Back catalogue: Rock

Review: A four-CD career retrospective of Motorhead's iconic guitarist, coupled with a 320-page book, is set for release via BMG. Authoured by veteran rock journalist Kris Needs, in collaboration with Clarke's widow Mariko Fujiwara, the book provides a detailed account of Clarke's life and career. The narrative begins with Clarke's formative years, from his early musical inspirations to his significant collaborations, including recording with Curtis Knight. The story delves into his pivotal years with Motorhead (1976-1982), the formation of Fastway, and his solo endeavours. Personal insights from Mariko and Clarke's close friends enrich the biography, offering a look into his life beyond the stage. The CDs include The Early Years, featuring tracks from Zeus, Continuous Performance, and the Muggers. Motorhead Era, highlighting hits like 'Ace Of Spades,' unreleased demos and Eddie's work with Girlschool, Fastway, which showcases the band's evolution with demos, remixes, and tracks from eight albums and the Solo Years, focusing on his solo albums and collaborations. Stories don't come much more comprehensive than this.

Review: Rhino Records delivers a vibrant reissue of Fleetwood Mac's daring double-album, Tusk (1979), now available exclusively on 180g Transparent Light Green 2LP vinyl. This genre-defying masterpiece exemplifies the band's willingness to explore new territories. Lindsey Buckingham's intricate arrangements and diverse influences infuse the album with elements of pop, rock, new wave, and disco. Stevie Nicks shines with powerful vocals on standout tracks like the emotive ballad 'Sara' and the anthemic title track. While initially compared to the monumental success of Rumours, Tusk has since garnered a dedicated following for its boldness and artistic depth. Achieving Platinum certification and topping the UK charts, this reissue celebrates the album's enduring legacy and cements its status as a cult classic.

Review: Foreigner's 1981 album 4 is a masterclass in soft rock excellence, and its reissue on vinyl reaffirms its status as a classic still. The album, known for its impeccable production and iconic tracks, catches Foreigner at the peak of their powers. From the high-octane opener 'Night Life' to the anthemic 'Juke Box Hero,' the band delivers a blend of powerful rock and emotional balladry that remains timeless. 'Waiting for a Girl Like You' stands out as one of the greatest power ballads ever, with its atmospheric sound and Lou Gramm's silky vocals. 'Urgent,' another highlight, exells with its tight interplay between Mick Jones' guitar and the unforgettable saxophone solo, while 'I'm Gonna Win' and 'Woman in Black' exemplify the band's ability to craft songs full of determination and soul. Each track on 4 feels meticulously crafted, with infectious melodies and hooks that have resonated with audiences for decades. The vinyl reissue brings a warmth and depth to the recording that enhances the listening experience, making still stand out as an iconic rock album that no yacht should be without.

Review: Arena rock heroes Foreigner crushed with their 1977 self-titled album debut, spawning some of the biggest FM hits of that year, including the anthemic 'Feels Like the First Time' and 'Cold as Ice,' both of which were anchored - like most of Foreigner's songs - by the muscular but traditional riffing of guitarist Mick Jones, the soaring vocals of Lou Gramm, and the state-of-the-art rock production values of the day. The architect behind Foreigner's extraordinary catalog, Jones has crafted some of rock music's most enduring songs. After starting his own rock band and opening for the Rolling Stones in pubs across South London, his first big break came in 1964 when he moved to Paris and was hired to play with French singer Sylvie Vartan. After a brief stint in England to reform the band Spooky Tooth, Jones moved to New York and formed Foreigner with Ian McDonald and Dennis Elliott and Americans Lou Gram, Alan Greenwood and Ed Gagliardi. Foreigner defined a generation of rock music to people across the globe; now on 180-gram 45 RPM double LP, you can hear Foreigner in all its phenomenal glory.

Review: Ace Frehley's 1989 recording arrives at a curious crossroads in his career. It's bold, swaggering, and drenched in late-80s hard rock sheen, but there's a thread of defiance running through its polished surface. Frehley, who had long stood in the shadow of his former band KISS, approaches the project with the energy of someone eager to remind the world of his prowess. His trademark guitar flourishes are as electrifying as everisharp, crunchy and steeped in effortless cool. Guest spots from former Kiss drummer Peter Criss and Skid Row members inject bursts of collaborative dynamism, making this not just a solo venture but a communal flex of rock-and-roll camaraderie. Frehley sounds like a man with something to proveiand he delivers, guitar in hand, unapologetic and relentless.

Review: Styx and Foreigner and much-loved rock acts and they came together for an epic 'Renegades & Juke Box Heroes' tour recently. Nothing says summer like their feel-good anthems such as 'Come Sail Away,' 'Feels Like The First Time,' 'Renegade,' 'Juke Box Hero,' 'Mr. Roboto,' and 'I Want To Know What Love Is.' Foreigner's Mick Jones continues to drive the band with his signature songwriting and guitar hooks, while lead singer Kelly Hansen has rejuvenated the band for a new generation. Supporting members bring unmatched energy and help add to Foreigner's enduring appeal and Styx, with their extensive catalogue of hits and high-energy performances also impress. This is a great tribute to classic rock.