Metallic Blue Records is releasing for the first time on CD all the recordings from ’80s U.S. band HAVEN, titled “Turn It Up“. This Haven was a hard rock / melodic metal band from Cleveland, Ohio – not to be confused with Haven from New Jersey, or Haven from Oregon.
Haven formed in the early 1980’s starting out with the early demos being more AOR / Pomp so in vogue circa 1982. The band later got a more hard rock edge in the vein of bands like Fastway and Icon.
Haven moved out to Hollywood California where they filmed a music video for the song “Turn It Up” that was recorded at Cal. Art (same location that Quiet Riot filmed their “Metal Health” music video) and the music video got played on MTV’s basement tapes.
By chance the first band that Haven met after moving to Hollywood was Poison. Brett, Rikki and the boys helped Haven get into an apartment right next door to them. The bands partied a lot together which gave them a quick insertion to the famous Sunset Strip.
During this time Haven would get an opening slot playing with Poison as well as Thor. Haven put out their 1985’s self-titled EP and were quickly brought over to the UK to play several shows with bands such as Heavy Pettin’ and Paul Dianno’s Battle Zone’. The EP charted on the London circuit as the EP was sold at Shades Music Store.
After the band broke up, Todd (drummer) went onto form the band NewHaven. Darryl went onto win a Grammy producing for Macy Gray. Todd would later drum for “A.Z.R.O.”, Anna Sahlene, and others.
Fans of Fastway, Mama’s Boys, TKO, Tokyo Blade will love HAVEN’s ”Turn It Up”, which comes complete with the 5-track 1985 EP, 2-track 7″ single and 7 never before released early demos…

Veteran musician & Radio personality KEITH ROTH is releasing his first solo album ‘The Law Of Diminished Returns’, a classic rock / hard 11-tracker of pure flesh n’ blood music.
With more than 30 years in the business, lead singer / guitarist with The Dictators and Frankenstein 3000, Keith Roth has recorded on over 50 records as well as producing, performing, touring and writing with many music icons. Since 2003, Keith Roth is currently the host of Ozzy’s Boneyard Ch 38 (6pm – midnight EST, Hair Nation Ch 39 12pm – 6pm EST); producing David Johansen’s Mansion of Fun for over 20 years – Airing on The Spectrum Ch 28 12am – 3am EST.
Now Roth is embarking on his solo career releasing his first ever solo album ‘The Law Of Diminished Returns‘, featuring guest appearances by former Blue Oyster Cult drummer Albert Bouchard, Angel guitarist Punky Meadows, and Dictators / Manowar guitarist Ross the Boss.
From the funky bop of “Superfly” and the Hammond B3 infected ‘What It Means’, to the glitter glam of ‘Down In The Room’ (with its dirty Meadows solo) and the irresistible pull of “She Says Good Morning,” every track equals grimy rock n’ roll perfection.
Replace your morning caffeine with this one!

Together with TARZEN 1984’s debut album ‘Taboo’, Metallic Blue Records is reissuing the band’s second and final album 1989’s “Madrid“, including bonus tracks, fully remastered and for the first time officially on CD.
TARZEN was the brainchild of vocalist, keyboardist and producer Danny Peyronel, remembered for being the first keyboard player ever in UFO, and the only studio album he appeared on, 1976 ‘No Heavy Petting’ where he co-wrote songs too. Danny also founded the cult glam rock band Heavy Metal Kids, and later worked as songwriter and collaborator with other artists, like Bon Jovi, Aerosmith and Cher.
In 1984 Danny would be introduced to guitarist Salvador Dominguez who had been playing in the Spanish hard rock band “Banzai”. The pair hit it off while Danny’s brother Michel (drummer) was in Spain’s capital city Madrid, and the guys jammed for an hour and that is all it took, and the band TARZEN was born.
Danny brought the band’s first 4-track demo to England to pitch the album to ATCO records (UK division of Atlantic Records) who loved what they heard and quickly signed the band and released their debut self-titled album (now being reissued under the name “Taboo”). The band was quickly put on a tour in the USA with Dokken and Twisted Sister.
TARZEN would record their sophomore album “Madrid” on 3 different places (Europe, North America and South America). This album would be a bit more melodic with the same big backing vocals, but a lot more keyboard driven in the very popular Scandinavian AOR style similar to bands like Treat, Dalton and Zinatra.
Indeed, “Madrid” sounds very different than TARZEN’s debut – this 2nd album is pure Melodic Rock / AOR driven by Dannys’ keyboard flurry and massive choruses. For years this album was much sought after by AOR fans, now finally on CD with a pristine remastered sound…

ROOK ROAD is all about rock n’ roll. The band has already thrilled large audiences on numerous support tours, including slots with Nazareth and Glenn Hughes. In spring 2025, the journey continues with their new album ”ROOK ROAD II” on a support tour across Europe with Michael Schenker.
Rook Road delivers an absolute headbanging vibe, charismatic heavy rock vocals, the finest guitar riffs, and a classic Hammond organ. Their catchy melodies drill into every twist and turn of the brain. With immense joy in playing and true rock influences, they break free from the old patterns of their musical forefathers, creating a unique and unmistakable sound.
This isn’t just for lovers of the good old days of bluesy hard rock and classic rock – Rook Road delivers a high-class performance that captivates their audience. Fans of Deep Purple, Uriah Heep, Rainbow, but also Black Country Communion, The Dead Daisies, etc, need to hear this incredible band….

And here’s in exclusive at 0dayrox the reissue of obscure hard rock band TARZEN debut album, 1984’s “Taboo“, reissued by Metallic Blue Records in remastered form including 4 bonus tracks. The album was originally self-titled, but in certain regions was titled as the opening track, “Taboo”. This is the first time “Taboo” is released on CD.
TARZEN was the brainchild of vocalist, keyboardist and producer Danny Peyronel, remembered for being the first keyboard player ever in UFO, and the only studio album he appeared on, 1976 ‘No Heavy Petting’ where he co-wrote songs too.
Danny also founded the cult glam rock band Heavy Metal Kids, and later worked as songwriter and collaborator with other artists, like Bon Jovi, Aerosmith and Cher.
But circa the mid-Eighties, Danny temporarily relocated in Spain, where he met Salvador Dominguez (guitarist for Banzai) and the seeds of TARZEN were planted. Including bassist Ralph Hood (from AORsters Grand Prix) they started to work on the album, with highly respected Stuart Epps (Twisted Sister, Vandenberg, Led Zeppelin) producing & mixing.
Musically “Taboo” is classic mid-80s hard rock with both American and European flavor, riff-driven, catchy at places and groovy at others. Danny’s keyboard runs sound like guitar in fact, and paired with Salvador’s swirling solos create a great effect. Some tracks bring to mind Heaven, others Twisted Sister circa 1983, and others KISS (Animalize era)…

”Young Fashioned Ways”, out March 21, 2025, from KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD and 3x Grammy winner and Blues Hall of Famer BOBBY RUSH, is about as close to perfect as a Blues record can get. Bobby (91 years old) and Shepherd (47 years old) have indicated that they wanted the record to showcase their love for Muddy Waters, and they wanted to challenge each other to push their creative achievements in working on the album. They succeed.
Bobby and Shepherd are backed on several tracks by a band of stellar musicians: Steve Potts on drums, Charles Hodges on keys and organ, Darryl “DJ” Pruitt on bass, Doug Wolverton on trumpet, and Charlie Di Puma on saxophone. Shepherd provides his signature guitar chops, which fit perfectly in with Rush, one of our great living legends, vocals.
To summarize, perfect leads + perfect band = perfect record. To expand: Bobby Rush’s vocals remain smooth and bright, Shepherd’s guitar remains crunchy and full, and the band compliments them perfectly.
”Young Fashioned Ways” is a celebration of the history, culture, and soul of the Blues, and shows off the unparalleled talents of two giants from different generations in the scene…

Canadian legends RUSH celebrate their 50 years as a band with their first-ever complete career anthology. 50 tracks on 4 CDs / 7 LPs into a golden box set titled “Rush 50” featuring selections from every studio, live and deluxe reissue album.
Igniting the experience are the very first two singles “Not Fade Away” and “You Can’t Fight It” remastered & reissued for the first time ever. The collection showcases 7 unreleased tracks including five 1974 live selections with the non-album songs “Bad Boy” and “Garden Road,” a Vault Edition of “The Trees” with an alternate guitar solo, and the very last performance with Neil Peart in Los Angeles on August 1, 2015 of “What You’re Doing / Working Man / Garden Road.”
A Must

Formed in 2020, HEART LINE is heavily inspired by legendary bands of the ’80s from Whitesnake to Foreigner, from Journey to Winger, Bad English, Giant, and so many others. Powerful and melodic, Heart Line takes us back to the heart of the AOR / Melodic Rock roots with its timeless melodies, rich harmonies, guitar-hero solos and powerful vocal lines, supported by a formidable rhythm section and virtuoso keyboard notes.
The group delighted with two lovely albums already, but wait to hear their upcoming third effort “Falling Heaven” – this is heavenly melodic rock / AOR crafted with love and detail for these genres. It’s a 12-track thrilling ride through the golden era, with strong songwriting, great musicianship, and an infectious passion for this type of music.
From the first spin, ”Falling Heaven” impresses with a punchy production, steeped in the warmth of a vintage ‘80s soundscape. While a touch more separation in the mix could enhance the overall clarity, it’s evident the band has purposefully aimed for an authentic retro feel – and they succeed admirably…

The new album from Italian melodic hard rockers WHEELS OF FIRE titled “All In” is about to hit the shelves this week. The band formed by vocalist, keyboardist and songwriter Davide “Dave Rox” Barbieri formed fifteen years ago and pleased us with three wonderful AOR albums plenty of melodies and catchiness.
The third album showcased the band adding new elements to the music. The songs leaned towards a more contemporary hard rock feel, incorporating modern elements in their sound while remaining faithful to their 80s melodic rock roots.
“All In” follows that path, with even stronger songwriting and arrangements while focusing on choruses, scratchy guitar riffs, breathtaking solos, and slick keyboards. A powerful rhythm section with pounding drums and solid bass, (courtesy of new member, Simon Dredo) help to create a collection of songs that simply defines modern melodic hard rock…

Swedish ’80s band ALIEN is a Scandinavian Melodic Rock / AOR institution – their self-titled 1988 debut album ranks among the best in the genre history. With their last album from 2020, they updated things with modern approach to the band’s established style, while still staying true to their melodic rock roots.
2025 marks a comeback with a new record coming out on March 21st, 2025 via Pride & Joy Music. With ‘When Yesterday Comes Around’, the band proves once again why they are revered within the genre. The trio of Jim Jidhed (vocals), Tony Borg (guitars), and Toby Tarrach (drums) remains intact, now joined by Jimmy Wandroph (keyboards) and Ken Sandin (bass, Swedish Erotica), crafting a record that is nothing short of spectacular.
Stronger and more melodic than its predecessor, with ‘When Yesterday Comes Around’ Alien has delivered everything fans could hope for and more. Whether your passion lies in AOR, Melodic Rock, Pomp Rock, or even classic Heavy Rock, this album has something for you. The songwriting is impeccable, the musicianship outstanding, the arrangements rich, and the production nothing short of stellar.
Without question, this is one of the finest releases of the year. Welcome back, Alien – you’ve outdone yourselves once again.

Before their Eurovision Song Contest victory that led to global fame, I was already a LORDI fan. The great combination of super hard rock soundtracks and 80s horror movie themes drew me in. For some, a ridiculous band, for many, very good an fun.
As we listen to SCG XIX The Hexicutioners, the intro of album 19 titled “Limited Deadition“, my feet tap in anticipation of ‘what’s next’, with a knowing smile given that the opening track has always been the inner circle nod to fans, providing something to look forward to with each new release.
Legends Are Made Of Clichés comes next, a fitting title for a Lordi song. The band has consistently embraced every visualization, lyrical topic, and musical style that represents the expected elements of horror movies – components that would diminish the film if absent. Lordi’s music follows this pattern. It doesn’t aim to revolutionize the world, but that’s not its purpose. A Lordi album seeks to entertain and create an experience that’s as visual as it is auditory.
You’ll listen with a wide grin if you grew up with AOR, metal, and hard rock in the 80s, as obvious titles get the Lordi twist. “Limited Deadition” is perhaps Lordi most ‘melodic hard rock’ album ever, a places reminding me of greats Wig Wam…

Nearly five years after the release of ‘#13’, Swiss rockers GOTTHARD are making a powerful comeback with their highly anticipated new album, ”Stereo Crush”, set to release on March 21, 2025.
The guys took the time to refine things and select the best material, and it shows; ”Stereo Crush” is a pretty killer 43 minute album of Rock and roll heaven.
We have high-energy anthems driven by the guitar duo Leo Leoni and Freddy Scherer igniting heavy riffs that haven’t been heard in the Gotthard realm for quite some time. The remarkable rhythm section, powered by bassist Marc Lynn and drummer Flavio Mezzodi, propels the Swiss express forward with relentless energy, while frontman Nic Maeder masterfully commands the journey through hard rock territory with his powerful and charismatic vocals.
”Stereo Crush” is probably their fastest, heaviest album in several years. Song after song we get hot riffs, strong singing, catchy choruses and a good, firm tempo…

We featured some time ago the two first albums by really good melodic hard rock outfit XYZ, the band fronted by capable Terry Ilous. It was requested here their third effort “Take What You Can…” as well, and it’s a really enjoyable album too.
The album was put together by Ilous in 1995 when XYZ was already put on hiatus and the vocalist involved in other projects. The disc is combination of live on tour recordings, radio performances, and rarely heard demos – a must have for any XYZ collection.
There’s 2 versions of ”Take What You Can…”. The first, released in 1995, and the Axe Killer / Bad Reputation remaster appeared 1997. Both contain the same first 8 songs recorded live, very hot and rockin’. All songs after differ on each release, as well as the artwork.
This is the Axe Killer remastered CD including as bonus tracks XYZ’s 1st EP ‘Straight In The Night‘, released in 1985 before band was discovered by Don Dokken and got signed to Enigma Records. This is the first time the EP was released on CD, and the only place to find it.
The U.S. and Japanese releases from 1995 are the same, as bonus including 6 tracks, radio appearances and well recorded demos musically with a heavier punch. We added as extra those songs.
“Take What You Can… [Axe Killer / Bad Reputation remaster] is a limited edition collectible where the live tracks sound quality is much, much better, and includes XYZ very first EP…

New York City’s own TOWER belongs to other planet – or better, other era. Their new album ”Let There Be Dark” is a powerhouse ode to classic ’80s metal full of sizzling guitar work and the massive vocals of female Sarabeth Linden. The CD mix the best elements of early U.S. metal and NWoBHM but with a sound & style that leaves you tired – tired of headbangin’!
This 5-piece dig deep into the Eighties metal crypts for retro gold – and dude, they are really good at it. Recording took place between October and December 2024, with renowned producer and engineer Arthur Rizk (King Diamond) at the helm. ”Let There Be Dark” is metallic, dark indeed, and heavy, but always melodic.
Opener ‘Under the Chapel’ is a barn scorcher full of dazzling riffwork leveraging the raucous, primal edge of NWoBHM, but rather than coming in at 12 and staying there, Sarabeth opts for seductive croons over brute force at times, using her enchanting siren song to create a more diverse experience. The aggressive music pairs very well with Sarabeth’s shifting tones and the song sticks in the grey matter immediately…

Do you wanna hear something refreshing? Just push play on the new THE STATESBORO REVUE album, their self-titled “Statesboro Revue“. This Austin, TX based band have been around for almost two decades, releasing a few albums but the last one dates from 2015, and since then they concentrated in standalone singles.
Now THE STATESBORO REVUE needed to express their music into a complete album, and glad they did. This is a wonderful band. There’s been a lot of buzz on this ‘comeback’ record, and it’s well deserved. As it turns out, “Statesboro Revue” covers a lot of ground, working that acoustic feel in with electric licks, organ, harmonica and even a bit of steel.
Yeah, THE STATESBORO REVUE brings to mind those classic American bands of yesteryear. This album delivers the Texas sound that they flex with rock ‘n roll, Southern rock, soul, Americana, funk, roots blues, country, and more, depending on the song they’re performing. There’s a twang all over these songs but with a rock groove foundation.
This band has the feeling, roots rock sound and attitude in their music that many bands before them have strived to achieve…