Here are some hot new AOR and Melodic Rock bands:
 
 
 
 
SHIFT:

This must be the new sensation in the AOR scene. Their website says: "SHIFT is a five piece A.O.R. rock band from San Diego, California. A strong, driving guitar sets the foundation for rich melodic vocals with layered keyboards and a rock solid rhythm section. If you like rock music with hooks melody ala JOURNEY, FOREIGNER etc., you'll love this band."

When a band says this, I can only think that this must be a superb AOR band. Maybe a future band for the European AOR labels MTM or Frontiers, who knows? I wasn't able to listen to one of their songs, but I am very positive about this band and hopefully much more info on SHIFT soon.
 

HOWARD GRIPP AND STINGER:

Getting more and more into the undergroundscene. This little band STINGER (features Howard Gripp) is playing commercial AOR rock a la FOREIGNER and JOURNEY. They come out of Sioux City, IA, USA and released a CD titled 'Walk Away' in 1997. Don't know if they are still out there. I hope so, and if the band ever reads this, then they should contact me.
 

DAVE CROUCH:

This artist comes out of Ohio and he is playing 80s based AOR/Poprock in the style of JOHN WAITE, MICHAEL STANLEY and HENRY LEE SUMMER. I haven't been able to listen to his music, but if he has been compared to the 80s sounds of these artists, then I think DAVE CROUCH must be interesting for us. More info when I get it.
 

DARKSTAR:

Band out of Pennsylvania, USA. Not to be confused with the 80s DARK STAR. This new band has released a same titled CD. I heard two songs of the band, namely "Don't cry for me" (an uptempo melodic rocker) and "Loved you to death" (a melodic rockballad). Both sounded pretty nice. Hopefully more info later.
 

TREMOR:

Another Chicago based band. TREMOR has released a CD titled 'For the cause'. They play a mixture between JOURNEY, THE BEATLES and QUEEN. I don't know what the result is, but I am pretty much interested in hearing this band, hopefully I get the chance soon.
 

SEIXAS:

SEIXAS is the brainchild of Dario Seixas. Originally from Brazil, Dario is a multi-instrumentalist and did everything on his own on his solo-debut CD which is titled 'Meaning of Life'. This is very impressive. Musically he is playing Melodic Rock and has been compared to Whitesnake, Bon Jovi, Extreme, Journey, KISS... So a pretty interesting artist and hopefully I am able to review his music soon.
 

ERIK TORJESEN:

ERIK TORJESEN is coming out of California. Erik is currently touring as lead guitarist with STARSHIP featuring MICKEY THOMAS. He has released two solo-albums until now. Albums are titled 'Fingers' and 'Table for two'. Don't know how these album sound, but I believe the albums are filled with melodic rock. More info when I get it.
 

MID E. MAN:

MID E. MAN is coming out of Chicago. They have released a CD titled 'Midnight dreams'. Musically they have been compared to BON JOVI and LOVERBOY. So, this must be very interesting I guess. More info when I get it.
 

ANIMAL GRACE:

Out of Ohio comes this American band. 'Finally' is the title of their CD and they have been influenced musically by KISS, THIN LIZZY and EXTREME. So, they play rock'n'roll the old fashioned way. Melodic and loud. More info when I get it.
 

OLIVER MONROE:

OLIVER MONROE comes out of Munich, Germany and is playing 80s typed Melodic Poprock in the style of the old BON JOVI and BRYAN ADAMS. So, this may be very interesting for us. Hopefully more info later.
 

CHAPTER 23:

CHAPTER 23 is coming out of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. They have released a CD titled 'Flying in the face of conventional wisdom'. Musically they are playing a mixture between Progressive and AOR/Melodic Pomprock. They have been influenced by KANSAS, JOURNEY and QUEENSRYCHE. I heard one of their songs titled Shakedown", a great classic 80s AOR typed rocker something like the second PROPHET album. More info will follow hopefully later.
 

PLAYGROUND X:

This band is coming out of Pleasantville, Iowa, USA. Their debut CD is titled 'All The Worlds A Playground' and musically they play 80s based AOR/Melodic Rock. Influenced by KISS, MONTROSE, NIGHT RANGER, JOURNEY... this band is very interesting and hopefully I can get my hands on their CD for a review.
 

RONEET:

RONEET is probably the first Melodic Rockband out of Czech Republic. They have released two demo tapes so far and musically they are in the 80s style of EUROPE and BON JOVI. Review of their demo tape (s) will hopefully follow soon.
 

AXIS:

AXIS is coming out of Miami, Florida. But they are singing in Spanish, because they are Cuban. Musically they play some pure 80s typed AOR/Melodic Rock. I've heard two songs. "Sheila", a great AOR song. And "Vida", a superb classic 80s typed AOR song a la FRANKE & THE KNOCKOUTS, PREVIEW, TYCOON... Incredible sound this band has and maybe even better than CODA, an other Mexican AOR band. I really hope to get more info and make a review of their music soon on this site.
 

ATELLO:

A band out of New York. They have just released a CD titled 'The Big Payoff'. The band is playing fantastic 80s typed melodic rock. I heard a couple of songs and I am impressed. "Hold on" and "Grip on my heart" are two of their songs and they are both sounding like the classic 80s melodic rock. This band is very much similar in style to VELOCITY, LOUD'N'CLEAR, DANNY DANZI and NETWORK. They could easily be signed to any of the big European AOR labels at the moment. Let's hope I can review and maybe interview this band pretty soon.
 

FOREVER:

FOREVER is coming out of Germany. This is a new melodic rockband and I heard two songs so far and they both sounded great. The best one was "Other side", a great semi AOR ballad like JADED HEART. I believe they haven't released a CD so far, but a demo tape with Carsten Schulz from the band MR. HATE on lead vocals. Hopefully a review of that demo tape or a possible CD soon on our website.
 

PRIMAL HEART:

This is a very interesting AOR band out of Jackson. They have released a CD titled 'Just once' and play a melodic aor rockstyle somewhere between BOSTON, JOURNEY and WHITESNAKE. Hopefully much more info on this band soon.
 

ROMEO DELITE:

Band out of North Carolina, USA that is playing pure 80s orientated melodic party rock. The band is influenced by DOKKEN, STYX and STRYPER. So I think this is another very interesting act with big harmonyvocals, choruses, melodic guitarsounds... The band was formed earlier this year and have released a self-titled debut CD which hopefully get reviewed over here soon.
 

THE OATH:

THE OATH is coming out of South Carolina, USA and is playing high energy rock and roll with influences from KISS and JOURNEY. They have been playing professionally full-time ever since their first professional gig in 1985. They've released three independent efforts of original material. Hopefully more info later.
 

GOLPE D'STADO:

GOLPE D'STADO comes out of Puerto Rico, but the band is settled in New Jersey. They are pretty much in the AOR/Melodic Rockstyle. I heard a couple of songs such as "Sentimento" (semi AOR rockballad) and "Maleficio" (semi AOR rocker) and they sounded pretty good. Hopefully more info on this band later.
 

RIVENDEL:

RIVENDEL is coming out of Santiago, Chile and is playing a mixture of Sympho and AOR/Melodic Rock. They are influenced by KANSAS. I heard a good AOR song of the band called "Resplandores". When I get the chance to hear more, I will review it for sure.
 

HOKUS POKUS:

HOKUS POKUS is a band out of Vancouver, Canada and is playing typical melodic rock with influences from GREAT WHITE and VAN HALEN. Maybe a review of their CD 'Hokus pokus' soon on our site.
 

STEREOTYPE:

This band used to be called ASCENSION under which they released two albums titled 'Rockin' the world' and 'Ascension' in the early 90s. I heard a couple of songs of these albums and they sounded fantastic. Songs like "Stand up" (VU crossed with the first DANGER DANGER) and "Heaven's waiting" (AOR ballad) are very good. In 1995 the band changed their name into STEREOTYPE and released an album titled 'Paradise lost'. Hopefully a review of that CD and also the two albums of ASCENSION soon on our website.
 

EXIT:

A band out of Illinois, USA and a very interesting one. EXIT is playing 80s typed AOR rock with influences from JOURNEY and BOSTON. They won the Battle of the Bands in Peoria, Illinois with one of their songs titled "Sea of love". Hopefully, much more info on this interesting band later on our website.
 

DAVE WILLIAMS PROJECT:

DAVE WILLIAMS is coming out of Georgia, USA. He has released a CD titled 'Garden Variety'. Musically there are influences of JOURNEY and STARSHIP, which can be heard in one of his songs called "Need", a beautiful AOR ballad. Hopefully a review of his CD soon.
 

DB ROX:

New Jersey recording band that is also playing the famous 80s typed New Jersey commercial melodic arena-rock. Their same titled debut CD was released in 1997 and when I get the chance to review it, I will gladly do it.
 

DOGMAN:

DOGMAN is coming out of Colorado and their release 'Kennel of love' contains 80s typed melodic hardrock. Some VAN HALEN references are noted. Maybe a review later on our site.
 

ZIRCON:

A band out of San Diego, California. Their same titled release has been compared to the melodic rock of 80s VAN HALEN/LOVERBOY. Seems interesting, hopefully more info later.
 

FILM:

Band out of New Jersey that released a couple of years back a CD titled 'Futurama'. Musically moving in the style of REO SPEEDWAGON and JOURNEY, so quite interesting this FILM. I don't know if the band still exists, but I hope to find out soon.
 

SOUVENIR:

Hardly any info on this band out of Florida. I heard they sounded like SURVIVOR and play melodic rock/aor, but I cannot confirm this, because I don't know more about them. When I do, you will read it on our site.
 

2 FOR ONE:

I couldn't listen to their music, but 2 FOR ONE is a melodic hardrockband that has been influenced by acts like ICON and HARDLINE, so this must be something good. More info when I get it.
 

DALE COLLINS:

This Canadian guitarist opened up for acts like PRETTY ROUGH and JENSON INTERCEPTOR. On his first (?) CD he got help from Bernie Shaw from URIAH HEEP. Musically this is melodic hardrock in the 70s style, more info when I get it.
 

LAST TEMPTATION:

I haven't got much info of this band yet, but I believe LAST TEMPTATION is a melodic hardrockband with an edge. I think they sound like DOKKEN and TYKETTO, but like I said I haven't got a clue, because I have so little info. Hope to get more info soon.
 

SISTER CHILD:

A band out of Chicago. They are preparing their debut release. The band plays melodic hard rock with a lot of DEF LEPPARD influences. More info when I get it.
 

70TH BLIGHT:

Brazilian band that has released a CD titled 'First Steps Over Water'. Musically the play 80s based melodic rock. More info when I get it.
 

WULFGANG:

One of those new sensations in the melodic rockscene. They hail from North Carolina and the songs I heard of their CD 'Love ain't easy' are pretty good and huge sounding. They are influenced by JOURNEY which can be heard on the AOR song "Love gone bad". "Yesterday's dreams" is a wonderful melodic rockballad. There are also some early DANGER DANGER influences. But hopefully much more info on WULFGANG soon on our website.
 

SKY HIGH:

SKY HIGH is a band that sounds pretty good and they are very 80s typed. I heard one of their songs called "Knife through the heart" and this was a very good midtempo melodic rocker with a lovely catchy chorus not unlike early WINGER with some AOR influences here and there. more info hopefully later.
 

PERIL:

American band that has released two albums so far. They play melodic (hard) rock like the 80s DOKKEN style. 'Kiss of fire' is one of their albums. When I get the chance to review it, I will certainly do it.
 

CRUSH:

CRUSH is a Glamband that sounds like TUFF/PRETTY BOY FLOYD... I haven't got any info on them, but when I do a review of their CD will follow.
 

PANACEA:

Band out of Ontario, Canada. They have released a CD titled 'Tip of the iceburg'. I heard one of their songs titled "Take me away" and this was a very good uptempo 80s melodic rocker. Band has been influenced by STYX. Hopefully a review soon.
 

SCREAM DREAM:

Three songs are on the demo CD of this new English band. They come out of Newcastle, England, but sound like an American band. They play melodic hardrock with some 80s DOKKEN and VICTORY references. More info when I get it.
 

KRUSH:

'Lost' is the title of the 4-track demotape of this Californian Christian Melodic Rockband. The band plays in the style of the old Californian Commercial melodic rock of bands like WINGER, STRYPER, early GUARDIAN... When I get my hands on their demo tape, a review will follow.
 

THIRD/CROW:

Christian Melodic Hardrockbands just keep on coming our way. Here's another American one. Musically they are in the veins of early GUARDIAN, WHITECROSS... The band has released a CD titled 'In denial'. When I get the chance, I will review it.
 

SUPREME:

Christian Melodic Hardrockband out of Skane, Sweden. They have released an EP containing 4 tracks. More info may follow later.
 

FINAL DESTINY:

Another one of those hot new Christian Melodic Rockbands. The band has released a CD titled 'North of hell'. Described as a cross between old BON JOVI and PETRA. So, this must be something for our ears for sure.
 

DANNY MASTERS:

I believe the CD of DANNY MASTERS titled 'Electric babylon' is partly instrumental, but also features some vocal tracks. I heard these vocal tracks sounded like FAIR WARNING. Seems interesting, hopefully more info later.
 

GYPSY BLUE:

A band out of Chicago, Illinois playing commercial sounding 80s melodic rock. One of their songs is called "Livin in the city", a great melodic rocker. Hopefully more info soon on our site.
 

RICO MACALMA:

RICO MACALMA comes out of California and hasn't released a CD so far, but I have heard a couple of songs he made solo as well as with his former band DELAYED REACTION and these songs sounded good. DELAYED REACTION was a little heavier in style compared to his solo-material and had a female vocalist which sounded like BETSY/BITCH. His solo-material is much more in the classic 80s melodic rockstyle. I heard a song called "Every look in your eyes" and this is pretty good uptempo melodic rock like the old BON JOVI/FIREHOUSE. Let's hope I can get some more info on this guy soon.
 

JENNA MUSIC:

Her last name is music and she plays music. JENNA MUSIC is a girl out of California. She has released a CD that features some nice female fronted poprock in the 80s tradition. One of the songs I heard was "Wait for me", a great uptempo poprocker a la PATTY SMYTH, SCANDAL. Hopefully a review of the CD soon.
 

CYRUS/LONNIE R. WEST PROJECT:

Formerly called CYRUS, now they are called the LONNIE R. WEST PROJECT. The band features 3 boys and 3 girls (kinda like MARK ALLEN BAND) and they come out of Sarasota, Florida. Musically they are very much in the AOR territory. I heard a fantastic AOR ballad of this band called "Goodbye", a song that is in the JOURNEY/SAVANNAH style (including great AOR piano-keys). The band has not released anything yet, but with a song like "Goodbye" this shouldn't take so long. More info about this project/band when I get it.
 

FREEDOM CAGE:

Band out of Miami, Florida. The have released a CD titled 'Volume 1 & volume 2'. FREEDOM CAGE is playing 80s typed melodic rock . I heard a couple of snippets of songs of the band and they sound pretty good. "Fantasy" is in the old WINGER/STRYPER style, while "Love will find" is very melodic and has a fantastic AOR chorus with some lovely harmonyvocals. Hopefully a review will follow soon.
 

JONAS ERIXON:

Multi-instrumentalist out of Sweden. Jonas hasn't released a full-album yet, but a few singles, which are also interesting to review, because musically he plays melodic rock with influences from WHITESNAKE.
 

KRUHNER:

Canadian band that has released a self-titled debut CD. I heard a couple of songs, namely "Look for love" (a very good AOR ballad) and "Somethin' to tell you" and "Take a look" (two nice melodic rockers). Hopefully a review of their CD soon.
 

MACHINE MESSIAH:

Independent recording band out of Miami, Florida that has released a CD titled 'Messiah's Fallen' on which they play 80s typed melodic rock. Pretty interesting band, hopefully a review of their CD later on our website.
 

CLEVERNECK:

Band out of the New Jersey area. The band also has the classic New Jersey AOR/Melodic rocksound a la SINNOCENCE, first DANGER DANGER.. So, this is a very interesting band. I don't know if they have a CD out, but I heard a great track of the guys called "Try a little harder", a classy piece of indie AOR/Melodic Rock in the best 80s tradition. Hope to have more info soon.
 

AUTOBAHN:

These guys come out of Seattle, USA and their self-titled album is very interesting for us I think. I believe this is a 80s typed melodic rockband. When I get more info, I will definitely write about this interesting band.
 

ANTONE:

ANTONE comes out of New Jersey and is playing 80s typed melodic rock with influences from VAN HALEN, QUEEN and YES. Don't know exactly how his CD 'Tone antone' sounds, but when I get the chance to hear it, a review will be published.
 

BUZZ CLIC:

BUZZ CLIC is a band out of the Woodland Hills in California. The band has released a CD titled 'The hits' and I read that the band played with Phil Seymour, an artist that released two poprock LPs in the early 80s. Anyway, I heard a couple of songs of BUZZ CLIC titled "Lonely one" and "Leave me alone" and these are good early 80s typed uptempo poprockers. Look forward to hear and review their CD.
 

THE LOUD:

The new AOR sensation comes out of Johannesburg, South Africa and is called THE LOUD. This is a band that features the duo Marshall & Clinton. Clinton is the lead vocalist and guitarist Marshall plays all the keyboards, bass and drums. The band has released a CD titled 'The Loud' and musically they play pure AOR in the 80s JOURNEY style! I heard a couple of songs and they sounded superb! For example, their song "When you love someone" is pure JOURNEY AOR, a fantastic song! And also the song "Sorry ain't good enough" is superb JOURNEY styled AOR with some classic AOR keys, this is sounding like "Seperate ways" - JOURNEY! I really hope I can get in touch with this band and review the CD of THE LOUD, so you can also get to know this band through our website. Finally, a new AOR band out of this country after waiting almost 20 years since the only AOR band came out of there (STINGRAY).
 

DON'T CALL ME BOB:

This is a band out of Reno, Nebraska, USA. They have released an album titled 'Complicated Simplicity, Bob Rocks'. I heard one song of this band titled "Livin' Heaven Thru Hell". This song is a fantastic 80s typed AOR/Radiorocker in the 38 SPECIAL style. So here's another band to look out for in the future. Hopefully a review soon on our website.
 

CHARGE:
 
CHARGE is a new band out of New Orleans, Louisiana, USA. They will release their debut (?) CD 'Do Not Overcharge' soon and hopefully I can review that CD, because I heard a couple of songs of the band and they are influenced by JOURNEY. "Stranger" is one of their songs and this has some great 80s AOR keys and is in the classic JOURNEY style. Another band to look forward to.
 

SCOTT MICHAEL WEBB:

SCOTT MICHAEL WEBB is coming out of Jackson, Nebraska, USA and he has been influenced by some of the world's greatest classic AOR/Rockbands like STYX, JOURNEY and THE OUTFIELD. And indeed we can hear these influences in his music. He calls his music poprock, but after hearing a couple of his songs through MP3 I heard pure 80s AOR rock! Those great keyboards are making it even more sound like the classic 80s AOR. There are many similarities to THE OUTFIELD, but his music also has a Radiorock twist a la DAVID ROBERTS, STEEL BREEZE... Some songs are pretty sensational. His CD is titled 'Stealin' away the night' on which he plays all the instruments, which gives him (also musically) similarities to JEFF CANNATA and BRYAN HUGHES. This guy is playing the same music as PHIL VINCENT and JOE ROBINSON and these artists had favourable reviews on our site, so when I get the chance to review Scott's CD, I think it will get also such a good review. Hopefully much more info later.
 

RON LUCAS:

This is actually quite interesting. RON LUCAS is coming out of Colorado, USA. His CD 'Motion' is partly instrumental and partly vocal. Ron plays all the instruments himself and says that the instrumental tracks are movie based, while the vocal tracks are AOR based. I heard one of the vocal tracks titled "I need you" which is great AOR like PHIL VINCENT, STAN BUSH, BRYAN HUGHES, JEFF CANNATA... Not surprising, because Ron Lucas has been influenced by AOR gods JOURNEY and RICK SPRINGFIELD. So, when I get my hands on his release, expect a great review on our site.
 

JUST JAY:

This is THE new AOR sensation! JUST JAY is playing pure AOR which sounds huge and fantastic! The band is coming out of New Jersey and their CD 'Through my eyes' contains some pure AOR songs like "Hold on" and "Starting over again" which both sound like a cross between JOURNEY and THE STORM. Also the sound/production quality is very good, so this new AOR sensation should get some attention soon. Hopefully I will be able to review their debut album soon and an interview will probably follow. This band is up there with all the MTM acts, trust me!
 

PARADISE NOW:

Fantastic new Christian AOR/Melodic Rockband out of Canada. The band is playing 80s based melodic rock a la DOKKEN, STRYPER, NOUVEAUX (first), HEAVENS EDGE... They have released one CD so far and if everything goes well that CD will get a rave review on our site pretty soon.
 

AIRBORNE:

Not to confuse with the same named bands from the past and present. This AIRBORNE is coming out of Northeastern Pennsylvania and partly New York. They have released two CDs so far. They are influenced by THE BEATLES and BOSTON and play Melodic Rock. Hopefully a review later on our site.
 

SCARLET ROSE:

Do not confuse this SCARLET ROSE with the same named German Melodic Rockband (released two great HEART sounding CDs). This SCARLET ROSE is coming out of Montana, USA and have so far released two CDs/Demo albums. The band is playing Melodic Rock that reminds me of 70s acts like APRIL WINE, BAD BOY, HAMMERSMITH, MOXY. I heard a couple of great songs like "Saved by love" and hope I can review their material soon.
 

JOKER:

Not to be confused with the other American JOKER that released two wonderful melodic rockalbums in the early 90s and also don't confuse them with the Brazilian Melodic Hardrockband JOKER. This is a hot new AOR/Melodic Rockband out of Kansas City, USA. They have been influenced by melodic rockacts like JOURNEY, VAN HALEN... I heard a song of the band called "Love is on its way" and this is superb midtempo AOR/Melodic Rock that sounds like a cross between DEF LEPPARD and JOURNEY. Hopefully much more info on this great new band later.
 

JOE CHANDLER:

JOE CHANDLER is coming out of Sacramento, California and he is saying: "IF YOU LIKE THE BAND 'JOURNEY' YOU WILL LOVE THIS BAND!" In fact, one of his songs called "Still lovin' you" was written for the JOURNEY. I read that Joe has worked with JOURNEY in 1984 and 1985. So, if you're a JOURNEY fan, which AOR fans all are, this is very interesting. Joe has released a CD titled 'Golden girl' which will get reviewed hopefully on our website soon. If the music really has that JOURNEY sound, then an interview with Joe will be our next goal!
 

LADEN:

Interesting melodic rockband out of Florida, USA. They have released a CD titled 'Politics of life'. Hopefully a review later.
 

LAZY JANE:

A Melodic Hard Rock band out of Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. The band has been influenced by TESLA and KISS. They will release a CD late summer, more info when I get it.
 

LAZARUS:

Party-Melodic Hardrockband out of Ohio, USA. The band has already released 3 albums titled 'Miss B. Haven', 'Greased & Primed' and 'Bombz Away'. More info when I get it.
 

OFF-1 ROCKER:

Californian Melodic Hardrockband that has been influenced by MSG, SCORPIONS, RUSH, VAN HALEN. They have released a self-titled album.
 

DAS:

DAS is a band out of Madison, Wisconsin, USA. They have released a CD titled 'Never say die' and are playing Melodic Hard Rock with some progressive influences. The band has been influenced by JOURNEY, DREAM THEATER, VAN HALEN and QUEENSRYCHE, so this should be a very interesting band. Hopefully more info later.
 

STONE ANGEL:

It's almost unbelievable but the melodic rock/aor bands keep on coming our way. Here's a band out of the New York area. STONE ANGEL is playing pure 80s melodic rock'n'roll and have been influenced by bands like STYX and JOURNEY. The melodic rock of this band has 3-part harmonyvocals, so this must be another very interesting band that must get their review on our AOR/Melodic Rock website. The band has released a CD titled 'Tunring point' which hopefully get reviewed in the next coming weeks.
 

2ND BREATH:

2ND BREATH is a band out of Gelsenkirchen, Germany. They play 80s typed Melodic Hard Rock with influences from YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, DEEP PRUPLE and BRYAN ADAMS. The band has released a CD titled 'Dangerous eyes' and when I get the chance to hear that CD, I will review it.

 
DIAMOND EDGE:

This band out of Indianapolis, Indiana, USA is playing hardrock how it used to sound in the 80s. There are influences from QUEENSRYCHE, yet they are very melodic. Their CD is titled 'Shakin The Train'.
 

LAZARUS:

LAZARUS is coming out of Ohio, USA. The band has already released 3 CDs titled 'Miss B. Haven', 'Greased & Primed' and 'Bombz Away'. They have been influenced by 80s melodic hardrockbands such as TESLA, LYNCH MOB, VAN HALEN, KISS... Maybe more info later.
 

THE LAZY DOGZ:

A New Jersey Rockband that has released a CD titled 'Turn it down'. I believe this is a Melodic Hardrockband, but I'm not sure. Let's see if I can find out the next coming weeks.
 

HEAVY RAIN:

This band has released a 4 song demo Cd entitled "The Calm Before the Storm". HEAVY RAIN is playing melodic hardrock and when I get more info you will read it on our website.
 

BIG BANG:
 
This band has been hugely influenced by 80s acts like FOREIGNER, JOURNEY and BILLY SQUIER. I don't know more info and also don't know if they have released original material. When I have more info, I'll let you know.
 

BISHOP:

There are so many new bands to be discovered on the internet and also many play our musicstyle without anyone knowing it. Here's another interesting band. BISHOP is coming out of Nashville, Tennessee and is playing the classic 80s melodic rock. The band was formed by Dean Morrison, BISHOP has had the chance to share the stage with such notable rockers as Motley Crue, Firehouse,Warrant... Influences in the melodic rockstyle of BISHOP come from bands like DEF LEPPARD, BON JOVI, ALDO NOVA and even KANSAS! And one of the songs of BISHOP is the NELSON cover "Keep one heart" (only released as a CD-single of NELSON). So, this must be a very good sounding band (maybe a la JOHNNY LIMA!) and as soon as I get more info, you will read it on our website.
 

BACKBURNER:

A band out of the Detroit area in Michigan, USA. They have been compared to the likes of JOURNEY, so I think we have to deal here with another very interesting new AOR band. It seems that the fun 80s rock'n'roll is making a huge comeback in the underground nowadays. I could only hear a couple of parts of their songs (real player was a bit down) and I must say that this band reminds me of SECOND CHANCE (reviewed somewhere else on this site). So, basically BACKBURNER is a great AOR/Radiorockband with similarities to 38 SPECIAL. I hope I can review their CD 'Feel the heat' in the next coming months.
 

GAPSTANDER:

This band is really playing the typical classic 80s AOR/Melodic Rock. GAPSTANDER is a Christian Melodic Rockband out of Fort Wayne, Indiana, USA and they have released a CD titled 'Gapstander'. Band has been influenced by PETRA, VAN HALEN... I heard one song of the band called "Nothing you can do" and this fantastic uptempo classic 80s AOR/Melodic rock a la BRITTON/DANGER DANGER (first). This band is really superb. I hope I am able to review their CD in the next coming weeks.
 

GROUNDWORK:

Another interesting Christian Rockband out of Fort Wayne, Indiana, USA. This band has been influenced by PETRA, KANSAS and STYX. In other words, maybe we have to deal here with another new sensation in the AOR/Pomp/Melodic Rockscene. The band has already released two albums titled 'Take it Personally' and 'World of Technology' which both will be reviewed on our site hopefully. I heard the band has been on the scene since the mid 70s, circulating in the midwest of the USA (in the area of bands like ROADMASTER, REO SPEEDWAGON, HEAD EAST...). So, now it's time to bring this band to the attention of the people around the world.
 

DAMASCUS:

Christian Rock Band out of Chicago. I haven't got much info yet, but I believe they play a mixture of Progressive and Pomp Melodic Rock. I have been told that they sound very much like KANSAS. Let's hope and pray I can review this band on our site soon, so you can get to know more of this interesting band.
 

JOHN TAGLIERI:

This guy has a very long history. John comes out of New Jersey, USA. He has released a CD called 'Leap of faith' (which hopefully get reviewed on our site soon). Musically he is playing pure 80s AOR/Melodic Poprock with influences of TRIUMPH, JOURNEY, RIK EMMETT... I heard one of his songs called "Leap of faith" and this is very impressive AOR. One other song is called "Reason to believe", a beautiful AOR ballad. The sound of JOHN TAGLIERI is pretty close to the best AOR songs RICHARD MARX offered. I also heard comparisons to MICHAEL MORALES, the first SCOTT WENZEL and RICK MATHEWS. So, another interesting artist.
 

DAN RAYMOND:

This artist comes out of the state of Washington. Solo he has not released anything yet, but he played with the band CRUSADER for a couple of years. CRUSADER was a Christian Melodic Rocband (a la SURE CONVICTION, VU), which hopefully get reviewed on our site someday. Now, lead vocalist/guitarist Dan Raymond has gone solo after the split of CRUSADER. He has enough material available for two solo-albums, but hasn't released anything yet. Dan has been influenced by the 80s classic melodic rock/aor from the likes of BON JOVI, KISS, SURVIVOR, POISON, STRYPER, GEOFF MOORE, GUARDIAN, NOUVEAUX... In other words, our musicstyle! Hopefully more info later.
 

BLIND ALLEY:

Not AOR all the way this Swedish band. They are pretty much in the style of PROMOTION, CIOBA, HIGHER GROUND, LAVA... Poppy Westcoast AOR with strong melodies though. Their song "Walk on water" is very good AOR a la TOTO. The band has a CD out called 'On the way'. Maybe a review of this CD later.
 

CHASING MIDNIGHT:

This band is playing pure early 80s poprock with some RICK SPRINGFIELD influences. Still, they are different than most other acts we have, because there are some poppy and folky elements in their music. Still, I heard two songs of the band called "Hollywood" and "I'm waiting" and these songs are both cheerful uptempo poprockers in the early RICK SPRINGFIELD style. When I get more info, a review will follow.
 

BEYOND THE LABYRINTH:

A Progressive AOR metal band from Belgium. They try to mix the AOR elements of BON JOVI, ASIA with the Progressive overtones of DREAM THEATER and QUEENSRYCHE. I heard one of their songs called "Shine" in which it really works well. I believe they have not released any CD yet, but more about that when I get info.
 

SOME ODD REASON:

Band out of New York City that is playing old school 80s melodic rock. Band has been influenced by VAN HALEN. SOME ODD REASON reminds me of RIGGS. Hopefully a review of their upcoming debut CD soon.
 

PIPE DREAM:

I don't know much about this Chicago based Rockband, although they have been on the scene since 1987 and are playing classic rock. I haven't heard any songs of the band, but I believe they play our kind of rock. More info later.
 

ZERO HOUR:

This band out of Florida is saying they are influenced by STYX, KANSAS and BOSTON. If they really sound like any of these acts, I don't know, because I haven't heard their music. But if they play this kind of Pomprock, then a review will follow soon.
 

ZERO ZERO:

Seeing the influences of this band, this must be a new sensation in the AOR scene. ZERO ZERO is a new band out of Bremen, Germany. The band has a female lead vocalist. ZERO ZERO has been influenced by bands like GIANT, BAD ENGLISH, SARAYA, HEART, TOTO... So, the band can probably be seen as a pure AOR band. Partly due to the female lead vocals, a comparison to the 80s HEART sound will be hard to avoid. In other words, this must be a great band. I hope I can give you more info in the next coming weeks on this hot new AOR band out of Germany.
 

HAYESLAND:

This is a Californian band. HAYESLAND features a female vocalist. The influences of the band are coming from acts like PAT BENATAR, HEART... So in other words, this band is very interesting for all fans of female fronted 80s AOR/Poprock. The band has released a CD titled 'Should I believe' which hopefully will get reviewed on our site in the coming weeks.
 

AMERICAN MADE:

Another melodic hardrockband out of the USA. Influences come from Aerosmith and Van Halen. More info when I get it.
 

PEACE CHILD:

Remember ARSENAL? This was a Christian Melodic Hard rockband with a female lead vocalist. The band sounded like a heavier version of WITNESS and HEAT with the ocassional AOR song. You can read a review of their only CD by clicking here. Now the band is back under the new name PEACE CHILD. The band is settled in Florida and their first CD has been out for a while and will hopefully be reviewed by us pretty soon.
 

MAX:

Do not confuse this MAX with the Canadian AOR/Poprockband THE MAX that released two great CDs. This MAX is coming out of Switzerland and have released one CD titled 'Come near' as well as a Demo CD so far. Hopefully bot will get a review on our site pretty soon. The band has been influenced by 80s AOR and Poprockacts like TOTO. It would not surprise me if MAX would sound like JOJO, keyboard driven aor/pop/rock. I wasn't able to listen to any of the songs of the band, but I think this band will be interesting for us. Hopefully much more info later.
 

FEEL:

This band out of Columbus, Ohio is playing 80s typed melodic hardrock on their debut CD 'Unsigned 2000'. FEEL was influenced by bands like BONJOVI, TESLA and DEF LEPPARD. So, this is set to be an interesting band for Strutter'zine. Hopefully a review will follow soon.
 

RELEAF:

RELEAF is one of the most interesting American bands of the past few weeks I discovered. They come out of Algood, Tennessee and are influenced by classic AOR of the 80s (such as JOURNEY). So, this band is already set to become a winner for the next coming months. I heard they havew just released their debut CD and the tracks I already heard down at MP3 sounded pretty nice and I think their debut CD will get a very good review at our site pretty soon hopefully.
 

VERTICAL ADDICTION:

This is yet another great band in the AOR/Melodic Rockworld. VERTICAL ADDICTION is a Christian Melodic Rock/AOR band out of Vancouver, Canada. They released their self-titled debut CD last year (hopefully this CD will get reviewed pretty soon). Musically they are influenced by bands like STRYPER, GUARDIAN, JOURNEY... I heard one of their songs called "Don't let go" (great songtitle!) and this is lovely uptempo classic 80s AOR/Melodic Rock which comes very close to the first DANGER DANGER album. I am pretty looking forward to hear their CD, because the only song I heard so far sounded fantastic (how will the rest sound?) and this VERTICAL ADDICITON may be the new sensation.
 

VIA:

This band comes out of the Texas area and is very very interesting. They have released a CD titled 'By the way' and are playing a musicstyle best be described as a mix of AOR, Melodic and Progressive Rock. Their Musical influences come from bands like RUSH, JOURNEY and QUEENSRYCHE, while they have been compared to bands like on their only CD. VIA is one of those perfect bands for Strutter'zine. Let's hope they are as sensational as a band like MYSTERY (Canada, similar influences) and we can review their CD soon, so you can add another great band to your list and are able to contact this band.
 

THE FRANKLIN/NEUMANN PROJECT:

Bill Neumann and Gary Franklin form together this American project. A progressive melodic rockband that has influences of bands like ANGEL, ELP, KANSAS, STYX, UFO, RUSH, MALMSTEEN... They have released a CD titled, which hopefully will be reviewed pretty soon on our website.
 

JEFFREY RYAN SMOOTS (JRS):

This guy from Washington plays all the instruments himself on his debut album 'Wings of Gold', which was released in 1997. He has been influenced by bands like STYX, ANGEL, MALMSTEEN, RUSH, QUEENSRYCHE... I heard one of his songs called "Wings of gold", an uptempo progressive AOR rocker, a bit like the old ASIA. Hopefully a review will follow soon.
 

ROGUE:

Band out of Illinois, USA. They play late 80s kinda melodic hard rock, somewhat like WINGER, WARRANT. They have released a CD titled 'Pictures'.
 

WIDOW:

Swedish Melodic Hardrock/Metal band. They have released 3 albums already and when I get more info, reviews will appear here. Do not confuse this band with the 80s female fronted poprock/hardrockband WIDOW from the USA that released two nice albums.
 

SWIFTKICK:

Lately we have had a couple of bands coming out of Toledo, a small village in Ohio, USA. Now we can add this band called SWIFTKICK. This band is playing rock'n'roll as they say themselves and I think we have to deal here with a melodic hardrockband in the 80s style. The band has released a CD titled 'Kik me! A review of this CD maybe soon.
 

4IWITNESS:

Christian Rock Band out of Georgia, USA. 4IWITNESS has released a CD titled 'Man and the machine'. I haven't been able to hear their music, so I don't know if it has to deal with our musicstyle. However, the band has been influenced by some of our bands such as KANSAS, DREAM THEATER, STYX, RUSH... So, this band may be very interesting for us. More info when I get it.
 

LARRY NEIL:

Artist out of the New York area. It is hard to say if this guy is really interesting. He has been influenced by great AOR/Poprock artists like RICHARD MARX, JUDE COLE and BRYAN ADAMS. On the other hand the more poppier sounds of HALL AND OATES influenced him. It seems like his song "Down and dirty" is our kind of rock, because this song features bassist Huey Macdonald (Bon Jovi, Michael Bolton) and is said to be an 80s melodic rocker. I haven't heard any songs of Larry, but when I get to hear his music I'll be sure to review it.
 

NICKY JAMS:

Californian Rock artist. He has been influenced by both rock and pop artists (including MICHAEL SCHENKER). Let's hope his music has that 80s sound we all love so much, melodic rock. I don't know if his music is any good, but when I get the chance to hear and review it, you will hear from me.
 

RIDGE:

This is a band out of Florida, but the lead singer comes out of my country: HOLLAND! In fact, JOHN RIDGE (the lead singer) has had a long history before he formed this band RIDGE. In the early 80s he played in the RAINBOW sounding rockband E.F. BAND. This band recorded a couple of albums and had a lot of success in Sweden and England. After this, he became a very famous DJ in Germany where he interviewed some of the best such as LOU GRAMM (FOREIGNER). Musically he has now made a comeback with this RIDGE. I haven't been able to hear his music, so I don't know what to expect. However, RAINBOW and the classic rock are mentioned a lot of times as major influences for this new band. Let's hope this is true.
 

11TH HEAVEN:

A band out of the New York area. They play melodic progressive rock and were influenced by KISS, RUSH, DREAM THEATER and VAN HALEN. So far they have released a demo tape, a review of that hopefully soon.
 

SEVEN SEALS:

This German band plays progresssive melodic rock. They are influenced by WHITESNAKE, TALISMAN, but also QUEENSRYCHE and DREAM THEATER. So, expect a band that combines the best of two styles. What the result is, I don't know yet, hopefully more later.
 

KING SIZE:

This is a great new band out of Germany. The band is playing AOR and has been influenced and compared to KANSAS, JOURNEY and most of all TOTO. I heard a couple of songs from their mini-debut CD 'Initial' which was released last year and they sounded pretty good. A very interesting band that will probably get reviewed pretty soon on our website.  
 

TWO GUNS:

This band out of Boston, Massachusetts, USA is the latest new AOR sensation. I heard two songs of the band called "Marianne" and "Sweetheart" and both are in the classic 80s AOR style of NIGHT RANGER. These are really fantastic songs and this band is gonna make it for sure. The band features the songwriting team of identical twins Carl and Charles Cocchiaro, who have been working together for over 15 years in the Boston, New York, and Los Angeles areas. They have performed extensively with the likes of drummer Mike Mangini of "Extreme", bassist Danny Hargrove of "The Joe Perry Project", and singer Tommy Fey of "Farrenheit" fame. The sound of TWO GUNS is a must for all the AOR fans out there and if everything goes well, very soon a review and interview with TWO GUNS will appear on Strutter'zine.
 

SUGARTOWN:

SUGARTOWN is a British AOR band. I haven't got much info on them, but from what I heard they are a new band and their music is excellent AOR. Click here to listen to one of their songs. The band is very good and is playing pure uptempo AOR in the best 80s tradition. They remind me of a mixture between CHANGE OF HEART, AGENT and the debut of HAREM SCAREM. I think most AOR freaks will love this band. In the upcoming weeks a review of their CD on this site and more info on this new AOR sensation.
 

PARADISE:

Do not confuse this American PARADISE with the other American same named Melodic rockband that released a CD in the early 90s on a German recordlabel. This PARADISE is coming out of Pasadena, Texas. They are one of the better sounding independent recording band on the scene. They play pure 80s AOR/Melodic Rock that sounds very cheerful and a lot in the style of bands like DANGER DANGER, LOUD AND CLEAR, BON JOVI, UNDERFIRE (1992 band) and SHY TIGER. One of their songs is called "Life goes on" and this is uptempo melodic rock (very cheerful and fantastic) that reminds me of the mentioned bands. The band is currently working on their upcoming debut CD which is set to be a winner for all fans of mentioned bands. I am pretty looking forward to hear and review this exciting band.
 

STONEFLOWER:

This is a new Norwegian AOR band that features 3 former members of DIEZEL. Musically STONEFLOWER is pretty close to the sound of DIEZEL, which mean we get to hear great midtempo melodic rock/aor. Hopefully more info soon.
 

SOUNDBITE:

I haven't got any info on this band, except for the fact that this is a new AOR/Melodic Rockband. They have released a CD which will be reviewed in the next couple of weeks on our website.
 

CURIOUS WORKS:

This band is coming out of New Jersey, USA. The band features a female lead vocalist called
Marissa Von Bargen. Quite interesting, because they have an AOR sound similar to 80s HEART. Hopefully more info later.
 

MAXIMUM FORCE:

This American band is pretty good and sound very much like the 80s. Maximum Force has recorded four full-length albums and still aren't discovered by any of Melodic Rock labels. The band features Carey Kress from Face Dancer (an old AOR/Pomprock/Melodic Rockband that released 3 albums) on lead vocals. I heard a couple of songs of the band and they sounded pretty good. Songs like "Missing you" (Great AOR/Melodic rockballad), "Burning in the night", "Blood and thunder" (both heavier 80s melodic metal/hard rock a la BLACK AND BLUE) and "Dreamer" (nice midtempo melodic rocker) prove that this band should get some attention. Hopefully I'll get in touch with the band and give them an honest review on our site.
 

GEORGE PEGULA:
 
GEORGE PEGULA is coming out of New York City and is not really unknown on the scene. He received a recording credit for playing rhythm guitar on Frehley's Comet, the debut album of Ace Frehley, George's first and favorite rock guitarist. The music of GEORGE PEGULA is Melodic Rock orientated, I heard on of his songs called "Marilyn" and this is very nice melodic rock with no real similarities, maybe a bit to JIMMY HARNEN. I hope to get more info on George soon.
 

BLACK RAIN:

This band has been on the scene for a while. They were formed in 1989 and released in 1994 their debut album 'Black rain'. This CD was also be reviewed by us in one of our earlier issues of Strutter'zine. Musically the band plays good US Arena Melodic Rock with AOR influences a la BILOXI, BARAKADE, FIREHOUSE... Their only (?) CD so far was released in 1994 and the band still exists, so new material must be out there, let's hope we can review it over here.
 

RIDER:

Californian band that faetures John West on lead vocals, who have been heard with the group "Badlands," "The Cozy Powell Group," "Saints & Sinners" (the original "Whitesnake" band) and most recently on tour with Michael Lee Firkins.Their album features 5 tracks in the old WHITESNAKE style. One of the songs is called "Victim of the plan" (nice uptempo melodic rocker like old WHITESNAKE/RAINBOW). Maybe more info later.
 

U.S. 19:

Band out of Florida that is playing Progressive Melodic rock. One of the members has worked with Robby Steinhardt of KANSAS fame. I heard a couple of songs, such as "Love me forever", a nice KANSAS influenced Melodic Progressive/Pomp Rocker. Another interesting act.
 

ZIAD:

New Jersey based Melodic Rockband. I believe this band is sounding pretty professional, but I have got so less info that I can't say too much about them, but when I have more info available you will read it here.
 

COBALT BLUE:
 
A band out of Winterpark, Florida, USA. They play melodic rock and one of their songs is called "Nick of time". More info when I get it.
 

BONE ORCHARD:

Got very little info on this American band. I heard their song "Ride" and this was nice 80s typed uptempo melodic hard rock a la FIFTH ANGEL.
 

SEBASTIAN LORDS:

This guy is coming out of Spain. He has released a CD titled 'Sin miedo'. Musically he has been influenced by Arena rockbands like BON JOVI and SKID ROW, which can be heard clearly in one of his songs called "Hola tu".
 

LUNATIC FRINGE:

A band out of Los Angeles. They play Melodic Hard Rock. So far they have released 1 CD titled 'Lunatic fringe'. More info on that probably later.
 

NOT TONIGHT:

A band out of Colorado, USA. They play (Melodic) Rock which reminds me of DEAD BEAT HONEYMOONERS.
 

RASH BEHAVIOR:

Californian band that is playing 80s typed melodic hardrock a la Y&T. More info when I get it.
 

INVISIBLE SUN:

So many new bands are out there at the moment and a lot of them play our beloved musicstyle. A shame that so many of these bands are in the underground-scene, so hard to reach and get in touch with. I'll sure hope I can get in touch with this band called INVISIBLE SUN, because musically they sound pretty good. The band comes out of Colorado, USA and released an album in 1998 I believe and one of their songs is called "Don't walk away", a fantastic classic 80s sounding uptempo AOR/Melodic Rocker. This band is very interesting and hopefully more info later.
 

JAQUELYN HYDE:

This American girl has released a CD. Do not confuse her with JACQUIE from Canada who we reviewed a few weeks back. The music of this girl is typical 80s female AOR/Poprock. One of her songs is called "Hands and knees", a great early 80s typed female fronted aor/poprocker somewhere between STEFFANIE, SHEILA, early PAT BENATAR and JOSETTE. This girl is a new hope for all the fans of this genre which is making a comeback the past few years. After JOSETTE, JACQUIE, ELLYN FLEMING now we can add JAQUELYN HYDE. Hopefully much more info later.
 

HAIL MARY:

This band is coming out of Michigan, USA. HAIL MARY is playing 80s typed melodic hardrock, a bit leaning towards the heavier side of RATT and ROUGH CUTT. I heard one song called "Dusk to dawn" which falls in the mentioned style. More info when I get it.
 

GLOCKS:

I heard only one track of this band called "We are the darkness". This song had pretty much an own style and sounded like a late 70s based progressive AOR rocker. Kinda similar to GIDEONS ARMY crossed with PRODIGAL. I don't know how the rest of their songs sound, but when I get more info on this Californian band I'll post it.
 

KERRY DENNEY:

This guy comes out of Georgia, USA and is some sort of a TED NUGENT kinda guitarist/vocalist. His music is a bit 70s based groovy but melodic hard rock in the style of TED NUGENT and some UFO influences, especially in his song "Lady ecstasy". More info when I get it.
 

MIDNIGHT ANGEL:

This American band is playing the typical American mainstream Arena rock a la FIREHOUSE, LOUD'N'CLEAR... In other word, cheerful melodic rock in the typical 80s BON JOVI style. With songtitles like "Without your love", "All I want" and "Gypsy" this band is definitely a hit! Hopefully more info later.
 

WINFIELD:

Japanese Melodic Hard Rock band. They have released a mini-CD including 6 tracks. One of the songs is called "I've got you run". This is a nice uptempo melodic rocker.
 

ROCK OF AGES:

ROCK OF AGES is a German band and was found in 1996. They play pure melodic rock and with songtitles like "Broken heart", "Too late" and "When the children cry", this must be something good. Hopefully more info later.
 

NORMANDY:

AOR out of Tennessee, USA. So far, I only now they released a CD titled 'Denied' not so long ago and was told that this was a pure AOR band. When I get more info, you'll read all about it on our website.
 

MICHAEL RYAN BAND:

Another one of those bands out of the underground scene. the MICHAEL RYAN BAND seems to be a band playing 80s rock'n'roll. I heard they are a described a s amix of POISON and NIGHT RANGER. A very weird mixture, AOR meets Glam. Well, maybe more info later.
 

GREENHOUZE:
 
GREENHOUZE is a new melodic symphonic rockband. I believe they have released a 4-track CD. More info when I get it.
 

HYBRID:

Another melodic hardrockband. I heard their song "Everything" and this is a good melodic rockballad in the early 90s tradition of bands like DAMN YANKEES, FIREHOUSE, VELOCITY... I am looking forward to hear and review the rest of their songs, hopefully more info later.
 

JOE DE LUCA:
 
JOE DE LUCA comes out of Italy. He has released a CD on which we can hear pure AOR/Melodic rock. I heard one song titled "Boulevard of broken dreams" and this has a fantastic classic 80s AOR sound with a killer hookladen chorus with some great harmonyvocals. A little comparable to TERRA NOVA and LUKE ST. GOLD is this song. This guy is as good as everything that has come out of Italy the past few years. I haven't heard the rest, but I am convinced that we have to deal here with a new sensation. When I get my hands on his CD, a very good review will be published on our site.
 

NO CONTROL:

This is a very interesting melodic rockband, I heard a song of them called "Don't give up" and this is a very good 80s uptempo AOR rocker. The band has been compared to 80s NIGHT RANGER. When I get more info, you will read it here.
 

SEVENTH DREAMER:

A demo recording band. Their music is a mixture of AOR and Mainstream Arena Rock. SEVENTH DREAMER is a Christian band, so a comparison to SURE CONVICTION may be possible, but as I haven't heard their music, it is hard to compare this band. The band has released a 3-track demo-CD through S. Torres Communications Ltd.
 

BLUE THUNDER:
 
This band is close to a record-deal. They have released an album titled 'Blue thunder', which contains 80s typed melodic hardrock with influences of bands like GREAT WHITE, HOUSE OF LORDS and RATT. Pretty interesting band, hopefully soon a review.
 

THE PROWLERS:

Out of Chicago comes this 'real' Rock'n'roll band, they play 80s typed melodic hardrock. They have released two CDs so far. The first CD 'Hearts On Fire' was released in September 1998, while their second release 'When The Wolf Howl' was released in the same month! I hope to get some more info on this and of course review this band.
 

THE ALLIANCE:

Not to confuse with the other two ALLIANCE named bands. This is a band called THE ALLIANCE and they are playing melodic hardrock. Hopefully later a review of their CD and a link to their site for soundbytes, pics, etc.
 

SOUL FISHER:

Another Christian rockband. Looking at the songtitles, I think we have to deal here with a pure melodic hardrockband, but I can be wrong. More info will follow later hopefully.
 

ALIBI:

I believe this is a Dutch band. They play Melodic Rock a la BON JOVI, ZINATRA... mixed with some progressive rock influences a la SAGA. More info will hopefully follow later.
 

CUT THROAT:

I have got very little info around this band, but they play Melodic Hard Rock, so it should be of interest for us. More info when I get it.
 

MATRIX:

This band has so far released a CD including 8 tracks. This German Melodic Rockband has been noticed by producer Bob Kulick (MICHAEL BOLTON, KISS), he will probably help the band in the near future because he was very impressed about their music. Maybe we are impressed too, when we get the chance to review their CD.
 

ELLYN FLEMING:

This American girl and her backing band THE INMATES are the latest new female fronted AOR/Melodic Poprockband on the scene. They have released a couple of CDs. Musically she sounds like a cross between PAT BENATAR and HEART. That sounds very exciting and interesting. Hopefully more info later on her.
 

INSIDE OUT:

This band has been on the scene for a little longer than most other bands on this page. The band has released two CDs that contain some great American based Melodic Rock with the FIREHOUSE, DANGER DANGER similarities on a few songs. This band sounds pretty professional and also very good. I'll hope to do a review of their CDs soon.
 

SAINTS AND SHADOWS:

This band comes out of Roanoke, Va. USA and is playing Melodic Hard Rock with influences from JOURNEY, KISS and QUEENSRYCHE. Quite diverse influences, but this maybe a good band to look out for. When I get more info it will be printed here.
 

ZENITH:

A new band coming out of Switserland, I believe. They are about to release their debut CD. Musically they play progressive melodic AOR like ASIA at times as I was told. When I get more info, you will read it on our site.
 

DADDY BANNED IT:

Cincinnati Melodic Hard Rock band that have released a CD titled 'Rules' containing 10 songs. I heard a couple of songs that sounded pretty nice and remind me of th 70s/80s kinda rock'n'roll. Hopefully more info later.
 

TWO PIECE PUZZLE:

This band is clearly influenced by TOTO. TWO PIECE PUZZLE is coming out of Sweden and has a similar sound to bands like PROMOTION, HIGHER GROUND and CIOBA, although the style is a bit more pure AOR/Melodic Rock based. This band also has a female vocalist and one of their songs is called "Crazy", very much in the 80s AOR style. I can't barely wait to hear more of this interesting band. A must for female fronted AOR bands.
 

TAXI:

Not to confuse with the 80s UK AOR/Poprockband that released about 4 LPs. This American (?) TAXI has already released a couple of albums and some songs sound pretty good. Their new release will be titled 'Crystal blue' and the band is playing some good old 80s styled melodic rock/aor. Pretty good actually! Hopefully more info later.
 

STEFAN NAGEL:

This guy is coming out of Germany and is playing melodic rock. No further info yet.
 

SIN DIZZY:

This band features former STRYPER members and their debut CD has two parts. One part is filled with great Californian Melodic Rock a la STRYPER, but the other is more 90s based. Still an interesting release, hopefully soon a review.
 

MIDNIGHT ROSE:

MIDNIGHT ROSE is not a new band, in fact they split up ten years ago. But still nobody has ever heard of the band, although they made quite some material (no albums) back in the 80s containing pure AOR/Melodic rock in songs such as "A place to run" and "Midnight rose", they sounded like that band called FRONTIER. However there are rumours about burning all the  material of this band on a CDR, seems like a pretty cool idea. 
 

BSR:

Another groovy Bluesy Melodic Hardrockband like a mix between TESLA and BAD COMPANY. When I get more info, you will read it on our site.
 

DEVIL'S NITE LIAR:

This band is playing somewhat groovy Melodic Rock like TESLA, FLAME, sounds o.k. to me. Maybe more info later.
 

DEAN MADONIA:

This guy has released a CD titled 'Deep sky', I heard only song called "The falling of our love" which musically is calmer AOR like DAVE BALDWIN. I was told rest of the material is a bit alternative, but first I have to listen the whole CD before I can recommend or not recommend this artist.
 

JEFF SCOTT:

Do not confuse this JEFF SCOTT with both Jef Scott (who released a couple of solo-albums in the 80s that contained average aor/poprock) and JEFF SCOTT SOTO (The session vocalist with whom we have an interview in our upcoming new issue, issue 14). This JEFF SCOTT has released some material and hopefully I'll get my hands on his CD 'Discipline ', which is said to be a classic 80s Melodic Rock album in the old DOKKEN style, with songtitles like "SOMEONE LIKE YOU", "WHEN THE LOVE IS GONE", "WHEN THE SHOW IS OVER" and "WITHOUT YOU", this must be an interesting quality AOR/Melodic rockalbum. More info will follow when I get it.
 

STREET LEGAL:

This is a new Norwegian Melodic Hard Rock band. They consist of TNT producer Ken Ingwersen on guitar, former DA VINCI bass player Bjorn Boge on lead vocals/bass and drummer Bjorn Olav Lauvdal. There will also be a keyboard player added to the live lineup. I think the band sounds a bit like HUSH, also a Norwegian band that released an excellent CD last year which we also reviewed. We also had an interview with HUSH in issue 13. Hopefully more info on STREET LEGAL later.
 

JOHNNY DEMARCO:

This artist is coming out of Vancouver, Canada and has been produced by Ray Roper from STONEBOLT. He has released a CD titled 'If these walls could talk' which contains mainly AOR/Poprock like the 80s sounds of guys like JIMMY HARNEN, JIMMY DAVIS, STEVE STONE, BRIAN SPENCE, JOHN WAITE... I heard a couple of songs and they sounded pretty nice. Probably more info later.
 

180:

WOW!!! It seems that AOR is really coming back. The underground AOR bands keep on coming our way. Just great, because the quality also seems to be as good as the MTM quality. 180 (ONE EIGHTY) is the my latest discovery in the AOR scene. This pure AOR band has released one CD so far. I heard the opener called "Don't be lonely" and this is classic 80s uptempo AOR like AVIATOR, FM, THE STORM, JOURNEY, STRANGEWAYS, 8084, AIRRACE, etc. etc. A fantastic song and this band is another promise for the future. I believe the band has been helped by Kevin Chalfant and some JOURNEY members for an upcoming full-length CD. Hopefully a review and interview with this band soon.
 

PEACE & QUIET:

Forget about all the bands proclaiming they are playing AOR or even Pomprock. PEACE & QUIET is one of the best independent recording bands I discovered lately. They come out of Utah, USA and have released an album titled 'Peace & Quiet'. I heard a couple of songs and they sound really fantastic. One of their songs is called "Keep on pushin'", the ultimate dream for a fan of late 70s/early 80s AOR/Pomprock. This song is really superb classic AOR/Pomp. The songs starts with some Classic Pomp piano-keys like LE ROUX/SUGARCREEK/SHELTER and in fact the whole song is in exactly the same style as classic AOR/Pompbands such as LE ROUX, SUGARCREEK, ROADMASTER, TOUCH. Maybe some of you don't believe it, but it really true, this band is really awesome AOR/Pomp like it was made in the early 80s. Some of their other songs are sounding like HEAD EAST and are also great such as "Leave that world" and "Paradise". Don't look any further, because this band will hopefully be reviewed and interviewed by us as soon as possible. A band to look out for and definitely one of the most promising acts for the future. No doubt about it! 
 

MITCH PERRY:

This guy has appeared on many albums in his career. He played as guitarist on albums of MSG, HEAVEN, BAD BOYZZ, KEEL, HOUSE OF LORDS, JAMES CHRISTIAN... Now he has also started releasing solo-albums, his latest CD is called 'Better late than never'. The musicstyle on this CD is pure Melodic Hardrock in the great 80s tradition. I heard a song called "Don't wanna hear your heart break" and this is a great melodic rockballad in the DON DOKKEN style. I hope to check this CD out and post more info and hopefully a review later on our website.
 

VAMP LE STAT:

This band comes out of Sacramento, California and have released a CD titled 'Filth'. I haven't heard anything, but I was told this was a melodic hardrockband. I have to find out if that is true and if so, more info will follow.
 

Visit our WebSite in the future and you will fully be informed about any band in the world that is playing AOR, MELODIC ROCK or POMPROCK. Strutter'zine believes in AOR, do you?