MelodicRock Classics Label

Thu
12
Feb

BARLOW/MINTO 'Our Restless Nature' (4CD Set) Showcases AOR Legends

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MelodicRock Classics Label
 
After a couple of years of track searches, back and forths, remastering and schedule juggling, MelodicRock Classics is thrilled to announce the details of the much-anticipated BARLOW/MINTO songwriters demos project.
Spanning over 4-Discs, ‘Our Restless Nature, The Songs Of Barlow/Minto’ covers the dynamic writing relationship Janet Minto and Pam Barlow had over a number of years.
They wrote an astounding number of classic AOR friendly songs together, with occasional guest writers joining the fray, names such as Chas Sandford, Jeff Baxter, Jan Buckingham and more.
Pam Barlow and Janet Minto met sometime in the middle ‘70s, having both gotten the call to do some background vocals for Rick Roth, a local songwriter in Marin County, CA.

The set is broken into 4 parts – Disc 1 and 2 features AOR Anthems (a male and female disc); Disc 3 is some more acoustic driven and pop flavoured numbers and disc 4 is the newly remastered reissue of the Fake I.D. album ‘Dreaming Ezekiel’, which features the songs of Barlow/Minto with vocalist Gene Miller, who is also featured on Disc 1.

As another added bonus, there are 4 never before released alternative-vocal takes, featuring Marcie Free, Rob Tro and Stan Bush.

The set comes as 2x complete double CD releases (jewel cases wrapped in a cardboard slipcover), with extensive liner notes and photos spread across both booklets.
Vocalists featured include Pam Barton & Janet Minto, Curly Smith, Paul Shortino, Mark Free, Stan Bush, Rob Tro, Gene Miller of course and more.

‘Our Restless Nature’ will be released November 28 as a limited edition 500 unit set.

Disc 1:
Anthems (Male Vocal)
01. Back In My Life
02. Dying By The Golden Rule
03. Brave New Love
04. Close Enough For Rock N Roll
05. Dirty Tears
06. Velvet Glove
07. Piece Of The Night
08. Eddie Ray Wolfe-If We Call It Love
09. Every Time I See You
10. Freedom Man
11. If We Call It Love
12. Save A Little Piece
13. Self Defence
14. Word For Word
15. You're Gonna Need Someone

Disc 2:
Anthems (Female Vocals)
01. 2 Wrongs
02. (You Are) The Thunder
03. Earthly Power
04. Bedrock
05. Earthly Powers
06. Easy For You To Say
07. Lean A Little Closer
08. Long Last Look
09. Love Hostage
10. The Thunder
11. Two Wrongs
12. We Knew This Love
13. What Do You Need From The Night
14. Without A Touch
15. You'll Never Get Out
16. Don't Say No

Disc 3:
Acoustic & Pop & Bonus Rough Demos
01. 2 Of A Kind
02. Ashes Of Love
03. Can This Be Love
04. Cold Cruel World
05. Northern Lights (Shana)
06. Party In My Bed
07. Rocket In My Pocket
08. Shadowlands
09. Show Of Faith
10. Start This Thing Up
11. Ballad Of The Rose Tattoo (Rough Demo)

Bonus Tracks:
12. Drive She Said (Rough Demo)
13. Love In Vain (Rough Demo)
14. Wings Of Fire (Rough Demo)
15. Lovepoint (Rough Demo)
16. Restless Nature (Rough Demo)
17. Secret Skin (Rough Demo)
18. Flesh And Blood (Rough Demo, mono)

Disc 4:
Fake ID Remastered
01. Above Beyond The Call Of Love
02. Heartbreak Moon
03. Nothing Next To You
04. Tied To The Mast
05. Half A Heart
06. Even The Strong
07. Tears Don't Put Out The Fire
08. Hearts Break Like Promises
09. Go Easy
10. I'm A Fighter

Bonus Tracks:
11. Tied To The Mast (Mark Free Vocal)
12. Even The Strong (Stan Bush Vocal)
13. Tears Don't Put Out The Fire (Rob Tro Vocal)
14. I'm A Fighter (Mark Free Vocal)

 
 
 
Thu
12
Feb

GARY MOON Solo Album 'Still Moon' CD Remaster Out Now on MRC

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MelodicRock Classics Label
MelodicRock Classics continues its mission of reviving great albums from the past and giving them a fresh lease on life. On this occasion it is the great GARY MOON getting the remaster/reissue treatment. His acclaimed 1995 album’ Still Moon’ (self-re-issued in 2002) was filled with quality melodic rock from the voice that previously worked with Jeff Paris, Night Ranger and Three Dog Night, plus also appearing on solo albums from Night Ranger’s Brad Gillis and Kelly Keagy.
Many of the songs were written for a project called The Pack which never came to fruition, but the demos here include those performances.

This is a limited edition 500 unit reissue, recently remastered by JK Northrup.

Line up:
Gary Moon - vocals, bass
Brad Gillis - guitars, backing vocals
Gaylin Walker - guitars
Jeff Paris - bass, backing vocals
Pete Comita - bass, guitars
Steve Isham - keyboards
Curley Smith - drums, percussion

Track 12 is a new track Gary was working on after the original release of the album that was featured previously on MelodicRock.com CD Vol. 2.
As an added last minute bonus, we are including several “official bootleg“ live tracks from Gary’s appearance at MelodicRock Fest 4 in Chicago USA.
 
Track Listing:
01. Still
02. Heart Of Stone
03. State Of THe Heart
04. Alayna
05. Music Box
06. Call Of THe Wild
07. Queen Of The Damned
08. Can't Help Falling In Love
09. Angels Don't Lie
10. One Love
11. Love In A Wicked World

12. Now & Forever (Bonus Track)

Official Bootleg – Live at MelodicRock Fest:
13. Still
14. State Of The Heart
15. 1000 Bridges
16. Feeding Off The Mojo
17. Last Chance
 
 
 
Thu
03
Apr

GOTHAM Cassette Classic From 1989 Reissued via MRC May 30

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MelodicRock Classics Label
MelodicRock Classics jumps back to 1989 and teams up with classic melodic pomp rock outfit GOTHAM to release their very obscure, but very special, cassette only released one-off album ‘Home Sweet Home’.
This album has deserved the remaster treatment for years and the audio for this release is straight off the original master tapes.
The release has been re-titled ‘Pictures’ and adds 3
 
You might know them as Manito Park but these guys had a previous life of creating meticulously grand 80s AOR. Evoking memories of early Honeymoon Suite, Da Vinci, Touch and Le Roux, Gotham were pure and masterful 'feel-good' bliss.
 
Formed in the heart of Spokane, Washington, Gotham began as a trio of passionate musicians eager to leave their mark on the Pacific Northwest music scene. Lead vocalist and keyboardist Dave DuPree, vocalist and bass player Cary Bear, and vocalist and guitarist Bob Burdett first made their presence known in the small bars and resorts of Eastern Washington and North Idaho, creating a sound that resonated with both the rugged outdoors and the vibrant, gritty energy of the local scene.
 
In 1989, with the addition of drummer Rusty Knorr, the band transformed into the powerhouse unit that would go on to record their debut cassette release, Home Sweet Home. This bold new era for Gotham was defined by a fresh direction in sound, blending rock, pop, soulful melodies and flawless vocal harmonies into an unforgettable mix that captured the spirit of a generation.
 
From Spokane’s underground venues to the very heart of the Pacific Northwest music culture, Gotham’s raw energy, unforgettable hooks, and honest lyrics continue to echo through the ages. Their journey was one of persistence, a passion for live gigging, and a love for creating music. Better days, indeed.
 
GOTHAM ‘Pictures’ will be released worldwide by MelodicRock Classics on May 30.
 
Track Listing:
Gotham (Remixed and Remastered from Original Master Tapes)
01. Prelude
02. Let It Go
03. Pictures
04. Dirty Love
05. House Grey Light
06. Stolen Moments
07. Brother Sung Unhero
08. I'll Be There
 
BONUS TRACKS:
Manito Park (Remixed and Remastered from original Master Tapes by Max Norman) 
09. Girl In Green
10. One Last Look
11. Daydreamer
 
 
Wed
02
Apr

TRILLION To Release Acclaimed EP on CD For The First Time via MRC

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MelodicRock Classics Label
 
MelodicRock Classics is honoured to partner with classic pomp-rockers Trillion for a physical release of their acclaimed 2011 EP ‘Trillion III’.
For this occasion, the release will be re-titled ‘Ray Of Light’ and feature brand new artwork by resident MRC graphic artist Nello Dell’Omo.
 
The songs were written and recorded by early band members Thom Griffin, Frank Barbalace, Bill Wilkins and CJ Vanston as well as bass by Dave La Rue.
 
As a very special bonus, we are adding 5 solo tracks from singer/songwriter Thom Griffin to round out the release. The 5 singles were individually released digitally by Thom over over the last several years, haven’t yet been cemented into history with a physical release.
 
Bill Wilkins sums up the band’s feelings: “I had always wanted to pick it up again and just see what might happen. After a number of years and a move back to Chicago I decided to test the waters and see if there was any interest.  Thom Griffin, Frank Barbalace and I met together at a drum clinic given by Steve Smith of Journey fame. It was the first time we'd been together in the same room in years.  We weren't sure if there would be anything like the chemistry we had in the past but we were excited to find out. 
We hope you'll feel the same energy and excitement that we felt writing and recording the five songs that the three of us have contributed to this CD as well as the wonderful songs that Thom has contributed with so many talented artists that you'll recognize. If you close your eyes you just might be able to see the crowds and that Golden Sun Beyond!”
 
Thom Griffin added a few thoughts about his solo songs: “I just recorded and released each song as it came to me. When my “music muse” pays a visit, I try to pay attention! I still love doing this, the music has never failed me!”
 
The Trillion III Featuring Thom Griffin release ‘Ray Of Light’ will be released via MelodicRock Classics May 30.
 
Track Listing:
 
Trillion III
01. Ray of Light
02. Golden Sun Beyond
03. She Hates Sunday
04. In My Blood
05. Innocence
 
Thom Griffin
06. One Last Time
07. How Long
08. One Fine Day
09. Eight Get Bye
10. Stand By My Side
 
Tue
11
Mar

VISIONARY MAN Album Released From The Vault April 11 on MRC

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MelodicRock Classics Label
 
MelodicRock Classics kicks off what could be the biggest year of the label’s existence yet, with two releases due April 11.
The two albums will both be part of the 500 series, meaning once gone, they’ll be gone!
 
Full details of the second title is as follows:
 
VISIONARY MAN – Visionary Man
 
The second title is a previously unreleased album featuring New Orleans born Dean Vallecillo (Lead and backing vocals, Bass guitars) and Dare Force and solo guitarist Brian Bart. Brian previously worked with MRC for the release of his rocking solo album ‘Future Vision’.
 
The band Visionary Man features 3 members of Dare Force and was recorded after the original Firepower album.
We’ll dig further into Dean and Brain’s past and the details of the band’s all too-short existence with the full press release.
Safe to say, it’s another quality slice of American melodic hard rock.
 
Dean has been singing since the age of 5 and began playing several instruments in school. He received his first bass guitar at the age of 13 in 1973.
From 1983 to 1989, Dean played in three of the greatest unsigned bands in the United States: Heyoka and Winterkat from San Antonio, Texas, and Minneapolis’s own Dare Force.
 
Brian Bart’s resume now goes back 40 years. He has been a stalwart of the Minneapolis rock scene since the start of the 80s – as a guitarist, songwriter, producer, engineer just for starters.
In recent years Brian has been the owner, engineer and producer at Logic Studios & Logic Recordings. He has recorded over 400 albums, played multiple instruments on over 150 records, including ten of his own.
 
Visionary Man came to life with the impending dissolution of Dare Force after the release of ‘Firepower’. Dean had already written four songs for the follow-up. Although these songs were still in their infancy stage at the time, he had a head start on what would eventually become a solo album. With his years of songwriting and studio experience, along with the production prowess and iconic guitar work of Brian Bart, Visionary Man was painstakingly assembled.
However, the completion of the Visionary Man project coincided with another significant musical shift, rendering these songs somewhat outdated—for a time. Nevertheless, Dean and Brian kept the spirit alive, believing that someday the project would find its moment.
Now, that time has come—Visionary Man!
 
Available for pre-order this week and out April 11. Strictly limited to 500 units only.
Direct pre-orders get the advance audio delivered same day.
 
Track Listing:
01. Small Change 0.40
02. Visionary Man 4.53
03. Fantasy Satisfier 4.48
04. Heart And Soul 5.45
05. Eyes On You 4.39
06. Hold On 4.47
07. All Come Home Again 5.15
08. Defiant 6.00
09. Never Cry Again 4.38
10. What Love Should Be 5.24
11. The Line In My Hand 7.44
12. One Big Change 5.39

 
Tue
11
Mar

DOUG VARTY Archive Comes To MelodicRock Classics April 11

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MelodicRock Classics Label
MelodicRock Classics kicks off what could be the biggest year of the label’s existence yet, with two releases due April 11.
The two albums will both be part of the 500 series, meaning once gone, they’ll be gone!
 
Full details of the first title is as follows:
 
DOUG VARTY – Keep The Dream Alive
 
‘Keep The Dream Alive’ is a compilation of unreleased material from Canadian singer/songwriter and guitarist DOUG VARTY. Doug has fronted the Doug Varty Band; recorded with legendary producers Jack Richardson (The Guess Who), Terry Brown (Rush, Blue Rodeo), and David Tyson (Hall and Oates). He won a major recording deal as “Canada’s Best New Original Act” in Labatt’s Band Warz, a Canada wide Battle of the Bands with 2000 entrants.
 
He’s appeared live with Bob Seger, Tina Turner, The Tragically Hip, Jeff Healey, The Beach Boys, John Mellencamp, and Rush, to name but a few. He’s toured Europe, Mexico, the USA, and Canada extensively over his career.
 
There have been many recordings made of Doug’s music over the years, but these tracks, some of them his most favorite songs and performances, have not seen the light of day. “I’m really excited to see the release of this album. Some of my best songs and vocals are captured on it. Happy that I finally get to share them with fans new and old.”
 
Available for pre-order this week and out April 11. Strictly limited to 500 units only.
Direct pre-orders get the advance audio delivered same day.
 
01. Keep the Dream Alive 3.32
02. Solid Ground 4.02
03. Make It All Right 3.58
04. Everybody Needs A Lover 3.03
05. Sleepwalking 3.56
06. Girl’s Already Gone 3.03
07. Just Say Hello 4.44
08. Leave My Heart Alone 3.16
09. The Right Mistakes 4.16
10. Hurricane Jane 3.36
11. Drive On 3.28
12. Sweet Temptation 2.49
13. This is My Country (Live) 5.15
14. Sleepwalking (Demo) 4.01
15. This Is My Country (Demo) 4.04
 
 
 
Fri
14
Jun

SCHERER/BATTEN 'BattleZone' Deluxe Edition Out July 26 on MRC

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MelodicRock Classics Label
MelodicRock Classics dives back into the original MelodicRock Records catalogue for the fourth time to reissue an album long out of print, but still in high demand.
Scherer/Batten – ‘Battlezone’ was one of the most acclaimed releases signed to MRR. The 2017 release featured vocalist MARC SCHERER (Scherer/Peterik) and star guitarist JENNIFER BATTEN (Jeff Beck, Michael Jackson) alongside Jim Peterik and band.
 
For this 2024 re-issue, MRC is offering the Battlezone Deluxe Edition, which gathers the original album plus a selection of rough mixes and demo versions, plus 2 additional unreleased writing demos, ‘Change Everything’ (from MRCD9) and the bonus track ‘Blue Letter’, which previously appeared on the MRR100 compilation release.
Thanks to Danette Pahl, Marc Scherer and Jim Peterik for the assistance in getting this reissue going. It will be limited to just 500 units only.
 
Track Listing:
 
CD1:
01. Crazy Love 04:22
02. Rough Diamond 04:05
03. What Do You Really Think 04:14
04. The Sound Of Your Voice 05:14
05. Battle Zone 04:30
06. It Cuts Deep 05:59
07. The Harder I Try 04:58
08. Dreaming With My Eyes Wide Open 04:06
09. Space and Time 04:43
10. Tender Fire 05:30
11. All Roads 04:47
 
CD2:
01. Sound of Your Voice (Rough Mix)
02. Dreaming With My Eyes Wide Open (Demo)
03. Rough Diamond (Rough Mix)
04. What Do You Really Think (Demo)
05. Space And Time (Rough Mix)
06. Harder I Try (Rough Mix)
07. Tender Fire (Rough Mix)
08. Change of Heart (Writing Demo)
09. In My Lifetime (Writing Demo)
10. Change Everything (Writing Demo)(From MRCD9)
11. Blue Letter (‘The Blue Letter Breakdown’)(From MRR100)
 
 
‘BattleZone’ features material exclusively from the Jim Peterik (ex-Survivor, Pride Of Lions, The Ides of March) songbook. Featuring 8 rare musical gems from Jim’s songwriting vault, the album also features 3 brand new tracks, written for this project.
 
That’s 11 new classic songs, produced by Jim Peterik and featuring the impressive lineup of:
 
All Lead Vocals: Marc Scherer
All Lead Guitars: Jennifer Batten
Backing Vocals: Marc Scherer, Bill Champlin, Bryan Cole, Brian Hemstock, Danette Pahl
Alternate Lead and Rhythm Guitars: Jennifer Batten, Mike Aquino, Dave Carl, Jim Peterik
Bass Guitars: Bill Syniar, Klem Hayes
Keyboards: Jim Peterik, Christian Cullen, Chris Neville, Barb Unger
Drums: Dave Kelly, Ed Breckenfeld
Sax: Mindi Abair
 
Additional credits include:
Executive Producer: Danette Pahl
Engineered by: Larry Millas
Mastered by: Larry Millas at World Stage Studios and JK Northrup at Alien Productions
Mixed by: Jim Peterik and Larry Millas
Keyboard Programming: Larry Millas and Christian Cullen
Art Direction and Cover Art: Nello Dell'Omo
 
Jim Peterik comments: “As a long-time enthusiast of Marc Scherer's vocal chops and the expertise of rock guitar goddess Jennifer Batten, you can imagine how excited I am at the release of Scherer/ Batten ‘BattleZone’ album. As a song writer and producer, it was a dream come true mining some lost gems from my many years in rock, producing them to a new lustre and even writing three brand new cuts with Marc and Jennifer - Cuts Deep, The Harder I Try and the title track BattleZone.
Andrew McNeice and Danette Pahl of Melodic Rock Records gave me the artistic leeway and financial support to create the album of a lifetime.
Working with one of the best engineers in the business, Larry Millas, and musicians like multiple Grammy Award Winner Bill Champlin of Chicago, bassist Bill Syniar (formerly of Survivor), Mike Aquino (guitarist and singer from World Stage), and two-time Grammy Nominated saxophonist, Mindi Abair, along with Dave Kelly and Bryan Cole, brought depth and texture to the tracks that is palpable.
You can hear our excitement in every song. I guess you can see I'm pumped.
I dare you to crank up BattleZone or Tender Fire or Crazy Love and not rediscover why you fell in love with melodic rock in the first place. I double dare ya!!”
 
Jennifer Batten: “It was such a pleasure to jump into such a high-level inspiring project!  Marc’s vocals are out of this world, the grooves are kickin’, and working with Jim Peterik is so joyous and creative. I can’t wait to take this to the stage!”
 
And finally, the vocalist fronting this extraordinary project, Marc Scherer: “Even something as innocuous as lunch with Jim Peterik can inspire great things…
It was during one such meeting that Jim and I conceived of an album showcasing his lost musical treasures. Thanks to the contributions of long-time Peterik enthusiast and personal friend Danette Pahl, we now have lift-off!
While the brain trust of talent surrounding Jim enhances any idea, this album is extra special because it features a collaboration with one of the world’s greatest guitarists, Jennifer Batten – who played three world tours with Michael Jackson and two with Jeff Beck. They say you know when it’s right in the first 30 seconds, but in this case, you can sense the magic in the first few notes. BattleZone blends the songwriting craftsmanship and storytelling genius of Jim Peterik with the artistry of some of the most amazing musicians in the business. As Jennifer observed, the battle can be internal: the fight to be better, to raise the bar and challenge yourself while stirring the musical cauldron. I truly believe that we have captured lightning in a bottle and I’m so eager for everyone to share in this experience.”
 
Scherer/Batten ‘BattleZone Deluxe Edition’ will be released via MelodicRock Classics on CD & Digital July 26.
 

 

 
Mon
27
May

RIO 'Dangerzone' Out June 30 - The Bands Second Album Repackaged & Remastered

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MelodicRock Classics Label
 
MelodicRock Classics continues their partnership with acclaimed British melodic rock band RIO for the release of their second album – now presented with a new title and brand-new artwork – both driven by the band’s vision for what the second album should have looked like when originally released.
The band’s Steve Rodford sets the record straight: “We are finally be able to address the dreadful original album cover and name.  Titled ‘Sex Crimes’, this was our 2nd and last album for Music For Nations and the fact that Elektra Records in the States (who had licenced the first album from MFN) hadn’t taken up the option of a 2nd album, meant the budget for this album was nowhere near what we had for ‘Borderland’.  When it came to the cover art, the label had gone ahead and designed it without consulting us, and it was quite a shock to see they’d gone with a topless woman with angel wings and a whip!  It all felt so seedy and we both hated it. Then they told us there was no budget left to re-design it!  So it feels so good to be able to finally re-package the whole thing in a much cooler way, and also with a new name, both of us feeling that ‘Dangerzone’ is a better and more representative lead track for the record.  Finally, to have the whole thing re-mastered is a real joy, getting it in a better place sonically rounds things off perfectly.”
 
So with that said, RIO ‘Dangerzone’ will be released by MRC June 30, with new artwork from the band completed off by resident designer Nello Dell’Omo and remastered by JK Northrup.
 
Track Listing:
01. Pay For Love
02. Under Pressure
03. Atlantic Radio
04. Highschool Rock
05. Guilty
06. When The Walls Come Down
07. Danger Zone
08. Sex Crimes
09. Dirty Movies
10. Bad Blood
 
Bonus Tracks:
11. Atlantic Radio (Original Demo)
12. Guilty (Original Demo)
13. Pay For Love (Original Demo)
 
Vocals, Guitar & Backing Vocals – Jon Neil
Drums, Bass & Keyboards – Steve Rodford
Additional musicians: Backing Vocals – John Verity
All songs written and arranged by – Jon Neil, Steve Rodford
Producer and 1st Engineer – Steve Rodford
Remastered by JK Northrup
Additional tracks – Original demos produced and mixed by Steve Rodford.
 
Artwork design: Jon Neil Willoughy @StudioWibblee
 
Pre-orders for RIO are open now.
CD released June 30 on MelodicRock Classics
 
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Thu
02
May

THE MUGGS Triple Album Delivery on CD For The First Time May 31

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MelodicRock Classics Label
 
MelodicRock Classics is proud to deliver a true cult 80s classic by releasing The Muggs’ 1985 gem ‘Rockin’ The Midnight Light’ on CD for the first time on May 31.
But that’s not all. It’s a triple treat of 80s American AOR with the release of the full studio catalogue from The Muggs.
 
Joining the release of the 1985 classic is the band’s 1983 debut album ‘Subject Of Assault’ and their cassette only 1988 album ‘Touche’ – all three titles are on CD for the very first time, fully remastered from best available sources by JK Northrup.
 
Although not officially part of the 500 Series of releases, it is anticipated that these titles will be limited to 500 units each. So once gone…
As a special bonus to those that pre-order the 3 CDs from The Muggs, a bonus digital download of the album ‘Most Wanted’ will be included in the advance digital audio delivery.
‘Most Wanted’ was a 1986 covers album the band recorded for fun. It was released on LP but isn’t part of the CD re-issue series.
 
The band would like to dedicate these CD releases to Bob Mugleston “…our brother and bass player, RIP June 1, 2023.”
 
 
Track Listings:
 
SUBJECT (1983)
01. Subject Of Assault   
02. Take Her Away          
03. You Sent Me Away  
04. I'll Do What I Like     
05. Nice And Plain           
06. Thief In The Night    
07. Everyday     
08. All I Need    
09. Hey Do You Want Me            
10. Take It From Here
 
ROCKIN’ THE MIDNIGHT LIGHT (1985)
01. Run For Your Life
02. Don't Let Go
03. No Way To Hide
04. I Don't Want To Say Goodbye
05. I Can't Sleep At Night
06. Rockin' In The Midnight Light
07. Wire Tappin
08. Jungle
09. Matter Of Fact
10. Comeback
 
TOUCHE (1988)
01. Two Times Over
02. Who's Gonna Save The World Tonite
03. Survivin' On A Dream
04. State Of Mind
05. Somebody's Watchin' You
06. Caught In The Act
07. Out Of My Range
08. It's Up To You
09. This Time To Stay
10. Nothin's Lost Forever
 
MOST WANTED (1986)(DIGITAL BONUS)
01. Neutron Dance         
02. Bang On The Drum  
03. Heartache Tonight   
04. Living On The Edge  
05. Ain’t That A Shame 
06. Great Balls Of Fire    
07. Great Gosh All Mighty            
08. She Won’t Dance     
09. Bobby’s Drum Solo  
10. Gimee Some Lovin’
 
About The Muggs:
The Muggs aka "The Mugleston Family Band", The Muglestons, The Muggs...
A family that started out as a small musical trio in 1963 ages 6 to 9 years old. Bob (the oldest) playing an accordion, Desiree (the only sister) on the piano, and Blaine on the drums. The younger siblings Troy and Lance joined the band as they got a little older 5 and 3 years, adding the charm of this group of kids on the stage. Their journey took them on a 24-year fun ride playing shows across the US, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Caribbean as a show band, opening for numerous headliners in the casino showrooms and at State fairgrounds across the land.
 
Their love for harmonies and writing songs came from the many hours spent at the piano with "Uncle Jim Hickman", the barbershop chorus director who came to the house every Monday night in the young years of the Muggs. The recording career started in 1972-73 with their first album "Little Red School House", followed by the 1977 album "The Muglestons".
 
Working on their song writing skills and making music became one of their favorite things to do when not on the road. In 1983 "Subject of Assault" was filled with originals, 1985 "Rockin In The Midnight Light" led to their last two albums as a group. A home studio recorded album of songs performed on stage for their fans wanting to capture the performance 1986 "The Muggs Live" and an all original album in 1988 "Touche". We are looking forward to sharing the three original albums again with our fans and some new listeners.
 
Lance Mugleston, the guitar man, continued to write and record albums after The Muggs came to an end in 1992. "Carousel" and "While The Giant Sleeps" are both albums that are timeless and great albums.
 
Enjoy the music.
 
Subject Of Assault, Rockin The Midnight Light and Touche are all released May 31 on MelodicRock Classics.
 
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Thu
02
May

BIG GAME Mega Rarity Remaster & Reissue on MelodicRock Classics May 31

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MelodicRock Classics Label
MelodicRock Classics goes back to the mid-90s to uncover audio from one of the rarest indie EPs released at the time. The band is BIG GAME and their self-titled 5 track EP gave them a shot at bigger things, but you know the story.
Now the tracks have been dusted off, but not only that, the archives have been fully plundered to deliver the original EP, several additional unreleased demos and a few “official bootleg” live tracks.
It is the complete BIG GAME recording sessions on one disc, remastered once again by JK Northrup and limited to just 500 Units worldwide. Once gone…they’re gone!
 
 
Big Game is:
John McAfee - Lead Vocals/Guitars/Keyboard programming
Dan Strickland - Guitars/Vocals
Nep Sindel - Bass Guitar/Vocals
Sid Siddall - Drums/Percussion/Vocals
 
Track Listing:
01. Yesterday’s Gone
02. I Won’t Give Up
03. Out Of The Blue
04. The Assassin
05. Only For You
06. Always Gonna Be With You
07. No Room For Love (Demo)
08. Walls Come Down
09. Reason For The Season
10. Angel (Demo)
11. Let Me Be The One (Demo)
12. Broken Promises (Demo)
13. Cry Me A River (Demo)
14.  And I (Demo)
15. Endless Nights (Demo)
16. Heart and Soul (Live)
17. Stop Runnin From My Love (Live)
18. Goin Off (Instrumental)(Live)
 
About Big Game:
 
BIG GAME is the Recording project launched by Mid-West Guitarist, Singer/Songwriter John McAfee in the Summer of 1995 after leaving his former band “The Affair” (Mind Dust Records) of 11 years where he paid his dues playing as many as 300 dates a year recording and touring extensively in the U.S.A., Canada, and abroad (Richard Josef Soviet Glastnost Tour 1989) receiving MTV and Radio airplay. John was also an endorsing artist for GHS Strings, Washburn Guitars, Evans Guitar Products, and Laney Amplification.
On Drums and backing Vocals, John’s long-time friend, former band mate and future Brother–in-law Sid Sidall (The Affair, Shyster, Classic IV). Sid’s showmanship and technical finesse was the heart of this red-blooded American Rock & Roll Band. Sid was also known for his work in radio as program director for Toledo’s Rock Station WIOT FM 104.
Bass guitar duties are provided by Nep Sindel (VXN a.k.a. Edwin Dare, D.E.Z., Wolfgang, Gunnar Ross). Nep’s reputation as an accomplished Bassist and Songwriter is well known in the Detroit area, and not only confirms his maturity as a pocket groove player, but also in his contributions as a performer and songwriting team player.
Last but certainly not least on Guitars and Vocals is Dan Strickland (D.E.Z., Wolfgang). Dan’s extensive musical background and classical training often fuels his creative fire as a soloist and songwriter.  A multi-instrumentalist, Dan’s use of musical textures adds to the identifiable edge and energy of the band, which is undeniable on tracks like “The Assassin” and Instrumental “Goin Off”.
This Lineup produced an original 5 song EP released in 1996. With 12 other songs that never made it past the Demo stage and live performance, the band went on to headline regional shows and provide support for acts like The Spin Doctors, Vince Neil, .38 Special and more until the turn of the decade.
 
BIG GAME is released via MelodicRock Classics May 31.
 
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Tue
20
Feb

CHRIS ANTBLAD – Collected Works Vol. One, 6CD Set Due March 29 on MRC

Artist: 
Categories: 
MelodicRock Classics Label
 
MelodicRock Classics is thrilled to reunite with an old friend – Swedish singer/songwriter CHRIS ANTBLAD – for a 6CD Box Set ‘Collected Works, Volume 1’, a Limited Edition (500 Units) set, which takes in 6 of Chris’ studio albums from recent years, all previously only available via streaming and digital outlets.
This is Chris Antblad’s first physical CD release since ‘A New Dawn’ in 2012.
Chris first worked with MRC’s Andrew McNeice for the release of his debut solo album ‘Century’, back in 2011.
 
This limited box set captures 6 acclaimed albums, plus several bonus tracks, exclusive for this release.
 
Available for pre-order NOW, ‘Collected Works Volume 1’ will be released March 29 on MelodicRock Classics.
 
About Chris Antblad:
Chris Antblad was a big part of the songwriting and vocal talent behind the Spin Galley release ‘Standing Tall’, which came out on Atenzia Records in 2004.
That's just the start - Chris Antblad has spent the better part of his adult life as a musician and primarily as a songwriter. A mix of versatility and exceptional lyricism, has led to many interesting collaborations over the years. Primarily, the songwriting has been concentrated on adult oriented rock music and country. Two styles of music that both are reliant on advanced vocal-parts and arrangements.
After a few years of songwriting, the necessity for good demos fostered a vocal ability that in later years led to more and more vocal work. Growing up outside the Swedish music scene, there was little to choose from, in terms of vocalists, and necessity once again turned out to be the mother of invention. He was forced to learn the art of singing, and after a couple of uncomfortable years, he found himself a decent singer. Combined with the experience as a session keyboard player, with a lot of jazz under the belt, and decent abilities on guitar and bass, the quality of the work started to reach a professional level.
The songwriting led to Nashville and collaborations with some of his heroes like John Bettis, Gary Baker, Eric Martin, Paul Carrack, Michael Jay, Joe Lynn Turner, John Capek, Randy Goodrum, Jay Graydon, Brett James and Wayne Kirkpatrick. His interest for AOR always lingered as a result of growing up in the 80-ies and has led to a long-time collaboration with Joe Lynn Turner and a few noted appearances, one of which was the noted one-off Spin Gallery project.
 
‘Chris Antblad – Collected Works Vol. 1’ Features:
 
Disc One - Age Of Concord III: The Last Day Of Summer (2020)
Disc Two - Age Of Concord: America (2020)
Disc Three - Age Of Concord IV (2021)
Disc Four - Age Of Concord 80 (2021)
Disc Five - Sweet Surrender (2022)
Disc Six - The End Of The Beginning (2022)
 
Full Track Listing:
 
DISC ONE Age Of Concord III: The Last Day Of Summer
01. Unbroken   
02. Lion               
03. The Last Day Of Summer       
04. Mr. Preacherman    
05. A Painting   
06. My Heart's Forever Young    
07. Tattoos        
08. I Played The Piano And She Danced 
09. I Prayed For Rain      
10. When It Was Only You And Me          
11. Words
12. Another Pointless Song (Bonus Track)
13. Hell Is Empty (Bonus Track)
14. Long Live The King (Bonus Track)
 
DISC TWO Age Of Concord: America
01. When The Rain Is Done
02. Keep On Running
03. Bring Me Down
04. I Knew That Love Was Over
05. Just Hold On
06. Cry On My Shoulder
07. Love Is Nothing More
08. I’m Not Scared
09. A New Girl in Town
10. While Our Broken World Is Weeping
11. Show Me
 
DISC THREE Age Of Concord IV
01. I Just Needed To Know
02. Breaking Away From The Hero
03. A Summer That Won’t End
04. White Man’s Overbite
05. Everyone Knows
06. Love Was Never Lost Along The Way
07. Mr. Primeminister
08. There Is A Light
09. The Days
10. Summer Has Finally Come
11. Music City
12. Song For My M
13. I Play The Game (Bonus Track)
14. Noice (Bonus Track)
 
DISC FOUR Age Of Concord 80
01. It’s Summer Once Again
02. Lonely Nights
03. Through The Open Door
04. What If We Never Say Goodbye
05. Not Today
06. You Knew This Was Love
07. Run
08. I’ll Be Waiting
09. I’m Not Afraid To Come Closer
10. Here Between Now And Forever
 
DISC FIVE Sweet Surrender
01. Love Was Easy
02. Once Again
03. What’s Not To Like
04. Time To Catch Another Wave
05. One-Way Ticket
06. When There Is Nothing To Hide
07. More Than We Dared To Pretend
08. Play Me A Song From The Old Days
09. Sweet Surrender
10. Praying For Another Day
11. Lie To Me
12. A Box Of Moo-Juice
13. How Do You Know When It’s Done
14. Looking For A Place To Hide
15. I Have Faith
16. Fine, Fine, Fine
17. Anything, Anywhere
18. Wild Women
 
DISC SIX The End Of The Beginning
01. Deep In Your Eyes
02. You Started Something New
03. Now When The Brighter Days Are Gone
04. They Don’t Live Here Anymore
05. I Will Never Run
06. Maybe I’m Dreaming
07. We Had It All
08. Summeryoung
09. The One That Got Away
10. She Is Waiting By The Telephone
11. Cigarettes And Photographs (Bonus Track)
12. Faded Pictures (Bonus Track)
13. The Teremana Song (Bonus Track)
 
Wed
31
Jan
 
Sat
27
Jan

MARTEE LeBOW 'Rock Anthology' Gathers 80s Material & Unreleased Demos

Artist: 
Categories: 
MelodicRock Classics Label
MelodicRock Classics is excited to announce the first ever CD release for New York City rocker Martee LeBow’s two popular 80s records ‘Crimes of The Heart’ and ‘Love’s A Liar’. 
 
And to sweeten the deal, the 2CD set includes Martee’s out of print 1993 three track EP plus 11 previously unreleased bonus demos.
 
The double compilation ‘Rock Anthology (1986-1993)’ will be released February 23.
 
About Martee LeBow:
Martee LeBow is an acclaimed recording artist, singer/songwriter from upstate NY.
She taught herself to play the piano at age 3 and began writing songs at 10. In her teens she recorded her first album, "The Lady Wants To be A Star" produced by Charlie Calello, featuring NYC session royalty including Will Lee, The Brecker Bros, John Tropea and Jeff Mirinov. She supported the critically acclaimed release of that debut album with a nationwide tour before moving to NYC to continue to play her brand of bluesy rock in the clubs with her band.
 
In the 80s Martee signed with Atlantic Records and released "Crimes of the Heart" EP (prod. Robbie Buchanan) and "Love's A Liar" album (prod. John Jansen). 
 
Martee has collaborated with some great writers including, the late, great Keith Reid (Procol Harum) and Grammy award winner Will Jennings ("Roll Away", a sentimental favorite recorded by Dusty Springfield on her very last album).
She has also had a successful jingle career, singing on many commercials over the years such as Coke, Folgers, Budweiser, JC Penney, AT+T, Mercedes Benz, Sears, Dominos, Mc Donald's, Charmin', and Dannon, just to name a few.
As a background singer, she has supported other artists, including recording and traveling the globe with world music band, Alabina and Ishtar (singing in 5 languages!)
 
Her favorite gig for many years, has been as lead singer of The Mar-Tays, a slammin’ A-list NYC band with Irwin Fisch, John Siegler, Frank Vilardi, Ira Siegel, Larry Saltzman, and Robbie Kondor.
 
Most recently, she is very excited about the in-development show ”Last Night at the Rue Bayou”, for which she is the musical composer.  https://www.ruebayoumusical.com
 
Martee describes herself as ”still having too much fun!”
 
 
CD1: Crimes Of The Heart (1986) & Love’s A Liar (1987)
01. Crimes Of The Heart 3:47
02. Stranded in the Moonlight 3:43
03. Love Just Ain't Enough 3:32
04. One Down 3:43
05. Hearts Of Stone 4:12
06. Where Do I Stand 3:34
07. Another Lonely Heart 4:04
08. Love's A Liar 4:04
09. Maybe You'll Remember 3:31
10. Learning The Hard Way 3:30
11. Hang On (To My Reckless Youth) 4:04
12. Fallen Angel 3:45
13. Forbidden 5:05
14. I Must Be In Love 3:58
15. One Good Reason 3:18
 
CD2: Roll Away (CD Single) & Unreleased
01. Roll Away 4:31
02. Gone 3:05
03. Sail On 3:53
 
Unreleased Bonus Tracks:
04. Written In Stone 4:03
05. Running Out Of Time 4:24
06. Lost To The City 3:36
07. Remember Me 4:27
08. Crest Of A Wave 3:34
09. The Real You 4:23
10. Shade Of Green 3:50
11. Moonshine 3:17
12. Under The Sun 4:13
13. Hurtin You 3:36
14. In Your Own Backyard 4:06
 
Sat
27
Jan

AVION Finally Gets Official CD Release via MRC February 23

Artist: 
Categories: 
MelodicRock Classics Label
MelodicRock Classics kicks off their 2024 Release Schedule with some long-awaited gems, starting with four new titles on February 23.
 
To start, MRC is thrilled to partner with Randall Waller to bring fans the first ever official CD releases from the classic Aussie melodic rock band AVION.
 
Avion’s two acclaimed studio albums: ‘Avion’ (1983) and ‘White Noise’ (1986) have both been the subject of bootlegs but have never had an official CD release.
In addition to the two studio albums, Avion released an independent live album on cassette only in 1987 and that too is now going to find its way to CD a part of this reissue series.
 
All 3 CDs are remastered by JK Northrup from the best available master sources and will feature non-album singles and B-sides as bonus tracks.
 
Check out Randall’s brand-new solo album ‘More’ at: https://randallwaller.bandcamp.com/album/more
 
About Avion:
Avion's lead guitarist and lead singer, Randall Waller had previously released two albums as a solo artist, Oasis (1978) and Midnight Fire (1980). In 1981 Waller formed pop rock group Lionheart in Sydney with Evan Murray on keyboards, Martyn Toole on guitar, and his two brothers: John Waller on drums and Kendall Waller on bass guitar - the group was soon renamed as Avion.
Avion signed with RCA Records and, in September 1983, released their debut self-titled album, mixed by Bob Clearmountain at the Power Station recording studio in NYC. The album spawned three singles, "I Need You" (March 1983), "Diamond Eyes" (September) and "Never Let Me Go" (October).
In August 1984 the group issued a non-album single, "Still the Night". Paul Gannell replaced Toole on guitar and, in September 1985, released "We've Got Secrets" on RCA. In 1986, the band signed a deal with EMI Records and "Celebration" appeared in September. In 1987 the band's second album, “White Noise”, followed.
In September 1987 Evan Murray died in a car accident while the group were on tour and the band essentially disbanded.
Randall Waller remaining in the industry, working as a producer, engineer, and then guitarist in Shania Twain’s band.
 
TRACK LISTINGS:
 
Avion – Avion (1983)
01. I Need You
02. Diamond Eyes
03. Lady Of The Night
04. We Can Try
05. Warrior
06. Never Let Me Go
07. Where Do We Go From Here
08. Always Waiting
09. Who's Crying Now
10. Once Bitten, Twice Shy
 
Bonus Tracks:
11. Still The Night (1984 Single)
12. Southern Cross (1984 Single B-Side)
 
Avion – White Noise (1986)
01. Celebration
02. Berlin Wall
03. Elle
04. In My Mind
05. Ships
06. We've Got Secrets
07. Calm Before The Storm
08. The Next Big Thing
09. On And On
10. Never Too Late
 
Bonus Tracks:
The Bigger You Are (1985 B-Side)
Ransom (1986 B-Side)
 
Avion – Live (1987 Release)
01. Long Night
02. Where Do We Go From Here
03. In My Mind
04. Ships
05. Secrets
06. Warrior
07. Ransom
08. On And On
09. Money Or Love
10. Berlin Wall
11. Celebration
12. I Need You
13. The Bigger You Are
14. Never Too Late
 
Bonus Tracks:
15. Ransom (Alt. Live Mix)
16. Money Or Love (Alt. Live Mix)
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Wed
17
Jan

AVION, MARTEE LeBOW, CHRIS ANTBLAD & BRICKLIN Coming to MelodicRock Classics

Categories: 
MelodicRock Classics Label
 
MelodicRock Classics kicks off their 2024 Release Schedule with some long-awaited gems, starting with four new titles on February 23.
Individual expanded Press Releases with full title details will follow shortly.
 
To start, MRC is thrilled to partner with Randall Waller to bring fans the first ever official CD releases from the classic Aussie melodic rock band AVION.
Avion’s two acclaimed studio albums: ‘Avion’ (1983) and ‘White Noise’ (1986) have both been the subject of bootlegs but have never had an official CD release.
In addition to the two studio albums, Avion released an independent live album on cassette only in 1987 and that too is now going to find its way to CD a part of this reissue series.
All 3 CDs are remastered by JK Northrup from the best available master sources and will feature non-album singles and b-sides as bonus tracks.
Check out Randall’s brand new solo album ‘More’ at: https://randallwaller.bandcamp.com/album/more
 
 
 
February 23 will also be the release date for a much-needed compilation featuring New York singer/songwriter MARTEE LeBOW.
Martee is of course responsible for some classic 80s American rock anthems, as featured on her 1986 EP ‘Crimes Of The Heart’ and the full-length follow-up ‘Love’s A Liar’ in 1987.
In 1993 there was a new 3-Track single ‘Roll Away’, before Martee moved on to other roles in the music world.
The debut EP and LP were never released on CD at the time, so with the assistance of JK Northrup, all of this material has been remastered for a 2CD ‘Rock Anthology 1986-1993’, which will be released February 23.
Martee graciously went through her musical archives to dig up a selection of previously unreleased songs, which will round out the compilation, including one song that surely would have been a hit single! Full details shortly – along with pre-order links.
 
 
MelodicRock Classics is excited to announce a March 29 release from the great Swedish singer/songwriter CHRIS ANTBLAD! A 6CD Box Set will gather 6 individual Chris Antblad/Age Of Concorde digital solo albums, previously released worldwide on streaming platforms only – now gathered for the very first time on a 6CD Box Set titled ‘Collected Works – Volume One’; strictly limited to 500 Units worldwide.
Full details soon!
 
 
On April 26, the retail release of the 8CD BRICKLIN Box Set ‘Anthology – The Complete Story’ will arrive. Pre-orders will be shipped out as soon as the sets arrive, with wholesale orders filled with any remaining copies.
Pre-orders and full details of the set can be found here: https://melodicrockclassics.com/bricklin.html
All those that pre-order will receive the full set audio in the coming couple of weeks.
 
 
Two May 31 releases will be announced shortly. Two very cool box sets and a really obscure cult melodic rock title.

 

 

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