On a week like this, metal has to fight for its new releases to get recognized. We have a short list today. Let’s just get right to it so you can get to buying some of these new albums!

Airbourne, Black Dog Barking (Roadrunner)

This album was first announced back in November 2011, so it’s been in the works for some time. After the success of No Guts. No Glory., Airbourne has a lot to live up to on this new album. Although the album only peaked at #90 on the US charts, No Guts. No Glory. broke into the top 20 in nine other countries, and even reached the top 10 in three of the nine. Improving on those performances could mean even greater recognition and appreciation worldwide, and for a band as young as Airbourne, that would be a very impressive feat. With eleven different songs featured in video games, two different songs used as WWE event themes, several song credits in movies and TV, and massive worldwide touring credentials, Airbourne are still rising and ready to take over the rock scene with their fresh take on classic sounds.

Also being released this week:

U.D.O., Steelhammer (AFM)

Timo Tolkki’s Avalon The Land Of New Hope (Frontiers)
 

A Pale Horse Named Death, Lay My Soul to Waste (Steamhammer/SPV)
 

Helix, R-O-C-K! Best of 1983-2012 (Cleopatra)

Saffire, From Ashes to Fire (Inner Wound)
Zed Desperation Blues (I And I)

Next Week: After a stellar comeback four years ago, one of the greatest grunge bands in history releases the long-awaited sequel to the comeback. Let’s see how it goes for them in seven days!