Heavy Metal Resource-Picks

This page was last updated on: October 1, 2026

Pick of the month for 9 - 2026

Kamelot-Dark Asylum

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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Kamelot has been a favorite of mine for a long time now. The records are all pretty solid so when it came to 'Dark Asylum' I bought without hesitation. In my opinion, the record lives up to their standard. I think this record is probably my most favorite since 'The Black Halo'. Music has the typical Kamelot feel, but I felt these songs were even better than the already great standard they set. If you are looking for a record with great storytelling, plenty of atmosphere and depth, then this record is definitely for you. Fans of metal and specifically symphonic will dig this one! Don't miss any of the titles below as they all represent the genre very nicely!

Been getting into these guys in the last few years. I love the variety in the music. The record has some really heavy stuff and a fair amount of electronic element as well. I thought songs were catchy and likeable from the start. It is definitely more for fans of modern rock and metal as well as metalcore. Good record!

For Fans of: Modern Hard Rock Website: Motionless In White Official Website

On the heavier side of the spectrum is Black Label Society's 'Engines Of Demolition'. Zakk always has a really mean sounding guitar tone and the music always benefits. I really liked the melodic stuff on this one as well. Plenty of atmosphere and 'Ozzy's Song' is a real gem. Very heartfelt tribute in my opinion. Very solid record!

For Fans of: Heavy Rock Website: Black Label Society Official Website

Another great record from the supergroup. Good heavier stuff fused with decent melodic elements. Songwriting is strong and performances are top notch. I really liked the flash especially in the guitar solos. If you dig bands in the style of Whitesnake and bands like that, Iconic is an easy recommend for you!

For Fans of: Hard Rock Website: Iconic Facebook

Another really good record from Issa. If you are familiar with her music, you will know what to expect here. She tends to write in the same formula which nets very good results. Each record is usually populated by good catchy melodic songs and even some lighter stuff that is usually quite good. An AOR essential!

For Fans of: Melodic Hard Rock Website: Issa Facebook

Took me a listen or two to figure this one out. This band features metal act Wind Rose's vocalist Francesco Cavalieri but is more of a synthwave/rock hybrid. Music is quite catchy and has the listener feeling like they are travelling down a retro highway. It's different, but quite effective in my opinion.

For Fans of: Rock/Synthwave Website: V.B.O. Facebook

One of my earliest metal bands from the 80's. Always dig their records. This one is no exception. It's exactly what you would expect. Metal record with very well crafted songs and performances. This band has been going at it for decades and you can just feel the confidence once again with this new record!

For Fans of: Metal Website: Armored Saint Official Website

I really dig Adelitas Way. I first caught them on the 'Home School Valedictorian' record and have been following ever since. The band has evolved and with the new record has a variety of guest musicians. This album is available through the band's website only as of now. Mine came personally signed even with the low cost. Great!

For Fans of: Modern Rock Website: Adelitas Way Official Website

Even though Primal Fear seemed to get a bit more attention, Mat Sinner brought the goods in his band Sinner. You hate to see the end of this band but here we are. This is a great final record. Superb guest musicians. Good quality songs and enough here to make it a memorable finish. Definitely worth your time!

For Fans of: Metal Website: Sinner Official Website

Excellent new release by the melodic rock band. Grand has become one of my favorite Frontiers artists and this album definitely solidifies that notion even more. The band have a sound reminiscent of the 80's melodic rock and AOR sound. Songs are well crafted and the listen is enjoyable start to finish. Very easy recommend!

For Fans of: Melodic Rock Website: Grand Official Website