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Sadus: Extreme Thrash Metal From California
California's SADUS represented the ultimate in extreme and technical Thrash Metal in the late 1980s.
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The Atrophy Discography: '80s Thrash Metal From Arizona
At the height of the late '80s thrash metal craze, Arizona's ATROPHY released two albums that still have a cult following to this day. Mosh it up!
- 0
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Dokken's "Erase the Slate"
Dokken's "Erase the Slate" was the band's first studio album without guitar wizard George Lynch and was considered a return-to-form after the disastrous "Shadowlife."
- 0
Masquerage "Hangman's Revelations" Album Review
"Hangman's Revelations" is the fifth full length album by the Finnish melodic power metal band Masquerage, released by Stormspell Records in 2018.
- 0
Overkill "Live in Overhausen" CD Review
"Live in Overhausen" is the latest live release from thrash metal legends OVERKILL. The band performed two of their most pivotal albums—"Feel The Fire" and "Horrorscope"—live in their entirety at a very special show in Germany in 2016.
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Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Celtic Frost's "Cold Lake"
In 1988 the avant-garde black/thrash metal band Celtic Frost released "Cold Lake" - a bizarre attempt to jump on the glam-metal band wagon. The band probably wishes this one would stay forgotten!
- 2
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Messiah Prophet, "Master of the Metal"
Released in 1986, "Master of the Metal" was the second album by Messiah Prophet, a Pennsylvania based Christian heavy metal band.
- 0
Ancient Empire, "Eternal Soldier" Album Review
"Eternal Soldier" is the fourth full length release from science-fiction obsessed power metallers, Ancient Empire.
- 3
Carriage, "Visions" Album Review
"Visions" is the debut album by Carriage, a Virginia-based traditional heavy metal band inspired by Mercyful Fate, King Diamond, Savatage, Judas Priest, and Black Sabbath.
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Tips for Thrift Store CD Scroungers
As more and more people dump their CD collections in favor of vinyl or streaming, thrift stores have become the best place to CD fanatics to bulk up their stash!
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Weird Records Found At Thrift Stores
The used-record bin at your local thrift shop can provide an endless cavalcade of unintentional comedy. Gaze in horror at these vinyl atrocities from days gone by!
- 2
"Prom Night IV: Deliver Us From Evil" (1992)
In the fourth "Prom Night" installment, a quartet of post-prom partying teens get a visit from a psychotic priest intent on teaching them the error of their sinful ways. Hilarity does not ensue.
- 3
"Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood" (1988)
In the seventh "Friday" installment, Jason Voorhees faces off against a troubled girl with psycho-kinetic powers. Has the hockey masked maniac finally met his match?
- 1
"Stygian Oath" EP Review
Stygian Oath is a traditional heavy metal band from Thessaloniki, Greece that has just released their debut six-song EP through Stormspell Records.
- 1
25 Fascinating Facts About Stryper
STRYPER released their 12th studio album, entitled "God Damn Evil," in 2018. In honor of their 30+ years of rockin' for the Rock, here are 25 fascinating facts about these Christian metal pioneers.
- 3
Siren "Up From the Depths: Early Anthology & More" Album Review
Siren is a cult 1980s heavy metal band from Florida. Their new release "Up From the Depths" is a 2-disc collection of vintage album cuts, demo & unreleased tracks and four new songs.
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Terravore "Unforeseen Consequences" Album Review
"Unforeseen Consequences" is the first full length album from Bulgarian thrash metal band Terravore.
- 0
"Steel Assassin"—Can You Help Stormspell Records Find This "Mystery Band?"
Stormspell Records found a 1986 tape by a lost band possibly known as "Steel Assassin." All attempts to locate them have come up empty. Maybe you can help solve this Heavy Metal Mystery!
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Lucifer's Hammer's "Time Is Death" Album Review
"Time Is Death" is the second full length album from Lucifer's Hammer, a traditional heavy metal band from Chile.
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Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: W.A.S.P.'s "Helldorado" (1999)
1999's "Helldorado" was seen as a comeback album for shock rockers W.A.S.P., fronted by the legendary Blackie Lawless. How does it hold up almost 20 years later?
- 0
Spellwitch, "The Witching Hour" Album Review (2018)
Spellwitch hails from Finland and they play classy, melodic '80s style metal in the vein of Dio, King Diamond and early Savatage
- 0
Runelord "A Message From the Past" Album Review (2018)
"A Message From the Past" is the debut album by Runelord, a power metal project featuring members of Rocka Rollas, Blazon Stone, and The Outer Limits
- 1
Rocka Rollas' "Celtic Kings" Album Review (2018)
"Celtic Kings" is the fifth and final, long-awaited, album by Cederick Forsberg and his merry band of Swedish power/speed metal barbarians.
- 3
Retro Rock Review: "Asia" (1982)
The debut album by prog-rock "Supergroup" Asia was an instant success in 1982. The band featured members of Yes, King Crimson, the Buggles, and ELP.
- 1
25 Fascinating Facts About Motörhead
Lemmy and company may be gone, but Motörhead's bad-ass musical legacy lives on. Here are 25 facts about the loudest band in the world.
- 2
Dollar Store DVD Review: "Black Cobra" (1987) and "Black Cobra II" (1989)
A decade after his peak as a blaxploitation bad-ass, NFL star turned action hero Fred Williamson was trapped in cheap Italian cop movies like the "Black Cobra" series.
- 3
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Black Death (1984)
Before Body Count and Living Colour, there was Black Death, the first all-black heavy metal band. Their 1984 album is an over-the-top cult classic of indie metal mayhem. Bang Thy Head!
- 0
Skyward, "Seeking the Heavens" EP Review
"Seeking the Heavens" is the debut EP from Skyward, a new melodic power metal band from the U.K.
- 0
Haiduk - "Demonicon" Album Review
"Demonicon" is the latest full length release from HAIDUK, a one man black/death metal project from Canada.
- 0
Babylon A.D. "Revelation Highway" (2017) Album Review
"Revelation Highway" is the first new studio album from '80s rockers Babylon A.D. in more than fifteen years.
- 0
"Predator 2" - Welcome to the Jungle!
In "Predator 2," the alien big-game hunter has his sights set on the urban jungle of Los Angeles, where he tangles with drug cartels, the U.S. government, and tough cop Danny Glover.
- 0
Slander, "Resolution Defiance" (2017) Album Review
The British heavy metal band Slander has just released "Resolution Defiance," their first new studio album in more than 25 years, on Stormspell Records.
- 1
Grimgotts, "Lions of the Sea" (2017) Album Review
"Lions of the Sea" is the first full length release from Grimgotts, a fantasy-themed symphonic power metal band from the United Kingdom.
- 0
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: X-Sinner, "Get It" (1989)
Often referred to as "Christian Rock's answer to AC/DC," X-Sinner's debut album still sounds great more than 25 years after its original release.
- 0
Ancient Empire "The Tower" (2017) Album Review
"The Tower" is the third full-length album from the science-fiction themed American heavy metal band, Ancient Empire.
- 0
Detest "The End of All Ends" (2017) Album Review
Stormspell Records presents "The End of All Ends," a collection of long-lost tracks by the cult Swedish power/thrash metal band Detest.
- 1
Raging Fate, "Gods of Terror" (2017) Album Review
"Gods of Terror" is the debut album from Sweden's newest traditional-metal warriors, Raging Fate.
- 1
The Outer Limits, "Apocalypto" (2017) Album Review
The Outer Limits, a thrash metal band from Bulgaria, just released their second album "Apocalypto" on Stormspell Records.
- 0
Nightstryke, "Power Shall Prevail" (2017) Album Review
The debut album from Finland's Nighstryke, "Power Shall Prevail," is aimed at fans of NWOBHM and classic '80s power/speed metal.
- 3
Volcana, "Goddess of Flame" (2017) Album Review
"Goddess of Flame" is the debut full-length album from Volcana, a heavy stoner/doom metal band featuring members of Vindicator, Warbringer, and Seven Witches.
- 5
Great Bad Movies: "Hard Rock Zombies" (1985)
1985's "Hard Rock Zombies" is one of those "so bad it's good" movies that defies description -- you just have to see for yourself.
- 0
Andy Milligan's "Carnage" (1984): A Dollar Store DVD Review
No-budget horror maven Andy Milligan takes on the haunted-house genre in 1984's "Carnage" - which now holds the coveted title of Worst Movie I Have Ever Seen.
- 2
"Freddy vs. Jason": Clash of the Terror Titans
It took ten years to escape from Development Hell, but 2003 saw Freddy Krueger of "Nightmare On Elm Street" finally go toe-to-toe with Jason Voorhees of "Friday the 13th" fame. Horror fans rejoiced!
- 1
"Suspiria" (1977): Dario Argento's Stylish Italian Horror Classic
Many horror film aficionados consider 1977's "Suspiria" to be Italian terror titan Dario Argento's finest work. How does this groundbreaking film hold up 40 years later?
- 0
Palantir "Lost Between Dimensions" (2017) Album Review
"Lost Between Dimensions" is the debut release from Swedish symphonic power metallers Palantir.
- 2
Numenor "Chronicles" (2017) Album Review
"Chronicles" is the latest release from Numenor, a symphonic black/power metal band from Serbia.
- 0
Yuri Fulone, "Your Kingdom Will Fall" (2017) Album Review
Yuri Fulone is a one-man power metal project from Brazil. "Your Kingdom Will Fall" is his second full length album release.
- 0
Stereo Nasty, "Twisting the Blade" (2017) Album Review
"Twisting the Blade" is the second album by Stereo Nasty, a traditional heavy metal band from Kildare, Ireland.
- 0
Fire Strike - "Slaves of Fate" (2017) Album Review
"Slaves of Fate" is the new album from Fire Strike, a female fronted "true metal" band from Brazil.
- 0
Blazon Stone "Down in the Dark" (2017) Album Review
The pirate metal horde returns! "Down in the Dark" is the fourth full length release from Swedish power metal masters Blazon Stone.
- 0
"Blood Tide" (1982): A Dollar Store DVD Review
"Blood Tide" is a mostly awful monster flick set in the sunny Mediterranean, starring Martin Kove, James Earl Jones, and Lydia Cornell.
- 0
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Winters Bane, "Heart of a Killer" (1993)
Winters Bane's "Heart of a Killer" is best remembered as the debut recording by Tim Owens - later known as "Ripper" when he replaced Rob Halford in Judas Priest.
- 1
Dollar Store Double Feature: "Abraxas, Guardian of the Universe" and "Laser Mission"
A "Dollar Store DVD" review of "Abraxas: Guardian Of The Universe" starring Jesse "The Body" Ventura and "Laser Mission" starring the late Brandon Lee.
- 0
Claymorean "Sounds From a Dying World" (2017) Album Review
The Serbian female fronted epic power metal band Claymorean returns with their second full-length release, "Sounds From a Dying World," on Stormspell Records.
- 2
Cloven Altar "Enter the Night" Album Review
Enter the Night is the third release from the melodic power metal project Cloven Altar, featuring Cederick "Ced" Forsberg (Rocka Rollas) and Dustin Altar.
- 5
Ranking Roger Moore's James Bond Films
Sir Roger Moore played Ian Fleming's secret agent James Bond in seven films between 1973 and 1985. In honor of his passing, a long time fan reviews the man's 007 appearances.
- 8
Great Bad Movies: "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians" (1964)
"Santa Claus Conquers The Martians" has to be seen by all bad movie aficionados at least once.
- 0
Great Bad Movies: "Jason X" (2002)
In the 10th "Friday The 13th" installment, the unstoppable Jason Voorhees jumps four and a half centuries into the future to kill horny teens aboard a space station. Um... what?
- 0
Dollar Store Double Feature: "Creature" and "Slipstream"
Mini reviews of "Creature" and "Slipstream," two cheap sci-fi movies from a dollar store double feature DVD.
- 0
Great Bad Movies: "Starcrash" (1978)
"Starcrash" (1978) is a so-bad-it's-cool low budget "Star Wars" wanna-be from Italy, starring Caroline Munro as space-faring mega-babe Stella Star, who saves the universe from the evil Zarth Arn.
- 3
Quiet Riot Releases "Road Rage" With New Singer James Durbin
Quiet Riot released their new studio album "Road Rage" in August 2017, after encountering a few bumps in the road along the way.
- 4
The Incredible Hulk #181: The One That Got Away
The legendary Wolverine made his first full appearance in Incredible Hulk #181 in 1974. It's a Holy Grail book for comic collectors ... and many years ago I foolishly let one slip thru my fingers!
- 0
My Cheap Heavy Metal Haul from Perris Records
Perris Records is an independent record label and distributor specializing in '80s hard rock and heavy metal. I recently visited the "sale" section of their web site for some cheap tunes.
- 1
KISS - "Psycho Circus" (1998) Album Review
KISS' 1998 album "Psycho Circus" was the first new studio album in almost twenty years by the reunited original band... but did it live up to the hype?
- 6
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Fight's 'War of Words'
Rob Halford abruptly left Judas Priest in the early 1990s and formed a new, grittier heavy metal band called Fight.
- 0
Book Review: "Jedi Summer With the Magnetic Kid" by John Boden
"Jedi Summer with The Magnetic Kid" is a creepy yet bittersweet coming of age tale from horror writer John Boden.
- 0
Blazon Stone, "War of the Roses" (2016) Album Review
"War of the Roses" is the third full length album by power metal band Blazon Stone, released on Stormspell Records in November 2016.
- 8
More Forgotten Horror Movies You Can Watch on YouTube
Here's another batch of creepy cult classics that you can watch for free on YouTube!
- 3
Ten Forgotten Action Movies You Can Watch on YouTube
YouTube is a treasure trove of forgotten low budget action/adventure movies. If you need a retro butt kickin' movie fix, here are ten suggestions.
- 8
Ten Forgotten Horror Movies You Can Watch on YouTube
YouTube is a treasure trove of full length forgotten and obscure horror films. Here are ten suggestions for your Halloween season viewing
- 32
Farewell to Hastings Entertainment Stores
In July 2016, Hastings Entertainment announced that all 128 of their music/video/book superstores were closing - a victim of changing trends in the way Americans consume media.
- 11
The Crystal Pepsi Comeback of 2018
Crystal Pepsi was a massive failure when it was introduced in 1993, but its cult following celebrated its return - for a limited time, of course - in 2018.
- 1
Faith No More: 'The Real Thing (Deluxe Edition)' CD Review
Faith No More's genre-bending hard rock classic THE REAL THING was originally released in 1989 and was reissued as a deluxe 2-CD set in 2015.
- 0
A True Metal Six-Pack From Stormspell Records
Reviewing my latest haul of CDs from Stormspell Records, the tiny-but-true indie heavy metal label.
- 2
Stormspell Records: The Tiny but True Heavy Metal Label
I celebrated Record Store Day 2016 by purchasing five recent titles from Stormspell Records - a tiny but true independent metal label dedicated to keeping the spirit of '80s metal alive!
- 0
Great Bad Movies: Treasure of the Four Crowns (1983)
I hadn't seen this Z-grade Spanish "Raiders of the Lost Ark" wanna-be since I was in junior high... aaaaand yep, it's just as bad as I remembered!!
- 1
Still More Eurospy Movies: I Can't Believe It's Not Bond!
I continue my investigation of mid 1960s "Eurospy" films -the low budget knockoffs made to cash in on the then-current James Bond craze.
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More 'Eurospy' Movies: Not Quite Bond...
Part 2 of my investigation into the wild world of "Eurospy" movies - cheap, low budget secret agent flicks made in the '60s to capitalize on the James Bond craze.
- 0
An Introduction to 'Eurospy' Movies: Meet the Bargain Basement Bonds!
During the James Bond craze of the mid 1960s, European B-Movie studios cashed in with dozens of knockoff spy flicks. Today these mostly forgotten films are referred to as "Eurospy" movies.
- 8
Great Bad Movies: "Cyborg 2: Glass Shadow" (1993)
1993's "Cyborg 2" (aka "Cyborg 2: Glass Shadow") is a direct to video sequel that probably would've been long forgotten by now if not for its star: a young, then-unknown Angelina Jolie
- 10
Remembering Lemmy, Rock's Original Badass (1945-2015)
Legendary Motörhead frontman and heavy metal icon Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister passed away on December 28, 2015.
- 0
"Humanary Stew: A Tribute To Alice Cooper" CD review
Members of Motley Crue, Dokken, Def Leppard, Iron Maiden, Megadeth and more come together to pay respects to shock rock icon Alice Cooper on this entertaining 1999 tribute album.
- 4
Great Bad Movies: "Hands of Steel," aka "Atomic Cyborg" (1986)
HANDS OF STEEL - aka ATOMIC CYBORG - is a low budget "Terminator" knock-off from Italy that even shoe horns in some ultra macho arm wrestling (?) action.
- 2
Great Bad Movies: "Ninja III: The Domination" (1984)
Cannon's "Ninja Trilogy" comes to a close with this bizarre saga in which a young aerobics instructor is possessed by the demonic spirit of an evil Ninja!
- 7
Great Bad Movies: "Breeders" (1986)
In 1986's "Breeders," an alien stalks and violates virginal young women in New York City in order to spawn the next generation of his race.
- 4
Queensryche, "Condition Human" (2015) album review
On their second album with new front man Todd LaTorre, Queensryche sounds more confident and focused than they have in a VERY long time.
- 0
Before "Annabelle"...There Was "Dolly Dearest"
Annabelle's not the only creepy killer girl doll in Hollywood. Witness 1991's Dolly Dearest, in which a family is terrorized by a malevolent spirit in the form of the daughter's favorite doll.
- 2
Lamberto Bava's "Demons" (1985)
In the 1985 cult classic "Demons", a mysterious evil jumps out of the screen during a horror film showing and possesses the audience. Hilarity ensues.
- 17
KISS: The 1978 Solo Albums Fiasco
The four members of KISS took a massive gamble when they all released solo albums on the same day in September 1978. Instead of platinum success, it was the beginning of the end for the original band.
- 11
Worlds Collide in "Scooby-Doo and KISS: Rock and Roll Mystery"
Ruh-roh, Raggy! The Mystery Machine gang comes to the aid of the Hottest Band in the World in this all new animated feature film.
- 4
Whitesnake - "The Purple Album" (2015) Review
On Whitesnake's new CD, The Purple Album, vocalist David Coverdale puts a 21st century spin on some classic cuts by his first band, the legendary Deep Purple.
- 6
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: The Shotgun Messiah Discography
These Swedish sleaze merchants morphed from a generic glam-to-the-max band into a high tech, industrial-rock combo over the course of their three studio albums.
- 4
Krokus: "Original Album Classics" Collection Review
This "Original Album Classics" release features three vintage albums by the Swiss hard rock act KROKUS, reissued in nifty little LP style sleeves
- 5
Great Bad Movies: "Zombie Strippers" (2008)
Robert "Freddy Krueger" Englund and retired porn queen Jenna Jameson star in this ultra-gory, ultra-goofy splatter comedy ...but does "Zombie Strippers" have enough bite?
- 5
Great Bad Movies: "Ice Cream Man" (1995)
In 1995's "Ice Cream Man," Clint "Ron's Brother" Howard is a frozen-treat salesman with a homicidal agenda. Hilarity ensues.
- 5
The Twisted Sister History: Once an S.M.F., Always an S.M.F.!
The cross-dressing heavy metal legends have hung up their makeup bags for good. The author, a longtime "SMF," looks back at 40 years of metal, mascara and mayhem.
- 6
Great Bad Movies: Moontrap (1988)
1989's "Moontrap" was a cult sci-fi favorite during the VHS era. 25+ years later, it's finally on Blu-Ray and a long overdue sequel, "Moontrap: Target Earth," was released in 2016.
- 5
Roger Corman: King of the B Movie!
Roger Corman became a Hollywood legend by cranking out tons of low-budget fare for the 50s drive-in circuit, and he's still one of the most successful independent producers in Tinseltown today!
- 21
1983's Battle of the Bonds: "Octopussy" vs. "Never Say Never Again"
James Bond fans had two 007 movies to choose from in 1983 - Roger Moore's "Octopussy" and Sean Connery's "Never Say Never Again," which was made by a rival studio after a long legal battle.
- 11
"St. Anger 2015" Diehard Fans Re-Record Metallica's Most Misunderstood Album
2003's "St. Anger" is considered to be Metallica's worst album. In 2015, two fans recorded their own version of the disc (with better production) in hopes that people might give it another try.
- 20
Memories of a Tape Head: Hooray for Obsolete Media!
The author digs into his closet and uncovers the remnants of his rock 'n' roll cassette collection. Join him as he revels in the analog awesomeness!
- 9
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Warrant, "Dog Eat Dog" (1992)
Warrant sensed change in the air as the Grunge Decade began, so they tried to toughen up their sound with 1992's "Dog Eat Dog" album. Was the experiment successful?
- 4
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: "Killen" (1987)
Staten Island, New York's KILLEN released an album in 1987 and a demo in 1989... and then they disappeared. Their debut album is due to be reissued on CD by Cult Metal Classics in 2015.
- 4
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: The Die Happy Discography
Die Happy was a short-lived Christian heavy metal band that rose from the ashes of the notorious Vengeance Rising. Their three-album discography still sounds pretty good today.
- 0
Concert Review: Overkill with Municipal Waste and Prong, Starland Ballroom, NJ 9/27/14
I saw Overkill for the first time in 20 years at Starland Ballroom in Sayreville, New Jersey on Sept. 27, 2014 ... and it was a most excellent thrashin' trip down Metal Memory Lane!
- 14
I Was a Spelling Bee Washout
More than 30 years ago, I came close to participating in the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C... but my skills betrayed me at the worst possible time.
- 8
The Runkeeper App and Me: Fat Guy Walking
The author, a middle aged fat guy, attempts to get on the track to fitness, aided by the handy dandy RUNKEEPER app for his Android phone.
- 15
The Cinderella Discography: Hair Metal Heroes
A long time fan examines all four of the Philadelphia-based "hair metal" band's studio albums.
- 2
Lucio Fulci, Italy's Godfather of Gore
Italian director Lucio Fulci is best remembered by those with strong stomachs for the extremely gory horror movies he made in the late 70s and early '80s.
- 13
Does the Disc Genie Repair Kit Work?
The Disc Genie, a supposedly award-winning "AS SEEN ON TV" product, promises that it can repair "Up to 100 Game Discs, DVDs, and CDs." But does the Disc Genie actually work? Let's find out!
- 27
Bad Beer Alert: BOXER Lager
I'm usually not very picky when it comes to beer, but after trying the abomination known as BOXER, I felt it was my duty to warn fellow beer drinkers about this noxious brew.
- 27
Scrounging for CDs at the Thrift Store
Record stores may be a dying breed, but thankfully music collecting addicts can still get their fix at their local thrift stores!
- 0
KISS "Killers" Album Review
"Killers" was KISS' second "greatest hits" compilation, and was only released outside of the U.S. It is noteworthy because it featured four "new" songs.
- 19
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Beau Nasty, "Dirty, but Well Dressed" (1989)
Beau Nasty was a "one and done" hair metal band whose lone album, 1989's DIRTY BUT WELL DRESSED is not only a decent listen, but a sought-after collectible too.
- 12
A Guide to Collecting "Extended Versions" Concert CDs
Bargain CD hunters should be quite familiar with Sony/BMG's long running series of budget priced "Extended Versions" live concert discs...but are they worth buying?
- 14
The "Death Wish" Series: Charles Bronson at His Best!
Legendary screen bad-ass Charles Bronson made lots of movies in his long career, but fans will always remember him best as vigilante Paul Kersey from the "Death Wish" film series.
- 5
Crappy Kid Movie Alert! Beware of "A Talking Cat!?!"
"A Talking Cat!?!" is an absolutely terrible no-budget movie aimed at your kids. Don't let them watch this atrocity. Your children deserve better movies than this!!
- 16
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Iron Maiden, "The X Factor"
Bruce Dickinson shocked the Metal world when he left Iron Maiden in 1993. On 1995's THE X FACTOR, Maiden attempted to carry on with new vocalist Blaze Bayley.
- 12
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Black Sabbath, "Seventh Star" (1986)
Billed as "Black Sabbath Featuring Tony Iommi," 1986's "Seventh Star" album is one of the most misunderstood records in the Sabbath catalog.
- 33
The Rise and Fall of Blockbuster Video
On November 6, 2013, video-rental titan Blockbuster Video announced that their last 300 U.S. stores would close in January 2014. Movie fans were surprised to hear there were any Blockbusters left.
- 29
The "RoboCop" Remake: Smash or Trash?
After years of false starts and development delays, the remake of 1987's classic "Robocop" finally hit theaters in February, 2014. A longtime Robo-Fan examines the evidence.
- 25
KISS Unmasks On "Lick It Up" (1983)
KISS' 1983 album LICK IT UP was a do-or-die release for the struggling hard rock legends, who opted to appear without their trademark makeup for the very first time.
- 9
Loudness: Japanese Heavy Metal Icons
Formed in 1981, Loudness is the best known Heavy Metal band from Japan. They're mainly remembered in the U.S. for their hit "Crazy Nights," from 1985's Thunder in the East album.
- 15
"Mass Slaughter: The Best of Slaughter" Album Review
Have you ever bought a CD that you were expecting to hate...but you bought it anyway? That's what happened to me with this "best-of" compilation by the early 90s hair band Slaughter.
- 10
Even More Awful Rock & Metal Album Covers!
Just when you thought it was safe to go back to the record store... more cover art monstrosities to scar your psyche and damage your eyeballs!
- 16
Geoff Tate's Queensryche - "Frequency Unknown" (2013) Review
"Frequency Unknown," a 2013 album by "Queensryche," features vocalist Geoff Tate and a backing band of hired-gun studio musicians.
- 27
I Survived Camp Crystal Lake!!
The author - a Scout leader and horror movie nerd - traveled to Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco in New Jersey - filming location of the original "Friday the 13th!" - for a Scouting weekend. Geek Overload followed!
- 17
New York City Record Store Memories
New York City used to be Heaven on Earth for the diehard record collector, and for the author it always started at punk/metal haven Bleecker Bob's. I'm grateful to have experienced that era.
- 43
The Most WTF Saturday Morning Cartoons Ever
The late 70s and early 80s were the golden age of bizarre Saturday morning cartoons. Here we present our picks for the weirdest, most disturbing, and flat out WTF-worthy animated shows of the era.
- 17
Revisiting "2001: A Space Odyssey" (1968)
The last time I saw "2001: A Space Odyssey," I was 12 years old and my mind was not quite ready for Stanley Kubrick yet. Will a repeat viewing 30 years later make things clearer?
- 53
How I Finally Quit Smokeless Tobacco
Smokeless tobacco is a tough habit to give up, but it can be done!
- 31
10 Best Heavy Metal Documentaries
A list of ten great documentaries about hard rock and heavy metal music, by a diehard metal fan and movie geek.
- 8
Revenge of the Awful Rock & Metal Album Covers!
The latest installment of the Hilariously Bad Album Covers gallery features another batch of eyesores guaranteed to make you groan!
- 11
Triumph and Tragedy on Savatage's "Edge of Thorns"
On 1993's "Edge of Thorns," progressive metal titans Savatage replaced longtime screamer Jon Oliva with new vocalist Zak Stevens. The result was one of the finest albums of their long career.
- 21
Christmas Horror Movies: Have Yourself a Scary Little Christmas!
Horror films aren't just for Halloween. Even during the season of joy and giving, fright film fans can get a few jolts from these Christmas-related horror flicks.
- 22
KISS - "Monster" (2012) album review
KISS' 20th album, "Monster," was released in October 2012. Have the fire-and-brimstone rockers still "got it"? Your columnist and longtime KISS fanboy takes you directly into the belly of the beast!
- 5
Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Widowmaker, "Blood and Bullets" (1992)
Twisted Sister's Dee Snider struck out on his own in 1992 with a new band called Widowmaker. Their debut "Blood and Bullets" never caught on but it qualifies as a great Forgotten Hard Rock Album.
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Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Ugly Kid Joe, "Menace to Sobriety" (1995)
Ugly Kid Joe's second full length release, MENACE TO SOBRIETY, is an excellent album that unfortunately was released in 1995, when interest in hard rock/metal was at an all time low.
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Warrior Soul's as Uncompromising as Ever on "Back on the Lash"
Politically-charged rockers Warrior Soul released their newest album, "Back on the Lash," in December 2017
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KISS "Music From 'The Elder'" Review (1981)
KISS' 1981 concept album "Music From The Elder" bombed when it was first released, but developed a cult following over time. A rabid KISS fanboy will attempt to defend this still controversial album.
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"Pumpkinhead" (1988) Review
In 1988's cult classic PUMPKINHEAD, directed by FX wizard Stan Winston, a grieving backwoods father conjures up a demon to avenge the death of his son at the hands of some "city folk."
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Return of the Awful Heavy Metal Album Covers!
HubPages' resident Heavy Metal Maniac is back with another gallery of the worst, the weirdest, and the just plain ugliest album covers in Metal history. Gaze in awe at their awfulness and wonder what these bands were thinking when they said "That's great! Let's go with that!!"
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The Tale of Two Queensryches
Queensryche's split with original vocalist Geoff Tate was one of the most bizarre rock dramas in recent memory. Let's find out how it all went down and how it was resolved.
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Deliverance: Christian Thrash Legends Return With "The Subversive Kind"
Christian metal legends DELIVERANCE will release a new album, "The Subversive Kind," in early 2018.
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10 More Awful Heavy Metal Album Covers
Another gallery of hilariously bad album cover art from the hard rock and metal world. Gaze in awe at their awfulness!!
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10 Awful Hard Rock & Metal Album Covers
A gallery of some of the most classically bad, painful to the eyes album covers in Heavy Metal history.
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Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Metal Church, "Blessing in Disguise" (1989)
The underrated Metal Church released BLESSING IN DISGUISE in 1989. Despite great songs and connections with Metallica, the band and album never truly got their due in the '80s Metal sweepstakes.
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Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Kix, "Midnite Dynamite" (1985)
Kix's third album, Midnite Dynamite, was released in 1985 and is still considered to be their finest work, but success would continue to elude them for a few more years. The hard working Maryland band is still on the road to this day!
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The Unreleased "Fantastic Four" Movie (1994) Review
1994's THE FANTASTIC FOUR was produced on a miniscule budget by the great Roger Corman. Unfortunately, the finished product was permanently shelved and has never been officially released.
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Great Bad Movies: "Hamburger: The Motion Picture" (1986)
In 1986's "Hamburger: The Motion Picture," Russell needs to earn a college degree to receive his inheritance. When he enrolls at Buster Burger U., a fast-food training school, hilarity ensues!
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Metallica's "Kill 'Em All" Changed the Heavy Metal Game 35 Years Ago
It may be hard to believe, but Metallica's now-legendary debut album, KILL'EM ALL, will be 35 years old in 2018. Here are some memories of the first time I heard this genre-defining album.
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"Jersey Shore Shark Attack" (2012) Movie Review
In the SyFy Movie JERSEY SHORE SHARK ATTACK, a crew of Guido party animals must save Seaside Heights from a horde of man-eating sharks. Hilarity ensues.
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"Abraham Lincoln vs. Zombies" (2012) Review
The Asylum's 2012 Mockbuster, "Abraham Lincoln Vs. Zombies," is a not-so-subtle bite (pun not intended!) off of the bigger budget flick "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter."
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Great Bad Movies: "Hobo With a Shotgun" (2011)
In "Hobo With A Shotgun," Rutger Hauer is cleaning up the crime ridden streets of Hope City in a hilariously violent and utterly tasteless homage to the exploitation flicks of the '70s and '80s.
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"Evilspeak" (1981) Review
1981's cult classic "EVILSPEAK" is an early attempt at "cyber-horror," in which a nerdy military school cadet gets even with a little help from his computer... and Satan!
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Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Bad Biscut, "The American Dream?" (1994)
Bad Biscut should've been "the next big thing" from New Jersey, but it never quite happened for them. 1994's THE AMERICAN DREAM? is a potent hard rock cocktail with a dose of punk-rock attitude.
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Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: Piledriver, "Metal Inquisition" (1985)
Canadian thrashers Piledriver released two albums in the mid '80s and then disappeared. Here's a look back at the mysterious band's cult classic debut, 1985's "Metal Inquisition."
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Forgotten Hard Rock Albums: "Babylon A.D." (1989)
Babylon A.D.'s debut album (1989) is one of the better "Hair Metal" albums of the late '80s. Unfortunately, the band came to the party a little too late to become one of the big names in the genre.
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Joey Ramone, "...Ya Know?" (2012) Album Review
YA KNOW? is the 2nd solo release by the late Joey Ramone. The album features 15 cuts assembled from unreleased demos that Joey had been working on prior to his tragic death.
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Guns N' Roses, "Chinese Democracy" (2008) Album Review
Guns N' Roses "comeback" album, 2008's CHINESE DEMOCRACY, appeared on the scene with 13 years of hype, but can now be found at your local dollar store. Is it worth the buck?
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Guillermo del Toro's "Mimic" (1997) Review
In Guillermo Del Toro's "MIMIC," a genetically-engineered insect is released into the New York subways to battle a cockroach problem, with horrific results.
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"Casino Royale" (1967) Movie Review
1967's CASINO ROYALE is a parody of the James Bond films starring David Niven, Peter Sellers, Ursula Andress, and Joanna Pettet - and they ALL play "James Bond 007." Sound weird? It is...
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Roger Corman's Cult Classics: "Forbidden World" (a.k.a. "Mutant") Review
"Forbidden World," a.k.a. "Mutant," is an "Alien" wanna-be from low-budget legend Roger Corman featuring a nasty creature, gore, goop, and lotsa female nudity. In other words, the perfect B-Movie!
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Top Ten: "Weird Al" Yankovic Song Parodies
"Weird Al" Yankovic has been pop music's Crown Prince of Parody for 30 years. It's well known in music circles that you haven't truly "made it" till Al parodies one of your songs. Here are my ten favorite spoofs from his extensive catalog.
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Top 20 "Simpsons" Supporting Characters
A Top 20 list of favorite Simpsons characters who are not members of the Simpson family. Since "the Simpsons" has such an extensive and rich "cast," it was tough to decide who made the cut!
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A Brief History of Dokken
A long time Dokken fan presents a brief history of the band and examines their extensive catalog of hard rock classics.
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"Witchslayer Gretl" (2012) Review
SyFy's "Witch Slayer Gretl" promises a twist on the classic fairy tale "Hansel and Gretel," but is it worth a look?
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German Metal Legends, Accept, Release "The Rise Of Chaos"
German metal legends Accept return in 2017 with the new studio album "The Rise of Chaos", their fourth disc with new vocalist, Mark Tornillo.
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I Still Wanna Be a Ramone!
A brief history and some fanboy perspective on the Ramones, aka the greatest rock band ever to set foot on God's green earth.
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Overkill: Thrash Metal Vets Return With "The Grinding Wheel"
Overkill consistently waves the flag for working class Thrash Metal. Their latest album THE GRINDING WHEEL was released in February of 2017. Here's a brief history of their impressive career.
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The Simpsons Rock! The Best Rock & Roll Moments From "The Simpsons"
"The Simpsons" has a proud history of guest appearances from rock 'n' roll royalty. Here are some of my favorite rockin' "Simpsons" moments.
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"Vertical Limit" (2000) Movie Review
In VERTICAL LIMIT, Chris O'Donnell and Bill Paxton star as extreme mountain climbers mounting an action packed rescue mission up Pakistan's killer "K2" peak.
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Great Bad Movies: "I Am Omega" (2007)
Mark ("Iron Chef America") Dacascos stars in "I Am Omega," a low-budget knockoff of Will Smith's "I Am Legend" from those jokers at The Asylum studios.
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KISS "Creatures of the Night" Album Review
"Creatures Of The Night" is considered one of KISS' best albums today, but in 1982 it seemed like their last gasp. It features new guitarist Vinnie Vincent and the anthem "I Love It Loud."
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"Red Dawn" (1984) Movie Review
In 1984's "Red Dawn," America is invaded by Communist aggressors, forcing a group of Colorado high schoolers to escape into the mountains and form a guerrilla resistance squad.
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Megadeth - "Th1rt3en" (2011) Review
"TH1RT3EN" is a 2011 release by legendary Speed Metal band Megadeth, featuring the single "Public Enemy No. 1"
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Great Bad Movies: "Demonic Toys" (1992)
In "Demonic Toys," a lady cop battles possessed playthings who have plans for her unborn child. The film was an early work by David S. Goyer, who went on to write "The Dark Knight!"
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"Evil Bong" (2006) Movie Review
A demonically-possessed bong draws four unlucky stoners into "BONG WORLD," an alternate dimension populated by killer strippers, and their only hope is... a chainsaw-wielding Tommy Chong. Seriously.
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"Prom Night" (1980) Review
In 1980's Prom Night, Jamie Lee Curtis is menaced by yet another masked psycho killer, this time at a high school prom. Watch for Leslie ("Airplane!") Nielsen in a supporting role.
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Revisiting Ridley Scott's "Blade Runner"
Ridley Scott's "Blade Runner" (1982) continues to spark discussion 30+ years after its release. I revisited the 2007 "Final Cut" re-issue and decided to share my thoughts on it.
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"KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park" (1978) Review
The super powered rock group KISS tangles with an evil inventor and his android army in this 1978 TV movie that's become a cult classic among KISS fans and bad movie aficionados alike.
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The Scoop on Feline Pine Clumping Litter
Feline Pine cat litter claims to be an environmentally safe, healthy alternative to traditional clay-based litter box products. How does it stack up? Your intrepid cat loving reporter fills you in on the Feline Pine scoop.
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"Blood Night: the Legend of Mary Hatchet" (2009) Movie Review
Danielle Harris stars in BLOOD NIGHT: THE LEGEND OF MARY HATCHET, in which a group of partying Long Island teens meet the spirit of a long-dead axe murderess. Hilarity ensues, as you might expect.
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"Halloween: Resurrection" (2002) Review
Halloween: Resurrection, released in 2002, is the 8th, and the least essential, film in the never-ending "Halloween" series.
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"Damnation Alley" (1977) Review
In 1977's DAMNATION ALLEY, George Peppard and Jan-Michael Vincent travel across a bombed-out America in a high-tech Land Rover vehicle. If you dig giant bugs and bad acting, then this is your movie.
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"Halloween: 20 Years Later" (1998) Review
Jamie Lee Curtis returned to the HALLOWEEN franchise in 1998's "Halloween: 20 Years Later," in which Laurie Strode faces her psychotic brother Michael Myers in a final battle.
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"Trick or Treat" (1986) Review
"Trick or Treat" is a heavy metal horror film from 1986. Nerdy high school headbanger Eddie raises his favorite rock star from the dead which leads to chaos at his high school's Halloween dance.
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"China O'Brien" (1988) Movie Review
"China O'Brien" is a 1988 martial arts/action film starring five time World Karate champion Cynthia Rothrock as a woman who cleans up her crime infested home town.
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"Man-Thing" (2005): The Forgotten Marvel Movie
The Marvel Comics swamp creature came to the (small) screen in 2005 in the form of a low budget creature feature directed by Brett ("The Lawnmower Man") Leonard.
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"Body Count" (1992) album review
In 1992, rapper Ice-T formed his own heavy metal band, Body Count, whose song "Cop Killer" ignited a battle over free speech and corporate responsibility.
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Sepultura's "Arise" -- Welcome to Their Jungle!
Sepultura was the first metal band from South America to make a splash on the world wide scene . Their 1991 album ARISE is still the high water mark by these Brazilian thrash/death metal masters.
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My Nissan Cube Experience
The Nissan Cube is an oddly endearing compact hatchback whose strange shape and cartoonish looks only add to its appeal. Trust me, you will get noticed when you drive this car.
- 14
Iron Maiden - "Brave New World" (2000) Review
BRAVE NEW WORLD was Iron Maiden's 2000 release, featuring the long awaited return of vocalist Bruce Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith.
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Ratt's "Infestation" and the Aftermath for the Band
"Infestation" was Ratt's first studio album since 1999 and their finest release since the glory days of the early 1980s. Unfortunately the reunion didn't last long.
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"Horror Express" (1972) Review
Christopher Lee, Peter Cushing and Telly Savalas star in this 1972 Euro-horror flick, battling a brain-sucking monster loose on a train at the turn of the century.
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Remembering Warrant's Jani Lane: 1964-2011
A look at the life and career of Jani Lane, former lead singer of the '80s rock band Warrant, who passed away on August 11, 2011.
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"Hell Night" (1981) Review
A post-"Exorcist" Linda Blair stars in this 1981 haunted house/slasher hybrid, where a group of fraternity pledges have an unpleasant run-in with a hulking, homicidal mutation.
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Great Bad Movies: "Nightmare City" aka "City of the Walking Dead" (1980)
A late entry into the Zombie craze of the late 70s/early 80s, this Spanish-Italian co-production stars Hugo Stiglitz and Laura Trotter battling an invasion of radioactive undead.
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"Maniac Cop" (1988) Movie Review
A psychotic police officer is stalking the mean streets of New York City in this gritty thriller. 1988's "Maniac Cop" is a cult "B" movie starring Bruce Campbell, Tom Atkins and Richard Roundtree.
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"Friday the 13th" (2009 remake) Review
2009's "Friday the 13th" is a "reboot" of the legendary slasher film series that attempts to explain the horrible origins of mass murderer Jason Voorhees.