BEST OF 2023 – Dave Wood (Radio Host/Sponsor Liason) 🇨🇦
You can find the Collective List as well as all our Best of 2023 content including contributors’ individual lists, podcasts and radio DJ shows here: CGCM’s Best of 2023 (Year in Review)
Dave Wood (aka: Andy Travis) one of CGCM Rock Radio‘s radio show hosts from the Canada showcases his personal top ten favourite albums of 2023 here in this article. Check out his recommendations and all of our CGCM staff’s lists through the link above.
#10 🇬🇧
MIDNITE CITY – In At The Deep End
I really enjoy Midnite City, and I’ve played them on my show a few times. I guess I’m gravitating more towards a melodic power rock/pop in my old age; and I’m ok with that! These guys are keeping that 80s hair band feeling alive and well and I love them for it! I would have never heard of them if not for CGCM Rock Radio. Each album they get better and better. Looking forward to what’s next from Midnite City! Favourite tracks are “Good Time Music” and “Someday“.
#9 🇬🇧
THE STRUTS – Pretty Vicious
Another band I’d never heard of before hearing them on CGCM Rock Radio. I like what I hear! Apparently, they’ve been around since 2012?! For a relatively new band, they sure keep that classic rock feel alive! It just shows you that regular radio isn’t supporting so much good new rock these days. I gotta dig into more of their back catalogue! Favourite tracks are “Too Good at Raising Hell” and “Pretty Vicious“.
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#8 🇺🇲
THE BITES – Squeeze
I thought this was a really fun record. Such an abundance of catchy riffs that really hook you in. I love it. 2023 was a good year for good ol’ melodic rock and these guys, though new on the scene, fit right in near the top! Favourite tracks are “Heather Leather” and “Knocking On The Door“.
#7 🇺🇲
ROBIN MCAULEY – Alive
Robin McAuley is back with his third solo album and he’s delivering the well-written melodic rock you would expect from him. If you’re looking for hard and catchy riffs and the lyrics to back it up, THIS is a record for you! Favourite tracks are “Alive” and “Feel Like Hell“.
#6 🇮🇹
KHYMERA – Hold Your Ground
Khymera is another band I had no idea existed before joining the ranks at CGCM Rock Radio. They are certainly a band worth looking into if you love your melodic rock! First time I heard them was their 2020 album Master of Illusions, and if you liked that one, you’re gonna love Hold Your Ground! Favourite tracks are “Believe In What You Want” and “Hear What I’m Saying“.
#5 🇳🇴
KARDANG – Rizky Biznizz
Kardang‘s previous release We Ain’t Dead Yet was my first introduction to that band. It was my #4 pick of 2022. This album is just as good, maybe even better! I think they’d be a blast to see live! Rizky Biznizz is a straight-up, fun melodic rock record worth checking out. Favourite tracks are “Don’t Let Me Drive” and “Change of Heart“.
#4 🇺🇲
DIRTY HONEY – Can’t Find The Breaks
I really enjoyed their last record, so I was stoked to see what was coming next from Dirty Honey. Caught them live a few years back in concert and instantly became a fan. To me, they’re a great blend of that sunset strip feel with some southern rock mixed in. Works for me! I love the Dirty Honeys! Favourite tracks are “Won’t Take Me Alive” and “Can’t Find The Breaks“.
#3 🇦🇺
CASSIDY PARIS – New Sensation
This album blew me away. I was completely surprised at how much I enjoyed this record! It was only released in December 2023, and in a few short weeks, it kept gaining ground on my top ten list. And this is her debut?! Well done Cassidy! I’m ready to line up for the next one! If you’re looking for female-fronted rock with catchy riffs that keep you groovin’ and wanting more. THIS is a record for you! Favourite tracks are “Addicted“, “Danger“, and “Walking On Fire“.
#2 🇺🇲
MAMMOTH WVH – Mammoth II
Wolfgang Van Halen is back! I thought his second release Mammoth II was a harder record than his first, and I’m certainly ok with that! His first album was my #3 pick overall in 2021. This one is just as good; but I’m sensing some growth on this album. Keep ’em coming Wolfie! Favourite tracks are “Another Celebration At The End Of The World“, “Take a Bow” and “Miles Above You“.
#1 🇺🇲
ALICE COOPER – Road
Ah, Alice… it’s so comforting to know you’re still out there after all these years rocking us in your own unique way! At 75 years old, he’s back with his 29th studio album! For me, his stuff never gets old. I haven’t enjoyed every record from him, but his releases in recent years have really resonated with me. I just love them! This one seems a little more ‘fun’ than his previous album Detroit Stories from 2021. A very enjoyable rock record. If you like Alice, I think you’ll like this one. It seems to fit in with his back catalogue. Favourite tracks are “Rules Of The Road“, “I’m Alice“, and “Welcome To The Show“.
