Favourite rock and metal albums of 2021

My criteria for this list is albums that I buy or want to buy. I notice that over the last few years the number of albums in the playlist has increased. I don't know whether the music is getting better or whether I've been less selective. There are close to 666 songs in the 2021 playlist, it's a shame I couldn't quite make the magic number.

It was fun re-listening to this entire list from top to bottom. I marked them 'top 5' and 'top 3' as I went along and yes, there are more than 5 in the top 5. I couldn't put them in order.

Here's the full list roughly in release order:

Midnight Spell - Sky Destroyer

Viral - Viral  (very pleased to own this one on vinyl, in the top 5)

Rascal - Headed Towards Destruction (EP)

Bloody Hammers - Songs of Unspeakable Terror  (another top 5)

Steel Sword - The Steel Sword

Helstar - Clad in Black

Kramp - Gods of Death

Crystal Viper - The Cult

Septagon - We Only Die Once

Significant Point - Into the Storm

Witchseeker - Scene of the Wild

Mindless Sinner - Turn On The Power (2021)

Temtris - Ritual Warfare

Blaze Bayley - War Within Me

Full Moon - Night Calls

Flotsam and Jetsam - Blood in the Water (top 5)

Pharaoh - The Powers That Be

Iron Jaws - Declaration of War

Heavy Sentence - Bang to Rights (very pleased to own on vinyl, in top 5)

Lycanthro - Mark of the Wolf

Helloween - Helloween (it's so good to have all the Pumpkins together for a new studio album, but I'm not sure that this is particularly outstanding as a Helloween album. Happy to have it on clear vinyl.)

Generation Steel - The Eagle Will Rise

Gama Bomb - Thunder Over London EP

Sorceress of Sin - Constantine (top 3)

Gaslarm - Future Denied

Queen of Distortion - Checkmate

Thor - Alliance

Roxxcalibur - Lords of the NWOBHM

Dee Snider - Leave a Scar

Rage - Resurrection Day (top 3)

Axxelerator - Heads or Tails

A.D.4 - A.D.4

Malison - Death's Embrace

Portrait - At One with None

Seven Spires - Gods of Debauchery

Tales of the Old - Book of Chaos

Whyzdom - Of Wonders and Wars (Like Helloween, they're here by default, but this isn't my favourite Whyzdom album.)

Imago Imperii - A tale of darkness and hope

KKs Priest - Sermons of the Sinner

Phrenetix - Exuviae

Fallen Lillies - No Master For Lilly

Theatres des Vampires - In Nomine Sanguinis

Death Angel - The Bastard Tracks

Firewölfe - Conquer All Fear

Ültra Raptör - Tyrants 

Eldritch - Eos

Green Lung - Black Harvest

Death SS - Ten

Amulett - Glassbreaker

Thee Final Chaptre - So Let It Be Done

Gama Bomb : Speed Between the Lines on red vinyl

This recently popped up on my Discogs alert email and I managed to buy a brand new unopened copy from a seller in my country. 

I'm very pleased to have it as I already have a clear/splatter copy of the recent Sea Savage and I hope that in time I can score a copy of Untouchable Glory too (which may be my favourite of their full-length albums). 

It's apparently one of 250, it was plastic-wrapped, which I slit to open the gatefold and get at the record. It's such a pleasure to put a virgin record on the turntable and hear nothing but the needle drop. This is a heavy chunk of vinyl too and the sound is amazing. 

A real record like this is a much more special thing to have than a CD and certainly more so than the digital recording (however clean that sounds). It feels so good to be able to buy new and newish records on this format. I hope this isn't a passing fad and that more bands do it. 

If you love their sound (and what's not to love?) then you get 35 minutes of it. They're nothing if not consistent. There are some stand-out songs with quality lyrics; 666teen is my favourite. 

Metal Warriors (1983) and Paradox - Product of Imagination (1987)

A couple of recent additions to the vinyl collection and some observations. 

The first is another of the Ebony compilations which I'm actively collecting. Metal Warriors is EBON 11 (1983), the fourth of their compilations (as stated on the cover). Once again it has around a dozen tracks of varying style but based around the NWOBHM sound that Ebony liked. It has the trademark Ebony studio timbre -  not ridiculously trebley this time but there's something about the sound, particularly the vocals, that you'd recognise anywhere. (I think it may be Daryl Johnston's natural reverb chamber which he was very proud of.)

It has the feel of a bunch of bands getting their first break which is an appealing thing to me. Some of the bands did go on to bigger things, in particular Shy who appear on side one track one.  I have to say that this is probably the Ebony compilation that I have enjoyed the most on first listen, there are some really good tracks. 

I think this album is most notable for its excellent artwork - the best artwork of all of these compilations I think - I mean look at this... look at it!

A shout out to Garry Sharpe (the signature on the artwork appears to say GAZ). I don't know whether he's been responsible for more album covers - I would assume so judging by the quality of this one. I'd love to know more about his career.

According to Discogs, it was re-released on CD in 2002. I don't know whether it was remastered at all. My record plays really well though and I have a really good quality rip from it. 

Bought at the same time (because one UK seller happened to have two albums from my wantlist at the right quality and price) is Product of Imagination by Paradox (1987). They're not a band I was familiar with, although I may at one time have seen this cover while browsing the secondhand traders in Norwich. They're a German thrash metal band that remind me of Megadeth. It's a good listen, I feel that it will grow on me. 

Again the cover artwork is notable. I didn't notice it straight away but the signature is very familiar: 

- that's Joe Petagno, famous for the Motörhead covers among others, and some science fiction book covers. I really don't know what this cover shows. You can see some kind of demon face in there surrounded by horns / claws. There's a figure down in the corner looking very unconcerned, a landscape, maybe a city in the distance, and some celestial objects above. 

Two great records and two awesome covers. The kind that were intended to be viewed on a 12" x 12" record cover and look best that way.

Favourite Rock and Metal albums of 2020 so far

This is my own personal selection. You can read about my music tastes here, if those match yours, then you may agree with my choices. Let me know in the comments.

My entire 'Best Rock & Metal Albums of 2020' playlist is here on Spotify.

This page will grow as the year goes on.

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Rage - Wings of Rage

One of the first real new releases of the year and one of the highlights. Rage have been doing their thing since 1983 (if you count the first couple of releases as Avenger) and this is a very strong album. 

It includes a re-recording of their classic song Higher Than The Sky (known as HTTS2.0)

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Mindless Sinner - Poltergeist

You don't need to see the cutoff-denim-over-leather to see that the cover artwork graces some good old traditional heavy metal. Once again the band have been around since the 80s, but this time with long gaps.

Christer Göransson's vocals remind me of Steve Grimmet of Grim Reaper and the music is of that style too.

It's up there with last year's Riot City and Traveller releases and it's great that there are bands still writing and playing this timeless style of music.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Annihilator - Ballistic, Sadistic

Geoff Waters has been releasing Annihilator records since the late 80s and I don't understand why he hasn't had greater success.

I don't think this record digs its hooks into you quite as well as the previous album, For the Demented, but it's Annihilator and belongs in this list.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Hazzerd - Delirium

A newer band but compatriots of Annihilator (Canadian) are Hazzerd. It's no-nonsense, tight, old-school thrash with straight-to-the point vocals somewhere between the realms of singing and yelling.

I was looking forward to this after enjoying their previous and debut album, and it doesn't disappoint.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Lovebites - Electric Pentagram

There is no shortage of female-fronted power metal. The band looks more like Babymetal than Battle Beast but happily this has great songwriting and a distinctive vocal style I really like.

The opening track (embedded below) verges into the thrash arena

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Verikalpa - Tuoppitanssi

I am partial to a bit of folk / pirate / viking / troll metal and this is somewhere along those lines. The band are from Finland, this is their second album.
Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Seven Spires - Emerald Seas

I was also keen to hear this second album from Symphonic Metal band Seven Spires. Their previous album Solveig is an enduring favourite. I'm not sure yet whether this one matches up. But it has a fab cover and is certainly outstanding in this year's releases so  far.

Vocalist Adrienne Cowan has popped up in other places including the recent excellent album Signs of Wings from Sascha Paeth's Masters of Ceremony.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Burning Witches

This is the third album from the Swiss all-female heavy metal band and by far the most powerful. They've left behind some of the commercialness and headed in a slightly noisier, thrashier direction
Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

This 2020 list is still growing - check back regularly

Favourite Rock and Metal albums of 2019

This post is a little late but I hope you'll find it worth the wait.

You can read about my music tastes here, if those match yours, then you may agree with my choices. Let me know in the comments.

My 'Best Rock & Metal Albums of 2019' playlist is here on Spotify.

Flotsam and Jetsam The End of Chaos

This album, released early in the year, remained and remains possibly my favourite album of the year.

I noticed the band and became a fan when Jason Newstead left the band to join Metallica. I bought their first album, Doomsday for the Deceiver, loved it then and still love it.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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King Diamond - Songs for the Dead : Live at Graspop 

I rarely enjoy live albums as much as studio albums, but once in a while the performances and sound are so good that you can enjoy the album over and over for its own sake rather than acceptable renditions of the studio tracks with added audience sounds.

King Diamond is an extraordinary performer and he can pull it off live as well as in the studio. This is a performance of the entire Abigail album with some classic Mercyful Fate and King D thrown in.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Witchlords - Demons in the Dark

The sound of this album is a bit thin but it is independently-produced. You could see the tinny sound as reminiscent of the bands and time that Witchlords hark back to. But that's made up for with the quality of the songs. Musically it's fast old-school heavy metal / thrash metal with savage vocals.

It's a bit of a maverick but I love it and can't wait for a better-produced second album.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Traveler - Traveler

This is a must-have for fans of true, old-school heavy metal.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Amon Amarth - Berserker

Amon Amarth probably do Viking metal the best. They work hard and their live shows have good production value.

I'm not sure whether this album is as good as the previous alum, Jomsviking, but it certainly belongs in this list.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Paragon - Controlled Demolition

A new band to me although this German band have been around for a few years.

Not unlike a speedier version of Kreator.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Candlemass - The Door to Doom

As the name suggests, this Swedish band's music veers towards doom but it often has a bit of melody and groove too. A great mix.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Diamond Head The Coffin Train

UK Veterans Diamond Head need no introduction. This album rocks.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Gloryfull - Cult of Sedna

This is Great German heavy metal with hooky choruses and a suggestive cover.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Invicta - Halls of Extinction

Melodic thrash with growled vocals. First full-length album from this so-far unsigned Canadian band.

Not to be confused with Invictus who have a similar logo and are also excellent.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Riot City - Burn the Night

Good old-fashioned heavy metal which really drives along digging its hooks deep. For me this is in the top three of 2019 and hasn't paled after repeated listening.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Kryptos - Afterburner

melodic metal from India, fast in places, with growly vocals.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Vader - Thy Messenger

It helps that I saw Vader twice in 2018 or 2019 (with Testament and Annihilator. What a line-up) and really enjoyed their performance. They remind me very much of Venom without quite such a focus on Satan.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Paladin - Genesis

Very much in the mould of Priest / Maiden etc. Some growled vocals but mostly sung, and sung well with harmonies.

Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Asomvel - World Shaker

This band could easily do a Motorhead tribute act, they sound and even dress the part, but to their credit the material is original and very good.
Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Anthrocene - Nucleation

Another debut full-length from a Seattle heavy / power metal band. A mix of clean and growled vocals, story-based songs.
Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Hellfire-Mania

Good old-fashioned heavy metal / thrash
Read the reviews and buy on Amazon

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Destruction - Born to Perish

There's more than a passing resemblance to Kreator and that's not a bad thing. Also from Germany, also on Nuclear Blast.
Read the reviews and buy on Amazon



































Still under construction, check back soon

This One Goes to Eleven :: Episode 24 :: Rock and Metal playlist :: 9 Dec 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 24 of this rock and traditional metal playlist.

There's a text link just below to a playlist that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the permanent playlist for episode 24. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )



- Shirley Knott






For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.

This One Goes to Eleven :: Episode 23 :: Rock and Metal playlist :: 1 Dec 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 23 of this rock and traditional metal playlist.

There's a text link just below to a playlist that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the permanent playlist for episode 23. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )



- Shirley Knott


Preaching to the Converted by Artillery from The Face of Fear (2018) New release from veteran thrashers

Evil Within by Hitten from Twist of Fate (2018) Spanish metal

Demolition Man by Flotsam and Jetsam (2018) I don't usually bother with singles and wait for the album. But I'm very excited about the forthcoming album that this is presumably from.

Fever Dreams by Dio from Magica (2000) 

Blade of Cimmeria by Gatekeeper from East of Sun (2018) Swords and sorcery

Spre Vingene by Einjerjer from Norrone Spor (2018) Viking metal

Breaking the Law by Judas Priest from British Steel (1980)

Save Me, ptII by Holter from Vlad the Impaler (2018)  I guess this is a prequel to the Dracula-inspired Swing of Death album he made with Jorn Lande in 2014

In the Walls by Seven Kingdoms from Decennium (2017) This band, as you might guess from their name, is usually singing songs about the Game of Thrones universe, but this one is I believe based on the Lovecraft story.

Death Knell for a King by Satan from Cruel Magic (2018) One of the best albums of this year.

All Hell is Breaking Loose by Blitzkrieg from Judge Not! (2018)

All Hell's Breaking Loose by Kiss from Lick it Up (1983) The title connection is an excuse to include a Kiss classic.

Tranquility by Frosttide from Decadents - Enshrined (2018) melodic death / folk metal

Blood Brothers by Wolfpakk from Wolves Reign (2017) Two guys and lots of guests, this one includes  Biff Byford (Saxon) on vocals

Macabre Procession of Specters by Hexx from Wrath of the Reaper (2017) a great recent album from veteran traditional metal band.

Symptathy for the Devil by Motörhead from Under Cöver (2017) posthumous release, great cover of classic song.


For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.

This One Goes to Eleven :: Episode 22 :: Rock and Metal playlist :: 25 Nov 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 22 of this rock and traditional metal playlist, there's a good mix of new and old this time.

There's a text link just below to a playlist that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the permanent playlist for episode 22. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )




- Shirley Knott


Die by the Sword by Accept from Symphonic Terror, Live from Wacken 2017  This was a historic performance, partly traditional and new material from Accept, and partly Wolf doing his symphonic thing with a full orchestra on a festival stage.

Can I play with Madness from Seventh Son by Iron Maiden (1988) I wasn't convinced by this album at the time. I felt they'd lost the magic when they released Somewhere in Time. This was certainly an improvement on SiT and it has aged very well for me.

High Risk by Blade Killer from High Risk (2018) A killer release from this week's crop.

Message at the Tone by Mark Zavon from Mark Zavon (2018)  

The Elders by Skyrider from Volume 1 (2018) debut EP from a bunch of young puppies with very tight trousers.

Flight of the Warrior by Riot V from Thundersteel (1988) as classic as it gets

Rough Rider by Substratum from Permission to Rock (2018) 

Needles in the Dark by Pretty Maids from Future World (1987)

Black Sunday by Jag Panzer from Ample Destruction (1984) Apologies for what sounds like a commercial at the end of this song, I can't decide whether it's a parody.

Franz Weiss by Die Apokalyptischen Reiter from Der Rote Reiter (2017)

What about Yesterday by Reece from Resilient Heart (2018)

Alegria by Nita Strauss from Controlled Chaos (2018)  Released last week to much excitement from me

Twilight of the Thunder God by Amon Amarth from The Pursuit of Vikings (Live, Summer Breeze) (2018)

Heavier than Metal by Skull Fist from Heavier than Metal (2010)

Possession by Burning Witches from Hexenhammer (2018)




For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.

This One Goes to Eleven :: Episode 21 :: Rock and Metal playlist :: 18 Nov 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 21 of the usual mix of rock and metal, new and old. Mostly new this week, there is a great crop of new album releases.

There's a text link just below to a playlist that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the permanent playlist for episode 21. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )




- Shirley Knott


I've not written notes yet, due to being away all weekend. I may add some during the week.


For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.

This One Goes to Eleven :: Episode 20 :: Rock and Metal playlist :: 11 Nov 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 20 of the usual mix of rock and metal, new and old. There are quite a few great new releases this week. The list also includes some classics which are anti-war, as this is the 100th anniversary of the end of the first world war. My notes are down below.

There's a text link just below to a playlist that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the permanent playlist for episode 20. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )



- Shirley Knott


Executed by Burning Witches from Hexenhammer (2018)  Possibly my favourite release this week, although it's a difficult call.

The Lost Battalion by Sabaton from The Last Stand (2016)  This is the song that famously used various gunshot sounds for the percussion. The story is amazing. At one point the lost soldiers found themselves under fire from their own side and sent a pigeon with a message that said "for heaven's sake, stop it". Very British.

Hold the Flame by Air Raid from Across The Line (2017) A quite recent album that sounds like it's come from the 80s

Run Like Hell by PallBearer from The Wall (Redux) (2018)  I was excited about this album. It includes all songs from The Wall  (seemingly all songs, those that were in the film but not on the album and vice versa). Each is performed by a different band, odd bands such as the Melvins and Sasquatch. A couple of the tracks rock, including this one.

 I'm a Ratt by Stephen Pearcy from View To a Thrill (2018)  He's had a bit of bad press for appearing 'ratted' on stage but I like the album. It really does sound like Ratt, as you'd expect, and why not.

I Love Ya Too Much Baby by Ted Nugent from The Music Made Me Do It (2018)  I used to have a 'Nuge' album, but didn't really know much about him. The only song I could have named was Cat Scratch Fever, which bizarrely seems to appear on this album as Backstrap Fever. If anyone knows what's going on there, let me know in the comments.

Ink & Water by Red Dragon Cartel from Patina (2018)  This is Jake E Lee's project. I have enjoyed previous albums but struggled to find much in this one that excited me. This one curiously has a bit of Cracked Actor and Happy Together mashed together.

Total Recall by Dire Peril from The Extraterrestrial Compendium (2018)  This album really reminds me of Helion Prime with its powerful riffs, strong clean vocals and sci-fi themes.

Method to your Madness by Metal Church from The Dark (1986) An anti-war song from the second album by this classic band.

Metal Blitzkrieg by Black Viper from Hellions of Fire (2018)  Good solid old-school speed / thrash.

Disposable Heroes by Metallical from Master of Puppets (1986)  A self-explanatory anti-war song from the masters of thrash metal and arguably their best album.

Heart and Soul by Michael Schenker Fest from Resurrection (2018)  A bit of self-indulgance as I was fortunate enough to see the great guitarist this week. The album and the tour features no less than four of the vocalists that he's worked with over the years. On this track it's Robin McAuley, who still hits the high notes apparently effortlessly. They weren't just being their own tribute act, the new material is really good and this album is a favourite of 2018 for me.

Lights Out by UFO from Lights Out (1977) Michael Schenker joined UFO as a teenager and has writing credit for many of their songs including this one.

Coast to Coast by Scorpions from Lovedrive (1979) Schenker is credited with playing lead guitar with the Scorpions on this album (his brother Rudi is one of the founder members of Scorps). He claims to have had a hand in writing the songs too but gets no writing credit on the album cover. Scorpions were the band I wore on my back as a teen and this is a great album.



That's the list for this week.

For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.

This One Goes to Eleven :: Episode 19 :: Rock and Metal playlist :: 3 Nov 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 19 of the usual mix of rock and metal, new and old. There aren't many great new releases this week, as is usual for the first week of the month, but plenty of great stuff including a lot of old-school thrash. My notes are down below.

There's a text link just below to a playlist that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the permanent playlist for episode 19. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )



- Shirley Knott


Back at the Funny Farm by Motörhead from Another Perfect Day (1983) a different-sounding  Motorhead album thanks to guitarist Brian Robertson who only appears on this one MH album. This is the opening track.

Two from classic metallers Skull Fist, one from a just-released album and one from their debut

You Belong To Me by Skull Fist from Way of the Road (2018)
Heavier than Metal by Skull Fist from Heavier than Metal (2010)

Woman Time by Tenacious D from Post-Apocalypto (2018)  This epic album is the soundtrack of their Youtube animated series. It's just what you'd expect; superb music, silly themes, skits with lots of swearing.

Hold the Flame by Air Raid from Across the Line (2017) The perfect compliment to Skull Fist, a relatively new band doing classic NWOBHM stuff.

Twilight of the Thunder God by Amon Amarth  from Twilight of the Thunder God (2008) Actual real-life vikings

Freja's Choice by Grand Magus from Sword Songs (2016) Continuing the Norse mythology. I saw Grand Magus supporting Amon Amarth but unfortunately missed most of their set because they were third on a bill of three and must have started just as the doors opened.

Seven Seals by Testament from Brotherhood of the Snake (2016)  Testament were on the same bill that night, supporting Amon Amarth and promoting this album which is my top album from 2016.

Seventh Seal by Flotsam and Jetsam from Flotsam and Jetsam (2016) Possibly a nod to Testament in this track. Although this track is from a recent album, F & J  go back to the eighties and kindly donated bass player Jason Newstead to Metallica after the tragic death of Cliff Burton.

Sect of the Serpent by Terrifier from Weapons of Thrash Destruction (2017) Is this also a nod to Brotherhood of the Snake?

Nemesis by Arch Enemy from Doomsday Machine (2005) Not the obvious track from AE. This is from a 2005 album, with pre-Alissa White-Gluz vocalist Angela Gossow.

Painkiller by Judas Priest from Painkiller (1990) Bringing things smoothly around to classic material

The Prisoner by Iron Maiden from Number of the Beast (1982) And full-circle back to the early 80s. This isn't an obvious track from the album but one of my favourites, obviously a tribute to the brilliant Patrick McGoohan TV series.




That's the list for this week.

For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.

This One Goes to Eleven :: Rock and Classic Metal playlist :: Episode 18 :: 28 Oct 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 18 of the usual mix of rock and metal, new and old. There's more appropriate halloween stuff this week and loads of new releases making a longer playlist than usual, you lucky people.  My notes are down below and if you spot any connections that I haven't, or have suggestions for future playlists, leave them in the comments and earn yourself some kudos.

There's a link just below to a playlist that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the permanent playlist for episode 18. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )



- Shirley Knott

The Last Vampire by Hollywood Vampires from Hollywood Vampires (2015)  A spine-tingling spoken word piece featuring the immortal Christopher Lee.

Bark at the Moon by Ozzy from Bark at the Moon (1983)  Lycanthropic fun from the Prince of Darkness himself.

Seven Gables to Ash by Them from Manor of the Se7en Gables (2018)  If 'Them' looks and sounds like a King Diamond tribute act then that's because they did start out that way. This is a stunning offering of original material with enough of an original sound for the band and album to stand in its own right.

King Diamond has influenced so many, Here are a couple more:

Burn the World by Portrait from Burn the World (2017)

Sanctimonious by Attic from Sanctimonious (2017)


Hearts of Stone by Fifth Angel from The Third Secret (2018) A great new album from an American band that goes all the way back to 1983 (albeit with a long break)

The Alchemist by Triple Kill from Age of Rebellion (2018)  Debut album from Australian speed metal band. Great stuff.

The Contract by Ironflame from Tales of Splendor and Sorrow (2018)  American power metal, second album

The Hunt by Iron Lamb from Blue Haze (2018)  From Ironflame to Iron Lamb. I used to think that Iron Lamb were influenced by Motorhead, it's not so obvious but still there.

Dr. Stein by Helloween from Keeper of the Seven Keys pt 2 (1988)  A classic song from the classic Helloween Lineup featuring Kiske and Hansen. Musically epic, lyrically fun and Halloween-appropriate.

Red and White by Derdian from DNA (2018) An album from earlier this year and definitely in my end-of-year list

Excalibur by Stormwitch from Walpurgis Night (1984)  Classic '80s metal, the horror themes are present in the album if not in this track.

White Witch by Angel Witch from Angel Witch (1980) More vintage stuff

Yakuza by Katana from The Greatest Victory (2015)  Swedish classic metal

Season of the Black by Rage from Seasons of the Black (2017) Not sure what's with the teeth on this band's mascot, they look scary but impractical

Gone Wild by Blizzen from Genesis Reversed (2015)  First commercial full-length from German heavy / speed metal band

The Flood by Icarus Witch from Goodbye Cruel World (2018) Setting out to revive traditional heavy metal, IW have mellowed a little

Chainsaw Charlie by W.A.S.P from The Crimson Idol (1992)  WASP have recently been performing this album live against a backdrop of a special black-and-white film.




That's the list for this week.

For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.

This One Goes to Eleven :: Rock and Classic Metal playlist :: Episode 17 :: 20 Oct 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 17 of the usual mix of rock and metal, new and old. There's plenty of good stuff from this week's releases and plenty of classic metal from the 80s.  Read my notes for the lowdown and if you spot any connections that I haven't, or have suggestions for future playlists, leave them in the comments and earn yourself some kudos.

There's a link just below to a playlist that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the permanent playlist for episode 17. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )



- Shirley Knott


Under Jolly Roger by Running Wild from Under Jolly Roger (1987) Possibly the original pirate metal band, taking it all very seriously and still doing it just as well today.

Torches Ablaze by Speedtrap from Straight Shooter (2015)  Recent but classic-sounding speed metal

I am Eternal by Green Death from Hallowmass (2018) One of my favourites of the week's releases and a very Halloween-styled album, although not so obvious in this particular track.

Dynamite by Scorpions from Blackout (1982) One of the tracks I've heard this week reminded me of this Scorpions track, but now I can't find which one. But Dynamite is going in anyway because they were a favourite band of mine and this is such a good track. There are always new things to learn. I'd always assumed that guitarist Rudy Schenker posed for the picture on the cover of this album. He does dress as the character in the video for a song from a later album (and I've seen him do it on stage). But no, the picture is a self-portrait by artist Gottfried Helnwein.

Lover, Leaver (Taker, Believer) by Greta Van Fleet from Anthem of the Peaceful Army (2018) I've been looking forward to this new album from Led Zep soundalikes. But I'm not sure that it lives up to the previous work. Or maybe they're just developing in a more mellow direction.

Chaos Unity by Final Breath from Of Death and Sin (2018)  Another good album from this week's crop. Good old thrash metal (with a black theme if the cover is anything to go by).

Eternal Solstice by Sacral Rage from Beyone Celestial Echoes (2018) And another great thrash metal release. You can't help thinking of King Diamond here, so....

Evil by Mercyful Fate from Melissa (1983) The King himself from an early Fate album.

Princess of the Night by Saxon from Denim and Leather (1981) There's an interview in the current Metal Hammer with Biff Byford about this steam-train-related song. In it he claims that Metallica have cited Saxon as an influence, and says that he can hear this on Seek and Destroy.

Seek and Destroy by Metallica from Kill 'Em All (1983)  The said track. I'm not really hearing Saxon except for a little chord sequence in the middle of POTN which does sound like "searchin', seek and destroy"   but hey, it's all good.

H.B. is in Control by Clutch from Book of Bad Decisions (2018)  Very bluesy / southern stuff.

Fox Chase by Blackfoot from Tomcattin' (1980)  Because the Clutch track reminded me of Blackfoot and this is one of my favourites.

Black Wind, Fire and Steel by Manowar from Fighting the World (1987)  They claimed it was true metal and I wouldn't argue with them.




That's the list for this week.

For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.

This One Goes to Eleven :: Rock and Metal playlist :: Episode 16 :: 13 Oct 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 16 of the usual mix of rock and metal, new and old. On the 13th of the month it seems appropriate to start mixing some Halloween-inspired choices with the new releases.   Read my notes for the lowdown and if you spot any connections that I haven't, or have suggestions for future playlists, leave them in the comments and earn yourself some kudos.

There's a link just below to a playlist that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the permanent playlist for episode 16. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )




- Shirley Knott

Last Halloween by Jyrki 69 from Helsinki Vampire (2017) An atmospheric start from lead vocalist of Finnish Band The 69 Eyes

The Wicker Man by Iron Maiden from Brave New World (2000) I watched the film again recently. What a great performance by Edwoodwoodwood and a haunting story. This album marked the return to the Iron Maiden fold by Bruce Dickinson and broke the curse of the previous two albums. It's a shame that the employment of Blaze Bayley didn't work out, he's a great vocalist and much closer to Paul Di'Anno than Brucie.

Walpyrgus Nights by Walpyrgus from Walpyrgus Nights (2017) melodic classic metal, a very enjoyable album with horror themes.

The Fighter by Those Damn Crows from Murder and the Motive (2018)  Hard Rock, reminding me of Thunder in places

Necropolis by Manilla Road from Crystal Logic (1983) Mark Shelton's (RIP) project had somehow passed me by but I'm glad I've discovered it now. Crystal Logic appears to be the most popular album. For something more thrashy, check out Out of the Abyss

Re-Animator by Arkham Witch from I am Providence (2015) Arkham Witch are delightful, they mix Lovecraft-inspired lyrics with lighthearted music somewhere between classic metal and punk ("2-3-4!")

Fire Again! by Vanik from Vanik (2016)  Another horror-inspired band. I'm looking forward to a new album out a little later this year.

Brunin by Skalmold from Sorgir (2018) A new release from slightly folky Icelandic metal band.

Hypocrisy by Impellitteri from The Nature of the Beast (2018)  This new release features new material and a couple of covers with Chris Impellitteri's fast shredding style.

Brother by Live from Local 717 (2018)

Pole to Pole by Nazareth from Tattooed on My Brain (2018) Veterans Nazareth are celebrating 50 years with a new album and new line-up. Long-time vocalist Dan McCafferty has passed the mic briefly to Linton Osbourne and now to Carl Sentance. I'm not sure that I'm keen on the new sound and I don't think the songwriting is strong, which is a shame.

Fire up by Verni from Barricade (2018) solo album (with guests) from D D Verni of Overkill

Kurt Russell by Gama Bomb from Speed Between The Lines (2018) I've been looking forward to this album. I love the quirky title of this track, and I'm sure I heard 'Walpyrgus Night' in the lyrics

 Armed and Ready by Michael Schenker Group (1980) Opening song from first album by MSG





That's the list for this week.

For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.

This One Goes to Eleven :: Rock and Metal playlist :: Episode 15 :: 7 Oct 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 15 of the usual mix of rock and metal, new and old. This week there's a lot of terrific eighties stuff with some of the best tracks from this week's new album releases.   Read my notes for the lowdown and if you spot any connections that I haven't, or have suggestions for future playlists, leave them in the comments and earn yourself some kudos.

There's a link just below to a playlist that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the permanent playlist for episode 15. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )

- Shirley Knott




Man on the Edge by Iron Maiden from The X Factor (1995)  Bruce briefly left Iron Maiden, the band chose Blaze Bailey as his replacement. I'd seen BB with his band Wolfsbane in the late 80s (Supporting King Diamond) and it remains one of the best support act performances I've seen. He has a fantastic voice, much closer to Paul Di'Anno than Bruce Dickinson and this should have been a match made in heaven but unfortunately the two Maiden albums he fronted were decidedly lacklustre. This is one of the highlights with lyrics based on Falling Down, the mad Michael Douglas film.

Killing Machine by Wolfsbane from Did it for the Money (2012)  Blaze with Wolfsbane. Unfortunately Spotify don't have Wolfsbane's first album otherwise I would have included a track from that.

Are You Here by Blaze Bayley from The Redemption of William Black (Infinite Entanglement Part II) (2018) The third in the Blaze Bayley triple-bill is from a very recent solo album, the third in a series which tell a ponderous space adventure.

Hurricanado by Evil Scarecrow from Chapter IV:Antartarctica (2018)  I had the pleasure of witnessing the band kicking off the tour for this album last night in their home town of Nottingham. As is often the case with parody bands, the music is better than many who take themselves seriously.

The Sails of Charon by Scorpions from Taken By Force (1977) The Scorpions were without doubt my favourite band as a teen. This is the last studio album featuring the first lead guitarist Uli Jon Roth. The change of guitarist marked two distinct Scorpions eras. This is a slightly leftfield track but UJR's influence is clear.

Queen of New Orleans by Jon Bon Jovi from Destination Anywhere (1997) This solo album is a little bit pop (even more so than his band Bon Jovi) but I do still like this track.

Undying Evil by Enforcer from From Beyond (2015) Timeless old-school metal

Young Lust by Aerosmith from Pump (1989) This remains my favourite Aerosmith album. A career peak, possibly.

Fly on the Wall by AC/DC from Fly on the Wall (1985) From the fourth Brian Johnson album. It's only my opinion but I can't help feeling that they lost their way a little after this album. A few good singles followed but a lot of filler too.

Sweet Child O'Mine by Guns 'n' Roses from Appetite (1987) An obvious track but still great

Take a Shit and get Hit by Lizzies from On Thin Ice (2018)  The album is the second full-length from Spanish all-female NWOBHM-style band. The song is actually called 'Talk Shit and Get Hit' but it's always amusing when a girl says 'take a shit' because we don't... obviously.

Locust Plague by Hammer King from Poseiden will Carry Us Home (2018)  I'm not sure how serious the band takes itself but it features Ross the Boss vocalist Titan Fox

Red Hot by Mötley Crüe from Shout at the Devil (1983) 

Helter Skelter by Vow Wow from VIBe (1988) This Beatles cover (believe it or not) also featured on Crue's Shout at the Devil

Iron Maiden by Flotsam and Jetsam from Flotsam and Jetsam (2016) What better than to finish with some real thrash, and a connection with the band that we started with (but only in the song title). It's so good when a classic band come up with killer new material. Such a killer album that they named it after the band. (or maybe they just couldn't think up a title, who knows).





That's the list for this week.

For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.

This One Goes to Eleven :: Rock and Metal playlist :: Episode 14 :: 29 Sep 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 14 of the usual mix of rock and metal, new and old. The NWOBHM is strong with this week's list, some old tracks and some new ones in the same style.   Read my notes for the lowdown and if you spot any connections that I haven't, or have suggestions for future playlists, leave them in the comments and earn yourself some kudos.

There's a link just below to a playlist that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the permanent playlist for episode 14. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )

- Shirley Knott





Get Out by Hypnos from Set Fire to the Sky (2018)  A recent release but sounding very classic 70s and 80s rock / metal. Swedish band, now four albums in.

Race with the Devil by Girlschool from Demolition (1980)  One of the most classic songs from one of the most classic bands.

Rough Ride by Avenger by Blood Sports (1984)  Newcastle band, label mates (Neat Records) with the mighty Venom

Bound By Silence by Metal Allegiance (2018) Another track from this new album from the supergroup, this time featuring John Bush on lungs.

You Belong To Me by Skull Fist (2018) Such a new release that the album isn't out yet, this is the second of two singles so far from the forthcoming album.

Chasing the Dream by Skull Fist (2014) The second of a double-bill from Skull Fist.

Genie's Got a Problem from The Cruel Intentions from No Sign of Relief (2018)  pop-punk crossover.

Bier, Bier, Bier ist die Seele vom Klavier by Onkel Tom from Bier Ernst (2018)  I have to confess that I love the folky metal from Germany (see also Korpiklaani, Schandmaul, Die Apokalyptischen Reiter and many others). Onkel Tom is a new one on me but I'm glad I spotted the album release this week.

Steel and Silver by Visigoth from Conquerer's Oath (2018)  only the second album from American power-metal band.

Let it Loose by Savage from Loose 'n' Lethal (1983)  This is one of the bands featured on Metal Fatigue from Ebony, one of two 'taster' compilation appearances the band made before beginning their run of full-length albums with debut Loose 'n' Lethal. Ebony Records' strength was talent-spotting.

The Wolverine by Night Viper from Night Viper (2015)  We're getting close to Halloween now! Closer to the time I'll do a Halloween special playlist. In the meantime this is a taster from female-fronted Gothenberg band, compatriots of Hypnos, our opener this week.

The Doomsday Clock by Satan from Cruel Magic (2018)  This is another track from an album that came out a week or two. It'll in my list of favourite albums of the year. A great sound and disturbing cover image.

Deuce by Kiss from Alive (1975)  This album came up in a conversation with a friend about classic live albums. On the whole I'm not a fan of live performances, but my favourite all-time albums include some amazing live albums (Tokyo Tapes by Scorpions, If You Want Blood by AC/DC, Alive by Kiss, No Sleep Till Hammersmith by Motörhead  Live Evil by Black Sabbath (RJD era) to name a few). Sometimes the performances and atmosphere outshine the studio originals.  If you like this track, there's worthwhile black and white footage of the band performing the song.

Creatures of the Night by Kiss from Creatures of the Night (1982)  Second in a double-bill from Kiss, this one a little more recent (though I realise with some horror that the time since this track is two or three times that since Creatures.... ). As Paul used to say when they played this live "this is the album you put on when you want to turn your brain to jelly". From memory this was the last album before they took their make-up off. It's sad that they're doing shows now with make-up on, and with band members wearing Peter Criss and Ace Frehley faces. They should be leaving that stuff for the tribute bands IMHO.

Carry On by Avenged Sevenfold from Black Reign (2018)  The Stage is a brilliant album which was released to everyone's surprise with no publicity. It seems that they've done the same thing with this EP. (I saw none and came across the release by accident).

Hungry and Angry by U.D.O from Steelfactory (2018)  Another track from the Godfather's recent album.

Welcome Home (Sanitorium) by Metallica from Master of Puppets (1986) The last Cliff Burton album, and arguably their best album. Certainly one of my favourites of all-time and this track is epic.




That's the list for this week.

For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.

Metal Fatigue, Ebony Records' first compilation

I've just added this to my Ebony collection and I'm really chuffed with it. Its number is EBON1 which I assume means that it's the first of such compilations to issue forth from Darryl Johnson's stable.

First impressions are that the sound is remarkably good. The guitars sound very real and present, it's not the tinny distant sound heard on many Ebony releases. I'd love to know the technical reason for that.

It's a compilation of up-and-coming (at the time) bands. There's little to be found on many of the bands here, but one track is by Savage, who made some commercial full-length releases on the same label and then others.

As with the many compilations of this type, some of the songs sound amateurish, some much more professional and some of the songwriting is surprisingly good. It's a delightful listen throughout.

I really enjoyed my first listen of this record, it's a rewarding listen if you like NWOBHM / classic / 80s metal.

This One Goes to Eleven :: Rock and Metal playlist :: Episode 13 :: 22 Sep 2018

Welcome back, or just welcome if it's your first time, for Episode 13 (lucky for some) of the usual mix of rock and metal, new and old. This week's list reaches all the way back to 1971 with a classic Sabbbath track, plus there's a track from an excellent brand new album from veteran rockers Uriah Heep.   Read my notes for the lowdown and if you spot any connections that I haven't, or have suggestions for future playlists, leave them in the comments and earn yourself some kudos.

There's a link just below that you can and should subscribe to, and it will change and contain the latest selections each week. Below that is the playlist for episode 13. You can find all previous episodes / playlists by exploring the previous posts on this blog.

I think you have to click through to the Spotify app to listen to the songs in full. Underneath all that are my notes from this episode.

(Here is a link to the playlist that you need to subscribe to for the new episode each week )

- Shirley Knott




Mind Your Manners by Slash / Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators from Living the Dream (2018) An eagerly-anticipated new album from the killer combo of Slash with Myles Kennedy.

Victim of Fate (live) by Kai Hansen and friends from Live at Wacken (2017) a classic song from the first Helloween album with guest vocals from Gamma Ray vocalist Frank Beck

Unisonic by Unisonic from Unisonic (2012) Great material from the classic combo of Kiske / Hansen

Hardwired by Metallica from Hardwired (2016)

Fire Again by Vanik from Vanik (2016) A recent BandCamp discovery, apparently there is a new album imminent which I'm looking forward to. Classic metal with horror themes.

Suicide Blues by Hard Riot from The Blackened Heart (2014)  I don't know very much about this band except that I like them a lot.

Be My Wench by Omen from Battle Cry (1984)  Classic stuff

Spread Your Wings by Maurauder from Bullethead (2016)  Connection with the last track is vocalist Nikos Antonoyiannakis who is in both bands but not on the last track (although it sounds like him).

No Escape by Night Viper from Exterminator (2017)  Gothenburg band with vocalist Sofie-Lee Johansson definitely punching above her weight.

Devil's Child by WitchFyre from Grimorium Verum (2018)  Spanish black metal

Knocking at your Back Door by Deep Purple from Perfect Strangers (1984) a song about visiting a friend's house, apparently.

Digital Bitch by Black Sabbath from Born Again (1983) the second of a trio of Ian Gillan tracks. He seems a slightly incongruous choice for Sabbath vocalist, but it worked exceptionally well, if only for one outstanding album.

Future Shock by Gillan from Futureshock (1981)  Here's Ian Gillan with his own band including the legend that is John McCoy (McCoy, Mammoth).

Grazed by Heaven by Uriah Heep from Living the Dream (2018)  Two rock / metal albums out this week called Living the Dream?  This one was the surprise for me. I knew I'd enjoy it but didn't know I'd enjoy it quite so much. It's a keeper and up there in the favourite albums of the year. Those who enjoy a bit of psychadelic rock will enjoy it, and those who don't will probably still enjoy the album. It rocks.

Wheels from Hell by Leverage from The Devil's Turn (2018) More Scandinavian metal.

Children of the Grave by Black Sabbath from Master of Reality (1971) An epic to finish. Sneaking in another Sabbath, but the original line-up this time.



That's the list for this week.

For all of the best rock and metal new releases, subscribe to my New Rock and Metal Album Releases playlist.