ALBUM REVIEW: Avantasia – Here Be Dragons


Tobias Sammet’s Avantasia new record Here Be Dragons (Napalm Records) continues their bombastic brand of Meatloaf Metal. It is the German metal outfit’s tenth album and it is typically intense and grand in scale. Continue reading →


ALBUM REVIEW: Lucifer – Lucifer V


In the beginning … there was Lucifer! And now this fifth full-length outing for the “occult metal” outfit proves to be a thoroughly satisfying, good ol’ heavy rock ’n’ roll album which, at its very best – the outstanding “Slow Dance In A Crypt” – can be downright beautiful and utterly beguiling.

With song-writing nous, all-round playing chops and excellent production, including a superb, crunchy guitar sound, Lucifer V (Nuclear Blast Records) has at its heart the clean, clear, commanding voice of Johanna Platow Andersson. Continue reading →


Bruce Kulik Quits Grand Funk Railroad After 23 Years


Long-time lead guitarist of Grand Funk Railroad, Bruce Kulick has departed the band. He had been a full-time member of the band for 23 years. Prior to joining GFR, Bruce played in the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s with KISS, Union with John Corabi, Meatloaf’s touring band with his late brother Bob Kulick during their heyday, and many others. Bruce gave a new interview with Ultimate Classic Rock announcing his departure, and hinting a new music, and perhaps a long-gestating rock memoir are in his future plans. His final show with the band was on December 14th, 2023 in Marietta, Ohio.  Continue reading →