First is the imminent release by Ryans Adams of one of the best songs from his newest album, ROCK N ROLL. So Alive is a pacy, soaring, melodious rock anthem complete with ringing guitar riffs, and Adams displaying a distinctly different vocal style from his norm. A great song, and a great performance. The other track on CD1 is a slow-paced and very moving previously unreleased song called I’m Coming Over. CD2 includes a video performance along with two new B-sides. Both CDs are highly recommended, and fans should remember that these previously unreleased tracks are unlikely to make it onto future albums. So, it’s either acquire them now or pay biggish bucks on Ebay later…

Scandinavia duo The Raveonettes released a single in December that really caught my attention with its huge melody and 60’s rock riff-ridden vibe. If Heartbreak Stroll is from a forthcoming album, it’s one I can’t wait to hear.

The long-awaited Guns N’ Roses Video Collection on DVD has been followed by two live DVDs. Use Your Illusion Volume 1 and Volume 2 were filmed during the band’s 1992 World Tour. These cover all the songs performed on the Tokyo leg of the tour and if you possess a full surround sound set-up, you’ll be blown away. The sound and image quality is amazing considering these recordings pre-date the DVD format by a few years, although of course digital sound reproduction was in its prime. A must-have for fans, these DVDs reproduce the excellent live quality of the band in addition to adding that special atmosphere created by an adoring, enthusiastic audience. You’ve got the CDs, now get the show, and warn the neighbours…

Much has been said about the new band Keane becoming worthy successors to Coldplay. The band’s background is similar, as is their sound and after obtaining a copy of their last single (selling for well over £20 on Ebay), I admired but was not inspired. Last year I attended a Brendan Benson concert in Liverpool and supporting were a band with the rather esoteric name of Ella Guru. Benson was ordinary whereas Guru were distinctive, original and truly inspiring. This is their first single release that no doubt will end up as collectors’ fodder - so find it and buy it as soon as you can. The single/EP is called 3 Songs From Liverpool and it’s just about the most heavenly pop you’ll hear all year. But it’s also quality, and if Keane can write themselves a 20 album deal, then Ella Guru should be able to buy the record company. They’re different, and they’re great.

I’ve seen Snow Patrol conquer the crowds twice in Ireland at the Witnness Festival, and have been impressed. Taken from their latest and highly acclaimed album, FINAL STRAW this is rock pop of the most beautiful and moving quality. Melody opens the door before a Gary Lightbody nails the song with a deep expressive and masterful vocal. Run is set to be one of the singles of the year and should cement this Irish band’s position in the hearts and minds of the UK public. Now will somebody send me the bloody album…?

P.O.D.’s latest album, PAYABLE ON DEATH was selected as one of our best rock albums of 2003, and Will You is certainly one of the best songs off the album. If you’ve yet to be impressed with the band then this four track enhanced single may finally convince you. Try it and see for yourself why this band is so huge in the USA at the moment with their special brand of melodic and meaningful heavy rock.

Taken from The Jeevas COWBOYS & INDIANS album released late in 2003, this single (due for release on the 2nd February, 2004) is arguably the best track from this album of great song covers. Creedence Clearwater Revival’s Have You Ever Seen The Rain has always been one of my personal favourites of that era, and The Jeevas version is a warm, gentle, meandering and excellent cover.

The latest Incubus album, A CROW LEFT OF THE MURDER is released here in the UK on the 2nd February, 2004. Megalomaniac is set to be the first single off the album (release date 26th February, 2004) and is a biting, jagged slice of rock music with angry drum rhythm and just a hint of melody. If this is a sample of what’s to come then it will be an uncompromising album, and another to watch out for.

Finley Quaye returned to the fold in 2003 with arguably his best album to-date in SOMETHING TO SAY. The title track is due to receive its single release on the 2nd February, 2004 and is well worth considering. Firstly there is Quaye’s distinctive and smooth voice that provided the soundtrack to the 1997 music scene. Then there’s the beauty of this particular song with its wonderful soft country vibe, gospel undertones and intelligent lyrics. Given media airing, this single could be the surprise of 2004.

The Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster were highly hyped in 2002/2003 but have failed to impress me, especially after witnessing their live performance at last year’s Download Festival. Mister Mental is the band’s latest single and ain’t that bad for a rampant rock tune. There’s even a trace of melody to help the digestive system. I understand that the band has been spending time over in the USA writing and recording which may help the band cement their sound and direction. The other tracks on the single are head-banging affairs with a touch more integrity, however, I remain to be convinced…