Welcome to the first issue of 2008, and I hope all our readers had a good Christmas and New Year. As a belated present we bring you not one, not two, but three CDs crammed full of great melodic rock. Enjoy!

In the ‘What a great idea' listings, I'm so happy to see Def Leppard and Whitesnake undertaking a co-headlining tour of the UK later this year. Having seen both bands in the past few years, I doubt I would have been talked into going to see either in a solo headlining capacity, but having both bands play together – with fantastic up and coming band Black Stone Cherry supporting – is a wonderful idea, giving amazing value for money, and must be applauded. One can only hope that this tour is a success, and imagine possible future pairings hitting the UK shores.

Regarding successes, I'd just like to take the chance – in print – to thank all of those who attended the sold out Firefest 4 show last year. A tremendous day's entertainment, and a good time was had by all. At time of writing, the line-up for Firefest 5 has not been finalised, and to be honest it's becoming wearisome trying to get bands to commit to the show – or in some cases, even getting replies from agents. But hopefully we'll have everything in place, if not by the time you're reading this, then the very near future.

The DVDs shot at Firefest 4 are coming along very nicely, and the first releases (Harem Scarem and FM) should be out very soon, with Valentine and Crunch to follow. There will be a limited edition version (1000 copies only) with both DVD and audio CD, available directly only from Firefest site and bands' websites. Keep checking www.thefirefest.com for details.

See ya all next issue!!

-- Bruce Mee