February’s album was another one that I picked up at a gig in exchange for a whisky.

The latest three albums kind of give me an interesting thing to talk about: how I discover new bands.

You’d think, given my history of passing myself off as a guitarist, that Joe Bonamassa would be the main draw for me here. As it turns out, it’s the pipes rather than the strings that made me add this one to the library.

This album takes me back to that first time seeing them live. It’s weird that I’ve only just added this album to the library because overall it’s probably my favourite Alter Bridge album.

Originally released in 2005, this album was the epitome of cool to gangly, awkward, oversized T-shirt sporting, 17 year old, metal-head Phil.

Feral Roots fizzes and pops with all the energy and ambition that would usually characterise a debut record, yet is propelled further by the maturity that comes with a decade of experience.

Hurricane is a strong mission statement, and provides an impressive platform on which to build.

Ultimately Solas feels like an album The Answer wanted to make, rather than one they thought they should. A sterling return to form.

Although Sinnergod may play it a little safe here, fans of the genre will find a lot to like and there are a couple of real stand-out moments.

The fifth album from California rockers Rival Sons continues their trend for writing albums distinct from their predecessors. Another outstanding addition to their discography.

It’s a grower, but Photopia is very strong album who’s nuances are much more appreciated in familiarity.

Buffalo Summer’s embellishment of their established base ingredients with a more mature approach to song writing and a willingness to pull influence from outside their blues rock core make this an impressive second outing.

Another slice of genius by the Scottish outfit that is over all too quickly.

The album rattles along at a good pace, the quartet eschewing ballades and opting to keep the riffs coming right up until the final track. Few debuts can claim to be as polished and self-assured as Fed To The Lions.