Newsletter 30 May 2026

Week Ending:
30 May 2026

Album Of The Week

TheBigBlack

Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition]

Slayer - Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition] (2026)

[Thrash Metal]

There are those that believe Metal Blade Records is a company that reissues albums to preserve the early history of metal, and others that believe they are always looking for a quick way to grab more cash from their early catalogue. Regardless of their motivations, fans are better for it, as this reissue proves. Actually released 41 years after the original album (but remastered back in February 2025), the triple album set contains the Hell Awaits album remastered packaged with a previously unavailable concert recorded Germany in June 1985. The original album was mastered by legendary engineer Bernie Grundman, but it was never going to be listed as one of his greatest efforts. It lacked punch and was totally lifeless. Over the years many have defended the sound, calling it dark and ominous, but it was lacklustre at best. This new mastering breathes life into the album and gives it a unexpected boost that remastering usually doesn't. The drums (always the weakest part of the original) have more clarity and actual power, rather than the tiny sound on the original, and the bass guitar is a lot more audible. Often the difference between the original and a remaster is so minuscule that there is little value in comparison, but this isn't the case here. The new mastering is without a doubt the best sounding version of the album ever made available. Regardless, a remix still would have been an even better option, but after 40 years it is likely the original tapes are long lost. As good as the remastering is though, the full concert recorded a couple of months after the release of the original album, is the jewel in the crown of the collection. This is far from a perfect listing experience, sounding more like an 'official bootleg', but it is priceless as a document of the era. Listening through headphones is a brutal experience, with the drums thundering over everything else, turning the guitars into a muddy mess of noise. Tom Araya's vocals are loud and bright and cut through with such volume they are jarring. Using speakers to listen is a better option, and although the sound is still rough, it hides many of the inconsistencies of the recording. Thankfully, the sound quality does get better as the concert progresses. By a few songs in the mix improves noticeably, likely as a result of the mixing desk adjusting the levels on the night. Regardless, it is still a low quality affair - but in some ways that is better than a polished recording anyway, as what this shows is band that is full of piss and vinegar, ready to take on the world one venue at a time. Tonally the guitars occupy a similar space, so the faster parts tend to blur as the two guitarists try to keep a similar tempo. The slower parts, like the break down mid-way through 'At Dawn They Sleep' cut through clearer, and the guitar tone screams classic thrash when it is clear. Jeff Hanneman tends to stick closer to his recorded solos (usually with subtle melody), whereas Kerry King's frantic chaotic style tends to be mostly consumed by the white noise. The vocals are ragged in places, most notably when Araya tries to put in a big scream like the ending of 'Fight Till Death', and his between song banter is often so cringe inducing it is actually embarrassing (his introduction to 'Necrophiliac' being a perfect example), but for the most part his voice holds up well. He doesn't so much sing as 'bark' many of the lyrics, but that has always been a trademark of his style. With the drums of Dave Lomardo coming through louder than anything else, it is easy to hear his playing clearly, and he proves (even this early into his career) that he is worthy of every accolade he receives. His drum work is tight and smooth, and he is the star of the recording in many ways. The song selection is superb, with a concert of decent length allowing the band to play the two full-length albums almost in entirety and still have room to slip in rarities like 'Aggressive Perfector'. The only faux par was closing with 'Praise Of Death' instead of placing 'Chemical Warfare' in the encore final spot. Otherwise, any fan would agree it is a perfect setlist for Slayer in the mid-80s. The recording isn't going to win the band any awards for sound quality, but that isn't the point. This is the closest anyone will ever come to boarding a time machine and heading back to 1985 to see the emerging thrash scene in full flight.

mindkiller8

Megadeth

Megadeth - Megadeth (2026)

[Thrash Metal]

This review will take a different tact to other reviews I write. C'mon, we are talking Megadeth here. One of the huge pioneers of the thrash metal scene. They were the landscape of my youth and I will always forever thank them for such classic sounding, drum roles, bass lines and shredding guitar solos that cannot be beaten and deserve the upmost respect. This review will not delve into the history of the band. The ups and downs and challenges they met along the way. The fact that they have influenced metalheads for 40 plus years is something worth acknowledging. So this review will be a break-down of each song on their self-titled finale. O.K., strap yourself in and enjoy the ride. The opening track 'Tipping Point' I find a brilliant rendition of their classic sound. Dave with his angry voice and equally angry riffs. To this day he has never lost the ability to put a solo together. The breakdown toward the end is epic and the pick up to close the opener is simply awesome. It sets the pathway for a classic album to proceed. It is in the mould of their 'modern sound' which is Countdown To Extinction onwards in my view, and that's not necessarily a bad thing really. 'I Don't Care' reminds me of the 'Sweating Bullets' song. It's a very simple but catchy song. 'Hey God' - it's confessional time in the house of Mustaine. Is this a 360 from 'The Conjuring' days? Interesting topic, but again all the standard elements of a modern day Megadeth are there. Just nothing outstanding. 'Let There Be Shred' starts off fast paced it doesn't stop. The song name can be considered a little corny, but looking into it, this is what Dave has been all about, and this is a great example of his best work. It's the first time I notice his voice is on point and the aging doesn't show, so settle in for the best of Dave, with the band supporting him perfectly. 'Puppet Parade' shows again the highlight here is Mustaine's angry spoken vocal. He is putting in his best effort, however, the song itself fails to really ignite any excitement in a snapping of necks kinda way. 'Another Bad Day' has me saying not much on this one. I'd be repeating myself. Not anything to remember. 'Made To Kill' opens with a nice drum solo for nothing different, before Mustaine takes over with his magic. A pretty straight forward in and out from this point onwards which doesn't anything different to what we have already heard. 'Obey The Call' provides a great example of it becoming a little too obvious by now that we are hearing a similar but different song, with none of it being something you'd return to for years to come. The music is tight as always, and again the riffs can't be faulted, but now it has become predictable which is unfortunate. 'I Am War' is a mid-tempo song which is the last thing you want to hear. as the second-to-last original song they will ever release. We should be at fireworks point right now, pulling out the best you ever can Dave to an ultimate crescendo to the final song, but alas. 'The Last Note' should be an explosion of reflection of their best work, both early and modern. Giving this a close listen, you only need to get past the 5 or 10 seconds of spoken word before disappointment sets in. Even the 'I came, I ruled, now I disappear' really doesn't pull at the heart strings. Dude, Mustaine, is this what the band have come to after this 40+ year legacy? It is embarrassing to be honest. I dunno - I really was hoping for a return to their best. Not note for note, but an acknowledgement of what they have written over the years. It is sad for me to say that this album will struggle to make my Top 10 releases of all time for them. It shouldn't be that way. I'll give them a favourable review in respect of the magnificent legacy they have provided to the fans, bit this is really a sad ending to a man who is bigger that he really knows I think in the legacy of thrash metal altogether. Otherwise he would have written a for the fans record, rather than a self-reflection of his own importance. I think that is what it comes down to for me.

People: New Additions

These are new people added this week.

Click on any images below to see person details.

Gene Hoglan

Thrash Metal

Eugene Victor Hoglan II (born August 31, 1967) is an American drummer, who is known as the drummer for thrash metal band Dark Angel. He is acclaimed for his creativity in drum arrangements, including use of abstract devices for percussion effects and his trademark lengthy double-kick drum rhythms. Though his playing style is very technically demanding, he retains high accuracy at extreme tempos, earning him the nicknames 'The Atomic Clock' and 'Human Drum Machine'. Hoglan has played for numerous metal bands across his career. He first established himself as the drummer of Dark Angel in the 1980s, and began to expand his repertoire in the early 1990s after that band split up. Since then, he has played for Death, Strapping Young Lad and the solo projects of its frontman Devin Townsend, Fear Factory, Dethklok and Testament, amid two Dark Angel reunions and participation in several other side projects.

John Bush

Heavy Metal

John Bush (born August 24, 1963) is an American heavy metal singer. He came to prominence in the 1980s as the lead singer and lyricist of Armored Saint, a heavy metal band from Los Angeles, California. In 1992, he joined thrash metal band Anthrax, with whom he remained until 2005 and briefly rejoined in 2009-2010. Bush has also been active with the reformed Armored Saint intermittently from 1999 to the present, and involved with other projects such as Metal Allegiance and Category 7.

Josh Klinghoffer

Alternative Rock

Josh Adam Klinghoffer (born October 3, 1979) is an American musician best known for being the guitarist for the rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers from 2007 to 2019, with whom he recorded two studio albums, I'm with You (2011) and The Getaway (2016), and the B-sides compilation I'm Beside You (2013). Klinghoffer took the place of his friend and frequent collaborator John Frusciante in 2009, after a period as the band's touring rhythm guitarist. At age 32, Klinghoffer was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame with the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2012, making him the youngest inductee at the time. Following his departure from Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2019, Klinghoffer became a touring and session member of both Pearl Jam (since 2021) and Jane's Addiction (2023). A multi-instrumentalist, Klinghoffer fronts the alternative rock band Dot Hacker. He is also a former member of the bands Ataxia, Warpaint and The Bicycle Thief, and has both recorded and toured as a session musician with notable artists including P.J. Harvey, Beck, Iggy Pop, Elton John, Butthole Surfers, Vincent Gallo, Sparks, Golden Shoulders, Cate Le Bon, The Armed and Redd Kross.

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.

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As The Sun Falls
Songs From The Veil

[Album]
23 May 2026
Death Metal (Melodic)

'Songs From The Veil' is the third studio album by As The Sun Falls.

As The Sun Falls is a melodic death metal band from Zurich (early); Nummela, Etela-Suomi, Finland (later), Switzerland, formed in 2018.

Label(s):

Theogonia Records (Region: Europe)

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Armored Saint
Emotion Factory Reset

[Album]
22 May 2026
Heavy Metal

'Emotion Factory Reset' is the ninth studio album by Armored Saint.

Armored Saint is an American heavy metal band formed in Los Angeles, California in 1982. As one of the leaders of the Los Angeles heavy metal scene, the band achieved moderate success during the 1980s. They broke up when vocalist John Bush joined Anthrax in 1992 to replace Joey Belladonna, but reunited in 1999, and has continued to tour and record since then.

Performer(s):

John Bush - Vocals [Member]

Joey Vera - Bass Guitar [Member]

Label(s):

Metal Blade Records (Region: International)

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Dimmu Borgir
Grand Serpent Rising

[Album]
22 May 2026
Black Metal (Symphonic)

'Grand Serpent Rising' is the tenth studio album by Dimmu Borgir. It is the band's first album to have a few songs in its native Norwegian since Stormblast MMV (2005), while the majority of the album is predominantly in English.

Dimmu Borgir is a Norwegian symphonic black metal band from Jessheim, formed in 1993. The name is derived from Dimmuborgir, a volcanic formation in Iceland, the name of which means 'dark cities' in Icelandic, Faroese and Old Norse. The band has been through numerous lineup changes over the years; vocalist Shagrath and rhythm guitarist Silenoz are the only original members who still remain.

Label(s):

Nuclear Blast Records (Region: International)

Location(s):

Studio Fredman

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Slayer
Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition]

[Album; Reissue; Deluxe Edition]
15 May 2026
Thrash Metal

'Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition]' is a reissue by Slayer. It contains the original album remastered plus a complete unrelease concert recorded in Germany in 1985.

Slayer was an American thrash metal band formed in 1981 by guitarists Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman, drummer Dave Lombardo and bassist/vocalist Tom Araya. Slayer's fast and aggressive musical style made them one of the "big four" bands of thrash metal, alongside Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax. Slayer's final lineup consisted of King, Araya, drummer Paul Bostaph and guitarist Gary Holt, who initially joined as a touring member in 2011 before joining the band permanently after Hanneman's death in 2013. Drummer Jon Dette was also a member of the band. Slayer sold over 5 million albums in the United States, and over 20 million worldwide.

Performer(s):

Tom Araya - Vocals / Bass Guitar [Member]

Jeff Hanneman - Guitar [Member]

Kerry King - Guitar [Member]

Dave Lombardo - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

Metal Blade Records (Region: International)

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Death Angel
The Enigma Years (1987-1990)

[Albums; Boxed Set; Reissue]
30 October 2020
Thrash Metal

'The Enigma Years (1987-1990)' is a boxed set by Death Angel. It contains the two studio albums, live album, and rarities compilation previously released on Enigma Records.

Death Angel is an American thrash metal band from Daly City, California, initially active from 1982 to 1991 and again since 2001. The band has gone through several line-up changes, leaving guitarist Rob Cavestany as the only constant member; he and vocalist Mark Osegueda (who joined the group in 1984) are the only members of Death Angel to appear on all of their studio albums. Death Angel is often referred to as one of the key bands in the Bay Area thrash metal movement of the 1980s, and secured opening slots at club venues that decade, including opening for their peers Megadeth, Metallica, Slayer, Exodus, Testament, Overkill, D.R.I., Mercyful Fate and Possessed. They are also often credited as one of the leaders of the second wave of thrash metal movement from the 1980s, and considered to be one of the "big eight" of the genre (along with Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, Anthrax, Testament, Exodus and Overkill), as well as one of the so-called "Big Six of Bay Area thrash metal" (alongside Exodus, Testament, L??z Rockit, Forbidden and Vio-lence).

Performer(s):

Mark Osegueda - Vocals [Member]

Label(s):

Hear No Evil Recordings (HNE) (Region: Europe)

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Black Sabbath
Paranoid [Super Deluxe Edition]

[Album; Reissue; Deluxe Edition]
11 November 2016
Heavy Metal

'Paranoid [Super Deluxe Edition]' is a reissue by Black Sabbath. It contains the original album remastered, the 1973 quad mix, and two concerts.

Black Sabbath were an English heavy rock band formed in 1968 by guitarist Tony Iommi, drummer Bill Ward, bassist Geezer Butler and vocalist Ozzy Osbourne. They are often cited as pioneers of heavy metal, as they distinguished themselves through occult themes with horror-inspired lyrics and down-tuned guitars. The defined the genre with their early albums. Following Osbourne's departure in 1979, the band underwent multiple line-up changes, with Iommi being the only constant member throughout their history. Black Sabbath have sold over 70 million records worldwide, making them one of the most commercially successful heavy metal bands.

Performer(s):

Ozzy Osbourne - Vocals [Member]

Tony Iommi - Guitar [Member]

Geezer Butler - Bass Guitar [Member]

Bill Ward - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

Warner Bros. Records (Region: International)

Rhino Records (Region: International)

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1927
The Essential

[Album; Compilation]
?? June 2013
Rock

'The Essential' is a compilation album by 1927. As well as the band's biggest hits it also includes two new songs.

Label(s):

Albert Productions (Region: Australia)

Sony Music (Region: Australia)

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Cannibal Corpse
Dead Human Collection (25 Years Of Death Metal)

[Albums; Boxed Set; Reissue]
19 March 2013
Death Metal

'Dead Human Collection (25 Years Of Death Metal)' is a boxed set by Cannibal Corpse. It includes the twelve album released by the band at the time, and a bonus live album.

Cannibal Corpse is an American death metal band formed in Buffalo, New York, in 1988, now based out of Tampa, Florida. The band has had little radio or television exposure throughout its existence, although a cult following began to build with the releases of their early albums. They achieved worldwide sales of two million plus units for combined sales of all their albums. At different times, several countries, such as Germany and Russia, have banned Cannibal Corpse from performing within their borders, or have banned the sale and display of their album covers.

Performer(s):

Chris Barnes - Vocals [Member]

George 'Corpsegrinder' Fisher - Vocals [Member]

Jack Owen - Guitar [Member]

Label(s):

Metal Blade Records (Region: International)

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Various Artists
In Honour Of Icon E, A Tribute To Emperor

[Album; Tribute]
25 June 2012
Black Metal

'In Honour Of Icon E, A Tribute To Emperor' is a tribute album to Emperor. It features recording by various black metal bands.

Label(s):

Tryzna Production (Region: Europe)

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Bono & The Edge
Spider-Man, Turn Off The Dark (Soundtrack)

[Album; Soundtrack]
14 June 2011
Rock

'Spider-Man, Turn Off The Dark (Soundtrack)' is the soundtrack to the Broadway musical of the same name written by U2's Bono and The Edge.

U2 are an Irish rock band from Dublin, formed in 1976. Initially rooted in post-punk, U2's musical style has evolved throughout their career, yet has maintained an anthemic quality built on Bono's expressive vocals and the Edge's chiming, effects-based guitar sounds. Bono's lyrics, often embellished with spiritual imagery, focus on personal and sociopolitical themes. Popular for their live performances, the group have staged several elaborate tours over their career. U2 are one of the world's best-selling music artists, having sold an estimated 150-170 million records worldwide. They have won 22 Grammy Awards, more than any other band, and in 2005, they were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in their first year of eligibility. Rolling Stone ranked U2 at number 22 on its list of the "100 Greatest Artists Of All Time".

Performer(s):

Bono - Vocals [Member]

The Edge - Guitar [Member]

Label(s):

Island Records (Region: International)

Mercury Records (Region: International)

Interscope Records (Region: International)

Universal Music Group (UMG) (Region: International)

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Various Artists
Body Of War, Songs That Inspired An Iraq War Veteran

[Album; Compilation; Soundtrack]
18 March 2008
-Various-

'Body Of War, Songs That Inspired An Iraq War Veteran is an album produced for the documentary film Body Of War, directed by Ellen Spiro and Phil Donahue. Curated by Iraq war veteran Tomas Young, it was released two days before the fifth anniversary of the United States' invasion of Iraq.

Performer(s):

Eddie Vedder - Vocals [Guest]

Mike McCready - Guitar [Guest]

Stone Gossard - Guitar [Guest]

Jeff Ament - Bass Guitar [Guest]

Eddie Vedder - Vocals / Guitar [Guest]

Label(s):

Sire Records (Region: International)

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Strapping Young Lad
The New Black

[Album]
11 July 2006
Metal (Industrial)

'The New Black' is the fifth and final studio album by Strapping Young Lad. It debuted at No. 200 on the Billboard charts.

Performer(s):

Devin Townsend - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

Gene Hoglan - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

Century Media (Region: International)

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Acid Bath
Demos (1993-1996)

[Album; Compilation]
6 December 2005
Metal (Sludge)

'Demos (1993-1996)' is a compilation of demos by Acid Bath.

Label(s):

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

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The Screaming Jets
Rock On (Live At Evan Theatre, Penrith)

[Album; Live]
17 October 2005
Rock

'Rock On (Live At Evan Theatre, Penrith)' is the second live album by The Screaming Jets.

The Screaming Jets are an Australian hard rock band formed in Newcastle, Australia, in 1989. The band has three albums that peaked in the top five on the Australian ARIA Charts.

Performer(s):

Dave Gleeson - Vocals [Member]

Label(s):

Liberation Blue (Region: Australia)

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Strapping Young Lad
Alien

[Album]
22 March 2005
Metal (Industrial)

'Alien' is the fourth studio album by Strapping Young Lad. The album was written by Devin Townsend and Gene Hoglan over a six-month time period. It reached No. 32 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart and No. 35 on the Top Independent Albums chart.

Performer(s):

Devin Townsend - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

Gene Hoglan - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

Shock (Region: Australia)

Century Media (Region: International)

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Radio Birdman
The EP's

[E.P.; Compilation]
?? April 1992
Punk

'The EP's' is a compilation of the two E.P.'s released by Radio Birdman.

Radio Birdman is an Australian punk rock band formed by Deniz Tek and Rob Younger in Sydney, Australia in 1974. Classic Rock magazine describes them as 'Australia's first influential punk band'.

Label(s):

Trafalgar Records (Region: Australia)

EastWest Records (Region: Australia)

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Various Artists
Projections Of A Stained Mind

[Album; Compilation]
?? March 1991
-Various-

'Projections Of A Stained Mind' is a compilation album of European extreme metal acts. Not only does it feature a number of Sweden's earliest death metal bands but also the only Mayhem recordings with vocalist Dead.

Label(s):

CBR Records (Region: Europe)

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The Beatles with Tony Sheridan and The Beat Brothers
The Early Tapes Of

[Album; Compilation]
10 December 1984
Classic Rock

'The Early Tapes Of' is a compilation of the pre fame recordings of The Beatles and Tony Sheridan.

The Beatles were an English rock band formed in Liverpool in 1960, comprising John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr. They are regarded as the most influential band of all time and were integral to the development of 1960s counterculture and the recognition of popular music as an art form. Rooted in skiffle, beat, and 1950s rock 'n' roll, their sound incorporated elements of classical music and traditional pop in innovative ways. The band also explored music styles ranging from folk and Indian music to psychedelia and hard rock. They are the best-selling music act of all time, with estimated sales of 600 million units worldwide. They are the most successful act in the history of the U.S. Billboard charts, holding the record for most number-one albums on the U.K. Albums Chart (15), most number-one hits on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart (20), and most singles sold in the U.K. (21.9 million). The band received many accolades, including seven Grammy Awards, four Brit Awards, an Academy Award and fifteen Ivor Novello Awards. They were inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 1988, and each principal member was individually inducted between 1994 and 2015. In 2004 and 2011, the group topped Rolling Stone's lists of the greatest artists in history. Time magazine named them among the 20th century's 100 most important people.

Performer(s):

John Lennon - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

George Harrison - Guitar [Member]

Paul McCartney - Bass Guitar [Member]

Label(s):

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

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Various Artists
Lead Weight (H.M. Rock Compilation From Neat)

[Album; Compilation]
?? February 1981
-Various-

'Lead Weight (H.M. Rock Compilation From Neat)' is a compilation album released by Neat Records. It features early recordings by many New Wave Of British Heavy Metal (N.W.O.B.H.M.) bands.

Label(s):

Neat Records (Region: Europe)

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The Rolling Stones
Aftermath [U.S.]

[Album]
20 June 1966
Classic Rock

'Aftermath' is the fourth studio album by The Rolling Stones. The group recorded the album at RCA Studios in California in December 1965 and March 1966, during breaks between their international tours. It is the band's fourth British and sixth American studio album, and closely follows a series of international hit singles that helped bring The Stones newfound wealth and fame rivalling that of their contemporaries The Beatles.

The Rolling Stones are an English rock band formed in London in 1962. Active across seven decades, they are one of the most popular and enduring bands of the rock era. In the early 1960s, the band pioneered the gritty, rhythmically driven sound that came to define hard rock. Their estimated record sales of 200 million make them one of the best-selling music artists of all time. They have won three Grammy Awards and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. They were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 1989 and the U.K. Music Hall of Fame in 2004. Billboard and Rolling Stone have ranked them as one of the greatest artists of all time.

Performer(s):

Mick Jagger - Vocals [Member]

Brian Jones - Guitar [Member]

Keith Richards - Guitar [Member]

Bill Wyman - Bass Guitar [Member]

Charlie Watts - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

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

Core Discographies: This Year's Releases Coming Soon

These are new releases coming to Core Discographies soon.

Dan Swano

Moontower [Reissue]

[Album; Reissue]
Death Metal (Progressive)

Status: Tagging

Dangerous Toys

Demolition

[Album]
Hard Rock

Status: Tagging

Flea

Honora

[Album]
Alternative Rock

Status: Tagging

Funeral Home

Your Funeral

[Album]
Death Metal

Status: Tagging

Godsmack

Live At Mohegan Sun

[Album; Live]
Alternative Rock

Status: Tagging

Ian Gillan Band

Down The Road, The Complete Ian Gillan Band Story

[Albums; Boxed Set; Reissue]
Classic Rock

Status: Tagging

John Zorn

Sing Me Now Asleep

[Album]
Jazz

Status: Tagging

MOL

Dreamcrush

[Album]
Black Metal

Status: Tagging

Rainbow

Rarities

[Album; Compilation]
Classic Rock

Status: Tagging

Various Artists

Ride The Rainbow, The Ultimate Tribute To Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow

[Album; Compilation; Tribute]
Classic Rock

Status: Tagging

The Ruins Of Beverast

Tempelschlaf

[Album]
Black Metal

Status: Tagging

Therion

Con Orquesta (Live In Mexico)

[Album; Live]
Symphonic Metal

Status: Tagging

Van Halen

Live At Wembley 1995

[Album; Live]
Hard Rock

Status: Tagging

Vanir

Wyld

[Album]
Death Metal (Melodic)

Status: Tagging

Various Artists

CBGB, A New York City Soundtrack (1975-1986)

[Album; Compilation]
-Various-

Status: Tagging

Wolfbastard

Satanic Scum Punks

[Album]
Black Metal

Status: Tagging

Worm

Necropalace

[Album]
Black Metal

Status: Tagging

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.

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Armored Saint
Emotion Factory Reset

[Album]
22 May 2026
Heavy Metal

'Emotion Factory Reset' is the ninth studio album by Armored Saint.

Performer(s):

John Bush - Vocals [Member]

Joey Vera - Bass Guitar [Member]

Label(s):

Metal Blade Records (Region: International)

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As The Sun Falls
Songs From The Veil

[Album]
23 May 2026
Death Metal (Melodic)

'Songs From The Veil' is the third studio album by As The Sun Falls.

Label(s):

Theogonia Records (Region: Europe)

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Dimmu Borgir
Grand Serpent Rising

[Album]
22 May 2026
Black Metal (Symphonic)

Label(s):

Nuclear Blast Records (Region: International)

Location(s):

Studio Fredman

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Slayer
Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition]

[Album; Reissue; Deluxe Edition]
15 May 2026
Thrash Metal

'Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition]' is a reissue by Slayer. It contains the original album remastered plus a complete unrelease concert recorded in Germany in 1985.

Performer(s):

Tom Araya - Vocals / Bass Guitar [Member]

Jeff Hanneman - Guitar [Member]

Kerry King - Guitar [Member]

Dave Lombardo - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

Metal Blade Records (Region: International)

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Slayer
Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition / HD Version]

[Album; Reissue; Deluxe Edition]
15 May 2026
Thrash Metal

'Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition]' is a reissue by Slayer. It contains the original album remastered plus a complete unrelease concert recorded in Germany in 1985.

Performer(s):

Tom Araya - Vocals / Bass Guitar [Member]

Jeff Hanneman - Guitar [Member]

Kerry King - Guitar [Member]

Dave Lombardo - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

Metal Blade Records (Region: International)

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Metallica
Official Bootleg Series 2025 [06] Lane Stadium, Blacksburg, Virginia (May 7, 2025)

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
17 May 2025
Thrash Metal

Performer(s):

James Hetfield - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

Kirk Hammett - Guitar [Member]

Robert Trujillo - Bass Guitar [Member]

Lars Ulrich - Drums [Member]

MP3

FLAC

Pearl Jam
Official Bootleg Series 2025 [02] Hard Rock Live, Hollywood, Florida (April 26, 2025)

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
6 May 2026
Grunge Rock

Performer(s):

Eddie Vedder - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

Mike McCready - Guitar [Member]

Stone Gossard - Guitar [Member]

Josh Klinghoffer - Guitar [Guest]

Jeff Ament - Bass Guitar [Member]

Matt Cameron - Drums [Member]

MP3

FLAC

Pearl Jam
Official Bootleg Series 2025 [01] Hard Rock Live, Hollywood, Florida (April 24, 2025)

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
4 May 2026
Grunge Rock

Performer(s):

Eddie Vedder - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

Mike McCready - Guitar [Member]

Stone Gossard - Guitar [Member]

Josh Klinghoffer - Guitar [Guest]

Jeff Ament - Bass Guitar [Member]

Matt Cameron - Drums [Member]

MP3

FLAC

Death Angel
The Enigma Years (1987-1990)

[Albums; Boxed Set; Reissue]
30 October 2020
Thrash Metal

'The Enigma Years (1987-1990)' is a boxed set by Death Angel. It contains the two studio albums, live album, and rarities compilation previously released on Enigma Records.

Performer(s):

Mark Osegueda - Vocals [Member]

Label(s):

Hear No Evil Recordings (HNE) (Region: Europe)

MP3

FLAC

Metallica
Official Bootleg Series 2019 [01] Bok Center, Tulsa, Oklahoma (January 18, 2019)

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
28 January 2019
Thrash Metal

Performer(s):

James Hetfield - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

Kirk Hammett - Guitar [Member]

Robert Trujillo - Bass Guitar [Member]

Lars Ulrich - Drums [Member]

MP3

FLAC

Metallica
Official Bootleg Series 2018 [01] Altice Arena, Lisbon, Portugal (February 1, 2018)

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
11 February 2018
Thrash Metal

Performer(s):

James Hetfield - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

Kirk Hammett - Guitar [Member]

Robert Trujillo - Bass Guitar [Member]

Lars Ulrich - Drums [Member]

MP3

FLAC

Black Sabbath
Paranoid [Super Deluxe Edition]

[Album; Reissue; Deluxe Edition]
11 November 2016
Heavy Metal

'Paranoid [Super Deluxe Edition]' is a reissue by Black Sabbath. It contains the original album remastered, the 1973 quad mix, and two concerts.

Performer(s):

Ozzy Osbourne - Vocals [Member]

Tony Iommi - Guitar [Member]

Geezer Butler - Bass Guitar [Member]

Bill Ward - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

Warner Bros. Records (Region: International)

Rhino Records (Region: International)

MP3

FLAC

1927
The Essential

[Album; Compilation]
?? June 2013
Rock

'The Essential' is a compilation album by 1927. As well as the band's biggest hits it also includes two new songs.

Label(s):

Albert Productions (Region: Australia)

Sony Music (Region: Australia)

MP3

FLAC

Cannibal Corpse
Dead Human Collection (25 Years Of Death Metal)

[Albums; Boxed Set; Reissue]
19 March 2013
Death Metal

'Dead Human Collection (25 Years Of Death Metal)' is a boxed set by Cannibal Corpse. It includes the twelve album released by the band at the time, and a bonus live album.

Performer(s):

Chris Barnes - Vocals [Member]

George 'Corpsegrinder' Fisher - Vocals [Member]

Jack Owen - Guitar [Member]

Label(s):

Metal Blade Records (Region: International)

MP3

FLAC

Metallica
Official Bootleg Series 2013 [01] Brisbane Showgrounds, Brisbane, Australia (February 23, 2013)

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
4 March 2013
Thrash Metal

Performer(s):

James Hetfield - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

Kirk Hammett - Guitar [Member]

Robert Trujillo - Bass Guitar [Member]

Lars Ulrich - Drums [Member]

MP3

FLAC

Metallica
Official Bootleg Series 2008 [02] Fima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, Arizona (May 16, 2008)

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
26 May 2008
Thrash Metal

Performer(s):

James Hetfield - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

Kirk Hammett - Guitar [Member]

Robert Trujillo - Bass Guitar [Member]

Lars Ulrich - Drums [Member]

MP3

FLAC

Metallica
Official Bootleg Series 2008 [01] Wiltern Theatre, Los Angeles, California (May 14, 2008)

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
24 May 2008
Thrash Metal

Performer(s):

James Hetfield - Vocals / Guitar [Member]

Kirk Hammett - Guitar [Member]

Robert Trujillo - Bass Guitar [Member]

Lars Ulrich - Drums [Member]

MP3

FLAC

Various Artists
Body Of War, Songs That Inspired An Iraq War Veteran

[Album; Compilation; Soundtrack]
18 March 2008
-Various-

Performer(s):

Eddie Vedder - Vocals [Guest]

Mike McCready - Guitar [Guest]

Stone Gossard - Guitar [Guest]

Jeff Ament - Bass Guitar [Guest]

Eddie Vedder - Vocals / Guitar [Guest]

Label(s):

Sire Records (Region: International)

MP3

FLAC

Acid Bath
Demos (1993-1996)

[Album; Compilation]
6 December 2005
Metal (Sludge)

'Demos (1993-1996)' is a compilation of demos by Acid Bath.

Label(s):

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

MP3

FLAC

Pearl Jam
Official Bootleg Series 2005 [01] North America - The Gorge, George, Washington (September 1, 2005)

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
11 September 2005
Grunge Rock

Performer(s):

Eddie Vedder - Vocals [Member]

Mike McCready - Guitar [Member]

Stone Gossard - Guitar [Member]

Jeff Ament - Bass Guitar [Member]

Matt Cameron - Drums [Member]

MP3

FLAC

The Screaming Jets
Rock On (Live At Evan Theatre, Penrith)

[Album; Live]
17 October 2005
Rock

'Rock On (Live At Evan Theatre, Penrith)' is the second live album by The Screaming Jets.

Performer(s):

Dave Gleeson - Vocals [Member]

Label(s):

Liberation Blue (Region: Australia)

MP3

FLAC

Pearl Jam
Official Bootleg Series 2003 [01] Australia / Japan - Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane, Australia (February 8, 2003)

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
10 June 2003
Grunge Rock

Performer(s):

Eddie Vedder - Vocals [Member]

Mike McCready - Guitar [Member]

Stone Gossard - Guitar [Member]

Jeff Ament - Bass Guitar [Member]

Matt Cameron - Drums [Member]

MP3

FLAC

Radio Birdman
The EP's

[E.P.; Compilation]
?? April 1992
Punk

'The EP's' is a compilation of the two E.P.'s released by Radio Birdman.

Label(s):

Trafalgar Records (Region: Australia)

EastWest Records (Region: Australia)

MP3

FLAC

Various Artists
Projections Of A Stained Mind

[Album; Compilation]
?? March 1991
-Various-

Label(s):

CBR Records (Region: Europe)

MP3

FLAC

Various Artists
Lead Weight (H.M. Rock Compilation From Neat)

[Album; Compilation]
?? February 1981
-Various-

'Lead Weight (H.M. Rock Compilation From Neat)' is a compilation album released by Neat Records. It features early recordings by many New Wave Of British Heavy Metal (N.W.O.B.H.M.) bands.

Label(s):

Neat Records (Region: Europe)

MP3

FLAC

The Rolling Stones
Aftermath [U.S.]

[Album]
20 June 1966
Classic Rock

Performer(s):

Mick Jagger - Vocals [Member]

Brian Jones - Guitar [Member]

Keith Richards - Guitar [Member]

Bill Wyman - Bass Guitar [Member]

Charlie Watts - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

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

MP3

FLAC

The Rolling Stones
Poison Ivy [Cancelled / Mono]

[Single]
26 August 1963
Classic Rock

Performer(s):

Mick Jagger - Vocals [Member]

Brian Jones - Guitar [Member]

Keith Richards - Guitar [Member]

Bill Wyman - Bass Guitar [Member]

Charlie Watts - Drums [Member]

Andrew Loog Oldham - Production [Producer]

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.

Armored Saint
Emotion Factory Reset

[Album]
22 May 2026
Heavy Metal

'Emotion Factory Reset' is the ninth studio album by Armored Saint.

Performer(s):

John Bush - Vocals [Member]

Joey Vera - Bass Guitar [Member]

Label(s):

Metal Blade Records (Region: International)

As The Sun Falls
Songs From The Veil

[Album]
23 May 2026
Death Metal (Melodic)

'Songs From The Veil' is the third studio album by As The Sun Falls.

Label(s):

Theogonia Records (Region: Europe)

Heaven & Hell
Breaking Out Of Heaven (2007-2009)

[Albums; Boxed Set; Reissue]
27 March 2026
Heavy Metal

'Breaking Out Of Heaven (2007-2009)' is a boxed set by the Heaven & Hell line-up of Black Sabbath. It contains the studio album and two live albums released by the band.

Performer(s):

Ronnie James Dio - Vocals [Member]

Tony Iommi - Guitar [Member]

Geezer Butler - Bass Guitar [Member]

Vinny Appice - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

BMG Records (Region: Europe)

Warner Bros. Records (Region: Europe)

Deniz Tek
Going Home

[Single]
2026
Punk

Dimmu Borgir
Grand Serpent Rising

[Album]
22 May 2026
Black Metal (Symphonic)

Label(s):

Nuclear Blast Records (Region: International)

Location(s):

Studio Fredman

Jungle Rot
Cruel Face Of War

[Album]
15 May 2026
Death Metal

Label(s):

Unique Leader Records (Region: U.S.A.)

Korn
Reward The Stars

[Single]
2026
Nu Metal

Various Artists
Ride The Rainbow, The Ultimate Tribute To Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow

[Album; Compilation; Tribute]
2026
Classic Rock

Slayer
Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition]

[Album; Reissue; Deluxe Edition]
15 May 2026
Thrash Metal

'Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition]' is a reissue by Slayer. It contains the original album remastered plus a complete unrelease concert recorded in Germany in 1985.

Performer(s):

Tom Araya - Vocals / Bass Guitar [Member]

Jeff Hanneman - Guitar [Member]

Kerry King - Guitar [Member]

Dave Lombardo - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

Metal Blade Records (Region: International)

Slayer
Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition / HD Version]

[Album; Reissue; Deluxe Edition]
15 May 2026
Thrash Metal

'Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition]' is a reissue by Slayer. It contains the original album remastered plus a complete unrelease concert recorded in Germany in 1985.

Performer(s):

Tom Araya - Vocals / Bass Guitar [Member]

Jeff Hanneman - Guitar [Member]

Kerry King - Guitar [Member]

Dave Lombardo - Drums [Member]

Label(s):

Metal Blade Records (Region: International)

The Rolling Stones
In The Stars

[Single]
2026
Classic Rock

Performer(s):

Mick Jagger - Vocals [Member]

Keith Richards - Guitar [Member]

Ronnie Wood - Guitar [Member]

John Zorn
The Bagatelles Vol. 1, Mary Halvorson Quartet

[Album]
2025
Jazz

Judas Priest featuring Ozzy Osbourne
War Pigs [Charity Version]

[Single]
2025
Heavy Metal

KISS
Dynasty [HD Edition]

[Album]
2025
Hard Rock

KISS
Alive III [HD Edition]

[Album]
2025
Hard Rock

KISS
Gene Simmons [HD Edition]

[Album]
2025
Hard Rock

KISS
Paul Stanley [HD Edition]

[Album]
2025
Hard Rock

KISS
Peter Criss [HD Edition]

[Album]
2025
Hard Rock

KISS
Love Gun [HD Edition]

[Album]
2025
Hard Rock

KISS
Ace Frehley [HD Edition]

[Album]
2025
Hard Rock

KISS
Double Platinum [HD Edition]

[Album]
2025
Hard Rock

KISS
Rock And Roll Over [HD Edition]

[Album]
2025
Hard Rock

KISS
Alive II [HD Edition]

[Album; Live]
2025
Hard Rock

Megadeth
Tipping Point

[Single]
2025
Thrash Metal

Motorhead
The Lost Tapes, Vol. 7 (Live In West Hollywood 1995, Lemmy's 50th Birthday) [HD Version]

[Album; Live]
24 December 2025
Hard Rock

'The Lost Tapes, Vol. 7 (Live In West Hollywood 1995, Lemmy's 50th Birthday)' is the seventh in a series of archival live albums by Motorhead. It was recorded at Lemmy's 50th birthday celebration.

Performer(s):

Lemmy Kilmister - Vocals / Bass Guitar [Member]

Phil Campbell - Guitar [Member]

Mikkey Dee - Drums [Member]

The Beatles
Anthology Highlights

[Album; Promotional]
2025
Classic Rock

The Beatles
Anthology, Soundtrack To The Disney+ Series (Episodes 1-3)

[Album; Promotional]
2025
Classic Rock

Tom Petty
Heartbreakers Beach Party (The Soundtrack)

[Album; Soundtrack]
2025
Classic Rock

Van Halen
Balance [Expanded Edition]

[Album; Reissue; Deluxe Edition]
2025
Hard Rock

Van Halen
For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge [Expanded Edition]

[Album; Reissue; Deluxe Edition]
2024
Hard Rock

Prong
State Of Emergency

[Album]
2023
Thrash Metal (Crossover)

Metallica
Official Bootleg Series 2021 [13] Chase Center, San Francisco, California (December 19, 2021) [HD Version]

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
29 December 2021
Thrash Metal

Metallica
Official Bootleg Series 2021 [12] Chase Center, San Francisco, California (December 17, 2021) [HD Version]

[Album; Live; Official Bootleg]
27 December 2021
Thrash Metal

Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Angel Dream (Songs And Music From The Motion Picture 'She's The One')

[Album; Soundtrack]
2021
Classic Rock

Motorhead
On Parole (Expanded & Remastered) [40th Anniversary Edition / HD Version]

[Album; Reissue]
9 October 2020
Hard Rock

'On Parole [Expanded & Remastered] [40th Anniversary Edition]'' is an album reissue by Motorhead for the 'On Parole' album's 40th anniversary. It features the original album, along a number of alternate mixes

U2 + A.R Rahman
Ahimsa

[Single]
2019
Rock

U2
The Eternal Remixes

[Single]
2019
Rock

The Beatles
The Pre-Fab Bealtes (1957-1961) [Unauthorised]

[Album; Unauthorised]
2017
Classic Rock

The Beatles
1962: Complete Recordings [Unauthorised]

[Album; Unauthorised]
2017
Classic Rock

Public Image Ltd. (PiL)
Album [Super Deluxe]

[Album; Reissue; Deluxe Edition]
2016
Post-Punk

Public Image Ltd. (PiL)
Metal Box [Super Deluxe]

[Album; Reissue; Deluxe Edition]
2016
Post-Punk

Prong
Ruining Lives

[Album]
2014
Thrash Metal (Crossover)

The Beatles
Long Tall Sally [2014 RSD Mono E.P.]

[E.P.]
2014
Classic Rock

Frank Zappa
A Token Of His Extreme (Soundtrack)

[Album; Soundtrack]
2013
Classic Rock

John Zorn
A Vision In Blakelight

[Album]
2012
Jazz

Ben Waters
Boogie 4 Stu (A Tribute To Ian Stewart)

[Album]
2011
Classic Rock

Performer(s):

Mick Jagger - Vocals [Guest]

Keith Richards - Guitar [Guest]

Ronnie Wood - Guitar [Guest]

Bill Wyman - Bass Guitar [Guest]

Charlie Watts - Drums [Guest]

Metallica
Call Of Duty, Black Ops

[Album; Unauthorised]
2010
Thrash Metal

Vengeance Rising
Human Sacrifice [2010 Remaster]

[Album; Reissue]
2010
Thrash Metal

Metallica
BBC Radio Theatre

[Album; Unauthorised]
2008
Thrash Metal

Madball
Infiltrate The System

[Album]
2007
Hardcore Punk

The Cult
A Return To The Wild (U.S. Tour)

[Album; Live; Boxed Set]
2006
Alternative Rock

Manowar
King Of Kings

[Single]
2005
Heavy Metal

Twisted Sister
Live At Wacken, The Reunion

[Album; Live]
2005
Hard Rock

Performer(s):

Dee Snider - Vocals [Member]

Pain Of Salvation
12:5

[Album; Live]
2004
Metal

Rich Robinson
Paper

[Album]
2004
Rock

The Screaming Jets
Heart Of The Matter

[E.P.]
2004
Rock

Elton John
21 At 33 [Reissue]

[Album]
2003
Classic Rock

Madball
Hold It Down

[Album]
2000
Hardcore Punk

The Stooges
1970, The Complete Funhouse Sessions

[Album; Compilation; Boxed Set]
1999
Punk

Metallica
Bay Area Thrashers

[Album; Unauthorised]
1998
Thrash Metal

Metallica
Acoustic Metal

[Album; Unauthorised]
1998
Thrash Metal

Janis Joplin
18 Essential Songs

[Album; Compilation]
1995
Classic Rock

Carolyn Hester
Carolyn Hester [Reissue]

[Album; Selected Tracks]
1994
Classic Rock

The Poor
More Wine Waiter Please

[Single]
1994
Hard Rock

The Mothers Of Invention
Ahead Of Their Time

[Album; Live]
1993
Classic Rock

Naked City
Absinthe

[Album]
1993
Jazz

Queen
Bohemian Rhapsody [Reissue]

[Single; Reissue]
1991
Classic Rock

U-Men
Step On A Bug

[Album; Reissue]
1990
Grunge Rock

Girlschool
1-2-3-4 Rock 'n' Roll

[E.P.]
1983
Hard Rock

Johnny Cash
A Believer Sings The Truth

[Album]
1979
Country

The Beatles
1st Live Recordings (Volume One)

[Album; Live]
1979
Classic Rock

The Beatles
1st Live Recordings (Volume Two)

[Album; Live]
1979
Classic Rock

The Rolling Stones
Time Waits For No One, Anthology (1971-1977)

[Album; Compilation]
1 June 1979
Classic Rock

Performer(s):

Mick Jagger - Vocals [Member]

Ronnie Wood - Guitar [Member]

Keith Richards - Guitar [Member]

Bill Wyman - Bass Guitar [Member]

Charlie Watts - Drums [Member]

Johnny Cash
20 Foot Tappin' Greats

[Album; Compilation]
1978
Country

Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
You're Gonna Get It!

[Album]
1978
Classic Rock

Lynyrd Skynyrd
One More For The Road

[Album]
1976
Classic Rock

Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

[Album]
1976
Classic Rock

Queen
Bohemian Rhapsody

[Single]
1975
Classic Rock

TheBigBlack's Last.FM Listening History

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Mediabase 2.0 is a new version of the site being rebuilt, page by page, line by line. Same old look, but with a new engine. You may see an error or two, but don't worry - it will all run smoothly soon.

Week Ending: 30 May 2026

Album Of The Week

Slayer - Hell Awaits [40th Anniversary Edition] (2026)

Megadeth - Megadeth (2026)

People: New Additions

Gene Hoglan

John Bush

Josh Klinghoffer

Core Discographies: New Additions

Core Discographies: This Year's Releases Coming Soon

Moontower [Reissue]

Demolition

Honora

Your Funeral

Live At Mohegan Sun

Down The Road, The Complete Ian Gillan Band Story

Sing Me Now Asleep

Dreamcrush

Rarities

Ride The Rainbow, The Ultimate Tribute To Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow

Tempelschlaf

Con Orquesta (Live In Mexico)

Live At Wembley 1995

Wyld

CBGB, A New York City Soundtrack (1975-1986)

Satanic Scum Punks

Necropalace

Digital Library: Tagged Releases

Digital Library: New Additions

Week Ending:
30 May 2026