Helloween – Straight Out of Hell: Review

Rating: 3.5/5

Helloween is primarily known for their Keeper of the Seven Keys albums, which many define as the two most influential albums in the history of power metal. That being said, there is much dilution in their discography, especially in the years immediately following their magna opera. Recently, they’ve come out strong with The Dark Ride, Gambling With the Devil, and 7 Sinners. So in conclusion, there’s no way to predict the quality of a Helloween album nowadays.

Riverside – Shrine of New Generation Slaves: Review

Rating: 4.5/5

I’d like to take a minute to brag about Riverside. I mean they’re essentially one of my favorite bands of all time (no exaggeration). There’s not a release in their catalog that I feel is less than great, and that includes LPs, EPs, and frontman Duda’s side projects (haven’t listened to many single releases or live albums by them). In my eyes, they have a 100% hit accuracy when it comes to their discography, and off the top of my head I cannot recall any other band for whom I would make the same statement (Devin… Physicist… So close…). But this is why there was such great internal anxiety when diving into this album blind. It was a leap of faith not knowing whether or not salvation awaited (FYI, it did).

Fair to Midland – Arrows and Anchors: Review

On July 12, Fair to Midland released their latest album entitled Arrows and Anchors. The alternative metal force comes strong with this release, as quality is at a triumphant high. This is my first encounter with the band and, despite my nitpicking, I am quite impressed.

Bloodbound – Unholy Cross: Review

Bloodbound released their latest album on March 18. It was done so through AFM records and is named Unholy Cross. I have formerly stated in other reviews that bands of the heavy-power metal genre often fall into the trap of conformity; Unholy Cross is no exception. Fortunately for the band, the music is at a higher level than the average heavy-power metal record.

Portrait – Crimen Laesae Majestatis Divinae: Review

On May 10, heavy metallers Portrait released their sophomore album through Metal Blade Records. It is entitled Crimen Laesae Majestatis Divinae and features the new vocalist, Per Karlsson. For fans of the more classic style of heavy metal, this is a release to watch out for. I mean, look at the album art: very old-school. Despite the lack of spotlight garnered by Portrait, they are most certainly able to put out material that warrants more publicity.

Matthew Good – Lights of Endangered Species: Review

On May 31, Matthew Good‘s latest album was released. Lights of Endangered Species is the fifth record to be released by the artist since his departure from the Matthew Good Band. It is different from much of his other works, yet its quality is still at a respectable high. With this wonderful release, Matt Good proves he is that good!

Skyliner – The Alchemist (EP): Review

Slightly over a year ago, I received debut demo material from a New Jersey band calling themselves Skyliner. Just recently, I got a hold of their latest EP entitled The Alchemist. Though I was quite pleased with the eponymous release, this one even further impressed me. Everything from the production to the music itself is a step up from what was already a quality product. If you thought Skyliner was good, be sure to check this one out!

Yes – Fly from Here: Review

The band is Yes; the album is Fly from Here.The legendary pioneers of progressive rock are back after a whole decade of rest! Well, back in the sense that they just released a record on June 22 (coming to EU and NA early to mid July). But are they back in the sense that what made them so highly worshipped is once again alive in their music? Not exactly…