This page was last updated on: March 23, 2026
           Pick of the month for 3 - 2026
                  Black Swan-Paralyzed
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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What a superb new album by these great veteran musicians. For those unaware, Black Swan features Robin McAuley, Reb Beach, Jeff Pilson, and Matt Starr. A star studded lineup for sure! This new album is possibly my favorite to this point. Plenty of flash throughout a batch of well crafted memorable songs. The album is a complete listen in my opinion with no need to skip anything. I particularly love the solos. Reb Beach was on fire with this album. Robin McAuley also stuns with his vocals sounding as strong as his 80's work. This band always has great output, but I feel this one takes it to a next level in many ways. If you dig 80's hard rock delivered with a lot of confidence, this is an easy recommend!  Don't miss any of the titles below as they all represent the genre very nicely!
Gotthard-More Stereo Crush  ©2026 Perception/RPM Records
NA few extra tracks from the 'Stereo Crush' recording sessions on this record. Also, a recording of 'Mayday' which was video only prior. Even a guest appearance by Marc Storace of Krokus fame on 'Liverpool'. Pretty solid EP with 8 tracks all of which are up to the bands usual high standard! Easy recommend!
For Fans of:  Hard Rock Website: Gotthard Official Website
Michael Monroe-Outerstellar   ©2026 Silver Lining Music
Michael Monroe doesn't miss a beat. Been in the business for a long time and stays consistent with each album. From the days of Hanoi Rocks through his great solo career, this album will fit in very well. Lots of great rockers with the occasional melodic tinged stuff. Easy recommend!
For Fans of:  Hard Rock   Website: Michael Monroe Facebook
Biohazard-Divided We Fall   ©2025 Frontiers/BLKIIBLK Records
After being missing for a decade, it's obvious these guys are not missing anything. Just as heavy as they always were and still bringing the styles and sounds fans have come to expect for decades now. The aggression is still obvious and the songs are really good as always. Definitely worth a listen if you like it heavy!
For Fans of:  Metal/Hardcore  Website: Biohazard Facebook
Temple Balls-Temple Balls   ©2026 Frontiers Records
AReally cool new hard rock release helping to get 2026 started off right. The band have their usual groove and this album had me thinking of Sons Of Angels from back in the early 90's for some reason. If you dig late 80's and early 90's hard rock and bands with a sound like H.E.A.T., this one is for you!
For Fans of: Hard Rock  Website:  Temple Balls Facebook
Asia-Live In England-Night One  ©2026 Frontiers Records
​Very cool live release that showcases new vocalist Harry Whitley and the band's self titled debut masterpiece. This project looks to be similar to what Blue Oyster Cult did recently with Frontiers Records. There should be a couple of more nights coming. There are a few bonus tracks added as well including 'Video Killed The Radio Star'.
For Fans of: Rock  Website:   Asia Official Website
The Switch-No Way Out   ©2025 Frontiers Records
Really cool 80's inspired melodic hard rock release. The album itself is a bit of a story or soundtrack to an 80's movie in a parallel universe. At times the vocals reminded me of Daughtry, but the music itself is definitely influenced off of the late 80's. Another really cool Frontiers band that feature former members of Vega and Cruzh. 
For Fans of: Melodic Hard Rock   Website: The Switch Facebook
Heavy Pettin-Rock Generation   ©2025 Silver Lining Music
You don't see new material from this classic hard rock band very often, but when you do get it, it's really good. Every Heavy Pettin album seems to have it's own personality and this is no exception. At its core, this is another great Heavy Pettin record full of mid tempo rock anthems. Easy recommend.
For Fans of: Hard Rock  Website: Heavy Pettin Official Website
Testament-Para Bellum  ©2025 Nuclear Blast Records
Superb new thrash release from one of the best veteran bands still playing this style. As far as I am concerned, Testament has lost absolutely nothing through the years. Still very heavy and playing and writing the way they always have. Some of the stuff on this album sounds classic, while others lean more towards their recent sound.
For Fans of: Thrash Metal  Website: Testament Official Website
Iron Savior-Awesome Anthems Of The Galaxy  ©2026 Perception/RPM Records
A power metal covers album that is a fun ride. The band covers a lot of really big songs, from 80's pop artists which was a surprise. There is a definite edge, but at the same time the songs remain somewhat faithful to the originals. This track lineup was somewhat unexpected, but a lot of fun! If you need to sample, videos up on YouTube!
For Fans of: Power Metal Website Iron Savior Official Website
March 2026 Edition
Previous Picks of the Month in 2026

​February 2026  Megadeth-Megadeth
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