Heavy Metal Resource-Picks

This page was last updated on: March 31, 2025

Pick of the month for 3 - 2025

Arion-The Light That Burns The Sky

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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'The Light That Burns The Sky' is Arion's fourth album today and what a banger it is. We checked out a couple of the band's releases and they are always impressive, but it was obvious how far this band has progressed and evolved since the early days. At it's core, it's still the Arion you know and love, but that album contains some of the band's strongest songs to date. Melodic metal music that is very dynamic and has a certain degree of polish to it without losing the gritty edge. There have been some absolutely great albums to come out this year and to take the top spot shows how these albums are just at the next level. If you are looking for something that retains it's melody, but isn't afraid to turn it on in terms of intensity, check this band and album out. Essential stuff! Definitely don't miss any of the titles below as they all represent the genre very nicely!

It looked Hietala was leaving the public life for good a few years back, but lucky for us, the former Nightwish member returns with a banger of a solo album. The album has a great vibe and in places feels quite unique. It's not only his vocals, but the music itself. Makes for a very fresh sounding listen and musical journey!

For Fans of: Heavy Rock Website: Marko Hietala Official Website

Just released and fabulous new album from Robin. I was familiar with him going back to Grand Prix, but was a huge fan when he was in McAuley Schenker Group. That is where I became a rabid fan and have been staying on top of his music. This is a slab of melodic hard rockers that offers up some flash in places. Excellent!

For Fans of: Hard Rock Website: Robin McAuley Facebook

A really fun new record which I believe is the band's 5th overall. The band offer a melodic metal style with some decent intensity in places. Definite retro feel in places, but you can also sense some more modern influences as well. It was my introduction to the band and they are now on my music radar!

For Fans of: Hard Rock Website: Kilmara Facebook

Became a fan of this band with their first record. They have a fairly unique sound and in my opinion lean more modern. This album in terms of style leans a bit towards the previous record 'Turbulent Waters' sound. Their albums are a bit of work to get domestically, but I feel are very much worth it. Their are YouTube videos as well.

For Fans of: Hard Rock Website: Slears Official Website

A whole lot of cool and nostalgic going on here. 80's sounding rock with horror elements and cool retro artwork. The band sounds fairly mainstream with a melodic edge, but do have a strong image with utilizing costumes and the whole package shows plenty of detail and effort. Always a fun band to check out!

For Fans of: Hard Rock Website: Lordi Official Website

Every now and then I show my more extreme side. Sure, everyone knows who this band is and if you like it really heavy, with great riffing and songwriting with substance, this is your band and album. I feel like this album needs to be taken in with multiple listens to fully digest everything here. Pretty solid intense modern metal!

For Fans of: Modern Heavy Metal Website: Killswitch Engage Official Website

Great new release from the Swedish hard rockers. This band is always top notch and I feel this batch of songs is particularly strong. Good presence of melodic material with the typical rock elements the band usually offers. The band's been around for a bit, and you can hear their confidence in the music and songwriting in general.

For Fans of: Melodic Hard Rock Website: Perfect Plan Facebook

So glad that this band stays on a regular rotation of releasing albums. It seems like they evolve a bit with each album without losing their core sound. This album has some modern influences and a fair amount of flash from the musicians. Check out the title track 'Game Of Faces' and you'll see what I mean. Another great album!

For Fans of: Metal Website: Dynazty Official Website

Always dig this band's releases. A good dose of 80's sounding hard rock and 'Thrill Of The Bite' is no exception. Strong songs and that classic hard rock feel make bands and albums like this a very easy recommendation. Plenty of flash and attitude with just enough finesse to make this another great hard rock release!

For Fans of: Hard Rock Website: Crazy Lixx Facebook

March 2025 Edition

Previous Picks of the Month in 2025

February 2025 - Dream Theater-Parasomnia

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