Another barnstorming rock ‘n’ roll year has almost come to an end at MetalTalk Towers, and as per usual, it has been an absolute belter. But before I get into some of the memorable highs, I feel addressing a heartbreaking low is the correct place to start.
MetalTalk has a fantastic working relationship with the Iron Maiden camp, and the connection with former members from the band’s formative years has always been a healthy one.
So when the news broke of the sudden death of their former lead singer, Paul Di’Anno, it was a crushing and devastating blow. Recently, I had the pleasure of reviewing his revitalising Warhorse album, a collection of tunes that heralded a rebirth in the iconic front man’s career. 
Sadly, the fruits of this tremendous release were not to be realised, but we are still blessed to be left with the memories he gave us with the first two Maiden albums, which set a precedent for the future of Heavy Metal. Rest in peace, Paul. Your soul will fly forever.
While I am on the subject of scintillating albums, March brought us Di’Anno’s successor, Bruce Dickinson’s long-awaited new solo opus, The Mandrake Project. As expected, Metal’s favourite fencing pilot and accomplished brewer delivered majestic conceptual anthems brimming with intrigue. Standout track, the hammer-horror vibes of Rain On The Graves.
Other album highlights include the return of supergroup extraordinaires Black Country Communion with V, once again delivering the goods with consummate ease.
We bid a sad farewell to the legendary pen of Tony Clarkin with the release of Magnum’s 23rd studio album, Here Comes The Rain, another melodic triumph. The ever-changing face of The Dead Daisies continued their impressive run of superb albums with Light ‘Em Up, while the age-defying Ian Hunter continued to roll out quality tunes with a star-studded ensemble on Defiance Part 2.
But if I must pick a favourite album, then Lancaster’s finest Massive Wagons win by a complete landslide with the all-conquering Earth To Grace. Tune after tune, this album would warm the cockles of the coldest of hearts. Spin Night Skies and Missing On TV for instant addiction. And although not a MetalTalk work night, their show in Dublin just a few weeks ago knocked years off me, bloody amazing.
Looking for an exciting up-and-coming band to champion in 2025? Then I order you to look no further than The Rattlebacks. As debut albums go, Sidewinder is as good as anything I’ve heard in the last 30-odd years. These guys bring an eclectic platter of sounds to the table, all delivered with the force of an Usyk uppercut. You will not tire of the brilliant Dementia Lounge and The Taste.
Picking a favourite gig is genuinely a bugger to decide, as I had the pleasure of covering some right corkers throughout the year. I honestly did not think a ripper of a night with Blaze Bayley celebrating the 30th anniversary of his stint with Iron Maiden in the cosy confines of Whelan’s in Dublin could be topped.
But Mexico’s exciting young trio The Warning were equally as engaging as they marked their Dublin debut with a non-stop barrage of effervescent anthems.
KK’s Priest rolled into town, giving Judas Priest fanatics a thrilling and up close and personal performance, but it was opening act Tailgunner that left the biggest impression on me that night. This mob of whippersnappers proudly flaunt their love for classic British Metal with their look, attitude and throat-grabbing tunes. After their swashbuckling 45-minute slot, I was left in no doubt that this is a band worthy of being on the Metal frontline for years to come.
The ridiculously talented Ritchie Kotzen made his first Dublin appearance since his Poison days and reigned supreme with a fine collection of songs from his humongous back catalogue. Being at the tail end of a long and gruelling tour, and with his often straight-faced demeanour, you could have been forgiven for thinking he was not firing on all cylinders, but he held the healthy gathering at Opium captive all night long.
But with best gig, I’m going with Fleetwood Mac legend Stevie Nicks at the 3Arena, and despite her annoying, overly long nattering between songs, her career-spanning set was nothing short of magical. Despite being seated up in the gods, it was like she was singing songs like Dreams, Gypsy and Landslide for me and me only.
I have many MetalTalk gig nights already lined up for next year, but the one that already has me watching the calendar is Iron Maiden at Malahide Castle. Although this is a decent trek out of Dublin city, which will treble in time with concert traffic, the historic setting is perfect to celebrate the Heavy Metal’s High King’s 50th anniversary.
Here’s to fist raising 2025.
