Signals From Mars – Episode 392 – First Half Of 2024 Albums

Ten Biggest Stories in Hard Rock and Heavy Metal in 2024

1. Judas Priest‘s New Album: Invincible Shield marks Judas Priest‘s triumphant return, proving that even after five decades, they remain a dominant force in heavy metal. Rob Halford’s iconic vocals shine throughout the album, which has been lauded as one of their best in years. [Sources: Louder Sound, Jones Around the World]
2. Kerry King‘s Solo Debut: Former Slayer guitarist Kerry King released his debut solo album From Hell I Rise, featuring a lineup of notable musicians. This album has been praised for blending King’s thrash roots with new punk elements. [Source: Louder Sound]
3. Monsters of Rock Cruise: The 2024 edition of the Monsters of Rock Cruise featured a stellar lineup including Winger, Queensrÿche, and KK’s Priest. The cruise offered fans a unique experience with performances, Q&A sessions, and various interactive events. [Source: Blabbermouth]
4. Knocked Loose‘s Breakthrough: Kentucky hardcore band Knocked Loose released You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To, a brutally powerful album that has brought them mainstream attention and acclaim from both fans and critics. [Source: Louder Sound]
5. Hamferd‘s Thematic Album: Faroese death-doom band Hamferð released Men Guds Hond Er Sterk, an album based on a historical maritime disaster. This record has been noted for its dramatic and epic compositions. [Source: Louder Sound]
6. Ministry‘s Political Statement: Ministry‘s Hopiumforthemasses continues their tradition of politically charged music, tackling contemporary issues with some of their most engaging material since the mid-2000s. [Source: Louder Sound]
7. Ou‘s Collaboration with Devin Townsend: Chinese prog metal band Ou collaborated with Devin Townsend on their second album, II: Frailty. This album pushes the boundaries of prog metal with its innovative sound. [Source: Louder Sound]
8. Major Festivals: Festivals like Aftershock and Louder Than Life continue to draw massive crowds with lineups featuring bands like Korn, Guns N’ Roses, and Green Day, cementing their status as premier events in the rock and metal calendar. [Sources: Jones Around the World, Metal Shout]
9. Psycho Las Vegas: Known for its eclectic lineups and vibrant atmosphere, Psycho Las Vegas remains a top destination for metal fans, offering a mix of legendary and emerging acts in the heart of Sin City. [Source: Jones Around the World]
10. 70000 Tons of Metal Cruise: This unique festival on a cruise ship featured performances from bands like Angra, Epica, and Sodom, providing fans with an immersive metal experience on the high seas. [Source: Metal Shout]