It’s truly amazing what treasures the British label AOR Blvd. Records keeps unearthing. The American band Teacher’s Pett offers a slightly harder sound, but one that’s just as great—and we were able to secure 50 copies of their reissue. The band, which released only one cassette in 1988, played alongside acts such as Crimson Glory and Savatage. Influences from Queensryche and Lizzy Borden are also evident. So the message should be clear. Strictly limited! (BS)

American musician STEVE MAGGIORIA, who has previously performed on stage with TOTO as a keyboardist and backing vocalist, regularly releases excellent records featuring a mature blend of rock, West Coast, soul and elements of pop and singer-songwriter music. "Echoes Of Us" is no exception. A powerful voice, profound lyrics and a multi-layered production rich in detail make this work truly shine. The emotional title track is a particular highlight. Subtle influences from the likes of BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN and CHRIS REA can also be discerned. (MS)

During their two-year active period, BEAU NASTY released only one full-length album, "Dirty, But Well Dressed" (1989), but evidently recorded far more material. Metallic Blue Records is reissuing that album as "Dirty, But Well Dressed (Original Sessions)", complete with two bonus tracks, alongside three additional releases featuring the American band's demos, live recordings, and more. Standout tracks here are undoubtedly "Paradise In My Hands" and, of course, the title song, which almost justifies the purchase on its own. A certain Mike Terrana (ex-RAGE, ex-MASTERPLAN) handles the drumming duties. (MS)

During their two-year career, BEAU NASTY released only one proper album, "Dirty, But Well Dressed" (1989), but evidently recorded far more material. Seemingly out of nowhere, numerous additional songs have surfaced, lots of which appear on the compilation/live album "Dirty, Live & Nasty". In addition to the 1989 studio album (original sessions), Metallic Blue Records is releasing three more discs from the band's archives. The release at hand, "Dirty, Live & Nasty", features nine live tracks and six additional studio demos. It was a brilliant decision by Metallic Blue Records to finally release these gems! (MS)

During their two-year career, BEAU NASTY released only one proper album, "Dirty, But Well Dressed"(1989), but they evidently recorded far more material. Seemingly out of nowhere, numerous additional songs have surfaced, ten of which appear on the album "One For The Road". In addition to the 1989 studio album (original sessions), Metallic Blue Records is releasing three further discs drawn from the band's archives. These songs have a somewhat earthier feel, leaving one to wonder why such strong tracks were never officially released back in the day, though. "Crazy In The Night," for instance, offers major hit potential. (MS)

During their two-year active period from 1988-1990, BEAU NASTY released only one full-length album, "Dirty, But Well Dressed" (1989), but evidently recorded far more material. Metallic Blue Records is reissuing that album as "Dirty, But Well Dressed (Original Sessions)", complete with two bonus tracks, alongside three additional releases featuring the American band's demos, live recordings, and more. The sound quality is impressive, and the 1980s-style melodic hard rock, reminiscent of bands like WINGER, FIREHOUSE or WARRENT, features cool melodies and superb vocals (Mark Anthony Fretz), all accompanied by elaborate booklets. (MS)

THE VAL is the former band of female vocalist GABRIELLE DE VAL. This Spanish group, fronted by a singer of German descent, produced a total of three albums, the third of which is "King Ozelot" (2019). It features melodic rock defined by powerful keyboards, varied arrangements, and, naturally, an expressive vocal performance. Fans of the genre can look forward to a sound deeply rooted in 1970s rock (e.g., "Crazy World") and groove ("Save A Little Love For Me"), alongside emotive, pop-rock-infused compositions (such as "Wings Of An Angel" or "Say Goodbye"). Offered here as an original pressing. (MS)

Songwriter and keyboardist Nilver Pérez from Peru, who has also just released an excellent record with his band, REVLIN PROJECT, with his 2022 solo debut. It is an album packed with old-school AOR. A variety of guest vocalists - mostly from South America - add compelling dimensions to these consistently melodic compositions, which evoke the genre’s golden era. Offered here as the original pressing. Recommended tracks include "Breaking The Cycle," "Keep The Dreams Alive," and "Phoenix Rising." (MS)

THE STATION is the precursor to HOUSE OF SHAKIRA. While these Swedish melodic rockers, who always have a few surprises up their sleeves, may not have a single track with obvious chart-topping potential, the songs here already demonstrate their immense talent and ability. Dating from 1989 to 1993, the period prior to their rebranding as HOS, some of these tracks eventually made their way onto later HOS albums, while also revealing the band's fascinating origins. "Warm Me Up" makes for a great opener that instantly sticks in your ear. Frontman Mikael "Zifa" Eriksson possesses a versatile voice and the production is largely well-executed. (MS)

“Good Lovin’” is the second album by the American hard rock band Love In Chains. The album features Rob Kane (of Apocalyptic Lovers) on lead vocals, Mike Floros (of SteelCity) on guitar, and Guy Cole on drums. Overall, the trio delivers well-produced ’80s rock in the vein of Dokken & Co., which fans of the genre should definitely check out. All in all, it’s a good CD with a sound that new bands today rarely manage to pull off so authentically. (BS)

With their sixth album, "Golden Absolution," the Austrian band SERGEANT STEEL delivers uncompromising hard rock that celebrates the genre's golden era, spanning the mid-seventies to the mid-eighties, without merely sounding nostalgic. Frontman Phil Vanderkill displays great versatility, effectively showcasing the ten tracks. A strong production and a lively mix round up the package beautifully. Recommended tracks include "Back On The Track" and "Wireless," though the mellower "Lonely Street Of Broken Hearts," with its great guitars, is also impressive. (MS)

In the mood for high-glam party rock from Hamburg? NIGHT LASER, led by brothers Benno (vocals) and Robert (bass) Hankers, deliver exactly that! This quartet’s strongest release to date is a blast from start to finish. Recommended tracks include the anthemic "Defenders" (featuring guest vocalist Sebastian Zieroff of SIGN X) and the cool "S.T.F.U.," which kicks off the album with high energy. Other top-notch guest artists include Johnny Gioeli (vocals, AXEL RUDI PELL) and Lars Rettkowiz (guitar, FREEDOM CALL). "Rats In The Cradle" boasts superb production by Eike Freese (whose credits include DEEP PURPLE and SAGA). (MS)

Despite having a stable lineup since their so-called comeback nearly twenty-five years ago, the Swedish band Europe is a different group today than they were during their peak success between 1986 and 1992. "Come This Madness" consistently reflects this evolution, yet - happily - the great melodies remain, even if there are no longer mainstream singles à la "The Final Countdown" or "Carrie." It offers contemporary classic rock featuring diverse songwriting, big guitar sounds and an iconic voice. Superb artwork and a stellar production round off this highly interesting 2026 release from the quintet. (MS)

 "Blow Me Away" was released thirty-five years ago, and that is cause for celebration. Originally formed in Canada before relocating to Florida shortly thereafter, the hard rock band NOVA REX, whose sound is partly reminiscent of GUNS N' ROSES, possessed essentially everything that helped similar acts achieve their breakthrough. Seven hard-hitting tracks, now reissued in a high-quality package, may not seem like a lot, but the quintet's glam and hard rock sound certainly delivers. This highly sought-after record is returning to the shelves remastered, featuring new artwork and an enhanced booklet, and it is sure to impress! (MS)

American artist Chris Boudreaux, formerly of SOLDIER, HUNTER, and BOUDREAUX, delivers rousing melodic rock tracks on his new album "A Walk Amongst The Music". The cover of the ARCHIES' "Sugar, Sugar" (originally released in 1969), which serves as the album's lead single, is cool but somewhat atypical of the record's overall melodic style. The sound is excellent and well-defined, while the sixteen tracks offer a good deal of variety. Other recommended tracks include "Don’t Wake Me Now" and "Back To The Boulevard." (MS)