Classic Rock’s New Releases Round-Up

This week we’ve got a batch of classic albums reissued from the Rory Gallagher catalogue, some AOR from a Danish band and an Italian/English duo and Ukrainian female fronted goth metallers.

Words: Malcolm Dome

Rory Gallagher remains an iconic figure in the world of rock. He may have died in 1995, but his trademark guitar style is still not only massively influential, but seems to have got him more recognition now than ever before. The reissue of his first six album by Sony/Capo is bound to enhance his legend, and rightly so. Each has been remastered and comes with original artwork. It’s a joy to hear Rory Gallagher, Deuce Live In Europe!, Blueprint, Tattoo and Irish Tour ’74 again.

One of the most consistent AOR bands around, Denmark’s Fate return with Ghosts From The Past (AOR Heaven). The songs are stylish, the atmosphere creative and the overall impact brings back memories of the much-missed Skagarack.

Mollo/Martin are back with their third album. The Cage 3 (Frontiers) is similar to the previous two releases from guitarist Dario Molli and vocalist Tony Martin. And if you enjoyed the latter’s time in Black Sabbath, then there’s plenty here to get you smiling.

Primal Fear have long been one of the best melodic power metal bands around. Unbreakable (Frontiers) does nothing new, but it offers a consistent quality of anthemic, Germanic style metal. An enjoyable romp.

From the Ukraine, Scarleth combine gothic rock with celtic influences. And Break The Silence (Casket) is surprisingly deft and confident. Maybe a little short of being top class, nonetheless it suggests this band could make a major impact in this area of rock.

Taking in progressive melodic and death metal touches, Finland’s Barren Earth are in fine form on The Devil’s Resolve (Peaceville). Their second release, it has a lot of influences which go back to 70s prog and metal, plus lots of brutal daubs which owe something to the 80s pioneers like Death. An impressive conflagration.

Dear Superstar are a Mancunian band who show enough on Damned Religion (Blast) to suggest they could be one of the biggest hitters of 2012. This is Buckcherry and Motley Crue filtered through Bullet For My Valentine. A trashy take on modern alt. rock, and stuffed full of strong songs and excellent playing. One to appeal across the board.

The World Is Yours Vol. 2 is a double CD showcasing the catalogues of the Freeworld and Retroworld labels. It’s an eclectic mix featuring such artists as Southside Johnny And The Asbury Dukes, Glen Matlock, Gordon Giltrap, The Pretty Things, Spirit and UFO. The overall quality does much to highlight that these labels have artists of the very highest stature, whether with current recordings or delving into the past.