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AOR HEAVEN ::: N E W S L E T T E R ::: 10/09/2021 |
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Howdy melodic rockers,
My "dear" friends from UPS has proved
again that they're the most useless bunch at this
planet, cause the latest Rock Candy shipment ( 2x
Loverboy, 2x Britny Fox, Eric Martin) got stucked over
here at the customs. It's totally crazy, cause even
calling their hotline doesn't help as no one is there
which could really solve a problem. They're telling me
the same sh** which get mentioned at their website -
what a bunch of amateurish wankers !!
The Eonian releases from Mad Anthony
and Rings Of Saturn are also slightly behind their
initial schedule and should arrive by Monday.
There's much more next week to come
as you see below and some titles (Saraya, Bandit) is
already in stock.
wishing you a great week
Georg & Monika
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AOR HEAVEN RELEASES:
M.ILL.ION - Back On Track
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A: 11 € |
B: 13 € |
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“Back On Track“ is basically a compilation of the best tracks - and there are many - taken of the first three outputs like „Sign Of Victory“, “Judgement Day“ or “Burn In Hell“ of which the debut „No.1“ celebrates its 30th anniversary these days. And (almost) this line-up is back for good. They wrote and recorded three brand-new and really cool songs, re-arranged, re-recorded two tracks from the debut as well remastered everything. Melodic hard rock that probably only comes from out of Sweden. M.ILL.ION are definitely „Back On Track“. Just check out the brand-new “Rising“. 15 great songs of a great band.
MARTIN STARK |
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Watch:https://youtu.be/I1hsl7l_VH8 |
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NEWMAN - Into The Monster’s Playground
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A: 11 € |
B: 13 € |
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Barely any artist is as busy these days releasing albums as Steve Newman from England is. His band NEWMAN has put out thirteen studio records by now. “Into The Monsters’ Playground“ pretty much rocks (“Hurricane Sky“ or “Don’t Come Runnin’“) and manages to showcase both classic rock and epic elements (“This Life Alone“). Typical British AOR to please lovers of the genre with different tempos as well as glimpses of progressive bits and pieces (“Icon“). Once again with a powerful and sophisticated production. Did this guy ever put out an album that wasn’t good at least? Absolutely reliable stuff these NEWMAN records! Great material for fans of HEARTLAND, FM or ATLAS.
MARTIN STARK |
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Listen:https://youtu.be/t_G9MXAs7r4 |
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PETER H. NILSSON - Sign Of Myself
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A: 11 € |
B: 13 € |
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Second album of Swedish guitarist and songwriter who after his 2019 debut “Little American Dream“ strikes back with yet another Swedish-American collaboration. Easy-going, mature melodic rock with quite different approaches on the genre. Chris Biano from Nashville, USA again provides fine vocals with lots of emotions. A timeless record which comes with many highlights like „Time To Remember“, “Breathe“ or “Can’t Come Down“. Great mixture of AOR, Westcoast and a little bit of pop music. Well-produced and offering some cool surprises like the horn-section on the title track which is reminiscent of PHIL COLLINS to a certain degree.
MARTIN STARK |
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Listen:https://youtu.be/LHjsr6W6mus |
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EXPECTED NEW RELEASES !!
ROBIN RED - Robin Red
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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ROBIN RED is DEGRRED
frontman Robin Ericsson from Sweden. Very melodic and not that heavy and not
that progressive foremost like his mainband as well as at times even poppy, this
debut is fully convincing. An honest, authentic rock record of a remarkable
artist. Just checkout the extremely catchy “Don’t Leave Me (With A Broken Heart)“
or the acoustic “Reason To Survive“. Music in the vein of BRYAN ADAMS or JIMMY
BARNES.
MARTIN STARK
watch:https://youtu.be/-zqnr4uK1pU |
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VEGA - Anarchy And Unity
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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British band VEGA delivers
quality as usual. It’s energy-driven and powerful sounding so that every fan of
the band will be pleased for sure. The guys around frontman Nick Workman once
again manage to sound relatively modern and provide melodic anthems like “Kneel
To You“ at the same time, something not barely any other band is able to achieve.
Produced by Harry Hess (HAREM SCAREM). Further highlights are “Welcome To
Wherever“ and “Beautiful Lie“.
MARTIN STARK
watch:https://youtu.be/HkjyzSqt5DI |
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ROBLEDO - Wanted Man
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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ROBLEDO is a project
centered around Chilean vocalist James Robledo (ex SINNER’S BLOOD). It’s hard
rock with slices of melodic metal. He can sing for sure and songwriter and
producer Alessandro Del Vecchio is certainly not bad in what he is doing but for
some reason this output is not fully convincing. Francesco Marias (TYGERS OF PAN
TANG) on guitar. The title track is the absolute highlight here.
MARTIN STARK
watch:https://youtu.be/YoKNvL7yRLo |
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INTERCORE - Dreams For Sale
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B: 12,5 € |
B: 15 € |
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INTERCORE are Raimo
Rommedahl (g, ex COUSIN BILL) and Jesper Max (v/g, ex FRAISE). The first being
the main songwriter and producer. The Swedish outfit plays hard rock. The album
was created over a period of four years and breathes the DNA of SCORPIONS and
THIN LIZZY at times but also way more contemporary sounds. Two or three songs
are not able to keep up the quite solid level of the rest.
MARTIN STARK
watch:https://youtu.be/x-ydhcsjhUY |
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EDGE OF PARADISE - The Unknown
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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Album number four of the
American band. Female fronter Margarita Monet and her guys put out their
strongest effort to date. Mighty, partly symphonic metal with lots of
contemporary sound elements. Mix by Jacob Hansen (e.g. VOLBEAT). Not suitable
for people digging traditional rock/metal but pretty exciting for the most part.
Only the “Industrial Remix“ of the track “My Method Your Madness“ is absolutely
unnecessary.
MARTIN STARK
watch:https://youtu.be/Klp366ZQJCY |
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TALES OF THE OLD - The Book Of Chaos
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B: 12,5 € |
B: 15 € |
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TALES OF THE OLD play
symphonic dark ambient power metal, so they say and they are basically right.
The Greek band plays partly theatrical sounds with lots of details and different
shades but at times it’s not a harmonious body. Weakest spot are the vocals,
though, having a too strong accent. Nevertheless, there a nice songs like “Dark
Witch“ or “Contract of Blood“ on board, too. Obviously, the album title is
pretty much appropriate…
MARTIN STARK
listen:https://youtu.be/hY5mx_kJx8I |
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SARAYA - When The Blackbird Sings (digitally remastered)
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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Starting out as
the band Alsace Lorraine, this lot would become one of the more popular hair
metal bands from the glory-days era. Based around the power duo Sandy Saraya and
axe-wizard Tony Bruno, the band would eventually change their name to Saraya and
released a classy debut record in 1989. Producer Peter Collins, who had worked
previously with Rush and Queensryche bought his technical skill into the mix for
the follow up "When The Blackbird Sings" (1991). Many punters were very
impressed with the final result, a big sounding guitar rocking album "WTBS.."
proved to be one of the best releases of 1991. Digitally remastered re-issue
from Bad Reputation records.
listen:https://youtu.be/IdW7RA-SLx0 |
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BANDIT - Partners In Crime (digitally remastered)
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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UK's Bandit are mostly
remembered for their connection to AC/DC, this time being the former band of
bassist, Cliff Williams. After Williams departed his prior band, Home, he and
vocalist Jim Diamond drafted a few other musicians for their new project,
Bandit. Arista Records were quick to show interest and by 1977, their
self-titled debut had hit record store shelves. Sales were slow and minimal,
prompting a return to the studio in 1978, which yielded "Partners In Crime".
Though the debut was bluesy hard rock, this album saw the band evolving toward a
softer AOR sound. Again sales were weak and when AC/DC requested Cliff's
services in 1979, he quickly bailed and Bandit were finished. Bad Reputation
re-issue.
listen:https://youtu.be/q1vQb0sUUz8 |
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DANNY DANZI - Tribulations
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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American singer and multi
instrumentalist DANNY DANZI is finally back with new material. “Tribulations“
offers fifteen melodic rock / hard rock tunes that tell the story of Danny and
the band as a loosely connected concept album. Mostly the guitars but also cool
melodies and exciting arrangements are in the center of attention, so several
fine rock moments can be found. “Forever“ is the ultimate teaser for this album.
MARTIN STARK |
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ERIC MARTIN - Eric Martin (digitally remastered)
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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This is an album from Eric Martin's solo career
before he joined Mr. Big. Highlights are the soulful mid-tempo "Information";
the relaxed but soulful balladry of "Just One Night"; and three numbers with
crunchy guitar and synthesizer: "Call Of The Wild", "Eyes Of The World", and "She's
Out For Blood". Journey's Neil Schon co-wrote a few of the tracks on this
collection. A great album by
one of Rock n Roll's best and most distinctive voices, featuring also
contributions from Waddy Wachtel, Randy Jackson, Steve Lukather plus a top notch
production from Danny Kortchmar/Greg Ladanyi. If you’re into a softer version of
early Michael Bolton/Stan Bush this solo debut from Eric Martin will be totally
up your alley. Rock Candy re-issue.
Watch:
https://youtu.be/d4V58ckKG9g |
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LOVERBOY - Get Lucky (digitally remastered)
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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Vancouver's slick Pop Rockers LOVERBOY became one of the most successful
Canadian acts in America with a string of multi platinum records and sell out
arena tours. Already their selftitled debut (1980) including the single hits
“Turn Me Loose” and “The Kid Is Hot Tonite” sold more than 2 million copies. The
follow up “Get Lucky”, which was produced again by Bruce Fairbairn (Bon Jovi),
got released in 1981 and followed exactly the paths of their double platinum
selling debut. With the first single release “Working For The Weekend” they
could score an even bigger single hit and secured their status of Canada’s best
selling melodic rock act ever. Rock Candy re-issue, digitally remastered.
Watch:
https://youtu.be/dsgBpsNPQ50 |
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LOVERBOY - Loverboy (digitally remastered)
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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Formed in
Vancouver in early 1980, Loverboy soon sought out major management and secured
help from Bruce Allen, BTO's long term manager. The band were formed by
experienced musicians from several well known acts; guitarist Paul Dean and Matt
Frenette had been members of Streetheart, keyboardist Doug Johnson was from
Fosterchild and vocalist Mike Reno came from hard rockers Moxy. Together with
producer Bruce Fairbairn they created a bright new style, with plenty of attack
and tough-guy guitar riffs. Songs such as ‘The Kid Is Hot Tonight’, ‘Always On
My Mind’ and ‘Turn Me Loose’ established the group as one of the best new
Canadian bands ever. Rock Candy re-issue, digitally remastered.
Watch:
https://youtu.be/TnHm4ro_l8s |
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BRITNY FOX - Boys In Heat (digitally remastered)
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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Originally released in 1989 the second BRITNY FOX album has
lost nothing of it’s class! In my opinion "Boys In Heat" is not only the
strongest album in the band's history, but also one of the best Sleaze Rock
albums ever coming from the USA. Songs, performance and the production by Neil
Kernon (Dokken, Aviator) are simply awesome! Driven by the raw lead vocals of
'Dizzy' Dean Davidson the band serves up a fireworks ranging from emotional
ballads ("Dream On") to hard-edged rockers ("In Motion", "She's So Lonely",
"Stevie"). No doubt, "Boys In Heat" is an essential for every Hard Rock fan!
Rock Candy re-issue, digitally remastered.
Watch:https://youtu.be/gQ9WgQ-R12Q |
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BRITNY FOX - Britny Fox (digitally remastered)
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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Formed in
Philadelphia during the mid ‘80s, the band’s roots were linked to an early
incarnation of future platinum sellers Cinderella. Britny recorded an impressive,
cassette only, album titled ‘In America’ that soon attracted attention both
locally and, surprisingly, internationally. The result of this success attracted
label interest, resulting in signing to Columbia records and the release of this,
their John Jansen produced debut album. Issued in 1988 the record made an
immediate impact with not only the public but also the hard rock taste makers.
Tracks such as the MTV favourites ‘Long Way To Love’, ‘Girlschool’ and ‘Fun In
Texas’ helped to propel the album to gold status. Rock Candy re-issue, digitally
remastered.
Watch:
https://youtu.be/8fAi8Jc2hrw |
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AVALON - Everyman A King +7 (digitally remastered)
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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AVALON were
quite an enigma. The band not so much exploded onto the scene but escaped via
the release of a four track EP issued on the Capitol label in 1982. Although its
marketing and promotion was low-key, the record caught the ears of dedicated
melodic rock fans. Entitled "Everyman A King", the record is produced by Blood,
Sweat & Tears drummer / Pages producer Bobby Colomby, and features the talents
of session players Vinnie Colaiuta, Mike Porcaro and Jai Winding, in addition to
band members Rick Neigher, Chris Cote and Mike Mirage. Combining the best bits
of Styx and 'Runaway' era Dakota, it's archetypal AOR, perhaps in it's purest
form. Rock Candy re-issue, digitally remastered, 7 bonus tracks.
Listen:
https://youtu.be/Mj-Rs3vvknE |
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MAD
ANTHONY - Party Heaven Hell Whatever!
(digitally remastered)
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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Hailing from
San Francisco, California, Mad Anthony was hands down the
best unsigned rock band of the mid-'80s packing massive
grooves and killer hooks from stacks of Marshall amps. Mad
Anthony was also all about a huge party, good times and first class sleazy hard
rock next to Guns'N'Roses, Mötley Crue and Warrant. The band released a 6 track
mini album on cassette (only) way back in 1987 which was produced by Steve
Fontano (Racer X, Vicious Rumours etc.). This digitally remastered re-issue has
been spiced up with 7 additional tracks from the vaults plus liner notes and
it's strictly limited to 500 copies. Eonian records - re-issue.
Listen:
https://youtu.be/DFsX-T1ozw8 |
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RINGS OF SATURN - Rings Of Saturn (digitally remastered)
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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Having already
made a name for himself with a variety of acts on the Hollywood, California
scene, singer, guitarist and keyboard player Billy Coane would form Rings Of
Saturn in January 1988. After a couple of line-up changes the band had a stable
line-up as a quartett in 1989 and became one of the hottest live acts in L.A.
They were close to get signed by Arista records, but the label decided to sign
Tomorrow's Child instead of ROS. Under this circumstances the band released
their debut album "Early Rings Of Saturn" in 1989 on the small indie label
Lawless Records. This digitally remastered re-issue contains the 10 tracks from
the 1989 album plus 4 bonus tracks. First class hair metal stuff, strictly
limited to 500 copies.
Listen:
https://youtu.be/5RwiZ9nnUQ0 |
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INGLORIOUS - Heroine
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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Frontman Nathan James (TRANS-SIBERIAN
ORCHESTRA) is top-notch for sure but on the previous efforts, the songwriting
didn’t reach the level of talent that James doubtless has. But: “Heroine“ is a
cover album, one that exclusively contains INGLORIOUS versions of female pop or
rock songs from e.g. WHITNEY HOUSTON (“Queen Of The Night“) to CYNDI LAUPER
(“Time After Time“) or ALANIS MORISETTE (“Uninvited“). Therefore, all cool!
MARTIN STARK
Watch:
https://youtu.be/GlzDIhtkxQU |
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ANETTE OLZON - Strong
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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Swedish vocalist (ex
NIGHTWISH, THE DARK ELEMENT) with her second solo effort and that is - like the
artwork already suggests - pretty heavy and rather dark. Songs written by Magnus
Karlsson (g, e.g. PRIMAL FEAR) and mix by Jacob Hansen (e.g. VOLBEAT, PRETTY
MAIDS). Not a bad effort but a mix of rather modern and harder sounds and a (deliberate?)
hint on her mighty NIGHTWISH past for the most part.
MARTIN STARK
Watch:
https://youtu.be/eEbQWMOPBO0 |
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BETWEEN WORLDS - Between Worlds
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B: 13 € |
B: 15,5 € |
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BETWEEN WORLDS is yet
another “project“ by Frontiers Music. Former METAL CHURCH Frontman Ronnie
Monroe, thanks to his stint with TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, is able to gather a
few guests from the SAVATAGE camp on this record. Produced by Alessandro Del
Vecchio (keys, HARDLINE). Cool record without huge surprises but showcasing one
of the best voices in the genre. Suitable for hard rock lovers!
MARTIN STARK
Watch:
https://youtu.be/2svl2NtGW4k |
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OSUKARU - 10/22
SIX SILVER SUNS - 10/22
NESTOR - 10/22
STATION - 10/08
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