The problem with too many melodic hard rock releases is that they focus too much on the "melodic" and not enough on the "hard rock." Such is not the case with W.E.T.'s "Retransmission," a melodic hard rock album with plenty of melody but with an edge that makes it beautifully listenable.

"Retransmission" is a big, hard-rocking album with amazingly full production and incredible talent by all on full display. It’s full of fist-pumping anthems and soaring rockers and the beauty here is that the keyboards add depth, not soften the sound, which, once again, happens far too often.

It's hard to say I've got a favorite track here because they all kick ass, even the token ballad, "What Are You Waiting For" which bolsters its slow pace with stunning vocals (the legendary Jeff Scott Soto) and super-crisp sound. It reminds me of Kiss's "Forever" in its tone and I love that tune, too.

I’ve heard a number of great albums already this young year and "Retransmission" is way up on the top of the list.

W.E.T.:  Keyboardist Robert Säll, guitarist Erik Mårtensson, vocalist Jeff Scott Soto, lead guitarist Magnus Henriksson, bassist Andreas Passmark. and drummer Robban Bäck.

For more information, check out www.wet.band.