TOP 100 HARD ROCK SONGS OF 2017

The trend of rock star deaths continued in 2017 with some truly tragic losses, but it was also a year that featured an incredible diversity of memorable hard rock music.  To give Hard Rock Daddy readers a true sampling of what the year had to offer, the Top 100 Hard Rock Songs of 2017 only features one song per artist (although many released more than one single worthy of recognition).

A number of the songs on this list appeared on SiriusXM’s Octane Big ‘Uns Countdown and the Active Rock Mediabase chart during 2017.  To provide a snapshot of the overall year in hard rock and metal, this list features also features many songs that don’t have a home on radio.

From Active Rock to Classic Rock to Punk, and everything in between, the Top 100 Hard Rock Songs of 2017 features a diverse group of songs that all fall under the Hard Rock umbrella.  In addition to established, well-known artists, the list also features a number of “under-the-radar” artists who appeared on Hard Rock Daddy’s Music Discovery Monday.

The Top 100 Hard Rock Songs of 2017 featured on the playlists below can also be found on the Hard Rock Daddy Network (HRD’s YouTube channel).

 

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[1] STONE SOUR – “Song #3”

After a four-year hiatus – which felt like forever for Stone Sour fans – the band returned with a vengeance in 2017, dropping two singles from their latest album (Hydrograd) in one day.  Although “Fabuless” is an accurate description of one of the songs, the one that I was drawn to most was “Song #3” (a song that leaves you guessing what the hell it’s about).

It didn’t take long to figure out that, once again, Corey Taylor and company had delivered another modern-day love song in the same vein as “Say You’ll Haunt Me.”  That’s the thing with Taylor, his love songs are not of the obvious, emotions-on-your-sleeve power ballads of yesteryear.  Not only do they make you think, but they also favor flawed reality over idealistic sappiness.

Taylor confirmed his unique love song approach when he stated…

“‘Song #3’ is actually about a certain kind of love that I don’t think songwriters really talk about.  It’s that strong, passionate love, but also that undying love.  That really, really good shit, you know?  Everybody talks about the sappy stuff, everybody talks about the sexy stuff.  There’s that middle section where one meets the other, and you never know which way it’s going to tip on any given moment.”

Even though there are a number of power ballads from back in the day that are still near and dear to me, I realize that they read more like a Hollywood movie than a reality show.  Taylor is as real as they come, which is what makes his lyrics so intriguing.  With “Song #3,” he shows vulnerability with a hint of insecurity, all the while having the self-awareness to embrace his flaws…

So, what makes “Song #3” the #1 song of 2017?  The fact that I can literally listen to it several times in a row and enjoy them all equally.  The title may not sound like an all-time classic, but I suspect that this song will hold the same luster years from now that it does today.

 

[2] MR. BIG – “1992”

The world was a vastly different place in 1992.  Although mainstream rock was still strong, any band with big hair got labeled as “hair metal.”  While many were aptly described, Mr. Big was not.  They were an example of the proverbial “baby being thrown out with the bath water” as the popularity of grunge soared in the early ‘90s.

It would be easy for bands from that era to be bitter about a fate that was taken out of their hands, not by the fans, but by a record label.  On Mr. Big’s nostalgic look back at the pinnacle of their career, there is no bitterness.  If anything, the song is celebratory in nature, and shows gratitude to the people who really mattered…the fans.  Sure, there is a reference to the record label’s shoddy treatment of the band, but they certainly would have been justified to really dig into the ridiculous mindset that the label exhibited…

“The record company said to us…‘thank you man,’ then they threw us right into the garbage can.  But the good people listened and they pulled us through.  I was #1 in 1992.”

The song is about the band’s glory days when “To Be With You” went to #1.  The record company was excited when they went to #1, but then tossed them away when they weren’t considered “cool” anymore.  Even though the record company abandoned them, they remained grateful to the fans who stayed with them.  The band reminisced about the great times, and celebrated that experience.

What makes Mr. Big something much more than a hair band is the substance behind their music, particularly the technical brilliance and chemistry showcased by guitarist Paul Gilbert and bass player Billy Sheehan.  This duo could have easily gone off on a lengthy (but enjoyable) prog tangent if they so desired on “1992,” but instead, they use their virtuosity to tastefully enrich a melodic rock song that harkens back to the year that the song is about.  The technical aspects, the vocal melodies and the acappella vocal harmony break are all enhanced by lyrics that are simultaneously nostalgic and inspirational.

 

[3] ALTER BRIDGE – “Cradle To The Grave”

The epic theatricality of Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain”…the sweet melancholy of Black Sabbath’s “Changes”…the subtle mystique of Led Zeppelin’s “All Of My Love.”  Alter Bridge’s “Cradle To The Grave” is all of the aforementioned songs rolled into one masterful, heart-wrenching journey.

As always seems to be the case with one of the best bands of this generation (or any other for that matter), this song doesn’t get nearly the attention of any of the other classics mentioned above.

There’s no other band out there that can take such a solemn message and make you feel simultaneously uplifted and forlorn.  For my money, the best songs are the ones that make you feel deeply without even listening to the lyrics because they capture an emotion.  Alter Bridge’s “Cradle To The Grave” not only does this, it then takes it to another level as you pay close attention to the lyrics.

Myles Kennedy is so consistently brilliant at mixing insane vocals with genuine emotion, that it feels like his gift is taken for granted by the masses.  Of course, his fans (like me), joyfully bask in his brilliance, so he is appreciated, just not nearly as much as he deserves to be.  Neither is the rest of the band for that matter.

In my mind, AB is every bit as good as Soundgarden was, and Kennedy is in the same league as Chris Cornell.  Although the bands don’t sound similar, they both have that “it factor” that puts them on another musical level.  I’ll never understand what the legions of diehard AB fans around the world hear that eludes the masses (especially radio programmers).

Don’t let radio’s failure be the thing that keeps you from discovering the genius of Alter Bridge.  By all rights, “Cradle To The Grave” should be a song that goes down as a classic that gets played for decades to come.

 

[4] JOSH TODD & THE CONFLICT – “Rain”

He oozes cool and swagger from every pore of his body.  If you were to design a prototypical heavy metal star, he would be it.  He is Josh Todd, and he is one badass motherfucker.  His personality looms so large that his name might as well be Buckcherry.  When I saw that he had a new project out, I naturally wondered how this could possibly stand on its own and not sound just like the band that he is synonymous with.

Leave it to one of the best singers in rock to deliver everything that you love about him in a package that feels like something new and different.  With a vocal style so distinct, you can’t help but think of Buckcherry a little bit when you listen to “Rain,” but Josh Todd & The Conflict has its own sound.

Not since Queen “rocked” the world with “We Will Rock You” has a singer been able to hook you in with nothing more than a vocal line over a boot-stomping beat.  Like the Queen classic, the song eventually adds in memorable guitar parts, but it’s the pulsating beat underneath Todd that makes you stand up and take notice.

 

[5] CHRIS CORNELL – “The Promise”

Although his untimely passing came in May, Chris Cornell’s recording career most closely resembles the month of March…“in like a lion, out like a lamb.”  The lion being the edgier beginning of his career with Soundgarden, the lamb being his acoustical work of recent years.

Who could have ever predicted that the soaring vocalist who delivered in ways that few ever have with songs like “Outshined” and “Rusty Cage,” (to name a few) would leave us with a final recording that is poignantly bittersweet, soft and beautiful?

Released in March, “The Promise” was written for the ending credits of a film with the same name. The film tackles the subject of Armenian genocide.  Not being Armenian, you might be wondering why Cornell was asked to provide such a vital song to the film.  He did too.  Although the subject matter resonated with him because of his wife’s Greek ancestry (her family line was affected by the genocide), Cornell thought that Serj Tankian (System Of A Down) would have been the more likely choice.  Not only was Tankian working on the movie, but he has been outspoken about the genocide in the past.  Ultimately, Cornell agreed to write the song when it was made clear that he was neither too close nor too far away from the situation.

Because Cornell always seemed to make everything feel so effortless, it was surprising to learn that he struggled with the song initially.  In fact, the first draft was scrapped entirely.  The second time around, he just let the song come to him without trying to force what he thought it should be.

The talk since his passing has been mostly about what his music meant to countless people and the manner of his demise.  Lost in all of the tributes and discussions is Cornell’s philanthropic side.  “The Promise” was released as a charity single to help benefit the International Rescue Committee (IRC).  The IRC is a global humanitarian aid, relief, and development nongovernmental organization.  It was founded by Albert Einstein (a different kind of genius than Cornell).

Orchestrated by Paul Buckmaster (known for his collaborations with Elton John and the Rolling Stones), the final recording of “The Promise” was recorded with a 24-piece orchestra.  Cornell explained in a Rolling Stone interview that the song was meant to fit the film’s theme…

“I wasn’t trying to record a song that sounded like it was 1915, but I didn’t want there to be obvious modern references because, at the time, there was no such thing as the Beatles or Metallica or everything that is my reference for musical ideas.  So, the orchestra works just because that did exist and it can be a little bit out of time, so I was swimming in those waters of ambiguity.”

Swimming in the waters of ambiguity is something that this brilliant poet did with regularity throughout the course of his storied career.  As incredible as his voice was, his ability to make you see a mental picture with your mind’s eye when you listen to his lyrics is what made him special in a way that words cannot describe.

It seems fitting that “The Promise” plays under the closing credits of a movie, as it is the final chapter in a life that was filled with highs and lows.  Sadly, there was no Hollywood ending this time around…

 

[6] UGLY MELON – “The Rose”

Every song on Ugly Melon’s EP is outstanding, but their brilliant cover of Bette Midler’s interpretation of “The Rose” is near and dear to my heart.  The song, written by Amanda McBroom, was made famous in 1979 as the title track for the movie of the same name.

So what makes this song so special on a personal level?  To fully appreciate what this moment means, we must travel back in time to the ‘80s, when I had dreams (like many) of becoming a rock star.  The only problem is that I didn’t play any instrument, and was never more than an average vocalist (at best).  My strength was always in lyric writing and the ability to hear things in my mind that I knew others would appreciate if I was somehow able to have someone with true talent interpret my ideas.  That’s where Ugly Melon comes in – more specifically, vocalist Tony LaSelva and guitarist Lu Cachie.

It feels like a lifetime ago that this dynamic duo sent in a cold submission for a feature on Music Discovery Monday, but it actually wasn’t that long ago.  Since that time, Ugly Melon been featured a number of times on Hard Rock Daddy – including as the #13 song on the Top 100 Hard Rock Songs of 2016.

When I heard Bette Midler’s version of “The Rose” while driving in the car one day with my family, I instantly said that Ugly Melon has to do a cover version of the song.  I knew that LaSelva’s soulful vocal style would bring the emotion of the song to an entirely new level, and that Cachie would do the same with his poignant guitar arrangement.  The trick was conveying my vision to a band that wasn’t even looking to do a cover song.  Because of our relationship, this duo got to work on one of the most inspired hard rock cover songs that I’ve ever heard.

Given that we connect on a level that goes beyond music, I was able to use shared personal tragedies as an inspiration to get LaSelva to tap into exactly what I was thinking for the song.  He did what I would have done if I had his vocal gift.  Cachie took the references that I gave him and delivered something truly memorable.  It’s as if he had experienced the same pain as us.

You don’t have to be familiar with the original to appreciate this masterpiece.  Those who are familiar with the original will find that all of the elements that made the song emotionally stirring are still there.  Ugly Melon has brought out the bittersweet beauty of “The Rose” in a way that no one else could have.  I’m honored to have my friends be the ones to bring my vision to life in such a meaningful way.

 

[7] SONS OF APOLLO – “Coming Home”

“Supergroups” have become all the rage, but this kind of collective talent sets the bar incredibly high (even by supergroup standards).

Although the band can use its virtuosity to delve into intricate prog songs, “Coming Home” is more straightforward hard rock.  Interestingly, the opening keyboard riff is reminiscent of “Green Tinted Sixties Mind” (by Mr. Big).  Although Sons Of Apollo features Billy Sheehan on bass, his playing is not what has the feeling of familiarity.

“Coming Home” has a big, arena rock sound.  Sheehan pounding away on the double-neck bass gives the song a fat bottom, as does Mike Portnoy’s thunderous drumming.  With a rock solid foundation, Bumblefoot and Derek Sherinian have the freedom to showcase their immense talents.  Jeff Scott Soto’s passionate, soulful vocals shine throughout, and he even offers up a scream that conjures up memories of Roger Daltrey in “Won’t Get Fooled Again.”

While others would “zig” off of an energized scream, Sons Of Apollo “zag” into a more subdued moment, as if to let the listeners catch their breath.  Only true professionals can pull off this kind of transition with such natural ease.  The same can be said of adding in tasteful leads throughout, while keeping the song moving straight ahead.

Everything that you love about the musicianship of the golden days of rock is contained within “Coming Home.”  Personally speaking, I cannot wait until Sons Of Apollo comes to town with what promises to be a live performance for the ages.

 

[8] NOTHING MORE – “Go To War”

After a stellar 2013, which featured a number of radio hits, Nothing More finally returned to the scene in 2017 with new material (much to the delight of Active Rock radio programmers).  Frontman Jonny Hawkins, who has emerged as one of the best voices in the genre, picks up right where he left off the last time around.  Few modern singers are as dynamic as Hawkins, who has a special way of giving his thought-provoking lyrics deep emotions with his delivery.  From soft, vulnerable moments to impassioned, aggressive ones, Hawkins delivers the sound that so many have come to know and love.

“Go To War” is a song that was well worth the wait for new material.  One of the things that I always loved about Nothing More is that they are unique and diverse.  There’s a reason why this band immediately launched themselves into the upper echelon of Active Rock artists.  As much as they have to offer musically, this is one band where you get so much more out of the listening experience if you pay close attention to the lyrics.

 

[9] GEMINI SYNDROME – “Sorry Not Sorry”

The insight of “thinking man’s metal” (usually reserved for progressive acts) packaged into a powerfully melodic Active Rock song.  In a format that offers so many similarities, Gemini Syndrome stands on their own with a signature sound, and thought-provoking lyrics that show a keen awareness of the human condition.

With “Sorry Not Sorry,” Gemini Syndrome has once again delivered something special. On their previous single, “Remember We Die,” the band reminded us of the fragility of life and the importance of living in the moment. This time around, Aaron Nordstrom and company put the materialism of society, and the trend of favoring filtered social media over face-to-face interaction under the microscope.  As much as I appreciate the fresh sound that the band brings to a format that tends to stagnate, it’s the philosophical guidance that they offer with poignant lyrics that really sets them apart.

 

[10] TRIVIUM – “The Heart From Your Hate”

While many active rock bands these days find their sound and stay within a pretty narrow pocket, Trivium continues to remain relevant in the format while evolving with each record.  Some fans may find the evolution a bit dizzying, but to me, the band is just keeping things interesting.  The one constant is the quality of the songs and the meaningful lyrics, regardless of the musical direction.

“The Heart From Your Hate” is likely to have a feeling of familiarity to active rock fans, but not necessarily because of previous releases from Trivium.  The opening guitar riff, which carries throughout the song, is reminiscent of Avenged Sevenfold’s “Hail To The King,” while the song structure and vocal style (particularly in the chorus) conjures up thoughts of Gemini Syndrome’s “Remember We Die.”  Both of the aforementioned songs happen to be personal favorites, so there are no complaints here.

 

[11] MOTORHEAD – “Heroes”

On January 10, 2016, the rock and roll world was shocked and saddened by the death of the legendary David Bowie.  At that time, the world was still reeling from the passing of fellow rock and roll legend, Lemmy Kilmister (who died on December 28, 2015).  These two larger-than-life personas will be forever linked because of the timing of their respective passings, but that is not their only connection.

In 2017, a video of Motorhead covering Bowie’s haunting classic, “Heroes,” was released.  The song (recorded during the Bad Magic sessions of 2015) is featured on the band’s Under Cover album.  It was one of the last songs that Motorhead recorded together.

“It’s such a great Bowie song, one of his best, and I could only see great things coming out of it from us, and so it proved to be.  Lemmy ended up loving our version,” said guitarist Phil Campbell.

Drummer Mikkey Dee added, “not only because it turned out so well, but because it was fun!  Which is what projects like this should be – fun!”

Tinkering with a classic song is a bold move, but if anyone had earned the right to take some liberties, it’s Lemmy.  This version of “Heroes” has some altered lyrics, and is much heavier than Bowie’s version.  It features a heavy bottom and shredding guitars replacing the more mystical keyboards of the original.

Through it all, Motorhead somehow manages to simultaneously stay true to the original, while creating something that is unique in its own inimitable way.

There have been far too many losses in the rock and roll world to count since this passing of these two icons, but listening to this interpretation of “Heroes” took me back in time in a bittersweet way.  The original version, while one of my favorite Bowie songs, always left me feeling a bit melancholic in a way that I can’t exactly put into words.  This version does the same, but only because it reminds me of what we have lost.

 

[12] PHIL CAMPBELL & THE BASTARD SONS – “Spiders”

Shortly after Lemmy’s passing, the members of Motorhead released a statement that they would no longer continue on without the man whose name is synonymous with the band.  The end of Motorhead didn’t mean that fans would never hear from the other members again.

For over 30 years, Phil Campbell helped to shape the Motorhead sound with his raw, gritty guitar riffs.  Campbell has been around long enough to have spawned another generation of heavy metal musicians.  With Motorhead in the rear view mirror, Campbell and his sons [Todd – guitars, Dane – drums, Tyla – bass] joined forces with vocalist Neil Starr to write and record an album under the moniker Phil Campbell & The Bastard Sons.

On “Spiders” – the first single from Phil Campbell & The Bastard Sons – you can hear the Motorhead influence as it chugs along with a heavy riff and thick rhythm section.  However, because of Starr’s soaring vocals and the melodic vocal harmonies, this band has its own distinct sound.

Starr may not be one of Campbell’s “bastard sons,” but this unit works so well together, you’d think that he was a part of the family.  The Motorhead connection obviously helps, but even without it, this band has tremendous potential to become one of the top hard rock acts around.

 

[13] DROPKICK MURPHYS – “Blood”

With the exception of AC/DC’s “It’s A Long Way To The Top (If You Wanna Rock And Roll),” bagpipes in rock and roll are far from commonplace.  Of course, if you’re familiar with Boston’s Dropkick Murphys, you already know that bagpipes most certainly have a place in the genre.

What started out as a bunch of friends looking to play music for fun in the basement of a barber shop has evolved into a band with staying power.  Formed in 1996, Dropkick Murphys released their 10^th studio album in 2017 entitled 11 Short Stories Of Pain & Glory.

If ever there was a band of the people, Dropkick Murphys are it.  They state as much in their bio…

“The band’s main goal is to play music that creates an all for one, one for all environment where everyone is encouraged to participate, sing along, and hopefully have a good time.  In the true spirit of punk rock, we view the band and the audience as one in the same.  In other words, our stage and our microphone are yours.”

The more you play this one, the more it gets your “blood” pumping!

 

 

[14] FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH – “Gone Away”

Twenty years after The Offspring released “Gone Away,” one of the best “cover bands” in the world has released their interpretation of the song.  Yes, I realize that FFDP is not a “cover band,” but they are the masters of taking other artists’ songs and making them their own.

The band rarely disappoints in any regard, but they never seem to have a misstep when they are doing covers.  Of course, when you’re one of the biggest bands in the world, there is little chance of being compared unfavorably to the original.

Interestingly, as you listen to “Gone Away,” you’re more likely to be reminded of FFDP’s “Far From Home” than The Offspring’s original version of the song.  Like he did in “Far From Home,” Ivan Moody makes you feel anguish in what can best be described as an FFDP power ballad (of sorts).

These days, it’s not unusual for the biggest bands in the rock genre to do a full album of covers.  FFDP does them with regularity, but they sprinkle them in with their originals.

 

[15] A PERFECT CIRCLE – “The Doomed”

Maynard James Keenan had the following to say about A Perfect Circle’s latest single, “The Doomed”…

“In light of this current difficult and polarized social, spiritual and political climate, we artist types need to open our big mouths and share the light a little louder.” 

Personally speaking, I see both sides of taking Keenan’s advice.  Choosing a side in the divide has the potential to alienate a number of fans.  On the flip side, however, it also gives artists a chance to not only have their voices be heard, but also to expose themselves to a potentially new fan base.

Regardless of where you stand politically, one thing that is undeniable is the power of “The Doomed.”  The song does NOT feature the typical Active Rock radio sound, which is one of the things that makes it so compelling.  Following along the lines of what prog rock offers with regularity, “The Doomed” takes you on an intensely epic musical journey filled with twists and turns.  From the opening drum beat, which brings memories of John Bonham rushing back, to Keenan’s distinct, angst-ridden vocals, to the majestic marching band-esque staccato, to the softer moments that feel like a blending of Rush’s “Xanadu” and Christmas music, “The Doomed” draws you in and doesn’t let you go.  If you appreciate thought-provoking lyrics, and music that evokes a visceral response, you will be mesmerized by “The Doomed.”

 

[16] THEORY OF A DEADMAN – “Rx”

Theory Of A Deadman has established themselves as a staple Active Rock band with a distinct sound and style.  If you expect more of the usual fare from TOAD this time with “Rx,” you’re likely to either be pleasantly surprised or disappointed.  Personally speaking, I fall squarely in the pleasantly surprised category.  In fact, “Rx” actually might be my favorite song by the band already.

The vibe of this thought-provoking song is reminiscent of the one that Everlast captured nearly two decades ago with his hit song, “What It’s Like.”  Tackling the issue of society’s overuse of prescription pills, “Rx” is a harsh dose of reality that would actually be depressing if the song wasn’t so catchy and good.

 

[17] WAYWARD SONS – “Alive”

The blues of Led Zeppelin meets the darkness of Black Sabbath at the onset of “Alive” by Wayward Sons, a new project created by frontman Toby Jepson (Little Angels).  It all comes together quickly when Jepson enters with soaring vocals that bring back memories of what Ray Gillen could have been had his life not been cut short at the age of 34.

If you’re a fan of classic rock bands like Zeppelin, Sabbath and Whitesnake, you’ll instantly gravitate towards Wayward Sons.  The band is that good.  If you’re someone that likes to dig deeper into lyrics, you’ll appreciate the poignant message that these British rockers are delivering on “Alive.”

The song offers a sobering dose of reality.  While we may have our differences, in the end, each of our individual journeys ultimately take us to the same destination.  Life is filled with conflicts and disappointments, but it goes by quickly, so there is no time to waste.  The message, if you read between the lines of the song, is to seize the day.

It’s hard to believe Ghosts Of Yet To Come is Jepson’s first new album in 20 years.

 

[18] HEAVEN AND EARTH – “Hard To Kill”

For most of my life, I thought that Ritchie Blackmore was influential, but no one ever really captured the magic of his sound.  That was until I heard Heaven and Earth’s Stuart Smith, and realized that he may be the next great (underrated) guitarist, cut from the same cloth as Blackmore.  Of course, not everyone can claim to have been mentored by Blackmore as Smith was.

Overall, Heaven And Earth feels like the modern-day equivalent of Deep Purple and Rainbow.  This is not to say that the band is a wannabe version of two of classic rock’s most important bands.  Quite the contrary!  They are what should have been the natural evolution of “Deep Rainbow,” if not for the revolving door policy that has always been Blackmore’s M.O.

The similarities between Smith and Blackmore do not end with their brilliant guitar playing.  Both Smith and Blackmore hail from England.  And just like the original incarnation of Rainbow with Ronnie James Dio, Joe Retta (the dynamic frontman of Heaven And Earth) hails from upstate New York.

As a diehard fan of both Rainbow and Deep Purple, Heaven And Earth has already soared to the upper echelon of my list of current hard rock acts, bypassing most of the bigger names in the genre today.

If you close your eyes and listen to “Hard To Kill,” you are instantly transported back in time to the ‘70s (the golden era of bluesy hard rock).  I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again…music like this is not at all dated.  IT’S TIMELESS!

Hard rock fans often bemoan the current state of the genre, but it may be time to take a step back and evaluate what role the actual music plays in it.  While there is probably a higher quantity of talented bands putting out music than ever before, the number of bands that feel larger-than-life are incredibly few and far between.  Heaven And Earth is the exception to the rule.

Neither the band nor its individual members are household names, but based on talent and songwriting, they are as good as the legends that came before them.  If this band broke onto the scene four decades ago, we’d hold them in the same regard as the bands that laid the foundation for hard rock and heavy metal.

 

[19] THE UNITY – “No More Lies”

Founded by Gamma Ray members Michael Ehré (drums) and Henjo Richter (guitar), The Unity is the result of chemistry between the duo that goes beyond music.  Surrounded by four other accomplished songwriters, The Unity is melodic power metal at its best.  After spending 18 months working together, the band released their debut album in 2017.

If you’re a fan of melodic power metal, “No More Lies” is nothing short of brilliant.  The overall sound is tailor-made for arenas.  Though the band is rooted in Europe today, if music like this came out in the late ‘80s, The Unity likely would have been headlining arenas in America.

Kickass riffs, thunderous drumming, and last (but certainly not least), the majestic vocals of Italy’s Gianba Manenti complemented by dazzling vocal harmonies, makes you stand up and take notice of The Unity as something special.

This is the kind of band that makes American hard rock fans jealous of their European brethren across the pond.  For reasons that are completely baffling to me, melodic power metal doesn’t gain much traction in the U.S. (no matter how good it is).

 

[20] VOLBEAT (f. DANKO JONES) – “Black Rose”

There are a handful of bands that are virtually guaranteed enough airplay on Active Rock Radio to climb the charts with each single.  Volbeat is certainly in that rarified air, so they don’t need to team up with anyone to garner attention.  However, hearing another voice playing off of the distinct vocals of Michael Poulsen on “Black Rose” is inspiring.

Though not nearly with the same magnitude as Volbeat, Danko Jones has made an impact in recent times on radio as well.  His vocals perfectly complement Poulsen’s.  In fact, it was Poulsen who thought that Jones would be perfect for the song when Volbeat was writing it.

In an interview with Metal Hammer, guitarist Rob Caggiano stated…“Danko Jones is a good friend of the band. When we were working on ‘Black Rose,’ and Michael was singing the verse part, he was like… ‘maybe Danko Jones could sing on this one. It sounds like something he would do.”

Because of Poulsen, Volbeat is able to take chances that other bands may shy away from out of fear of not being heavy enough. “Black Rose” is a feel-good, upbeat song in the vein of “Lola Montez,” but with some pop sensibilities (although it does have heavier moments and shredding guitars sprinkled in).

 

[21] WARRANT – “Devil Dancer”

Warrant is known for being an ‘80s hair metal band, but if you listened to them for the first time in 2017, you’d never know it.  Their latest release – Louder, Harder, Faster – takes them in a heavier, blues rock direction.  This long-awaited album, which comes six years after their last release, is the second with Robert Mason at the helm on vocals.

Mason has certainly put his stamp on the band that he has been fronting for nearly a decade.  The album title came from something that he said during the dead air between songs during a concert years ago.  He is also the one who pushed the band to go in a heavier direction with the songwriting…

“I talked with Joey (Allen) early on, and I’m like ‘dude, I just want this thing to crush.  We’re not getting any younger.  How many more years can we do a real serious rock record before it’s comical because we’re 70?”

In an interview with That Drummer Guy, guitarist Erik Turner discussed the direction of the band’s latest release…

“I think we’re wearing our influences on our sleeves more than ever with this new record.  It’s more analog sounding, more organic, a little more rough around the edges.  When we were 12, 13, 14 years old, we were listening to Bad Company, Zeppelin, Aerosmith and bands like that.  I think that this record has more of that sound, that ‘70s classic rock sound that we grew up on.”

Warrant definitely captured the bluesy rock sound of the ‘70s with “Devil Dancer,” and blended it with an ‘80s hard rock sound and the more aggressive vibe of early Skid Row.  The heavy bottom and more sinister sounding riffs are ideally complemented by Mason’s soaring vocals.  Warrant’s new music is as good as anything that they ever recorded during the pinnacle of hair metal.

 

[22] ANOTHER LOST YEAR – “Call It Like It Is”

On 12/12/12, the seeds were planted for the launch of Hard Rock Daddy a few months later.  Those seeds were watered (so to speak) by Another Lost Year.  If not for Clinton Cunanan and company, there’s no telling when (or if) Hard Rock Daddy would have come to fruition.

Inspired by the traffic to a personal blog that came after Another Lost Year shared my Top 12 Hard Rock Songs of 2012 on social media (which featured “War On The Inside”), I decided that my next site would focus more specifically on music.

After only listening “Call It Like It Is” a few times, I can honestly say that it’s my favorite song that the band has released since I discovered them five years ago.

I was initially drawn to “War On The Inside” because the song (in particular Cunanan’s vocals) reminded me of one of my favorite albums of the ‘90s {Foma by The Nixons}.  On “Call It Like It Is,” I detect an interesting (and surprising) mixture of influences.  From the modern southern flair of Black Stone Cherry to the catchy Pop Evil-esque hooks, ALY has proven that they deserve to get attention from Active Rock radio.  In a very current way, the song also conjures up memories of George Lynch’s classic riffs with Dokken, and the powerful, shining vocal harmonies of the golden era of Kansas.

Listeners may hear different influences (or none at all), but what cannot be disputed is that Another Lost Year has hit it out of the park with “Call It Like It Is.”

 

[23] FOZZY – “Judas”

Chris Jericho may have become famous through his wrestling career, but he is just as deserving of the recognition for his music.  His vocals on “Judas” stylistically fall in the same wheelhouse as Zakk Wylde with Black Label Society and Ozzy Osbourne.  There’s a raw, aggressive power to “Judas” that makes you stand up and take notice from the first note.  Infused with the heavy, driving, arena rock sound of the ‘80s, “Judas” still has a modern vibe that is perfect for Active Rock radio.

 

[24] ASKING ALEXANDRIA – “Alone In A Room”

There are two sides to Asking Alexandria, particularly Danny Worsnop, who runs the gamut between angry growls and melodic singing.  My personal preference is the latter because it allows for the uniqueness of his vocals to shine through.  During his fairly brief departure from Asking Alexandria, Worsnop focused more on his clean vocals with We Are Harlot.  Though the band had their shining moments, it’s understandable why he would choose to return to the band that he helped launch into the top of the Active Rock format.  Although “Alone In A Room” definitely has a bit more edge than the more subdued “Moving On,” this song has the same big hooks and melodic vocals as one of my favorite songs of 2014.

 

[25] JORN – “Man Of The ‘80s”
“Man Of The ‘80s” may be a nostalgic, autobiographical walk down memory lane for Jorn Lande, but it could very well be the theme song for every male Gen X rock music fan.  Being the same age as Lande, this brilliant song, with its poignant lyrics and melodic shredding guitars, took me back in time in a bittersweet way.  It made me long for the simple days of my youth, while reminding me that those days are much further in the rear view mirror than I’d like to admit.  Musically, Lande brings the story to life with his soulful, passionate vocal delivery, beautifully accompanied by bright vocal harmonies.  If a movie was made about Gen X rockers, this song should be first on the soundtrack.

 

 

#26-50

[26] EUROPE – “Walk The Earth”

When you think of Europe, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the infectious hard rock that made them famous in the ‘80s.  Despite their early success, and a song that actually wove itself into the fabric of society in an unexpected way years later, Europe still flies below the radar to some degree.

The title track off of the band’s eleventh studio album shows a maturity and depth that goes beyond what most envision with “hair metal” bands.  This song has depth, soul, and a fair share of mystique.  In fact, if you didn’t know any better, you might think that Joey Tempest had joined yet another incarnation of Deep Purple.

Unlike the heavy synthesizer sound of “The Final Countdown,” the still important keyboards in this song are more about added nuance and layers of depth.  Combined with impressive guitars, the Deep Purple comparisons seem appropriate.

It’s unusual for bands to get heavier as they age, but “Walk The Earth” is prove positive that bands like Europe can evolve in unpredictable ways.  Like Deep Purple’s “Perfect Strangers,” this song has mastered the seamless blend between uplifting and haunting.

If you’re a fan of Europe already, you’ll love this song.  If you have a preconceived notion about what the band has to offer based on the past, I strongly suggest opening your mind and experiencing this new material.

 

[27] HALESTORM – “Dear Daughter”

Lzzy Hale has proven that she can rock as hard as any male vocalist, but that doesn’t mean that she doesn’t have a softer side as well.  For my money, Hale is the most versatile female vocalist in rock today.  She is this generation’s version of Ann Wilson (Heart).

On “Dear Daughter,” Hale shows why she is an inspiration to many women.  In a predominantly male genre, she is (perhaps) the only modern female vocalist who isn’t categorized by her gender.  This message of empowerment is incredibly beautiful.  Hale’s poignant, passionate delivery evokes the same emotions as Pink did back in 2002 with “Family Portrait” (albeit in a more uplifting way).

In a post on Tumblr, Hale discussed what the song means to her…

“I’m hoping that, through this song, I can spread the inspiration and empowerment that has been instilled in me.  Carve your own path, ladies (and little gents too). I’m living proof that nothing in life is impossible.”

The #MeToo movement hadn’t yet started when this song was featured on Music Discovery Monday in 2017.  In light of what has gone on in recent months, it takes on an even greater significance.  As a hard rock fan, I have a profound appreciation of what Hale brings to the table.  As the father of a school-aged daughter, that appreciation grows by leaps and bounds when listening to “Dear Daughter.”  It is purposely slotted in this position with my daughter in mind.

 

[28] GRETA VAN FLEET – “Highway Tune”

This Michigan four-piece rock and roll unit emerged on the scene in 2017, but one listen to “Highway Tune,” and you’ll think that they’ve been around since the ’70s.  In fact, if you didn’t know any better, you’d think that “Highway Tune” was a lost cut from Led Zeppelin’s Houses Of The Holy album.

Some may look at Greta Van Fleet as having a derivative sound, but to me, sounding like Zeppelin in their prime is a major achievement.  What makes things even more impressive is that this band is way too young to ever have experienced Zeppelin during their pinnacle.

“Highway Tune” offers a glimmer of hope that Active Rock radio has a willingness to embrace bands that are rooted in Classic Rock.  That’s good for bands and listeners alike.  There’s no telling what the ceiling is for these newcomers if they are coming out of the gate this strong.

 

[29] WICKED TONGUES – “Feral Gods”

A few years back, Wicked Tongues was featured on Hard Rock Daddy’s Top 100 Hard Rock Songs of 2014.  In the review of “Electric,” the band was likened to Rival Sons – another modern band with a Led Zeppelin influence.  Frontman Mason Betsch was compared to a pair of legendary vocalists (Robert Plant and Ian Gillan).  Fast forward to 2017.  Wicked Tongues is back and better than ever with “Feral Gods” from their latest release, Color Of Attack.

Shades of Led Zeppelin still shine through at times, but the predominant comparison of “Feral Gods” would be to Alter Bridge.  For those keeping score at home, I’ve compared Betsch to Plant, Gillan, and now, Myles Kennedy. Those comparisons alone should have your interest piqued.

Vocalists like Betsch are rare.  Of course, every great vocalist needs a talented band behind them to truly shine, and Betsch has one in the groove-oriented rhythm section of Ryan Shaw (bass) and Elias Berlinger (drums) and the nuanced guitar playing of Michael Conway.

As the saying goes…“anything worth having is worth waiting for.”  Like Alter Bridge, Wicked Tongues put some space between this release and the last, but one listen, and you’ll know that it was well worth the wait.

 

[30] PROPHETS OF RAGE – “Unfuck The World”

A true blending of rock and hip-hop, Prophets Of Rage is a supergroup with an impressive collective resume.  More importantly, this band (featuring members of Rage Against The Machine, Public Enemy, and Cypress Hill) is one with a strong purpose and message.  It’s quite likely that many reading this will not agree with the band’s message, and that’s ok.

Everyone has their own interpretation of what does and does not constitute patriotism, but the one thing that should be agreed upon is the importance of freedom of speech.

With “Unfuck The World,” Prophets Of Rage are not shy about using their freedom of speech to deliver a powerful message, regardless of any repercussions.

We’ve arrived at a time when freedom of speech (specifically freedom of the press) is under attack. When those with a following use their platform to reach the masses with a message, it’s a good thing.  Whether you call this “resistance” or something else, the fact remains that Prophets Of Rage stands for something that actually benefits all Americans.

Some may believe that this is not the proper forum to take a stand, but to me, it is.  Resistance to this message is just another example of freedom of speech. Through the years, Hard Rock Daddy has featured numerous songs about American patriotism, and has shown great deference to the military for their part in protecting the freedoms of all citizens. So, this feels like fair game.

Music is a passionate force. It has the power to capture the mood of a moment in ways that few other things can.  At this moment in time, “Unfuck The World” hits home in a meaningful way.  If you’re a fan of this style of music, this song is a home run (even if you don’t pay attention to the lyrics).  Conversely, you can appreciate the message being delivered here without being a fan of this type of music.

 

[31] METALLICA – “Dream No More”

The latest Metallica album has energized fans from all eras, due in large part to the return to the classic sound that made them fans in the first place.  What’s interesting about “Dream No More” is that it seems to pay homage to other artists more than a journey back in time to their early thrash days.  The riffs have a noticeable classic Black Sabbath sound, and (at times) the haunting vocals are reminiscent of classic Alice In Chains.  It’s no surprise that Active Rock radio has embraced Metallica wholeheartedly, or that they are once again one of the top touring acts in music.

 

[32] THE WILD! – “Livin’ Free”

One of the bands coming out of Canada that I’m most excited about is The Wild!  Since the launch of Hard Rock Daddy, I have discovered numerous bands in a variety of ways, but none as interestingly as my discovery of The Wild!

As I stood on the black carpet of the Epiphone Revolver Music Awards at the end of 2016, one of my longtime friends in the industry walked in with Dylan Kirouac (aka Dylan Villain), the band’s singer/guitarist.  My friend described The Wild! as a band that needed their own category.  Needless to say, I was intrigued.

Much later on that evening (actually early the next morning), I ran into Kirouac at a pizza place in the East Village of NYC.  As he told me the story of the band blowing up their tour bus in the video for “Ready To Roll,” I was instantly hooked without ever hearing a note.

The swagger that once defined rock stars of the ‘70s and ‘80s is in short supply these days, so when you find it in someone like Kirouac, you gravitate towards it (at least I do).  Lest anyone think that The Wild! is some sort of throwback novelty act, this band rocks as hard as any band out there.  With music that is rooted in the past, these Canadian rockers bridge the gap between yesterday and today.

“Livin’ Free” is everything that you want from a larger-than-life arena rock song.  The shuffling bluesy rhythm provides a rock solid foundation to build upon.  With huge hooks and melodies, and just the right amount of swagger, “Livin’ Free” proves that this emerging band would have been just as relevant during the glory days of hard rock as they are today.

 

[33] BOBAFLEX – “Long Time Coming”

Bobaflex introduced their eighth studio release with a cover of Pink Floyd’s “Hey You.”  Because the cover stayed fairly true to the original, it might have been a challenging fit for Active Rock radio.  That is definitely NOT the case with their follow-up single, “Long Time Coming,” which hits you hard from the opening riff, and doesn’t let up (for the most part).  Taking a page out of the prog rock playbook, there are brief, moody vocal harmonies that will remind you of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

Bobaflex doesn’t get nearly the recognition that they deserve for their brilliant, distinct vocal harmonies.  From the softer moments to the sledgehammer power to the haunting vocals, everything just works on this song.  Of course, this is nothing new for Bobaflex.  Now, if only radio would recognize this band’s genius the way that I do…

 

[34] SHALLOW SIDE – “Renegade”

Nearly four decades after it was a radio staple, Shallow Side has done a masterful job of reinventing Styx’s “Renegade,” giving it enough of a modern spin to make it a fit on Active Rock radio.  Not only have these Alabama rockers added a haunting vibe that makes you really think about the meaning behind the lyrics, but they’ve also infused this cover with a southern rock flair that is both unexpected and appreciated.  Shallow Side has kept the bones of the original intact, but has made “Renegade” their own with some surprising twists and turns, and a groove that adds another layer of depth to the song.

 

[35] BLACKTOP MOJO – “Where The Wind Blows”

Hard Rock Daddy has been on the bandwagon of these Texas rockers for a few years now.  Now that the radio world has finally caught on, the time has come for this outstanding band to begin rising up the ranks.

Blending influences that range from their southern roots to grunge, Blacktop Mojo has a unique sound.  The sound that sets them apart from others may very well be the thing that made getting played on Active Rock radio more challenging.  However, once they start gaining traction, their versatility will serve them well.  This is one band that has the potential to bring music fans together from different worlds.

“Where The Wind Blows” opens with a southern, swampy twang before kicking into high gear with a sound that is most reminiscent of Soundgarden.  A heavy bottom, and intense, gritty riffs lay the foundation for Matt James to shine with melodic vocals.  Adding another layer of intrigue is the bluesy shredding by guitarist Ryan Kiefer, which harkens back to the great blues rock bands of the ‘70s and ‘80s.  If radio continues to support Blacktop Mojo, there is no telling how high they can go.

 

[36] SHAMAN’S HARVEST – “The Come Up”

The exposure that modern southern rock artists get on Active Rock radio is somewhat limited, but there are a handful of bands that have managed to break through and become mainstays in the format.  With each release, Shaman’s Harvest continues to cement their position as representatives of southern rock on Active Rock radio.  The band’s distinct sound is due in large part to Nathan Hunt’s soulful vocals.

In addition to being a catchy, foot-stomping tune, “The Come Up” tackles a subject that affects us all…negativity on social media due to the issues that we are dealing with as a nation.  While the subject matter may be serious, the tone of the song is upbeat, and puts you in a good mood.  There is definitely a Shaman’s Harvest sound, but that doesn’t mean that the band is afraid to push the envelope and be a bit adventurous (as they were with their inspired cover of Michael Jackson’s “Dirty Diana”).

 

[37] REVOLVE – “Days Of Grey”

Revolve is back with their latest single, “Days Of Grey,” yet another song by a band that fits right into the Active Rock pocket.  This band deserved much more attention last time around.  Hopefully, programmers will stand up and take notice this time around.

For those who still haven’t discovered this talented rock outfit from Baltimore, MD, you’re in for a treat with “Days Of Grey.”  You’ll find a sense of familiarity because of the vast influences, but the song stands on its own just the same.  From the Tool vibe in the opening riff, to the Shaman’s Harvest soul when the verse kicks in, to the sweet vocal harmonies that are in the same vein as format heavy hitters Shinedown and Sevendust, this song offers a lot for Active Rock fans to love.

The Sevendust connection makes sense since the song was produced by Morgan Rose.  Just when you think that you’ve heard it all, the band kicks it up a notch towards the end of the song with a heavy, Alter Bridge-esque closing.  If Revolve can legitimately be mentioned with some of the top talents that the genre has to offer, it should be a no-brainer for them to gain radio traction like other up-and-comers.

 

[38] KILLER KIND – “Darkest Days”

I initially discovered Killer Kind because I was intrigued by their former band name (Thirteen Reasons).  Regardless of their moniker, this four-piece Philadelphia rock unit kicks ass with a take-no-prisoners, aggressive (yet melodic) sound.

On “Darkest Days,” frontman Marc Adam Kahn has a unique way of making you simultaneously feel uplifted and aggressively defiant.  Even before Kahn enters, the band sets a dramatic tone with haunting strings and a military-esque marching drum beat.  Adrenaline surges as Dizzy Krier delivers intense staccato riffs before Daren Pfeifer brings the thunder with power drumming.  Pfeifer’s rhythm section counterpart (Chip Neely, bass) helps drive the freight train that is Killer Kind.

Interestingly, Killer Kind has a modern sound that would make them a great fit on Active Rock radio (for open-minded programmers), while at the same time, fitting into the melodic power metal subgenre that is pervasive in Europe.

 

[39] DED – “Remember The Enemy”

Ded burst onto the Active Rock scene with the juggernaut single, “Anti-Everything.”  The band’s follow-up single, “Remember The Enemy,” proves that these newcomers are more than just one hit song.  Still present is the piss and vinegar angst of the band’s hit single, blended nicely with a catchy hook and melodic vocals.  The heavy bottom of the song gets your pulse racing, but rather than just hitting you over the head like a sledgehammer, the band shows impressive dynamics and unpredictability.  When they do kick into overdrive, it makes you want to break something, or at the very least, “turn it up to 11” (Spinal Tap reference).  With a sound this powerful, it’s not hard to imagine this band becoming a staple on Active Rock radio going forward.

 

[40] HELLYEAH – “Love Falls”

Octane jumped on this song right away.  Inexplicably, it took Active Rock stations a long time to do the same.  But when they did, the song enjoyed nice traction.

Like previous hits “Moth” and “Hush,” “Love Falls” is a song that blends a slower tempo with the tortured intensity that you expect from Chad Gray and Hellyeah.  What makes this track a bit different is the vibe of the verses, which conjure up memories of classic Type-O Negative.  Gray delivers clever, thought-provoking lyrics with unrivaled passion.  Hellyeah is one of the most distinct sounding modern hard rock bands due in large part to Gray’s vocal and lyrical style.

 

[41] AVATAR – “The King Wants You”

These Swedish metalers consistently deliver interesting and unique music amidst a landscape of sameness in Active Rock.  What makes them so appealing, aside from their outstanding songs, is the willingness to keep redefining themselves with each release.  Their increasing fan base offers proof positive that fans will embrace bands taking chances, and not just sticking to a formulaic approach to songwriting.  Of course, Avatar has the added advantage of being a theatrical marvel, with a presence that transcends the music.

“The King Wants You” has an edgy sound with staccato pacing as the main riff.  When the vocals kick in, memories of classic KISS come rushing to mind.  Until now, the only similarity that I’ve ever seen between Avatar and KISS is the stage makeup.  This is not to say that “The King Wants You” sounds derivative at all.  Quite the contrary!  Like much of their work, this song has nuanced layers of depth that make you appreciate it more with each listen.

 

[42] HEAVY TIGER – “I Go For The Cheap Ones”

Heavy Tiger delivers upbeat, energetic rock and roll with infectious hooks.  In their bio, this female power trio cites KISS and Thin Lizzy as influences.  While you can hear the influences of the aforementioned bands on “I Go For The Cheap Ones,” the artists that come to mind most are Pat Benatar and The Runaways.

Lead vocalist Maja Linn sounds like the second coming of Benatar.  Considering the fact that Benatar was not only the first female rocker that made an impression on me, but one that has remained a personal favorite for nearly four decades, this is high praise.  Linn has a way of perfectly blending sweet melodies with an edgy sound and just the right amount of swagger.

Listening to Heavy Tiger for the first time felt like a trip down memory lane.  That being said, there’s something timeless about this brand of high energy rock and roll.  With memorable riffs, a driving rhythm, and outstanding lead/backing vocals, this is a band that makes you want to hit repeat over and over again.  Their sound is tailor-made for the stage, and if they come anywhere near my area, I will make it a point to see the show.

 

[43] PINK CREAM 69 – “Walls Come Down”

A dozen studio albums over a near three-decade career, and somehow Pink Cream 69 still flies under the radar of most hard rock fans in the United States.  The band is just another example of incredible European talent that exists in (what seems like) a parallel universe to American rock fans.

From their latest album, Headstrong, “Walls Come Down” is a melodic hard rocker that grabs you from the opening guitar riff.  Frontman David Readman’s powerful, bluesy, soulful vocals help build intensity in short order.  Powered by a driving rhythm section, “Walls Come Down” is pure, timeless rock and roll.  Uwe Reitenauer’s leads sound like they come from the lovechild of Eric Clapton and Slash.

“Walls Come Down” has a fresh sound that would have been just as relevant in the ‘70s and ‘80s as it is today.  If you haven’t discovered Pink Cream 69 yet, this is a great place to start.

 

[44] SAVAGE MESSIAH – “Hands Of Fate”

Let the music do the talking is what I imagine the mission statement to be for British rockers Savage Messiah.  I always like to give you more information about the band to go with the music in this forum, but there’s not much to glean from their online bios.  Aside from the fact that they formed a decade ago, I don’t have much to offer (other than the fact that this is true heavy metal in every sense of the word).

“Hands Of Fate” packages the precision aggression of Metallica and Judas Priest, the energy and vocal style of European power metal, and the melodic beauty of ‘80s hard rock.  Throw in some George Lynch-esque shreds for good measure, and you have an idea of what this song has to offer.  If you love pure heavy metal, make sure to check these guys out!

 

[45] STYX – “Gone Gone Gone”

With only one studio album of original material released since the departure of Dennis DeYoung (2003’s Cyclorama), it felt safe to assume that Styx had shifted their focus to becoming a touring band playing classic material.

After a 14-year gap since their last release, you would have thought that it would have leaked out that the band was going to finally be releasing new material.  However, Styx is good at keeping secrets, so when the band released “Gone Gone Gone” as a single in 2017, it was a pleasant surprise to many.

Styx fans weren’t the only ones that were kept in the dark.  Tommy Shaw and longtime collaborator Will Evankovich worked on songs for The Mission (a concept album about a mission to Mars) for some time before ever letting the band in on what they were doing…

“The planets truly aligned for The Mission, and I couldn’t be prouder,” says vocalist/guitarist Tommy Shaw.  “It’s our boldest, most emblematic album since Pieces Of Eight.”

Founding guitarist James “JY” Young continued…

“In the 40^thanniversary year of our release of our biggest selling album of all-time, Grand Illusion, it just seemed truly appropriate to save our new studio album until this year. Needless to say, I’m very excited.”

“Gone Gone Gone” is a melodic, energetic rocker that starts out in high gear and never lets up on the throttle throughout.  Interestingly, the song opens with a bit of southern rock flavor (think Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “I Know A Little”) mixed with the classic organ sound of the ‘70s.  A driving rhythm lays the foundation for bluesy guitars and soaring vocal harmonies.

 

[46] ADRENALINE MOB – “Chasing Dragons”

“Chasing Dragons” is off of Adrenaline Mob’s latest release, We The People.  While the album is about the politically charged environment that we are living in, when I heard the song for the first time, it was on the heels of a tragedy that had nothing to do with politics.

Adrenaline Mob is an outstanding hard rock unit that features one of the most underrated vocalists in Russell Allen.  His vocals are as good as there is in rock today.  Symphony X guitarist Mike Orlando is also underrated when it comes to the masses, though they have a dedicated fan base.  This duo is the foundation of a band that (sadly) has gotten more attention for tragedies than the incredible music that they create.

In 2014, the band was involved in a major motor vehicle accident while on tour with Avenged Sevenfold and Hellyeah.  In 2015, drummer AJ Pero (who had replaced Mike Portnoy) tragically died in his sleep on the tour bus before a gig.  This year, tragedy struck once again when the band’s RV was hit by a semi truck while changing a tire on the side of the road.  Bassist David Z was killed, and the rest of the band suffered serious injury.

The death of David Z hit me particularly hard because we had gotten to know each other after I saw him perform with SOTO.  He and I also shared a mutual friend.  Because of our connection, we exchanged contact information.  However, life got in the way, and we never got back in touch (something that I regret to this day).

Though it’s hard to talk about the band’s music without thinking of tragedy, “Chasing Dragons” is a good introduction into what Adrenaline Mob has to offer.  I honestly don’t know what the future of the band is, but if the past is any indication, you have to believe that they will rise from the ashes once again.

 

[47] MASON HILL – “Now You See Me”

Mason Hill’s origin began when two teenage high school friends had success in the Scottish section of a European battle of the bands competition (beating out 12,000 other bands).  If you are a talented European band with any classic rock connection, you are likely to end up on the radar of Italian record label, Frontiers Music Srl.  Though the label is mostly known for new music from a number of legacy artists, they routinely find great bands like Mason Hill.

The band went through a number of lineup changes before settling on the current one.  The process clearly worked, because these young Glasgow rockers already have a sound that goes well beyond their years.

They’ve been described as “Alter Bridge meets Black Stone Cherry meets Foo Fighters.”  Although the band prefers to simply be thought of as Mason Hill, comparisons to other outstanding bands are a compliment.  Their music has been described as a “mix of classic and modern rock.”  Personally speaking, I’d describe it more as “timeless” or “modern day classic rock.”  Although they prefer to stand on their own, to pique your interest, I’m going to compare the band to some true legends…

While Mason Hill’s sound is shaped by a variety of influences, Scott Taylor’s vocals conjure up memories of Chris Cornell, and to a lesser degree, Robert Plant.  For brief moments during “Now You See Me,” you’d swear that Cornell was providing guest vocals, and tapping into the sound that he created with “Outshined.”  If Mason Hill captures the attention of the masses, it’s unlikely that they will be “outshined” by many up-and-coming rock artists.

 

[48] ICED EARTH – “Black Flag”

There are a few constants to one of the most underrated (at least in the United States) heavy metal bands in the world.  It’s not uncommon for European power metal bands to face hurdles gaining traction in the United States, but Iced Earth is an American band.  Dating back to 1990, when Iced Earth released their debut album, the constants of the band – besides being woefully underrated in their homeland throughout their career – are Jon Schaffer (the only remaining founding member), and a sound that has always been larger than life.

Being the epitome of power metal, it’s easy to see why Iced Earth has played to massive crowds in Europe.  There has always been an appreciation for their brand of music overseas that inexplicably doesn’t exist stateside.  When I first heard the band in the mid-‘90s, I would have bet big money that they would become the next Iron Maiden.  Maybe if they started a decade earlier, they would have been, but I digress…

From early on in their career, Iced Earth has always had a mystical, historical, theatrical quality to their brand of power metal.  And though the names have changed numerous times through the years (aside from Schaffer), the formula has remained steadfast.  Nearly two decades after their first release, their 12^th album (Incorruptible) has a vibe that takes me back to the music that turned me on to the band in the mid-‘90s.

If Iced Earth has managed to fly below your radar, check out “Black Flag,” and then do yourself a favor and dig deeper into the band’s catalog.  Like many of their songs, the lyrics and theatricality of “Black Flag” combine to paint a mental picture that makes it feel like the soundtrack to a movie.

 

[49] SHADOW HORSE – “Weather The Storm”

The last time that I was blown away (within 30 seconds) by a power trio with a unique sound was nearly three decades ago when I heard Out Of The Silent Planet by King’s X for the first time.  It was like déjà vu when I heard “Weather The Storm” for the first time.  Like the video for the song (which feels like a movie), there is a mythical vibe to Shadow Horse that you simply don’t find in many new bands.

“Weather The Storm” is only around four minutes long, but it has the epic feel of Metallica’s “Fade To Black” and the progressive sensibilities of classic Kansas.  Lane Dudley’s vocals, which are a perfect blend of haunting beauty and power, bring the lyrics to life in a vivid way.  Equally impressive are his crunching riffs and soulful leads.  The rhythm section of Pete Bartels (bass) and Tyler Logan (drums) provide such a heavy foundation, that you have to remind yourself that this is actually a power trio.

 

[50] AS LIONS – “Bury My Dead”

Children of highly accomplished people in any field take a risk when they follow in the same footsteps of parents that have achieved great success (especially those that are household names).  I must admit that had I known that Bruce Dickinson’s son Austin was the frontman of As Lions, it would have inspired me to check out the band.  However, I only discovered the familial connection after being instantly drawn to “Bury My Dead” as soon as it came on Octane, and then doing follow-up research about the band.

While Austin followed in his father’s larger-than-life footsteps, he is to be commended for doing his own thing, with his own sound, in a band that doesn’t even remotely resemble Iron Maiden.  As Lions more than stand on their own as a band that blends a variety of influences to develop a sound that is an ideal fit for today’s Active Rock scene.

Many younger bands strive to just become relevant, but the one thing that may have been passed down from one rock generation to another is the desire to be much more than relevant.  From the beginning, the band has had high aspirations.  According to their bio…“We had a mission statement to each other and to the music.  And that was to create the biggest, baddest, hard rock we could, and on an almost cinematic scale.”  If “Bury My Dead” is an indication of what’s to come from As Lions, their goal certainly seems attainable.

 

 

 

#51-75

[51] AMERICAN GRIM – “Idols”

The industrial overtones of Marilyn Manson…the frenetic intensity of Rob Zombie…the swagger of Faith No More…the raw punk edge of The Ramones…the sleaze rock vocal style of Faster Pussycat’s Taime Downe.  Who the hell would ever think to create a rock and roll stew with all of these ingredients?  American Grim…that’s who!  “Idols” may not easily fit into some subgenre, but who cares?  The bottom line is that this song rocks.

Aside from the fact that the album is about “an entire generation of kids being overmedicated, undereducated and mass media manipulated,” there is very little information about the band on their website.  Their “about” section on their Facebook page simply reads…“critics claim they understand.”  I may not understand what that exactly means, but I do understand that Active Rock radio sorely needs bands like this to shake things up and (hopefully) create a ripple effect that reverberates to other new artists.

 

[52] KILLCODE – “Kickin’ And Screamin’”

It’s not unusual for me to scratch my head in disbelief when thinking about the rock scene in America.  I see bands that are admired in places like Europe, South America and Asia, yet they don’t seem to have a home on American rock radio.  Often times, these are legacy acts who enjoyed success in the U.S. back in the day.  However, they are not the only ones who are underappreciated stateside.

Watch the video for “Kickin’ And Screamin’” as you listen to a band that features everything that you loved about the timeless rock and roll of the ‘70s and ‘80s.  The band is playing to frenzied crowds of music fans in the know.  Their sound is tailor-made for a big stage with raucous crowds. It’s modern-day arena rock at its finest.

If the band originated from another country, you could understand why they may not as big in the United States, but Killcode is from NYC. In fact, before I ever heard anything from the band, I met frontman Tom Morrissey hanging outside of small club in the East Village of NYC.  We talked for a bit as he told me about his band that was playing rock festivals around the world.  If you love pure, good ole fashioned rock and roll, make sure to check out Killcode’s anthemic rocker, “Kickin’ And Screamin’.”

 

[53] JACK RUSSELL’S GREAT WHITE – “Sign Of The Times”

I discovered Great White when they opened for Judas Priest in 1984 supporting their debut album.  Time marches on, and like many bands, there was a falling out between the members.  One of the advantages that the singer has when a band breaks up is that they are (often times) thought of as “the sound,” especially when the vocal style is distinct.

Russell has been a favorite vocalist of mine for over 30 years (since that fateful night in 1984).  Although I hate to see tension between bands that helped shape the soundtrack of my youth, I still keep an open mind when they release new music separately.

“Sign Of The Times” lives up to its title.  Lyrically, it’s pretty far from the sexually charged songs of the ‘80s, but musically, it still hits home as much as Great White did back in 1984.  Having grown up with Great White, I’m also at a different place in life, so these lyrics resonate just as much with me (albeit in a different way).

“Sign Of The Times” perfectly taps into the feelings that many Gen Xers feel about longing for simpler times.  Although technology and social media are largely responsible for the existence of Hard Rock Daddy, there is something to be said about the more peaceful, carefree life that I experienced before we all became slaves to the internet.  A “Sign Of The Times” indeed!

 

[54] WAYLAND – “Through The Fire”

If you are a reader of Hard Rock Daddy, you’ve seen Wayland featured on more than one occasion.  This is a band that pushes the envelope with songs that show a great deal of diversity.  The blessing in this approach is that it provides an opportunity to cast a wider net to capture the attention of rock music fans.  The curse in this approach is that getting airplay on Active Rock radio stations can be challenging because the band has a sound that isn’t easily categorized.

While it’s important for bands to get whatever radio exposure that they can, Wayland is in a bit of a different situation.  They are proud road warriors who make their living playing live gigs.  They are also one of the best at making deep connections with their fans, which helps create a loyal following that doesn’t rely on hearing songs on the radio.

That being said, it was great to see “Through The Fire” getting airplay in 2017.  While Wayland is a modern band, their influences (particularly when it comes to vocal harmonies) are rooted in classic rock bands like Queen and Journey.  Impressive, melodic vocal harmonies are on display in “Through The Fire,” which is something that you don’t hear that often on Active Rock radio.

 

[55] PRETTY BOY FLOYD – “We Got The Power”

Pretty Boy Floyd’s career dates back 30 years, back to a time when the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles was all about sex, drugs and rock n’ roll.  Being the quintessential L.A. band, Pretty Boy Floyd was in the right place at the right time (sort of).

Their 1989 debut album, Leather Boys With Electric Toyz, put the band on the map with two hit singles.  Little did they know that bands like theirs would be cast aside with the emergence of grunge.  It wasn’t long after they made their debut that they were without a label, and eventually broke up.

There would be a series of reunions, break-ups, and lineup changes, but the band soldiered on.  Still, their discography is relatively small given their longevity.

Listening to “We Got The Power” takes you back in time to the early days of sleaze and glam rock.  The song has everything that you loved about early Motley Crue and the carefree days of the ‘80s.  Rather than writing a pissed off song about the unfair treatment that they received from the industry (and critics), Pretty Boy Floyd embraces the feel-good vibe that made so many of us love this kind of music in the first place.

Although there is an heir of defiance, “We Got The Power” is more of an uplifting, us-against-the-world anthem.  If you’re a fan of ‘80s metal, you will absolutely love this song!

 

[56] GRUMPYNATORS – “Take The Last Dance With Me”

“Danish Motorbilly” – now there’s a genre that you don’t hear much about (because it was most likely coined by Denmark’s Grumpynators).  When you listen to “Take The Last Dance With Me,” you’ll understand why the band needed to create their own sub-genre of rock.

Although their sound is vastly different, you can hear the influence of the most well-known band coming out of Denmark these days – Volbeat.  The band features former members and crew from Taggy Jones and Volbeat.  They also supported Michael Poulsen and company on tour.

Grumpynators cite a number of artists spanning a wide spectrum as their influences on their Facebook page: Motorhead, Metallica, Twisted Sister, Social Distortion, Megadeth, Volbeat, Ramones and ‘40s/’50s Country and Rockabilly.  A handful of these jump out at you on “Take The Last Dance With Me,” making for a unique, entertaining, high-energy mix that leaves you tapping your feet and moving your head along to the beat.

 

[57] THE DARKNESS – “Happiness”

Those who have a healthy appreciation for irony will absolutely love this song!  The band name – The Darkness…the song – “Happiness”…but the irony doesn’t end there.  This upbeat, feel-good song has a distinct “summer song” vibe.  In fact, the song actually references the summer directly (even though it was released on December 1^st).

Is this deliberate irony, a band that marches to the beat of their own drum, a nice change-of-pace in the winter, or the work of mad geniuses who realize that the song grabs your attention more when it’s out of season?  I suspect that it’s a combination of more than one of these factors.

Regardless of their intention, the end result is the same…the best summer song of the winter of 2017/2018!  Making the song even more enjoyable is the brilliant animated video that shows the band’s sense of humor.

Years from now, I suspect that this song will become a summer staple alongside classics like Y&T’s “Summertime Girls”and David Lee Roth’s “California Girls” (to name a few).

 

[58] AVENGED SEVENFOLD – “Malagueña Salerosa (La Malagueña)”

A Mexican folksong by Avenged Sevenfold???  YES!  This is the band’s first-ever Spanish-language release.  There was a plan to record the song in both English and Spanish, but ultimately, the band chose to honor the original by only doing it in Spanish.  M. Shadows deserves a lot of credit for naturally pulling this off, given that he doesn’t speak the language.  He worked every day for weeks with a Spanish-speaking friend on pronunciation, even going so far as to bring him into the studio to help produce the vocals.

Aside from the fat bass sound, you wouldn’t believe that this is Avenged Sevenfold early on in the song.  M. Shadows sings melodically over flamenco guitars.  As the song builds, A7X’s distinct style comes through, but never becomes overpowering.  The beauty of the Spanish guitar and the traditional horns make you feel like you’re in a Mexican cantina.

Most bands would get no consideration from Active Rock radio with a song like this, but A7X has earned enough goodwill in the format to warrant airplay.  It may not be for everyone, but if you listen with an open mind, you may discover a taste for a style of music that you aren’t usually exposed to.

 

[59] CHICKENFOOT – “Divine Termination”

Like most classic rock acts, this supergroup has no natural place on radio in the United States.  It makes you wonder when the powers that be will wake up and realize that they are missing out on some incredible music.

For those who are unfamiliar with Chickenfoot, the band features a partial Van Halen reunion between Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony.  The duo is joined by legendary guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani, and Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers fame.  The lineup alone should be enough to intrigue any rock music fan, but this band is much deeper than a collection of superstars with impressive resumes.  Chickenfoot has a chemistry that rivals established bands like Van Halen and Red Hot Chili Peppers, even though they have released only two studio albums since 2009.

Although “Divine Termination” is a new song, unfortunately, it is not part of a new studio album.  It is the only new track on the band’s most recent release, Best + Live (which features over 90 minutes of live music from the band).

When a band is this good, you always want more, but you take what you can get.  “Divine Termination” is another in a long line of outstanding songs from a supergroup that, despite being loaded with famed members, manages to fly below the radar for many.

 

[60] RANDOM HERO – “The Impossible”

Random Hero believes in positive messaging.  “The Impossible” goes beyond positive into the motivational realm, from the lyrics to the uplifting vibe.  Though they consider themselves Christian Rock, they do not believe in preaching.  If your beliefs are similar, you may glean something different from their lyrics than those with a different belief system.  In fact, if you didn’t know about the band, you could easily interpret “The Impossible” as being written about a specific purpose, rather than a higher being.  For all I know, that is the case.  And that’s the point.  Random Hero can make you feel the song even if you have no idea what inspired it.

Although my personal preference is for melodic singing over growling, I can appreciate a growl (or scream) used for accent.  That is exactly how Random Hero uses it.  Because the song has such a powerful melody, with nice harmonies, the little bit of angst that is added through timely growls is something that you look forward to.  Depending on your age (and if you listen with headphones), you may hear some interesting nuances that remind you of music from another era and genre.

 

[61] STONE TEMPLE PILOTS – “Meadow”

After an exhaustive search that felt like forever, Stone Temple Pilots finally revealed Jeff Gutt as the new lead singer.  The announcement was made in coordination with the release of “Meadow” (the band’s first single together).  With all of the anticipation for new music from the band, it’s understandable why radio has jumped on this one early.  The song itself sounds like classic STP.  Gutt has a similar vibe to Scott Weiland, with just a hint of Josh Todd (Buckcherry).

While there was a lot of anticipation to finally hear new music from the band, what they delivered was not a big diversion from what we’ve come to expect from STP.  There’s nothing wrong with that.  The formula for their sound wasn’t broken; their previous lead singers both were.

After dealing with the roller coaster ride that was Weiland, and the departure of Chester Bennington (before he committed suicide), you have to imagine that what the band is hoping for at this point is “normal.”  Based on the comfort of the sound of “Meadow,” it seems that they may be on the right track, provided that Gutt provides the complementary vocals without the drama and demons that came with STP’s two previous frontmen.

 

[62] THE PROFESSIONALS – “Rewind”

Def Leppard guitarist Phil Collen is a guest on “Rewind,” the latest single by The Professionals.  This band was originally formed from the ashes of the Sex Pistols by Paul Cook and Steve Jones 35 years ago.  Although Jones is not fully participating in the reunion (he plays on three tracks on the band’s upcoming album), a number of well-known guitarists appear as guests on What In The World.

The beauty of “Rewind” is in the simplicity.  It’s as if the song actually hit the “rewind button” and traveled back to a more unassuming time.  “Rewind” is definitely rooted in punk, but the upbeat vibe makes for some outstanding straight forward rock and roll.  Though they’re more melodic, and not nearly as over-the-top, the gang vocals have the same gin-soaked, happy hour feel as Dropkick Murphys.

 

[63] HELL OR HIGHWATER – “I Want It All”

It’s not uncommon these days for musicians from established bands to step out front and work on projects as a lead vocalist, giving them a chance to showcase another side of their talent.  Such is the case with Hell Or Highwater, which is fronted by Atreyu drummer Brandon Saller.

If you’re expecting to hear a variation of Atreyu’s sound, you’ll be surprised at what this band has to offer.  “I Want It All” begins with a distorted stoner rock groove before Saller enters with charismatic soulful vocals.  As the song builds, Saller taps into the same type of energy and angst that Adam Gontier displays with Saint Asonia.  At times, you even get a hint of Chris Cornell from the ‘90s Soundgarden days.

“I Want It All” is a perfect fit for Active Rock radio.  It may be the Atreyu connection that helps grease the skids for Hell Or Highwater with programmers, but they are more than deserving of airplay in their own right.

 

[64] BLACKLITE DISTRICT – “Living In A Nightmare”

“When I think of the fame and I think of the game, I’m going to play the same game that I’ve always played.”  The hook in Blacklite District’s “Living In A Nightmare” is not only infectious, but also an autobiographical truth as far as I can tell (at least when it comes to getting radio airplay).  There are a few ways to play “the game” if you’re an artist…

You can hope that your fan base grows so large that radio has no choice but to pay attention to you.  Of course, very few have gone that route without having a decent promotion budget behind them.  You can tailor your sound to try and compete with many other similar sounding bands and battle for whatever spins you can grab.  Or, you can throw caution to the wind and play the game with your own rulebook.  Blacklite District absolutely belongs in the latter category.  Their distinct Active Rock sound is heavily influenced by other genres ranging from electronic to hip-hop to alternative.

“Living In A Nightmare” has a definite edge to it that makes it a good fit for Active Rock radio.  Like many other artists in the format, the band features two distinct vocal styles (courtesy of Kyle Pfeifer and Roman James).  However, unlike most other artists, Blacklite District doesn’t rely upon one of the vocalists handling “clean” vocals, while the other growls in a manner that is often times indecipherable from one band to the next.

James’ straight-forward, emotive rock vocals are perfectly complemented by Pfeifer’s electronic, hip-hop style.  Aggression meets melody on “Living In A Nightmare” as Blacklite District continues to play the game by their own rules.

 

[65] HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD – “California Dreaming”

This is not your “Mama’s” or your “Papa’s” “California Dreaming.”  If you don’t get the reference, click here.  If you do get the reference, you’ll know right away that the song of the same name (which came out over 50 years ago) was a sweet homage to the “Golden State.”  Hollywood Undead’s “California Dreaming” also features a catchy, melodic hook, but the similarities end there.

This song explores the darker side of California living with an adrenaline-pumping intensity that hits you like a runaway freight train.  When it comes to blending rap and hard rock, for my money, there isn’t anyone better than Hollywood Undead on the scene these days.  Although the band always features a hybrid of the two genres, their music is anything but predictable or formulaic. This is a band that pushes the envelope, and continues to evolve with each release.

 

[66] L.A. GUNS – “The Flood’s The Fault Of The Rain”

The latest album from L.A. Guns reunites Tracii Guns and Phil Lewis (they last recorded together 15 years ago).  This bluesy, thought-provoking song is about the abuse of women, a timely coincidence that the band couldn’t possibly have predicted given the current #MeToo movement.  Despite the serious subject matter, if you’re a fan of classic L.A. Guns, this song (from the band’s latest album, The Missing Peace) is a bit of joyful nostalgia.  It is highly recommended that you watch the creative video for the song as you listen.

 

[67] WITHIN REASON – “Invictus”

As I listened to “Invictus,” a number of modern artists came to mind (all of them among my favorites).  You can hear the southern flavor of Black Stone Cherry and Shaman’s Harvest mixed with the radio-friendly melodies and hooks of bands like Shinedown, Pop Evil, and Hinder.  And, if you’re old enough to remember the classic AOR days of Styx, Journey, and Kansas, you may even get a bit nostalgic listening to the arena rock riffs.  Reading the band’s bio, you get the feeling that radio play (while beneficial) is not what defines the band.  Their music has been featured in films, video games, and TV commercials.

“Invictus” may have some familiar attributes, but it doesn’t sound like a clone of any artist in particular.  If you ask me, radio needs more artists like Within Reason to freshen up playlists that tend to become stale with so many similar sounding artists.

 

[68] KEE OF HEARTS – “A New Dimension”

Not surprisingly, Kee Of Hearts (featuring former Europe guitarist Kee Marcello) is another Frontiers Music Srl release.  Under the direction of producer Alessandro Del Vecchio, Kee Of Hearts is a melodic AOR project that takes you on a journey back in time.  With big hooks and passionate vocals courtesy of Tommy Heart (Fair Warning), Kee Of Hearts straddles the fence between German melodic hard rock and AOR bands like Journey and Styx.  If you’re a fan of the classic arena rock sound, make sure to check out the band’s single, “A New Dimension.”

 

[69] SLAVES – “I’d Rather See Your Star Explode”

There’s no shortage of aggressive music these days.  More often than not, the heavier bands tend to have vocalists whose style helps to create a wall of sound.  Sometimes (to me), it feels like white noise.  The bands that can add color are the ones that intrigue me most.  Slaves definitely falls into that category.

Usually you have to wait for a violent thunderstorm to pass before you can enjoy the calming effect and beauty of a rainbow.  With Slaves, you get to experience the thunderstorm and rainbow simultaneously.  The intensity of “I’d Rather See Your Star Explode” is undeniable, so much so that you expect to hear at least some growling, if not an abundance of it.  Instead, what you get is an unexpected, refreshing beam of light from the voice that is Jonny Craig.

Craig’s voice doesn’t sound like anything else in rock music, which makes it stand out even more.  With a soulful, passionate quality, his vocals would seem to be more at home in an R&B or pop setting.  Not the formulaic, crappy pop that litters the airwaves, mind you…but rather the pop that makes you stand up and take notice of one’s vocal range (like Bruno Mars).  This unique sound may seem to be out of left field, but it’s Craig’s foundation as a choir singer (and admitted influence of artists like Boyz II Men) that makes it understandable.

“I’d Rather See Your Star Explode” is incredibly catchy and beautiful, but at the same time, it’s powerful and intense.  What’s most important is that it’s a great, unique song that is starting to gain traction on SiriusXM’s Octane.

 

[70] NO RESOLVE – “Love Me To Death”

“Love Me To Death” (off of No Resolve’s debut album) has a similar vibe to Hinder’s “How Long,” albeit with a bit more angst to it in the vein of Breaking Benjamin and early Three Days Grace.  It’s not uncommon for Active Rock songs to tackle the subject of addiction.  No Resolve’s spin on the subject is not of the drug variety though; it’s about a relationship.  With clever lyrics and a great hook, this stands out as something different (in a good way).

 

[71] BLACKJACK FALLS (f. JAKE LIVGREN) – “Winter Approaches”

Outstanding musicianship with depth and nuance is not something that is commonplace in modern hard rock these days.  Too many artists create music that tries to capture a sound that fits on radio, which is understandable.  Things are tougher than ever for up-and-coming bands these days, so you need any edge that you can get.

When a band like Blackjack Falls writes a song like “Winter Approaches,” which offers up the musicality of the bands of yesteryear, it is something to be appreciated.  This song has a mature, soulful sound that is rooted in classic rock, but still maintains its uniqueness.

Even though the band’s bio says that they’ve been writing, performing and playing together, it also says that they were formed in October of 2016.  Their sound is impressive for a band that hasn’t been together for much longer than a year.

“Winter Approaches” features Jake Livgren (nephew of Kansas’ Kerry Livgren) on vocals.  Clearly, musicianship runs in the family.  Livgren’s soaring vocals perfectly complement this tightknit unit.

 

[72] SNAKECHARMER – “Follow Me Under”

The band is called Snakecharmer, but if you were to name the band after the story of the members, “Unsung Heroes” would be an appropriate moniker to use.  Reason being…it’s quite possible that you don’t know the names of the incredibly talented members that make up the band, but you do know the impressive list of artists that they are associated with.  There are far too many artists to mention in this forum, but if you’d like to learn more about the background of each of the six members, check out the band’s website.

Though this sextet is only on their second album, the band’s collective experience dates back decades, so it’s no surprise that their sound is rooted in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

“Follow Me Under,” the latest single from Snakecharmer’s sophomore release (Second Skin), is everything that you love about classic rock.  At times, the sound will remind you of Deep Purple’s mid-‘80s reunited lineup; at others, you’ll feel the uplifting vibe of songs like “Never Been Any Reason” (Head East).  Classic rock is one way to describe this song that gets better with each listen.  Timeless is probably a more fitting description though.

Can you classify a band like this as a supergroup if the members are not well-known as individuals?  Based on talent, songwriting ability and resume, I’d say the answer to the question is a resounding YES!

 

[73] COLDSPELL – “Call Of The Wild”

Sweden is the home base for a number of great hard rock and metal bands that don’t get the attention that they deserve in America.  Aside from the fact that there is just so much music out there these days, there isn’t really a radio format to expose melodic rock bands in the U.S.  Even bands with a lengthy history don’t necessarily have an outlet to showcase new material.

Coldspell released their first album in 2009, but one listen to “Call Of The Wild,” and you’d think that their formation took place at least two decades prior.  Although the band’s sound is distinct, you can hear some very cool influences that instantly draw you in and make you take notice.  The more I listened to the track, the more I started hearing hints of other great rockers from Queensryche to Yngwie Malmsteen to Dokken, and at times, shades of Black Sabbath.  Regardless of the influences that you may hear, one thing is clear, this is a powerful unit with a sound that makes you want to dig deeper into what they have to offer.

 

[74] EVE TO ADAM – “Tongue Tied”

Many of today’s current hard rock acts seem to tailor their sound specifically to get airplay on Active Rock radio.  Eve To Adam has already been embraced by the format (although not nearly as much as they deserve), so it would be understandable for them to rely upon the sound that got them noticed in the first place.  To their credit, the band continues to reinvent themselves, writing music that clearly is born more out of passion than a desire for radio spins.

“Tongue Tied” stands out from typical Active Rock tracks because it embraces the grittier, sleazier sound of Guns N’ Roses, the alternative vibe of classic Stone Temple Pilots and bluesy guitar solos that harken back to the days of Eric Clapton with Cream.  Yet somehow, “Tongue Tied” has a current flavor that would make it a standout track on Active Rock radio.  In a format that sometimes feels like it’s on autopilot, we need more bands like Eve To Adam to push the envelope and rise above the din.

 

[75] SEPTEMBER MOURNING – “20 Below”

September Mourning is the type of visual band that would have been a big hit back in the MTV days.  The video for “20 Below” is a cinematic experience that goes way beyond the song.  This is not to say that the song doesn’t stand on its own; it absolutely does.

Even without the video, the song has a theatrical vibe that makes it stand out amongst other female-fronted hard rock acts today.  The sex appeal and mystique that September exudes in the video shines through in “20 Below” (even without visual aids).  Her stirring vocals offer a nice blend of power and beauty.

While September captures your attention most, the rest of the hard-hitting band creates an ideal canvas for her to paint mental images with her unique style.  This is a band on the rise that should continue to build upon their dedicated fan base as more rock music fans discover them.

 

 

 

#76-100

[76] FIFTYWATT FREIGHT TRAIN – “Hellbent Halo”

They’ve got swagger.  They’ve got groove.  They’ve got grit.  They’ve got just the right amount of dirt and sleaze to them to remind you of the glory days of hard rock.  They’ve got a southern rock undercurrent that ties everything together.  They are Fiftywatt Freight Train…and they fuckin’ rock!

“Hellbent Halo” is everything that you love about rock and roll, but don’t find often enough in one package like this.  I defy you to crank this up and not tap your feet and bob your head to this gin-soaked anthem that makes you feel alive.  From the aggressive riffs and gang vocals to the more seductive, moody moments, everything just works perfectly together.

If these Carolina rockers come to town, you can bet your ass that I’ll be there.  If ever there was a band whose sound is meant for the stage, it’s Fiftywatt Freight Train.  Jump on this bandwagon (or freight train as the case may be) early!

 

[77] CHEAP TRICK – “Long Time Coming”

After a 40-year career, and a long overdue induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cheap Trick has nothing left to prove.  With such an illustrious history, it would be understandable if the band decided to enjoy the fruits of their labor.  However, based on the lyrics of the band’s latest single, “Long Time Coming,” Robin Zander and company still have a passion for being on the road…

“I’m in the middle of something…and it sure feels good.  It makes me feel better…do I look like I should?  Get me on a tour bus…or put me on a plane.  Take me to the city…before I go insane.”

Cheap Trick seems to be enjoying a renaissance of sorts, much to the delight of longtime fans.  “Long Time Coming” is a reminder that this band is still a force to be reckoned with in modern times.  Although they may never get the radio attention that they once did, that is more of an indictment of the state of radio than the quality of their music.

The first single off of the band’s 18^th studio album (We’re All Alright!), is a blending of the classic Cheap Trick sound with a modern feel.  Rick Neilsen’s guitar playing is as good as ever, and his son (Daxx) adds a boost of adrenaline with his powerful drumming.

 

[78] PAPA ROACH – “American Dreams”

I find it important to take a moment to mourn the passing of fallen soldiers from time to time.  I am grateful for the sacrifices that they have made to protect our way of life.

These days, I can’t help but wonder what these American heroes would think about what the country has become.  They fought for freedoms that are currently in jeopardy because of politicians that are driven more by self-interest than the good of the people that they are supposed to represent.

Papa Roach directly addresses the state of the country in “American Dreams”…“we’re tearing down the white picket fences…something’s wrong here (or so it seems), cause I’m not sleeping in American dreams…American lies…we’re trying to see with the smoke in our eyes.” 

Although the song has an uplifting, melodic vibe, the message contained within is a powerful reminder to see things for what they are, which is not necessarily a rosy picture.

Even though we’re a country divided sharply by our differences, the one thing that should bind us together is an appreciation for those who sacrificed their lives for others.

 

[79] SEETHER – “Betray And Degrade”

If there was going to be a modern rock band that reminded you of Nirvana, you might expect it to be Foo Fighters due to the Dave Grohl connection.  However, it’s Seether that actually feels like the evolution of Nirvana if Kurt Cobain was still alive today.  The influence of Nirvana isn’t always obvious with Seether songs, especially when Shaun Morgan is delivering his poetic verses in a more subdued manner.  Morgan’s vocals are one of the most distinct in the genre today, but at times during “Betray And Degrade,” you can almost feel the ghost of Cobain singing along.  What makes Seether so interesting is their ability to go from zero to sixty and back again effortlessly, much like Cobain and company did with their breakout song, “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”

 

[80] INGLORIOUS – “Change Is Coming”

Change is inevitable.  Sometimes it’s good, sometimes not so much, but either way, it’s the reality that we all live with.  About 25 years ago, a change happened in the rock music world that relegated supremely talented musicians to a virtual scrapheap.  Back then, angst was all the rage.  The stage that once was reserved for rock stars was open to a group of musicians that looked like they could have just as well been in the audience.

Thankfully, these days, the change that seems to be happening is a new appreciation for a classic, bluesy, hard rock sound.  There aren’t many that are positioned better for this resurgence than British rockers, Inglorious.

The band, which features a heavy groove, bluesy guitars, and the soaring vocals of frontman Nathan James, is a reminder that classic never goes out of style.  Inglorious is modern day classic rock at its best.  If you’re a fan of bands like Deep Purple, Whitesnake, Led Zeppelin, and Badlands, make sure to check out “Change Is Coming,” and then dig deeper into whatever music you can find from the band.

 

[81] GREAT WHITE – “Big Time”

Great White has always embraced the rock and roll lifestyle in a fun way.  Current frontman Terry Ilous has a lot of the same swagger as Jack Russell, and even adds in some of the flair of David Coverdale for good measure on the band’s song “Big Time.”

Despite a well-publicized falling out with original frontman Jack Russell, Great White has been going strong for over 30 years.  On a personal note, this is the first band that I ever saw live without knowing any of their music, and became an instant fan.  The day after seeing the band open for Judas Priest in 1984, I ran out to buy their debut album.  I’ve been a fan ever since.

“Big Time” takes me back in time to the arena days.  The song actually explores the origins of the life of a rock star.  It could just as well serve as an inspiration for anyone pursuing dreams of passion beyond music.

There’s a nostalgic feeling to the song for me, because the way that the “Big Time” is defined by up-and-coming bands these days is drastically different than what the phrase meant back in the day.  Still, it’s another in a long line of great, bluesy rock songs from a band that has been a part of my life since I was a teenager.

 

[82] NIGHT RANGER – “Somehow Someway”

The opening notes of Night Ranger’s “Somehow Someway” feature a classic Motley Crue vibe before transitioning back into the more melodic, AOR sound that they have become known for since they began 35 years ago.  Nicely blended into the song is a Journey influence on some of the vocal runs and the harmonies.  It’s fitting that L.A. is mentioned in the song, as it was once the hub for melodic hard rock.  Some people may classify this feel-good song as “nostalgic,” but I’d prefer to call it timeless.  If you have an appreciation for musicianship, melody and harmonies, you’re going to love this track as much as you did the early work that turned you on to Night Ranger in the first place.

 

[83] GOLDFINGER – “Put The Knife Away”

Back in 1996, when Goldfinger made their debut, the hard rock music scene was in a transitional period.  The band made an instant connection with numerous rock fans when they released their single, “Here In Your Bedroom.”  Although it’s Goldfinger’s biggest hit, the band was more than a one-hit wonder.  Their entire debut album was one of my favorites of 1996.  I still remember being blown away by their high-energy performance in NYC that year.

The band would have a few more notable songs in the late ‘90s / early 2000s, but didn’t make much noise after that.  After nearly a decade, Goldfinger has finally reemerged with their latest album, The Knife.

“Put The Knife Away” is a frenetically-paced, high-octane, melodic punk rocker that takes me back in time.  Like “Here In Your Bedroom,” this is a song that I’ve listened to several times over.  It gets better with each listen.

 

[84] RANCID – “Say Goodbye To Our Heroes”

Rancid made an impact early on in their career with songs like “Ruby Soho,” “Time Bomb,” and “Salvation.”  In 2017, Rancid released their ninth studio album, Trouble Maker.  In true punk fashion, the album (which features 17 songs) is just over 36 minutes long; only one song even breaks the 3-minute mark.

“Say Goodbye To Our Heroes” is only a little over two minutes long, but it seems appropriate given that it’s about paying homage to the band’s punk rock heroes.  As you would expect, this song is raw and gritty, with gang vocals that could just as well be a group of friends in a bar singing along at happy hour.  The beauty of the song is in the simplicity and the authentic connection to listeners.

 

[85] BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION – “Collide”

One of the more positive trends in hard rock today is the emergence of young bands that are rooted in the classic blues rock of yesteryear.  It doesn’t have to be old to be classic.  That’s true of newer bands and rock legends alike.

Black Country Communion is a supergroup of seasoned veterans consisting of vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath), blues guitarist extraordinaire Joe Bonamassa, drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin, Foreigner) and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater).  Unlike many modern supergroups that release one album and move on, BCC has now released four studio albums since they began.

Though the band was formed in 2009, and the members have all worked on other projects during that time period, BCC sounds like a band that has been together for several decades.  Given the members of the band, it’s not surprising that their sound is in the realm of Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple.

“Collide” is a powerful, mystical, blues rock song that just as well could have been released in the ‘70s.  This is high flattery, not an indication that the song is dated sounding at all.  If anything, it is timeless rock and roll performed to precision by supremely talented musicians.  Some people may find the song nostalgic.  Personally speaking, I find it inspiring that outstanding new music is still being released by artists of this caliber.

 

[86] BLACK STAR RIDERS – “Dancing With The Wrong Girl”

It’s hard to listen to Black Star Riders and not be taken back to the glory days of Thin Lizzy.  Although the band has stood on its own since 2012, the creative forces behind the music are directly connected to Thin Lizzy.  Only guitarist Scott Gorham remains from the ‘70s, but vocalist Ricky Warwick is so similar to Phil Lynott that you can’t help but think of Thin Lizzy when you listen to Black Star Riders.  That’s a tribute, not a criticism.

This band, who released their third studio album together in 2017, is a throwback to the days of timeless rock and roll.  Much like AC/DC, Black Star Riders can be counted on to deliver music with such a distinct, consistent style, that you know it’s them from the first note.  “Dancing With The Wrong Girl” is a perfect example of what you can expect from a band that takes you back in time in a beautifully nostalgic way.

 

[87] INVIDIA – “Feed The Fire”

Invidia’s “Feed The Fire” is a killer tune with a video to match.  Unlike many hard rock and metal videos (which take place in an urban alley, an abandoned warehouse or a desert), the video for “Feed The Fire” helps to bring the story to life in a cinematic way, as you focus on the band members and the special effects.  Think of the darkness of Criminal Minds colliding with the mind trip of Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas.

Musically, Invidia stands out as something different, which is intentional.  The only rule that this Las Vegas band subscribes to is that there are no rules when it comes to writing music.  In fact, each song is a creative journey unto itself…no preconceived notions of what the band should sound like.  No writing the same stuff that everyone in the band already liked either.  Just the freedom to mix ideas and styles and let the music flow naturally.

Too often these days, bands focus their attention on creating a sound that will appeal to radio, but it’s a losing battle.  With a few exceptions, the bands with the most money and cache still dominate the airwaves, leaving all the rest to fight for a small piece of the pie that barely moves the needle anyway.

One listen to “Feed The Fire” and you’ll know that this band – with their devil-may-care approach – has naturally created what many bands consciously strive for.

If you had to compare “Feed The Fire” to any current hard rock act, Hellyeah is the first band that comes to mind.  Like Hellyeah, Invidia can punch you in the mouth with aggression one moment, and mesmerize you with haunting melodies the next.

 

[88] DEEP PURPLE – “Johnny’s Band”

Since their debut in the late ‘60s, Deep Purple has always had a more serious, bluesy feel, even when they were using double entendre in songs like “Knockin’ At Your Backdoor.”  From the band’s 20^th studio release comes “Johnny’s Band”, a song with a more lighthearted feel than what we’ve come to expect from the band.  Even the video is a bit more playful than usual.

Like Bad Company did over 40 years ago with “Shooting Star,” this song takes you on a nostalgic musical journey about the career of a musician named Johnny.  Unlike that Johnny (who died tragically), this one seems to be the personification of every arena musician who is now playing to smaller crowds than they did in their heyday.

Musically, even the upbeat, melodic riff takes you back to the ‘70s, with a sound that is reminiscent of “Free Ride” by Edgar Winter Group.  The “x-factor” in the song is Ian Gillan’s vocals, which instantly make you think of Deep Purple.  Otherwise, the diversion from the band’s usual sound might have you questioning who you’re listening to.  If you’ve followed the career path of so many legendary musicians, you’ll appreciate the story being told here.

 

[89] PUNKY MEADOWS (f. FRANK DIMINO & FELIX ROBINSON) – “Lost And Lonely”

They were big, but they should have been much bigger.  The story of Angel feels like something out of a movie.  Discovered by Gene Simmons in a club, they were eventually signed to KISS’ label, Casablanca Records.

Dressed in all white, they were the yin to the yang that was KISS (who wore all black).  Even though Simmons and company are the ones known for wearing makeup, Angel were the androgynous ones.

To get the full appreciation of the Hollywood feel to the band’s story, make sure to watch the video when listening to “Lost And Lonely.”  Knowing the backstory, it feels like the end of a movie where the band finally reaches their potential decades after their breakup.

To be clear, this is NOT an Angel song.  It’s merely a reunion of key members of the band back together for a glorious moment in time.  Meadows’ guitar work is everything that you love about the good old days when guitar heroes were all the rage.  Frank Dimino’s vocals sound like they are frozen in time.  Four decades after their pinnacle, Dimino’s vocals make it feel like this could be an unreleased Angel song from the vault.

Even if you’re not familiar with Angel, make sure to check this song out if you’re a fan of bands like Journey and other ‘70s/‘80s AOR artists.

 

[90] STATION – “All You Need Is A Heartbeat”

There was a time when the New York City hard rock and metal scene was thriving.  Though many of the clubs that were once a home for the genre are nothing more than a memory today, based on my personal experience, I see a resurgence happening with some really talented bands.  NYC’s melodic rock band Station definitely falls into that category.

As you listen to the band’s single “All You Need Is A Heartbeat,” you are taken on a journey back in time to the feel-good days of the ‘80s, when the world just seemed like a happier place to live.  While it may seem like I’m waxing nostalgic for days gone by, it’s only because the sound of that era has never lost its luster for me.

In a world that feels too busy and (often times) less joyful, Station is a reminder that life doesn’t always have to be so serious.  It’s refreshing to hear such an upbeat song with a beautifully infectious hook.

 

[91] SANTA CRUZ – “Young Blood Rising”

Finish rockers Santa Cruz have found a way to take the foundation of classic melodic metal and build on top of it with a modern sound.  At times, “Young Blood Rising” will remind you of the early days of Skid Row.  Other times, you’ll feel like the band that shares a name with a city in California is paying homage to GNR with aggressive riffs and piss-and-vinegar vocals.  But it doesn’t stop there.

If you listen to the nuance of the song, you’ll be reminded of Avenged Sevenfold’s “Hail To The King.”  And then there are the gang vocals that gives the song a classic arena rock sound.

The guitar shredding is fast and furious.  The dynamics of “Young Blood Rising” are like a roller coaster that seamlessly blends moments of calm with white knuckle fury.  For the sake of hard rock music fans everywhere, we can only hope that the title of this song is prophetic, and that these “young bloods” continue to rise to the top of the genre.

 

[92] GARDEN OF THORNS – “If This Is The End”

“Thought provoking hip hop through modern rock” is how Garden Of Thorns describe themselves.  Though some may be tempted to label their brand of rap/rock as Nu Metal, their description is accurate.  This independent unit out of Dallas, TX has delivered something new, different, and interesting with “If This Is The End.”  The song features a catchy chorus that hooks you in with a rock flair, while the verses tell the story with a rap style that is reminiscent of Linkin Park’s “In The End.”  However, the rap influence in this song is more pronounced.  Fans of rap rock and Nu Metal should appreciate this song.  Those (like me) who are also fans of Eminem, Biggie, and the like will enjoy this even more.

 

[93] DOROTHY – “Down To The Bottom”

Although Dorothy Martin is the captivating figure that your eyes and ears are drawn to, like Van Halen, Dio, Dokken and others, Dorothy is a band.  And a kickass band at that.  While Martin’s vocals would shine in any situation, the chemistry that she and the rest of the band has is what makes these up-and-comers special.

If you’re a fan of classic rock, it’s likely that you are thankful for the resurgence of the classic rock sound of the ‘70s.  More specifically, the ripple effect that Led Zeppelin has created with bands that probably weren’t even born when John Bonham passed away.

“Down To The Bottom” is straight ahead blues rock that has the mystique and larger-than-life quality that defined Zeppelin back in the day.  Martin’s vocals bring to mind another powerful influence…Janis Joplin.  Zeppelin meets Joplin…how could you go wrong?

 

[94] THE AGONIST – “Take Me To Church”

Once fronted by Arch Enemy’s Alissa White-Gluz, this five-piece metal unit out of Montreal, Canada toyed with the idea of replacing White-Gluz with a frontman after her departure in 2014, but quickly realized that it would change the dynamic of the band.  After an extensive search, the band discovered American vocalist Vicky Psarakis on YouTube, and the rest is history.

For the time being, Psarakis doesn’t get the kind of recognition that some of the more high-profile women of hard rock like Lzzy Hale and Taylor Momsen get, but that’s more a matter of exposure than talent.  Her stellar, rangy vocals on the band’s cover of “Take Me To Church” showcase a gritty edge, a surprising sweetness, and a touch of evil with tasteful growls that rival In This Moment’s Maria Brink.

All of the aforementioned bands have more to offer than just a commanding frontwoman, and The Agonist is no exception.  With a driving, high-energy, dynamic sound, this band kicks ass from the first note to the last on “Take Me To Church.”  Hopefully, this incredibly catchy song is the one that helps the band breakthrough to an even bigger audience with deserved radio play.

 

[95] KELEN HELLER – “Cut Me”

Standing out in a crowded field of hard rock acts is no easy task these days.  Aside from having a familiar sounding name (a play on Helen Keller), the band also distinguishes themselves through their mission “to inspire, uplift, and stir the emotion in our listeners.”

There are many faith-based bands out there, but most are Christian.  Kelen Heller distinguishes themselves with a more inclusive spiritual approach that welcomes everyone.  On their website, the band asks “listeners to join them on an unspoken type of fellowship: a type of non-denominational, judgment-free collective.”

When it comes to image, it’s not uncommon for bands to wear some kind of makeup or costume, but in Kelen Heller, only one member is mysteriously disguised.  All of this adds to the intrigue of the band before you even listen to their music.

Musically, Kelen Heller delivers with a sound that is reminiscent of Shinedown.  Ricky Shuler shows a range similar to Brent Smith, soulful in the lower register and impassioned in the higher register.  If you’re a fan of bands like Shinedown and Sevendust, you’re going to love Kelen Heller.

 

[96] IGNITE THE FIRE – “Criticize”

What do you get when you cross the soaring, melodic vocal style of Shinedown’s Brent Smith and the haunting vocal style of Gemini Syndrome’s Aaron Nordstrom?  Ignite The Fire’s Jack Gurecki. Like Gurecki, the tight, intense musicality of the entire band conjures up thoughts of Gemini Syndrome.  This is high praise considering the fact that the band is relatively new on the scene.

“Criticize,” from the band’s debut, 5-song EP offers up everything that you expect from the heavy hitters in the format, driving rhythm, meaningful lyrics, impressive vocals, and a cohesive sound that goes well beyond their years.

It’s no surprise that Ignite The Fire has already shared the stage with many of the top names in Active Rock.  If they get radio traction, there’s no reason that this band can’t follow the same ascension that bands like Nothing More and Red Sun Rising have enjoyed in recent years.

 

[97] WOVENWAR – “Lines In The Sand”

Wovenwar certainly seems to have their finger on the pulse of the mood in America, where the country is more divided than ever.  Because people seem to be drawing “Lines In The Sand,” the chasm grows more by the day.

The melodic parts of the song take on a neutral, observational stance, while the tortured growls embody the rage being felt by many (at least that is my interpretation).  A perfect storm of unlikely events and shifts in mindset has taken us to a tipping point where compromise and debate has been replaced by finger-pointing and judgment.

The lyric…“to build a wall, between us all, it’s our downfall” speaks volumes about where we are as a society.  Wovenwar perfectly captures the frustration that many people are feeling these days with the thought-provoking “Lines In The Sand.”

 

[98] IDLEWAR – “Hang”

After listening to “Hang” several times upon discovering it, I was surprised to find that the band is a power trio because their sound is so big.  The band has only been together since 2014, but you’d never know it by listening to them.  If you didn’t know better, you would probably think that this was an undiscovered band from the ‘70s.

The trend of bands with a distinct Led Zeppelin influence is something that has given me hope for the future of rock and roll.  Idlewar has taken the approach of creating an epic, mystical sound that harkens back to the days of Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Black Sabbath.

This is not to imply that the band is dated sounding in the slightest.  Idlewar’s brand of classic meets stoner rock is timeless.  One listen to “Hang” will show you exactly what I’m talking about.

Featuring bassist/vocalist James Blake, Rick Graham on guitar, and Pete Pagonis on drums, this power trio is a force to be reckoned with.  As impressive as Blake’s bass playing is, it’s his Ian Gillan meets Chris Cornell vocals that takes center stage.

If you have an appreciation for the brand of rock and roll that has come from the legends of yesteryear, you will have a profound appreciation for what these relative newcomers have to offer.

 

[99] KIRRA – “My Disease”

It’s admirable for an up-and-coming band to embrace the true essence of rock and roll, and resist the temptation to overproduce their music.  There’s a raw quality to “My Disease” that is a refreshing change of pace.

The heavy bottom and distortion would make you think of Kirra as a stoner rock band at first blush, but as you dig deeper into this song, a number of other styles and influences shine through.  With an aggression that melds the heaviness, and crunchy, tight riffs of bands like Five Finger Death Punch and Metallica, you would expect an angst-ridden vocal delivery.

It’s easy to be predictable; it’s much more challenging to be interesting.  Kirra is interesting.  Jesse Williamson’s vocals are more melodic than angry.  Though I doubt that lead guitarist Daxton Page is heavily influenced by Eric Clapton, there are moments in the song where his leads capture the same bluesy style.

 

[100] NITA STRAUSS – “Pandemonium”

This is the first time since Hard Rock Daddy started publishing year-end song lists that an instrumental track was featured, but then again, “Pandemonium” is no ordinary instrumental track, and Nita Strauss is no ordinary guitar player.

Strauss steps out from the shadow cast by Alice Cooper to deliver a shredding clinic on a song that transitions between fierce, adrenaline-soaked moments, and slower, more emotive, bluesy moments.  All the while, Strauss exhibits guitar virtuosity that is rare enough on its own, much less when comparing her to other female guitarists.

I cannot think of a more appropriate way to close out a list from a year that will go down in history for the empowerment of women.  There are far fewer women in rock (especially on guitar), but music knows no gender.  Instrumental music knows no political divide.  In an era where divisiveness is all the rage, music should be used to bring us all together.  If you’re open minded, you will be blown away by what Strauss brings to the table with this masterful instrumental.  This song was purposely saved until the end of the list to close on a high note, and to show support for the empowerment of women that is taking place in a way that is more profound than any other in my lifetime.

CONCLUSION

Thank you for taking the time to read this list and listen to the playlists.  Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.  Still want more hard rock?  Check out the Top Hard Rock Songs lists from 2013 – 2016.

We’re in the process of creating Spotify playlists.  If you’re interested in receiving links to them, please e-mail us: info (at) HardRockDaddy.com.

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