Listen Up: The Virginmarys, Devon Allman

Devon Allman, son of Gregg, performs with his band, Royal Southern Brotherhood, last summer. Now he's releasing a solo record. (Credit: John Rucosky, The (Johnstown, Pa.) Tribune-Democrat, via AP)

The Virginmarys, King of Conflict
Rock
* * * ½ (out of four)

The power trio from Macclesfield, England, naturally extends the brand of visceral, raw-throated rock that runs from The Who through Motorhead and Nirvana. Riffed-up punk tunes and extended blues jams get treated with equal ferocity. - Brian Mansfield

Download:Dead Man's Shoes, Lost Weekend, Just a Ride

Bullet for My Valentine,Temper Temper
Metal
* * *

This Welsh band rose through the modern metal ranks, balancing old-school shredding with metalcore aggression. The group's fourth album hits like a shot through the heart but still can shift from guttural growls to adamantine harmonies in seconds. - Mansfield

Download:Riot, Temper Temper

Devon Allman,Turquoise
Blues-rock
* * *

After spending more than a decade with Honeytribe and Royal Southern Brotherhood, the vocalist/guitarist (Gregg's son) has stepped out with a solo album that tells his personal stories. Turquoise is well-crafted, more reflective than fiery, and soulful. - Jerry Shriver

Download:When I Left Home, Time Machine, Into the Darkness