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Week Ending:
4 October 2025

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Album Of The Week

How Do We Rate Album Of The Week?

TheBigBlack


Castle Rat Logo

The Bestiary

Castle Rat - The Bestiary (2025)

[Doom Metal]

United States

Rating - 3 Stars

Like many heavy metal sub-genres, doom metal treads a fine line sometimes between being weighty and fresh or instead just being a parody of itself and its forefathers. Album number one for Castle Rat, Into The Realm from 2024, almost felt a bit gimmicky - not so much based on its musical quality - but more so on its short 32 minute run time and overly shlock sword and sorcery visuals. There was also that fact the frontwoman The Rat Queen (Riley Pinkerton) reveals a lot more than just her vocal skills in the outfits she wears. Pulling off a worthy, or even better, second album was critical to the longevity of the band - mainly to prove they aren't just another tear drop in a sea of lost one-album wonders. The album opens with 'Phoenix I', a complete song, but also just an intro in function. If features some slick guitar harmonies and builds some anticipation and tension. Oddly, it fades out rather than ending abruptly, and all that building tension is broken by the white noise between it and next track 'Wolf I'. The first proper song on the album, it is slow and broody. It builds like a great oil painting, layering texture on texture until the entirety of the breadth of the album to come is on display. It's the type of song that on first listen doesn't sound like it should lead the album into battle, but by its close it shows why it is the most worthy warrior the album has. 'Wizard' is massive and beautiful and everything a good doom metal song should be. The riffs are big and fat, but never outstay their welcome. There is a chance the retro 70's thing could come off as a little on the nose, and at times it is a bit much - but for the most part it is done with such a driving urgency that it really works. Sure, there is some Black Sabbath worship here, but it is hard to play lumbering down-tuned riffs without that sound coming through at times. The ending solo is a perfect solo in every way, showing just how good new guitarist The Count is for the band. There are a few lumbering moments here, with 'Unicorn', the album's longest song being a good example. It isn't by any means a bad song on its own - but amongst twelve other songs with a similar style and tempo it does feel like it is on the verge of outstaying its welcome. It is hard to imagine listeners staying engaged at a live show, but that is probably why the rat-headed and scantily clad Rat Reaperess takes the stage to entertain, like some 1970s Hawkwind throwback. At the center of the album is 'Serpent', which is one of the more accessible songs, but the main reason for it deserving a mention is the Malmsteen-esque solo that ends the track. It is a true masterpiece, and is unfortunately faded out. There are quieter interlude moments like the short 'Path Of Moss' and 'Summoning Spell'. They are far from essential tracks, but they do break the momentum enough to allow the listener to come up for air. 'Sun Song' has a massive ending for the album, not just in isn't heaviness, but in the huge crescendo that it closes everything with. It is actually a shame that the final track, 'Phoenix II', is just another short and soft instrumental. Overall, although it is a well written and wonderfully executed set of performances, it isn't an album for every day. Like most doom metal you need to be in the right mood to appreciate it fully, and at just under 50 minutes it can be a demanding listen. That being said, doom metal shouldn't be an easy listen - and Castle Rat have proven on this album the reward is in the perseverance of the listener, and in their ability to stay focused on the rich and rewarding music whilst ignoring some of the gimmicky dress ups and album art. Some tracks are a tad samey, mainly due to the mostly monotone vocals and the tempo of many being the same, but they do have enough variance to stand apart once you get to know them. Doom metal megafans will probably claim there are more genuine doom bands out there, but are there any that are quite so 'fun' to listen to? Probably not.

mindkiller8


Cult Of Luna Logo

The Beyond

Cult Of Luna - The Beyond (2003)

[Post-Metal]

United States

Rating - 3 Stars

Cult Of Luna is a band I'd taken a mild interest to in the period called 'post-metal' if there is a meaning to that. There were several bands labelled this, but I didn't have much of an interest in it. The bands and the music on offer, while somewhat appealing, also needed a significant investment in the 'genre' highlighted by mostly 8 plus minute songs wavering through all types of sounds and moods. There were a number of bands that stood out with one of them being ISIS (that I recently reviewed). Of CUL's discography I chose The Beyond to review as it is considered a close replica of ISIS - Panopticon (2004). After a very short introduction, the band hit hard with 'Receiver', again bringing a blast of music and gritty vocals followed a minute or so later by an interlude of drums and guitars bringing the anger down a little but has the listener hanging on the edge of what is about to happen next. Eventually returning to the start, the desperation in the vocals continues, screaming for attention. Sure you need the liner notes to read what is being sung, but really you do get the idea of what the band is trying to portray, accompanied with the music. A brilliant starter, setting up the listener for what is to come. Or is it? Next track opens with a mellow, plodding sound, giving every intention of drowning vocals which have the listener feel they are climbing a mountain too impossible to climb. With track 2, 'Gensis', prepare to hang in for over 11 minutes of desperation, sorrow and anger. Certainly there is much more vocal involvement in the song structures which I don't mind. Highlights include the bass line that runs through 'The Watchtower'. The remainder of the album covers 7 to 11 minute songs along the same lines as what you would have heard to now. Again, taking into account this is a release for a band still young in their music journey (2nd full-length after their self-titled debut 2 years ago), the maturity shown is impressive. The band has very early captured the sound they want to present to fans and have a lot of upside coming to them in the years to come.


Artists: New Additions

These are new artists added this week.

Click on any images below to see artist details.

March Of Scylla
March Of Scylla Logo March Of Scylla

March Of Scylla

Progressive Metal

March Of Scylla is a dark/post-metal band from Amiens, France.

France


People: New Additions

These are new people added this week.

Click on any images below to see person details.

Billie Joe Armstrong

Billie Joe Armstrong

Punk Rock

Billie Joe Armstrong (born February 17, 1972) is an American musician. He is best known for being the lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter of the rock band Green Day, which he co-founded with Mike Dirnt in 1987. He is also a guitarist and vocalist for the punk rock band Pinhead Gunpowder, and provides lead vocals for Green Day's side projects Foxboro Hot Tubs, The Network, The Longshot and The Coverups. Armstrong has been considered by critics as one of the greatest punk rock guitarists of all time.

United States


Mike Dirnt

Mike Dirnt

Punk Rock

Michael Ryan Pritchard (born May 4, 1972), better known by his stage name Mike Dirnt, is an American rock musician who is the co-founder, bassist, backing vocalist, and occasional lead vocalist of Green Day. He has also played in several other bands, including The Frustrators. His stage name Dirnt was originally a nickname that his friends from grade school gave him, as he constantly played air bass/guitar and made a 'dirnt, dirnt, dirnt' noise while pretending to pluck the strings.

United States


Reinhold Mack (Mack)

Reinhold Mack (Mack)

Rock

Reinhold Mack (also known as Mack, born 25 August 1949) is a German record producer and engineer. He is best known for his collaborations with Billy Squier, AC/DC, Queen, Electric Light Orchestra, Sparks, and Chinaski.

Germany


Rob Cavallo

Rob Cavallo

Rock

Robert Siers Cavallo (born March 21, 1963) is an American record producer, musician, and record executive. He is among the biggest-selling producers in alternative music, having contributed to albums that have sold over 130 million units worldwide. He is also a three-time Grammy Award recipient.

United States


Tre Cool

Tre Cool

Punk Rock

Frank Edwin Wright III (born December 9, 1972), better known by his stage name Tre Cool, is an American musician, singer, and songwriter, best known as the long-time drummer for the rock band Green Day. He replaced the band's former drummer, John Kiffmeyer, in 1990. Cool has also played in the Lookouts, Samiam, Dead Mermaids, Bubu And The Brood and the Green Day side projects The Network and The Foxboro Hot Tubs.

United States



Core Discographies: New Additions

These are new releases available in the Core Discographies this week.

Remember, Core Discographies accepts Requests. Click HERE to request your favourite album to be included.

Click on any links below to see release details.


United States MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Extinction Level Event

Dark Angel
Extinction Level Event

[Album]
5 September 2025
Thrash Metal

'Extinction Level Event' is the fifth studio album by Dark Angel. It is the band's first studio album since 1991's Time Does Not Heal, and their first since 1985's We Have Arrived not to be released on Relativity Records (or its subsidiary label Combat). It is also Dark Angel's first release with rhythm guitarist Laura Christine (who is drummer Gene Hoglan's wife), following the death of Jim Durkin in 2023, to whom the album is dedicated to. Durkin receives posthumous songwriting credits for some of the album's songs, including the title track, as they were written prior to his death.

Dark Angel is an American thrash metal band from Downey, California, formed in 1981. The band's over-the-top style (extremely fast, heavy and lengthy songs with many tempo changes, lyrics, and extended instrumental parts) earned them the nickname "The L.A. Caffeine Machine". Despite never achieving mainstream success, the band is often credited as one of the leaders of the second wave of the 1980s thrash metal movement. Their music has also been cited as a formative influence to the death metal genre.


United States MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Cancelled

Motley Crue
Cancelled

[E.P.]
4 October 2024
Hard Rock

'Cancelled' is an E.P. by Motley Crue. It is their first release with guitarist John 5, who replaced Mick Mars following his retirement from the band in October 2022.

Motley Crue is an American heavy metal band formed in Hollywood, California in 1981. The band has sold over 100 million albums worldwide. They have also achieved seven platinum or multi-platinum certifications and nine Top 10 albums on the Billboard 200 charts.

Performer(s):

Vince Neil Vince Neil - Vocals [Member]

United States MP3
Available FLAC
Available
MTV Unplugged In New York (25th Anniversary) [Deluxe Edition]

Nirvana
MTV Unplugged In New York (25th Anniversary) [Deluxe Edition]

[Album; Live; Reissue]
1 November 2019
Grunge Rock

'MTV Unplugged In New York (25th Anniversary) [Deluxe Edition]' is a reissue by Nirvana. It contains the original album plus five rehearsals.

Nirvana was an American rock band formed in Aberdeen, Washington, in 1987. Founded by lead singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain and bassist Krist Novoselic, the band went through a succession of drummers, most notably Chad Channing, before recruiting Dave Grohl in 1990. Nirvana's success popularized alternative rock, and they were often referenced as the figurehead band of Generation X. Despite a short mainstream career spanning only three years, their music maintains a popular following and continues to influence modern rock culture. The band is one of the best-selling of all time, having sold more than 75 million records worldwide.

Performer(s):

Kurt Cobain Kurt Cobain - Vocals / Guitar [Member]
Krist Novaselic Krist Novaselic - Bass Guitar [Member]
Dave Grohl Dave Grohl - Drums [Member]

United States MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Jazz-iz Christ

Serj Tankian
Jazz-iz Christ

[Album]
23 July 2013
Nu Metal

Jazz-iz-Chris't is is the fourth studio album by Serj Tankian. The album has essential participation of the renowned pianist Tigran Hamasyan, flautist Valeri Tolstov, and trumpet player Tom Duprey. It also features additional performances from Stewart Copeland and actor/musician David Alpay and Vincent Pedulla. Unlike much of Tankian's previous discography, only 4 of the 15 tracks features Serj's vocals.

Serj Tankian (born August 21, 1967) is an Armenian-American musician and activist. He is best known as the lead vocalist of the alternative metal band System Of A Down, which was formed in 1994. Tankian is regarded as one of the best vocalists in heavy metal, with praise given to his unusual delivery and his wide vocal range. In 2006, he was ranked No. 26 on the Hit Parader list of 'Top 100 Heavy Metal Vocalists'. A study conducted by VVN Music found that Tankian possesses a high and diverse vocal range of 4.2 octaves. In 2002, Tankian co-founded the non-profit political activism organization Axis Of Justice, alongside guitarist and fellow activist Tom Morello.


Canada MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Addicted

Devin Townsend Project
Addicted

[Album]
17 November 2009
Progressive Metal

'Addicted' is the twelfth studio album by Devin Townsend, and the second album in the Devin Townsend Project series. The album was written and produced by Townsend, and features Ryan Van Poederooyen, Brian Waddell, Mark Cimino, and Anneke van Giersbergen.

Devin Garrett Townsend (born May 5, 1972) is a Canadian singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer. He founded extreme metal band Strapping Young Lad and was its primary songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist from 1994 to 2007. He has also had an extensive solo career and has released 30+ albums across all of his projects.

Performer(s):

Devin Townsend Devin Townsend - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

United States MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Wrath

Lamb Of God
Wrath

[Album]
23 February 2009
Groove Metal

'Wrath' is the sixth studio album by Lamb Of God. It peaked at number 2 on the Billboard 200, becoming the band's most successful album on the chart, and sold 68,000 units in the U.S. during its first week of release. As of 2010, it has sold over 202,000 copies in the United States.

Lamb Of God is an American heavy metal band from Richmond, Virginia. Formed in 1994 as Burn The Priest, the group is considered a significant member of the new wave of American heavy metal movement. In 2016, the staff of Loudwire named them the 39th-best metal band of all time.


Australia MP3
Available FLAC
Available
The Tour E.P. 2008

The Angels
The Tour E.P. 2008

[Album]
14 June 2008
Hard Rock

'The Tour E.P. 2008' is an E.P. by The Angels. Two of the tracks were previously released on The Tour E.P. in 1978.

The Angels are an Australian rock band that formed in 1974 in Adelaide, Australia as The Keystone Angels.

Performer(s):

Doc Neeseon Doc Neeseon - Vocals [Member]

United States MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Dying For The World

W.A.S.P.
Dying For The World

[Album]
11 June 2002
Heavy Metal

'Dying For The World' is the tenth studio album by W.A.S.P. It was front man Blackie Lawless' dedication to all those who perished in the attacks of the 9/11 events. The album was written and recorded in less than a year. This is very unusual as Lawless is a perfectionist, normally taking 2 years or more to finish an album and have it recorded.

W.A.S.P. is an American heavy rock band formed in 1982. They emerged from the early 1980s Los Angeles heavy metal scene. The band's popularity peaked that decade, yet they continue to record and tour. W.A.S.P. gained notoriety for their shock rock-themed image, lyrics and live performances. They have sold over twelve million records worldwide, with their first two albums, 'W.A.S.P.' (1984) and 'The Last Command' (1985), being certified as gold by the RIAA.


United States MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Warriors Of The World

Manowar
Warriors Of The World

[Album]
4 June 2002
Heavy Metal

'Warriors Of The World' is the ninth studio album by Manowar.

Manowar is an American heavy metal band from Auburn, New York. Formed in 1980, the group is known for lyrics based on fantasy (particularly sword and sorcery) and mythology (particularly Norse mythology and Greco-Roman mythology), as well as numerous songs celebrating the genre and its core audience. The band is also known for a loud and emphatic sound. In 1984, the band was included in the Guinness Book of World Records for delivering the loudest performance, a record which they have since broken on two occasions. They also hold the world record for the longest heavy metal concert after playing for five hours and 1 minute in Bulgaria (at Kavarna Rock Fest) in 2008.


Sweden MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Morning Star

Entombed
Morning Star

[Album]
3 September 2001
Death Metal

'Morning Star' is the seventh studio album by Entombed. The album is more experimental than previous efforts, and shows the band returning to a more traditional death metal sound overall, though without abandoning elements of death 'n' roll. It also introduces a handful of straightforward, fast-paced death/thrash tracks, a first for the band at the time.


Norway MP3
Available FLAC
Available
European Legions

Mayhem
European Legions

[Album; Compilation]
21 July 2001
Black Metal

'European Legions' is a compilation album by Mayhem. Tracks 1 to 7 are live tracks, and tracks 8 to 12 are pre-production tracks from the Grand Declaration Of War (2000) sessions.

Mayhem is a Norwegian black metal band formed in Langhus in 1984. They were one of the founders of the Norwegian black metal scene and their music has strongly influenced the black metal genre. Mayhem's early career was highly controversial, primarily due to their notorious live performances, the 1991 suicide of vocalist Per Yngve Ohlin ('Dead') and the 1993 murder of guitarist Oystein Aarseth ('Euronymous') by former member Varg Vikernes ('Count Grishnackh') of Burzum.


United Kingdom MP3
Available FLAC
Available
'98 Live Meltdown

Judas Priest
'98 Live Meltdown

[Album; Live]
29 September 1998
Heavy Metal

''98 Live Meltdown' is a live album by Judas Priest. It is the first live album to feature new lead singer Tim 'Ripper' Owens, recorded during the Jugulator World Tour.

Judas Priest are an English heavy metal band formed in 1969. Rob Halford's operatic vocal style and the twin guitar sound of K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton have been a major influence on many heavy metal bands. Judas Priest's image of leather, spikes, and other taboo articles of clothing was widely influential during the glam metal era of the 1980s. Despite an innovative and pioneering body of work in the latter half of the 1970s, the band struggled with indifferent record production and a lack of major commercial success until 1980, when the album 'British Steel' brought them notable mainstream attention. They have sold over 50 million albums and are frequently ranked as one of the greatest metal bands of all time.

Performer(s):

Tim 'Ripper' Owens Tim 'Ripper' Owens - Vocals [Member]
K.K. Downing K.K. Downing - Guitar [Member]
Glenn Tipton Glenn Tipton - Guitar [Member]
Ian Hill Ian Hill - Bass Guitar [Member]
Scott Travis Scott Travis - Drums [Member]

Poland MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Grom

Behemoth
Grom

[Album]
2 January 1995
Death Metal (Blackened)

'Grom' is the second studio album by Behemoth. The album is Behemoth's last release as black metal before their shift into a death metal sound.


Poland MP3
Available FLAC
Available
And The Forests Dream Eternally

Behemoth
And The Forests Dream Eternally

[E.P.]
?? August 1994
Death Metal (Blackened)

'And The Forests Dream Eternally' is the debut E.P. by Behemoth.


Poland MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Sventevith (Storming Near The Baltic)

Behemoth
Sventevith (Storming Near The Baltic)

[Album]
?? April 1994
Death Metal (Blackened)

'Sventevith (Storming Near The Baltic)' is the debut album by Behemoth.


United Kingdom MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Axis: Bold As Love [Reissue (1993)]

The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Axis: Bold As Love [Reissue (1993)]

[Album]
28 September 1993
Classic Rock

'Axis: Bold As Love [Reissue (1993)]' is a reissue by The Jimi Hendrix Experience. It contains the original album remastered.

James Marshall 'Jimi' Hendrix (born Johnny Allen Hendrix; November 27, 1942 - September 18, 1970) was an American guitarist, songwriter and singer. Although his mainstream career spanned only four years, he is widely regarded as the greatest and one of the most influential electric guitarists in the history of popular music, and one of the most celebrated musicians of the 20th century. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame describes him as "arguably the greatest instrumentalist in the history of rock music."

Performer(s):

Jimi Hendrix Jimi Hendrix - Vocals / Guitar [Member]
Noel Redding Noel Redding - Bass Guitar [Member]
Mitch Mitchell Mitch Mitchell - Drums [Member]

United Kingdom MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Electric Ladyland [Reissue (1993)]

The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Electric Ladyland [Reissue (1993)]

[Album]
28 September 1993
Classic Rock

'Electric Ladyland [Reissue (1993)]' is a reissue by The Jimi Hendrix Experience. It contains the original album remastered.

James Marshall 'Jimi' Hendrix (born Johnny Allen Hendrix; November 27, 1942 - September 18, 1970) was an American guitarist, songwriter and singer. Although his mainstream career spanned only four years, he is widely regarded as the greatest and one of the most influential electric guitarists in the history of popular music, and one of the most celebrated musicians of the 20th century. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame describes him as "arguably the greatest instrumentalist in the history of rock music."

Performer(s):

Jimi Hendrix Jimi Hendrix - Vocals / Guitar [Member]
Noel Redding Noel Redding - Bass Guitar [Member]
Mitch Mitchell Mitch Mitchell - Drums [Member]

United Kingdom MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Are You Experienced [Reissue (1993)]

The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Are You Experienced [Reissue (1993)]

[Album]
28 September 1993
Classic Rock

'Are You Experienced [Reissue (1993)]' is a reissue by The Jimi Hendrix Experience. It contains the original album remastered, plus the singles released during the time period.

James Marshall 'Jimi' Hendrix (born Johnny Allen Hendrix; November 27, 1942 - September 18, 1970) was an American guitarist, songwriter and singer. Although his mainstream career spanned only four years, he is widely regarded as the greatest and one of the most influential electric guitarists in the history of popular music, and one of the most celebrated musicians of the 20th century. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame describes him as "arguably the greatest instrumentalist in the history of rock music."

Performer(s):

Jimi Hendrix Jimi Hendrix - Vocals / Guitar [Member]
Noel Redding Noel Redding - Bass Guitar [Member]
Mitch Mitchell Mitch Mitchell - Drums [Member]

Location(s):


United Kingdom MP3
Available FLAC
Available
The Ultimate Experience

Jimi Hendrix
The Ultimate Experience

[Album; Compilation]
1 November 1992
Classic Rock

'The Ultimate Experience' is a compilation by Jimi Hendrix. It includes 20 tracks spanning his career. The album was among the last to be supervised by interim producer Alan Douglas, before the Hendrix family regained control of his recording legacy. It reached No. 25 on the U.K. Albums Chart and No. 72 on the Billboard 200. It was certified as gold by the British Phonographic Industry, 3? platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, and 2? platinum by Music Canada.

James Marshall 'Jimi' Hendrix (born Johnny Allen Hendrix; November 27, 1942 - September 18, 1970) was an American guitarist, songwriter and singer. Although his mainstream career spanned only four years, he is widely regarded as the greatest and one of the most influential electric guitarists in the history of popular music, and one of the most celebrated musicians of the 20th century. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame describes him as "arguably the greatest instrumentalist in the history of rock music."

Performer(s):

Jimi Hendrix Jimi Hendrix - Vocals / Guitar [Member]
Noel Redding Noel Redding - Bass Guitar [Member]
Mitch Mitchell Mitch Mitchell - Drums [Member]

Australia MP3
Available FLAC
Available
The Fireman's Curse

Hunters & Collectors
The Fireman's Curse

[Album]
5 September 1983
Rock

'The Fireman's Curse' is the second studio album by Hunters & Collectors. It was co-produced by Konrad Plank and the band in Neunkirchen, Germany. The album peaked at No. 77 on the Australian Kent Music Report Albums Chart and No. 46 on the New Zealand Albums Chart. It was the final album to feature percussionist Greg Perano, and the only album to feature guitarist Martin Lubran.


Canada MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Anvil

Anvil
Anvil

[E.P.]
?? September 1982
Heavy Metal

'Anvil' is the first E.P. by Anvil.

Anvil is a Canadian heavy metal band formed in Toronto in 1978. The band have been cited as having influenced many notable heavy metal groups including Megadeth, Slayer, Anthrax, and Metallica. Anvil's antics on and off stage, the setbacks they suffered, and their determination to keep going have been compared to the fictional band Spinal Tap.


United Kingdom MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Magic Bus, The Who On Tour [U.S.]

The Who
Magic Bus, The Who On Tour [U.S.]

[Album; Compilation]
?? September 1968
Classic Rock

'Magic Bus, The Who On Tour' is a compilation album by The Who. It was released as the band's fourth album in the United States on Decca to capitalize on the success of their single of the same name. It peaked at #39 on the Billboard 200. The somewhat deceptive title implies that the songs were recorded live, but all recordings are studio tracks.

The Who are an English rock band formed in London in 1962. They are considered one of the most influential rock bands of the 20th century and have sold over 100 million records worldwide. Their contributions to rock music include the development of the Marshall stack, large public address systems, the use of synthesisers, their influential playing styles, feedback and power chord guitar technique, and the development of the rock opera. They are cited as an influence by many hard rock, punk, power pop and mod bands. The Who were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990.


Australia MP3
Available FLAC
Available
Guide To Better Living [Deluxe Edition]

Grinspoon
Guide To Better Living [Deluxe Edition]

[Album; Reissue]
2017
Alternative Rock

'Guide To Better Living [Deluxe Edition]' is a reissue of the debut album by Grinspoon. It featuring the original album along with two concerts and a number of bonus tracks.

Grinspoon are an Australian rock band from Lismore, New South Wales, formed in 1995 and fronted by Phil Jamieson on vocals and guitar with Pat Davern on guitar, Joe Hansen on bass guitar and Kristian Hopes on drums. In 1995, Grinspoon won the Triple J-sponsored Unearthed competition for Lismore, with their post-grunge song 'Sickfest'. The name Grinspoon was taken from Dr. Lester Grinspoon, an associate professor emeritus of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, who supported marijuana for medical use.


Core Discographies: This Year's Releases Coming Soon

These are new releases coming to Core Discographies soon.

All new releases are available.

Digital Library: Tagged Releases

These are new releases completed in the Digital Library this week.

Digital Library Links: Digital Library

Click on any links below to see release details.


United States
MP3
Complete
FLAC
Complete
Extinction Level Event

Dark Angel
Extinction Level Event

[Album]
5 September 2025
Thrash Metal

'Extinction Level Event' is the fifth studio album by Dark Angel. It is the band's first studio album since 1991's Time Does Not Heal, and their first since 1985's We Have Arrived not to be released on Relativity Records (or its subsidiary label Combat). It is also Dark Angel's first release with rhythm guitarist Laura Christine (who is drummer Gene Hoglan's wife), following the death of Jim Durkin in 2023, to whom the album is dedicated to. Durkin receives posthumous songwriting credits for some of the album's songs, including the title track, as they were written prior to his death.


United States
MP3
Complete
FLAC
Complete
Cancelled

Motley Crue
Cancelled

[E.P.]
4 October 2024
Hard Rock

'Cancelled' is an E.P. by Motley Crue. It is their first release with guitarist John 5, who replaced Mick Mars following his retirement from the band in October 2022.

Performer(s):

Vince Neil Vince Neil - Vocals [Member]

United States
MP3
Complete
FLAC
Complete
MTV Unplugged In New York (25th Anniversary) [Deluxe Edition]

Nirvana
MTV Unplugged In New York (25th Anniversary) [Deluxe Edition]

[Album; Live; Reissue]
1 November 2019
Grunge Rock

'MTV Unplugged In New York (25th Anniversary) [Deluxe Edition]' is a reissue by Nirvana. It contains the original album plus five rehearsals.

Performer(s):

Kurt Cobain Kurt Cobain - Vocals / Guitar [Member]
Krist Novaselic Krist Novaselic - Bass Guitar [Member]
Dave Grohl Dave Grohl - Drums [Member]

Australia
MP3
Complete
FLAC
Complete
Guide To Better Living [Deluxe Edition]

Grinspoon
Guide To Better Living [Deluxe Edition]

[Album; Reissue]
2017
Alternative Rock

'Guide To Better Living [Deluxe Edition]' is a reissue of the debut album by Grinspoon. It featuring the original album along with two concerts and a number of bonus tracks.


United States
MP3
Complete
FLAC
Complete
Dying For The World

W.A.S.P.
Dying For The World

[Album]
11 June 2002
Heavy Metal

'Dying For The World' is the tenth studio album by W.A.S.P. It was front man Blackie Lawless' dedication to all those who perished in the attacks of the 9/11 events. The album was written and recorded in less than a year. This is very unusual as Lawless is a perfectionist, normally taking 2 years or more to finish an album and have it recorded.


Sweden
MP3
Complete
FLAC
Complete
Morning Star

Entombed
Morning Star

[Album]
3 September 2001
Death Metal

'Morning Star' is the seventh studio album by Entombed. The album is more experimental than previous efforts, and shows the band returning to a more traditional death metal sound overall, though without abandoning elements of death 'n' roll. It also introduces a handful of straightforward, fast-paced death/thrash tracks, a first for the band at the time.


United Kingdom
MP3
Complete
FLAC
Complete
'98 Live Meltdown

Judas Priest
'98 Live Meltdown

[Album; Live]
29 September 1998
Heavy Metal

''98 Live Meltdown' is a live album by Judas Priest. It is the first live album to feature new lead singer Tim 'Ripper' Owens, recorded during the Jugulator World Tour.

Performer(s):

Tim 'Ripper' Owens Tim 'Ripper' Owens - Vocals [Member]
K.K. Downing K.K. Downing - Guitar [Member]
Glenn Tipton Glenn Tipton - Guitar [Member]
Ian Hill Ian Hill - Bass Guitar [Member]
Scott Travis Scott Travis - Drums [Member]

Australia
MP3
Complete
FLAC
Complete
The Fireman's Curse

Hunters & Collectors
The Fireman's Curse

[Album]
5 September 1983
Rock

'The Fireman's Curse' is the second studio album by Hunters & Collectors. It was co-produced by Konrad Plank and the band in Neunkirchen, Germany. The album peaked at No. 77 on the Australian Kent Music Report Albums Chart and No. 46 on the New Zealand Albums Chart. It was the final album to feature percussionist Greg Perano, and the only album to feature guitarist Martin Lubran.


United Kingdom
MP3
Complete
FLAC
Complete
Magic Bus, The Who On Tour [U.S.]

The Who
Magic Bus, The Who On Tour [U.S.]

[Album; Compilation]
?? September 1968
Classic Rock

'Magic Bus, The Who On Tour' is a compilation album by The Who. It was released as the band's fourth album in the United States on Decca to capitalize on the success of their single of the same name. It peaked at #39 on the Billboard 200. The somewhat deceptive title implies that the songs were recorded live, but all recordings are studio tracks.


United States
MP3
Complete
FLAC
Complete
Disco Teen '66

Various Artists
Disco Teen '66

[Album; Selected Tracks; Compilation]
?? ?? 1966
Classic Rock


United States
MP3
Complete
FLAC
Complete
Disco Teen '66 [Mono]

Various Artists
Disco Teen '66 [Mono]

[Album; Selected Tracks; Compilation]
?? ?? 1966
Classic Rock


Digital Library: New Additions

These are new releases added in the Digital Library this week. These will be tagged at a future date.

Digital Library Links: Digital Library

Click on any links below to see release details.


Bob Dylan
First Album Master Recordings

[Album; Unofficial]
2025
Classic Rock


Coroner
Dissonance Theory

[Album]
17 October 2025
Thrash Metal

'Dissonance Theory' is the sixth studio album by Coroner. It is the band's first studio album since Grin (1993), and their first release with drummer Diego Rappachietti, who replaced original drummer Marky Edelmann in 2014.

Label(s):

Century Media Century Media (Region: International)

Dark Angel
Extinction Level Event

[Album]
5 September 2025
Thrash Metal

'Extinction Level Event' is the fifth studio album by Dark Angel. It is the band's first studio album since 1991's Time Does Not Heal, and their first since 1985's We Have Arrived not to be released on Relativity Records (or its subsidiary label Combat). It is also Dark Angel's first release with rhythm guitarist Laura Christine (who is drummer Gene Hoglan's wife), following the death of Jim Durkin in 2023, to whom the album is dedicated to. Durkin receives posthumous songwriting credits for some of the album's songs, including the title track, as they were written prior to his death.


David Bowie
Dancing In The Steet [Reissue]

[E.P.]
2025
Classic Rock


Fat Matress
How Can I Live? Complete Recordings

[Album; Compilation]
2025
Classic Rock


Glenn Hughes
Chosen

[Album]
2025
Hard Rock


March Of Scylla
Andromeda

[Album]
7 March 2025
Progressive Metal

'Andromeda' is the debut studio album by March Of Scylia.

Label(s):

Klonosphere Records Klonosphere Records (Region: Europe)

Pink Floyd
Echoes, At Pompeii (MCMLXXII)

[Single]
2025
Classic Rock


Sargeist
Flame Within Flame

[Album]
28 May 2025
Black Metal

'Flame Within Flame' is the sixth studio album by Sargeist.

Label(s):

W.T.C. Productions W.T.C. Productions (Region: Europe)


Sweet Savage
Bang

[Album]
2025
Heavy Metal


Various Artists
Anarchy On Abbey Road, A Punk Tribute

[Album; Compilation]
25 February 2025
Classic Rock

'Anarchy On Abbey Road, A Punk Tribute' is a compilation of punk bands covering The Beatles.

Label(s):

Cleopatra Records Cleopatra Records (Region: U.S.A.)

The Cranberries
Dreaming My Dreams With You

[E.P.; Promotional]
2025
Alternative Rock


The Rods
Wild Dogs Unchained

[Album]
2025
Heavy Metal


Dirkschneider
Balls To The Wall Reloaded

[Album]
2025
Heavy Metal

Performer(s):

Udo Dirkschneider Udo Dirkschneider - Vocals [Member]

Wardruna
Birna

[Album]
2025
Folk


Werewolves
The Ugliest Of All

[Album]
19 September 2025
Death Metal

'The Ugliest Of All' is the sixth album by Werewolves.

Label(s):

Back On Black Back On Black (Region: Europe)

Cemetery Skyline
Nordic Gothic

[Album]
2024
Gothic Metal


Motley Crue
Cancelled

[E.P.]
4 October 2024
Hard Rock

'Cancelled' is an E.P. by Motley Crue. It is their first release with guitarist John 5, who replaced Mick Mars following his retirement from the band in October 2022.

Performer(s):

Vince Neil Vince Neil - Vocals [Member]

The Beatles
Beatles '64 (Music From The Disney+ Documentary)

[Album; Compilation; Promotional]
2024
Classic Rock


The Cranberries
Wrapped Around Your Finger

[E.P.; Promotional]
2024
Alternative Rock


U.D.O.
The Legacy (Best Of)

[Album; Compilation]
2022
Heavy Metal


David Bowie
LiveAndWell.com

[Album]
2021
Classic Rock


The Cranberries
Remembering Dolores

[Album; Compilation]
2021
Alternative Rock


U.D.O.
Game Over

[Album]
2021
Heavy Metal


David Bowie
Ouvrez Le Chien (Live Dallas 95)

[Album; Live]
2020
Classic Rock


Bob Dylan
The Broadcast Collection (1961-1965)

[Album; Unauthorised]
2019
Classic Rock


Sargeist
Death Veneration

[E.P.]
2019
Black Metal

Label(s):

W.T.C. Productions W.T.C. Productions (Region: Europe)

The Cranberries
In The End

[Album]
2019
Alternative Rock


Sargeist
Unbound

[Album]
2018
Black Metal

Label(s):

W.T.C. Productions W.T.C. Productions (Region: Europe)

Daron Malakian And Scars On Broadway
Dictator

[Album]
2018
Alternative Rock


Wardruna
Skald

[Album]
2018
Folk


Bob Spencer
Saints And Murderers

[Album]
2017
Hard Rock


Bob Dylan
The Many Faces Of Bob Dylan

[Album; Unauthorised]
2016
Classic Rock


Bob Dylan
Broadside Plus

[Album; Unauthorised]
2014
Classic Rock


Sargeist
Feeding The Crawling Shadows

[Album]
2014
Black Metal

Label(s):

W.T.C. Productions W.T.C. Productions (Region: Europe)

Sargeist
The Rebirth Of A Cursed Existence

[Album]
2013
Black Metal


Richard Cheese
Back In Black Tie

[Album]
2012
Comedy



Sargeist
Let The Devil In

[Album]
2010
Black Metal


Fat Matress
One [Deluxe Reissue]

[Album]
2009
Classic Rock


Richard Cheese
OK Bartender

[Album]
2009
Comedy


Richard Cheese
Lounge Supreme

[Album]
2009
Comedy


Richard Cheese
Viva La Vodka

[Album]
2008
Comedy


Scars On Broadway
Scars On Broadway

[Album]
2008
Alternative Rock


Charley Patton
The Definitive

[Album; Compilation; Boxed Set]
2005
Blues


Various Artists
'Enjoy Every Sandwich', The Songs Of Warren Zevon

[Album; Selected Tracks; Compilation]
2004
Classic Rock


Chateaux
Fight To The Last, The Anthology

[Album; Compilation]
2003
Heavy Metal


Sargeist
Tyranny Returns

[Album]
2001
Black Metal


Glenn Hughes
Incense And Peaches

[Album]
2000
Hard Rock


Sweet Savage
Rune

[Album]
1998
Heavy Metal


Various Artists
David Bowie Songbook

[Album]
1997
Classic Rock


Fat Matress
Two [Reissue]

[Album]
1992
Classic Rock


Fat Matress
One [Reissue]

[Album]
1992
Classic Rock


Chateaux
Highly Strunt

[Album]
1985
Heavy Metal


Chateaux
Fire Power

[Album]
1984
Heavy Metal


Eugene Ormandy & The Philadelphia Orchestra
David Bowie Narrates Prokofiev's 'Peter And The Wolf'

[Album]
2 May 1978
Classic Rock

'David Bowie Narrates Prokofiev's Peter And The Wolf' is a classical music album by Eugene Ormandy & The Philadelphia Orchestra. The first side contains a performance of Sergei Prokofiev's Peter And The Wolf, with narration by David Bowie, who contributed to the project for his young son. The second side contains a music-only recording of Benjamin Britten's The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra.

Performer(s):

David Bowie David Bowie - Vocals [Guest]

Label(s):

RCA Red Seal RCA Red Seal (Region: International)

Various Artists
Disco Teen '66

[Album; Selected Tracks; Compilation]
?? ?? 1966
Classic Rock


Various Artists
Disco Teen '66 [Mono]

[Album; Selected Tracks; Compilation]
?? ?? 1966
Classic Rock


TheBigBlack's Last.FM Listening History

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