If you like good hard rock you could do a lot worse than this CD.

Empire: Chasing Shadows

Doogie White on vocals, Neil Murray on bass and Mike Terrana on drums give one the feeling of a bit of a supergroup, don't they? The band is based around German guitarist Rolf Munkes who, considering the players on this CD, is damn well connected. As you would expect from such players there is a strong Rainbow/Whitesnake vibe on here with lots of power and playing. The songs are up to snuff as well whether it be the title track or the hymn-like “The Alter.”

Quality players, good material and talent adds up to something special if you get it right. And Empire get it right in droves. Something worth seeking for you hard rock fans out there.

Steve Grimmett Band: s/t

Powerfully voiced Grimmett has fronted a myriad of bands of a variety of styles. From the heavy metal of Grim Reaper to the melodic rock of Lionsheart the man continues to demonstrate the range and breadth of his vocal chops. On this release he continues to show us all how its done. Having seen him live; its great to see his power and majesty translated onto disc.

This 11-track hard rock affair is closer in feel to Lionsheart than Grim Reaper or Onslaught but nonetheless there is a lot of bottom end there. Most interesting to me is the fact that Steve has engaged a female vocalist to provide counterbalance on the great track “Enemy.” If you have never heard Grimmett hard rock material then this might be a good place to start. You will agree with me that its pretty hard to deny his talent.

Well that is your lot for this week. It's about all I can muster right now writing wise.

I've got a pile of review material to continue going through so there is no problem for content of this column.

I would like to thank all those who sent me kind wishes before and during my cancer ordeal. I am told that its been cleared out and now I'm recovering.

As always stay safe and rocking; make sure you get to see as much live music as you can.