Graham Bonnet Band – Lost in Hollywood Again (Frontiers)

Graham Bonnet keeps getting lost in Hollywood time after time! The man is a classic rock singer with an incredible catalog under his belt, and he’s still actively creating new music. This live set delivers a powerful overview of Bonnet’s long career—from his days in Rainbow to Michael Schenker Group, Alcatrazz, and finally his own Graham Bonnet Band. This set is hot whether you play it forward or backward. Killer songs, strong delivery, and an extremely fun time from start to finish.

Lost in Hollywood Again is a combination live CD and DVD. See it, hear it, breathe it—it's excellent whichever way you choose to experience it. The concert took place at the legendary Whisky a Go Go in 2024, an intimate venue with a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. From the first intro to the final note of “Lost in Hollywood,” this show absolutely rocks.

The performance kicks off with “Eyes of the World,” a perfect opener and arguably one of the finest tracks from Bonnet’s Rainbow era. The song builds beautifully, and once Bonnet begins to sing, the mood and momentum surge forward. The lead break is simply out of this world. Anthem after anthem follows—essentially a greatest-hits set delivered with confidence, passion, and total conviction.

The band clearly enjoys themselves on stage—you can see it in their expressions. They aren’t just performing; they’re flying with the music. Conrado Pesinato handles guitar duties, Alessandro Bertoni commands the keyboards, Francil Cassol powers the drums, and the ever-resourceful Beth-Ami Heavenstone anchors the low end on bass. They are excellent musicians who share a strong, positive chemistry. It’s refreshing to witness such genuine love for the music being expressed onstage.

Graham Bonnet himself remains a true survivor of rock’s golden era. While he may not have the same vocal power he once did, he still delivers a compelling show. Any limitations are more than compensated for by his attitude, professionalism, and forward momentum. Watching or listening to this performance is a reminder of the songs many of us grew up with—if we were lucky enough. The setlist is packed with outstanding material, ensuring that every listener will find a personal favorite.  There is even an instrumental surprise that digs deep into the Purple family.

With the Graham Bonnet Band currently working on a special upcoming studio release, Lost in Hollywood Again will more than satisfy fans in the meantime.

Mark Kadzielawa

Greyhawk – Warriors of Greyhawk (Cruz Del Sur Music)

 

Over the last couple of years, Greyhawk have truly developed into an outstanding heavy metal band. With each release, the band has shown clear growth and a steadily sharpening musical identity.  Warriors of Greyhawk should have been the album that firmly cemented their position—and technically, it still does. This is a flawless record: beautifully crafted, packed with catchy songs, and bursting with energy.

What momentarily halted Greyhawk’s momentum was a change in the vocal department. Rev Taylor departed to focus fully on his operatic career, and Anthony Corso stepped in as his replacement. Corso proves to be an ideal fit, bringing a strong melodic edge to the band. His performance on this album is absolutely superb, leaving no doubt that he is the right man for the job. With him at the helm, Greyhawk are poised to soar to new heights.

Warriors of Greyhawk excels from start to finish. There’s no learning curve here—just press play and let it flow. The album delivers a solid blend of traditional and power metal, driven by confident, adventurous songwriting. Rather than relying on excess, the band focuses on feel and skilled execution. Big chords, powerful hooks, and infectious sing-along choruses make it clear that Greyhawk are ready for any battle ahead.

With Warriors of Greyhawk, the band has clearly struck the right chord. The album showcases a tight, talented instrumental unit paired with a commanding and capable frontman. Its diverse songwriting makes for a highly engaging listen—one that invites repeated exploration. Few modern heavy metal albums achieve such a strong balance of material. While Greyhawk are technically re-establishing themselves with a new vocalist, this release represents a massive step forward in nearly every aspect. Excellent from beginning to end.

Mark Kadzielawa

Iron Brigade – Ill Fated Voyage (Stormspell Records)

 

Iron Brigade have finally released their debut album, and it’s an excellent one. Ill Fated Voyage offers a very different take on heavy metal, rooted in the pure essence the band projects and now reflects through their music. The album carries an early 1980s feel—uncompromising metal that was never commercial and never bent under pressure.

Ill Fated Voyage is packed with fast rhythms, strong guitar harmonies, pounding drums, and powerful vocals. Vocalist Daniel Butch is an outstanding singer and truly adds the icing on the cake to an already intriguing album. Every component of this machine works together to create something special.

Each spin of Ill Fated Voyage awakens the spirit of traditional heavy metal. The band isn’t breaking new ground, but what they do is refine and perfect what was handed down by the very best. The album has a clear personality, and the development of an original style is more than evident. Iron Brigade skillfully conceal their influences while adding their own perspective to established norms. Listeners will hear echoes of the past and may form their own interpretations of the material. And while there’s no shame in an Iron Maiden overtone here and there, Iron Brigade stand firmly on their own!

Ill Fated Voyage is well planned and expertly delivered. A great deal of thought went into this album, and that’s what makes it so compelling. There’s a depth that may not reveal itself immediately, but each listen brings you closer to discovering it. The production adds a raw, authentic edge—don’t expect any happiness here. This is mean metal delivered with fury. Iron Brigade aren’t just playing songs; they’re attacking!

Mark Kadzielawa