TONY O'HORA
Escape Into the Sun
Frontiers Records 2006

"Tony has a great melodic voice and I've always enjoyed the guitar work of Magnus Karlsson (Starbreaker), but somehow these two don't mix well. There's some good songs here, but I really didn't feel any energy or inspiration from them. It feels like a generic, run-of-the-mill melodic rock record." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

DRAGONLORD
Black Wings of Destiny
Escapi Music 2005

"What really separates this group from the rest of the death and black metal bands out there is their ominous and haunting keyboard tones. They add just the right amount of contrast to the ferocious vocals and monster riffs. I'll forgive the utterly cliché album title. This disc is the soundtrack to your worst nightmares." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

SUBMACHINE
Off the Rails: Loose at the Moose
Da' Core Records 2005

"Submachine are more of a local mainstay than a national act. Despite the packaging's assertion of 40 songs, they fail to mention they are including all the aside conversations. You do get 29 underground hardcore punk anthems from one of Pittsburgh's favorite rock acts. The show is shot at a little bar packed to the gills with fans and non-fans alike. The camera positioning makes it feel as if you are watching the show from the crowd. You're not getting a five-star presentation, but you are getting a quality bootleg." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

SMOKE OUT PRESENTS...
Body Count featuring Ice-T DVD
Eagle Vision 2005

"Rapper/actor Ice-T proves he can lay it down heavy metal style just as well as he does rap style. Taken from a 2003 performance, Body Count plow through a ten song set until they are practically dragged off stage. The band are solid in their brand of hardcore, but I think lyrically they alienate the heavy metal faithful. I don't know how great it was to have a ten year old on the stage yelling 'fuck the police' either. Decent show, but really short. The first three songs are basically instrumentals with Ice T exclaiming 'Body Count mutherfucker'. The extras are pointless." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

FRANZ FERDINAND
You Could Have It So Much Better
Domino Records 2005

"When major music publications such as Rolling Stone, Entertainment Weekly, and Blender all agree that a particular album or band is the next big thing, chances are they suck. Case in point--Franz Ferdinand. They should have just slapped a 'the' at the beginning of their name and an 's' at the end, because they're just as horrible as The White Stripes, The Hives, The Strokes, and the rest of those trendy alt rock bands. Franz Ferdinand is a perfect example of what is wrong with commercial rock music today." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

FIVESPEED
Morning Over Midnight
Virgin Records 2005

"Another cookie-cutter rock band plucked out of middle-America (okay Arizona) and groomed by a major label to become the next sensation on rock radio. Problem is, they sound like everyone else in the same situation. I can actually hear the Pro-Tools working its magic on this one. I'll bet this band isn't too shabby live, but the studio outcome is too polished." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

WEEZER
Make Believe
Geffen Records 2005

"Weezer decides to focus more on sincerity than humor this time around. You do still get tongue-in-cheek songs such as 'Beverly Hills' and 'We Are All on Drugs', but you also get more heartfelt and personal tunes like 'Hold Me,' My Best Friend,' and 'The Damage in Your Heart.' Weezer still rocks, and chalk one up in the hit column for producer Rick Ruben (he's been so fickle recently)." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

AS I LAY DYING
Shadows of Security
Metal Blade Records 2005

"I don't know what it is with me and death metal. I can totally get into bands like Unearth and Cradle of Filth, but listening to As I Lay Dying does nothing for me. I hear a really heavy rocking backdrop, but when it comes to the singer I hear, 'blah..blah..growl, snarl, bark, arhhhhh!' As far as the genre goes, the group stays true to it, but doesn't really separate themselves from everyone else." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

S.C.A.R.E.
Killer Kailey From Elm Street
Self-released 2005

"This recording is just too primitive to enjoy. It's just a man, an acoustic guitar, and a tape recorder. S.C.A.R.E. is the death metal/industrial side-project of Jack of Hearts, whose gimmick is a great idea, but songs need work. It's tough to sell the death metal/industrial angle with acoustic guitars. The lyrics show real promise and "Before I Go" sounds really good, but what Jack really needs to do is get a good home recording set-up (or book studio time) and a decent, plugged-in back-up band. It's only then that he may find his way on the road to stardom a la Marilyn Mason or Alice Cooper." (G.D.)

out of 5

THE WHO
Tommy & Quadrophenia Live DVD
Rhino Home Entertainment 2005

"There is so much material on this 3 DVD collection that I could write about it for days. Disc 1 highlights an impressive 1989 show where the group performs their rock opera Tommy in it's entirety. It includes special guests Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Elton John, and more. Extras include a photo gallery.

Disc 2 highlights another spectacular performance, only this time it's their other concept record Quadrophenia. This show intertwines video clips that help propel the storyline with the live segments. Extras include a documentary on the Quadrophenia story.

I hope you haven't had enough yet, because Disc 3 contains The Who's live hits that weren't a part of the previous two discs. Included is the second set from the Tommy show, plus the encore set from the Quadrophenia show. As an added bonus you get three performances from Giants Stadium in 1989. Extras include an interview with Billy Idol.

The best part of all the DVDs is the interactive commentaries with Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend on disc 1 and 2. When this feature is selected, the duo will appear on the screen in front of the performances with their behind-the-scenes tales. You can turn the feature on and off at anytime and not interrupt the show. A MUST HAVE for The Who fans!" (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

LUDO
Broken Bride EP
Redbird Records 2005

"I’m a big fan of concept albums, or rock operas as this CD as billed. I love listening to a collection of songs that form the narrative for one single story. I really loved the storyline for this album. It’s very well done and thought out and would perhaps make a really good script for a movie. Unfortunately, it doesn’t make that good of a CD. The 5 song EP clocks in at 27 minutes long and for the most part I enjoyed the music.

What left me cold were the constant stylistic changes inside each song. I felt the band was trying to cram too much into the song to prove they are worthy of being credited with writing “intelligent” rock. I also didn’t enjoy the vocals. I didn’t feel that they really served the songs well. This is just not something I found myself enjoying at all." (J.R.)

out of 5 BUY IT

VARIOUS ARTISTS
Rainbow Six: Lockdown Soundtrack
Calvin Records 2005

"It doesn't matter what type of war you're engaging in; whether it's a battle within this video game, a face off on the grid iron, or combat in Iraq, this is the soundtrack you want to pump you up and get your adrenaline flowing. You get 15+ powerful tracks from some of the heaviest metal bands in the industry today; Fear Factory, Soilwork, Trivium, Strapping Young Lad, Chimaira, Devil Driver, and more." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

THE BAND
A Musical History Box Set
Capitol Records 2005

"You know, the PR materials sum it up the best; The Band’s new career-spanning box set, A Musical History, is the most comprehensive collection ever created for the group. Packaged within a 108-page hardcover book brimming with previously unseen photos and memorabilia are five CDs and one DVD documenting The Band’s entire recording career from 1963 to 1976. Among the set’s 111 audio and video tracks are 37 previously unreleased recordings and filmed clips captured live and in-studio.

Sonically, the material sounds quite dated. I watched a Ronnie Hawkins show from 1995 and he is 10x better today then he was thirty years ago. Granted, I wasn't even born until The Band had already broken up. I only know tracks like "The Weight" and "Who Do You Love" because other bands have covered them or they've been in commercials. All in all, collectors and fans are sure getting a boatload of material." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

RANDY & THE BLOODY LOVELIES
Lift
Cheap Lullaby Records 2005

"More of a crooner like Frank Sinatra or Harry Connick Jr. than a rocker, Randy Wooten and company combine big band style drumming with eclectic piano arraignments to create a soundtrack suitable for your favorite coffee or art house." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

SEVENTH KEY
Live in Atlanta
Frontiers Records 2005

"I have never heard of the group before this album. Once this 80 minute live masterpiece was finished, my jaw just dropped. This is what excellent melodic rock is supposed to sound like. Each song is beautifully arranged and executed. After just one listen of each song, they become instantly recognizable.

The outstanding musicianship should be no surprise since the group is made up of melodic rock veterans (ex-Kansas members). Every one of the 12 live cuts and 3 studio tracks is a potential hit in my book. All rock fans MUST have this in their collection!" (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

SHIPYARD WRECK
Reflect and Shine
Whailing City Sound 2005

"It’s tough to find a good original rock band in the south-eastern Massachusetts area. Sure, Boston has plenty of excellent bands, but once you start heading south, things start to get watered down. That was until I found this album by Shipyard Wreck.

I was expecting a thunderous heavy metal explosion based on the name & cover, but what I ended up finding was some of the best blues rock I’ve heard in years. James Gagne’s deep and soulful vocals are rich with power and emotion, and his rhythm section is top-notch. The addition of saxophone, brass, and Hammond B3 organ only enhance their appeal." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

VARIOUS ARTISTS
This Bird Has Flown: A 40th Anniversary tribue to The Beatles Rubber Soul
Razor & Tie Records 2005

"Notice it doesn’t say “All-Star” tribute. There are a few notable names like The Donnas, Dar Williams, and Ben Harper; but the majority of the disc is a who’s who of indie, folk, and underground artists. You probably won’t recognize them unless you big into that scene. As far as the songs go, they’re not bad. Most are true to the original with little changes in the ones that aren’t. It’s an interesting concept to pay homage to a whole album instead of a band, but like they say, nothing beats the original." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

LOOK WHAT I DID
Minuteman for the Moment
Combat Records 2005

"This release completes the trilogy that is the Combat Records relaunch campaign. Just like their label mates, Look What I Did fall in line with the harcore/metal legacy that Combat created decades ago. Barry Donegan is a schizophrenic vocalist that screeches like Cradle of Filth and harmonizes like Incubus. The rest of the band takes their cues from the thrashers and metal gods of the past with furious riffs and pounding drum beats." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

THE ROLLING STONES
A Bigger Bang
Virgin Records 2005

"You know it as well as I do; the last few Rolling Stones albums we’re not so good. I think we all started to wonder, ‘are they just putting out a new record because their going out on their next (final) tour’? Fear not Rolling Stones fans (die-hard or casual); A Bigger Bang delivers the goods. Instead of following the tends and styles of the music scene as they did with past albums, Mick Jagger and company put out a record that sounds like…The Rolling Stones.

Every song, with the exception of the abysmal Keith Richard’s fronted “This Place is Empty”, will remind you of a classic Stones cut. Some might say it’s more of the same, but you don’t love this band because they’re experimental or because they change their sound with what’s hot today; you love them because they sound like The Rolling Stones damn it!" (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

GAMMARAY
Majestic
Sanctuary Records 2005

"The German power metal band return with their eleventh album (and I have every single one). Majestic is loaded with all of the high speed guitar runs, machine-gun double kick drums, chugga-chugga riffage, and operatic/melodic vocal tones that you expect from the group.

Thematically, some of the songs are a little darker (“Hell is Thy Home”, “Blood Religion” and “Condemned to Hell”) than previous efforts, but they still pack a thunderous metal punch. Kai Hansen (ex-Helloween) still manages to capture the power and energy that the group displayed from album one (16 years ago)." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

ASIA
Anthology Special Edition
Inside Out Music 2005

"A decent collection of 16 hits that focuses on the John Payne years. Asia re-recorded "Heat of the Moment" and "Only Time Will Tell" to reflect the sound of their new singer (and for legal reasons). Jeff Downes even dusted off an old track from GTR called "The Hunter". Included as part of the special edition is an acoustic version of "Time Again". However, as good as Payne is, I've always been a Wetton fan." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

VARIOUS ARTISTS
Jamie Oldaker's Mad Dogs & Okies
Concord Records 2005

"The brainchild of Jamie Oldaker, Mad Dogs & Okies is a collection of artists, musicians, and writers that are wither from Oklahoma of have been involved of influenced by Oklahoma music over the years. It includes artist such as Vince Gill, Eric Clapton, Peter Framton, Taj Mahal, and Willie Nelson. The song selection is a combination of original material and covers. Some songs work ("Promises") and some don't ("Can't Find My Way Home"). One things for sure, it a blues album tride and true." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

APHASIA
Fact & Fiction
DRT Entertainment 2005

"Fact: Aphasia's latest album is full of rock-solid modern rock rhythms and brash but tuneful vocal performances. Fiction: They're just another whiney cry-baby band." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

AT ALL COST
It's Time to Decide
Combat Records 2005

"Combat Records rises from the ashes to resurrect their reputation for some of the best thrash and hardcore music in the business. At All Cost is just one of the three that were chosen, and they couldn't have made a better choice. Not only do you get monstrous thrash, hardcore, and metal music on this album, but the group also throws in death metal, prog-rock, modern rock, and the kitchen sink." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

BRILLIANT RED LIGHTS
Touch Like You Want It
Agent Records 2005

"This album would’ve been great if it had been an instrumental recording. Sadly this was not the case, and the album is so much poorer for the addition of vocals.
The music is hard driving, full of awesome riffs that can rock quite nicely. However, the vocals are terrible.

I can’t sing all that well myself, but I have the good sense to not force myself upon the general public by way of a record deal. If great music and bad vocals are up your alley, this is an album you will love. Discerning music fans should move it along because there are more complete albums on the market.
" (J.R.)

out of 5

MATTIAS "IA" EKLUNDH
Freak Guitar: The Road Less Traveled
Favored Nations 2005

"Swedish guitar hero Mattias Eklundh offers up this symphony of strings that will have you coming back for more. This Favored Nations release fits right in with the family. It’s eclectic, electric, and fantastic all in one! This slinger pays homage to the shredders of recent, and whips up some styles from the past that will leave you with a smiling question mark. It’s not straight up anything, but rather a very well thought out mix of rock, jazz, classical, melodic, pop and electronica.

It comes off more as a “see what can be done” as to a “look at me” that sometime plagues the shredders of the eighties. I feel you'll see more from this talent in the near future. The B-Side to all of that is; having done this work, what could one do to one up it for the next release? More of the same while pleasing is great, but sometimes we expect a variation from the original." (K.K.)

out of 5 BUY IT

KHOIBA
Nice Traps
Streetbeat Records 2005

"The press materials want to make you believe that Khoiba (Ko – EE – ba) mixes synthesizers, guitars, and hauntingly beautiful vocals from singer Ema Brabcova to make a stunning full-length debut album. The CD features 13 tracks, and the enhanced portion has a video for “202”, lyrics and a photo gallery. However, the mix of indie rock and electronica from the Prague based group just doesn’t cut it with me.

The vocals serve more as a constant source of aggravation, combined with a soundtrack that I have no interest in. Electronic music for me is something you need a lobotomy to enjoy. If you enjoy this type of music, I really want to know why you are calling yourself a rock music fan. This is just not something I would ever want to hear again.
" (J.R.)

out of 5 BUY IT

KELLY CLARKSON
Breakaway
RCA Records 2004

"Oh, you don't think Kelly Clarkson rocks? We'll you obviously haven't been listening. For the American Idol winner's second album she revamped her image and sound to become a bit edgier. You can't deny the rock inspired angst of "Since U Been Gone", "Behind These Hazel Eyes", "Gone", and "I Hate Myself...". They're a far cry from "A Moment Like This". There are a good amount on rockers as well as drippy ballads, but they're well produced and delivered. I know this one has been out for a while, but it's still tearing up the radio. (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

JULIET
Random Order
Virgin Records 2005

"More of a dance maven than a rock chick, Juliet still manages to hypnotize you with electronic beats, repetitive vocal hooks, and hints of guitar fuzz. Unlike her some of her dance house peers, Juliet can really belt it out when she wants to." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

STYX
Big Bang Theory
New Door Records 2005

"A lot of bands this year have been covering songs from the 70s or making albums that sound like they were made in that era, but Styx takes some of the most mundane and boring songs of the seventies and injects tremendous energy and appeal into them. Never did songs like "Summer in the City", I Can See For Miles". and "I Am the Walrus" sound so good. Styx also show their flair for heavy metal by covering two songs that were covered by W.A.S.P., "I Don't Need No Doctor" and "Locomotive Breath". Of course the Styx versions win hands down." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA
All Over the World: The Very Best Of
Legacy Recordings 2005

"This is the third hits collection put out by Legacy for ELO. The third time's a charm, right? Well, almost. I guess if I were a big fan of ELO, I'd grab 2000's 3CD Flashback collection. Granted in 2003, The Essential ELO was released with 15 songs, but this latest collection has 20. For some reason, some of the 'Essential' songs aren't the very best, because they have been omitted.

All of that aside, getting 20 hits by one of the most progressive rock bands of the seventies ain't so bad. Some of the effects heavy numbers will make you chuckle due to their use of primitive electronic effects. All and all, this collection packs all you need to know about ELO. You'll be surprised at how many song you actually know too." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

THE LIMIT
4 Track Sampler (of upcoming album)
Horizon Music Group 2005

"Remember when rock groups had singers that could actually sing? Remember up-beat, feel-good rock and roll music? Well The Limit sure does. With just four songs they've convinced me that there's hope for rock music to return to it's purest form. Now if they could send a full album and a case of the good stuff from their tour sponsor, I'll be extremely satisfied." (G.D.)

out of 5

TERRY BOZZIO + METROPOLE ORKEST
Chamber Works
Favored Nations 2005

"Renowned rock drummer meets established orchestra; the combination works on an eccentric level, but on a casual level, not so much. I'm sure that drum aficionados will appreciate Bozzio's unique approach to his drum work here, but the songs are so long and drawn out (and far from rock), that they tend to lose their appeal." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

BRIAN ENO
Another Day on Earth
Rykodisc Records 2005

"Brain takes the experimental route with his latest album. I can't say that it's bad, but I can't say that I enjoyed it either. The songs are predominantly on the slow tempo side from start to finish. Eno's vocals are faint and somewhat uninspiring in their delivery. In a career that spans nearly 30 years, Eno's allowed to experiment here and there." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

THE STOOGES
S/T & Funhouse (Deluxe Editions)
Rhino Records 2005

"Either you're a fan of Iggy Pop and The Stooges or you're not. I fall into the latter category. Although, I can't deny the raw, underground rock sound that The Stooges helped create on their debut and sophomore albums. With The Stooges you get the original 8 tracks plus the original mixes on the bonus disc that were deemed to artsy back in 1969.

With Funhouse, Iggy expands on his lyrical ability; I think these seven songs combined have twice as many words as their debut. The songs on the bonus disc are alternate takes of what turned out to be the final product. As usual Rhino delivers the goods with a combined total of 24 bonus tracks, original artwork, and expanded liner notes." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY S/T BUY FUNHOUSE

UTTERANCE
Everything You Thought You Knew
Self Adhesive Records 2005

"I can appreciate the Tacoma, Washington metallers' intense vocals delivery. I can appreciate their brutal riffs and pounding drums. What I can't appreciate is both of them together. Utterance's latest release does nothing to separate them from the thousands of other hardcore/metal bands out there. The songs are predictable, and the vocals are just snarling growls. I understand this is their first outing, so maybe they'll progress from here." (G.D.)

out of 5

IRON MAIDEN
The Essential
Sanctuary Records 2005

"Unquestionably the greatest heavy metal band to come out of England. This is their 13th greatest hit package (okay 4th). I wonder if they'll follow it up with a live release (later this year actually)? Anyway, disc one relies heavily on modern Maiden; from 1990 to 2003, to include the Blaze Bailey years. Despite a few catchy numbers, this disc is...let's say not the best.

Disc two is pure, unadulterated, classic Maiden at their best; from their debut album to Seventh Son. The energy and hits never stop (well, until the CD is over). You also get two live cuts from the upcoming live album that cut original vocalist Paul Di'Anno a little more out of the picture. Now when the hell can I get the studio version of "Far of the Dark" on a hits package?" (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

FEAR FACTORY
Transgression
Calvin/Liquid 8 Records 2005

"Transgression is everything that you would expect from Fear Factory ...unfortunately that's the problem. The first Fear Factory CD I bought was Obsolete. I liked it so much I bought the albums that preceded it and the one after it. I soon realized that they all sounded the same. The reason I think Obsolete was so good was because it had some cash behind the production.

Transgression is described as being experimental, but it's evident that the only experiment is to see if they can recreate their sound with less money (almost, but cheap production is noticeable). Fear Factory hit a creative brick wall after their second album, and haven't found a way around it." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

COPPER
The Fragile Fall
Rockpie Records 2005

"Usually a band that is described as “modern rock” makes me shiver in disgust because the music is typically whiny, self indulgent, and barely adequately played. I’m happy to report that this is not the case here. It’s a solidly crafted album with a 5 of the 10 songs being outstanding. The music is fantastic. There’s great guitar work, and a real spotlight for the drummer to beat the heck out of the skins.

The band knows how to construct a hard rocking song.
The best songs are “By Now”, “Tomorrow”, “Conversation” and “Got It All Wrong". One thing I did notice is that the vocals due tend to get a bit buried in the overall sound at various points throughout the album. Still, the album is a pretty good listen and it lives up to the billing of being a rock and roll album." (J.R.)

out of 5

WYCKED SYNN
The Vision
Chavis Records 2005

"The album is a throwback to the 1980’s and early 90’s when unbelievable guitar fretwork, soaring vocals and a heavy rhythm section could just about rule the music world. I loved the guitar work from Ken Orth and Gary Carrillo is outstanding. The instrumental “K.M.A.” is a shred fest with few peers. I just didn’t find myself drawn into the overall package.

The band’s melodic metal style is something I normally love without reservation, however, I just didn’t feel the vocals meshed as well as they should have with the music. I’m interested enough to want to hear more material, but they need more than superb guitar lines to make a complete and fulfilling CD.
" (J.R.)

out of 5

MICHAEL MCDONALD
The Ultimate Collection
Rhino Records 2005

"Rhino follows up their Very Best of Michael McDonald collection with a complete career retrospective of the R&B/blues-rocker. Not only do you get his solo best, but you get his best duets, best of the Doobie Brothers, and a new song off his last covers album. There are 19 tracks in all, but be warned; about 3/4 of the way through, you probably won't recognize much." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

VARIOUS ARTISTS
Stairway to Rock (Not Just) A Led Zeppelin Tribute
Koch Entertainment 2005

"The biggest problem here is that Koch fails to distinguish clearly who's performing on this industrial tribute album. Even when you look in the liner notes, you still don't know where these guys are from. What band is Robbie Robb & Chris Gavin from? There's a few musicians you'll know, but they're mostly b-listers. The next issue is that people really don't really like their favorite tunes changed almost completely. A couple of the songs are now rap tunes, and others eliminate key vocal of guitar parts." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

VARIOUS ARTISTS
Hazy Dreams: (Not Just) A Jimi Hendrix Tribute
Koch Entertainment 2005

"Same guys from the Zeppelin tribute, same rearrangement of songs. However, this tribute come out a little more enjoyable. The biggest problem here is attention to detail. I've made my fair share of spelling errors, but I don't get paid to fix errors like "Foxey Lady" and "Voodoo Child"." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

BALZAC
Out of the Grave & Into the Dark
Misfits Records 2005

"This group is essentially the Japanese version of the Misfits; right down to their musical style, look, and presentation. That's okay though, because the Misfits are cool with them. In fact, they introduced them to the U.S. This collection is two albums combined into one for a total of 22 furious and raucous tracks. Don't let their hardcore punk label fool you either, they can lay down some great anthems too. You get a bonus DVD with videos, live performances, and more audio tracks. You get the total package here." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

THE KIN
Red EP
Alethia Music 2005

"It's part on of the planned Red, Black, and White EP trilogy. Red, unlike their debut Tracing, takes more of and edgier and raw stance with driving and energetic tracks like 'See' and 'Radio'. Even though it's not as refined as their debut, The Kin still know how to write great songs. It's five bucks for five songs, so go try something new. While You're at it, buy Tracing too." (G.D.)

out of 5

BRETT DENNEN
S/T
Flagship Recordings 2005

"Reminiscent of Paul Simon, you can't deny the spirituality and heart that Brett puts into his music. With this debut, Dennen lays down the ground work of what could be a lengthy songwriting career. I would have like to have heard more up-tempo songs, but Brett is prefect for coffee houses, college campuses, and respectful bookstores." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

DEXTER DANGER
Hellafornia
Orange Peal Records 2005

"Have no fear, Dexter Danger is here to free you from the evil forces of the mundane, repetitive, and whiny pop-punk music that has been taking over the airwaves. Sadly, in a world full of evil, Dexter fails to clearly identify themselves as the good guys." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

9 SONGS
Directed by Michael Winterbottom
Tartan Films 2005

"I've never actually reviewed a movie, so this is going to be settled with a coin toss. Heads: It's an indie arthouse movie about two lovers set to the soundtrack of nine songs featuring bands like Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Von Bondies. Tails: It's softcore, nearly hardcore porn film. Wouldn't you know it; damn coin landed on its edge." (G.D.)

out of 5

NEW DEAD RADIO
Avalon Bridge Will Burn
Media Skare Records 2005

"Heavy, intense, hardcore, and blood-curling...but not that original." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

NIACIN
Live in Tokyo DVD
Eagle Rock Entertainment 2005

"Bassist Billy Sheehan, keyboardist John Novello, and drummer Dennis Chambers just sit there and play through a set of ten jazz-fusion style instrumental numbers. There's no denying their talent at their respective instruments, but combined together it's rather boring." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

CANTINERO
Championship Boxing
Artemis Records 2005

"It doesn't pack much of a punch, but the mellow vocals and experimental instrumentation combination may take you down to the mat just the same." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

EDGAR WINTER
Jazzin' the Blues
SPV Records 2005

"You have to know the blues to really understand jazz music. That's why it makes sense for Edgar to cross over. You can tell he has real feel for the music." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

SHIVER
Last Rides of the Midway
Da' Core Records 2005

"True to their name, they're going to send one up your spine with their powerful, high-energy, speed punk sound. Shiver is like The Offspring with balls." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

THE VACATION
Band From World War Zero
Echo Records 2005

"Stop whining, you're on vacation for crying out loud. When you get back, you might want to take up some voice lessons." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

BLACK LABEL SOCIETY
Mafia
Artemis Records 2005

"Ozzy's faithful ax-man gives you an all-out metal assault that you can't refuse. Loaded with his signature crunch pentatonic soloing. Zakk gets a little soulful on the piano, but it still works. Sounds a lot more like Ozzy on the microphone." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

PEPPINO D'AGOSTINO & STEF BURNS
Bayshore Road
Favored Nations 2005

"Acoustic meets electric on this serene journey through the back roads and landscapes that these two talented guitarist can illicit." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

LOU REED
Spanish Fly: Live in Spain
Sanctuary Records Group 2005

"It is what it is. An eleven song live performance from Spain in 2004. It's not the biggest show or the biggest crowd, but the underground rock legend shows that he's still the man. DVD lacks any real extras." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

VAN MORRISON
Magic Time
Geffen Records 2005

"Is it a rock album? Not really, more like jazz and big band. Is Van Morrison a legend? Hell yeah! Is the new CD consistent with his past work? Definitely! Is this CD worth every penny? You better believe it!" (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

ALOGIA
Secret Spheres of Art
Locomotive Music 2005

"Serbia's answer to Helloween, Statovarious, and Blind Gauardian. A powerful and intriguing debut, but the vocalist needs to control his high spots better." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

KOMA
sinonimo de ofender
Locomotive Music 2005

"Good heavy metal breaks all language barriers." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

JOE PERRY
S/T
Columbia Records 2005

"Starts off with a hard, blusey-rock bang, but fizzles out in the end. I do think Steven should give Joe a chance a vocals every once in a while." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

CORROSION OF CONFORMITY
In the Arms of God
Snactuary Records Group 2005

"Everything you'd expect from C.O.C.-- meaty riffs, catchy hooks, and punishing vocals...but I've heard better from them." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

DOPPLER INC.
Nu Instrumental
Favored Nations 2005

"Surprisingly enough, there's nothing nu about it (thank God). Doppler delves into the prog-metal arena for the most part, but uses a vast array of rock styles on top of it; hard rock, metal, alternative...and I think I even heard the kitchen sink." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

EVIL MASQUERADE
Theatrical Madness
Frontiers Records 2005

"The heavy metal soundtrack to haunted carnivals and abandoned theaters everywhere." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

THE GIRAFFES
S/T
Razor and Tie Records 2005

"Might just be the bastard sons of Monster Magnet and Danzig (minus the satanism). I've had this disc since February and the release date keeps getting pushed back (summer 2005 now). It's time to stick your necks out and release this one." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

STARBREAKER
S/T
Frontiers Records 2005

"I really wanted to give this one a feature review, but I just couldn't find the time. Powerful melodic/hard rock. Anything with Tony Harnell's name attached to it is worth every penny." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

SEX MUSEUM
Fly By Night
Locomotive Records 2005

"European hard rockers release double live CD packed with hits that will have you salivating for the upcoming companion DVD." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

GRATITUDE
S/T
Atlantic Records 2005

"It's not that Gratitude is a bad album, it's just I've heard this style of emo/pop-punk so many times already." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

HEADRUSH
S/T
Frontiers Records 2005

"Tough call on this one. It's not the best melodic rock/metal CD I've heard, but it's not the worst either. How many bands does Alex De Rosso belong to exactly?" (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

MARK KENDALL
2.0
Big Fin Records 2005

"There's no question that Mark Kendall was a major influence on the eighties hard rock scene. There's also no questioning his skills as a blues-based rock guitarist. However, I think that 2.0 is a little too far removed from what he is known for." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

TIERRA SANTA
Apocalipsis
Locomotive Records 2005

"I'm not usually drawn to rock music in a foreign language, but there's something about these guys that do it for me. Sung entirely in Spanish, it's a great mix of that classic metal sound with a modern rock edge. Now if I could just understand what they are saying." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

VARIOUS ARTISTS
VH1 Classic Metal Mania Stripped
Immortal Records 2005

"A decent collection of hard-to-find and re-recorded acoustic tracks by your favorite metal acts of the late eighties/early nineties. However, they should have done all classic cuts or all re-recorded cuts. Comparing the present to the past is not pleasant for some." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

JUDAS PRIEST
Angel of Retribution
Sony Records 2005

"This is how you make a comeback! A lot of reviews state it sounds like Painkiller, but I would say more like early Priest. Get the dual disc version for bonus live performaces and a 5.1 mix." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

STEVE VAI
Real Illusions: Reflections
Epic Records 2005

"I'm a huge fan of Steve Vai...but this is not his best work. I really enjoyed Fire Garden and Alive in an Ultra World, but it seems he's pulling further away from the rock scene and focusing on experimental stuff. Track 7 rules either way." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

DURAN DURAN
Astronaut
Sony Records 2005

"Houston...we have a problem. Now everybody DANCE!" (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

ENUFF Z' NUFF
?
Frontiers Records 2005

"Truth be told, the only other release I've heard by them was their self-titled debut. ? lacks the production quality of that release and the catchy songwriting. There are some good tracks (Harleya), but there are some bad ones (Joni Woni). Fans will most likely dig it. (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

CLASSIC ALBUM SERIES DVD:
Jimi Hendrix - Electric Ladyland
Eagle Vision USA 2005

"The classic album series always does a good job of giving you the most information about your favorite artist's definitive album. This DVD confirmed what I always suspected about Hendrix; he really didn't know what he was doing, he just went in and did it...and did it well." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF HEAVY METAL
by Daniel Bukszapan

“A complete guide to all of your favorite metal bands past and present. Sure, some are excluded and some don't really fit it, but it's packed with plenty of information and lots of high quality photos. Very heavy & thick too. All this for under $20!” (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

AL DI MEOLA
One of These Nights: Live at the Scala in Ludwigsburg, Germany DVD
Music Video Distributors 2005

“It's amazing how much energy and emotion this jazz fusion instrumentalist can bring out of his acoustic guitar. He rarely breaks mid-tempo, but remains captivating and awe-inspiring. Di Melola's approach to playing is quite unique, and you can hear worldly influences in his sound. Extras include a written biography & a 'making of' documentary." (G.D.)

out of 5 BUY IT

HOW NOT TO MAKE IT IN THE MUSIC BUSINESS
by Nicholas Clemente

“If your in a band or are thinking about forming one, maybe you should heed Nick's advice on what not do do. You might find a good laugh or two along the way.” (G.D.)

out of 5

LAST AUTUMN'S DREAM
II
Frontiers Records 2005

“They paint a melodic musical environment with spirited vocals and pleasing soundscapes, that's just as enjoyable as watching the leaves change for the season. Okay, it's artsy.” (G.D.)

out of 5