Gloryhammer’s Sozos Michael is probably better from a technical standpoint than Thomas Winkler. But the better technical singer is not always a better fit.

The subversive nature of Zeal & Ardor’s music is sure to be a turn off for some, but for the rest of us, it’s a refreshingly original take.

It’s refreshing to hear this version of Aerosmith without the glitz and glam that they became known for later on.

‘Peacemaker’ probably would have been fun without the interesting musical choices, but its glam-metal soundtrack makes the HBO Max series so much better.

Fred Phillips’ Best of 2021 Hard Rock and Metal also includes Black Label Society, Durbin, Ad Infinitum, Cody Jinks, Unto Others and Iron Maiden, among others.

Asked to pick five favorite Yuletide songs (and only five), our panel of holly-jolly musical enthusiasts offered some occasionally offbeat suggestions.

This compilation arrived 10 years ago today with few surprises for diehard Judas Priest fans. The intriguing part was who chose which song – and why.

A key track from Savatage’s ‘Streets: A Rock Opera,’ released 30 years ago this week, made all the difference in the world for one troubled fan.

The Black Album arrived 30 years ago today, hurtling Metallica into the mainstream. It felt like something sacred had been taken away.

Live music was back, Anti-Mortem was back and, for at least a few hours, all was right with the world.