Best albums

1. Epica - Design Your Universe
What can I say, I love Epica! What an excellent honour it was that I had the privilege to interview both key members Simone and Mark in the same year! I find that every Epica release is an enjoyable improvement; surpassing their past glorious achievements. Mark Jansen is an exceptional song writer, gifted musician, great kindred spirit, and Simone's vocals are ever so enchanting. In a world of overexposure and saturation, Epica have transcended Nightwish and Within Temptation.

2. Axxis - Utopia
I am amazed that Axxis have just celebrated 25 Years together. I am new to this band, but Wow! In a stagnant world of cliche' Power Metal bands, Axxis are at the top of their game. They have catchy melodies, inspirational lyrics, and they truly embody the Teutonic sound, that seems to be lacking lately with fellow Germans: Edguy or Mob Rules, or even other acts of their kind; especially, those from Sweden. If you are not familiar with them, then now is the time to discover a great band. They even had Andi Deris, Peavey, and Doro sing on their new album, and Bernhard Weiß contributed vocals to the new Dawn Of Destiny.

3. Stryper - Murder By Pride
I was not a big fan of Stryper's modern approach with their last album - 'Reborn'. I was grateful that with this new one, they returned more to their roots. The music is solid, the message is less preachy, and despite the tragic death of Michael's wife Kyle, his vocals are in classic form; especially, on the awesome Boston cover. Although it is not a complete return to form, it has catchy songs and excellent riffs and will appeal to fans of 'Against The Law'. Seeing them live was a real treat!

4. Ex Deo - Romulus
I am not a big Kataklysm fan, but I do respect Maurizio. He has truly honoured his ancestors with an honest album about the Roman Republic. The music is ever so epic, and evocative. Lately, I have raided my local library for History Channel DVDs about the glory of Rome. I learned more from 'Romulus', than I did when I was in school.

5. Steel Panther - Feel The Steel
Steel Panther blatantly state their sexual desires, in the way that those '80s bands only wish they could. It is like Seinfeld's episode for "The Contest", now you can say the word masturbation on "Two And A Half Men", but back then you could not even broach the subject. Well, Michael Starr and his band of recusants love to "Fuck All Night and Party All Day", and for me that beats "Livn' On A Prayer"!

Biggest disappointments

- The New Megadeth Album - Endgame
Please bear in mind, I sincerely love every Megadeth album (even 'Risk'); however, the material is essentially nothing new for Dave and his desperate attempt at finding a meaning to life. 'Death Magnetic', now this is a fukin' comeback, but of '08. I just cannot reconcile that this is the best album of the year, where were the Megadeth critics and supporters in the '90s? Did they forget about 'Youthanasia'!

- The Death Of Michael Jackson
R.I.P. Here is the tragic demise of the one man who inspired every genre of music of his generation! I am still waiting for an all out Heavy Metal Tribute to the King Of Pop! If you are interested in making this happen, get in touch with me.

- The State Of California's Decision To Overturn Legislature For Making Same Sex Marriage Legal
For many of those unaware, same sex couples could legally get married in the state of California until the recent November election. Now, these beloved partners have to go elsewhere for their nuptials to be deemed legal. I find this biased, unfair, and an invasion of human rights. While I am at it, the man whom I voted for Mr. Obama has done nothing productive all year, and in some cases he has made matter worse, but this is not really a Mettle concern.

- The End Of SPV/Steamhammer Records
This was one of my absolute favourite labels. I relished almost every signed act from Alice Cooper to Gamma Ray or Blackmore's Night to Helloween. It was because of the staff of SPV that my Skid Row experience was so awesome. Sadly, with the dissolution of SPV, Metal Church also disbanded.

- The Poor Turnout At Warriors of Metal
Why did nobody come to this incredible festival? There were so many great acts and only a handful of us present. Well, we did have a blast, despite the arctic summer freeze, and we made some new friends; especially, Heaven & Hell Records, who took such good care of us. Here is to better promotion and recognition for the Metal bands who truly make a difference like Aska, Twisted T D, Hellrazor, Catch 22, HammerHorde, Sacred Dawn, etc.

Best live concerts

1.Skid Row

2. AC/DC

3. Metallica

4. Slaughter

5. Impaler