This page was last updated on: March 1, 2024
          Pick of the month for 2 - 2024
        Mick Mars-The Other Side Of Mars
I have revamped the picks section into more of a buyers guide. I figured that I would give a little more exposure to albums that are must haves and are still available as far as I know. If you have questions beyond the descriptions given, email me. Thanks for checking this section out.
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Fans of Mick Mars had heard that he wanted to release solo material at some point and finally we have his new record. There has obviously been a lot going on with Mars and his former bandmates, so what better to do than release some great music. Channel some energy into something positive. This new album is very appropriately titled. Don't expect Mötley Crüe style music. To me things are a bit deeper with his solo work. Maybe the closest you might get to the Crüe is the self titled mid 90's album. There is a heaviness to this album, but also a fair amount of depth as well. I absolutely enjoyed this record. It's a Mick Mars album and should be taken that way. He still has plenty to say musically!  Definitely don't miss any of the titles below as they all represent the genre very nicely!
Takida-The Agony Flame  ©2024 Napalm Records
Been rooting for these guys to get to a bigger stage for some time now. They have landed with Napalm Records which should help them get distribution in out part of the world. The music to me has a bit of a 'The Burning Heart' feel to it. Absolutely excellent modern hard rock. Easy recommendation as always!
For Fans of:  Modern Hard Rock Website: Takida Official Website
Hugo's Voyage-Inception   ©2023 Frontiers Records
More excellent melodic rock from Hugo who has fronted bands in the past like Valentine and Open Skyz. If you dig classic Journey, you're more than likely going to love this record. A lot of similarities in the music and the vocal work. Songs are very melodic and memorable. Definitely an easy recommend from me!
For Fans of:  Rock   Website: Hugo's Voyage Facebook
Amaranthe-The Catalyst   ©2024 Nuclear Blast Records
If you are familiar with Amaranthe and the triple vocal attack they offer, you'll dig this new record as well. The band have a sound about them and with each album they continue to evolve it. Their videos are also really cool with the offerings from this album being no exception. Most appeal will be to more modern rock fans.
For Fans of:  Modern Rock  Website: Amaranthe Official Website
Filter-The Algorithm   ©2023 Golden Robot Records
This was definitely on my radar, but I'm a physical media guy and the pricing was a bit odd. After a bit of a wait, things are more reasonable and I am plenty happy with the music on this album. Concieved in 2018 to be the successor to the debut 'Short Bus'. Plenty of good grooves on this album. Always a good listen!
For Fans of: Modern/Industrial Hard Rock  Website:  Filter Official Website
Red-Rated R  ©2023 Red Entertainment
​Red has tried a few different things through the years. They have been mostly consistent, but have experimented a little here and there. 'Rated R' is a straight forward rocker of a record. Take a listen to the track 'Surrogates' and you'll have a pretty good idea of what to expect. the album may be a bit short, but is good start to finish! 
For Fans of: Modern Metal  Website:   Red Official Website
Kontrust-Madworld   ©2023 Napalm Records
While I put this in a modern hard rock category, this band is in some ways hard to categorize. One of the more unique, but very fun bands out there. New female lead singer this go around and music is crazy as always. The band brings sounds from their part of the world into the mix as well. Different but very fun album!
For Fans of: Modern Hard Rock   Website: Kontrust Official Website
Grand-Second To None   ©2024 Frontiers Records
I had already liked this band. This release cemented my like even further. I went back to the debut album as well and spent plenty of time with both recently. Very good melodic rock sound with a bit of an edge to it. Really like the feel of the ballad 'Lily'. Very atmospheric and melodic. Really good listen overall!
For Fans of: Melodic Rock  Website: Grand Official Website
Temple Balls-Avalanche  ©2023 Frontiers Records
Great bombastic hard rock sound. If you are familiar with acts like H.E.A.T, you should really take the time to check these guys out! Plenty of flash, attitude and good production show these guys are the real deal. We have checked them out before and once again can give a good recommendation to fans of 80's style hard rock!
For Fans of: Hard Rock  Website: Temple Balls Official Website
Honeymoon Suite-Alive  ©2024 Frontiers Records
Here is a band that I'm glad to see back. They still write very memorable melodic hard rock music. As of this writing I am still waiting for my physical copy but am sure it should be soon. Great 80's style melodic sound with upbeat music and decent performances throughout! This one is a no brainer!
For Fans of: Melodic Rock Website Honeymoon Suite Official Website
February  2024 Edition
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