Special correspondent for Philly Rock Radio, Pete Fry, speaks with guitarist Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Broadway's Rock Of Ages). Joel and his musical companion, Brandon Gibbs, bring their Campfire Tour 2022 to The Landis Theater in Vineland, NJ on Friday, September 23rd. Tickets are available through the theater's website. 

Whitesnake's Joel Hoekstra and Devil City Angels' Brandon Gibbs have joined forces to form a powerhouse acoustic duo, playing limited dates in between working with their many other successful projects. Their live duo performances are both intimate and high-energy, featuring a wide variety of material from bands that each of them have been a part of, along with innovative original music, and great stories from their respective careers. The energy and stage presence that radiates from these two make this a "must see" show. Their mix of song choices leaves the audience begging for more as there is literally something for everyone. Both Brandon and Joel have a long history of bands they have either been a part of or performed with including Whitesnake, Devil City Angels, Poison, Night Ranger, Cher, and Trans-Siberian Orchestra to name only a few. While this show has an intimate vibe, don't let that fool you; the sound is bigger than ever with these two guitar extraordinaires bringing it home every show!

​Between them, Taylor Dayne, Tiffany, and Jennifer Paige scored 12 Top 10 Billboard singles in the '80s and '90s, including three No. 1's. Decades later, songs like Dayne's "Tell It To My Heart," Tiffany's "I Think We're Alone Now," and Paige's "Crush" remain irresistibly catchy pop classics.

On Saturday Oct. 8, music fans will have the opportunity to watch all three women perform on the same stage, as well as several other talented female-fronted acts, at the Ladies Who Rock 4 A Cause 5th Annual Charitable Music Festival at Cannstatter Volksfest-Verein, 9130 Academy Road in Philadelphia.

The bill also includes the Sharon Lia Band and Kick It Out - a Tribute to Heart. Lia and Kick It Out lead singer Sandy Hall are co-organizers of the event, which raises money to help women in need and to "bridge the gap between the resources they have and the resources they need." Lia started Ladies Who Rock 4 a Cause in 2015 as a way to combine her passions for music and helping people overcome their challenges. Hall got involved a couple of years later.

Lia and Hall recently spoke to Philly Rock Radio about the event, some of their own personal ordeals, and how they landed the trio of hitmakers at the top of the bill.

"Each of these performers, including Sandy and I, we have a story. We all have challenges we've faced," Lia says. "It's really powerful to see someone rocking on stage with a smile on their face, but at the same time to know that they've been through things. It's empowering and inspiring. One of the main goals of Ladies Who Rock 4 a Cause is not only to help people in need, but to actually help them through their crises so they can continue on their journey."

Adds Hall: "I know how difficult it can be for women and all people when they're hit with a crisis they didn't plan for. It's an honor to perform at this event because it's a perfect combination of musical talent and people with a passion for helping others."

Check out the full interview with Sharon and Sandy below.

Gates open for the event at noon, and the music will continue until about 10 p.m. General admission and VIP tickets are available now. To purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or get more information, visit www.ladieswhorock4acause.org
 

Pete Fry, host of Fryday Night with Fry here on Philly Rock Radio, is also the proprietor of the Taproom on 19th in Philadelphia. If you haven't been, you should make plans to have a meal and some drinks there sometime soon. Food is amazing! Check out the article noted below to find Taproom on 19th and other hidden gems in the city.

Published on Redfin.com July 21, 2022 by Ryan Castillo

Regarded as “The City of Brotherly Love,” Philadelphia, PA is best known for its rich history, world-famous cheesesteaks, and vibrant art and music culture. While there are many famous attractions to check out like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the LOVE statue, there are also many lesser-known hidden gems that only a local would know about. Whether you are considering living in Philadelphia, renting an apartment in the Washington Square West neighborhood, or just playing tourist for the week, Redfin reached out to locals, including us, to share our best-hidden gems in Philadelphia from favorite restaurants to must-see locations. Check out Hidden Gems of Philadelphia: 17 Under-the-Radar Spots You Can’t Miss.

Battering Ram - "Hold On"
Black Star Riders - "Better Than Saturday Night"
Generation Radio - "Why Are You Calling Me Now?"
H.E.A.T. - "Hollywood"
Madhouse - "Down 'N' Dirty"
Michael Monroe - "Everybody's Nobody"
Monster Truck - "Golden Woman"
Resist & Bite - "Home"
Sonic Circus - "This Feeling"
The 69 Eyes - "Drive"
The Cruel Intentions - "Venomous Anonymous"
Ugly Kid Joe = "That Ain't Livin'"
Voodoo Angel - "The Exit Day"

​#nowplaying #newmusic #phillyrockradio

Here are the new releases that have been added to our New Music Playlist. Tell us what you think in the comments below, text 856-248-0988 or email admin@phillyrockradio.com

Thanks for listening!

Listen online right here, or use the Live 365 mobile app and plug us into your car and ears!
​

• Bad Baron - Can You Love Someone (For Just One Night)
• Deaf Rat - Take Me To Church
• Deraps - Veins of My Heart
• Jackyl - Get All Up In It
• Jones Street - What Comes Around
• Kardang - We Ain't Dead Yet
• L A Cobra - The Star
• Liar Thief Bandit - Diamonds (Are Made Under Pressure)
• Locust Grove - One Foot In The Grave
• Marcus King - Rescue Me
• Mile - Into The Fire
• Motley Crue - I'm A Liar (That's The Truth)
• Northern Ladies - Boomerang (I'll Be Gone)
• Nova Rex - Time Is Up For You
• Nuclear Nightshift - Alcoholiday (feat. Niko Rimbacher & Michael Monroe)
• Rat Rod - Call Down the Thunder
• Sandgaard - On My Way (feat. Robert Mason)
• Sister Salvation - Solitary
• StunGun Sons - Voodoo
• Taming Sari - No Shelter
• Tarraska - Getting Out Alive
• Wayward Sons - Can't Take It Anymore

#phillyrockradio #nowplaying #newmusic

Here's the new songs added to our rotation this week, a long list of beauties to feast your ears on.

Of course, this isn't the only new music you'll hear on PhillyRockRadio.com, our lineup of original programs are always hitting you with new rock, as well as the classics you've always loved.

Love'me? Hate'em? Tell us what you think! Tell us what you want to hear! This is your station after all!

#nowplaying #newmusic #nwocr #newwaveofclassicxrock #newwave #newrockrevolution #sixtyyearsofrock #metal #hardrock #heavymetal #melodicrock #hairmetal #localmusic #radio #rocknroll  #rockandroll  #phillyrockradio

Here's the list of great new songs in heavy rotation starting this week. Of course, it won't be the only new and current rock music you'll hear on PhillyRockRadio.com, because our lineup of original programs are always bringing you new music, as well as the great rock, and metal you've always loved.

We encourage you to leave comments below, and we look forward to hearing from you!

1. Aerodyne - Dust To Dust
2. Bernie Marsden - Black Cat Moan
3. Electric Guitars (feat. Sanne Salomonsen) - Join The Ride
4. Grimm Jack - Ultraviolet
5. Jared James Nichols - Hard Wired
6. Junkyard Drive - Mind Eraser
7. MonteCarlo - Words
8. Thunder - One Day We'll Be Free Again
9. Thundermother - I Don't Know You
10. Tygers of Pan Tang - Red Mist

Greg Hawkes didn't necessarily expect to still be performing the music of The Cars at this stage of his life. But after playing a few of the iconic tunes with the young rock band Eddie Japan, he realized they were too good to leave on the shelf.

So the hugely influential keyboardist has hit the road for a handful of shows that brings him to the Landis Theater Saturday night in Vineland,  NJ. Hawkes and Eddie Japan will deliver an evening of Cars classics, including most of the band's legendary debut album.

Hawkes joined Philly Rock Live to talk about the upcoming show and share stories and highlights from his Rock and Roll Hall of Fame career, including the early days of The Cars and finding out Paul McCartney was a fan.

Check out the full interview with Kevin,  Johnny, and special guest Andy Vineberg at the 30 minute mark of the file below. 

GREG HAWKES with EDDIE JAPAN PERFORMING THE MUSIC OF THE CARS
DATE: Saturday May 7th
TIME: 8pm (doors open at 7pm)
VENUE: The Landis Theater, Vineland, NJ
TICKETS: Available at TheLandisTheater.com OR at the door
​

It was 1988 when Aerosmith unleashed his epic song. Fans across the globe went crazy for the tune, and poker players in particular appreciated the title (because who doesn't like to have a wild card in a poker game?).

Aerosmith’s delightfully fun lyrics, “I love you 'cause your deuces are wild, girl, like a double shot of lovin' so fine,” create a perfect link between the love of poker and the passion of a secret love affair. And the narrator further confirms his feelings for the mystery girl as he proclaims, “cause you and me is two of a kind.”

Poker has always had a hold on culture like no other game, and this has been highlighted in particular by great rock musicians. Thanks for reading, and please check out our blog for more content on all things rock 'n' roll. 

​PRESS RELEASE: For immediate use
Contact: Sandy Hall, 215-490-4699
sandyhall@me.com
For more info: https://www.josiemusicawards.com

Long time Philadelphia, PA vocalist Sandy Hall, originally from Vukovar, Croatia has won Artist of the Year in Rock from The Josie Awards, the largest, privately owned, multi genre award show recognizing the hard work of independent music artists, songwriters, and support businesses in multiple genres.
 
Hall is founder of Kick It Out, A Tribute to Heart band based in the Philadelphia and the South Jersey area. The magnetic, seasoned vocalist and songwriter received the award Sept 18, 2021 at the ceremony in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Out of almost 40,000 submissions, Hall was in the 2.6% that made it to nomination and was nominated in 4 categories.  The awards show was filmed to be streamed with a date to be announced soon.
 
Since 2008, Kick it Out has performed to crowds at large venues in NY, NJ, PA, Delaware, Virginia, Massachusetts, Connecticut and in 2017 at Springfest in Ocean City Maryland on the same bill with legendary Joan Jett and the Blackhearts.  Singing in the role of Heart’s Ann Wilson, Hall’s soulful tone coupled with her powerful "big" voice is often compared to iconic female rockers like Pat Benatar, Chrissie Hynde, Melissa Ethridge and Stevie Nicks. Her soaring vocals and moving performances have left crowds with many “a goosebump moment.”

Hall started singing professionally very young—appearing on local TV in grade school and soloing in church as a teen. She recorded national radio commercials, including a Carefree sugarless gum ad that aired in 11 cities. Since the 80’s she has rattled the rafters of noted Philadelphia, Delaware and New Jersey hot spots to thousands of fans as a lead vocalist for many rock/pop and special affairs bands as well as original bands opening for national performers Robert Hazard and Heaven’s Edge. In recent years, Sandy has performed her originals supporting Kip Winger, Dan Reed of the Dan Reed Network, Jeffery Gaines and Living Colour.

Hall also has extensive recording studio experience, lending her voice to original tracks written by others as well as writing and recording her own music. Along with her KIO shows, she vocal coaches and mentors young aspiring singers and she continues to perform her own original music written with Chris DeMuro and music written John Ignatius Callaghan from her CD Sign Language in the tri-state area. New music is presently being recorded for upcoming release.
 
For her day job, Hall is a Registered Nurse clinical program consultant for a healthcare company. She and her husband, Chris, founded the North Ridge Music School and have three children.
 
She was nominated in 4 categories: Artist of the Year Rock genre, Vocalist of the Year Rock genre, for Sign Language CD songs submitted written by Callaghan, for Songwriter Achievement for Full Circle cowrite with DeMuro, and Tribute Artist of the Year Heart tribute band Kick It Out.
 
Hall’s CD Sign Language was remixed, remastered, and released in 2021 and submitted for these nominations. 
 
The award show was held at the Country Tonite Theater, which holds about 1,500 people. The two-day included the award show, red carpet, media interviews, a Vocal Competition,  Songwriter Workshop and multiple artist performances at the pre-concert and awards ceremony.
 
For more information on Hall and the band:
www.sandyhallmusic.com
http://www.kickitoutband.com/home.html
For streaming platforms:
https://sandyhall.hearnow.com
 
 
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​























Germany's gritty blues-rock-duo The Picturebooks have released their new single / video, “Rebel”, featuring Halestorm's Lzzy Hale. The video was filmed in Nashville and Berlin (Sony ‘Circle’ Studios) and the single is available to purchase and on all streaming platforms.

Lzzy states about track, “This project came into my life at a time when I really needed it. The Pandemic stole a huge part of my life, and my identity. I was forced to look myself in the mirror and figure out who I am without that missing piece. I had to remind myself that no matter what is happening outside...the flame that burns inside of me is still alive. Writing these lyrics was like drawing a road map to guide myself back to who I am. No one can do it for me, no one can save me but myself. In order to do that, I have to start a revolution inside my soul, and be a rebel from the inside out. This song is my war cry.

The instrumental music was so inspiring that by the third listen the melody naturally spilled out like some alien hybrid of all my influences. 

I am so grateful to The Picturebooks for bringing me into their world and giving me the freedom to express my personal journey of rediscovering myself. And I know that, in times like these, this song will bring the listener hope for the future and the confidence to survive whatever that future becomes.”

www.youtube.com/watch?v=lftJu1W8UMk

The Picturebooks adds, “It’s hard to put in words how excited we are about this collab. Lzzy has been the number one artist we wanted to work with when we started this project and bottles were poppin’ when she gave us the go to be a part of it. 

Honestly, the stuff she came up with for this song was beyond our expectations. When we wrote the song we knew that if we send this to anyone, it’s gotta be Lzzy.
We knew about the potential of the song, but we didn’t know it could be this good. How in the world did she pull this off? 

Beyond excited, Beyond happy. Mission accomplished.”

Due to their recently released collaborations with Dennis Lyxzen (Refused), Neil Fallon (Clutch) and additional musical appearances by Ryan Sinn (The Distillers) and Dave Dinsmore (Brant Bjork), the duo created some wild rumors within the last weeks with their unstoppable activities and tirelessness. This said, it is time to put an end to the secrecy and officially announce their new album "The Major Minor Collective" will be released September 3rd.

The Picturebooks & The Major Minor Collective was born out of the insane idea of bringing together various artists, who have either inspired the duo or who are their friends. The idea was to have some kind of creative exchange in these crazy times, a bridge to fellow artists. It also opened the musical range of the band in many ways and leads to the most varied musical work the pair have ever done in their career.

THE PICTUREBOOKS “ON THE ROAD AGAIN“ 2022 Tour Dates:
13/03/22 Hamburg @ Nochtspeicher (GER)
15/03/22 Gothenburg @ - Pustervik (SWE)
16/03/22 Stockholm @ Slaktkyrkan (SWE)
17/03/22 Copenhagen @ Hotel Cecil (DNK)
19/03/22 Antwerp @ Kavka (BEL)
20/03/22 Zwolle @ Hedon (NLD)
22/03/22 Cologne @ Artheater (GER)
23/03/22 Wiesbaden @ Schlachthof (GER)
25/03/22 Berlin @ SO36 (GER)
26/03/22 Leipzig @ Moritzbastei (GER)
28/03/22 Prague @ Futurum (CZE)
29/03/22 Krakow @ Kwadrat (POL)
31/03/22 Budapest @ Robot (HUN)
01/04/22 Vienna @ B72 (AUT)
02/04/22 Zurich @ Werk 21 (CHE)
07/04/22 Barcelona @ Razzmatazz 3 (ESP)
09/04/22 Madrid @ Caracol (ESP)
10/04/22 Bilbao @ Stage Live (ESP)
12/04/22 Stuttgart @ Universum (GER)
13/04/22 Munich @ Strom (GER)
14/04/22 Bielefeld @ Forum (GER)
17/04/22 Paris @ La Maroquinerie (FRA)
19/04/22 Manchester @ Rebellion (GBR)
20/04/22 Dublin @ Grand Social (IRL)
21/04/22 Glasgow @ King Tuts (GBR)
23/04/22 London @ The Dome (GBR)
24/04/22 Bristol @ Exchange (GBR)
27/04/22 Sheffield @ Corporation (GBR)
28/04/22 Birmingham @ Mama Roux´s (GBR)

​

ACCEPT have been flying the flag of classic metal for decades, and with their latest album, "Too Mean To Die", they have once again proven themselves to be international chart stormers with top 10 placings worldwide.

Now, after a long absence due to Corona, they are proud to announce they will finally be returning to European stages in 2022, with their usual driving energy full of irrepressible power. They will be playing the new album "Too Mean To Die" and the ACCEPT classics.

Watch the tour trailer here: https://youtu.be/Tu6_dZlQpCA

For decades, ACCEPT have stood for pure metal, great melodies and unforgettable live moments. Their three exceptional guitarists will undoubtedly transform audiences into a surging mass and blow the virus into oblivion.

Because, according to Wolf Hoffmann: "We are too mean to die! Weeds do not die! ACCEPT won't let it get them down!"

Philip Shouse adds: "The best thing that will happen for us is to go to the airport, get on a plane, fly to you and play a big, fantastic gig".

The words say it all, because 'The Best Is Yet To Come' is not only an outstanding song from the new record, it also sums up the current situation - things can only get better.

ACCEPT will be supported in Europe by none other than PHIL CAMPBELL AND THE BASTARD SONS, who unforgettably brought venues around the world to boiling point with MOTÖRHEAD and stands for pure Rock N Roll, because even without Lemmy (R.I.P.), Phil has the controls set to 12 or 13!

The US speed/thrash wrecking ball veterans FLOTSAM & JETSAM complete the billing and can't wait to play the stages to the ground.

Today, the band also kick off the pre-order for their brand new "Too Mean To Die" Glow In The Dark vinyls. Pre-order your copy here: http://nblast.de/AcceptTMTD-Glow

"Too Mean To Die" is also available in various other formats, here: http://nblast.de/Accept-TooMeanToDie
​

​Sadly on May 19, 2020, the rock world lost Smashed Gladys frontwoman, Sally Cato.  

Golden Robot Records wants to honor Sally by releasing Smashed Gladys "Raw" later this year. 

"Raw" is a collection of  new material which they were recording as demos for their 3rd album, newly remixed and remastered by the bands' first producer, Mark Dearnley.

"Raw" will also include 4 additional songs, being released for the first time ever, taken from when the band recorded close to an album worth of material produced by Kiss legend Gene Simmons.

First up is the single "Bump In The Night" which Golden Robot Records will release on April 12th.

A classic 12-bar boogie rock 'n' roll song, "Bump in the Night" is a twist on the horror movie trope in the vein of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

​https://www.facebook.com/Smashed-Gladys-185987408115461
https://twitter.com/SmashedGladys
http://www.smashedgladys.nyc/home.html

10. Mother Love Bone, 'Apple' (1990)

Who said supergroups couldn't rock. 'Apple' is one of those records that flies under the radar. The album features a combination of jazz-infused punk and funk metal. Many of the tracks share a Zeplinesque tone infused with a modern-day flavor. Standout songs include "Come Bite The Apple," "Stargazer," and "Capricorn Sister." There is no telling how great this band could have been, as their career was unfortunately struck down by tragedy before it began. Sadly, lead singer Andrew Wood would die of a heroin overdose just a week before the record's release. 

​Stone Temple Pilots debunked the sophomore jinx with this standout release. Coming off a very successful debut record with 'Core,' the boys were looking to take their brand to the next level. 'Purple' was just what the Dr. ordered as the record hit #1 on the Billboard Top 200. While the era-defining hits "Vasoline," "Interstate Love Song," and "Big Empty" paved the album's success, those stellar deep cuts like "Army Ants," "Silvergun Superman," and "Kitchenware and Candybars" truly defined the greatness of this masterpiece. 

8. Temple of the Dog, 'Temple of the Dog' (1991)

​​What initially began as a side project to honor Andrew Wood's passing; quickly morphed into one of the great all-time grunge classics. The collective star power on the record was enough to light up any stage, with Chris Cornell, Stone Gossard, Jeff Ament, Matt Cameron, Mike McCready, and Eddie Vedder. Touching tributes like "Say Hello to Heaven" and "Hunger Strike" are fantastic songs in their own right. Add in tracks like "Pushin' Forward Back," 'Call Me A Dog," "Your Savior," and "Four Walled World," and the album screams elite.

7. Alice in Chains, 'Jar of Flies' (1994)

​​Some will shout blasphemy to include an "Ep" on a top album list. The opinion is duly noted, but hindsight's 2020.  Alice In Chains entered the studio in 1994 (after a rigorous tour) with zero material written and came out having produced an absolute gem in seven days. The record features a collection of acoustic works of art that would make even Mozart bow to their throne. The collective mixture of iconic acoustic jams made it to #1 on the Billboard Top 200. Not bad for an album that was constructed in less than a week, from start to finish.

6. Soundgarden, 'Badmotorfinger' (1991)

'Badmotorfinger' is often overshadowed by its peers, but that is no indictment on the record's content. Having been released on the same day as Nirvana's 'Nevermind,' it, unfortunately, started behind the eight balls. However, this record gained momentum over time, carving itself out as a staple in the Grunge Metal hierarchy. Ravaging tracks like "Rusty Cage" and "Outshined" are epic tone setters. However, hidden gems like "Jesus Christ Pose" and "Drawing Flies" emphatically announce the album's place among Grunge's elite.

5. Alice In Chains, 'Facelift' (1990)

'Facelift' was a precursor of what was yet to come. When Alice In Chains released their debut record, grunge was not, however, a household name. While the genre had not been coined yet, this record set a series of chain events that would shape this musical transformation. Megahit "Man in The Box" became the template for future grunge metal playlists. Meanwhile, tracks like "We Die, Young," "Sea of Sorrow," "Bleed the Freak," and many others quickly enshrined the record as a standout masterpiece of the era.  

4. Soundgarden, 'Superunknown' (1994)

Soundgarden perfected their craft with this epic game-changer. Fueled by the encompassing passion of frontman Chris Cornell, the band channeled that energy into every recorded track. The new composition and precision songwriting allowed the group to fine-tune their signature sound and style. "Fell on Black Days" and "Black Hole Sun" became era-defining songs. Consequently, the album is littered with deep cuts up and down, including standouts like "Fresh Tendrils," "4th of July", "The Day I Tried to Live," and "Like Suicide."

3. Nirvana, 'Nevermind' (1991)

​If this were a popularity contest, 'Nevermind' would certainly take top honors on this list.  The album undoubtedly created a musical revolution, the likes that we have very rarely seen.  The band combined an influential blend of punk and rock that struck the core of America's youth gone wild.  While "Smells Like Teen Spirit" captured the spirit of even the most casual fans of rock.  Meanwhile, standout songs like "In Bloom," "Come As You Are," and "Lithium" catapulted the record to the depths of its rabid cult following.  This record is ground zero for the grunge era.

2. Pearl Jam, 'Ten' (1991)

After Nirvana dropped 'Nevermind,' Pearl Jam emphatically shouted, "HOLD MY BEER!" If 'Nevermind' is the motherload, then 'Ten' is its daddy. While 'Nevermind' follows a more distinct punk style playbook, 'Ten' veers more closely down a classic rock highway. 'Ten' is Pearl Jam's, Mona Lisa. So many great tracks it's hard to name just a few. One would venture to find one mediocre song among the entire album. "Even Flow," "Alive," and "Jeremy" are cornerstones of the era; lesser-known gems like "Porch," "Garden" and "Deep" are solid gold.  

1. Alice In Chains, 'Dirt' (1992)

​'Dirt' is not only the magnum opus for Alice In Chains, but it represents the Mount Rushmore for all of Grunge. While every album in the top ten is excellent in its way, the songwriting on this particular one stands out. Between the doom-laden harmonies of Cantrell and Staley's lyrics and the ever-evolving sound of fantastic musicianship, 'Dirt' sets itself apart at the top. Obvious hits like "Them Bones," "Rooster," and the title track "Dirt" emphasize the magnitude of the album's greatness. "Hate to Feel" may be the most-least recognized deep cut masterpiece in the history of metal! Pop it in and crank it to Ten! 

​Many people ask the question; if there was a BIG 5 of THRASH…who would be the fifth band amongst METALLICA, Megadeth, Anthrax, and Slayer?

Some enthusiasts would say that Exodus belongs on this list.  Others would emphatically argue that it's Overkill.  Still others would vote for Voivod or Celtic Frost.   And some place-some where, Kreator fans are angrily banging their fists in disagreement.

The truth is, no matter what band that you believe belongs on this Mount Rushmore, it's always going to be a matter of opinion.  However; you know what they say about having an opinion: opinions are like assholes...everyone has...nevermind.  

With that being said, one fact remains.  If there were a Big 5 of thrash, Testament would rise above the rest...  

​Testament is an American Thrash Band that was formed in 1983 in Berkley, CA. Considering the Band played the San Francisco Bay area, they received widespread exposure in the underground metal community, just as fellow bands METALLICA and Megadeth had done.

The band was originally formed by guitarist Eric Peterson…and has been through numerous line up changes ever since, during it's 37 years of existence.

Many people don’t know this, but Testament was originally named Legacy, which actually became the title of their first album…and was released in 1987.

​Originally joining Eric Peterson in the band was Alex Skolnick, a Joe Satriani disciple. Also joining the band was lead vocalist Chuck Billy, who replaced Steve Souza, who then went on to form Exodus.

When 'Legacy' was released in 1987….Testament quickly became a popular trademark in the thrash metal community. In order to promote their new album, they began a tour with Anthrax, who were actually promoting their own new album 'Among the Living'.  The record has since become a staple for the signature thrash metal playbook.

​The bands earlier records focused on dark themes while taking a deep dive into the occult. As the records mounted, Testament continued their rise to the top of metal charts across the world.

​Their 3rd album, 'Practice What You Preach' was released in 1989.  It was the band's highest charting record to date and shared more realistic themes like politics and world corruption.

Then came the "Grunge Era" and Testament was failing to connect with their fans.

​At this point the band released a slower, more mainstream metal album called 'The Ritual'.  This marked a turning point for the band as the record rose to 55th on the Top 200 Bilboard List.  It was the most successful record up until that point and found them at the top of their game!

​The single “Return to Serenity” received favorable reviews as it topped the charts at 22. This song received extended radio airplay…allowing the band to attract a larger audience.

Testament has assembled quite an extensive catalog over the years.  In fact, 2020 saw them release their 13th studio album, 'Titans of Creation':

ALBUMS:
1) The Legacy (1987)
2) The New Order (1988)
3) Practice What You Preach (1989)
4) Souls of Black (1990)
5) The Ritual (1992)
6) Low (1994)
7) Demonic (1997)
8) The Gathering (1999)
9) First Strike Deadly (2001)
10) The Formation of Damnation (2008)
11) Dark Roots of Earth (2012)
12) Brotherhood of the Snake (2016)
13) Titans of Creation (2020)

Check out Philly Rock Radio Blog - PHILLY ROCK RADIO to see the band's albums ranked worst to first.

​From 1999-2008 the band failed to produce an album. During this time Chuck Billy was diagnosed with Cancer and had to temporarily quit the band. The band then reunited and toured from 2005-2008.

Finally, in April of 2008, Testament released 'Formation of Damnation', which marked the return of Alex Skolnick who had left the band after 'The Ritual'.  Then in 2012, they released 'Dark Roots of Earth' which marked the return of the original lineup. This album saw the band return to their heavy roots and signature form.

Testament continues to be a major force in thrash today.  'Titans of Creation' is an extremely heavy and in your face record.  They remain one of the hardest working and most consistent bands of the thrash metal era.  With that being said, they definitely rank among the best of the generation.

​One always wonders who would make the list of the Big 5 if there was such a thing.  Well, I am here to tell you that Testament fits that bill closer than any other  bands on the list!  The new order has arrived and the titans of creation have spoken.  Testament, welcome to the BIG 5 of THRASH!

Release Date: October 23, 2020
Metal Blade Records

​Musicians:
John Bush (Vocals)
Joey Verra (Bass)
Phil Sandoval (Guitars)
Jeff Duncan (Guitars)
Gonzo Sandoval (Drums)

Armored Saint  is back and back with a vengeance they are.  


The band released their eighth studio album 'Punching the Sky' back in October and haven't looked in the rearview ever since. Saint has never wavered in style and sound as they refuse to be held back by labels or formulas. They're just a kick-ass metal band trying to have fun. 


​While the band always releases killer material, they have always remained a mystery as far as name-value goes. Armored Saint may very well be the most underrated band in all of metal.  


The veteran headbangers know a thing or two about making an excellent record, and this release harkens back to the classic era of the band. One thing that sets Armored Saint apart from most bands is their strong work ethic. This hard-working mentality enables the group to combine their elite musicianship with pristine songwriting.


As mentioned, 'Punching the Sky' has the band firing on all cylinders. 


There are zero filler tracks as this record represents plug-and-play at its finest. When one can listen to an album repeatedly, that is a tell-tale sign of an excellent piece of art. I've had this masterpiece on a loop from the moment it came out, and it never gets old! 


To summarize, 'Punching the Sky' is the band's most gratifying record since 'Symbol of Salvation' way back in 1991. The album combines all of the trademark elements of Saint with an added punch of modern flavor. It is a balls to the wall record that keeps the pedal to the metal.


The album starts with an ode to Irish folk music before rapidly changing paces.  "Standing on the Shoulders of Giants" is an epic thriller that takes the listener on a magical journey. While clocking in at just under seven minutes, the track shares many twists and turns.


​A slow build intro quickly ramps up to a signature John Bush bellow. Beefed-up dual guitar leads set the tone, and the rest is masterful music to your ears. Bush's powerhouse vocals are on full display as the song begins to beat like a battering ram of metal madness. Clean, crisp lyrics resonate throughout, and the song features a catchy chorus to boot.


The track then meanders through the bridge and hooks, like a fish out of water, before descending into a stellar lead guitar solo. The opening song is easily one of my favorite tracks on the record and maybe one of the band's best all-time; it's that good, folks.


If you thought the first track was transcendent among their catalog, then you better get a load of track #2.  "End of The Attention Span" kicks ass. It's that simple. If track #1 is robin, then track #2 is undoubtedly the album's batman. A meat and potatoes platter that leaves you with a fistful of forks.  


It features pissed-off vocals, driving guitars, aggressive riffs, loud drums, and bashing bass, the kind of song you turn the volume up to ten on and let er' rip! The musicianship on this track is pristine and tight. While the lyrics paint a picture of society's obsession with social media and the dangers it poses. Another "A" list track that I rank at the top of their all-time best.


The hits keep coming with tracks like "Bubble" and "My Jurisdiction," which provide a similar sound to early style Armored Saint. Full of raw attitude and emotion, they are hard rock anthems to the core. Another gritty, hard-nosed rocker, "Do Wrong to None," continues the gut-punch assault on its audience. All three tracks could find themselves among the local watering hole's setlist. 


At this point, we come to the middle of the record. 


And here lies the ace in the hole, the breaking point where many albums go off the rails and drop off musically. Not this one, though, folks. Instead of veering off the tracks, this song has its sights set on a crash course for stardom.


"Lone Wolf" is undoubtedly this album's masterpiece; if you're looking for 'Symbol of Salvation' vibes, then this is your pick! The track features all of the bells and whistles of a kick-ass metal tune. The song has it all: a stellar intro, up-tempo riffs, killer lyrics, pinpoint rhythm section, melodic vocals, harmonizing guitars, and epic awe-inspiring solo!


Bush screams with a vengeance. Phil Sandoval and Jeff Duncan leave you saying KK. Downing and Glenn Tipton who. Gonzo Sandoval tells Dave Lombardo to stand at the back of the line. And Joey Vera leaves Nikki Sixx in the dust. Stellar musicians at their absolute best here!


Wow, how do you follow up such a magnificent track moving forward? Quickly...you reset the bar!  "Missile to Gun" is an Anthrax-Esque rocket of thrashing metal. This missile is ready to fire, and it's all guns blazing. The tone of the track is set early as the rocket reaches take-off. An anthem that appears destined as a regular live set staple, John Bush flexes his vocal muscles showing why he's still the best in the biz.


As the album moves along, we now reach a crescendo of sorts with "Fly in the Ointment." A change of pace is in order as this one screams Alice in Chains. Bush does his best Layne impersonation, which sounds eerily similar to the fallen great. Another full-fledged hit as this album has now reached star power status.


The album is rounded out by "Bark, No Bite," "Unfair," and "Never You Fret." "Unfair" is a harrowing ballad that rings out true. In contrast, the final two tracks are bursting apart at the seams with energy and volume.


'Punching The Sky' is a standout record from beginning to end. Elite album composition sees the tracks flow together in seamless transition. It is no wonder that Armored Saint is one of the hardest working bands in metal. They represent all of the good things in music while displaying a top-notch professional demeanor. 


The band has hit a home run with 'Punching The Sky'. They deserve credit for defying the odds and putting out such a killer record so late in their careers. These guys are genuinely underrated at their craft and should be celebrated! 


'Punching the Sky' gets a 9/10 rating and ranks at the top of their best all-time albums. Right on cue, many music media outlets had the record at the top of their top album lists in 2020.


John Bush, Joey Verra, Phil Sandoval, Gonzo Sandoval, and Jeff Duncan...keep kicking ass and taking names! While fans are left punching the sky, Armored Saint is on their way to punching their ticket to platinum!! ​