The Spirit

 "Long live Magnum!"

 "The track 'A Face In The Crowd' cannot fail to move even the most demanding fan."

Magnum's fifteenth studio album, 'Into The Valley Of The Moonking,' marks a return to form with emotional and airy melodies. The review praises standout tracks, production quality, and the band's classic sound blended with modern touches. Longtime fans and melodic rock lovers will appreciate this elegant, passionate offering. Overall, it's deemed the band's best recent work, reaffirming Magnum's status in the AOR genre. Listen now to Magnum’s heartfelt melodies and experience their best album in years!

 Michael Sweet sounds like a 'metalized' version of Dennis DeYoung from Styx.

 If today it makes sense to talk about white metal, it is thanks to these four guys/missionaries and, above all, their incredible skill.

This review explores Stryper's 1985 album Soldiers Under Command, highlighting its powerful blend of heavy metal sound and Christian-inspired lyrics. The reviewer praises Michael Sweet's strong vocals and guitar skills, as well as Oz Fox's solos. The album's production and unique religious themes stand out, marking it as a foundational release in the Christian metal subgenre. Despite initial hesitation, the review affirms the album's skill and cultural significance. Listen to Soldiers Under Command and experience the pioneering spirit of Christian metal!

 A newfound hard rock grit magnificently marries with the prog sounds and especially fusion of their recent past.

 The classic track that justifies purchasing the album and, I dare say, the pinnacle of this incredible group’s entire discography.

Mind Exploding, released in 1976, marks a high point for Lucifer's Friend, blending hard rock, prog, and jazz-fusion. John Lawton's vocals shine throughout. The album summarizes the band's 70s musical evolution with complex arrangements and standout tracks like "Moonshine Rider" and "Yesterday's Ideals." It's praised as a pinnacle in their discography. Dive into Lucifer's Friend Mind Exploding and experience a masterful blend of prog, hard rock, and jazz-fusion!

 I press play and a distorted riff starts with a sharp and slightly dated sound... not punk but heavy metal and you can hear harmonizations that remind me of Thin Lizzy, but with a fury reminiscent of punk.

 Absolutely top-notch the guitar duo formed by Dave Murray and Dennis Stratton: fast and fluid the first, more bluesy the second.

The review explores Iron Maiden's 1980 debut album, highlighting its blend of heavy metal intensity and melodic complexity. The author shares a colorful story of discovering the record in a dusty, mysterious basement and praises key tracks and musicianship. The album is seen as a raw, energetic statement from a band knowing their craft. The review ends with enthusiasm and a plan to research further. Dive into Iron Maiden's legendary debut and experience the roots of heavy metal greatness today!

 Skyclad’s offering always represented a guarantee of quality and coherence with a unique style, unmatched and, if I may say, inimitable.

 Martin Walkyier’s ability both in composing never ordinary lyrics rich with amusing wordplay... and in modulating his voice, now cavernous and almost guttural... now clean and at times evocative.

Skyclad's 'Irrational Anthems' stands as a balanced and mature folk metal album from 1996, blending traditional heavy metal with original folk influences. The review highlights Martin Walkyier's sharp lyrics and compelling vocal delivery, alongside Georgina Biddle's distinctive violin work. The album showcases a variety of tracks that combine musical precision with engaging wordplay. Despite its quality, the album received limited attention, especially in Italy. Explore Skyclad's 'Irrational Anthems' and experience the unique fusion of folk and metal that defined an era.

 "James Neal's power and expressiveness wipe out most of today's Power singers in a handful of verses."

 "'Death Or Glory' is, in my opinion, the best track on the record, retrieved from the sessions of 'In The Beginning...' and strangely discarded at the time."

Malice's 'Crazy In The Night' EP captures a pivotal moment in the band's career with powerful vocals and rare tracks. Though released after the band's breakup, it features highlights like 'Captive Of Light' and the Priest-like 'Death Or Glory'. The review recommends exploring their earlier albums which have been reissued and remain definitive works for heavy metal fans. Explore Malice's powerful 'Crazy In The Night' EP and dive into classic 80s heavy metal today!

 Tony Clarkin has been composing wonderful music for more than three decades without ever repeating himself.

 'If I Could Live Forever' is one of their finest songs ever, showcasing brilliant Hard Rock acceleration within a ballad.

Magnum II, released in 1979, solidifies Magnum's distinctive melodic and symphonic hard rock style with strong progressive influences. Tony Clarkin's inspired songwriting shines through complex and memorable tracks like 'Great Adventure' and 'If I Could Live Forever.' The band delivers a well-balanced and mature performance, supported by excellent musicians including Bob Catley and Richard Bailey. The album continues to be celebrated through multiple reissues, preserving its legacy as a classic rock milestone. Explore Magnum II and experience a timeless journey through melodic and progressive rock excellence!

 I believe is (even more than the much more known "On A Storyteller's Night") their creative peak.

 "The Spirit," a true masterpiece of pompous Hard Rock introduced by a wonderful medieval folk part with a Catley deserving applause.

This review praises Magnum's 1982 album Chase The Dragon as their creative peak, highlighting the fusion of hard rock, pomp, and AOR. The keyboard work by Mark Stanway and powerful vocals by Bob Catley are emphasized, along with standout tracks like "The Spirit" and "Sacred Hour." The album is noted for its iconic artwork and hard-hitting compositions, making it a landmark release in Magnum's discography. Discover Magnum's iconic Chase The Dragon—listen now to experience a hard rock classic!

 "Arabia is the fourth and best album of the five Dutch hard-rockers... with truly original solutions and a pinch of healthy irony."

 "The title track begins with an Arabesque melody before exploding into a big riff supported by a drumbeat as simple as it is mighty; a track I wouldn’t hesitate to define as Epic Metal."

The review explores the discovery and enduring impact of Vengeance's fourth album 'Arabia,' praised as their best work. It highlights the band's 80s hard rock style, diverse tracks, and powerful vocals, especially Leon Goewie's unique voice. The album's blend of epic metal, playful tunes, and original elements makes it a standout. The CD reissue adds value with bonus covers and demos. Overall, 'Arabia' is recommended for fans of classic hard rock and metal. Dive into Vengeance's 'Arabia' and experience a timeless blend of hard rock and epic metal—perfect for true 80s rock lovers!

 "When 'Go Down Fighting' kicks in followed by the title track, the stereo speakers explode with all the energy and roughness that only old-school Metal knew how to unleash."

 "The schizophrenic voice of singer Vic Hix... finds fertile ground to ignite, um, to express itself at its best."

Shok Paris' second album 'Steel And Starlight' delivers powerful classic Heavy Metal rooted in 1980s influences like Riot and Judas Priest. The album balances energetic, melodic tracks with strong vocal performances by Vic Hix and impressive guitar work by Ken Erb and Eric Marderwald. Highlights include the intense 'Exhibit A' and the acoustic-inflected 'Castle Walls'. This underrated Cleveland band’s work remains a sought-after gem for old-school metal fans. Explore 'Steel And Starlight' and immerse yourself in this classic Heavy Metal powerhouse!