Review by BH KOH

The German symphonic metal veteran returns with Eclipse and deliver one of the strongest albums of their career. It is packed with breathtaking guitars and soaring vocals. Ambre Vourvahis once again proves why she has become one of the premier voices in modern symphonic metal. From the cinematic instrumental opener "Syzygy" into the title track "Eclipse," the album immediately establishes a larger-than-life atmosphere. The orchestral arrangements are lush, the guitars hit with authority. "Northstar" stands among the album's most majestic tracks, with a soaring chorus and expansive atmosphere that recalls the genre's finest moments. The album closes with "Lore," an ambitious eight-and-a-half-minute epic that serves as a fitting finale. Combining orchestral grandeur, progressive arrangements and emotional vocal performances, the track encapsulates everything that makes Eclipse such a compelling listen. Overall, Eclipse is a powerful statement from a band operating at the peak of its creative abilities. Rich in melody, packed with memorable choruses, and filled with breathtaking orchestration, it stands alongside the best releases in Xandria's catalog.

For fans of modern AOR and melodic rock, Midnite City’s Itch You Can't Scratch is exactly the kind of album that reminds you why the genre continues to thrive. Packed with infectious hooks, shimmering keyboards, and arena-sized choruses, the British melodic rockers deliver a confident and highly enjoyable record that wears its influences proudly while maintaining its own identity. Frontman Rob Wylde is the band's secret weapon. His vocals are consistently outstanding throughout the album, combining power, melody, and emotional conviction. Whether delivering soaring choruses or more reflective moments, Wylde brings genuine personality to every track, helping elevate already strong songwriting. Overall, this is a fantastic release that would be an incredible addition to anyone's library. For fans of melodic rock, AOR, and bands such as FM, H.E.A.T., Eclipse, and Work of Art, this album is essential listening. It's the kind of record that reminds you why catchy hooks, soaring vocals, and heartfelt songwriting never go out of style.

Hold Your Ground is a superb example of contemporary melodic rock done right. Dennis Ward and Khymera deliver an album full of melodic excellence, polished production, and heartfelt performances that honour the classic AOR tradition while maintaining a modern edge. Musically, Hold Your Ground is exactly what longtime Khymera fans expect. Eleven tracks of hook-filled melodic rock driven by soaring vocals, strong musicianship, and immaculate production. Songs such as "Sail On Forever", "Runaway", "Could Have Been Us" and "Am I Dreaming" maintain a high standard of songwriting throughout the record. Hold Your Ground may not surpass Khymera's very best releases for every listener, but it stands as one of the stronger melodic rock albums of 2023 and a must-hear for fans.

Transatlantic Radio's Midnight Transmission is exactly that kind of record. A debut album that feels like a love letter to the golden age of AOR while still sounding fresh enough to belong in the present era. It delivers a masterclass in melodic rock craftsmanship, blending polished European melodic finesse with hard-charging American rock energy and a genuine passion for the genre. What makes Midnight Transmission especially enjoyable is its refusal to settle for mere imitation. The influences are obvious, but the band manages to capture the spirit of classic AOR rather than simply copying its sound. The songwriting feels authentic, the performances are sincere, and the production strikes an ideal balance between vintage warmth and contemporary punch. Midnight Transmission is one of the strongest and most impressive AOR debuts in recent years. Transatlantic Radio successfully blend classic melodic rock influences with modern production and outstanding musicianship, creating an album that feels both nostalgic and contemporary.

The Wild Card is a return to form album for Treat. This album simply Rocks. It has huge hooks, powerful vocals and timeless songwriting. Robert Ernlund vocals remains remarkably strong, delivering each chorus with conviction and emotion. One of the album's greatest strengths is its consistency. Tracks such as "Endeavour", "Back To The Future" and "Adam & Evil" demonstrate Treat's mastery of catchy melodic rock songwriting. Rather than chasing modern trends, the band embraces its identity and delivers exactly what fans of classic Scandinavian melodic hard rock want to hear. The Wild Card is a superbly-crafted melodic rock album fueled by the spirit of '80s rock. A must have for all fans.

For diehard Hardline fans, this is the album many have been hoping for. More than three decades after the classic Double Eclipse, Johnny Gioeli and gang have delivered a record that captures the spirit of that legendary debut while injecting a heavier and more modern edge. Shout is a triumphant return for Hardline and one of the strongest melodic hard rock releases of 2026. It successfully honours the band's legacy while sounding fresh and energetic. Fans of classic Hardline sound will find plenty to love here. What makes Shout so enjoyable is its consistency. There are no obvious filler tracks. The album maintains a strong momentum from start to finish. Standout tracks include the anthemic "Rise Up," the hook-filled "It Owns You," and the excellent "Mother Love," which features one of the album's strongest choruses. The band's reinterpretation of Scorpions' "When You Came Into My Life" is another highlight, transforming the original into a distinctly Hardline-style melodic rocker while showcasing Gioeli's vocal abilities. All in all, Shout is Hardline's finest album in years and arguably their strongest release since the legendary Double Eclipse.

Bite The Bullet delivers a sound that is made for the biggest stadium rock around the globe, bringing back everything that was so thrilling, energetic and flamboyant about late 80s Hair Metal. Catchy chorus, soaring guitar and melodic keyboard driven tunes that are so easily acceptable to all glam metal fans. If you like *In At The Deep End*, you will definitely love this album. Needs to have it in your collection.

After a ten year wait since Reach (2016), Tyketto return with Closer to the Sun, an album that confidently re establishes their place in melodic hard rock without chasing modern trends. Classic album - uplifting choruses, blues tinged hard rock riffs, Hammond organ flourishes and Danny Vaughn remains the emotional anchor—his voice still rich, expressive, and convincing. Ged Rylands’ keyboards add depth and warmth, while Harry Scott Elliott’s guitar work balances blues swagger with melodic restraint. The rhythm section (Chris Childs and Johnny Dee) keeps everything grounded and road ready. An album not to be missed.

With her third album - Reckless, Chez Kane firmly establishes herself as one of the standout voices in modern melodic hard rock and one of the UK's brightest talent in recent years. The album fully embraces classic ’80s AOR energy with polished production, soaring vocals, infectious hooks and with a sexy artwork. Reckless is not just an album trying to reinvent melodic hard rock - It’s an album aiming to perfect it. There’s no real filler here. Each track serves a purpose and maintains the album’s momentum. The songwriting leans heavily on strong choruses and simple but effective structures, true to the genre’s roots. Chez Kane succeeds by embracing what makes the genre special: memorable melodies, confident performances, and songs that feel tailor made for the stage. If you enjoy artists like Vixen and Heart, you will enjoy this album.