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I was inspired after reading Kattelox's terrific top 50, a few forum members also encouraged me to have a go, and so it begins.
First off a huge thanks to Katt's excellent formatting of his list, I asked him if I could loosely use the same style and he graciously allowed me to steal his thunder.
I am now in my 51st year, of those I can remember being really into music since the age of 12.
I decided to limit this list to only one album per artist, that way I have to be pretty tough with the list.
At the moment I've got over 100 albums that I have to whisk in half, it won't be an easy task either.
I'll try to update this list whenever I can, but as I am finding out the hard way, putting these post together isn't as easy as it looks and is rather time consuming.
Although I am a power metal and symphonic metalhead, I love a lots of odd ball stuff, that will no doubt have some of you scratching your head and thinking WTF is he on about?
Finally please excuse any formatting, hyperlink and html errors, I am not great at doing this kind of thing.
Any help with this would be greatly appreciated.
50. Kiuas - Lustdriven
49. Emerson Lake & Powell - Emerson Lake & Powell
48. Gary Moore - Wild Frontier
47. Vanden Plas - The Colour Temple
46. Sabaton - Carolus Rex
45. I - Between Two Worlds
44. Damn The Machine - Damn The Machine
43. Virtuocity - Secret Visions
42. Catherine Wheel - Adam and Eve
41. Asia - Asia
40. The Police - Synchronicity
39. Judas Priest - Defenders Of The Faith
38. Barren Earth - Curse Of the Red River
37. Black Sabbath - Heaven and Hell
36. Badlands - Badlands
35. Fates Warning - A Pleasant Shade Of Gray
34. Carcass - Heartwork
33. Ark - Ark
32. Richie Sambora - Stranger In This Town
31. Sonata Arctica - Ecliptica
30. Katatonia - Viva Emptiness
29. Crimson Glory - Transcendence
28. Deathstars - Terminal Bliss
27. Magnum - Wings Of Heaven
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50.
KIUAS
Lustdriven
Power Metal(ish)
released 2010 on Spinefarm Records
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/d/db/Kiuasnewcd.jpg)
1. "Kiuassault" 4:37
2. "Cry Little Angel" 3:59
3. "Of Love, Lust and Human Nature" 4:05
4. "Aftermath" 5:23
5. "Lights Are Many" 4:52
6. "The Visionary" 6:34
7. "Heart and Will" 4:32
8. "The Quickening" 4:00
9. "Summer's End" 5:03
10. "Winter's Sting" 5:43
Kiuas were
Ilja Jalkanen – vocals
Mikko Salovaara – guitars, vocals
Markku Näreneva – drums
Atte Tanskanen – keyboard
Teemu Tuominen – bass guitar
Kiuas are pretty much unknown to many who listen to heavy music. I discovered them back in 2005 via their debut for Spinefarm Records (Finland). At the time I was travelling to Helsinki annually, staying with a good friend who was at the time working for the same record label.
He (Marko) was also a well known music journalist, so he would tell me about all the up and coming Finnish bands and of course supply promos for me to review.
One of these bands that stood out was Kiuas, even though I've labelled them power metal, they really are and were hard to categorise.
Though the band only made four albums before splitting, all of them are strong offering a variety of metal flavours within each album.
I chose their final offering, Lustdriven, because it's probably their most melodic and easily the most played CD I own from them.
Although it's their most accessible release, pick beneath the top layer and you'll find a proverbial onion to pick over that after many listens is very rewarding.
First off the songwriting is superb, has lots of great riffs, hooks and most of all strong vocals from Ilja Jalkanen.
Guitarist Mikko wrote most of the songs, also produced and generally looked after the band.
This album delivers a big sound, the band could get pretty heavy, but also allowed lots of space for the other instruments to breathe.
But what set's this album apart from their other's, is the sheer amount of variety in the songs and different styles.
You have epic orchestral sounds, mixed in with fast heavy guitars, then slow acoustic guitars which is nothing new, but done so well and with a hint of originality.
I could have placed this a lot higher, but I wanted this band to get some attention straight off the bat with this new top 50.
I could blabber on about this forever, but proof is in the listening, below are a couple of links to some official video's.
Of Love , Lust and Human Nature https://youtu.be/i1OO3c1j3WI (https://youtu.be/i1OO3c1j3WI)
Lustdriven album teaser part 1 https://youtu.be/ttUb5eIgPWM (https://youtu.be/ttUb5eIgPWM)
Lustdriven album teaser part 2 https://youtu.be/XdV9kBlVvhk (https://youtu.be/XdV9kBlVvhk)
Unfortuneatly this album is not on Spotify, but their previous three are.
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This is awesome! I'm flattered. Definitely following.
I've heard of Kiuas a couple times, but never listened. Listening to Of Love, Lust and Human Nature - this is a cool song. Love the piano in there. The singer reminds me of someone but I can't pinpoint it. It's like there's hints of Arcturus, Serj Tankian, and some others in there. Going to look into this a bit more tomorrow, it sounds promising.
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I'll be following along here :metal
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I have 3 earlier albums (The New Dark Age , Reformation and The Spirit of Ukko) but can't find this one. I can't remember much about them but based on my song ratings I liked The New Dark Age (2008) the best , so I should check this one.
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Following and probably commenting if I know something, or something interests me.
Although I am a power metal and symphonic metalhead, I love a lots of odd ball stuff, that will no doubt have some of you scratching your head and thinking WTF is he on about?
I always like it when people introduce new things and their view on it.
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I am now in my 51st year
That makes us the exact same age!
Looking very much forward to the list.
Kiuas? Never heard of them. Naturally Brent has three of their albums. :lol
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The New Dark Age is also a very strong album, there is a version that has a pretty decent cover of Whitesnake's Sailing Ships.
Somehow I ended up with three versions of the album....
Thanks for the encouragement, number 49 is almost ready.
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Following the fuck out of this list.
Oh, and what Tim said.
Since this one isn't on Spotify, I'll give The New Dark Age a go at some point (likely after September 8th). My 'DTF Recc'n' list just keeps getting longer.
Edit... must be a country specific thing Gazin, cuz I see Lustdriven on Spotify (Canada).
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Yeah strange how some countries it's not on, I did a double check and definitely not on Australian Spotify.
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49.
Emerson, Lake & Powell
Emerson, Lake & Powell
Progressive Rock
released 1986 on Polydor Records
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/1/14/Emerson%2C_Lake_%26_Powell_-_Emerson%2C_Lake_%26_Powell_%281986%29_Front_Cover.jpg)
1. "The Score" 9:10
2. "Learning to Fly" 3:52
3. "The Miracle" 7:02
4. "Touch and Go" 3:35
5. "Love Blind" 3:08
6. "Step Aside" 3:42
7. "Lay Down Your Guns" 4:20
8. "Mars, the Bringer of War" 7:53
9. "The Loco-Motion" 4:40
10. "Vacant Possession" 4:42
Band line up
Keith Emerson – keyboards
Greg Lake – vocals, guitars, bass; producer
Cozy Powell – drums, percussion
I have little or next to no love for any kind of 1970's progressive rock, I've tried listening to all the classic bands and they do absolutely nothing for me, zilch.
But I remember hearing Fanfare For The Common Man, that opening keyboard sound is just magic, even now it gives me chills whenever I hear it.
It was when I first heard Touch and Go on the radio and then the subsequent video, something clicked and I knew I had to investigate this further.
I originally owned this on cassette tape, I literally wore it out, I upgraded a couple of years ago with the Japan SHM-CD reissue that has two bonus tracks on it.
So what makes this different to the classic 70's prog rock of ELP?
Two words, Cozy Powell. His thunderous hard hitting drums, that were his trademark with all the various bands he played over the years, is in full song here.
It's almost like having an extra keyboard, or guitar with Cozy in the band, his drums seem to take space that might normally given to another instrument.
Listening to it today, i think I know why I was so taken to it and still am, Emerson's keyboard sound is very 1980's pop sounding to my ears.
Whether is the albums three longer songs, or the poppy 3 minute tracks, it has that sound of the time and even today not really that dated.
But all this would mean nothing without great songs and this album has them all. From the opening epic fanfare of The Score to the grandiose finale of
Mars The Bringer of War, this record sounds as huge as the three gentleman's ego's and resumes would indicate.
The album's shorter songs also have a prescient charm, the jazzy piano of Step Aside or the plea to Lay Down Your Guns.
Sadly this version of ELP would only make one studio album and tour.
There are several live recordings where Cozy makes a genuine difference on the older songs and of course sounds magnificent on this records tunes.
Touch and Go https://youtu.be/lRsXvZiiNNY (https://youtu.be/lRsXvZiiNNY)
This album is not on Spotify (Australia)
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Fucking following mate. Glad you are doing this but surprised it's happening so quickly.
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Kiuas? Never heard of them. Naturally Brent has three of their albums. :lol
Lol yeah thought the exact same thing.
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Saw the ELPowell tour. Met Cozy after the show. Can post some pics later. He signed my
breast ticket stub.
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Kiuas? Never heard of them.
Wow, change the record. :lol
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My dad is a huge ELP fan, and as such, ELPowell was played heavily in the house when it came out. My Dad got tickets for the show in Cleveland and took me along for my 9th birthday. Such a cool show! Cozy Powell's drums sound HUGE on this record, and they were just as HUGE live. It's such a shame that they only made one album. It would have been really cool to hear where they could have gone. Also, I'd rate their adaptation of Mars as the best classical adaptation Emerson ever did. Better than Toccata, Fanfare and Hoedown. Great record!
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Kiuas? Never heard of them. Naturally Brent has three of their albums. :lol
Lol yeah thought the exact same thing.
Yep, same. :lol
I know some ELP but I don't know this record, may spin the recommended song later.
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This album is not on Spotify (Australia)
Man, Spotify Aus sucks! It's available in Canada.
I never dove in to ELP - love the radio hits (Karn Evil is a Top 50 song of all-time in my books). Not sure why I never tried them. Keyboard-led prog wasn't my bag when I was getting in to 70s rock music. I never got into the pure prog bands like Genesis, Yes, Jethro etc... until much later in life, and for some reason, don't remember if I dug into ELP.
This is saved to the Gazin listen-to list.
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Stadler sent me ELP's debut last year in my album roulette and it blew me away. It's like gentlemen's prog/jazz/rock... prack? :lol
Just listened to Touch & Go - totally different beast. Loved it from the start, those vintage brassy synths remind me of Asia (a good thing). LOVE that huge snare sound. This is really good. Putting this album on the short list as well. Keep 'em coming :corn
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I remember hearing "Touch and Go" back in the day, but never heard anything else off that album. Good tune.
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Certainly sounds like mid 80's :)
Are you a sports fan gaz? Took me many years to realise that I had been listening to ELP every year of my childhood on tv :lol
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49.
Emerson, Lake & Powell
Emerson, Lake & Powell
Progressive Rock
I actually love this album (by the way, the last two songs are bonus tracks on a subsequent release; my original copy doesn't have them). There's a little cheese on there, but generally it's a strong record. I love Touch And Go (the reworked version by ELPalmer doesn't hold a candle), The Miracle, and Mars.
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I have the ELPowell version with the bonus tracks. I haven't heard anything from this in years. I barely remember anything about it. I know I like it though.
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49.
Emerson, Lake & Powell
Emerson, Lake & Powell
Progressive Rock
I actually love this album (by the way, the last two songs are bonus tracks on a subsequent release; my original copy doesn't have them). There's a little cheese on there, but generally it's a strong record. I love Touch And Go (the reworked version by ELPalmer doesn't hold a candle), The Miracle, and Mars.
For me, ELP had a handful of songs that were absolute homeruns, but they never clicked for me as a whole. I was somewhat familiar with "classic" ELP when the album with Cozy came out. Touch and Go was a big radio hit, and I seem to recall borrowing this from a friend and making a cassette copy. Mars was my favorite, and it prompted me to buy a CD of Holst's The Planets (I highly recommend it to anyone into ELP). I can only vaguely recall a few of the other songs. Maybe I'll seek it out and give it a listen.
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Certainly sounds like mid 80's :)
Are you a sports fan gaz? Took me many years to realise that I had been listening to ELP every year of my childhood on tv :lol
Definately 80's, prob why I like it so much, love the pop from that era and there may even be a couple of albums in my top 50 :omg:
Yes massive sports fan, up at 0500 on a Saturday morning watching my team Liverpool FC on opening day of the EPL.
Oh I too have heard Fanfare so many times, C7 used it for many years here.
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Fucking following mate. Glad you are doing this but surprised it's happening so quickly.
Me too, once I started and got Katt's approval to use his formatting it started to flow.
Nice to see some interest from you and everyone else.
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I'm going to go for a walk til sundown tonight and play both these albums.
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Looking forward to your thoughts Katt.
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I am now in my 51st year
That makes us the exact same age!
Looking very much forward to the list.
Kiuas? Never heard of them. Naturally Brent has three of their albums. :lol
Following definitely.
Chalk me up to the 51 club too. Shit, isn’t it? Apart from all the great bands we got to see 🤘🤘🤘
Now this band I never listened to at all. I saw they were Norwegian, saw the name and the logo and put them down as church burners. I’ve checked a couple of tracks out this morning and boy was I wrong. This is excellent and I’m going to be all over it when I get home.
It’s certainly not your typical power metal and for that it’s great
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51 is not too bad, older and hopefully wiser.
Though my body is ageing fast, I've had surgery on my left knee and right ankle this year.
Life with great music has saved me from misery many times.
Kiuas are from Finland.
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51 is not too bad, older and hopefully wiser.
Though my body is ageing fast, I've had surgery on my left knee and right ankle this year.
Life with great music has saved me from misery many times.
Kiuas are from Finland.
Should have said I thought they were from Norway. Still, should teach me not to judge a book by its cover..
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I’ve heard a few ELP tracks and put them in the “not for me “ box. I’ll give this a listen as I love the first three Asia albums.
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I missed the part about that Kiuas album not being on Spotify, so I haven't heard it yet. But that ELP record is fantastic. It's like early Asia blended with The Alan Parsons Project. I'm very impressed. The singing is strong, the keyboards are 80s (in the good way, not the bad way) and it's dripping with melody and groove. Man this is good. That rendition of Mars The Bringer of War by Gustav Holst - WOW. And that cover of The Locomotion is so funny because of how well it fits in with the rest of the record.
This is a really good album, thanks for introducing me to it. Definitely gotta pick up a copy of this someday. :corn
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Glad you enjoyed it mate, probably one of the reasons I started this list to get people into some new/old stuff that may have passed them by.
Locomotion wasn't on my original cassette, it's listed as a bonus track. I'd only ever heard Kylie Minogue's pop version prior to ELP version.
Bummer about the Kiuas album not on Spotify, but I am sure you've already seen the full album up on YT.
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I missed the part about that Kiuas album not being on Spotify, so I haven't heard it yet./quote]
Make sure you double check... cuz it is on Spotify Canada. Might be available in the US too.
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I missed the part about that Kiuas album not being on Spotify, so I haven't heard it yet./quote]
Make sure you double check... cuz it is on Spotify Canada. Might be available in the US too.
They have 3 albums but Lustdriven isn't there :( Yeah gaz, I'm going to play it on Youtube today. Bring on 48!
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48.
Gary Moore
Wild Frontier
Hard Rock
Released 1987 on 10 Records via Virgin
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/d/da/WildFrontier.jpg)
1. "Over The Hills and Far Away" . 5:20
2. "Wild Frontier" 4:14
3. "Take A Little Time" 4:05
4. "The Loner" 5:54
5. "Friday On My Mind" . 4:11
6. "Strangers In The Darkness" 4:48
7. "Thunder Rising" . 5:43
8. "Johnny Boy" 3:15
Bonus Tracks
9. "Over the Hills and Far Away" 7:26
10. "Wild Frontier" 6:38
11. "Crying in the Shadows" 5:01
Band line up
Gary Moore – lead, rhythm and acoustic guitars, lead and backing vocals
Neil Carter – keyboards, backing vocals
Bob Daisley – bass
When a was a kid, I wanted to be a guitar player and I really wanted to sound like Gary Moore.
His playing inspired me to pick up a guitar and one of the first songs I ever learnt was the Loner.
Of course I couldn't play it anything like GM could, but I knew the basics and I was so happy that I did.
Wild Frontier is a strange album of sorts. You will notice that there is no drummer credited on the album, because all the drums are programmed.
There are three different producers (plus GM) on this record, which might indicate that it might have been a difficult album to make.
While that may or may not have been the case, the results turned out to be pretty good, to say the least.
The opening of Over The Hills and Far Away, sets the tone for the album, with it's Irish tinge and celtic influences.
Thought the Nightwish cover is excellent and popularised this track, the extended and live versions of this song, really shine more than the album version.
Strange thing though listening now it's pretty obvious that the drums are programmed, back in the day I had no idea and was horrified when I found out they weren't real.
The title track is one of Gary's finest, playing tribute to his native Ireland and the late Phil Lynott. While The Loner was originally on a Cozy Powell album, that GM basically re-wrote for this album.
Even the cover of The Easybeats, Friday On My Mind sounds pretty decent and Gary manages to make it his own. Thunder Rising is one of GM heaviest songs, also contains a blistering trademark solo.
The album fitting ends with an emotional ballad with reminiscing about days gone by.
Eric Singer was brought into the line up for the subsequent tour, with a show being filmed in Stockholm, released on VHS, but sadly never officially on DVD/BR.
Gary would go on to make one more hard rock album before abandoning the genre for many years and became even more popular as a blues artist.
I never did like Gary's blues output, that style is just not me, but his hard rock output has stood the test of time and this one is an absolute classic.
The video's below are all official, I suggest you check out the live concert from 1987, this is better indication of what Gary was all about than the four promo clips.
The live extended version of The Loner is simply sublime and one of the best guitar instrumentals ever written.
Over The Hills and Far Away https://youtu.be/7IocRCDWB5k (https://youtu.be/7IocRCDWB5k)
Wild Frontier https://youtu.be/zsR-6bunsbI (https://youtu.be/zsR-6bunsbI)
The Loner https://youtu.be/6gcPdeL4Dnc (https://youtu.be/6gcPdeL4Dnc)
Friday On My Mind https://youtu.be/qDorH739Zgk (https://youtu.be/qDorH739Zgk)
Live In Sweden 1987 (VHS) https://youtu.be/xsMKdlB3lbI (https://youtu.be/xsMKdlB3lbI)
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/7HSONsw7mumBE5q0e7KJW2
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Niiiice ..........Number 35 from my Top 50 :) Despite the crappy drums the album certainly has an atmosphere all its own , unlike much of what is released today.
Wild Frontier was my first exposure to Moore and that probably decided it.........I was 13 when it was released and I think I heard the solo from Friday On My Mind on the radio and decided I would investigate. To this day that song is the only time I have heard "rock" Gary Moore on mainstream commercial radio. One other weird thing about this album (or my copy anyway)- the volume dropped off for Thunder Rising if memory serves correct.
These days I would probably throw on Corridors instead but my Top 50 was more based around influence than "best" at any given time (easier to judge) , so Wild Frontier got the slot.
EDIT: I actually cheated and ended up doing a dual entry for Wild Frontier and Corridors of Power :)
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Never noticed the volume drop off, but my version I have is Japan 2002 remaster, so it might have been fixed.
I was lucky enough to get mine signed by Bob Daisley at his instore book signing at Utopia Records a couple of years ago.
A close second would be Run For Cover, which despite 3 different singers and a multitude of producers manages to come together rather nicely.
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Love this album. First heard “Over the Hills” on the local radio station that had a program on Sunday nights which showcased the popular hits in England.
“Thunder Rising” kicks all sorts of ass.
I too wasn’t as big of fan of Gary’s blues albums and much prefer this one and After The War.
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I could never get into After The War - it's the one out of his rock albums that I never listen to. I was super excited to hear a new record was coming out with Ozzy on it etc......but it just left me flat. It felt like an album he threw together to move on to his blues stuff - to me anyway.
I like Run For Cover too.
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Touch And Go?
Wild Frontiers?
Holy crap man. My youth!
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I could never get into After The War - it's the one out of his rock albums that I never listen to. I was super excited to hear a new record was coming out with Ozzy on it etc......but it just left me flat. It felt like an album he threw together to move on to his blues stuff - to me anyway.
I like Run For Cover too.
The Ozzy song is probably the worst song on the album. Blood of Emeralds is awesome.
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So much to say. But I need my laptop
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I could never get into After The War - it's the one out of his rock albums that I never listen to. I was super excited to hear a new record was coming out with Ozzy on it etc......but it just left me flat. It felt like an album he threw together to move on to his blues stuff - to me anyway.
I like Run For Cover too.
The Ozzy song is probably the worst song on the album. Blood of Emeralds is awesome.
One of the better songs from memory but sounded a bit too much like Over The Hills .........for my liking. The fiddle part from Over The Hills is almost regurgitated and that's what I meant about the writing feeling rather rushed to me.
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Wild Frontier is my favorite Gary Moore record. Good choice. :metal :metal :metal
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Gary Moore - Live in Belfast 1989, pro shot, sound is straight from the board not- remixed.
Great so see some decent footage from this era, Chris Slade on drums, Cozy had left to play with Sabbath.
https://youtu.be/ixx-bTxtWdE
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Niiiice ..........Number 35 from my Top 50 :) Despite the crappy drums the album certainly has an atmosphere all its own , unlike much of what is released today.
Wild Frontier was my first exposure to Moore and that probably decided it.........I was 13 when it was released and I think I heard the solo from Friday On My Mind on the radio and decided I would investigate. To this day that song is the only time I have heard "rock" Gary Moore on mainstream commercial radio. One other weird thing about this album (or my copy anyway)- the volume dropped off for Thunder Rising if memory serves correct.
These days I would probably throw on Corridors instead but my Top 50 was more based around influence than "best" at any given time (easier to judge) , so Wild Frontier got the slot.
EDIT: I actually cheated and ended up doing a dual entry for Wild Frontier and Corridors of Power :)
I only have a remastered copy but I have trouble with the audio all over the album. It seems on a few of the songs the volumes start quite low and then gradualy gets louder as the song goes on. I think this happens on a few like Over the Hills and Thunder Rising. I'll have to go back and check.
Brilliant album though. Run For Cover is probably my fav 80's albums from Gary if I were to pick one to put on to listen too. Love most of what's on there.
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I can live with the programmed drums, although I'm not sure why GM thought that this was a good idea. But I have an old cd, probably one of the first pressings of that record and the sound is terrible. It sounds thin and tinny and the volume varies from track to track.
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Glad to see it wasn't just me that thought Wild Frontier's mastering was all over the shop :tup In other ways it was probably his most polished, commercial effort to that point so it's hard to see why it was released like that.
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Glad to see it wasn't just me that thought Wild Frontier's mastering was all over the shop :tup In other ways it was probably his most polished, commercial effort to that point so it's hard to see why it was released like that.
If it didn't have the sound problems and better production, I'd probably be his best IMO. These issues really hurt it.
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Wild Frontier has really aged well for me. There are some great songs on this. When this came out, I was still concerned. I found Run For Cover extremely uneven. The programmed drums were immediately off putting for me right off the bat. The production really isn't that great either. I remember it also having a re-edit of Empty Rooms, which I thought was terrible, and why put it on this in the first place. Like I said, there are some amazing tunes on this.
I actually saw this tour. The band of Daisley, Singer, and Carter was amazing. I saw them in a tiny club.
August 29, 1987
The Living Room
Providence, RI
(https://i.imgur.com/XMjUcl9.jpg)
I could never get into After The War - it's the one out of his rock albums that I never listen to. I was super excited to hear a new record was coming out with Ozzy on it etc......but it just left me flat. It felt like an album he threw together to move on to his blues stuff - to me anyway.
I like Run For Cover too.
The Ozzy song is probably the worst song on the album. Blood of Emeralds is awesome.
Right. Led Clones is terrible, but Speak For Yourself, which Ozzy is also on, is fantastic.
That whole album is amazing, and while Corridors Of Power is my favorite for him, After The War was his "rock peak" for me. It was the album he had been trying to achieve all decade.
Then just as he achieved it, he abandoned it.
His first two blues albums, Still Got The Blues and After Hours are great, culminating in one of my all time favorite live albums Blues Alive. Even though the Blues was not a passing fancy with him, he was still amazing. The collection of Montreaux live albums are incredible. It's a shame that he had just started playing rock again before he died.
Gary Moore - Live in Belfast 1989, pro shot, sound is straight from the board not- remixed.
Great so see some decent footage from this era, Chris Slade on drums, Cozy had left to play with Sabbath.
https://youtu.be/ixx-bTxtWdE
I have spent many a night going down the Gary Moore rabbit hole on youtube. So much amazing stuff.
And THIS is an amazing DVD.
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/ba/One_night_in_dublin.jpg/220px-One_night_in_dublin.jpg)
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Yeah TIm, that DVD is impressive.
I got a boot copy of the Stockholm show on DVD too, that show is amazing.
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His first two blues albums, Still Got The Blues and After Hours are great, culminating in one of my all time favorite live albums Blues Alive. Even though the Blues was not a passing fancy with him, he was still amazing. The collection of Montreaux live albums are incredible. It's a shame that he had just started playing rock again before he died.
Still Got The Blues is a really great album, he plays that high energy blues like no other. After Hours was a bit more sketchy, some good tunes, some mediocre ones.
I've got a bootleg from the Still Got The Blues tour and Gary is just on fire.
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47.
Vanden Plas
The Colour Temple
Melodic/Prog Metal
Originally self released in 1994
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/84/Colour_Temple_cover.jpg)
1. "Father" . 5:39
2. "Push" . 4:16
3. "When the Wind Blows" . 7:10
4. "My Crying" 5:26
5. "Soul Survives" . 9:07
6. "Anytime" . 7:06
7. "Judas" . 6:03
8. "Back to Me" . 5:31
9. "How Many Tears" . 8:15
Bonus tracks
10. "Fire" . 5:18
11. "Days of Thunder" 4:45
Band line up
Andy Kuntz – lead vocals, background vocals
Stephan Lill – guitar, background vocals
Günter Werno – keyboard, background vocals
Andreas Lill – drums
Torsten Reichert – bass
Back in the pre-internet days, I used to trade tapes with a pen pal (whom I never met) in France.
We would exchange cassettes every few months, hoping to discover something new and exciting between us.
It must have been around 1995 that a tape arrived with three Vanden Plas, Angra and others that I cannot recall.
But it was those two bands that had the biggest impact on me at the time.
At that time trying to track down the actual CD's was near impossible in Australia, but I did manage to track down a rather expensive Japan import.
Thankfully the rest of the album turned out to be pretty good, and had two killer bonus tracks that (were) Japan exclusive.
Down to the music, well this is probably Vanden Plas least progressive release, it still had it many moments that would be more prevalent on subsequent releases.
Listening to this release 25 years later, one thing that stands out and make this release stand strong, is the production.
The early 1990's were mostly free from the horrible compression that most modern metal releases seem to suffocate with.
Song wise there is merely a weak moment here, the riffs the melodies and vocals are all excellent.
Andy Kuntz vocals are a little on the raw side though, nothing too distracting, but he definitely improved in the years ahead.
Hightlights? Well I really can't too many weak spots at all, and if I did I might just be nit picking a tad.
For a debut album, this is one of the best I have ever heard and stands tall with only a few others in my collection.
Even the two bonus tracks, which are by far the most melodic, almost AORish on the album really are far too strong be be relegated to special markets.
The band would dial up the heaviness and prog for the next release, The God Thing, which is a strong release.
But as they say sometimes, your first love is always the one you remember.
Soul Survives https://youtu.be/FI4OyGS1ti4 (https://youtu.be/FI4OyGS1ti4)
Father https://youtu.be/SIGfpfS4kDc (https://youtu.be/SIGfpfS4kDc)
How Many Tears https://youtu.be/1gkEpPEw5CY (https://youtu.be/1gkEpPEw5CY)
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/12l8zxa2A2hACAsew4pyN9
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Doing well gaz .................made my DTF Top 50 too :biggrin:
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I've seen Vanden Plas open for Dream Theater, it may have been on one of the six degrees tours, but they left me totally cold. But since then I've heard so many good things about them I will give them another try.
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I've been a fan of this band for quite a while now but only a couple of the later albums. I never dived deep into all their albums. I'm pretty sure it was Brent's praise of this album in his top 50 that made me sit up and explore the band more. I get the love for this one, it's fantastic. I was so surprised how good it was. So much win and I liked the less progginess of it too. That really appealed to me. Great choice.
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I was introduced to them in a similar manner. The guy that got me in to Dream Theater subsequently (about 5 years later) made me a CD of .mp3s that introduced me to VP (along with Ten, Shadow Gallery, Ayreon, and a few others that didn't quite stand the test of time). Love - LOVE - Andy's voice, and I'm very much looking forward to the upcoming release. The Netherworld albums were both top 2 of the year when they were released. I don't often go back to the debut album, but it is a very good listen.
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The Netherworld albums were both top 2 of the year when they were released.
Not busting balls Chad, so please don't take it that way. Not directing this at you....just discussing about the band..
I just put myself through the torture listening to those a few weeks ago. I think they are terrible. I hate that guy's voice.
Those albums are all I know of Vanden Plas.
But I'm willing to check this one out for sure. Is it the same singer?
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I had a bunch of trouble linking to tracks in my Top 50 as many albums were pretty rare and based on the thread title I think Gaz might've liked to link to Push which is one of my faves.
I uploaded tracks like this as Unlisted Youtube videos at the time , so here it is .
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5eIHEDzMow&feature=youtu.be
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The Netherworld albums were both top 2 of the year when they were released.
Not busting balls Chad, so please don't take it that way. Not directing this at you....just discussing about the band..
I just put myself through the torture listening to those a few weeks ago. I think they are terrible. I hate that guy's voice.
Those albums are all I know of Vanden Plas.
But I'm willing to check this one out for sure. Is it the same singer?
I get ya... he does have a very distinctive voice, and I can understand it being a love it or hate it proposition. I'm in the former camp. And yeah, Andy is the vocalist across the discography. If his voice rubs you the wrong way, you probably shouldn't bother.
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Beyond Daylight is a dope album but I am not too familiar with The Colour Temple. I remember playing it once recently but I was busy and so I don't remember it... This is a perfect excuse to get back to it.
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Niiiice ..........Number 35 from my Top 50 :) Despite the crappy drums the album certainly has an atmosphere all its own , unlike much of what is released today.
Wild Frontier was my first exposure to Moore and that probably decided it.........I was 13 when it was released and I think I heard the solo from Friday On My Mind on the radio and decided I would investigate. To this day that song is the only time I have heard "rock" Gary Moore on mainstream commercial radio. One other weird thing about this album (or my copy anyway)- the volume dropped off for Thunder Rising if memory serves correct.
These days I would probably throw on Corridors instead but my Top 50 was more based around influence than "best" at any given time (easier to judge) , so Wild Frontier got the slot.
EDIT: I actually cheated and ended up doing a dual entry for Wild Frontier and Corridors of Power :)
Gary got played on the radio a fair bit in the UK, especially with the tie in with Phil Lynott on Out In The Fields. Empty Rooms was big too.
Great albu. 2nd gig I ever went to was GM on the Victims of the Future tour. Saw him many times both on his rock stuff and the blues days. Loved him. So sad he’s gone.
I have a real soft spot for his Irish stuff so this albums is so great.
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I actually saw this tour. The band of Daisley, Singer, and Carter was amazing. I saw them in a tiny club.
August 29, 1987
The Living Room
Providence, RI
That must have been insane. I'm not the hugest Gary Moore fan (more from ignorance than any real dislike) but still.
Right. Led Clones is terrible, but Speak For Yourself, which Ozzy is also on, is fantastic.
I've heard Led Clones before, but never put two and two together; I did not know that was technically a Gary Moore song.
EDIT: Going down the wikipedia rabbit hole with Gary Moore, I learned something new: Tommy Eyre, who played keys with Moore (on Corridors of Power) and Michael Schenker (Assault Attack), played on one of my favorite songs of all time ("Baker Street") and was musical director for.... Wham!. Then, Andy Nye, who took over for Eyre in MSG, appeared on the Tonight Show (a famous late night show here in the States) with Sheena Easton.
I love the circle of music.
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Not heard “Colour Temple” but do have other VP discs in my library. Will check this one out.
Loving this thread so far.
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46.
Sabaton
Carolus Rex
Power Metal
Released by Nuclear Blast in 2012
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/a3/Sabaton_-_Carolus_Rex_LTD.jpg)
1. "Dominium maris Baltici" . 0:29
2. "The Lion from the North" . 4:42
3. "Gott Mit Uns" . 3:15
4. "A Lifetime of War" . 5:45
5. "1648" . 3:54
6. "The Carolean's Prayer" . 6:14
7. "Carolus Rex" . 4:53
8. "Killing Ground" . 4:24
9. "Poltava" . 4:03
10. "Long Live the King" . 4:09
11. "Ruina Imperii" . 3:21
Bonus tracks
12. "Twilight of the Thunder God" . 3:59
13. "In the Army Now" . 3:59
14. "Feuer frei!" 3:12
15. "Harley from Hell" . 3:50
Band line up
Joakim Brodén – lead vocals
Pär Sundström – bass
Oskar Montelius – guitars, backing vocals
Rikard Sundén – guitars, backing vocals
Daniel Mÿhr – keyboards, backing vocals
Daniel Mullback – drums
I was a little late to first not only hearing Sabaton, but also finally clicking with them.
It wasn't until i saw them supporting Nightwish at the Enmore Theatre in Sydney a few years ago that the penny dropped.
I don't think I'd ever seen a (support) band with so much energy that totally blew me away.
Carolus Rex was the first album that I tracked down and although it's regular edition only is 45 minutes long, it's one of their most epic albums.
But the weird thing is that four band members decided to leave Sabaton shortly after finishing recording this.
To me this was the heart and soul of the band and they have never matched this album or been the same since.
One of my favourite concept albums, about the rise and fall of the Swedish Empire and in particular King Charles XII.
What sets this apart from many other metal bands concept album, is all the songs work singularly as well as a collective.
While the songwriting is supreme, the hooks, the chorus catchy enough to draw immediate attention, yet bear repeated listens.
The melody is balanced by the right amount of heaviness with Peter Tägtgren crystal clear production audibly noticeable.
The album was released in both English and the bands native tongue, Swedish.
I actually enjoy listening to both, the strength is in the songwriting and in both languages it works remarkably well.
While some songs work better for me in English, 'A Lifetime Of War' (my fave Sabaton 'slow' song) other seem to gather strength when sung
the band's native tongue ('Carolus Rex' and 'Killing Ground').
The album is relatively short at just on 45 minutes, but with that said, it means that it does not drag on and can be enjoyed more often.
Sabaton have many fine album's to choose from, but in the end the decision to pick this one was easy.
The Lion From The North https://youtu.be/T1gvNaC17B4 (https://youtu.be/T1gvNaC17B4)
Ruina Imperii https://youtu.be/vDKB4kT3o1w (https://youtu.be/vDKB4kT3o1w)
Carolus Rex (Swedish Version) https://youtu.be/WhA9BkOBrTE (https://youtu.be/WhA9BkOBrTE)
Sabaton's History Channel The Carolean's Prayer https://youtu.be/z9YkX3fsZHQ (https://youtu.be/z9YkX3fsZHQ)
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/6oHloP6K30IDq3KVNVIBOf
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Wow! Certainly didn't expect to see this! Can't say I'm a Sabaton fan; I don't mind the songs Carolus Rex and Primo Victoria, but I've heard Primo Victoria (the album) and didn't think much of it, and even less of The Last Stand. I think I tried Carolus Rex once upon a time but I don't remember, so I'm going to give this a spin tomorrow. 45 minutes is around the perfect length for most albums in my opinion.
Sabaton has always struck me a one-trick pony, honestly - and not a trick I'm interested in sadly - but knowing Carolus Rex isn't about WW2 has me a bit more intrigued. Also had no idea it was released in two languages. That's really cool. Their singer is talented and seems like a really cool guy. Didn't know about the lineup changes either, that sucks.
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I'm actually surprised that your not into them ;D
I love their subject matter about military history, as I have served (Navy) for nearly 20 years, it's a big deal for me.
Not all their songs are about WW2 either, they have plenty of different subject matter.
But I can understand the one trick pony thing.
The three post CR albums have never been quite as good, I think the line changes haven't helped.
That said the four members that left went on to form a killer band in Civil War, no prizes for guessing what their lyrics are about...
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I've honestly never given Sabaton the time of day,. I'm not in love with the vocals, but I feel like I could get by them if I had to.
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I gave Sabaton a go a few years back when they were touring with IE and ReVamp. I was there for the ReVamp mostly, but dug Sabaton (saw them again a couple years later opening for Nightwish). Didn't know that Floor was marrying one of the band members there. Anywhoo... I think Katt nailed it - they're a one-trick pony to me. Enjoyable enough, but it gets tired pretty quick. CR was the active album at the time, and I liked it well enough, and as you said - man do they put on a high-energy show on stage. Fun as hell live, but not something I'd ever proactively turn to on my own.
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Ohhh so that's how Civil War came to be! I only know of them because of Kelly Carpenter, but I haven't checked them out.
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All three Civil War full albums are pretty strong, but Nils Patrick Johansson vocals are not for everyone.
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The Netherworld albums were both top 2 of the year when they were released.
Not busting balls Chad, so please don't take it that way. Not directing this at you....just discussing about the band..
I just put myself through the torture listening to those a few weeks ago. I think they are terrible. I hate that guy's voice.
Those albums are all I know of Vanden Plas.
But I'm willing to check this one out for sure. Is it the same singer?
I get ya... he does have a very distinctive voice, and I can understand it being a love it or hate it proposition. I'm in the former camp. And yeah, Andy is the vocalist across the discography. If his voice rubs you the wrong way, you probably shouldn't bother.
I know we're on #46 now, but I love that Vanden Plas is on this list. My pick would probably be Beyond Daylight or Far Off Grace, but I'm glad to see them here. I too love Andy's voice.
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Ciivl war official video's;
Braveheart https://youtu.be/EtF9korJodM
Bay Of Pigs https://youtu.be/lXAvNLTWNMM
Tombstone https://youtu.be/yFFZPOWeOdE
Road To Victory https://youtu.be/uLTUQsI7O9M
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All three Civil War full albums are pretty strong, but Nils Patrick Johansson vocals are not for everyone.
Nah, but they should be. He's the best part of Wuthering Heights. Now I have Civil War AND Sabaton for tomorrow. Lots of listening to do :biggrin:
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I'm a very casual Sabaton fan and only know a couple of their later albums. They didn't hook me enough to explore everything but they are good listens. I'll have to check this one out and dig out the cd's I have.
I think I have Heroes and the last one.
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I have the album but never got around to giving it a proper listen. I do remember reading that many prefer the Swedish version as it's "as originally written."
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I gave Sabaton a go a few years back when they were touring with IE and ReVamp. I was there for the ReVamp mostly, but dug Sabaton (saw them again a couple years later opening for Nightwish). Didn't know that Floor was marrying one of the band members there. Anywhoo... I think Katt nailed it - they're a one-trick pony to me. Enjoyable enough, but it gets tired pretty quick. CR was the active album at the time, and I liked it well enough, and as you said - man do they put on a high-energy show on stage. Fun as hell live, but not something I'd ever proactively turn to on my own.
This is pretty much exactly how I feel about Sabaton. I can't listen to more than a couple songs and then I'm bored of it.
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Holy hell. What have I been missing out on? This Carolus Rex album is the bee's knees. Absolutely blows away The Last Stand which didn't have any standout songs imo. But on this, almost every song is a banger. Might actually put this on the purchase list. I am impressed!
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For me it was their last truely great and also unique sounding album.
I think it's mainly down to the strong songwriting of course, but also the chemistry within the band.
Once the four members left leaving only Joakim and Par, I think they really lost something that has never been replaced.
Plus the loss of the keyboard player, live with all the keyboard sounds, looks a little odd with no keyboardist up onstage.
Can highly recommned getting this version
https://www.discogs.com/Sabaton-Carolus-Rex-Platinum-Edition/release/12874923
2018 re-issue has all the bonus tracks and the Swedish version.
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Thanks gaz. I'm definitely putting that on the list. I'll cop to having an unfair bias against them for a long time based on what little I knew and unfortunate album choices, but this is just a damn good metal record.
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Mate it's happened to me so many times with different bands, glad you liked it :metal
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I'll cop to having an unfair bias against them for a long time based on what little I knew and unfortunate album choices,/quote]
That is probably a substantial list for me as well. We all have lots of bands / albums we can call out like this.
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Checked out a few Civil War songs. Not really feeling it the way Carolus Rex did. Not bad, but not really begging me to come back. Haven't written them off though, I'll just come back to them later. But I've already found two awesome records from this list in ELP and Sabaton, so that's cool!
I couldn't find The Colour Temple on Spotify for some reason, but then I realized 'The Epic Works' is on Spotify, and the first disc is The Colour Temple (without bonus tracks). So I'm playing it now. Let's see #45, gaz! :corn
EDIT: Just finished The Colour Temple. Not bad, but nothing really stuck.
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Kinda forgot about this thread. :P
I saw Sabaton live once, they were entertaining as hell, but the music itself isn't quite for me. It's alright, but I'm not a big fan.
The instrumental orchestral version of the new album makes a fantastic soundtrack though.
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45.
I
Between Two Worlds
Black'n'Roll
Released by Nuclear Blast in 2006
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/ac/Between_Two_Worlds_-_I.jpg)
1. "The Storm I Ride" . 3:27
2. "Warriors" 5:53
3. "Between Two Worlds" . 5:52
4. "Battalions" . 4:46
5. "Mountains" . 6:05
6. "Days of North Winds" . 4:04
7. "Far Beyond the Quiet" . 7:13
8. "Cursed We Are" . 5:14
Bonus Tracks
9. "Bridges of Fire" . 7:36
10. "Shadowed Realms (Intro)" . 1:31
11. "Shadowed Realms" . 5:44
Band line up
Abbath – vocals, guitars
T.C. King – bass
Ice Dale – guitars
Armagedda – drums
Demonaz – lyrics
In my introduction post I mentioned some 'odd ball' inclusions on this list and this is one of them.
'I' so far have only released this one album, were sometimes referred as a black metal supergroup, with a line up being who's who of the BM genre.
But the music and lyrics couldn't be farther from that often perplexing brand of metal.
In fact this album is one of the hardest albums in my collection to categorise, so I just went with black'n'roll.
Black for Abbath's vocals, because of his very distintive voice and roll for that the guitars often remind me of a slightly more metallic Motorhead.
Even more so that throughout 'Between Two Worlds', Abbath's voice every now and then has a distinct Lemmy accent to it.
What makes this album so special to me is the songs themselves, the riffs, and once again an immaculate production and mix from Peter Tägtgren.
Did I mention the riffs? Wow there are just so many good ones here, almost spoilt for choice, Abbath really did throw everything into this.
Demonaz lyrics fit in perfectly, with themes of nature and and the bleak forests delivered by a slightly less extreme Abbath.
Sadly this very talented line up to date have only made this album, it's one of the few band's that I really wish to make another album.
The album has been out of print for a few years now, of course it can be found on ebay and discogs.
Even if you can't stand Abbath's voice or anything black metal associated, his guitar playing, tone and riffs are worth the price alone of this great album.
For me this is the best album the man has ever made.
I couldn't find anything official on You Tube, but it's all there to be found!
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/6ijplltR1r4fCjYvcriRFP
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I have never heard of this before. I'll check it out.
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I have never heard of this before. I'll check it out.
Yeah, sounds interesting.
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Ah, yes. Abbath's other band. This is a good album. I never expected it to be in your top 50 though.
And yeah, Black n Roll works for this. :metal
Have you ever listened to Kvelertak?
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Wow, this one seems like a hard left turn. I'll give this an attempt, although black metal is more or less my musical kryptonite. We'll have to see how this compares to the other black metal I know.
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I’ve sampled Sabaton but didn’t find anything there to get them excited about. Civil War fared a little better but not something I go back to much. It’s a bit too much of 5hat standard power metal drums going 100mph all the time.
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Wow, this one seems like a hard left turn. I'll give this an attempt, although black metal is more or less my musical kryptonite. We'll have to see how this compares to the other black metal I know.
I is NOT a black metal album in any way, even Abbath's vocals are more restrained and the music as I described as a slightly more metal version of Motorhead.
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Interesting. Maybe I’ll check this out.
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I just checked this out. Very cool.
Holy Motorhead, Batman!
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44.
Damn The Machine
Damn The Machine
Progressive Metal
Released by A&M in 1993
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/a1/Damn_the_Machine_-_1993_-_Damn_the_Machine.jpg)
1. "The Mission" 4:19
2. "Fall of Order" 3:45
3. "Corporate Reign" 3:30
4. "Honor" 3:51
5. "Lonesome God" 3:26
6. "On with the Dream" 4:31
7. "Patriot" 2:47
8. "I Will" 2:49
9. "Silence" 4:58
10. "Russians" 5:40
11. "Countryside" 3:20
12. "Humans" 4:23
Band line up
David Judson Clemmons – lead vocals, guitar
Chris Poland – guitar, background vocals
Mark Poland – drums, background vocals
Dave Randi – bass, background vocals
Not sure what genre this actually is, it's definitely prog metal, but has no long songs, not much in terms of shredding or widdly diddly prog oddities.
But it has clean guitars, a little bit of jazz, odd time signatures and most importantly great songs.
This is one of those albums that I always loved, but after a break of a few years this has simply gotten better with age.
It's memorable for the songs, the hooks and just giving you a great feeling every time you listen.
Chris Poland is of course well know of Megadeth fame, he is joined by his brother Mark on drums and s couple of unknown's on vocals and bass.
Given that the big prog metal guns of this era had pretty big fat sounds, a la Dream Theater, Queensryche and Fates Warning, DTM manage some quite
sparse organic sounds, and no keyboards.
Besides the great music, the lyrics are equally good, all of them tell their own individual story, as well as leaving nothing to the imagination.
With the likes of Russians, Patriot and Corporate reign as prime examples.
Sadly this is yet another one off album that made my top 50, although DTM did attempt to make a second album, there are demo's around that hinted of a follow up, but was never realised.
This album has never been re-issued or remastered, and frankly it does not need to be brickwalled, it sounds as good as it did 26 years ago.
The Mission https://youtu.be/qN0kgclk4ik
Countryside https://youtu.be/r66lM-PrdDY
Humans https://youtu.be/jQnWl7UwYII
I Will https://youtu.be/FqO1qjU6s84
This album is not on Spotify, long out of print, but fairly easy to track down on CD for a decent price.
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This is one that I got into my collection because it was rare (it's what I do :) ) but never really listened to. Will remedy that with thanks to gazza.
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Heard of it but never heard it. Will add to the list. Chris Poland is an amazing guitarist.
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Never heard of it, but added it to the Top-50 listen to list... which will fire up in 10-ish days after ProgPower USA. This one really intrigues me.
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Love this album. Wish they had made more.
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I gave Sabaton a go a few years back when they were touring with IE and ReVamp. I was there for the ReVamp mostly, but dug Sabaton (saw them again a couple years later opening for Nightwish). Didn't know that Floor was marrying one of the band members there. Anywhoo... I think Katt nailed it - they're a one-trick pony to me. Enjoyable enough, but it gets tired pretty quick. CR was the active album at the time, and I liked it well enough, and as you said - man do they put on a high-energy show on stage. Fun as hell live, but not something I'd ever proactively turn to on my own.
Holy hell. What have I been missing out on? This Carolus Rex album is the bee's knees. Absolutely blows away The Last Stand which didn't have any standout songs imo. But on this, almost every song is a banger. Might actually put this on the purchase list. I am impressed!
I saw and first listened to Sabaton when they opened for Nightwish and thought they were really good. Got CR shortly after, I think it was their latest then. I enjoyed it, but as you others said, they are a one trick pony. It's good enough though to really enjoy but not enough to ever be my favorite band. They are fantastic live, I'm sure many here have seen the row pit from the show I went to in Boston last year, my best concert moment of 2018 :metal but if you haven't... https://youtu.be/dpV6bJqf8Wg?t=1088 (https://youtu.be/dpV6bJqf8Wg?t=1088)
also, now following but I think this is all I have to comment on, not familiar with the rest of this list so far
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Omg :lol The only times I've seen that happen were at Amon Amarth and Tyr shows! Metalheads are hilarious.
gaz... still following the thread but with PP next week, gonna be a while before I catch up.
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There was a row pit for Alestorm at PP last year, but it was very small compared to this. I love it, I had never heard that song (Swedish Pagans) or been to a Sabaton headline show or been to that venue and travelled for this show but when that happened, I just couldn't stop smiling and laughing at the awesomeness. So epic, and that is why I love music and concerts. That moment alone made everything worth it in terms of making it to that show, also King taking me out for beers earlier helped :yarr
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Marc, that is an all time great video.
Oh, and Boston :metal
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43.
Virtuocity
Secret Visions
Power Metal
Released by Spinefarm/King Records 2002
(https://img.discogs.com/pEmdufwUECotdtr0ZpA1X8cxvME=/fit-in/290x292/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-2500717-1287427721.jpeg.jpg)
1 Eye For An Eye 4:25
2 Rise & Rule 4:23
3 Pharaoh's Dream 5:01
4 Crucified 5:30
5 Speed Of Light 4:36
6 No Destination 5:23
7 Without You 4:39
8 Tears Of Babylo 5:19
9 Raging Destiny 7:55
10 Secret Visions 6:17
Japan Bonus Tracks
11 New Empire 6:11
12 Ruins Of Love 5:11
13 Time Passing By 4:55
Band line up
Drums – Jaska Raatikainen
Guitar, Bass – Jaron Sebastian Raven
Keyboards – Janne Tolsa
Vocals – Peter James Goodman
Virtuocity was what we used to call a 'super group' from Finland with the Children of Bodom drummer Tarot keyboardist and Kenziner guitarist.
Add to that the golden voice of Peter James Goodman, plus Marco Hietala on guest lead and backing vocals.
Yet this album is pretty much unknown to even the most hardcore power metal fan.
Despite all the 'big' names on this release, it works, with the power of well written songs and great performances from everyone involved.
Add to this the album sounds great, the production, mix and mastering from Anssi Kippo, Karmila and Jussila all nothing short of spectacular.
White I cannot find out any information on how this 'project' came together, the results have stood the test of time.
This album stands tall with any release from that era, I'd refer to this as a 'cult classic'.
Although Marco Hietala is only credited for lead vocals on two songs, I can pick his voice on a number of other songs, his voice as we all know is quite distinctive.
That's not to say that it takes away anything from Peter James Goodman, as he has a very powerful voice and again relatively unknown outside of Finland.
To be honest I haven't listened to this release for a few years, while looking at Discogs I discovered a Japan version with three exclusive bonus tracks.
Of course I had to track down a copy, I scored a almost mint condition used copy, btw all Japan sellers seem to keep their CD's in near perfect condition.
So the music while very power metal, there is also a number of different flavours here to enhance core sounds of fast guitars and double bass drums.
The guitars of Raven (also known as Jarno Keskinen) are very tastefully done, while he is renown as a shredder, he knows when it's required and when to hold back.
The music varies between the fast and furious standard power metal anthems (Eye For An Eye) to the symphonic fury of 'No Destination', to the handful of neo-classical influences songs.
There's even a quite restrained instrumental title track that threatens to be a shred fest, but just manages to keep itself in check.
Virtuocity would go on to record a second album in 'Northern Twilight Symphony', but that release does not hold a candle to this.
That was it, nothing was ever heard of this excellent band again.
Once again I picked an album that is not on Spotify (Australia) and is out of print.
Cheap copies are available on Discogs and Ebay and any self respecting power metal fan should have this in their collection!
Not surprisingly I couldn't find anything official on You Tube, but the album is there in full to check out.
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(https://i.imgflip.com/39tbm2.jpg)
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I think that at the time when I came across this album I was getting a bit over the neo-classical stuff and possibly dismissed it pretty early. Will re-visit.
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When I was reading I was thinking Gaz may be onto something even Brent doesn't know about...........nope.
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When I was reading I was thinking Gaz may be onto something even Brent doesn't know about...........nope.
:D There'll be plenty in this list that I know nothing about - power metal/classic metal/hard rock/AOR I can be hard to surprise but once gaz spreads out into other areas I will be clueless no doubt. ;D
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Gaz, are you the guy who reviewed this album for Metal Archives? I ran into the review the other month when I was compiling a list of Marco's guest performances. Guess this is another sign I should check it out.
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Nope was not me, but some Marco Hietala trivia for you. He and Peter James Goodman, used to play together in another band a part time covers outfit called 'Metal Gods'.
The first time a I met Marco he was working security on a gate entry to the Tuska Festival in Helsinki. Would have been around 2001, certainly before he joined Nightwish.
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When I was reading I was thinking Gaz may be onto something even Brent doesn't know about...........nope.
:D There'll be plenty in this list that I know nothing about - power metal/classic metal/hard rock/AOR I can be hard to surprise but once gaz spreads out into other areas I will be clueless no doubt. ;D
Well I thought I might have stumped him with I and Damn The Machine, but alas not ;D
I reckon there might be a couple, the next one is not metal, but there was a a buzz around about them when it was released in 1997.
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:corn
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43.
Virtuocity
Secret Visions
Power Metal
And you also finally picked one that isn't on Spotify in Canada. :sadpanda: I hate trying to listen to albums on YT, but might squirrel it away.
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I have catching up to do.
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I have catching up to do.
Catching up?? You've had 17 days since the last album posted. :lol
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I have catching up to do.
Catching up?? You've had 17 days since the last album posted. :lol
I've been listening to other things and recovering from ProgPower! :lol
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42.
Catherine Wheel
Adam and eve
Indie/Alternative/Prog Rock
Chrysalis Records 1997
(https://img.discogs.com/OZzGrYPgG00rt0BOYm_Kkqug4Pg=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-7315278-1484871915-7066.jpeg.jpg)
1 (Intro) – 1:23
2. "Future Boy" – 5:15
3. "Delicious" – 5:10
4. "Broken Nose" – 5:20
5. "Phantom of the American Mother" – 5:43
6. "Ma Solituda" – 5:12
7. "Satellite" – 5:14
8. "Thunderbird" – 6:39
9. "Here Comes the Fat Controller" – 5:31
10. "Goodbye" – 7:02
11. "For Dreaming" – 7:15
12. (Outro) – 3:00
Band line up
Rob Dickinson – vocals, guitar
Brian Futter – lead guitar, backing vocals
Dave Hawes – bass guitar
Neil Sims – percussion, drums
Catherine Wheel were originally an indie/alternative band from England, who's 'claim to fame' was having Talk Talk's Tim Friese-Greene produce
and play on their first couple of albums.
This type of band and music at the time of discovery (1995) was definitely not my thing, but my girlfriend of that time it was her fave band.
So this led me to get into them and to my surprise I actually enjoyed them and still do to this day,
Singer/guitarist/composer Rob Dickinson, cousin of Bruce also gave the band a bit of a boost in the curiosity stakes, though Rob has a pretty good voice, it's actually nothing like his more famous cousin's at all.
The previous release Happy Days, the band went for a lot heavier almost grungey sound, which produced a couple of MTV hits, being 'Waydown' 'Little Muscle' and 'Judy Staring At The Sun'.
For this release the label brought in two big guns, producer Bob Ezrin and renown artist Storm Thorgerson, both who had worked with Pink Floyd.
While I would say there is a bit of Floyd vide about a few songs here, the sound is very distinctive.
But despite all this the album didn't quite do as well as one might have thought.
Whether the indie crowd thought the record was too prog, or for the proggers there was too much alternative, this was 1997 and the year of OK Computer.
For this genre of music, the Radiohead album pretty much swept everything aside and I suspect this is one of the reason's this album was better received.
Maybe it was just a little clever for it's own good?
The music here is quite varied and quite a few singles were issued along with the obligatory video's.
Though I am not exactly sure, this might be a concept album, in a any case I would recommended listening to this all the way though.
Ma Solitude https://youtu.be/FO9WfBVx9-o
Delicious https://youtu.be/FbjnGvZvpSY
Broken Nose https://youtu.be/tzgkx0A3a00
I actually picked an album that is on Spotify Australia and hopefully other territories too :)
https://open.spotify.com/album/4PpDuVrcgj85ycg2H4ZVNm
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Boobs certainly makes this entry worth the wait! :lol
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what happened to this thread?
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what happened to this thread?
Gazinwales pulled an Indiscipline and now we have to wait 8 years for an update :corn
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With little or no interest I was ready to can my top 50 :omg:
But the main reason for the delay is I have moved house 170km south of Sydney and have started a new position within the ADF.
It's taken nearly 4 weeks for the move and to unpack all my stuff and get my hifi system set up and working again.
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Nice mate, good luck to you. There is definitely interest if you manage to continue this.
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Nice mate, good luck to you. There is definitely interest if you manage to continue this.
+1
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Nice mate, good luck to you. There is definitely interest if you manage to continue this.
+1
+2 to all of this! I'm still interested. This thread convinced me to get into a few albums/bands :2metal:
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Gaz, I'm definitely interested in this. Get settled and hit us up when you can.
Gazinwales pulled an Indiscipline and now we have to wait 8 years for an update :corn
:rollin
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I know I don't comment that often, but I was following this and would continue to do so. Take your time and when you feel ready, go on.
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41.
Asia
Asia
Progressive Rock
Geffen Records 1982
1 Heat Of The Moment
2 Only Time Will Tell
3 Sole Survivor
4 One Step Closer
5 Time Again
6 Wildest Dreams
7 Without You
8 Cutting It Fine
9 Here Comes The Feeling
Band line up
Drums, Percussion – Carl Palmer
Guitar, Vocals – Steve Howe
Keyboards, Vocals – Geoffrey Downes
Lead Vocals, Bass Guitar – John Wetton
I remember buying this back in 1982 on cassette tape, there was a lot of hype bout this release from the newly formed 'supergroup'.
At the time I never had really heard of any of the band members or previous music.
Firstly the artwork is still striking after all the years, it has a contemporary Roger Dean feel that is almost timeless.
Opener 'Heat Of the Moment' was a massive hit and an instant classic, that guitar riff still gives me a buzz today when I hear it (and play it myself).
As I would later discover those power chords are unlike anything Steve Howe ever played and definitely not his usual style or sound.
It wasn't until years later when I was trying to work out why I didn't like 1970's Yes, it was Howe guitar sound and style that i never cared for.
Unlike many albums from this era, the sound, production, mix and mastering (mostly Mike Stone) has stood the test of time.
'Only Time Will Tell' sounds massive, that keyboard intro was almost a preliminary to The Final Countdown a few years later.
The rest of the album continue's along the same line, although I don't hear a lot of progressive elements going on, there is enough to suggest that the band were pushing a more commercial AOR sound.
Strange thing is as much as I love this album, I have never owned in on CD, the original cassette is long gone.
I still know every note, every lyric and song by heart, I can play it over and over in my head.
Albums like this bring back so many good memories from that time and make me happy that I can enjoy this music almost 40 years later.
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The Asia album brings back good memories. Solid album :tup
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A simply glorious album.
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This is a fantastic album. Definitely one of the best Asia records in my opinion. I gotta get this one on vinyl for sure.
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This album brings back a lot of memories. I'd love to be 14 again.
I hear Heat Of The Moment everyday on my work intercom.
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This is a fantastic album. Definitely one of the best Asia records in my opinion. I gotta get this one on vinyl for sure.
Yeah same, luckily my local record store has an original Japan vinyl pressing in great condition used for a steal at $25AU.
Also worth mentioning is the Astra album, Steve Howe had left the band and was replaced by Mandy Meyer.
He brought a more metallic sound to the band and teh album is almost 'hair metal'.
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glad to see this thread back in action!
it may pain some of you to know I have the first two Asia albums on vinyl from when they originally came out...
(https://i.imgur.com/uZHgBz5.jpg)
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I wasn't alive when it came out, but my copy of Alpha on vinyl is from 1983! I need the original though :metal
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The first two Asia albums, besides being musically adept, have that stunning timeless artwork.
Remember these were both pre digital and hand drawn/painted by Roger Dean
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I don't really know any Asia, but I've always thought their cover art was amazing.
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That first Asia record is a really good one. I knew Heat Of The Moment of course but it was some years later when I first listened to the whole record. I didn't know that they were supposed to be a supergroup and I didn't really care that most people expected something more proggy. I instantly liked it for what it was and still do so many years later.
PS: Cool thing this thread is back. :metal
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glad to see this thread back in action!
it may pain some of you to know I have the first two Asia albums on vinyl from when they originally came out...
(https://i.imgur.com/uZHgBz5.jpg)
I have the first three. Astra has dated badly but still some good songs on it.
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I heard Heat of the Moment on commercial radio for the first time ever a few days back. Admittedly I rarely listen these days but they were never a big name out here and I daresay that unless I had become a melodic rock junkie in my teens I never would have heard of Asia. Wouldn't fill a pub where I live.
I have a number of their albums but have never been motivated enough to really get into them as much as I should've. I bought a few of their later albums due to the involvement of certain guitarists (Vinny Burns, Guthrie Govan)
On a loosely related note I find John Payne's moves and facial expressions hilarious ;D
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While I find Asia's first couple albums are OK, with a few good songs on each, I really think their later albums starting with Aura are much better. Especially Silent Nation.
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Agree with PoA here, the John Payne era is sadly overlooked by many, but there are some glorious albums made mainly by messers Downes and Payne.
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40.
The Police
Synchronicity
Pop Rock
A&M Records 1983
(https://img.discogs.com/QkLgK1cw74nm8T5axo6DqhlxBhA=/fit-in/600x532/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-5827011-1453542485-6051.jpeg.jpg)
1 Synchronicity I 3:22
2 Walking In Your Footsteps 3:36
3 O My God 4:02
4 Mother 3:05
5 Miss Gradenko 2:00
6 Synchronicity II 5:05
7 Every Breath You Take 4:14
8 King Of Pain 4:59
9 Wrapped Around Your Finger 5:14
10 Tea In The Sahara 4:19
Band line up
Drums, Percussion – Stewart Copeland
Bass, Vocals – Sting
Guitars - Andy Summers
Growing up in the early 1980's I used to hear The Police a lot on the radio and many of their video's.
Although I liked them, they weren't a band that I'd go out of my way to listen (buying the record or cassette) but enjoyed what I heard
I always though of them as a simple pop band, that was until I started to learn to play guitar. Some of those songs turned out to be not so easy to figure out and play.
I was sucked into this album, by (of course) the massive hit Every Breath You Take' and the mega hype that surrounded this album.
I ended up buying the cassette, because it had an exclusive (at the time) bonus track, that turned out to be one of the albums best songs ('Murder By Numbers')
It wasn't until many years later that I started to fully appreciate the Police, not only as musicians but supreme songwriters.
Not just that the sound of their albums, the production on Synchronicity is just so good, it's almost flawless (something I rarely say as an audio nerd)
One thing that stands out is the drums from SC, the sound is just so crisp and precise, his percussion and just about everything almost inspired me to take up the instrument.
Andy Summer guitars never too much, the sounds, the panning from left to right and vice versa, his deft us of effects is just perfect.
What can I say about Sting? He was always underrated as a bassist, but he really grew on me and on this albums he really shines.
So what about the songs?
Every song is killer apart from the truely horrendous Andy Summers sung 'Mother', but even that has made sense as I got older.
Where a lot of albums tale off towards the end, this one seems to get stronger.
Until recently this was the only Police album in my collection, I splashed out of the Japan version of the The Studio Recordings box set, to which I am just about to dive into.
Every Breath You Take https://youtu.be/OMOGaugKpzs
King Of Pain https://youtu.be/yuOPRfq-q6U
Wrapped Around Your Finger https://youtu.be/hWh5ilLBs-k
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I can't really comment on The Police, but all their hits are great. Wrapped Around Your Finger might be my fav that I've heard. That song is amazing.
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I can't really comment on The Police, but all their hits are great. Wrapped Around Your Finger might be my fav that I've heard. That song is amazing.
Follow the link in my post to that song, the live version is amazing.
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Miss Gradenko is the best song SC wrote for the band.
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The Police are on the list of bands that I have always rated very highly in terms of songwriting/musicianship but never spent much time listening to. The one childhood memory I have is that I would always fast forward to the "heavy bit" in EBYT ...................."Since you've gone............"
As a guitarist Andy Summers would be quite under rated - he gets props for playing that Message In A Bottle thing for the whole song :lol
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The Police are on the list of bands that I have always rated very highly in terms of songwriting/musicianship but never spent much time listening to.
Same. Much respect to the band. It's not that I don't like them. I just don't like listening to them. ;D
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I love The Police and this is my favorite, closely followed by Regatta De Blanc. Top-notch musicianship, I especially like the drumming and the way the drums sound. Crisp and clear and groovy.
Every Breath You Take is seriously overplayed (and I don't think it was that great to begin with) but Synchronicity I and II, Miss Gradenko, Walking In Your Footsteps, King Of Pain, Tea In The Sahara are all stellar songs. :metal :metal :metal Even Mother works for me in its craziness.
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Not a fan of The Police, but, I've never heard a full album. Will get to this one and report back.
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Agree with PoA here, the John Payne era is sadly overlooked by many, but there are some glorious albums made mainly by messers Downes and Payne.
Count me as a fan of the Payne era. It’s a different band but quality
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Synchronicity is the missing 80's Rush album. :hat
My favorite of The Police records by far. Their songwriting goes to another level here from their previous records. If it wasn't for Mother, this would be a 5 star, perfect album.
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I actually like Mother.
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my favourite Police album (that one and Ghost In The Machine, although I love them all, there will be an installment about them and all their albums on my thread as well. Btw, you should have bought this one here: https://www.amazon.com/Message-Box-Police/dp/B000002G23/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_de_DE=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=16O0OL34Y5NRI&keywords=the+police+message+in+a+box&qid=1578431340&s=music&sprefix=the+police+mess%2Cpopular%2C150&sr=1-1 as this is the only box set that is nearly complete. Sorry I didn't tell you earlier. Sounds better too IMHO)
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I know about Message In A Box, I could have bought that years ago when it came out.
I prefer the one album per CD and the Japan SHM-CD box set was only US$7 more than the price in your link
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I know about Message In A Box, I could have bought that years ago when it came out.
I prefer the one album per CD and the Japan SHM-CD box set was only US$7 more than the price in your link
Bumpity bump, bump, bump.
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I know about Message In A Box, I could have bought that years ago when it came out.
I prefer the one album per CD and the Japan SHM-CD box set was only US$7 more than the price in your link
Bumpity bump, bump, bump.
:corn
:soon: ?
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Yup I know, I know time to get this going again...
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I got the Message in a Box set when it came out. What's great is all the demos & rarities that are included.
"Fallout" with Copeland on guitar and original GTRist Henri Padovani on lead.
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39.
Judas Priest
Defenders Of The Faith
Metal
CBS Records 1984
(https://img.discogs.com/nMqWAcAiarKdxi8pkCyz6u4szf8=/fit-in/600x599/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-372312-1590319668-5649.jpeg.jpg)
1 Freewheel Burning 4:24
2.Jawbreaker 3:26
3. Rock Hard Ride Free 5:34
4. The Sentinel 5:04
5. Love Bites 4:47
6. Eat Me Alive 3:34
7. Some Heads Are Gonna Roll 4:05
8. Night Comes Down 3:58
9. Heavy Duty 2:25
10. Defenders Of The Faith
Band line up
Rob Halford – vocals
K. K. Downing – guitars
Glenn Tipton – guitars
Ian Hill – bass
Dave Holland – drums
1984 was my year of discovery for metal, I was in high school hanging out with a load of fellow metal heads and this album dropped.
While I orginally owned this on cassette tape, which I actually wore out through playing over and over again.
After ignoring Priest for many years, I lost interest when Rob Halford left the band, but after reading his new book 'Confess' I decided to re-boot the JP catalogue
going back and re-discovering all those great albums.
With so many strong albums, I chose this one for two reasons, no filler and the aggressive music and lyrics.
That said the albums production does sound a little dated and the drums are either triggered or most likely programmed.
Halford has admitted that some of his lyrics during his alcohol and drug fuelled days are not the best, but on here he literally goes for the throat
with some face tearing in your face ditties, that over the years have revealed themselves as Halfords sexuality came out ('Jawbreaker' and 'Eat Me Alive')
Interesting that this album also contains somewhat of a rarity in JP repertoire, ballad in 'Night Comes Down' which really shows how good Rob's voice is.
Katatonia would cover this song many years later on their 'Fall Of Hearts' album.
For it's time and even now to an extant, this is a seriously heavy record, but still has great melodies and for me at least has stood the test of time.
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Not a Priest fan in the least, but I gotta say their album art certainly stands out from the rest of the crowd. Very unique style.
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Happy to see this thread again.
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Love this album - one of my very fav Priest records. Definitely has stood the test of time, I still listen to it regularly. I kind of also think for people that aren't Priest fans but want to give Priest a go, it is a good album to start with. A classic.
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Top 3 Priest album. It's almost perfect. Night Comes Down is classic in my book and so underrated. The rest of the album just rips.
So happy to see this continuing Gaz.
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JP fell into that category of bands that was just a little bit *too* heavy for my tastes in the mid-80s, and then I never went back to discover them. I'm mostly an A-list and B-list 'best-of' fan for them... I just don't have the wherewithal to go back and hitup their entire discog. Several DTFrs contributed to helping me put together a 35-song best-of playlist. So that's about where I sit with them - six tracks coming from this album.
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JP fell into that category of bands that was just a little bit *too* heavy for my tastes in the mid-80s, and then I never went back to discover them. I'm mostly an A-list and B-list 'best-of' fan for them... I just don't have the wherewithal to go back and hitup their entire discog. Several DTFrs contributed to helping me put together a 35-song best-of playlist. So that's about where I sit with them - six tracks coming from this album.
6? C'mon man, you might as well hit the other four! That's like watching all the Marvel movies but calling it quits right after Black Panther. :P
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JP fell into that category of bands that was just a little bit *too* heavy for my tastes in the mid-80s, and then I never went back to discover them. I'm mostly an A-list and B-list 'best-of' fan for them... I just don't have the wherewithal to go back and hitup their entire discog. Several DTFrs contributed to helping me put together a 35-song best-of playlist. So that's about where I sit with them - six tracks coming from this album.
6 tracks must mean it's a damn fine album.
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JP fell into that category of bands that was just a little bit *too* heavy for my tastes in the mid-80s, and then I never went back to discover them. I'm mostly an A-list and B-list 'best-of' fan for them... I just don't have the wherewithal to go back and hitup their entire discog. Several DTFrs contributed to helping me put together a 35-song best-of playlist. So that's about where I sit with them - six tracks coming from this album.
6 tracks must mean it's a damn fine album.
Exactly that. And yes, I have listened to the whole album, and it's very good. But as I said, I wasn't hitting the whole discog start-to-finish. I have listened to full JP albums for certain, but when it comes to what I saved and go back to, it's the 'best-of' list the Hard Rock / Classic Metal crew gave me.
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JP fell into that category of bands that was just a little bit *too* heavy for my tastes in the mid-80s, and then I never went back to discover them. I'm mostly an A-list and B-list 'best-of' fan for them... I just don't have the wherewithal to go back and hitup their entire discog. Several DTFrs contributed to helping me put together a 35-song best-of playlist. So that's about where I sit with them - six tracks coming from this album.
6 tracks must mean it's a damn fine album.
Exactly that. And yes, I have listened to the whole album, and it's very good. But as I said, I wasn't hitting the whole discog start-to-finish. I have listened to full JP albums for certain, but when it comes to what I saved and go back to, it's the 'best-of' list the Hard Rock / Classic Metal crew gave me.
Priest are a band that have a lot of different sounding albums so unless you are a diehard fan, it's easy to see people just picking particular albums over some others. Liking certain albums from them doesn't mean you'd like everything they have done kind of thing.
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Top 3 Priest album. It's almost perfect.
So happy to see this continuing Gaz.
YES :metal :metal
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Thanks for the kind words, the rest will follow shortly, hope to do at least one per week :yarr
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Thanks for the kind words, the rest will follow shortly, hope to do at least one per week :yarr
Don't worry, you'll be hearing about it if you don't. :tup
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The Sentinel alone makes this a great album.
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Thanks for the kind words, the rest will follow shortly, hope to do at least one per week :yarr
Hopefully they'll be consecutive weeks. ;D
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I was a pretty hard core Priest fan in high school - first concert, we played "Living After Midnight" in my high school band - but I fell out of favor with them after Turbo and Painkiller. They didn' t really hold up over time for me; so much of the 80's metal (Priest, Scorpions) seemed so cheesy and contrived after delving into prog and later, prog metal (like Dream Theater). But I've since gone back, and there's a lot of good stuff in that catalogue and this is one of them. I'm not sure there's one skippable song on this record; sometimes I'll brush over "Freewheel Burning", because of all the falsetto singing, and "Defenders Of The Faith" because I'm sort of past "pledging allegiance to metal flag" bullcrap. But Sentinel is an AMAZING track, and may be my favorite Priest song ever. This is one of the recotds I go back to more than most in the catalogue, and has stood the test of time pretty well.
(Honestly, it's almost embarrassing how much of the lyrical content went right past me at that time. And I was a teenage boy!!!)
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I was a pretty hard core Priest fan in high school - first concert, we played "Living After Midnight" in my high school band - but I fell out of favor with them after Turbo and Painkiller. They didn' t really hold up over time for me; so much of the 80's metal (Priest, Scorpions) seemed so cheesy and contrived after delving into prog and later, prog metal (like Dream Theater). But I've since gone back, and there's a lot of good stuff in that catalogue and this is one of them. I'm not sure there's one skippable song on this record; sometimes I'll brush over "Freewheel Burning", because of all the falsetto singing, and "Defenders Of The Faith" because I'm sort of past "pledging allegiance to metal flag" bullcrap. But Sentinel is an AMAZING track, and may be my favorite Priest song ever. This is one of the recotds I go back to more than most in the catalogue, and has stood the test of time pretty well.
(Honestly, it's almost embarrassing how much of the lyrical content went right past me at that time. And I was a teenage boy!!!)
Agree. The only blemish on this album is Heavy Duty/DOTF. It's an underwhelming closer.
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Top 3 Priest album. It's almost perfect. Night Comes Down is classic in my book and so underrated. The rest of the album just rips.
So happy to see this continuing Gaz.
What are your other 2 in the top 3?
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Top 3 Priest album. It's almost perfect. Night Comes Down is classic in my book and so underrated. The rest of the album just rips.
So happy to see this continuing Gaz.
What are your other 2 in the top 3?
Painkiller and Jugulator.
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See I skew older; my top three might be Stained Class, Point Of Entry (you read that right) and Defenders Of The Faith. Screaming may be in there too (I love that record, even though it has "the hit").
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I go Screaming, Defenders, and Painkiller.
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I need to revisit Painkiller.
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I need to revisit Painkiller.
You should've never unvisited it. ;D
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I need to revisit Painkiller.
You should've never unvisited it. ;D
:metal
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I'm not really familiar at all with any of the pre British Steel albums, which I am in the process of rectifying.
So my current top 3 would be:
1. Defenders
2. Turbo (no laughing please!)
3. Firepower
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Roast me but, I always thought Screaming was overrated.
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I need to revisit Painkiller.
You should've never unvisited it. ;D
This.
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Roast me but, I always thought Screaming was overrated.
Me too, but it had the 'hit' that broke them in the USA.
That said it does has some very strong material, but a couple of not-so-good songs too.
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Roast me but, I always thought Screaming was overrated.
Me too, but it had the 'hit' that broke them in the USA.
That said it does has some very strong material, but a couple of not-so-good songs too.
Even songs like Riding, Bloodstone and the title track I never really took to.
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My top three is Nostradamus, Sad Wings of Destiny and Painkiller I guess. Defenders is a fine album though.
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Roast me but, I always thought Screaming was overrated.
Me too, but it had the 'hit' that broke them in the USA.
That said it does has some very strong material, but a couple of not-so-good songs too.
it would make my top four for Electric Eye and Devil's Child alone. Devil's Child might be my favorite Priest tune. That is everything I love about Judas Priest in four minutes and however many seconds. I'm also a fan of Fever. It's also the first Priest album I got into so there's some nostalgia involved.
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Devil's Child might be my favorite Priest tune.
Of course it would. :lol
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Devil's Child might be my favorite Priest tune.
Of course it would. :lol
Let me guess: TAC's worst song on the album!
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Devil's Child might be my favorite Priest tune.
Of course it would. :lol
Let me guess: TAC's worst song on the album!
It's actually above Pain And Pleasure.
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Devil's Child might be my favorite Priest tune.
Of course it would. :lol
Let me guess: TAC's worst song on the album!
It's actually above Pain And Pleasure.
Another great song... :) :) :) :)
(I'm kidding; not my favorite.)
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My top three is Nostradamus, Sad Wings of Destiny and Painkiller I guess. Defenders is a fine album though.
A man after my own heart! :metal
Nostradamus is so underrated!
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Devil's Child might be my favorite Priest tune.
Of course it would. :lol
Let me guess: TAC's worst song on the album!
It's actually above Pain And Pleasure.
Another great song... :) :) :) :)
(I'm kidding; not my favorite.)
If we are still be controversial, (Take These) Chains might be top 3 for me on the album. Also, top 5 would be Prisoner of Your Eyes.
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My top three is Nostradamus, Sad Wings of Destiny and Painkiller I guess. Defenders is a fine album though.
That's as out there as my Jugulator pick, nice. I HATED this album when it was released, but it's aged really well and I really appreciate the hell out of it now. There's some really amazing tunes on here. I'd probably still take my cut down single cd version, but can appreciate the pick.
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So I listened to Painkiller today... eh. starts a little slow, but ends strong. I know it's the age of CDs, but basically you can have Side A, but I like Side B.
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Starts a little slow?? :lol
Stadler!!
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Starts a little slow?? :lol
Stadler!!
That's irony. It's all Travis' double bass onslaught until Night Crawler. Once he starts playing normal drums, the songs get good.
(I'm kidding. Sort of.)
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Normal drums? :lol
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Normal drums? :lol
(https://townsquare.media/site/295/files/2018/01/GettyImages-652866621.jpg)
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Ahhh! Gotcha. :lol
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Yep, that's pretty much it.
I happened to like Dave Holland's drumming; I just thought some of the drums, especially on the first part of the record, were very obtrusive. I'm not a huge "double bass" fan, so it just seemed overwhelming.
-
It was deeply needed, honestly.
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Holland held Priest back for a long time if you ask me.
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38.
Barren Earth
Cure Of The Red River
Progressive Metal
Peaceville Records 2010
(https://img.discogs.com/c3kkrkm4rOhURH5jWq2rUbJ0P14=/fit-in/480x480/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-2204999-1269712716.jpeg.jpg)
1 Curse Of The Red River 7:52
2 Our Twilight 5:27
3 Forlorn Waves 4:39
4 Flicker 6:42
5 The Leer 4:56
6 The Ritual Of Dawn 6:34
7 Ere All Perish 5:54
8 Cold Earth Chamber 5:34
9 Deserted Morrows 6:50
Band line up
Kasper Mårtenson – keyboards, backing vocals (ex Amorphis)
Mikko Kotamäki – lead vocals (Swallow The Sun, Shamrain)
Sami Yli-Sirniö – lead guitar, backing vocals (Kreator)
Janne Perttilä – rhythm guitar, backing vocals (Moonsorrow)
Olli-Pekka Laine – bass, backing vocals (Amorphis)
Marko Tarvonen – drums (Moonsorrow, October Falls)
Mention the word 'supergroup' and immediately I think of hype, high expectations and disappointment.
Barren Earth came without the hype and any kind of serious expectations, but their debut album really did deliver and even now when I listen I am still floored by the song writing
arrangements and the stellar musicianship.
So what do we get here? With the names and the bands associated with them you might expect a full on extreme metal orgy of heaviness and brutality.
But what you actually get is a full on 1970's inspired blast of progressive rock at it's heaviest forged with some modern extreme vocals.
The vocals are probably 60/40 death style, with the cleans coming across in many places all 1960's British physcadelic pop style.
The music is a glorius combination of prog, death, folk, physcadelic and some shiny metallic bits just to keep things a little on the heavy side.
Barren Earth manage to mix all this up quite nicely and with plenty of melody
If you don't mind the growling vocals, then this is easily a serious listen for anyone who likes any kind of progressive rock or metal.
Sadly this line up would only record one more album together ('The Devil's Resolve') that didn't quite match this one. They are still active all be it
with a new singer and keyboardist.
Bio https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barren_Earth
Interview https://youtu.be/0BT0-ZMqbac
The Leer https://youtu.be/dGQhgTD1ffg
Flicker https://youtu.be/UwlF2KCvdyg
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Never heard if this band or this record, but the description sounds interesting. Seems like they are on spotify, so I will give this a try.
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I've heard The Complex of Cages by this band (thanks to Luoto I think) and I enjoyed it. I'll give this one a spin.
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I should check this one out - I really like a few songs on The Devil's Resolve but I haven't explored the band much further.
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Normal drums? :lol
(https://townsquare.media/site/295/files/2018/01/GettyImages-652866621.jpg)
Yeah the drums on Ram It Down are programmed and I strongly suspect that Defenders and Turbo also are.
Dave was a decent enough drummer, but when the band changed to a harder sound, I think he was caught a little short.
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Oh wow, I saw these guys about a year after this album came out. They were on tour with Ensiferum and Finntroll who were co-headlining; I have a pic of me with most of Ensiferum before the gig started. Barren Earth ruled, I remember their set reeked of heavy Opeth, which was a great surprise, but I never followed up on them. I'll check this one out.
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Was sent a song from these guys in a roulette. Was damn good. Never got around to checking them out though.
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Normal drums? :lol
Yeah the drums on Ram It Down are programmed and I strongly suspect that Defenders and Turbo also are.
Dave was a decent enough drummer, but when the band changed to a harder sound, I think he was caught a little short.
And that's part of it; I don't necessarily prefer the harder sound. I LOVE Rob's voice, but when he sings, not screams.
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Gave that Barren Earth a listen on spotify. Sounds really good but it is clear that they have listened to Opeth, a lot of Opeth. ;)
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I really liked the first Barren Earth album. I tried the second one, but the songwriting didn't impress me as much, and then I kinda got out of it. I should revisit.
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Defenders is probably my favourite Priest studio album.
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37.
Black Sabbath
Heaven and Hell
Heavy Metal
Vertigo Records 1980
(https://img.discogs.com/6wAo58f4Emi2EOY7FUmjsQvMz1c=/fit-in/599x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-1660926-1423691268-7617.jpeg.jpg)
1 Neon Knights 3:44
2 Children Of The Sea 5:33
3 Lady Evil 4:23
4 Heaven And Hell 6:55
5 Wishing Well 4:04
6 Die Young 4:36
7 Walk Away 4:18
8 Lonely Is The Word 5:47
Band line up
Toni Iommi - Guitar
Ronnie James Dio - Vocals
Bill Wared - Drums
Geezer Buttler - Bass
I really don't know what to say about this album that has not already been said.
But here goes, my introduction to Sabbath was in 1982/83 with someone in my circle of friends had the 'Live Evil' 2LP set. To which I borrowed, made a copy on to cassette
and was instantly hooked. The Ozzy era songs were new to me I'd never heard Ozzy sing them, so for me RJD was the voice of Sabbath, always will be and probably the reason I don't like any of the Ozzy era albums.
Now this album is 40 years old, to my ears does not sound dated at all, my only version is 1987 German pressing of the CD, I haven't bothered with any remasters released over the years.
I regard 5 of the albums 8 songs as classic Sabbath that would stand up against anything that they have ever done.
Dio's powerful voice and Iommi's riffs drive these songs into any headbangers heart and soul, if I were to choose just one album as an epitome of what heavy metal is, then would be it.
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As you said Gaz, there's nothing that hasn't already been said about this album so...... :metal
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Even the other 3 lesser tracks are still worthwhile. I always really enjoyed Wishing Well a lot and Lady Evil is placed perfectly for the type of song it is. Walk Away is the only real slight blip, however I don't think I've ever skipped it.
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Iconic album. Period.
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36.
Badlands
Badlands
Hard Rock
Atlantic Records 1989
(https://img.discogs.com/F1-oqBwX89XgHrxNE7sSf-jA4RQ=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-3054415-1313560817.jpeg.jpg)
1 High Wire 3:44
2 Dreams In The Dark 3:29
3 Jade's Song 1:22
4 Winter's Call 5:35
5 Dancing On The Edge 3:27
6 Streets Cry Freedom 6:09
7 Hard Driver 4:49
8 Rumblin' Train 5:45
9 Devil's Stomp 4:54
10 Seasons 6:19
Bonus Track
11 Ball And Chain 4:12
Band line up
Jake E Lee - Guitar
Ray Gillen - Vocals
Eric Singer - Drums
Greg Chaisson - Bass
Jake had made his name from Ozzy and Ray was briefly in Sabbath, the sound was organic hard rock, with it's roots firmly planted in the 1970's.
Throw in Eric Singer who was with Gary Moore/Black Sabbath/Alice Cooper and later Kiss and an unknown bassist Badlands self titled debut was a breath of fresh air when it came out in 1989.
The 'glam' sound that Jake had with Ozzy was gone, at the height of 'hair metal' this record was almost an anti-80's metal album.
The almost magical combination of Lee's blues based hard riffs, with Ray's smoke dripped wails and a thunderous rhythm section, all adds up to quite a stunning debut album.
This album is just a solid slab of hard rock, with 10 killer tracks here, unfortunately Gillen's off-stage antics have led to this album not being available anymore (Streaming or physical product) even the remaster on Rock Candy Records from 2010 was pulled from shelves just weeks after release due to the threat of legal action.
Yet another album that has aged very well, not just the killer songs, but the mix and production still hits hard, it almost sounds so raw that the band are playing in the next door neighbour's garage.
Of course you can find this album in full illegally on You Tube, but it's not the same as owning the CD.
Full in depth interview with Jake about Badlands and his Ozzy years:
https://deandelray.libsyn.com/podcast?search=Jake+E+lee&Submit=Search+
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Never heard of this... gonna check it out!
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This is a really good album. I bought it when it came out, but unfortunately I didn't really care for it. It wasn't really what I was into, and I was a bit disappointed. That said, it has aged really well. Jake sounds awesome. I would also want to say that other than Badlands, there was far too little music involving Jake E. Lee over the years.
Ray Gillen is fucking amazing on this album. Holy shit!!!
I actually saw them on this tour on August 13, 1989. They were third on the bill of the Tesla/Great White tour.
I wasn't really a fan of the material, but I thought they were cool.
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Likes this record a lot. I like their second as well. Los of good stuff on here.
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One of the records I heard a lot about but for some unknown reason never checked out. Should do it now.
Edit: It's not on spotify :sad:
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I'm sure I have this one on cd. I always enjoyed this band but I didn't listen to them all that much. I'll have to find the cd.
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Wow! Badlands and Heaven and Hell back to back!
Absolutely love both albums.
Badlands - this is just a classic. Anyone who hasn't checked this out should do so immediately. I was blown away by this album upon release and still listen to it regularly and it never disappoints. Gillen may have been a bit of a Plant clone but still a phenomenal talent and everything just clicks for the band on this album. Jake's guitar playing is awesome and the album is just chock full of great riffs and song writing. Great choice gazinwales.
As far as Heaven and Hell goes, not much more I can add to this one. Just a brilliant album.
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Geez, I missed heaven And Hell.
Yes, that made my Top 50 as well, closer to the Top 10 actually. I love that album. My favorite song on the album is Die Young.
I actually had it on 8-track, and even now when I listen to H&H (the song) I still somewhat expect it to change tracks in the middle.
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Even the other 3 lesser tracks are still worthwhile. I always really enjoyed Wishing Well a lot and Lady Evil is placed perfectly for the type of song it is. Walk Away is the only real slight blip, however I don't think I've ever skipped it.
HAHA. I won't say it's the "best" song on the album, but Walk Away is probably my personal favorite on the record. I can't believe that this album is as strong as it is. Meaning, I was an Ozzy guy, and I LOVED Blizzard and Diary, so this always got sort of "second fiddle", but looking back, it's solid top to bottom. "Neon Knights" is sort of the example you use when someone asks "what do you look for in an album opener?"
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This is a really good album. I bought it when it came out, but unfortunately I didn't really care for it. It wasn't really what I was into, and I was a bit disappointed. That said, it has aged really well. Jake sounds awesome. I would also want to say that other than Badlands, there was far too little music involving Jake E. Lee over the years.
Ray Gillen is fucking amazing on this album. Holy shit!!!
I actually saw them on this tour on August 13, 1989. They were third on the bill of the Tesla/Great White tour.
I wasn't really a fan of the material, but I thought they were cool.
See, I listened to it once or twice back in the day, and didn't care for it. I should probably give it a relisten.
What's the nonsense with Gillen? I tried looking it up and didnt' get anything. I know there was some shit with Paul O'Neill and Gillen's sickness; has that led to this not being available?
I get the love for Jake E. Lee, he's a good player, and Eddie Trunk has been pimping him for years because he's a "nice guy" and Eddie hates Sharon. But as someone who's not a fanboy, at some point you have to look at the bigger picture. He was in Mickey Ratt and either was kicked or bailed before they hit it big as "Ratt". He joined Dio and didn't get along with Dio, so was dumped in favor of Viv Campbell. He joined Ozzy, but clashed with Oz/Sharon and was dumped (though he claims he never saw it coming). He formed Badlands, but had issues with Paul O'Neill, and his music is not readily available. In and out of other things over the years... one just has to wonder if it's really everyone else, or just him?
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I am no Jake fan boy at all, but I would suggest listening to the interview link I posted, it might put a few things to rest.
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What's the nonsense with Gillen? I tried looking it up and didnt' get anything. I know there was some shit with Paul O'Neill and Gillen's sickness; has that led to this not being available?
If I remember correctly, Ray had AIDS and passed it along to several people because he didn't tell them he was infected. I think there are lawsuits that pretty much make it impossible for the Badlands albums to ever be sold again.
Something like that.
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Even the other 3 lesser tracks are still worthwhile. I always really enjoyed Wishing Well a lot and Lady Evil is placed perfectly for the type of song it is. Walk Away is the only real slight blip, however I don't think I've ever skipped it.
HAHA. I won't say it's the "best" song on the album, but Walk Away is probably my personal favorite on the record.
Of course it F'n is! :lol What's the best? Lady Evil??
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Even the other 3 lesser tracks are still worthwhile. I always really enjoyed Wishing Well a lot and Lady Evil is placed perfectly for the type of song it is. Walk Away is the only real slight blip, however I don't think I've ever skipped it.
HAHA. I won't say it's the "best" song on the album, but Walk Away is probably my personal favorite on the record. I can't believe that this album is as strong as it is. Meaning, I was an Ozzy guy, and I LOVED Blizzard and Diary, so this always got sort of "second fiddle", but looking back, it's solid top to bottom. "Neon Knights" is sort of the example you use when someone asks "what do you look for in an album opener?"
Wait, Walk Away is your fav? :o
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Of course it F'n is! :lol What's the best? Lady Evil??
AND
Wait, Walk Away is your fav? :o
Yeah, I love Walk Away. I love that guitar riff. The best song? Probably... Children Of The Sea, or Heaven And Hell. Big fan of Die Young as well. Only song I don't spend a lot of time with is "Lonely Is The Word".
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Half of this album is incredible. Great playing and Ray was a helluva singer.
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35.
Fates Warning
A Pleasant Shade Of Gray
Progressive Metal
Metal Blade Records 1997
(https://img.discogs.com/HdHRxBKHVeHAboem5bUQRZtVdY4=/fit-in/600x591/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-2446589-1559729625-2281.jpeg.jpg)
A Pleasant Shade Of Gray 55:46
Part I 1:53
Part II 3:25
Part III 3:53
Part IV 4:26
Part V 5:24
Part VI 7:28
Part VII 4:51
Part VIII 3:31
Part IX 4:45
Part X 1:19
Part XI 3:34
Part XII 9:08
Band line up
Ray Alder – vocals
Jim Matheos – guitar, guitar synth
Mark Zonder – drums
Joey Vera – bass
Kevin Moore – keyboards
The mere mention of this album often divides the Fates Warning fan base, this is definitely one of those love or hate album's. There is no in-between what-so-ever with this
record, it seems any talk of APSOG always is a launch pad for some feisty debates.
I love concept album's full stop, so when this came out in 1997 I was almost instantly hooked by the dark atmospheric sound, I seem to remember being a casual fan of the band, nothing they had done previously hit me as hard as this did.
With just 'one' song divided into 12 parts there is lots to digest here, many layers and sounds to absorb, layers to pick away and of course some brilliant music.
The length of 55 minutes seems spot on, every second of music and vocals seems to be almost a perfect mix, the lyrics often taking you to a dark and sinister place.
This record should be higher in my top 50, but I'm throwing it in here as it's one of my favourite concept albums and progressive metal albums in my quite vast collection of music.
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Neither love nor hate this record, so there is an in-between. ;)
I think it's good but I don't like every part of it. Some parts just drag along. Put the essence of this in a 30-minute song. Put one or two other good songs on the record, that fit the theme and you have a stellar record, imo. But as it is it's good but not great.
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I love FW, but always struggled with this one. I haven't tried it for a while though and my love for long songs has grown in that time so might be worth another crack.
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I love FW, but always struggled with this one. I haven't tried it for a while though and my love for long songs has grown in that time so might be worth another crack.
Ditto for me. I’ll fire it up later today. This was my intro to FW back in the early 2000s, as I too was a concept album junkie. But I was very WTF with this one at the time, and it’s been a long long time since I revisited it.
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Yep, love FW but this album is far from a favourite. Have tried many, many times to love it but just can't....maybe I'll give it another go..
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I love FW, but always struggled with this one. I haven't tried it for a while though and my love for long songs has grown in that time so might be worth another crack.
Ditto for me. I’ll fire it up later today. This was my intro to FW back in the early 2000s, as I too was a concept album junkie. But I was very WTF with this one at the time, and it’s been a long long time since I revisited it.
Yeah, this album has always sat near the bottom of my Fates Warning list.
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Love APSOG. I get the divisiveness of it, but to me it’s one of their best.
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This album gets fellated all over DTF, but poor Gaz puts the thing in his Top 50 and gets nothing but grief. :lol
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This album gets fellated all over DTF, but poor Gaz puts the thing in his Top 50 and gets nothing but grief. :lol
I thought that same thing truthfully after a couple posts after mine. :lol
I'll try and find some time to try this one again though.
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Well yes, I also feel for Gaz on this one. IMO - 2 absolutely awesome albums proceeded this one and I even gave A Pleasant Shade of Grey a listen yesterday but sorry, still can't fully grasp the vibe. Just something missing from it.
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I'm kinda with Kwiji here. Can't say I adored it, but it didn't suck. It's just there. A little to dreary and melancholic for my liking.
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I'm going to find my copy tonight. I'm determined.
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All good here, I knew this would start some banter, and I fully expect a few more choices to be just as polarising :blush
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All good here, I knew this would start some banter, and I fully expect a few more choices to be just as polarising :blush
Can't wait.
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All good here, I knew this would start some banter, and I fully expect a few more choices to be just as polarising :blush
I'm now expecting some Blaze-era Iron Maiden.
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All good here, I knew this would start some banter, and I fully expect a few more choices to be just as polarising :blush
I'm now expecting some Blaze-era Iron Maiden.
I was thinking Prototype or Cold Lake from Celtic Frost :lol
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Or VHIII, The Elder, Q2K...
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Or VHIII, The Elder, Q2K...
HAHAHA, that's funny, how you lumped in The Elder with those other records. ;) :) :) :) :)
(I'm a big fan of The Elder).
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So am I, it's my fave Kiss record, but I know it's hated by many :metal
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I gave APSOG a spin yesterday and I actually really enjoyed it. This was not how I remembered it at all. Love the atmosphere and darker undertones of it. It flew by too so no issue with the length. It's actually a great warm up for Disconnected too. Keen to spin it again.
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34.
Carcass
Heartwork
Melodic Death Metal
Earache Records 1993
(https://img.discogs.com/VbVAhBmHq4bQHGZzsM8lZhWXU_E=/fit-in/600x596/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-3670209-1359418697-5161.jpeg.jpg)
1 Buried Dreams 3:59
2 Carnal Forge 3:55
3 No Love Lost 3:22
4 Heartwork 4:33
5 Embodiment 5:37
6 This Mortal Coil 3:50
7 Arbeit Macht Fleisch 4:22
8 Blind Bleeding The Blind 4:57
9 Doctrinal Expletives 3:39
10 Death Certificate 3:39
Band line up
Bill Steer – lead guitar
Ken Owen – drums
Jeff Walker – bass, vocals
Michael Amott – lead guitar
Heartwork is Carcass 4th studio album released in 1993, although I knew the name I'd never actually heard them until I popped this CD in my stereo all those years ago.
There was a lot of hype around this album, I think Kerrang! magazine were praising it to the rooftops, giving it 5/5, so naturally I was intrigued to find if this was really that good.
If 'Images and Words' is the progmetal blueprint and genre defining album, then this album is the record that launched the melodic death metal movement and to this day still stands tall looking down upon everything that has followed. Yes this album is that good!
What makes it so good then? The riffs, the songs, the melodies, the lyrics, the production? That's a big hell yeah to all of those elements that make's 'Heartwork' so special.
This album also changed my opinion on what would become 'extreme music'. Before this album I'd never in a million years listen to anything with such harsh vocals and something this so damned heavy. Did I mention the crushing riffs already?
The Steer/Arnott guitar combination is menacing at any given moment, Walker's deep low growl's are a perfect foil for those colossal riffs, all this combined with some almost elegant melodies.
Some 27 years old now, but this album just never gets old, the mix and production still sounds amazing to my ears, it's hasn't aged one day since 1993.
Even if you don't like death metal, can't stand growling vocals, you really owe it to yourself to check this out as a metal head to experience some truly stunning Heartwork!
Buried Dreams https://youtu.be/TUzHxs5AA6c
Heartwork https://youtu.be/ZpbpOgUybBM
No Love Lost https://youtu.be/SioElynZx5s
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Now this album on board with. Wonderful melodic death metal and indeed defined a genre.
Amott too. :metal
I actually haven't listened to this in a long time, should fix that.
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I actually haven't listened to this in a long time, should fix that.
I actually haven't listened to this ever, should fix that.
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I actually haven't listened to this in a long time, should fix that.
I actually haven't listened to this ever, should fix that.
I actually haven't listened to this ever, no need to fix anything. :lol
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I actually haven't listened to this in a long time, should fix that.
I actually haven't listened to this ever, should fix that.
I actually haven't listened to this ever, no need to fix anything. :lol
Yeah, it's much too manly for you mate. ;D
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I actually haven't listened to this in a long time, should fix that.
I actually haven't listened to this ever, should fix that.
Not sure if you'd fully dig the vocals, but the guitar work you should enjoy considering Amott worships Schenker.
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Not sure if you'd fully dig the vocals, but the guitar work you should enjoy considering Amott worships Schenker.
Just kistened to the first track, Buried Dreams on Spotify. Yeah, you can hear the influence in the solo.
Damn, Carnal Forge sounds like classic Flotsam & Jetsam! :metal
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I'm about to chuck it on too. :tup
Come on Chad, join in!!
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Actually, playing it now, these vocals should actually be right up Tim's alley.
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Just about to hit play myself, doing the weekly house cleaning to the ultimate death metal soundtrack :metal
BTW there are two songs not on that album from those sessions, 'This Is Your Life' and 'Rot'n'Roll' both are found on the 'The Heartwork EP'
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Actually, playing it now, these vocals should actually be right up Tim's alley.
Yeah, no issue here. They're not that bad.
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Just about to hit play myself, doing the weekly house cleaning to the ultimate death metal soundtrack :metal
BTW there are two songs not on that album from those sessions, 'This Is Your Life' and 'Rot'n'Roll' both are found on the 'Heartwork EP'
This is a real time listening party!!! :metal
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Actually, playing it now, these vocals should actually be right up Tim's alley.
Yeah, no issue here. They're not that bad.
As I said, haven't listened to it for a long time. I thought they were more 'death metal' style if you know what I mean.
Damn, that breakdown for Bill's solo in Carnal Forge is epic. Lots of Schuldiner sounds there.
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Now this is a great album. Awesome. It’s also why I love these lists as they have a tendency to bring up albums I have nearly forgotten about or haven’t listened to in a long time. I’ll also have to give this a spin.
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That mid tempo groove of No Love Lost is just too good.
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This is a pretty good vinyl rip of Heartwork, I have this FDR edition and it is an amazing sounding record.
https://youtu.be/JH1bcGpMAIg
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My edition is the 2008 dualdisc CD/DVD version with the bonus disc of demos. :metal
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There is so much early Soilwork in the sound of this album.
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My edition is the 2008 dualdisc CD/DVD version with the bonus disc of demos. :metal
Yes I have this one too, those demo's are great, also have the CD original pressing and the FDR vinyl, all sound great.
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This album is a perfect length too and consistent throughout. Amott and Steer were a great guitar duo too.
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I'm about to chuck it on too. :tup
Come on Chad, join in!!
Me, Jay and Paul will be fine hanging out in the other room, thankyouverymuch
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Kalmah's cover of 'This Mortal Coil'
https://youtu.be/BbV7chxgOac
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I actually haven't listened to this in a long time, should fix that.
I actually haven't listened to this ever, should fix that.
Me too :metal
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33.
Ark
Ark
Progressive Metal
Avalon (Japan) Records 1999
(https://img.discogs.com/kFyqI05qlPMjwWyKI7GjlWxUypM=/fit-in/600x607/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-4881338-1573684667-7749.jpeg.jpg)
1 Burning Down 5:26
2 Where The Winds Blow 5:06
3 The Hunchback Of Notre Dame 8:53
4 Singers At The World's Dawn 6:56
5 Mother Love 8:43
6 Center Avenue 5:54
7 Can't Let Go 9:44
Band line up
Drums, Percussion – John Macaluso
Guitar – Tore Østby
Keyboards – Trond Nagell Dahl
Vocals – Jørn Lande
Ark came along and blew me away with just about everything on this record. While the band only made two album's, this one along with the much more revered 'Burn The Sun'.
The voice of Jorn Lande, this was the first time I had heard him and I swear that I though it was David Coverdale singing these songs on more than a few occasion here.
The thing that gets mentioned a lot about this album is the sound, yes it is a little unusual or for better word, 'quirky'
It's that voice that to this day still hits me hard, Jorn does all the vocals on this record, including some that could be conceived as female (backing vocals).
But as we well know that it doesn't matter how good the voice is, if the material is up not to standard (Jorn solo career is a shining example of this) then everything else almost becomes irrelevant.
Ark while being labelled as progressive metal, really is prog in every way you look at it. JM drums in some ways could be perceived almost as a lead instrument, while the guitars of Tore
are varied and as individual as you'd expect from such a talented and varied player.
That said there are some strange songs here that I know will not appeal to everyone, but that's all part of the prog charm right?
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I
l o v e
this album
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I didn't give this one as much attention as it deserved. Burn the Sun was always the better of the two. I'll revisit this one also. I have this one on cd too.
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I've never heard this before, but I might check this out.
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This is an unexpected surprise for your top 50! I love Ark! :metal
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I haven't listened to this in ages.
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I have Burn the Sun but haven’t listened to it in ages. I have not heard this one.
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I have Burn the Sun but haven’t listened to it in ages. I have not heard this one.
It's nothing like Burn the Sun.
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32.
Richie Sambora
Stranger In This Town
Hard Rock
Mercury Records 1991
(https://img.discogs.com/FjeLGL6UM50grvFDXXkJczyTfJg=/fit-in/500x500/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-16434732-1607721412-8256.jpeg.jpg)
1 Rest In Peace 3:47
2 Church Of Desire 6:08
3 Stranger In This Town 6:15
4 Ballad Of Youth 3:52
5 One Light Burning 5:48
6 Mr. Bluesman 5:14
7 Rosie 4:49
8 River Of Love 5:06
9 Father Time 6:05
10 The Answer 5:07
Band line up
Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Lead Vocals – Richie Sambora
Bass Guitar, Chapman Stick [Stick] – Tony Levin
Drums, Percussion – Tico Torres
Keyboards - Various
When I first heard Richie sing at a Bon Jovi concert in 1986, I had no idea how strong his voice was, when his debut 'solo' album came out in 1991 he totally blew me away.
His talent in BJ was obvious, but just how good he was at (what I consider) his peak during this period was almost off the charts.
But this does not matter at all if the songs aren't so good (as his future albums would lean to) here he really delivers with strong songs, killer vocals and some pretty tasty, restrained
and very melodic guitars. He even gets Eric Clapton to play on the glorious 'Mr.Bluesman'.
But what this album has most is soul, Richie sings and plays his heart out, with only a couple of relatively 'commercial BJ type songs ('Ballad Of Youth' and 'Rosie') that I am sure the record label must have demanded at the time.
Highlights? Well too many the blissful 'Church Of Desire', an absolutely gut wrenching soulful vocal on 'One Light Burning' and almost the entire album, with perhaps just a couple of less than magical songs towards the end of the album.
For me this is the best thing RS has even released, that includes anything with Bon Jovi!
Surprisingly this has never been re-issued outside of Japan, I would have thought the label would want to cash in on various anniversary releases.
Of the 5 Japanese re-issues a new one came out December 2020 for a very cheap price that includes a killer cover of 'The Wind Cries Mary'.
One Light Burning https://youtu.be/WMJM7em_duk
Stranger In This Town https://youtu.be/M7w0U1kTFV0
Ballad Of Youth https://youtu.be/gv8ZaD_oFpE
Stranger In This Town/We All Sleep Alone https://youtu.be/0JpVlzVHeV0
Legendary Live Show 1992 (FM Quality Audio Only) https://youtu.be/t9pGou_EigM
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Haven't listened to this in a long time, but that one is a really strong record imo. And, maybe surprisingly, the slow songs work al lot better thatn the fast, rocking ones.
I wouldn't go as far and say it's better than all of Bon Jovi's records but it's certainly better than a lot of them.
Richie's second one (Undiscovered Soul) is also good imo, but since then I've heard nothing interesting from him or Bon Jovi.
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For some reason, I never knew he released solo material. I'll be checking this out later today.
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I have Burn the Sun but haven’t listened to it in ages. I have not heard this one.
It's nothing like Burn the Sun.
I've never hear this one but I just didn't get into Burn The Sun at all. Overrated for me.
And the Richie Sambora album is excellent. A couple of tracks drag it down, but so much great stuff on their, and he's got a very good bluesy voice.
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31.
Sonata Arctica
Ecliptica
Power Metal
Spinefarm Records 1999
(https://img.discogs.com/JSdGZkwdSmEjM5Drly2G02g37YU=/fit-in/600x595/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-647026-1529197331-9789.jpeg.jpg)
1 Blank File 4:05
2 My Land 4:37
3 8th Commandment 3:41
4 Replica 4:55
5 Kingdom For A Heart 3:51
6 FullMoon 5:08
7 Letter To Dana 6:00
8 UnOpened 3:43
9 Picturing The Past 3:36
10 Destruction Preventer 7:39
Band line up
Bass – Janne Kivilahti
Drums – Tommy Portimo
Guitar – Jani Liimatainen
Vocals, Keyboards – Tony Kakko
This is yet another album that brings back so many great memories of that time, the band before they had a record label had one of the best demo's I've ever heard 'FullMoon' that
contained four songs. Those songs were re-recorded and slightly re-arranged (to their detriment IMO) and would appear on this, Sonata Arctica's debut album.
What makes this album stand out above other Sonata albums that might have better songs and musicianship, is the energy the freshness and overall excitement of a new band hitting the scene head on with a smashing debut record. Sure they are and were strong comparisons to the mighty Stratovarius, but those are easily ignore once you hit play.
This debut album has many flaws, which I won't go into, but the positives far outweigh anything remotely negative about this. Sure the band are raw, the singers accent, the cheesy lyrics, the drumming isn't the best and the band's image, well lets just say they were described but some in their homeland media as looking like 'Finnish ice hockey players'.
I can't praise just one song in particular, they are all good. This is my go-to Sonata album when I need a kick or a burst of energy. Every songs here kills, there is just such an amazing energy here that is only found on this Sonata album. Perhaps the back end of the album is my favourite when the band are just on fire with a trio blistering foot tapping headbanging power metal delights.
The band foolishly re-recorded this album in 2014, I will not have a bar of it, totally unnecessary and I will not even give it the time of day.
My love affair with this band ended 10 or so years ago, their recent output is absolute tripe compared to this and the brilliance of their first four albums.
When Jani Liimatainen left the band, he was the heart and soul and they were never the dame without him.
Destruction Preventer
https://youtu.be/HUfOJK6weSs
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This is a brilliant power metal album and for a debut, it's incredible. My Land, Replica, Full Moon, so many awesome power metal tunes. Great pick.
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I should listen to, and like Sonata Arctica more than I do. I had a couple DTF'rs give me a best of (Evermind and Walrus/Katt). Nothing is bad, they're just another band that I didn't get in to soon enough, and now it would be a daunting task to go back and run thru their entire discography.
First track is starting off very nice though.
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This is far and away my favourite Sonata Arctica album! I'd hardly consider myself a super fan as until the last few years I only listened to the first four albums!
Ecliptica is so good. As you mentioned, the energy on this album really sets it apart. Man, I need to go listen, it's been a few years!
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Very enjoyable listen. I was somewhat multi-tasking while doing so. Nothing stood out immensely (good or bad), but this was some good shit.
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I'll try and give this a spin.
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I'll try and give this a spin.
Not enough growls for you.
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I'll try and give this a spin.
Not enough growls for you.
It gets my seal of approval.
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I have the re-recorded 2014 copy and man does it blow chunks :lol Tony didn't even bother with the dual melodies/harmonies. It's such a travesty, honestly, it feels like it all was recorded in one take.
The original album still kicks ass, though. Great pick.
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According to my Last.fm, I last listened to Ecliptica nearly a year ago. Gave it a good spin this afternoon and decided to rank the songs. This is what I got:
Blank File
8th Commandment
Replica
Kingdom for a Heart
My Land
Respect the Wilderness
Destruction Preventer
Fullmoon
Piercing the Past
Unopened
Letter to Dana
Top tier are amazing, second tier are really damn good and third tier are just fine.
I think for me this is a really front loaded album, where the majority of my favourites are in the first half. Still a great, great album.
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I'll try and give this a spin.
Not enough growls for you.
No, I’ve just never had an interest in Sonata Arctica.
Years ago I bought the live album with the wolf on it and it’s ok.
Then I got Unia. Nuff said.
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According to my Last.fm, I last listened to Ecliptica nearly a year ago. Gave it a good spin this afternoon and decided to rank the songs. This is what I got:
Blank File
8th Commandment
Replica
Kingdom for a Heart
My Land
Respect the Wilderness
Destruction Preventer
Fullmoon
Piercing the Past
Unopened
Letter to Dana
Top tier are amazing, second tier are really damn good and third tier are just fine.
I think for me this is a really front loaded album, where the majority of my favourites are in the first half. Still a great, great album.
I don't think Respect the Wilderness is on this album though, it's on Silence I think.
Also love Piercing the Past, I also really like Kingdom for a Hut and Bland File.
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I'll try and give this a spin.
Not enough growls for you.
No, I’ve just never had an interest in Sonata Arctica.
Years ago I bought the live album with the wolf on it and it’s ok.
Then I got Unia. Nuff said.
Tim, I hated Unia for seven years. I thought it was utter shit. The band was so good up until Unia and then this. I couldn't comprehend it.
I think Unia is one of their strongest albums now.
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According to my Last.fm, I last listened to Ecliptica nearly a year ago. Gave it a good spin this afternoon and decided to rank the songs. This is what I got:
Blank File
8th Commandment
Replica
Kingdom for a Heart
My Land
Respect the Wilderness
Destruction Preventer
Fullmoon
Piercing the Past
Unopened
Letter to Dana
Top tier are amazing, second tier are really damn good and third tier are just fine.
I think for me this is a really front loaded album, where the majority of my favourites are in the first half. Still a great, great album.
I don't think Respect the Wilderness is on this album though, it's on Silence I think.
Also love Piercing the Past, I also really like Kingdom for a Hut and Bland File.
:rollin
Bland File is my fave. But yea, I guess that was my brain auto correcting badly? You are indeed right about Respect the Wilderness. Somehow, over the years it has been put onto Ecliptica on my ipod, instead of Silence. Weird.
My statement about Ecliptica being front loaded is even more valid then!
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According to my Last.fm, I last listened to Ecliptica nearly a year ago. Gave it a good spin this afternoon and decided to rank the songs. This is what I got:
Blank File
8th Commandment
Replica
Kingdom for a Heart
My Land
Respect the Wilderness
Destruction Preventer
Fullmoon
Piercing the Past
Unopened
Letter to Dana
Top tier are amazing, second tier are really damn good and third tier are just fine.
I think for me this is a really front loaded album, where the majority of my favourites are in the first half. Still a great, great album.
I don't think Respect the Wilderness is on this album though, it's on Silence I think.
Also love Piercing the Past, I also really like Kingdom for a Hut and Bland File.
Respect is the Japan bonus track on Silence.
Auto correct is a bitch eh?
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I have the re-recorded 2014 copy and man does it blow chunks :lol Tony didn't even bother with the dual melodies/harmonies. It's such a travesty, honestly, it feels like it all was recorded in one take.
The original album still kicks ass, though. Great pick.
I'd never actually heard it until I was finishing up my post and I though I'd give it a shot, I lasted less than 30 seconds.
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Unia is my fav SA album. Well it was. I haven't listened to them in a wile so that might change on a revisit
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30.
Katatonia
Viva Emptiness
Depressive Rock
Peaceville Records 2003
(https://img.discogs.com/KtVDZ2WU0eRykEnxwvjj-GzE6cA=/fit-in/600x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-5199234-1388779983-8782.jpeg.jpg)
1 Ghost Of The Sun 4:07
2 Sleeper 4:08
3 Criminals 3:47
4 A Premonition 3:33
5 Will I Arrive 4:09
6 Burn The Remembrance 5:22
7 Wealth 4:22
8 One Year From Now 4:02
9 Walking By A Wire 3:32
10 Complicity 4:01
11 Evidence 4:36
12 Omerta 2:58
13 Inside The City Of Glass 4:08
Band line up
Bass – Mattias Norrman
Drums, Percussion – Daniel Liljekvist
Guitar – Fred Norrman
Guitar, Keyboards – Anders Nyström
Vocals, Guitar – Jonas Renkse
My introduction to Katatonia was via 'Tonight's Decision' album from 1999, I wasn't that impressed nor was I with it's follow up 'Last Fair Deal Gone Down'.
Perhaps the style and sound was new to me and it wasn't until this release, originally issued in 2003 that the band finally clicked with me.
I think it was the overall sound of this record, it has a certain rawness, a dark and sinister tone that the previous two releases might have had, but were not as present.
Whatever it was this album has a great flow, the songs all have a great synch about them, the heaviness, the sometimes bleak ambience and the more melodic parts all seems gel together extremely well.
So how do you describe Katatonia, are they metal, rock, goth, alternative, doom or even indie? Maybe a mix of all of those, but above else once they established there style and sound, they manage to sound like no one else.
Of course it was tough to pick just one Katatonia album, but if your new to the band, then this release is a pretty good starting point.
This was re-released in 2013, ten years on from the original issue, but it has a new mix, some newly recorded parts and an extra song.
Which version do I prefer? I'd pick both of them depending on my mood, they are only slightly different in truth, but the subtleties are quite present.
BTW the artwork courtesy of Travis Smith is stunning as you would expect from him!
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I'm a casual fan of Katatonia. Night is the New Day is by far my fav, but this one is pretty good. I'd have to revisit but some strong stuff on here.
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Love Katatonia and love this album. Good choice.
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I'm a casual fan of Katatonia. Night is the New Day is by far my fav, but this one is pretty good. I'd have to revisit but some strong stuff on here.
NITND came pretty close to making the list, it's very strong all round, but Viva is my go-to album for Katatonia, but then again so many others are great albums too.
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Great choice. :metal :metal :metal
This record and The Great Cold Distance, which I think is even better, are my go to Katatonia records. The rest of their discography is good but nothing grabs me like this one.
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For whatever unknown reason, TGCD has never fully clicked for me, while I like it, I never would put it anywhere near my top 5 Katatonia records.
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For whatever unknown reason, TGCD has never fully clicked for me, while I like it, I never would put it anywhere near my top 5 Katatonia records.
Agree.
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TGCD was my first real exposure to Katatonia, that probably plays into it why I like it so much.
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Where's Lethean and why hasn't he posted here yet?
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29.
Crimson Glory
Transcendence
Heavy Metal
Roadrunner Records 1989
(https://img.discogs.com/zhfk18Ux-Cj_DvPdEO3xl3N2MN4=/fit-in/600x594/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-409017-1465756602-2257.jpeg.jpg)
1 Lady Of Winter 4:00
2 Red Sharks 4:52
3 Painted Skies 5:16
4 Masque Of The Red Death 4:15
5 In Dark Places 7:03
6 Where Dragons Rule 5:07
7 Lonely 5:18
8 Burning Bridges 6:32
9 Eternal World 3:54
10 Transcendence 4:34
Band line up
Bass – Jeff Lords
Drums – Dana Burnell
Lead Guitar – Jon Drenning
Rhythm Guitar – Ben Jackson
Vocals – Midnight
Ah this album brings back so many good memories of the golden era of metal in the 1980's.
It was a cold winter's day in Weston-supa-Mare, England, I was visiting relatives and I went into 'Ourprice' music shop and bought this LP for 9.99UKP.
Though I wouldn't be able to play the record for a few weeks until I returned home to Australia, I remember the wait to hear this being rather longer than it actually was.
So what's makes this album so special? One word Midnight! The legendary singer who's distinct high pitched vocals were a trademark of Crimson Glory's first two albums.
While the self titled CG debut album was a solid if not too spectacular effort, nothing could prepare me for what would come next in 'Transcendence'.
Arguably Midnight's finest hour (well 51 minutes to be precise) this album has stood the test of time in nearly all aspects.
The album's sound does have a slight '1980's' production style, with the drums quite high in the mix, but everything else is well balanced.
Compared to some of the horrible modern metal sounding albums, where the drums are almost inaudible, hearing them here is indeed a pleasure rather than a distraction.
But none of this would matter if the songs weren't strong and this album has 10 songs that are all top notch.
Of course there is the out and out headbangers 'Red Sharks' the lush sounds of 'Painted Skies' and the progressive tones of 'Painted Skies', this album has it all
with numerous different flavours added to keep this interesting and more to the point highlighting Midnight's extraordinary voice.
I almost forgot the band's image from this era, wearing those hideous masks, see the video's below, I guess it was an 1980's thing?
Sadly this would be Crimson Glory's one and only close-to-masterpiece album, the follow up was a complete disaster.
Live In Florida 1989 (Pro Shot) https://youtu.be/vd9NaMEw5J8
Lonely https://youtu.be/BH3h0OS84tM
Painted Skies https://youtu.be/72C-P2pBnj0
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Excellent album. Yes, i admit I was drawn to it by the cover, but it's an excellent piece of early progressive metal.
Agree about it being by far their best but I have a soft spot for Strange & Beautiful, although the style was very different.
I guess the masks were just a bit to stand out and as I never saw them live or their video back in the day I didn't really care. And I'm a KISS fan so anything goes in that department I guess.
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Knew what album this was going to be from that thread title. Amazing metal album and there's nothing really weak here. I love Lonely too though, great crossover tune.
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Made my Top 50 too :tup :metal
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Transcendence is a brilliant album. I have it in both vinyl and CD format. It would probably make my top 50 too.
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28.
Deathstars
Gothic/Industrial Metal
Nuclear Blast Records 2006
(https://img.discogs.com/fZtfSMmNukc5yJR60tdlV1RQ6uc=/fit-in/582x576/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-2695581-1296924856.jpeg.jpg)
1 Tongues 3:43
2 Blitzkrieg Boom 4:04
3 Motherzone 4:06
4 Cyanide 3:54
5 The Greatest Fight On Earth 3:52
6 Play God 4:09
7 Trinity Fields 4:22
8 The Last Ammunition 4:06
9 Virtue To Vice 3:42
10 Death In Vogue 4:14
11 Termination Bliss 3:43
Band line up
Bass – Skinny
Drums – Bone W Machine
Guitar, Keyboards – Nightmare Industries
Vocals – Whiplasher Bernadotte
One look at the cover, the band name and song titles was enough to make me dislike this band instantly!.
But when this promo CD turned up in my mail in 2006 I had to listen to it, but already I was thinking this is gonna be absolute shite.
All my fears, preconceived notions and biasedness was instantly dismissed when I hit play and was unravelled by 'Tongues'.
The sheer force of the band's sound, the deep vocals of Andreas Bergh, the melodies got me instantly hooked.
But once you strip away all the glitz, the image, the big budget video's and everything else what your left with is an album of brilliant songs.
Songs that have substance, depth and most of all they get stuck in your heads for days.
While the vocals are most definitely almost stereotypical goth (also some growls) the music is pretty commercial sounding, with to my ears loads of 1980's pop influences.
Of course there are some suitably low slung guitar riffs and atmospheric keyboards.
This album sticks out like a sore thumb in my collection, and specially in this top 50 it does look a little odd to say the least.
The band's other three albums, while having some great songs, do not come close to this.
Blitzkrieg https://youtu.be/zeWBD7zHG8o
Virtue To Vice https://youtu.be/xAdmfIrjKQQ
Cyanide https://youtu.be/Ly-jMFFjIbM
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Man, I remember this band but don't think I ever listened to any of their music. Saying that, I think I may have seen them in support of someone like HIM, years ago. I'll check out the songs you've linked :metal
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I remember Blitzkrieg from around that time and liking it.
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Just sampled Blitzkrieg.............Interesting.
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Man, I remember this band but don't think I ever listened to any of their music. Saying that, I think I may have seen them in support of someone like HIM, years ago. I'll check out the songs you've linked :metal
Checked these out and they are pretty similar to Rammstein, mainly in the vocal department, I guess. Pretty solid but not sure whether I'll dig any deeper.
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27.
Magnum
Wings Of Heaven
Hard Pomp Rock
Polydor Records 1988
(https://i.discogs.com/colEWowd9fCr8r2Q58UwR31hPVRyDZa8Gqh2yyOhqbg/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:593/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTY4Mzk5/NDEtMTQyNzcyNTE3/MS05Nzc3LmpwZWc.jpeg)
1. "Days of No Trust" 5:23
2. "Wild Swan" 6:15
3. "Start Talking Love" 3:36
4. "One Step Away" 4:39
5. "It Must Have Been Love" 5:16
6. "Different Worlds" 4:39
7. "Pray for the Day" 3:45
8. "Don't Wake the Lion (Too Old To Die Young)" 10:34
Band line up
Bob Catley — vocals
Tony Clarkin – guitar
Wally Lowe – bass guitar
Mark Stanway – keyboards
Mickey Barker – drums
There was a lot of hype around Magnum and this release back in the day, 1988 it must have been either Kerrang! or some other
magazine I was reading at the time that was raving over this album. So I bought into it, and went down to my local import record shop and handed over the cash.
Wings Of Heaven was Magnum's seventh studio album and back in those pre-internet days I relied on reviews to discover new music. This was a hit and miss affair,
but generally I didn't end up with too many pineapples.
Having not heard a single not before pressing play on my CD player, I was almost immediately hooked by Magnum's commercial brand of hard pomp rock.
Well what exactly is pomp rock? To be honest I don't really know, the term was thrown around by Kerrang! writers Derek Oliver, Malcom Dome and a few others back in the day.
It could be as simple as a little more complicated arrangements/keyboards and layers of sounds than your standard hard rock.
This album in the end is pretty easy to listen to, it has some great hooks, some poppy singles, more lengthy rockers and the last song, the epic tour-de-force 10 minute finale.
What did stand out back then and even now is the great songwriting, Bob Catley's soaring voice and an album that doesn't really sound like it's from that era of 1980's heavy music.
There of course is the big drum sound and the slightly more glam look from the band, but they has the songs to back it up.
The resulting tour they peaked with their popularity and had a brilliant live showed captured on glorious VHS cassette, that has never been upgraded to DVD or BR.
If you've never heard of Magnum, do yourself a favour and watch the live the show in the link below, you won't be disappointed.
Wings Of Heaven live https://youtu.be/DDT3hO6gmWo
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Thread resurrection :metal :metal :metal
I love Magnum and Wings Of Heaven is definitely one of their best. Bob Catley is an amazing singer and Tony Clarkin a seriously underrated guitar player.
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Jesus, what a epic thread bump! :metal
Bar OASN, probably their best album. Wild Swan and Don't Wake the Lion are just classic.
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Gonna catch up to this thread but man what a bump :lol
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Yeah been thinking about it for a while now, to resurrect this and keep it going.
TBH I didn't realise it had been almost a year since the last update.
OASTN was pretty close to knocking, but WoH wins by a nose...
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Yeah been thinking about it for a while now, to resurrect this and keep it going.
TBH I didn't realise it had been almost a year since the last update.
OASTN was pretty close to knocking, but WoH wins by a nose...
No issue there mate.
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I'm not really familiar with Magnum at all. Just listened to a big chunk of this album including Don't Wake The Lion.
This is a cool album. It's easy on the ears but not cheesy at all. I remember seeing Magnum in Kerrang all the time, but I guess I never searched their albums out at the time. I honestly don't remember ever seeing any of them.
But I would've dug this.
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I'm not really familiar with Magnum at all. Just listened to a big chunk of this album including Don't Wake The Lion.
This is a cool album. It's easy on the ears but not cheesy at all. I remember seeing Magnum in Kerrang all the time, but I guess I never searched their albums out at the time. I honestly don't remember ever seeing any of them.
But I would've dug this.
Just well done melodic rock. They have quite a bit of filler but this one is wonderful. On A Storytellers Night was top 50 material for me. Check that one also mate.
Del Vicchio should seriously go back and listen to some old Magnum to hear how it's done right.
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I have 6 or 7 Magnum albums, and rate On A Storyteller’s Night very highly, but for some reason I never bought Wings of Heaven and have never listened to it. I will have to rectify this.
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Chase The Dragon, On A Storyteller's Night and Wings Of Heaven are the best ones imo, but I really like all of their output.
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Chase The Dragon, On A Storyteller's Night and Wings Of Heaven are the best ones imo, but I really like all of their output.
Has to be the top 3 right there.
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Number 26 coming up soon :metal
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26.
Kalmah
The Black Waltz
Melodic Death Metal
Spikefarm/Spinefarm Records 2006
(https://i.discogs.com/VzQvKXKWh6xxRszAyzgzamZl93_FKXGKTNHAtljgfuM/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:597/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTE3ODkz/MTMtMTQ2NzI4OTMy/Ny05MzA1LmpwZWc.jpeg)
1. Defeat 5:32
2. Bitter Metallic Side 4:28
3. Time Takes Us All 4:23
4. To The Gallows 4:40
5. Svieri Doroga 1:08
6. The Black Waltz 4:37
7. With Terminal Intensity 4:56
8. Man Of The King 4:02
9. The Groan Of Wind 5:02
10. Mindrust 4:06
11. One From The Stands 4:32
12. This Mortal Coil (Carcass cover) Japan Only Bonus Track 4:35
Band line up
Pekka Kokko − guitars, vocals
Antti Kokko − guitars
Marco Sneck − keyboard
Timo Lehtinen − bass
Janne Kusmin − drums
There's a saying that I often heard on my many trips to Finland when I was living in Wales, 'Finland in winter you either drink or play metal'.
There are just so many bands in the land of a thousand lakes, it's hard to keep track, listen and fully appreciate many of them.
Kalmah are one of those bands that can disappear under the radar, one of many Finnish bands that make great albums, but seem to be relatively 'unknown'.
The Black Waltz was the band's fourth album, while I can honestly say that every one of their eight studio albums are top class, this is the one that got me hooked and
stood out and still does as the pinnacle of their career so far.
Kalmah's brand of melodic death metal could easily be compared to Children Of Bodom, the mostly catchy songs, the guitar/keys interplay, shredding solo's, the rough vocals.
While this is true, what make them different is the vocals of Pekka Kokko, he can go deep, and also their is a black metal element with his voice and the sometime BM blast beats.
Just like Bodom, Kalmah have an amazing ability to write some foot tapping headbanging tunes that stick in you head for days.
I think what has stopped them from being more well known is two things.
The first not getting enough push from their record label, being on Spikefarm, a subsidiary of Spinefarm Records (who got swallowed up by UMC)
But more importantly they didn't tour as much as Bodom seemed to do back in the day and I strongly suspect that all the band members have full time day jobs and families too.
By not touring much they couldn't develop their live act to the level required to step up to their peers, Both times I saw them live they seemed to be a bit off.
This release is highly recommended for anyone who is into MDM, who can tolerate harsh vocals, and loves a catchy song or two
To The Gallows https://youtu.be/ZLUx1oCqBHg
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This was the album that got me into Kalmah back in 2006-7ish. I had just discovered Opeth and Scar Symmetry and Melodic Death Metal in general, so I was eagerly trying to find as much new music in that vein as possible, which led me to these guys. Great album! Never did get into much from their other albums though. I think by the time I discovered this I was already moving on to finding other things.
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I know this band rings a bell, and I'm pretty sure I've heard a song or two over the years. Children of Bodom are one of my all time faves, and I'm digging some old melodeath classics at the moment so it seems a perfect time to queue this up :corn
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Longest anticipation for the 27th ranked anything in the history of time.
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I have a couple of Kalmah albums but not this one. I'll check it out.