A - METAL CD LIST
A Hero for the World - s/t 3/5 (generic yet fairly catchy power metal debut; one negative is occasionally the vocalist tries to stretch his range and comes off as really strained) - CLINT
A New Dawn - Seven faces of truth 3.5/5 (2nd CD from this “beauty and the beast” gothic metal band with some diversity musically and vocally; the debut is a bit better) - CLINT
A New Dawn - Falling from grace 4/5 (awesome symphonic/gothic/power metal debut with a wide variety of both female and male vocals, including 3 female vocalists) - CLINT
A Sorrowful Dream - Toward nothingness 4/5 (dramatic often rocking female and deep male vocal symphonic/gothic metal debut with epic black metal passages) - CHRIS
A Sound of Thunder - Time's arrow 4/5 A Sound of Thunder Review - KIT
A Sound of Thunder - Out of the darkness 4/5 A Sound of Thunder Review - KIT
A Sound of Thunder - Metal renaissance (hopefully coming soon)
A Tortured Soul - Lucifer's fate 4/5 A Tortured Soul Review - KIT
A Tortured Soul - Kiss of the thorn 3.5/5 (2nd CD of cool dark U.S. traditional metal with vocals that hit a King Diamond falsetto and an early Halford mid-range) - KIT
A Tortured Soul - Tomorrow's door (hopefully coming soon)
Abandoned - Thrash you! 4/5 (much improved 2nd CD of old-school thrash from Germany; they fixed the guitar tone and vocals that hampered the debut) - KIT
Abandoned - Thrash notes 3.5/5 Abandoned Review - KIT
Abattoir - The only safe place 4/5 - MICHAEL
Abattoir - Vicious attack 3/5 - MICHAEL
Abomination - Tragedy strikes 3/5 - MICHAEL
Abomination - s/t 3/5 - MICHAEL
Abonos - s/t 3.5/5 Abonos Review - CLINT
Abordazh - The quiet life, not for us 4/5 Abordazh Review - CLINT
Abordazh - Hell storm 3/5 (good but unspectacular Russian-language heavy/power metal debut in the style of Aria, Teatr Teney, Staya, Olvy and Gran-Kurazh) - CLINT
Above Symmetry - Ripples 4/5 (outstanding melodic/progressive/power metal debut for fans of Seventh Wonder, Circus Maximus and Pathosray; previously Aspera) - CLINT
Abraxas - Tomorrow's world 4.5/5 (overlooked progressive power metal debut from the 90s with terrific songs, featuring vocalist Chris Clauke of Mania fame) - JOHN
Absolute Steel - Womanizer 3.5/5 Absolute Steel Review - MICHAEL
Absolute Steel - The fair bitch project 3/5 - MICHAEL
Absolva - Flames of justice 3.5/5 Absolva Review - CREAG
Abstrakt Algebra - s/t 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Abuser - Threats of fate 3/5 (quality Italian thrash debut for fans of Hyades, Tornado, Conviction, and Ursus; has a killer cover of Whiplash) - MICHAEL
Abyss - Sin angeles (hopefully coming soon)
Abyss - Redencion 3/5 - KIT
Accept - Stalingrad 4.5/5 Accept Review - CRAIG
Accept - Blood of nations 4.5/5 (all-time legendary metallers return with a CD that, in some ways, is better than anything they’ve ever done) - CRAIG
Accept - Predator 2/5 - CRAIG
Accept - Death row 3/5 - CRAIG
Accept - Objection overruled 3/5 - CRAIG
Accept - Eat the heat 1/5 - CRAIG
Accept - Russian roulette 4/5 - CRAIG
Accept - Metal heart 3.5/5 - CRAIG
Accept - Balls to the wall 4.5/5 - CRAIG
Accept - Restless and wild 4/5 - CRAIG
Accept - Breaker 2.5/5 - CRAIG
Accept - I'm a rebel 2.5/5 - CRAIG
Accept - s/t 2.5/5 - CRAIG
Access Denied - Touch of evil 3/5 (impressive female fronted epic metal from Poland comparable to Sledge Leather, Hellion, Zed Yago and Velvet Viper; their 2nd CD) - MICHAEL
Access Denied - The memorial (hopefully coming soon)
Accused (The) - The curse of Martha Splatterhead 3/5 (no Blaine, but there's still more fun and insane splatterthrash anthems) - MICHAEL
Accused (The) - Oh Martha! 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Accused (The) - Splatter rock 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Accused (The) - Grinning like an undertaker 3/5 - MICHAEL
Accused (The) - Martha Spladderhead's maddest stories ever told 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Accused (The) - More fun than an open casket funeral 4.5/5 - MICHAEL
Accused (The) - The return of... Martha Splatterhead 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Accuser - Dependent domination (hopefully coming soon)
Accuser - Agitation (hopefully coming soon)
Accuser - Taken by the throat 3/5 - MICHAEL
Accuser - Reflections 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Accuser - Repent 3/5 - MICHAEL
Accuser - Double talk 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Accuser - Who dominates who? 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Accuser - The conviction 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Achren - The forgotten king 4/5 (self-styled blood metallers do not disappoint on their long-delayed debut; razorwire black/thrash mayhem abounds) - CREAG
Acid - Engine beast 3/5 - MICHAEL
Acid - Maniac 3/5 - MICHAEL
Acid - s/t 3/5 - MICHAEL
Acid Reign - Obnoxious 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Acid Reign - The fear 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Aclla - Landscape revolution 3/5 (fairly catchy guitar-driven heavy/power metal debut that contains both average and great songs, and the vocalist is merely okay) - CLINT
Acolyte - Oceans of blood 3/5 (very nice melodic power metal debut with symphonic, neo-classical and epic elements; nothing spectacular, but it's a good start) - CLINT
Acridity - For freedom I cry 3/5 - MICHAEL
Ad Vitam Aeternam - Abstract senses 3/5 (nicely done female fronted symphonic metal debut with some "beast" vocals; a darker/slower Leaves' Eyes or Elis perhaps) - CLINT
Adagio - Archangels in black 3.5/5 (progressive power metal band's 4th CD, which contains their usual symphonic/neo-classical elements, but a new vocalist) - CLINT
Adagio - Dominate 3.5/5 (3rd CD that incorporates a few death/thrash influences into the progressive neo-classical metal style of their first few CDs) - CLINT
Adagio - Underworld 2.5/5 - CLINT
Adagio - Sanctus ignis 3.5/5 - CLINT
Adamant - Blood of dawn 3.5/5 (thoroughly enjoyable Russian-language heavy/power metal debut with some keys; similar to Abordazh, Gran-Kurazh and Krilya) - CLINT
Adamanter - The shadow mirror 1.5/5 (unappetizing and underdeveloped power metal debut with lots of keys and a wretched production) - KIT
Adamantra - Revival 4/5 Adamantra Review - CLINT
Adastra - Corroder of minds (hopefully coming soon)
Adastra - Death or domination 3.5/5 (2nd CD of Finnish traditional metal; too diverse/uneven sometimes, but "Helsinki 1939" is a killer) - KIT
Adastra - The last sunset 3.5/5 Adastra Review - KIT
Adastreia - That which lies within 3.5/5 (great female fronted symphonic/gothic/power metal debut comparable to Epica, Nightwish, After Forever, Atargatis and so on) - CLINT
Addictive - Kick 'em hard (hopefully coming soon)
Addictive - Pity of man 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Adiastasia - Life war 2.5/5 (debut in the Italian power metal style of early Kaledon, Dragonhammer, Dark Horizon and Derdian, but I also hear Heavenblast) - CLINT
Adolf Castle - Really crazy Germans 3.5/5 (quirky, tongue-in-cheek Russian melodic power metal debut ranging from the ridiculous to the sublime) - KIT
Adramelch - Lights from oblivion 2.5/5 (3rd CD from this band that usually blends progressive metal and epic power metal, but this is mostly prog and way too light) - CLINT
Adramelch - Broken history 3/5 (long overdue follow-up to their much acclaimed debut; a blend of progressive metal and epic power metal that works quite well) - CLINT
Adramelch - Irae melanox 3.5/5 - CLINT
Adrana - The ancient realms 4/5 (awesome 2nd CD of French symphonic power metal with operatic female vocals; improved in all areas over the debut) - CLINT
Adrana - Perturbatio 3.5/5 Adrana Review - CLINT
Adrenicide - Power shift (hopefully coming soon)
Adrenicide - War begs no mercy 3/5 Adrenicide Review - MICHAEL
Adrenicide - Kill 3/5 (dirty rotten U.K. thrashsouls return with 21 minor threatening new clear assaults a la Wehrmacht, Short Sharp Shock and Gama Bomb) - MICHAEL
Adrenicide - Natural born thrashers 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Adrenicide - Raging full on 3/5 - MICHAEL
Adrenicide - Drunk with power 3/5 - MICHAEL
Adrenicide - All went black 3/5 - MICHAEL
ADX - Immortel 3/5 (French thrashers try to be heavy, and not as fast imitating Paradox and Paragon, but also Killers and Evil One; their 8th CD) - MICHAEL
ADX - Terreurs 3.5/5 (excellent re-recording of their classic 'La terreur' and demos reworked with a better production; similar to Inferno Records' bands) - MICHAEL
ADX - Division blindee 3/5 (decent comeback of French 80s-style thrash for fans of Killers, Agressor and Paradox; their 6th CD and it's sung in French) - MICHAEL
ADX - Resurrection 3/5 - MICHAEL
ADX - Weird visions 4/5 - MICHAEL
ADX - Suprematie 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
ADX - La terreur 3/5 - MICHAEL
ADX - Execution 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Aella - s/t 3.5/5 (promising all-female and Russian-language heavy/power metal debut that's a nice blend of D.I.V.A and 5 Elements; these chicks are hot as hell too!) - CLINT
Aerian Rage - Fist of steel 3.5/5 (compilation that’s an enjoyable collection of raw early 80s demos from this fine California traditional metal outfit) - KIT
Aerium (The) - Song for the dead king 2.5/5 (debut with influences from Visions of Atlantis, Epica, Nightwish and After Forever; lacking a bit in song quality though) - CLINT
Afflicted - Dawn of glory 3/5 - MICHAEL
Afflicted - Prodigal sun 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
After All - Dawn of the enforcer (hopefully coming soon)
After All - Cult of sin (hopefully coming soon)
After All - This violent decline 3.5/5 (convincing rebound for veteran Belgian melodic thrashers; fans of better Perzonal War and Abandoned, take note) - KIT
After All - The vermin breed 2.5/5 (Johns-produced Belgian thrash let down by too many mediocre moments) - KIT
After All - Mercury rising (hopefully coming soon)
After All - Dead loss (hopefully coming soon)
After All - Transcendent (hopefully coming soon)
After All - Wonder (hopefully coming soon)
After Forever - s/t 3.5/5 (their last few CDs were disappointing, but this is a focused and consistent CD from one of the more popular symphonic/gothic metal bands) - CLINT
After Forever - Remagine 2.5/5 (very unfocused 4th CD that has some great songs, but unfortunately some weird off-the-wall songs as well) - CLINT
After Forever - Invisible circles 2.5/5 After Forever Review - CLINT
After Forever - Decipher 3.5/5 - CLINT
After Forever - Prison of desire 4/5 - CLINT
Aftermath (Swe) - Tides of sorrow 3.5/5 (upbeat female fronted symphonic/gothic/power metal debut with terrific vocals and strong songwriting; very promising start) - CLINT
Aftermath (AZ, U.S.) - Don't cheer me up 4/5 - MICHAEL
Aftermath (IL, U.S.) - Eyes of tomorrow 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Aftershok - Burning chrome 3/5 (2nd CD that's a major improvement over the debut, speedier and with more power metal influences shining through) - KIT
Aftershok - Unfinished business 2/5 - KIT
Afterworld - Connecting animals 2/5 (lesser quality 2nd CD from this power metal band with gruff vocals) - JOHN
Afterworld - Dark side of mind 2.5/5 - JOHN
Age of Artemis - Overcoming limits 4/5 Age of Artemis Review - CLINT
Age of Distrust - Whispers of war (EP) 3/5 Age of Distrust Review - CREAG
Age of Evil - A.O.E. (hopefully coming soon)
Age of Evil - Living a sick dream 3/5 (debut that's a mismash of old/new metal styles from these Arizona teens; some songs are great, but some are painful) - KIT
Age of Taurus - Desperate souls of tortured times 3.5/5 (powerful U.K. doom debut with traditional metal accents, monster riffs, and vocals like Brian Ross) - KIT
Agent Steel - Alienigma 4/5 Agent Steel Review - CRAIG
Agent Steel - Order of the illuminati 3.5/5 Agent Steel Review - CRAIG
Agent Steel - Omega conspiracy 3/5 - CRAIG
Agent Steel - Unstoppable force 4/5 - CRAIG
Agent Steel - Skeptics apocalypse 4/5 - CRAIG
Aggelos - Mantos purpureos 3.5/5 (debut of epic mid-paced Spanish-language symphonic gothic metal with soprano and death vocals; like early Epica and Xandria) - CHRIS
Aggression (Can) - Forgotten skeleton 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Aggression (Can) - The full treatment 3/5 - MICHAEL
Aggression (Spa) - Viocracy (hopefully coming soon)
Aggression (Spa) - Moshpirit 3.5/5 (debut that's unapologetic Bay Area thrash worship from Spain; a notch above many CDs of its ilk) - KIT
Aggressor - By any means necessary 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Aghonya - Oxygen 3.5/5 (exciting female fronted symphonic/gothic metal debut with a progressive side; overall is like a mix of After Forever and Ebony Ark) - CLINT
Agincourt - Angels of mons 3/5 (traditionally inspired Pure Steel Records metal debut in the vein of Savage, Saracen, Quartz and Cloven Hoof) - MICHAEL
Agressor - Victim of yourself 3/5 - MICHAEL
Agonizer - Birth/The end 4/5 Agonizer Review - SEAN
Agony - The first defiance 4.5/5 - MICHAEL
Agresiva - Eternal foe 3.5/5 (Spanish thrash act channel Anthrax, but also give us a hint of Mesmerize and Petty Pew, with this debut) - MICHAEL
Ahoora - Awkward diary (hopefully coming soon)
Ahoora - All in blood with you (hopefully coming soon)
Ahoora - s/t 3/5 - MICHAEL
Ahrcana - Into the prophecy 3/5 (catchy debut similar to Mesmerize; has some very cool guitar work) - CLINT
Aiming High - Metal fighter squadron 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Aina - Days of rising doom 3.5/5 (very good metal opera with a massive story and a collaboration of popular members from other bands) - CLINT
Air Raid - Night of the axe 4/5 Air Raid Review - KIT
Airborn - Legend of Madog 3.5/5 (3rd CD of power metal with plenty of speed and some fun choruses; has a few average songs, but most of the songs are winners) - CLINT
Airborn - D-generation 3.5/5 (very solid 2nd CD that's consistent with their fast-paced and exciting debut) - CLINT
Airborn - Against the world 3.5/5 - CLINT
Airdash - Both ends of the path (hopefully coming soon)
Airdash - Hospital hallucinations take one 3/5 - MICHAEL
Airdash - Thank God it's monday (hopefully coming soon)
Airged L'Amh - Ode to salvation 4/5 Airged L'Amh Review - CRAIG
Airged L'Amh - The silver arm 3/5 Airged L'Amh Review - CRAIG
Airged L'Amh - The silver arm 3/5 Airged L'Amh Review - KIT
Airged L'Amh - One eyed god (hopefully coming soon)
Airwolf - Victory bells 3/5 - MICHAEL
Ajedra - Secrets of the mirrors 3.5/5 Ajedra Review - CLINT
Ajedra - Servants of a dream 3/5 - CLINT
Akashic - A brand new day 2/5 (disappointing 2nd CD of progressive metal that has less power metal and neo-classical influences than their debut; for prog fans only) - CLINT
Akashic - Timeless realm 3.5/5 (very pleasing debut similar to Symphony X, but with an Evergrey feel in spots) - CLINT
Alas - Absolute purity 2/5 (female fronted heavy/gothic metal debut with vocals that don't seem to fit the music) - CLINT
Alas Negras - The slasher show 3/5 (hard-hitting horror-themed Puerto Rican power/thrash a la Brainstorm, Imagika and heavier Vicious Rumors; their 3rd CD) - KIT
Alas Negras - Bella morte (hopefully coming soon)
Alas Negras - Solo dos monedas 2.5/5 (good Spanish traditional metal debut drowning in a woefully substandard production job) - KIT
Albatrhoz - La vision de los profetas 3.5/5 Albatrhoz Review - KIT
Alcatrazz - Dangerous games 3/5 - MICHAEL
Alcatrazz - Disturbing the peace 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Alcatrazz - No parole from rock 'n' roll 3/5 - MICHAEL
Alcoholator - Coma 3/5 (Canadian drunken speed metal debut similar to Annihilator, Razormaze, Evil One and Evil Survives) - MICHAEL
Aldious - Determination 3.5/5 (great all-female Japanese bevy of beauties for fans of Galneryus, Animetal and Elvenstorm; their 2nd CD) - MICHAEL
Aldious - Deep exceed 3.5/5 - CLINT
Alestorm - Back through time 3/5 Alestorm Review - CREAG
Alestorm - Black sails at midnight 4/5 Alestorm Review - CREAG
Alestorm - Captain Morgan's revenge 4/5 Alestorm Review - CREAG
Alexandria - Ice and fire 3/5 (good female fronted Russian-language symphonic/gothic metal, but it's too long with 16 songs that are very similar) - CLINT
Alexis - Rainforce (hopefully coming soon)
Alexis - Birds of prey 3/5 Alexis Review - KIT
Alhambra - Siegfried 4/5 (excellent 4th CD of female fronted Japanese-language power metal with progressive elements; fans of this band need to check out Light Bringer) - CLINT
Alhambra - Solitude 3.5/5 (catchy 3rd CD of female fronted Japanese-language power metal, but this time with even more progressive elements, which works well) - CLINT
Alhambra - Fadista 3.5/5 Alhambra Review - CLINT
Alhambra - A far cry to you 3.5/5 - CLINT
Aliy Rassvet - In search of new revolutions (hopefully coming soon)
Aliy Rassvet - Wings of angels 3/5 (Russian-language debut with some strong highlights, but is hampered by a tin-can production and occasional loss of focus) - KIT
Alkateya - Lycanthropy 3/5 (epic true metal debut from Portugal at times channeling a strong NWOBHM flavor) - KIT
Alkemyst - Through painful lanes 3.5/5 Alkemyst Review - CLINT
Alkemyst - Meeting in the mist 3.5/5 (great debut from France in the Italian power metal style with a slight progressive touch) - CLINT
Alkoholizer - Drunk or dead 2.5/5 (generic retrothrash debut from Italy with songs about beer and violence; not bad, but kind of pointless Tankard/Slayer worship) - KIT
Alkonost - Tales of wandering 3.5/5 (very good CD from this Russian-language “beauty and the beast” folk metal band; features a new female vocalist) - CLINT
Alkonost - Tales of wandering 4/5 Alkonost Review - CHRIS
Alkonost - On the wings of the call 3.5/5 (Russian-language "beauty and the beast" folk metal band returns with a smooth and melodic CD, but it's not their best) - CLINT
Alkonost - Stone heart blood 3.5/5 (Russian-language folk metal band returns with their "beauty and the beast" vocals and sweet melodies; one of their slower CDs) - CLINT
Alkonost - Songs of the eternal oak 2.5/5 (their first CD, now re-released with more songs and is sung in Russian this time; not as good as some of their other CDs) - CLINT
Alkonost - The path we've never made 4/5 Alkonost Review - CLINT
Alkonost - Mezhmirie 4/5 - CLINT
Alkonost - Between the worlds 3.5/5 - CLINT
Alkonost - s/t 3/5 - CLINT
All Souls' Day - Into the mourning 3.5/5 All Souls' Day Review - KIT
All Too Human - Juggernaut 3/5 (3rd CD that’s a heavy effort with some suggestive songs, similar to Crawl 2 Chaos, Attica Rage, Eternal Legacy, etc.) - MICHAEL
All Too Human - Entropy (hopefully coming soon)
All Too Human - Forever and a day (hopefully coming soon)
Allegro - s/t 3/5 (nice debut of Brazilian melodic power metal with a soft vocalist similar to Wonderland's) - CLINT
Allegro from my Requiem - Chapter I 3.5/5 (promising melodic power metal debut with neo-classical/symphonic elements, and both female and clean male vocals) - CLINT
Allen, Russell - Atomic soul 3.5/5 Allen, Russell Review - DAVID
Allen-Lande - The showdown 3.5/5 (melodic power metal frontmen Russell Allen and Jorn Lande lock horns for this 3rd CD; above average and for fans of Jorn/Masterplan) - SEAN
Allen-Lande - The revenge 3.5/5 (2 powerhouse vocalists in the melodic metal scene join forces to deliver a memorable CD in the vein of Masterplan) - SEAN
Allen-Lande - The battle 4/5 Allen-Lande Review - DAVID
Allos - Spiritual battle 3.5/5 (really good Brazilian melodic/progressive power metal debut with Christian lyrics; surely for fans of Angra, Shaman, Almah, Viper, Aquaria, etc.) - CLINT
Alltheniko - Back in 2066 (hopefully coming soon)
Alltheniko - Millennium re-burn 3.5/5 (solid 3rd CD from consistent Italian heavy power metallers; for fans of early Rage, Sencirow and Thunderblast) - KIT
Alltheniko - Devasterpiece 4/5 Alltheniko Review - KIT
Alltheniko - We will fight! 3.5/5 (enthusiastic Italian power/thrash metal debut with scorching riffs and screamy old-school thrash vocals) - KIT
Almah - Motion 3.5/5 (Brazilian band’s 3rd CD, and it’s their heaviest to date; surely has moments of greatness, but their previous ‘Fragile equality’ is better) - CLINT
Almah - Fragile equality 4/5 (fantastic 2nd CD of Brazilian power metal; highly recommended to fans of Angra, Shaman, Aquaria, Glory Opera, Symmetrya, etc.) - CLINT
Almah - Fragile equality 4/5 Almah Review - JOHN
Almah - s/t 3/5 (Angra vocalist's debut that has a wide song variety, but I like most of the songs; fans of Angra, Shaman and Symbols check it out) - CLINT
Almas Militares - Batalla en el septimo cielo (hopefully coming soon)
Almas Militares - s/t 4/5 (high-velocity Spanish-language melodic power metal that's like a less thrashy and more epic Sheratan; their 2nd CD) - KIT
Almas Militares - Nubes de gloria (hopefully coming soon)
Almora - Kiyamet senfonisi 3/5 (female fronted folk metal band is back with their 5th CD, but it's less exciting than previous efforts; their first CD entirely sung in Turkish) - CLINT
Almora - 1945 4/5 (female fronted folk metal band's excellent 4th CD, but the total running time is much too short) - CLINT
Almora - 1945 3.5/5 Almora Review - MICHAEL
Almora - Shehrazad 4.5/5 Almora Review - CLINT
Almora - Kalihora's song 4.5/5 - CLINT
Almora - Gates of time 4/5 - CLINT
Alogia - Price o snovima (hopefully coming soon)
Alogia - Secret spheres of art 4/5 Alogia Review - DAVID
Alogia - Price o zivotu (hopefully coming soon)
Alogia - Price o vremenu (hopefully coming soon)
Alpha Tiger - Beneath the surface 4.5/5 Alpha Tiger Review - KIT
Alpha Tiger - Man or machine 4.5/5 Alpha Tiger Review - KIT
Alsion - Dawn of a new age 2.5/5 Alsion Review - CLINT
Alsion - A kingdom beyond 2/5 - CLINT
Altar of Oblivion - Grand gesture of defiance (hopefully coming soon)
Altar of Oblivion - Sinews of anguish 4/5 (debut that's a masterful classic epic doom concept CD through the eyes of a WWII German soldier; haunting stuff) - KIT
Altaria - Unholy 2.5/5 (4th CD of melodic metal, but with more hard rock leanings this time that simply don't interest me; nothing horrible, but nothing special either) - CLINT
Altaria - The fallen empire 3.5/5 (predictable but thoroughly enjoyable 3rd CD of melodic metal with plenty of guitar/keyboard solos and memorable choruses) - CLINT
Altaria - Divinity 4/5 (fantastic 2nd CD with a new singer; catchy and passionate melodic metal at a very high level) - CLINT
Altaria - Invitation 3/5 (fine debut of catchy melodic metal with the vocalist from Requiem; quite memorable) - CLINT
Always Fallen - The age of rivalry (hopefully coming soon)
Always Fallen - Reflection 2.5/5 (Belgian debut on Mausoleum Records; combines Trivium, thrash, metalcore, groove and touches of power metal) - KIT
Amalthea - Book of dead names 2.5/5 (Russian-language power metal debut with nothing really wrong and it’s decent, but there are better CDs in the style/language) - CLINT
Amaran - Pristine in bondage 3/5 (intriguing hybrid of melodic death styled music with good female vocals a la Anneke or Scabbia; their 2nd CD) - KIT
Amaran - A world depraved 3.5/5 - KIT
Amaranthe - The nexus 3/5 (2nd CD from metalcore/power metal group led by Elize Ryd; travels the same path as the debut, with not much improvement or evolvement) - SEAN
Amaranthe - s/t 3/5 Amaranthe Review - SEAN
Amazon - Nature’s last ride (hopefully coming soon)
Amazon - Victoria Regia 3.5/5 Amazon Review - CLINT
Ambcrave - Mind on sale 3/5 (diverse Norwegian dark metal indy debut that has me thinking of a more epic Hollow; good, but quirky, stuff) - KIT
Amber - Abyss (hopefully coming soon)
Amber - Amber dreamland (hopefully coming soon)
Amber - The black way 3.5/5 (intriguing Russian metal with male/female clean vocals, folky guitars, and a mix of power metal and subdued bits; formerly Ambehr) - KIT
Amberian Dawn - Circus black 4.5/5 (power metal band’s 4th CD, with wonderful female vocals and symphonic/neo-classical highlights; I love this band) - CLINT
Amberian Dawn - End of Eden 4.5/5 (spectacular 3rd CD of female fronted neo-classical/symphonic power metal; surely one of my favorite bands!) - CLINT
Amberian Dawn - The clouds of northland thunder 4.5/5 Amberian Dawn Review - CLINT
Amberian Dawn - River of Tuoni 4/5 Amberian Dawn Review - CLINT
Amederia - Sometimes we have wings 4/5 (powerful atmospheric/gothic/doom metal debut with "beauty and the beast" vocals and a massive Draconian influence; killer!) - CLINT
Amethys - Gallery of lives 3/5 (French progressive power metal with male/female vocals and symphonic bits, and it’s on the lightweight side; their 3rd CD) - KIT
Amethys - Asmethee (hopefully coming soon)
Amethys - Les ombres de metal (hopefully coming soon)
Amethyst - Time of slaughters 2.5/5 (average Italian thrash debut in the vein of Game Over and Brain Dead; just not up to par with their compatriots) - MICHAEL
Amok - Downhill without brakes 4/5 Amok Review - CREAG
Amon Amarth - Deceiver of the gods 3.5/5 (another excellent offering, and the bonus EP includes originals in the vein of Judas Priest, Black Sabbath and Motorhead) - MICHAEL
Amon Amarth - Surtur rising 3.5/5 (viking Swedes elucidate the living myths; musically this 8th CD isn’t as good as past efforts, but the cover tracks have merit) - MICHAEL
Amon Amarth - Twilight of the thunder god 4/5 (truly a noble melodic effort from the striving kings of Sweden; their 7th CD) - MICHAEL
Amon Amarth - With Oden on our side 3/5 - MICHAEL
Amon Amarth - Fate of norns 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Amon Amarth - Versus the world 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Amon Amarth - The crusher 3/5 - MICHAEL
Amon Amarth - The avenger 3/5 - MICHAEL
Amon Amarth - Once sent from the golden hall 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Amon-Ra - In the company of the gods 3/5 - MICHAEL
Amorphis - The beginning of times 4/5 (this band continues to evolve; with the introduction of female vocals, they elevate their stature) - MICHAEL
Amorphis - Skyforger 4/5 (searing syncretic blend of brutality, Finnish folk melodies, hippy vibes, and consistent experimentation; their 9th CD) - MICHAEL
Amorphis - Silent waters 3.5/5 (Finnish legends find their own sound with a new singer, finally rediscovering their roots and legacy) - MICHAEL
Amorphis - Eclipse 3/5 - MICHAEL
Amorphis - Far from the sun 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Amorphis - Am universum 3/5 - MICHAEL
Amorphis - Tuonela 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Amorphis - Elegy 4.5/5 - MICHAEL
Amorphis - Tales from the thousand lakes 4/5 - MICHAEL
Amorphis - The karelian isthmus 3/5 - MICHAEL
Amulance - The rage within and the aftermath 4/5 (long-lost demos from cult 80s U.S. speed metal act unearthed, cleaned up, and unleashed) - KIT
Amulance - Feel the pain 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Anabioz - To light 3/5 (solid but somewhat monotonous 2nd CD of folk metal from Russia with female and deep male vocals; similar to Alkonost, Tverd and Natural Spirit) - CLINT
Anabioz - Through darkness 3/5 (folk metal debut from Russia with "beauty and the beast" vocals, a la Alkonost; strong musically, but merely decent vocally) - CLINT
Anachronia - One second before 3/5 (2nd CD of melodic/progressive/gothic metal; the “beauty” has a wonderful and soft voice like Liv Kristine, but I don’t really like the “beast”) - CLINT
Anachronia - The endless agony 3/5 (interesting female fronted debut with slight similarities to Leaves' Eyes, Elis and Midnattsol; took some time to grow on me) - CLINT
Anacrusis - Screams and whispers 4.5/5 - CRAIG
Anacrusis - Manic impressions 3.5/5 - CRAIG
Anacrusis - Reason 3.5/5 - CRAIG
Anacrusis - Suffering hour 3.5/5 - CRAIG
Anadies - Prevail 4/5 (wonderful 2nd CD of female fronted melodic/gothic metal that's overall somewhere between Liquid Sky and Diluvium; surely recommended) - CLINT
Anadies - Formamentum 3.5/5 - CLINT
Ananke - Diary of an illusion 3.5/5 (Italian power metal debut like a blend of Infinity, Oracle Sun, Heavenblast, Concept and Wonderland; standard but great) - CLINT
Anarion - Beneath it all (hopefully coming soon)
Anarion - Unbroken 3/5 (Australian thrash/power metal with moments of brilliance amidst chunks of mediocrity; their 2nd CD) - KIT
Anarion - The journey begins (hopefully coming soon)
Ancara - Chasing shadows 2.5/5 (fairly decent 3rd CD from this melodic metal band, but some of the songs are more in the realm of melodic rock and too light for me) - CLINT
Ancara - Beyond the dark 3/5 (2nd CD of melodic metal with a hard rock edge; sits between Altaria and Last Tribe, but isn't quite as good as the CDs from these bands) - CLINT
Ancara - The dawn 2.5/5 - CLINT
Ancestral - The ancient curse 4/5 Ancestral Review - CLINT
Ancestral Legacy - Nightmare diaries 2.5/5 (2nd CD of mid-paced guitar-driven melodic metal with progressive black metal, and laid-back female and black vocals) - CHRIS
Ancestral Legacy - Of magic illusions (hopefully coming soon)
Ancient Bards - Soulless child 4/5 Ancient Bards Review - SEAN
Ancient Bards - The alliance of the kings 4/5 Ancient Bards Review - SEAN
Ancient Cross - s/t 4/5 (dark crunchy U.S. traditional metal debut with stellar riffs; like Metal Church, Omen, Attacker, Steel Assassin, etc.) - KIT
Ancient Myth - Akashic 3.5/5 Ancient Myth Review - CLINT
Ancient Myth - Astrolabe in your heart 3.5/5 - CLINT
Andem - Winter tears 4/5 (excellent 3rd CD from this female fronted Russian-language symphonic power metal band; highly recommended to fans of the language and style) - CLINT
Andem - Daughter of moonlight 4.5/5 Andem Review - CLINT
Andem - Pendulum of life 4.5/5 Andem Review - CLINT
Andralls - Breakneck (hopefully coming soon)
Andralls - s/t (hopefully coming soon)
Andralls - Inner trauma (hopefully coming soon)
Andralls - Force against mind 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Andralls - Massacre, corruption, destruction 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Andrea, Jose - Donde el corazon te lleve 3/5 (solo project debut from the Mago de Oz vocalist) - MICHAEL
Anemonia - Moonlit numina 3.5/5 (fairly speedy epic/symphonic gothic metal debut with strong soprano operatic vocals) - CHRIS
Angband - Saved from the truth (hopefully coming soon)
Angband - Visions of the seeker (hopefully coming soon)
Angband - Rising from Apadama 2.5/5 (Iranian band's debut CD in the vein of Iced Earth and Control Denied; not very competitive though) - KIT
Angel Dust - Of human bondage 3.5/5 (great CD from a band that may be the first to have me thinking of Megadeth at times) - CLINT
Angel Dust - Of human bondage 3.5/5 Angel Dust Review - CRAIG
Angel Dust - Enlighten the darkness 4/5 - CLINT
Angel Dust - Bleed 4/5 - CLINT
Angel Dust - Border of reality 3/5 - CLINT
Angel Dust - To dust you will decay 3/5 - CLINT
Angel Dust - Into the dark past 3/5 - CLINT
Angel of Eden (Roger Staffelbach's) - The end of never 3.5/5 (strong neo-classical power metal debut with lots of speed; for fans of Iron Mask, Steel Seal and Magic Kingdom) - CLINT
Angel Witch - As above, so below 3/5 (not a spectacular return, but this influential NWOBHM act set a precedent evidenced by Christian Mistress’s ‘Possession’) - MICHAEL
Angel Witch - Frontal assault 3/5 - MICHAEL
Angel Witch - Screamin' and bleedin' 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Angel Witch - s/t 4/5 - MICHAEL
Angeldark - Angelique 4/5 Angeldark Review - CLINT
Angelical Tears - The eleventh hour 3.5/5 (female fronted symphonic/gothic/power metal debut like Leaves’ Eyes and early Delight, but with Evanescence influences) - CLINT
Angelida - La liga onirica 4/5 Angelida Review - CLINT
Angelida - La ciudad de los pajaros 3.5/5 - CLINT
Angelida - Decanimae 3.5/5 - CLINT
Angels Grace - New era rising 3/5 (fine debut mostly in the progressive metal genre, but contains influences from some of Angra's earlier material) - CLINT
Angels of Babylon - Kingdom of evil 3/5 (competent mid-paced U.S. melodic metal debut like Martin-era Sabbath; a bit low in excitement) - KIT
Angelus Apatrida - The call 3.5/5 (just like clockwork, they deliver another crushing and punishing release, so heed the call; their 4th CD) - MICHAEL
Angelus Apatrida - Clockwork 3.5/5 (great Brazilian thrash that channels Testament, Megadeth, Sepultura and Overdose with such aplomb; their 3rd CD) - MICHAEL
Angelus Apatrida - Give 'em war 3/5 (Exodus-inspired thrash from Spain with some Violator and Sepultura influences; their 2nd CD) - MICHAEL
Angelus Apatrida - Evil unleashed 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anger as Art - Hubris Inc. 3.5/5 (Steve Gaines gathers his Abattoir clan and even Betsy Bitch to bring back that combat thrash aesthetic; their 4th CD) - MICHAEL
Anger as Art - Disfigure (hopefully coming soon)
Anger as Art - Callous and furor (hopefully coming soon)
Anger as Art - s/t (hopefully coming soon)
Angkor Wat - Corpus Christi 3/5 - MICHAEL
Angkor Wat - When obscenity becomes the norm… awake! 3/5 - MICHAEL
Angra - Aqua 3.5/5 (popular Brazilian progressive power metal band returns with a very good CD, but it's one of their least memorable and surely not their best) - CLINT
Angra - Aurora consurgens 4/5 (6th CD with newfound heaviness that has really pulled me in, but their previous 2 CDs are more memorable and overall a bit better) - CLINT
Angra - Temple of shadows 4.5/5 (brilliant 5th CD that blends their previous CD 'Rebirth' with the band DGM) - CLINT
Angra - Temple of shadows 4/5 Angra Review - JOHN
Angra - Rebirth 4.5/5 (excellent 4th CD that's a nice come back with the excitement factor) - CLINT
Angra - Rebirth 4.5/5 Angra Review - CRAIG
Angra - Fireworks 3/5 - CLINT
Angra - Holy land 3.5/5 - CLINT
Angra - Angels cry 4/5 - CLINT
Angtoria - God has a plan for us all 4.5/5 (glorious female fronted symphonic metal debut with sensational vocals, and it's quite similar to Leaves' Eyes) - CLINT
Anguish - Symmetry 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anguish - Lost days of infancy 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anguish Force - Atzwang (hopefully coming soon)
Anguish Force - Created 4 self-destruction (hopefully coming soon)
Anguish Force - Invincible Imperium Italicum 3.5/5 Anguish Force Review - CREAG
Anguish Force - City of ice 3/5 - KIT
Anguish Force - s/t 3.5/5 (high-octane, unpolished Italian power metal debut with killer riffage and memorable songs) - KIT
Ani Lo. Projekt - Miracle 3.5/5 (worthwhile female fronted symphonic metal debut with terrific vocals, quality songwriting, and some moments of power metal) - CLINT
Anihilated - Ideviant 4.5/5 (awesome 4th CD that even surpasses their comeback 'Scorched earth policy'; fast, driving, political, and powerful) - MICHAEL
Anihilated - Scorched earth policy 4/5 (professional thrash by middle-age geezers who know how to satisfy and create hate for life's atrocities; their 3rd CD) - MICHAEL
Anihilated - The ultimate desecration 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Anihilated - Created by hate 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Animal - Virus 4/5 Animal Review - KIT
Animal - Violent new breed (hopefully coming soon)
Animal - 900 lb. Steam (hopefully coming soon)
Animetal USA - s/t 4/5 (all-star line-up pays tribute to Japanese act, with rippin' samples of Accept and Iron Maiden; think Sly and Galneryus) - MICHAEL
Ankhara - Sombras del pasado (hopefully coming soon)
Ankhara - ll 3.5/5 (huge step forward for Spanish power metal hopefuls) - KIT
Ankhara - Dueno del tiempo 2/5 - KIT
Annihilationmancer - The involution philosophy 3.5/5 (experimental Italian technical thrash debut a la Nuclear Simphony, Believer, Pestilence and Anacrusis) - MICHAEL
Annihilator - s/t 3/5 (frustrating CD that kicks off with 3 killer thrash songs, ends with a fun Van Halen cover, and has lots of "meh" in between) - KIT
Annihilator - Metal 1/5 Annihilator Review - CREAG
Annihilator - Metal 3.5/5 (maligned CD from Canadian thrash veterans that's much better than popular opinion suggests) - KIT
Annihilator - Schizo deluxe 2.5/5 Annihilator Review - JOHN
Annihilator - Schizo deluxe 3/5 (good albeit underachieving effort of Canadian thrash; Waters writes some rippin' tunes, but vocals have an annoying emo tendency) - KIT
Annihilator - All for you 2/5 - KIT
Annihilator - Waking the fury 3/5 - KIT
Annihilator - Carnival diablos 4/5 - KIT
Annihilator - Criteria for a black widow 3.5/5 - KIT
Annihilator - Remains 1.5/5 - KIT
Annihilator - Refresh the demon 2/5 - KIT
Annihilator - King of the kill 3/5 - KIT
Annihilator - Set the world on fire 3.5/5 - KIT
Annihilator - Never, neverland 4/5 - KIT
Annihilator - Alice in hell 4.5/5 - KIT
Another Destiny Project - Tell me what you see 3/5 (debut that’s not bad for a bunch of youthful Italians imitating Labyrinth, Vision Divine and their ilk) - MICHAEL
Anoxia - A lapdance for the Devil 4/5 (2nd CD that's a quality mix of traditional and thrash metal from Denmark, with good clean vocals and a modern edge) - KIT
Anoxia - Melanchollision (hopefully coming soon)
Ansoticca - Rise 3/5 (good female fronted symphonic/gothic metal debut best suited for those who are into Delain, Asrai, Within Temptation, Xandria and HB) - CLINT
Antalgia - Perception of reality 4.5/5 Antalgia Review - CLINT
Antarktida - The edge 2.5/5 (Russian-language heavy/progressive/power metal debut with a variety of both male and female vocals; okay, but nothing amazing) - CLINT
Anthem - Burning oath (hopefully coming soon)
Anthem - Heraldic device 3/5 (like Loudness and their countrymen, this longstanding Japanese act continue to deliver quality CDs) - MICHAEL
Anthem - Black empire 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - Immortal 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - Eternal warrior 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - Overload 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - Seven hills 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - Heavy metal anthem 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - Domestic booty 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - No smoke without fire 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - Hunting time 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - Gypsy ways 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - Bound to break 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - Tightrope 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anthem - s/t 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Anthenora - The ghosts of Iwo Jima 3.5/5 (strong hard-edged Italian traditional metal from the Sabaton school of lyricism; their 3rd CD) - KIT
Anthenora - Soulgrinder 3/5 (2nd CD sees these Italians moving away from Maiden worship and exploring crunchier, thrashier realms) - KIT
Anthenora - The last command 3/5 - KIT
Anthrax - Worship music 3.5/5 (long-overdue but great CD from this well-known thrash/heavy metal band; vocalist Joey Belladonna is back with the band) - CLINT
Anthrax - We've come for you all 2/5 - CLINT
Anthrax - Volume 8 2.5/5 - CLINT
Anthrax - Stomp 442 1.5/5 - CLINT
Anthrax - Sound of white noise 4.5/5 - CLINT
Anthrax - Persistence of time 4/5 - CLINT
Anthrax - State of euphoria 4/5 - CLINT
Anthrax - Among the living 4/5 - CLINT
Anthrax - Spreading the disease 3.5/5 - CLINT
Anthrax - Fistful of metal 2.5/5 - CLINT
Anthriel - The pathway 4/5 (fantastic progressive power metal debut like Symphony X, but also Pagan's Mind, Seventh Wonder, Aspera, Illusion Suite and Pathosray) - CLINT
Antichrist - Forbidden world 3.5/5 (debut of rippin' Swedish metal anarchy for fans of Kublai Khan, Bewitched, Tyranex, Solitaire, Hirax and Axecuter) - MICHAEL
Antiquus - In the land of the blind (hopefully coming soon)
Antiquus - Eleutheria 3.5/5 (2nd CD that's a quirky conceptual sci-fi epic from Canada; imagine Jag Panzer but with looser playing and more jams) - KIT
Antiquus - Ramayana 3/5 - MICHAEL
Antonini, Eddy - When water became ice 3.5/5 Antonini, Eddy Review - DAVID
Anubis Gate - s/t 3.5/5 (great 5th CD from this melodic/progressive/power metal band; has a number of excellent songs, but also has some filler in the middle) - CLINT
Anubis Gate - The detached 3.5/5 (progressive/power metal band's 4th CD that's very well done in all areas, but it doesn't quite reach the "excellent" level for me) - CLINT
Anubis Gate - Andromeda unchained 3.5/5 (3rd CD of melodic progressive/power metal that features a new vocalist; should appeal to fans of Pagan's Mind) - CLINT
Anubis Gate - A perfect forever 4/5 (fantastic 2nd CD that's more upbeat/exciting than the debut and is probably heavier as well) - CLINT
Anubis Gate - Purification 3.5/5 (nice debut that reminds me of the Pagan's Mind debut 'Infinity divine') - CLINT
Anvil - Hope in hell 3.5/5 (their first CD with Cities’ bassist, and it’s still kickin' ass and more like 90s-era style than 'This is thirteen' or 'Juggernaut of justice') - MICHAEL
Anvil - Juggernaut of justice 4/5 (heavy metal band’s excellent comeback CD with jazzy and Cajun vibes, showcasing what these Canadians can do) - MICHAEL
Anvil - This is thirteen 3/5 (being a triad means less metal on mettle; songs are still hard/heavy, and 13 is not unlucky given recent Sundance fame) - MICHAEL
Anvil - Back to basics 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil - Still going strong 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil - Plenty of power 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil - Speed of sound 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil - Absolutely no alternative 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil - Plugged in permanent 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil - Worth the weight 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil - Pound for pound 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil - Strength of steel 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil - Forged in fire 4/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil - Metal on metal 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil - Hard 'n' heavy 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil Bitch - Rise to offend 3/5 - MICHAEL
Anvil Chorus - The killing sun 4/5 Anvil Chorus Review - CRAIG
Aperion - Act of hybris 4/5 Aperion Review - CHRIS
Apocalypse - Faithless (hopefully coming soon)
Apocalypse - s/t 3.5/5 - KIT
Apocalypsis - One outcome is possible 3/5 (though nothing amazing, this is a solid Russian-language heavy/power metal debut for die-hard fans of the language/style) - CLINT
Apocrypha - Area 54 3.5/5 (3rd CD of thrash metal with catchy songs and great lead guitar work) - JOHN
Apocrypha - The eyes of time 3.5/5 (2nd CD of riffy, neo-classical power metal with high-pitched vocals) - JOHN
Apocrypha - The forgotten scroll 4.5/5 (epic, neo-classical power metal debut with gruff melodic vocals; classic stuff!) - JOHN
Apollo Ra - Ra pariah 2.5/5 - KIT
Appearance of Nothing - All gods are gone 3.5/5 (very good 2nd CD of progressive power metal from Switzerland, but the debut is more memorable) - CLINT
Appearance of Nothing - Wasted time 4/5 (terrific progressive power metal debut with similarities to Kamelot, Seventh Wonder, Vanishing Point and Tomorrow's Eve) - CLINT
Aquaria - Shambala 4/5 Aquaria Review - JOHN
Aquaria - Luxaeterna 3.5/5 Aquaria Review - JOHN
Aquarius (The) - Time to reach 3.5/5 (2nd CD of Russian-language symphonic power metal; an improvement over the debut regarding the songwriting, and it’s quite catchy) - CLINT
Aquarius (The) - Dawn era 3/5 (Russian-language symphonic power metal debut; nothing amazing, but die-hard fans of the style/language should like it) - CLINT
Arachnes - A new day 3/5 (6th CD of Italian progressive power metal; not their best, but it’s better than the previous ‘In praise of science’ and fans of the band should dig it) - CLINT
Arachnes - In praise of science 2.5/5 (5th CD of Italian progressive power metal that's not as memorable or enjoyable as their previous CDs) - CLINT
Arachnes - Primary fear 3.5/5 (4th CD that continues with their cool style of keyboard work) - CLINT
Arachnes - Apocalypse 3.5/5 - CLINT
Arachnes - Parallel worlds 3/5 - CLINT
Arachnes - The goddess temple 1.5/5 - CLINT
Aragon - Eternal quest 2.5/5 (decent traditional power metal debut with a few highlights) - CLINT
Aragorn - The night is burning 3/5 - MICHAEL
Arakain - Homo sapiens? (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Restart 3/5 (decent thrash comeback with slight modern elements from these eternal Czech Republic legends who have been around since 1982) - MICHAEL
Arakain - Labyrint (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Warning! (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Metalmorfoza (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Archeology (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Forest Gump (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Farao (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Apage satanas (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - S.O.S. (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Legendy (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Thrash (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Salto mortale (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Black jack (hopefully coming soon)
Arakain - Schizofrenie 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Arakain - Thrash the trash 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Arbitrater - Darkened reality (hopefully coming soon)
Arbitrater - Balance of power 3/5 - MICHAEL
Arbitrator - Peace by force (hopefully coming soon)
Arbitrator - Children of apocalypse (hopefully coming soon)
Arbitrator - Voice of the dead 3/5 (effective Russian thrash metal following the Sodom/Destruction/Kreator blueprint; their 2nd CD) - KIT
Arbitrator - Kill their religion (hopefully coming soon)
Arcadia - Flight to the rainbow 3.5/5 (another exciting Japanese power metal CD for fans of the style; their 2nd CD, and it's a bit better than the debut) - CLINT
Arcadia - Tales of Fantasia 3/5 - CLINT
Arcana XXII - Your fatal embrace (hopefully coming soon)
Arcana XXII - This burning darkness 2.5/5 (2nd CD of quirky traditional/doom from Namibia like 'Icon'-era Paradise Lost; vocals sometimes annoy) - KIT
Arcana XXII - Fallen from grace (hopefully coming soon)
Arcane - Destination unknown 3/5 - MICHAEL
Arch Enemy - Khaos legions 3.5/5 (these hard at work Swedes of carnage up the ante with more melody, and even more discernible female vocals) - MICHAEL
Arch Enemy - Rise of the tyrant 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Arch Enemy - Doomsday machine 3/5 - MICHAEL
Arch Enemy - Anthems of rebellion 4/5 - MICHAEL
Arch Enemy - Wages of sin 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Arch Enemy - Burning bridges 4/5 - MICHAEL
Arch Enemy - Stigmata 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Arch Enemy - Black earth 3/5 - MICHAEL
Arch/Matheos - Sympathetic resonance 5/5 Arch/Matheos Review - CRAIG
Arch Nemesis - Of mind and fantasy 3/5 (worthwhile 2nd CD of dark progressive power metal from Norway; like a more eclectic, versatile Evergrey) - KIT
Arch Nemesis - Shadows in the mirror 2.5/5 - CLINT
Arch of Hell - One day 4/5 Arch of Hell Review - CHRIS
Archaic Revival - Pagan evolution 3.5/5 (dark gothic/heavy metal debut with a symphonic presence and a lovely female vocalist that fits the music perfectly; great stuff) - CLINT
Archetype - Dawning 4/5 Archetype Review - CRAIG
Archontes - Book one: The child of two worlds 2/5 Archontes Review - CLINT
Archontes - The world where shadows come to life 1.5/5 - CLINT
Archontes - Saga of eternity 1/5 - CLINT
Archtype - The one 2/5 (obscure Brazilian power metal debut; good playing is let down by below average songwriting and production) - CREAG
Arctic Flame - Shake the earth 3.5/5 Arctic Flame Review - MICHAEL
Arctic Flame - Guardian at the gate (hopefully coming soon)
Arctic Flame - Declaration 3.5/5 Arctic Flame Review - CRAIG
Arctic Flame - Primeval aggressor 3.5/5 Arctic Flame Review - CRAIG
Arda - The sea of disappearing 3/5 (Russian-language power metal band improves with this 2nd CD, but they're not up there with Epidemia yet) - CLINT
Arda - About eternal wondering and about the earth 2.5/5 (Russian-language power metal debut that reminds me of Dreamtale in a few spots) - CLINT
Area51 - Goddess 3.5/5 (nicely done 3rd CD of Japanese-language female fronted power metal and it's their best to date) - CLINT
Area51 - Daemonicus 3.5/5 Area51 Review - CLINT
Area51 - Ankh 3/5 - CLINT
Ares - Not playing this game 3.5/5 (well done 2nd CD from this French heavy metal band; a small step above the debut and should please fans of the genre) - CLINT
Ares - About metal 3/5 (heavy metal debut from France that's in the style of Iron Maiden and the many other similar bands; good though far from amazing) - CLINT
Arghon - Equilibrium 3/5 Arghon Review - CLINT
Argir - Privy councillor of satrap (hopefully coming soon)
Argir - Light of silver 3.5/5 (very cool Russian-language traditional/classic heavy metal debut that's like a lightweight Aria) - CLINT
Argument Soul - Conflict of crisis (hopefully coming soon)
Argument Soul - Reviving the truth 2.5/5 (mostly good Japanese power metal debut with some stylistic inconsistency and a subpar vocalist) - KIT
Argus - Beyond the martyrs 4.5/5 Argus Review - KIT
Argus - Boldly stride the doomed 4.5/5 (2nd CD of soul-stirring doomy traditional metal that boldly strides ahead of the debut; one of the best CDs of 2011) - KIT
Argus - s/t 3.5/5 Argus Review - KIT
Aria - Phoenix 4/5 (Russian traditional metal titans rise from the ashes with a new singer and another killer CD to burnish their legacy) - KIT
Aria - Armageddon 4/5 Aria Review - KIT
Aria - Christening by fire 3.5/5 - KIT
Aria - Chimera 4/5 - KIT
Aria - Generator of evil 3/5 - KIT
Aria - Night is shorter than day 4.5/5 - KIT
Aria - Blood for blood 4.5/5 - KIT
Aria - Play with fire 4.5/5 - KIT
Aria - Hero of asphalt 4/5 - KIT
Aria - Whom are you with? 4/5 - KIT
Aria - Megalomania 4.5/5 - KIT
Ariadna Project - Parallel worlds 4.5/5 Ariadna Project Review - CLINT
Arida Vortex - Invisible tension 3/5 (3rd CD from this Russian power metal band; unlike previous CDs, there are some light progressive/rock songs that hurt the flow) - CLINT
Arida Vortex - Flames of sunset 3.5/5 (2nd CD of Russian power metal with catchy guitar work; in the style of Celesty, Axenstar, Conquest and Guardians of Time) - CLINT
Arida Vortex - Evil sorcery 3.5/5 (outstanding Russian power metal debut with some really nice guitar solos) - CLINT
Arie di Mortte - Rinascere 1.5/5 (Spanish-language gothic/symphonic metal debut with good female operatic vocals, but the music is only okay and it’s hurt by an awful production) - CLINT
Ark Storm - The everlasting wheel 4/5 (excellent 3rd CD of Japanese neo-classical power metal a la Concerto Moon, Double Dealer and Black Masquerade) - CLINT
Ark Storm - Beginning of the new legend 3.5/5 - CLINT
Ark Storm - No boundaries 2.5/5 - CLINT
Arkayic Revolt - Death's river 3.5/5 (pleasantly surprising rethrash debut from Canada; vocally and song-wise, a cut above many peers) - KIT
Arkham Witch - Legions of the deep 3.5/5 (intriguing British stew of quirky leaden doom meets NWOBHM vibes and even the occasional near-thrash foray; their 2nd CD) - KIT
Arkham Witch - On crom’s mountain (hopefully coming soon)
Arkona - Slovo 4.5/5 (epic, majestic, blackened folksy power metal with thrashy touches, black and female vocals, and a full symphony and choir; their 6th CD) - CHRIS
Arkona - Goi, rode, goi! 3.5/5 (5th CD; majestic semi-technical folk black metal with black and female vocals, and a full symphony and choir) - CHRIS
Arkona - Ot serdtsa k nebu 4/5 (4th CD; majestic folk black metal with power metal touches, black and female vocals, and choir) - CHRIS
Arkona - Vo slavu velikim! 4.5/5 (3rd CD; majestic key-driven festive folksy blackened power metal with black and female vocals) - CHRIS
Arkona - Lepta 3.5/5 (2nd CD; majestic key-driven festive lightly folksy blackened power metal with black and female vocals) - CHRIS
Arkona - Vozrozhdenie 3/5 (debut of majestic key-driven slightly technical lightly folksy black metal with black and female vocals) - CHRIS
Arktida - Through the centuries 4/5 (excellent 2nd CD of Russian-language power metal a la Epidemia, Retriem, Kolizey, Charizma, Arda, Callisto and Decuman Wave) - CLINT
Arktida - On the horizon 4/5 (fantastic Russian-language power metal debut with symphonic highlights; for fans of Epidemia, Arda, Retriem and Charizma) - CLINT
Armada (The) - Rage of the armada 2/5 (okay LMP progressive power metal debut lacking in the pizzazz department) - KIT
Armageddon (Hun) - Valaszra varva 3.5/5 (well done Hungarian traditional metal debut with enough cool galloping melodies to offset the moderate production) - KIT
Armageddon (Swe) - Three 3/5 (3rd CD from Arch Enemy's Chris Amott's power metal band; lighter catchier offering) - JOHN
Armageddon (Swe) - Embrace the mystery 2.5/5 - JOHN
Armageddon (Swe) - Crossing the rubicon 3/5 - JOHN
Armagedon - El imperio del mal (hopefully coming soon)
Armagedon - Ecologia 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Armed Forces - No guts... no glory!!! 3/5 - KIT
Armed Forces - s/t (hopefully coming soon)
Armed Forces - Take on the nation 3/5 - MICHAEL
Armonight - Tales from the heart 3.5/5 Armonight Review - CLINT
Armonight - Suffering and passion 3.5/5 - CLINT
Armor Column - Maximum collateral damage 4/5 Armor Column Review - MICHAEL
Armored Saint - La raza 3/5 (long-overdue but solid CD from this well-known heavy metal band; most of the songs are good and it's nice to hear John Bush's vocals again) - CLINT
Armored Saint - Revelation 3.5/5 - CLINT
Armored Saint - Symbol of salvation 5/5 - CLINT
Armored Saint - Raising fear 3/5 - CLINT
Armored Saint - Delirious nomad 3.5/5 - CLINT
Armored Saint - March of the saint 3/5 - CLINT
Armory - Empyrean realms 4.5/5 Armory Review - CLINT
Armory - The dawn of enlightenment 5/5 Armory Review - CLINT
Armour - s/t 3.5/5 (near excellent rockin' speed metal debut for fans of 80s-era W.A.S.P., or Ruthless, Pegazus and Culprit) - MICHAEL
Arnion - Fall like rain 1.5/5 Arnion Review - CREAG
Arrayan Path - Ira imperium 3.5/5 Arrayan Path Review - CREAG
Arrow (The) - Lady nite 4/5 (3rd CD of impressive Russian melodic power metal with English lyrics; guest appearances include Hansi Kursch and Peavy Wagner) - KIT
Arrow (The) - Keeper of souls 4/5 (2nd CD of top-quality Russian-language melodic power metal; buy or die for fans of the genre) - KIT
Arrow (The) - Children of gods 3/5 - KIT
Arryan Path - Terra incognita 3.5/5 Arryan Path Review - CREAG
Arryan Path - Road to Macedonia 2.5/5 Arryan Path Review - CREAG
Ars Amandi - El rincon de los deseos (hopefully coming soon)
Ars Amandi - Desterrado entre suenos (hopefully coming soon)
Ars Amandi - Camino al destino (hopefully coming soon)
Ars Amandi - En tierra firme (hopefully coming soon)
Ars Amandi - Autoctono 4/5 - KIT
Arsenite - Ashes of the declined 3.5/5 (great Swedish thrash debut similar to Guillotine, Savage Messiah, and the faster songs by Anvil) - MICHAEL
Artch - For the sake of mankind 4/5 (classic power metal with tremendous vocals; their 2nd CD) - JOHN
Artch - Another return to church hill 3/5 - JOHN
Arteria - Searching for new life 3/5 (uneven Russian metal featuring ex-Aria guitarist and a killer Aria cover tune; their 2nd CD) - KIT
Arteria - Fly to the light (hopefully coming soon)
Arthemis - We fight 3/5 (Italian band’s 7th CD, and it’s mid-paced/modern heavy metal like the previous ‘Heroes’; has some good songs, but this style doesn’t do much for me) - CLINT
Arthemis - Heroes 3.5/5 (6th CD from this long-running Italian band; quite different than their early stuff, containing a modern edge and little speed, but it's catchy) - CLINT
Arthemis - Black society 3/5 (Italian power metal band returns with their 5th CD, but with hard rock influences this time; good, though it's their most diverse CD to date) - CLINT
Arthemis - Back from the heat 3/5 (though good, this Italian power metal band's 4th CD doesn't improve over their previous CDs and fails to take them to the next level) - CLINT
Arthemis - Golden dawn 3/5 (3rd CD of exciting Italian power metal that contains very short songs throughout) - CLINT
Arthemis - The damned ship 3/5 - CLINT
Arthemis - Church of the holy ghost 1.5/5 - CLINT
Artillery - My blood 4/5 Artillery Review - CRAIG
Artillery - When death comes 4/5 (5th CD that's a superb refinement on the classic melodic thrash of 'By inheritance') - CRAIG
Artillery - B.A.C.K. (hopefully coming soon)
Artillery - By inheritance 4/5 - CRAIG
Artillery - Terror squad 3/5 - CRAIG
Artillery - Fear of tomorrow 3/5 - CRAIG
Artizan - Ancestral energy 4/5 (2nd CD of highly polished, squeaky clean, thoughtful melodic heavy metal, with a Matt Barlow guest appearance) - KIT
Artizan - Curse of the Artizan 3.5/5 (quality melodic/heavy metal debut from Florida a la mid-period Fates Warning, Circle II Circle and perhaps Leatherwolf) - KIT
Artlantica - Across the seven seas 3.5/5 (great neo-classical power metal debut with an all-star line-up, including popular vocalist John West and members of Angel of Eden) - CLINT
Arven - Black is the colour 3.5/5 (2nd CD of heavy, crunchy, festive power metal with frequent folksy touches and unusually beautiful and expressive soprano female vocals) - CHRIS
Arven - Music of light 3.5/5 Arven Review - CHRIS
Arwen - Illusions 3/5 (improved 2nd CD with all the ingredients, but not quite up there with bands like Angra) - CLINT
Arwen - Memories of a dream 2/5 - CLINT
Arya - The vision 4/5 Arya Review - CLINT
Ascension - Far beyond the stars 3.5/5 Ascension Review - CREAG
Asgard (Ger) - Dark horizons 3/5 (reissued German traditional metal debut from 1988; akin to early Running Wild, Gravestone and Iron Angel) - KIT
Asgard (Ita) - The seal of madness 4/5 (debut of exhilarating Italian melodic speed metal magic with high-pitched vocals) - KIT
Asgard (Rus) - House of ashes 3.5/5 Asgard Review - CLINT
Asgard (Rus) - On the verge 3.5/5 - CLINT
Asgard (Rus) - Sacrament of confession (hopefully coming soon)
Ash Inheritance - Devastated by fire 3.5/5 (razor-sharp energetic thrash debut from Germany bowing at the altars of Kreator, Sodom and Metallica) - KIT
Ashen Reign - An angels burden 4/5 Ashen Reign Review - SEAN
Ashen Reign - Immortality 3/5 (melodic power metal debut by a one-man band; breathes raw emotion, but the sound quality is not quite there) - SEAN
Ashent - Inheritance 2.5/5 (okay 3rd CD of progressive metal with occasional speed, but it’s lighter than their first 2 CDs and fails at greatly grabbing my attention) - CLINT
Ashent - Deconstructive 3.5/5 (2nd CD of progressive metal with some moments of power metal; quite good, and it continues where the debut left off) - CLINT
Ashent - Flaws of elation 3.5/5 Ashent Review - CLINT
Ashes of Ares - s/t 3.5/5 Ashes of Ares Review - MICHAEL
ASKA - Fire eater 4.5/5 ASKA Review - CRAIG
ASKA - Absolute power 4.5/5 (mandatory U.S. traditional/true metal with some amazing songs) - KIT
ASKA - Absolute power 4.5/5 ASKA Review - CRAIG
ASKA - Avenger 4/5 - KIT
ASKA - Nine tongues 2.5/5 - KIT
ASKA - Immortal 2.5/5 - KIT
ASKA - s/t (hopefully coming soon)
Asomvel - Kamikaze 3.5/5 (grimly British power trio dish out bruising rockers with this debut; for fans of Motorhead, Venom, Tank, et al) - CREAG
Aspera - Ripples 4/5 (outstanding melodic/progressive/power metal debut for fans of Seventh Wonder, Circus Maximus and Pathosray; has changed to Above Symmetry) - CLINT
Asperity - The final demand 4/5 (fantastic debut that has some Tad Morose-like catchiness and choruses) - CLINT
Aspire - In defiance of fortune 2.5/5 (decent 3rd CD of symphonic power metal, but I don't think it's as catchy or as memorable as their previous 'The age of reckoning') - CLINT
Aspire - In defiance of fortune 2.5/5 Aspire Review - TOM
Aspire - The age of reckoning 3.5/5 (catchy 2nd CD of epic/symphonic power metal that's an improvement over the debut) - CLINT
Aspire - Quest eternal 3/5 (very good symphonic power metal debut that wins with the songwriting aspect, but the drums are a bit overbearing at times) - CLINT
Asrai - Pearls in dirt 3/5 (female fronted gothic rock/metal band is back with their 3rd CD; has some great songs, but some average songs as well) - CLINT
Asrai - Touch in the dark 3/5 (good female fronted gothic metal similar to Within Temptation with a touch of Xandria) - CLINT
Asrai - As voices speak 1/5 - CLINT
Assailant - Wicked dream 3/5 (2nd CD that continues with the aggressive vocal style, but there are more progressive/keyboard elements this time) - CLINT
Assailant - Wicked dream 3/5 Assailant Review - SEAN
Assailant - Nemesis within 3/5 (debut with aggressive vocals; sounds like a blend of Persuader, Brainstorm, Savage Circus and heavier Nocturnal Rites) - CLINT
Assassin - Breaking the silence 3.5/5 (4th CD that's a solid blend of their first 2 CDs, with a rough 80s production; for fans of true German old-school thrash!) - MICHAEL
Assassin - The club 2/5 (a terribly hindered stale-art experience from the raging mob from Germany who have remained real friends; their 3rd CD) - MICHAEL
Assassin - Interstellar experience 4/5 - MICHAEL
Assassin - The upcoming terror 4/5 - MICHAEL
Assault - Survival in the street 4/5 - MICHAEL
Assaulter - Boundless! 3/5 (assimulated deathrash with memorable guitar work and a homage to Motorhead's 'Orgasmatron', or Protector and Morbid Carnage) - MICHAEL
Assaulter - Salvation like destruction (hopefully coming soon)
Assedium - Fighting for the flame 4/5 Assedium Review - CRAIG
Assedium - Rise of the warlords 4/5 Assedium Review - CRAIG
Assorted Heap - Mindwaves (hopefully coming soon)
Assorted Heap - The experience of horror 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Astaroth - The end of silence 3.5/5 (high quality Italian old-school traditional metal debut like classic Armored Saint, Leatherwolf, etc.) - KIT
Astharoth - Gloomy experiments 3/5 - MICHAEL
Astra - From within 3.5/5 (well done 2nd CD of Italian progressive power metal extremely similar to DGM in every way; much more exciting than the debut) - CLINT
Astra - About me: Through life and beyond 2.5/5 - CLINT
Astral Doors - Jerusalem 4/5 (been there, done that, but it doesn't matter when Dio-style heavy metal is this well executed; their 6th CD) - KIT
Astral Doors - Requiem of time 4/5 (long-running Swedish melodic metal act proves quality Dio-style music never goes out of style; their 5th CD) - KIT
Astral Doors - New revelation 4.5/5 Astral Doors Review - KIT
Astral Doors - Astralism 4/5 (fine melodic traditional metal from Sweden comparable to their other CDs and having many highlights) - KIT
Astral Doors - Evil is forever 4/5 (colossal 2nd CD of Rainbow meets Martin-era Sabbath with songs superior to the debut) - KIT
Astral Doors - Of the father and of the son 3.5/5 Astral Doors Review - KIT
Asylum Pyre - Fifty years later 3/5 (2nd CD from this diverse band with both female and clean male vocals, but it’s perhaps too diverse and the debut is more memorable) - CLINT
Asylum Pyre - Natural instinct? 4/5 Asylum Pyre Review - CLINT
Asynja - Through the misty air 3.5/5 Asynja Review - CLINT
At the Lake - Maya 4/5 At the Lake Review - CHRIS
At the Lake - s/t (EP) 3.5/5 (festive symphonic folk rock/metal with long instrumentals and beautiful soprano female vocals; technically an EP, but is 38 minutes) - CHRIS
At Vance - Facing your enemy 3/5 (another above average CD from this melodic/power metal band; while it doesn’t blow me away, there are some great songs) - CLINT
At Vance - Ride the sky 3/5 (8th CD from this German melodic/power metal band; another satisfying CD, but I wish they were more consistently at a high level) - CLINT
At Vance - VII 3/5 (long-running German melodic power metal band gives us another solid but predictable CD) - CLINT
At Vance - Chained 3/5 At Vance Review - DAVID
At Vance - The evil in you 3.5/5 (well done 5th CD of neo-classical German power metal) - DAVID
At Vance - Only human 4/5 At Vance Review - DAVID
At Vance - Dragonchaser 3.5/5 At Vance Review - DAVID
At Vance - Heart of steel 3/5 At Vance Review - DAVID
At Vance - No escape 2/5 - DAVID
At War - Infidel 3.5/5 (Virginia combat thrashers return ordered to kill, and kill again with more Motorhead rip chasin' hammer-crushing riffs; their 3rd CD) - MICHAEL
At War - Retaliatory strike 3/5 - MICHAEL
At War - Ordered to kill 3/5 - MICHAEL
Atargatis - Nova 3.5/5 (2nd CD that has more of a commercial edge than their debut, but it's still plenty heavy with a satisfying amount of speed) - CLINT
Atargatis - Nova 3/5 Atargatis Review - CREAG
Atargatis - Wasteland 4/5 (awesome female fronted debut with a good amount of speed; for fans of After Forever, Leaves' Eyes, Nightwish, Epica and so on) - CLINT
Athaxia - El fin de la inocencia 3/5 (competitive Spanish-language power metal debut from Puerto Rico with iffy vocals) - KIT
Atheist - Jupiter 4/5 (amazing comeback sure to satisfy any fan of the band, as well as Cynic, Pestilence, Believer or recent Metal Blade thrash acts) - MICHAEL
Atheist - Elements 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Atheist - Unquestionable presence 4/5 - MICHAEL
Atheist - Piece of time 3/5 - MICHAEL
Athena - Twilight of days 3/5 (3rd CD with a new vocalist of the high-pitched variety and a musical direction that's much more towards power metal) - CLINT
Athena - A new religion? 4/5 (excellent 2nd CD of Italian progressive power metal a la Labyrinth and Vision Divine; their only CD that features Fabio Lione on vocals) - CLINT
Athena - Inside the moon 2.5/5 - CLINT
Athlantis - M.W.M.D. (hopefully coming soon)
Athlantis - s/t 3/5 (solid debut from Italian metal supergroup featuring a triumvirate of fine vocalists, including Rob Tyrant and Wild Steel) - KIT
Athorn - Phobia 4/5 Athorn Review - SEAN
Atlain - G.O.E. 4/5 - KIT
Atlain - Living in the dark 4/5 - KIT
Atlantean Kodex - The golden bough 4.5/5 Atlantean Kodex Review - KIT
Atlas & Axis - March of the night 3.5/5 Atlas & Axis Review - CLINT
Atom God - History re-written 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Atom God - Wow (hopefully coming soon)
Atomic Tornado - Tornado eye 3/5 (Japanese-language power metal debut a la Concerto Moon, Prophesia, Black Masquerade, Azrael, Double Dealer and Seven Seas) - CLINT
Atomica - Hilfe! 2.5/5 (uneven female fronted gothic metal debut with some power metal parts; there are certainly highlights, but there are some average songs as well) - CLINT
Atomkraft - Future warriors 3/5 - MICHAEL
Atrocity - Okkult 3.5/5 (epic return to the more brutal earlier style, while still incorporating all classical and gothic elements for which they are known) - MICHAEL
Atrocity - After the storm 3/5 (always one to reinvent themselves, these gothic Germans return with a CD suited to World Music or Dead Can Dance fans) - MICHAEL
Atrocity - Werk 80 II 2.5/5 (more industrialized epicene 80s renditions with less passion and emotion than original) - MICHAEL
Atrocity - Atlantis 3/5 - MICHAEL
Atrocity - Gemini 3/5 - MICHAEL
Atrocity - Werk 80 4.5/5 - MICHAEL
Atrocity - Willenskraft 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Atrocity - Die liebe 3/5 - MICHAEL
Atrocity - Calling the rain 3/5 - MICHAEL
Atrocity - Blut 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Atrocity - Longing for death 3/5 - MICHAEL
Atrocity - Hallucinations 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Atrophy - Violent by nature 4/5 - MICHAEL
Atrophy - Socialized hate 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Attack - The secret place 4.5/5 - JOHN
Attack - Seven years in the past 4/5 - JOHN
Attack - Destinies of war 4.5/5 - JOHN
Attack - Return of the evil 3/5 - JOHN
Attack - Danger in the air 2.5/5 - JOHN
Attacker - Giants of Canaan 4.5/5 Attacker Review - KIT
Attacker - The unknown 4/5 Attacker Review - KIT
Attacker - Soul taker 3.5/5 - KIT
Attacker - The second coming 4/5 - KIT
Attacker - Battle at helm's deep 3.5/5 - KIT
Attackhead - Voices in the dark-Second attack 3/5 (re-released debut of Orange County thrash similar to Anger As Art, Abattoir, Bloodlust and Hirax) - MICHAEL
Attentat Rock - Strike 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Attentat Rock - Le gang des saigneurs 3/5 - MICHAEL
Attentat Rock - s/t 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Attic - The invocation 3/5 (debut that’s total early King Diamond worship, with falsetto vocals; for fans of Portrait, In Solitude, A Tortured Soul, etc.) - MICHAEL
Attica Rage - 88 MPH (hopefully coming soon)
Attica Rage - Road dog 3/5 (2nd CD that’s solid and heavy aggression with some promise; for fans of All Too Human, Crawl 2 Chaos, Faith or Fear, etc.) - MICHAEL
Attica Rage - Ruin nation 3/5 - MICHAEL
Attick Demons - Atlantis 3.5/5 (Portuguese power metal debut on Pure Steel Records; similar to Bruce Dickinson's solo CDs, Chronology and Machine Men) - MICHAEL
Attila - Rolling thunder 3/5 - MICHAEL
Audiovision - Focus 2/5 Audiovision Review - JOHN
Audiovision - The calling 3.5/5 Audiovision Review - JOHN
Aura Noir - Out to die 3/5 (Norwegian retro-thrashers return with a blasting old-school appeal for fans of Inferno, Nifelheim, Agressor, Midnight, etc.; their 5th CD) - MICHAEL
Aura Noir - Hades rise 3/5 - MICHAEL
Aura Noir - The merciless 3/5 - MICHAEL
Aura Noir - Deep tracts of hell 3/5 - MICHAEL
Aura Noir - Black thrash attack 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Auspex - Heliopause 3/5 (2nd CD from this French female fronted symphonic/progressive/power metal band; has a lot less speed than the debut, and is also more progressive) - CLINT
Auspex - Resolutio 4/5 Auspex Review - CLINT
Austrian Death Machine - Double brutal 3.5/5 (killer sophomore thrash frenzy with more homage to Guvnator of Candycornia, a la Sacred Reich) - MICHAEL
Austrian Death Machine - Total brutal 3.5/5 (humorous thrash debut; audible vocals, melodies and awesome Ahnold imitation/references) - MICHAEL
Aut Mori - First tears of autumn 4/5 (killer gothic/doom metal debut with “beauty and the beast” vocals; similar in every way to Draconian, except that it’s sung in Russian) - CLINT
Auto-De-Fe - Elements 3.5/5 (Russian-language atmospheric/gothic/doom metal debut with "beauty and the beast" vocals; similar to Amederia and Draconian) - CLINT
Autumn - Cold comfort 2.5/5 (5th CD from this female fronted band, but it has them moving from catchy gothic metal to rock with a progressive flair; disappointment) - CLINT
Autumn - Altitude 4/5 (smooth, memorable and thoroughly enjoyable 4th CD from this female fronted gothic metal band; features a talented new vocalist) - CLINT
Autumn - My new time 3/5 (female fronted band's 3rd CD, which is a bit lighter than their previous CDs and is more along the lines of standard gothic metal) - CLINT
Autumn - Summer's end 3.5/5 (great 2nd CD that continues where the debut left off, like a crunchier Dakrua or a slightly mellower Ebony Ark) - CLINT
Autumn - When lust evokes the curse 3/5 (female fronted debut reminding me of Dakrua and Ebony Ark, but is less upbeat and more symphonic) - CLINT
Auvernia - Afraid of me (hopefully coming soon)
Auvernia - Towards eternity 4/5 Auvernia Review - CLINT
Ava Inferi - Onyx 4/5 Ava Inferi Review - CHRIS
Ava Inferi - Blood of Bacchus 2/5 (3rd CD of heavy atmospheric but often quite plodding gothic doom metal with superb but somewhat cold female vocals) - CHRIS
Ava Inferi - The silhouette 2/5 (2nd CD of heavy atmospheric but often quite plodding gothic doom metal with superb but somewhat cold female vocals) - CHRIS
Ava Inferi - Burdens 2/5 (debut of heavy atmospheric but often quite plodding gothic doom metal with superb but somewhat cold female vocals) - CHRIS
Avalanch - Malefic time apocalypse (hopefully coming soon)
Avalanch - El ladron de suenos (hopefully coming soon)
Avalanch - Muerte y vida (hopefully coming soon)
Avalanch - El hijo prodigo (hopefully coming soon)
Avalanch - Mother earth (hopefully coming soon)
Avalanch - Los puetoas han muerto 1/5 (disappointing wimpy outing from abdicated Spanish metal kings; their 5th CD) - KIT
Avalanch - El angel caido 4/5 - KIT
Avalanch - Llanto de un heroe 5/5 - KIT
Avalanch - La llama eterna 3.5/5 - KIT
Avalanch - Ready for the glory 2.5/5 - KIT
Avalanche - To be free 2/5 - JOHN
Avalanche - Here comes the king 2.5/5 - JOHN
Avalon - Eurasia (hopefully coming soon)
Avalon - Vision eden 2.5/5 - CRAIG
Avalon - Mystic places 2.5/5 - CRAIG
Avalon - Why now? 2.5 - CRAIG
Avalon (Timo Tolkki’s) - The land of new hope 3.5/5 (ex-Stratovarius guitarist has created an Avantasia-styled debut with guest vocalists; a wonderful symphonic power metal CD) - SEAN
Avantasia - The mystery of time 3.5/5 Avantasia Review - CREAG
Avantasia - The wicked symphony 3.5/5 Avantasia Review - CREAG
Avantasia - Angel of Babylon 3/5 Avantasia Review - CREAG
Avantasia - The scarecrow 3.5/5 Avantasia Review - CREAG
Avantasia - Lost in space pt. 2 (EP) 3.5/5 Avantasia Review - CREAG
Avantasia - Lost in space pt. 1 (EP) 3/5 Avantasia Review - CREAG
Avantasia - The metal opera pt. ll 4/5 Avantasia Review - DAVID
Avantasia - The metal opera pt. l 4.5/5 Avantasia Review - DAVID
Avariel - The dawn 3.5/5 Avariel Review - CHRIS
Avenger (Ger) - Prayers of steel 4/5 - MICHAEL
Avenger (U.K.) - Killer elite 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Avenger (U.K.) - Blood sports 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Avenger of Blood - Death brigade 2.5/5 (Kreator clones return with their 2nd CD, but with uninspired riffage) - MICHAEL
Avenger of Blood - Complete annihilation 3/5 Avenger of Blood Review - MICHAEL
Aversion - Fall from grace 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Aversion - Fit to be tied 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Aversion - The ugly truth 3/5 - MICHAEL
Avian - Ashes and madness 3.5/5 Avian Review - CLINT
Avian - From the depths of time 3/5 Avian Review - CLINT
Awake - Forever more 3/5 (2nd CD from this progressive power metal band that has a big Evergrey influence; nothing amazing, but it’s certainly solid) - CLINT
Awake - Illumination 3/5 (progressive power metal extremely similar to Evergrey both vocally and musically, but with less speed; band was formerly known as Humanity) - CLINT
Awaken Solace - In nightfall’s embrace 4/5 Awaken Solace Review - CLINT
Axe Witch - Hooked on high heels 3/5 - MICHAEL
Axe Witch - The lord of flies 3/5 - MICHAEL
Axe Witch - Visions of the past 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Axecuter - Metal is invincible 3/5 (Brazilian old-school heavy metal debut that’s an Inferno Records release; similar to Mpire of Evil, Ostrogoth, Tank and Holocaust) - MICHAEL
Axehammer - Marching on (hopefully coming soon)
Axehammer - Windrider 4/5 Axehammer Review - KIT
Axehammer - Lord of the realm 4/5 - KIT
Axemaster - Death before dishonor 3/5 - MICHAEL
Axemaster - Blessing in the skies 3/5 - MICHAEL
Axenstar - Aftermath 4/5 (extra-exciting 5th CD from this well-established power metal band; by the way, fans of this band need to make sure to check out Instanzia) - CLINT
Axenstar - The final requiem 4/5 (one of the proven better power metal bands returns with another fast and exciting CD; highly recommended) - CLINT
Axenstar - The inquisition 4/5 Axenstar Review - CLINT
Axenstar - Far from heaven 4/5 - CLINT
Axenstar - Perpetual twilight 3.5/5 - CLINT
Axevyper - Metal crossfire (hopefully coming soon)
Axevyper - s/t 4/5 Axevyper Review - KIT
Axiom - Truths denied 3/5 Axiom Review - CLINT
Axiom - A moment of insanity 3/5 (side-project debut from Italian band Landguard; progressive power metal with lots of keys, a variety of vocals and a modern twist) - CLINT
Axxis - Utopia 4/5 Axxis Review - MICHAEL
Axxis - Doom of destiny 4/5 (another stellar effort, with enjoyable songs and melodies which never disappoint!) - MICHAEL
Axxis - Doom of destiny 4/5 Axxis Review - SEAN
Axxis - Paradise in flames 3.5/5 Axxis Review - MICHAEL
Axxis - Time machine 3/5 - MICHAEL
Axxis - Pure & rough 3/5 - MICHAEL
Axxis - Eyes of darkness 3/5 - MICHAEL
Axxis - Back to the kingdom 3/5 - MICHAEL
Axxis - Voodoo vibes 3/5 - MICHAEL
Axxis - Matters of survival 2/5 - MICHAEL
Axxis - The big thrill 2.5/5 - MICHAEL
Axxis - II 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Axxis - Kingdom of the knight 3.5/5 - MICHAEL
Ayik, Taylan - Yalniz hayal 3/5 (engaging W.A.S.P. worship from Turkey, including Lawless-type vocals/songwriting; better than the 'Neon god' releases, for sure) - KIT
Ayreon - 01011001 3.5/5 (another strong, albeit familiar progressive metal rock opera; not as superb as 'The human equation' though) - JOHN
Ayreon - The human equation 5/5 - JOHN
Ayreon - Universal migrator part ll: Flight of the migrator 4/5 - JOHN
Ayreon - Universal migrator part l: The dream sequencer 4.5/5 - JOHN
Ayreon - Ayreonauts only 2.5/5 - JOHN
Ayreon - Into the electric castle/A space opera 4/5 - JOHN
Ayreon - Actual fantasy 2/5 - JOHN
Ayreon - The final experiment 5/5 - JOHN
Azeroth - Historias y leyendas (hopefully coming soon)
Azeroth - II (hopefully coming soon)
Azeroth - s/t 4/5 - KIT
Azotic Reign - Abstract maledictions 3/5 - KIT
Azrael (Jpn) - Dream on 3.5/5 (great 4th CD of Japanese power metal in the style of Prophesia, Seven Seas, Arcadia, Knights of Round, Rekion and Atomic Tornado) - CLINT
Azrael (Jpn) - Sunrise in the dreamland 3.5/5 (great 3rd CD of Japanese power metal with high-pitched vocals; features the vocalist of Prophesia) - CLINT
Azrael (Jpn) - King of the steely nation 3/5 - CLINT
Azrael (Jpn) - Run for the night 3/5 - CLINT
Azrael (Spa) - Metal arena (hopefully coming soon)
Azrael (Spa) - Libre (hopefully coming soon)
Azrael (Spa) - Dimension IV 3.5/5 (another contender in the Spanish power metal sweepstakes) - KIT
Azrael (Spa) - Mafia 2.5/5 - KIT
Azrael (Spa) - Futuro (hopefully coming soon)
Azrael (Spa) - Nada por nadie (hopefully coming soon)
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