Throw in a few Spanish guitars for good measure and it really bloody works. It's so nice to hear a band keeping their roots with them as they play metal. This lot must be brilliant live. A release for those who have a bit of curiosity about them. Yes, I quite enjoyed this.

Montgomery Gentry: Back When I knew All

Liked this lot since I heard "Lonely & Gone" when it was a hit (even use it to warm up my own voice). This new album is their typical type of sub-Southern rock new country. A bit Charlie Daniels and a bit 38 Special with a serious dose of tongue-in-cheek lyrics. It's hard not to have a good time listening to them. For me it's a great antidote to some of the gloomy misery-guts that I listen to doing this gig.

There ain't one dog on this whole album; almost every song could be a hit. "Now You're Talkin'" and "It Ain't About Easy" are just typical of the quality on here. The tracks are catchy and have that sing along quality that is the expected norm in this genre. They even name check Skynrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" in the song "Now You're Talking" to stress the Southern rock link. The title track works nicely as well. Do yourself a favour and grab a copy of this CD. It's summer and you need this in your car player.

Ted Nugent: Sweden Rocks

As you might be able to tell from the title this was recorded at the annual Sweden Rocks festival a few years ago. Alas, its suffers from not up to scratch sound, which at times frustrates. Uncle Ted's vocals just don't come across as they should. "Full Bluntal Nugity" is a far better testament to Nuge's live show. Granted there are some tracks from his rather good recent studio album, but it does not push this into essential territory. If you can pick this up on sale, by all means do, especially if you are new to Nugent live, but be warned it does not reflect the ole' sod at his absolute best.

Finally, I am going to recommend a single that might shock you. I got a whiff of the new track from Billy Ray Cyrus (Yeah, him!) and got to say it freaking rocks. "Real Gone" is pure country rock summer glory. Let's just say no one is going to be line dancing to this sucker.

I hope you enjoyed this diverse lot of recent releases. Never can I be accused of having limited tastes. Head out and check out some live music won't you. Stay safe and rocking while you're at it.