EPThe VIOLET MINDFIELD are a 5-piece rock band hailing from the Inland Empire region of Southern California. Over the course of a decade, they have developed a sound reflective of their Southern California roots, as well as their love of all things 1960s. Their self-titled debut album was released in 2014, and they have since then released some more albums, as well as singles and EPs, through several different labels.
Their sound is influenced by classic English freakbeat, through R&B, and even gospel. But I would say that it mainly sounds like 60s garage rock, with all the ingredients that you can expect to hear. It's catchy, melodic and energetic.
We get 4 pretty short songs - 1:42-2:38 minutes - and they all sounds very good. In other words definitely worth checking out if you like garage rock from the 60s.
linktr.ee/disquesrogue
DECIMATOR: Downfallen
Wormholedeath Records - MCD, DigitalThis EP is said to mark a fierce new chapter for this Sydney-based heavy/thrash band, channeling their trademark blend of old school aggression and sharp modern intensity. 3 songs is what we get here, and they begin with "Hexenkrieg", which is 7 minutes long. The other 2, the title track and "Teuer de Paysans", are 4 and 5:43 minutes. These guys play in the higher league, which means that they are pretty skilled musicians. It's not advanced though. They definitely have their own sound anyway, and it sounds good to me.
This is probably not the first band called DECIMATOR, but this band formed in early 2021, and has undergone a few lineup changes since then, so there's actually just 1 original member left. The band is already writing new material for 2026.
facebook.com/DecimatorBandAustralia | wormholedeath.com
hideclose: Nocte Mutamur
Wormholedeath Records - Digital EPhideclose is the creation of Lenn Vane, a composer and storyteller based in Berlin, Germany. This band blend gothic metal, doom, and alternative influences. We get 5 tracks and a story about Professor Dario Valperga in Victorian London in 1889. It explores the tension between reason and darkness, faith and decay.
They label this as gothic metal, but I think I prefer to call this gothic rock instead, because there's not much metal according to me. It's a really good debut EP anyway, no doubt about that. All the right ingredients for a successful record are included, and you should really give this a try.
youtu.be/Qj1LGDwb1KE?si=qZla6o7yNxVtGj3L | hideclose.bandcamp.com/album/nocte-mutamur | wormholedeath.com
VOICES OF EXTREME: Stoned Babies
BraveWords Records - Digital SingleWell, this voice is hardly extreme. I would rather say that this is melodic hard rock, but in a modern way. "Stoned Babies" is the first single from an upcoming album, titled "Faith In Action", to be released in 2026.
The band originally launched in 2004, but I don't know what happened back then. Now they are back again anyway with a new lineup, featuring vocalist Don Chaffin (RED LAMB, RAM JAM, former co-managed by Nicko McBrain of IRON MAIDEN), Paul Ranieri on bass, and Rod Morgenstein (DIXIE DREGS, WINGER) on drums.
This is a good song. I have already said that it's melodic, but it's also dark and heavy somehow, or maybe emotional is a better word? Well, it's worth a try if you're into melodic rock and hard rock anyway.
youtu.be/ymIO7XC6pQ8?si=kvERynkPvlp3K3k7 | facebook.com/VOICESOFEXTREME | bravewordsrecords.com
YEAH, SICK!: Your Herbs And Spices Won't Save You Now
Yeah, Sick! - Digital EPThis band hailing from Victoria, Australia, and released their first record in 2022. Their music is described as a chaotic mix of hardcore punk energy and groove metal swagger, as well as humour. We get brutal riffs and unpredictable turns. But beneath the chaos, there's more to dicover. This EP also marks the first release with Dazz Powell on bass, whose playful presence and love for the bizarre side of music have added a new spark to the band's chemistry. This is raw and energetic, but also something different, so I would almost like to call it progressive. And I don't think I can give you any better description than that.
facebook.com/people/Yeah-Sick/1000641....
SHADOWBORN: Through The Hourglass
Shadowborn on Dec. 18 - Digital EPSHADOWBORN formed in 2024 and comes from Australia. This is their debut EP. They blend speed-metal precision, thrash-fuelled aggression, and vivid storytelling "into a sound that is both classic in spirit and cutting-edge in execution". The band aim to bring something fresh to the metal scene, where speed, melody and power are the main ingredients.
The members have experience from other bands, so they are not new in the Australian metal scene. Which you really can hear when you listen to these 4 heavy metal tracks. This is not bad at all, but actually pretty good. They seems to have 1 foot in the old school and 1 in the new, but in the end they succeed to create a timeless sound.
facebook.com/people/Shadowborn/61572999....
Edan H: Give It Up (Never Gonna)
Edan H - Digital SingleThis sounds familiar somehow, like an anthem from the 80s that you remember all your life. Yes, this is really good! It's built for both stadiums and driving - A tribute to the 80s arena rock without any excuses. You will probably open all windows and raise the volume while singing along to this anthem. So yes, this is a must to check out for every fan of melodic hard rock from the 80s.
Edan Hoy is a Melbourne-based guitarist, bassist and songwriter. He has been a part of the local rock scene for some years, and played with multiple bands through the years. In 2018 he launched his solo project BACK TO EDEN, which released 1 EP. Now he's back as Edan H.
youtu.be/tLFvjYyhIl8?si=hvDut7da3RHQutUC | edanhmusic.com
BLACK DIAMONDS: Christmas Time
Metalapolis Records - Digital SingleSwiss hard rockers BLACK DIAMONDS are ringing in the holidays with a brand-new song, which is energetic and hook-driven like an anthem from the 80s. Just the kind of uplifting stuff that you need this season. Because we already have enough of all those sugar sweet ballads without any balls, so let's just rock instead.
This band succeed to make a melodic hard rock song that makes you feel good. It doesn't really sound like a typical Christmas song, but that's probably just good. This is worth checking out anyway.
blackdiamonds.spread.link/christmas-time | blackdiamondsrock.com | metalapolis.eu
HOUSE BY THE CEMETARY: Disturbing The Cenotaph
Pulverised Records on Dec. 12 - CD, LP, DigitalThis death metal "supergroup" is led by former MONSTROSITY and VILE frontman and current artwork artist Mike Hrubovcak and Rogga Johansson from PAGANIZER and RIBSPREADER. The band is completed by former The PROJECT HATE drummer Thomas Ohlsson, and this is their third full-length.
The band originally picked up their moniker as an homage to the 1981 cult horror flick of the same name as the group. So it shouldn't come as a surprise that they have once again payed tribute to director Lucio Fulci (1927-1996) in 1 of the tracks, while other songs here were inspired by other famous horror classics, like "Night Of The Living Dead" and "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre". Some are totally fictional though.
You won't get any long adventures here, as all these songs are around 3-4 minutes. But that's enough. Otherwise it's nothing new and modern, but just good old death metal the classic way. Nothing is extra good, nothing is extra bad - Simply a good album and that's it.
pulverised.net
BYGONE: Bygone
Svart Records on Dec. 12 - CD, LP, DigitalBYGONE is a Boston-based hard rock/heavy metal band, and this is their debut album. The members have experience from other bands, like MAGIC CIRCLE, BLAZON RITE, CONCILIUM, WITCHTRIAL, and MISSIONARY WORK.
What they are doing here is something that sounds very old school, and a little like legends such as URIAH HEEP and DEEP PURPLE. So yes, there's organ and it's a little progressive. But they add their own touch of course, which makes them sound more underground than those bands once did.
These 7 tracks are really good, so they have created a great album, and you should really check it out.
svartrecords.com | bygonerocknroll.bandcamp.com
MOONLIT MASQUERADE: Wreckage
Limb Music on Dec. 12 - MCD, DigitalThis is the debut EP from this new power metal project, which is led by FireWölfe and REIGN OF GLORY guitarist/songwriter Nick Layton. The band also features SAVATAGE and CIRCLE II CIRCLE vocalist Zak Stevens on vocals. Among the other musicians on this EP are drummer Jeff Plate (SAVATAGE, METAL CHURCH) and bassist Barry Sparks (MSG, DOKKEN), as well as Christian Liljegren (NARNIA) on vocals. A full-length album will be released in May 2026, but while we wait for that we get these 3 tracks as a first taste.
This is something for fans of melodic metal like SAVATAGE, Yngwie Malmsteen, NARNIA etc. But I guess that melodic power metal is a pretty good description too. It sounds good and professional anyway, and these songs will definitely make you thirsty for more. But why they included a instrumental song when there's just 3 tracks is a mystery to me? They could have saved that track for the album instead and included 1 more song with vocals instead. But that's all I can complain about here.
limb-music.com
Danny Peyronel: It Happens When You Look The Other Way
DPX2 Recordings - CD, DigitalDanny Peyronel is a singer, songwriter and keyboardist. He has been a member of bands like HEAVY METAL KIDS, UFO and TARZEN, but has also written songs for Meat Loaf, David Gilmour, Sade and many more. In the 90s he worked with Desmond Child, the man behind hits with BON JOVI, AEROSMITH, Alice Cooper etc.
His new album was recorded in Barcelona, Spain together with the help of David Pereira-Oleart (LIPSTICK) on guitar. We can also hear Martin Buszano on guitar, Lakis Economou (MALCOM BRUCE BAND) on bass, and Javi Rojano Reina (AMARO) on drums. It's a rock album with many different faces you could say, sometimes more bluesy, sometimes classic rock, and so on. Mainly old school and not so modern. Energetic uptempo songs goes hand in hand with a few more emotional moments. But if we should put this in 1 genre, then I guess it would be classic rock then.
He have many good songs here, so this is worth a try.
youtube.com/watch?v=FsQFbaoTSa4 | dannypeyronel.com
DEATH LENS: Power
Epitaph Records - Digital SingleOh, this sounds good. Some kind of catchy and melodic uptempo punk rock with a modern twist.
DEATH LENS is a alternative punk band from Los Angeles, formed in 2012. This new single will be featured in the latest edition of the Skate video game series from EA.
Well, as it's a good song, all fans of catchy and melodic punk rock should check this out, and that's all I have to say.
youtu.be/APC4zAsYvcs | epitaph.com
CORNERS OF SANCTUARY: What If It Was Christmas Everyday?
SODEH Records - Digital SingleA Christmas single from U.S. heavy metal band CORNERS OF SANCTUARY has become a tradition now. And it's not any covers of songs that a thousand others has recorded already, but original songs. And to me, that makes it more interesting.
This year they gives us a energetic party anthem, which is exactly what we need. And in the bag are hard-hitting riffs, driving rhythms, and the band's signature 80s-infused edge. Yes, this is among the better songs that they have done through the years, so you check this out of course.
CORNERS OF SANCTUARY started the tradition of releasing Christmas songs in 2012, so there have been a few since then. It started just for fun, but has grown into something fans now eagerly anticipate.
youtu.be/jmyjVdVvIDA?si=-yxtSpEf3bky3iQh | facebook.com/CornersofSanctuary
Lillmåns: Remains
Stormbound Records - CD, DigitalAfter bringing early recordings from TWILIGHT MOON and DEGENERATE back to life, Finnish metal icon Mathias Lillmåns - most well-known as the vocalist of FINNTROLL as well as ...AND OCEANS - now unveils the central monument of his archive project: the most expansive collection of recovered material to date. With "Remains" he presents the first full-length retrospective of his early, unreleased and long-forgotten recordings - a 17-track anthology spanning material from the bands TWILIGHT MOON, REMAINS, DEGENERATE, CHTHONIAN, VERE and OBSERVANT.
We get a collection with 3 decades of material, and I would say that most of the material here is some kind of death metal, sometimes melodic death metal, sometimes with elements of black metal. It's mainly raw and aggressive, but most of it sounds pretty good. But 17 tracks is much. An interesting journey though.
youtu.be/0WD_OoGLAfE | stormboundrecords.myshopify.com | ffm.to/eonwjyk | facebook.com/lillmans
TREAT: The Wild Card
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - 2LP, CD, DigitalThis is the 10th studio album from Swedish melodic hard rock veterans TREAT. Somebody should have told the old men that it's enough with 8-10 tracks. Now we get 13 tracks, and that's a few too many according to me. But with that said, most of the songs are absolutely not bad, so this album is still worth checking out for every fan of good old melodic hard rock.
TREAT formed in the early 1980s. After many succeesful years, lineup changes and industry shifts, they went on hiatus in the early 1990s. But in 2006 they were back again. And now in 2025 they deliver a diverse album full of great songs, where the roots are mainly in the 80s. It's catchy and melodic.
ffm.bio/thewildcardalbum | facebook.com/treatofficial | frontiers.it
STRYPER: The Greatest Gift Of All
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - LP, CD, DigitalI have heard a few Christmas albums through the years, and the fact that STRYPER have not done this before is a little strange (they released a Christmas single in 1985 though). But better late than never as some positive fart said.
What we get is 5 original songs and 5 traditional songs. The first time I heard this I was not so impressed, it just went in and out more or less. But it has grown a little since then, and now I think it's a good hard rock album. They are not really doing anything unique and unusual here, so it's a pretty safe STRYPER album. The only song that I'm not such a big friend of is "Little Drummer Boy" (have never really understood that song).
STRYPER have been around for 4 decades now, and they are hardly done yet. Their latest studio albums have been really good.
ffm.bio/thegreatestgiftofallalbum | linktr.ee/Stryper | frontiers.it
LYNCH MOB: Dancing With The Devil
Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, LP, DigitalAmerican hard rockers LYNCH MOB (led by guitarist George Lynch from DOKKEN) has released their 9th and final album. And this is a really strong farewell I must say.
This album follows the succees of the previous album, "Babylon" (2023), and showcases elements of classic LYNCH MOB with a modern edge, fusing hard rock, blues, and soulful grooves with an unmistakable passion and energy. It sounds like they are really ending their journey at the top of their career, because there's lots of great songs on this album. So this is a hard rock album that you really should check out. And I think that both old and young hard rockers could like this.
As a special bonus for European fans, this edition of the album includes the exclusive track "Somewhere", not available on the U.S. version - a parting gift to a fanbase that has supported the band throughout their journey.
ffm.bio/lynchmob_dancingwiththedevil | facebook.com/LynchMobBand | frontiers.it
ATTENTAT and BLÄCK at Grevens
Concert at Grevens Bar & Casino in Borås, Sweden on December 5, 2025Punk night at the small bar Grevens was unexpected, but it worked very good. But isn't there any other band than BLÄCK that can be support act for a change? Not that they are bad, but same band every time it's a punk gig is not so funny. This was the 4th time in 2 years that I have seen them as the first band. They was as usual good and most of their songs are really good. It's mainly melodic punk rock that they play, but once in a while they burn off a hardcore/punk song as well.
You could expect that it would be sold out when a veteran band like ATTENTAT comes to town, but I don't think it was sold out. I think there can't get in more than 100-150 people at Grevens, so where were all the punks this night? Pretty much people anyway though.
ATTENTAT first existed in the late 70s/early 80s. I'm not really sure when they reunited, but it was during the 2000s anyway, and there have been a few lineup changes through the years. This was the first time that I saw them with the latest lineup. It was tight and very good, many old favorite songs as well as some new songs that I had not heard before. They are still a very good live band and absolutely worth seeing and hearing.
ULCERATE FESTER: Unceasing Life, Contradictio Interminus
Vic Records - CDULCERATE FESTER was another one of the early Dutch death metal bands. They formed in 1989, and released 2 demos, and 2 full-length albums.
This compilation includes the 2 demos, which was recorded in 1990 and 1991. But we also get 2 bonus tracks, recorded in 1991 and 1994.
The members also played in bands like ABRUPT DEMISE, ANARCHOS, ETERNAL SOLSTICE, BURNING HATRED, ADETAR, JAGANNATH, and ETHERIAL WINDS.
Well, this was a brutal band, but they also had many heavy parts and heavy songs. Some songs are 6-9 minutes long, while others are 3-5 minutes. The 8 minutes long "Weapons For A Chemical Future" and the 9 minutes long "Malicious Desire" feels more like a long journey that just goes in and out, so that's not such funny songs to listen to. And there's unfortunately some more of that boring stuff here. But there's at least a few tracks here that are o.k., so it's not totally hopeless. There's much more interesting bands than this though. No doubt about that anyway.
vicrecords.com
MALIGNANT: Segruocs Lacitsaiselcce
Vic Records - CDThis is a black/death metal band from the south of The Netherlands, which formed in 1989. On this compilation we get their second demo, 2 official rehearsal demos, and 1 special ASPHYX related track (all members of the classic lineup play or have played with ASPHYX) - A total of 14 tracks.
Well, what can I say about this then? It's fast and raw, very old school (for obvious reasons) and brutal vocals. They might not have anything special, and many of the songs last for over 6 minutes, but they are pretty o.k. at least. On the other hand, if you're looking for obscure underground metal from the past, then this should be of interest no matter what I say.
vicrecords.com
ADETAR: Sinister Resurrection Of The Morbid
Vic Records - CDADETAR was an obscure death metal band from Enschede, The Netherlands. They released 2 demos in 1990 and 1991 before the band ceased to exist. And those 2 demos is what we get on this compilation CD, but also 6 live tracks recorded 1990-1992 as a bonus, as well as 2 previously unreleased tracks.
This should be candy for fans of old school European death metal, because they sound like many other bands did back then. So this is in other words pretty good stuff, but I don't know what else I should say about it.
The members also played in bands like ULCERATE FESTER, JAGANNATH, DEAD HEAD and GOD DETHRONED in the early 90s. Some of them can be found in PUTREFIED CORPSE nowadays.
vicrecords.com
REACH: Hell On Earth
Icons Creating Evil Art - Digital Single"Hell On Earth" is the first taste of an upcoming new album, which I don't know much about yet.
REACH is a band from Sweden who play some kind of alternative hard rock. They mix heavy riffs with pop vocals, and it sounds very modern. Yet it's somehow listenable and not such a bad song, but I would not go as far as calling this an anthem. Worth checking out anyway.
And now we are there again.. I just don't know what else I should say. So let the music do the talking.
found.ee/hellonearth | facebook.com/reachofficialsweden | icea.se
ROYAL HUNT: Behind The Curtain
Royal Hunt - CD, DigitalDanish progressive/power metal veterans ROYAL HUNT return with something that they call a EP. But fact is that there's as much as 6 tracks here, which are approximately 5-7 minutes long, so I would prefer to call this an album as it actually last for about 36 minutes.
Anyway.. This release was made possible by the overwhelming support of fans during their recent crowdfunding campaign. And what we get is a single verison of "Ride Into The Sunset", 2 live tracks from 2023, 2 acoustic versions, and a remixed and remastered version of "Fistful Of Misery" as a bonus track.
ROYAL HUNT formed in 1989, and they blend progressive and symphonic metal with power metal. They have a sound that's both classic and modern, and it actually sounds more like melodic metal to me than power metal. These tracks are damn good stuff anyway, so you just have to check this out.
youtu.be/6Tn4ftJGw3I | royalhunt.com
SYMPHONITY: Beyond Olympus
Limb Music on Dec. 5 - CD, DigitalEpic power metal band SYMPHONITY deliver what they call a EP, with 1 new song and 5 live tracks recorded at Gagarin 205 in Athens, Greece in April 2025. Now some of these songs are 6 to 7 and a half minutes long, so we end up at a playing time of 37:40 minutes, and that's a full-length and not a EP. It's not the number of songs that matters, but the playing time. And this is not the first band who deliver something as a EP when it's long enough to be a EP, which I find a little strange.
Anyway, this band blend their epic power metal with symphonic and progressive elements, which makes it sound very professional and ambitious. On top of that they have really strong songs, that I think every fan of this genre could like a lot. So this is in other words definitely worth checking out.
This EP will be exclusively available as cardboardsleeve CD in the label's online shop and digital. But you can also buy it at the band's shows.
limb-music.com
DEATH OBVIOUS: Death Obvious
Transcending Obscurity Records on Dec. 5 - CD, DigitalWhat a noise terror there in the beginning. After that it's not much better. Sometimes it's very heavy, and sometimes it goes very fast, and sometimes it's more or less chaotic noise. It's raw and unpolished. They mix black and death metal with some doom metal to get their sound. And it's hardly a pleasure to listen to. But that's hardly what it's supposed to be either I suppose.
This Finnish duo might not be so easy to listen to for most of us, but if you're used to extreme and brutal metal, then you might hear something that I can't hear, and maybe you will like it.
deathobvious-label.bandcamp.com/album/self-titled | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com
SEPULCHRAL: Beneath The Shroud
Soulseller Records on Dec. 5 - CD, LP, DigitalThis is the second album from these Spanish death metallers. It sounds old school and just like it should, so there's nothing to complain about when it comes to this record. It's in other words a damn good album that they have made, and you should really check it out. If you don't start banging your head to this, then there must be something wrong with you.
What else I should say is a big mystery though, so I guess you have to let the music do the talking instead.
soulsellerrecords.com | facebook.com/sepulchraldeathmetal
BLOOD RED THRONE: Siltskin
Soulseller Records on Dec. 5 - CD, LP, DigitalNorwegian death metallers BLOOD RED THRONE have been around for almost 3 decades now, and this is their 12th album. It's said to be heavier, faster, more melodic and powerful than ever before, but still has an overall distinct BRT sound to it.
To me it sounds just like it should, which means old school. These 9 tracks are all very well done, and something that every fan of old school death metal should check out.
What else I should say is a mystery though. But it's not like they are doing anything unique either, so what else is there to say anyway?
soulsellerrecords.com | facebook.com/BloodRedThroneOfficial
WISHING WELL: Marching In The Dark
Inverse Records - Digital SingleThese Finnish hard rockers deliver a uptempo rocker that can easily make you happy and want to party. It's a damn good song, and it's not impossible that you want to sing along when the chorus comes. So you should absolutely check it out. And what else do you need too know?
This song also features piano and accordian as an extra spice, and it's taken from their upcoming fifth album, which will be released in March 2026. Now that's something to look forward to.
youtu.be/2u44cgtZbp8 | facebook.com/wishingwell2016 | inverse.fi
NOW OR NEVER: The Legacy
Metalapolis Records on Dec. 5 - CD, LP, DigitalNOW OR NEVER was founded in 2012 by former PRETTY MAIDS members Ricky Marx (guitar) and Kenn Jackson (bass) as well as SULTAN drummer Ranzo. They has since then released 3 albums between 2013-2020, and now they return with not just a new album, but also a new lineup. The new members are Danish singer Peer Johansson (FATE, PENTAKILL, The GRANDMASTER) and French bassist Guillaume Surroca.
What we get here is classic hard rock paired with more modern heavy metal. It doesn't sound too modern though, which is good. Not musically anyway, so it's more the production and the sound that's modern. Heavy riffs and intense melodies are some of the ingredients. There's some good songs here, but most of the material is unfortunately not much else than just good. And 13 tracks are still a few too many according to me, and it's not like they have any anthems here. That can easily give you a feeling that the album will never end.
metalapolis.eu | nowornever.music
MÄRVEL: Brain Drain Diaries
Leather Lake on Dec. 5 - Digital Album
Swedish power trio MÄRVEL have been around since 2002, and this is their 10th album. The thunderous riffs and anthemic choruses are there, and it's as usual catchy and melodic, as well as uptempo and energetic. As a fan you will get exactly what you want - soaring hooks, driving guitars, and an unstoppable groove. Yes, this band is really rocking and a must to check out for any fan of good energy rock.
"Brain Drain Diaries" is said to be their most personal and revealing album to date. It's about everyday struggles, but it's also a record about coping with the madness of the world.
marvel.ffm.to/braindraindiaries | marveltheband.com «November | Index | Jan. 2026»
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