I had misgivings based on my last lackluster experience with Kiss, but in the end, I was glad that I went.

Geoff Tate’s collaboration with Sweet Oblivion may be the closest thing we’ve gotten to the classic Queensryche sound since 1990.

Before, Stryper had been too squeaky-clean, too “pretty” for metal. ‘Against the Law’ didn’t have that problem.

Music made when groups are in a state of flux can be pretty good too.

This best of 2018 list for hard rock and metal is capped by one mammoth record that made the whole year worth it.

The list is by no means exhaustive or definitive: Most people have their own personal choices for what they consider to be great lost recordings.