Filed Under (Reviews) by simon on 31-01-2010
After a slow start to 2010 we review no fewer than nine new releases this week and there’s something for everyone to bring January to a suitably raucous close.
Whether you want to check out vintage Saxon (pictured) in the shape of expanded editions of three of the band’s often overlooked 80s standards or US Saxon-alikes Keel we slate and rate ‘em right here.
There’s the brilliant Bruce Kulick and his start-studded BK3 album plus a thrilling hair metal throwback as Wig Wam return to take on allcomers.
Frontiers standard-bearers Murder Of My Sweet bid for your listening pelasure and Kerrang! tour headliners All Time Low show their softer side with an acoustic mini album. Enjoy. Read the rest of this entry »
Tora Tora – Walkin’ Shoes (Douglas/Corder/Francis/Patterson) b/w Love’s A Bitch (Corder/Douglas/Francis/Patterson) 1989
Mixing hair metal excess with a cool Southern rock vibe, Tora Tora landed a major record deal out of Memphis and their debut album Surprise Attack hit the top 50 on America’s Billboard Top 200.
This single sounds like it could have come straight of NYC mob White Trash’s 1991 record with vocalist Anthony Corder a dead ringer for the Trash’s Dave Alvin and it’s a catchy little tune with a great guitar hook. Read the rest of this entry »
Filed Under (News) by simon on 06-10-2009
With Dr Feelgood fighting its corner in the battle to be crowned rushonrock reissue of the year we’re delighted to be able to bring you the second part of the the Crue’s mini documentary charting the story of the original record.
Twenty years ago the hit-laden hair metal classic emerged as the band’s best record to date – and has never been beaten despite last year’s return to form in the shape of Saints Of Los Angeles. If you enjoyed the first part of the band’s official verdict on the record which we brought you last month then sit back and enjoy part two right here. Read the rest of this entry »
Filed Under (News) by simon on 21-09-2009
Those of you who’ve already been out and bought what could well be the best re-release of the year will already be benefiting from the Dr Feelgood factor.
But if you need a little nudge in the direction of the sleaziest band in history then we’ve bagged a fascinating little documentary where the gang of four reveal the story behind their definitive 1989 release. And the fact that it’s been sold to us as Part One suggests there’s a Part Two on its way. Here’s hoping. Read the rest of this entry »
Filed Under (Reviews) by simon on 20-09-2009
It feels like we’re back in the late 80s and hair metal heaven this week with new releases from the Crue (pictured), Danger Danger, Lynch Mob and House Of Lords dominating the rushonrock reviews round-up. And it feels just great.
Keeping a more traditional sound alive are the excellent Alberta Cross with their soulful 70s-influenced vibe. And then there’s those crazy dudes from Gong who deliver another slice of psychedelic prog rock just in time to celebrate the band’s 40th anniversary. Read the rest of this entry »
Filed Under (News) by simon on 14-09-2009
INME (pictured) are one of a slew of bands taking to the stage this week and we’re going live crazy in a bid to bring you the very best of the gig action.
Next weekend might be the Great North Run but we’re gearing up for a rock marathon on Thursday as Dave McPherson’s mob, celebrating today’s release of Herald Moth, go head to head with LA Guns and Fables Last Stand plus the 2009 Jeff Fest. Three venues, too many bands and only one website capable of bringing you all the action first!
But a truly bonkers week kicks off tonight with Mammal at the End Bar and Blackhole preparing to blitz a Newcastle o2 Academy crowd. Random Hand check into Northumbria University on Tuesday and 24 hours later, at the same venue, The Used showcase their new record. Wednesday also sees Dirty Rock And Roll return to action at Newcastle’s Head Of Steam. Read the rest of this entry »
Warrant – Heaven (Oswald, Cagle, Dixon, Chamberlain, Turner) b/w In The Sticks (Oswald, Cagle, Dixon, Chamberlain, Turner) 1988
This chart busting power ballad came along before the rest of the world switched onto Warrant in the shape of their anthemic Cherry Pie.
But the slick production, soaring guitar solo and understated keyboard hook suggested these boys were destined for greatness in an era when style often overshadowed substance.
Issued in the UK as a limited edition poster bag it’s not difficult to imagine the iconic Jani Lane and co. adorning the walls of 80s permed teenage girls (and boys…) everywhere. Read the rest of this entry »
Filed Under (Rock O The North) by simon on 20-08-2009

So Vince Neil, conscious that his band have a new (sort of) record to sell, has gone and badmouthed Axl Rose for letting down his fans in the wake of the decade-old Chinese Democracy saga.
The Motley Crue singer has criticised his fellow American for failing devotees of the biggest rock and roll band on the planet by taking an eternity to release a new album, failing to rehearse with his revolving door band and finally shelving plans to tour any time soon. Read the rest of this entry »
Filed Under (News) by simon on 19-08-2009
Revitalised rockers Motley Crue continue to build on the success of the past few years with the re-release of their seminal Dr Feelgood album next month – issued as a deluxe double CD edition!
The original release saw the Crue reach their commercial peak, combining hit singles with a powerful production and a series of eye-catching clips perfect for the MTV generation. But 20 years on from its chart-topping debut it’s time for fans new and old to relive a true hair metal classic. Read the rest of this entry »
Filed Under (Reviews) by simon on 09-08-2009
Europe return to the fray this week with a fantastic taster for their new long player in the shape of the Last Look At Eden mini album.
We also run the rule over Brit newcomers Sondura as thery make a serious play to become the UK’s answer to Shinedown.
And there’s also a look at a long awaited compilation pulling together the finest moments from the career of Sunset Strip legends (in their own lifetime) Odin. Take your pick. But always pick rock! Read the rest of this entry »