Magnum’s 1978 debut release Kingdom of Madness is definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of mid-70s rock – with the odd prog flourishes and Korg/Moog twiddles here and there – along with very strong vocals and melody.

Vixen was the 1988 debut album from all-girl US commercial rock band Vixen and has stood the test of time, bar the odd production sound, as a very strong collection of meolodic rock tracks from a talented, albeit short-lived, band.

With a sound lighter than a helium-filled feather, British AOR band FM broke onto the scene with Indiscreet, their debut album, in 1986 which showcased their ability to pen a fine melodic tune!

Escape is a 1981 album from AOR/melodic rock band Journey featuring Steve Perry and Neil Schon – hear MP3 samples and video

Isolation is a 1984 album by AOR band Toto featuring Jeff Procaro and Fergie Frederikson – hear MP3 samples and video

Paradise Theater is a 1981 album from ARO band Styx featuring James Young and Tommy Shaw – hear MP3 samples and video