Atomic Opera – For Madmen Only (Collector’s Edition CD)

Originally released in 1994 on Warner Brothers/Giant RecordsFor Madmen Only introduced Atomic Opera to a national audience with its unique blend of heavy groove, progressive rock textures, and layered harmonies.

Produced by Sam Taylor, the album captured the band’s powerful and thoughtful sound at a time when heavy music was evolving rapidly. The standout single “Justice” received rotation on MTV and metal radio, helping the band reach listeners well beyond the underground. Atomic Opera would go on to tour in support of the record alongside metal legend Dio, bringing their dynamic sound to audiences across the country.

The album’s title itself hints at its deeper intent. Borrowed from Hermann Hesse’s novel Steppenwolf, the phrase “For Madmen Only” refers to the mysterious Magic Theatre — a place where people confront the hidden sides of themselves. For Atomic Opera, that idea captured the spirit of the record: music meant not simply to comfort, but to be entered, explored, and wrestled with.

This Retroactive Records Collector’s Edition CD is limited to just 300 copies and includes a CD-only bonus track featuring the radio edit of “Justice.” The package also features a 16-page booklet and a new 2026 reflection written by band leader Frank Hart, revisiting the story behind the album and the creative spirit that produced it.

Atomic Opera – Alpha & Oranges (Collector’s Edition CD)

While recording For Madmen Only, Atomic Opera created far more music than could ultimately fit on the album. The material that remained would eventually become Alpha & Oranges, a fascinating collection of recordings from the same creative era.

Produced by Sam Taylor, these songs were recorded in Houston studios between 1990 and 1993 and showcase the band’s creative momentum during the sessions that produced their major label debut.

The sessions themselves were legendary. Atomic Opera often recorded late at night in the same studio used by King’s X during the day, using the same gear and sonic environment that helped define the distinctive Houston groove-rock sound.

Rather than simple leftovers, the songs on Alpha & Oranges reveal a band exploring the full range of their musical identity — from powerful riff-driven passages to reflective, harmony-rich moments that highlight their progressive influences.

Originally released in 1999 as a CD-only title on Massive Groove Productions, the album has long been sought after by collectors and fans.

This Retroactive Records Collector’s Edition CD is limited to just 300 copies, packaged in a jewel case with a 16-page booklet, and includes a new 2026 reflection written by Frank Hart about the origins of these recordings and the creative energy surrounding the band at the time.

Atomic Opera – For Madmen Only (Limited Lime Green Vinyl)

Atomic Opera’s major label debut finally arrives in a limited collector vinyl edition.

Pressed on striking lime green vinyl and mastered for vinyl by Rob Colwell (King’s X, Galactic Cowboys), this edition allows fans to experience the powerful sonic depth of For Madmen Only in a completely new way.

This special vinyl pressing includes a 12×12 full-color lyrics insert and a 2026 write-up by Frank Hart, reflecting on the album’s creation and its lasting legacy.

Limited to just 200 copies worldwide, this is an essential release for fans of the Houston groove-rock scene.

Atomic Opera – Alpha & Oranges (Limited Orange Vinyl)

For the first time ever, Alpha & Oranges arrives on vinyl.

This special edition is pressed on limited orange vinyl and features mastering for vinyl by Rob Colwell, ensuring the powerful studio recordings translate beautifully to the analog format.

Originally released only on CD in 1999, the album captures Atomic Opera during the fertile creative period surrounding For Madmen Only, offering fans a deeper look into the band’s songwriting and sonic exploration.

This vinyl edition includes a 12×12 full-color lyrics insert and a 2026 reflection from Frank Hart, giving listeners insight into the origins of these recordings.

With only 200 copies pressed, this release is expected to disappear quickly.

Video: https://youtu.be/zLgwx7HAKB4?si=8YRzrOcAOPIeYTUk

Purchase: https://boonesoverstock.com/blogs/news/atomic-opera-returns-four-limited-collector-editions-launch-march-12

From Germany to USA — Seventh Avenue – Between The Worlds CD & First-Time-Ever Vinyl

German melodic power metal fans — this one has been a long time coming.

Originally released in 2003 on Massacre Records in Germany, Between The Worlds stands as one of the strongest entries in early-2000s European power metal. While many U.S. fans may not yet know Seventh Avenue, in Europe they earned a reputation for soaring melodies, tight musicianship, and unforgettable choruses.

Musically, the album sits comfortably alongside Helloween, Gamma Ray, and Stratovarius — packed with speed, harmony guitars, uplifting arrangements, and massive hooks. Fans of Blind Guardian and Rage will feel right at home.

Standout tracks like “A Step Between the Worlds,” “Tales of the Forgotten Dreams,” and “Wings of Dawn” showcase the band’s melodic strength and technical polish. And yes — the epic power-metal interpretation of Survivor’s “Burning Heart” absolutely rips.

Now, for the first time ever:

• Official USA release
• First time ever on vinyl
• Newly remastered by Rob Colwell
• Part of the exclusive Metal Icon Series

This reissue finally gives Between The Worlds the presentation it deserves for American collectors and power metal fans alike.

Video: https://youtu.be/Jk6hHYcWWj8?si=Rr04PlXS7ZIEZhh4

Purchase: https://boonesoverstock.com/blogs/news/german-power-metal-returns-seventh-avenue-between-two-world-cd-vinyl-remasters-pre-orders-launch-3-12-26

Apostle – White Metal (Orange Vinyl

Originally recorded in 1985 and released independently on cassette, White Metal captured Apostle at their most raw and determined. From the opening track, Apostle, showcasing Iron Maiden-esque galloping instrumental heavy metal, to the anthemic vocals of “Born Again,” Apostle delivers with power, strength, and authority throughout. At a time when Christian metal was just beginning to find its voice, Apostle stood out for their conviction and authenticity — playing everywhere from churches and youth centers to clubs and open-air festivals. The album’s fiery guitar work and straight-ahead lyrics reflected the heart of guitarist and vocalist Matt Harding, who viewed heavy metal not as rebellion, but as a vehicle for redemption.

This reissue brings White Metal to Vinyl for the very first time, featuring the band’s original 1984 demo EP as bonus tracks. Songs like “Overcomer,” “The Teacher,” and “He’s the Power” showcase Apostle’s earliest lineup and the unmistakable energy that would define their sound for decades.

Armageddon” is a must-hear iconic ripping guitar solo track in the vein of “Nagasaki” by Whitecross and “Eruption” by Van Halen!

Fully remastered by Rob Colwell and restored with historical artwork and archival notes, White Metal is more than a reissue — it’s the first official preservation of Apostle’s origin story. Part of the exclusive Metal Icon Series collection, the Orange Vinyl comes with a 12×12 full color insert packed including everything music collectors crave. Limited to just 200 copies.

Apostle – Chariots of Iron (Blood Red Vinyl

Originally recorded and released in 1987, Chariots of Iron built upon Apostle’s early demo (1984) and White Metal (1985) foundation with greater musical range (faster tempos and added classical elements), refined production, and lyrical depth.

Distributed only through the underground tape network of the late ’80s, the album revealed Apostle’s growing sophistication and spiritual intensity. Tracks such as “Sword & Shield,” “Lake of Fire,” and “Lamb of God” combine melodic guitar work, anthemic choruses, and bold biblical imagery—calling listeners to perseverance and spiritual courage. The fiery, explosive heavy metal on Chariots of Iron reflects the armored tank artwork that adorns the cover of this reissue, while the message inside faithfully communicates the unconditional love of God for a broken world.

Unavailable for decades and rarely heard outside small circles of collectors, Chariots of Iron now receives its first official Vinyl release as part of the Retroactive Records Metal Icon Series. Limited to just 200 units.  

Remastered by Rob Colwell and featuring expanded packaging with contextual notes (12×12 full color insert), this release restores one of Christian metal’s best-kept secrets—a powerful reminder of why Apostle’s music continues to inspire believers and metal fans alike.

Video: https://youtu.be/8T6CMJn1GgU?si=BOVpS7p17RTHyWD3

Purchase: https://boonesoverstock.com/search?q=Apostle

Petra – Hope 250-Hand-numbered, Orange Vinyl

Few bands in Christian rock history carry the weight, legacy, and influence of Petra. For over five decades, Petra helped build the foundation of faith-driven rock music—earning Grammy Awards, Dove Awards, worldwide tours, and millions of albums sold. More than success, they shaped a movement.

Now, more than twenty years after their last studio release, Petra returns with HOPE — a brand-new collection of 10 original songs that proves their fire has not faded.

This is not a nostalgia project.
This is not leftover material.
HOPE is intentional, focused, and fully alive.

Driven by founding guitarist Bob Hartman, whose signature riffs and songwriting instincts remain razor sharp, the album delivers the unmistakable Petra sound fans have loved for decades. John Schlitt sounds as powerful and commanding as ever—his voice seasoned, confident, and deeply expressive. They’re joined by longtime keyboard master John Lawry, bassist Greg Bailey, and drummer Cristian Bornero—bringing precision, depth, and classic rock authority to every track.

The result?

Classic Petra energy with seasoned conviction.

There’s urgency here. There’s melodic strength. There’s lyrical depth born from experience. These songs feel lived-in — shaped by faith, perseverance, and decades of walking the road.

HOPE doesn’t chase trends. It doesn’t try to reinvent Petra. It reaffirms who they are.

For lifelong fans, this album feels like a long-awaited promise fulfilled. For new listeners, it’s proof that meaningful, faith-centered rock music still carries power — and purpose.

In a world that often feels uncertain, the message at the heart of this album remains steady:

There is still HOPE.

Video: https://youtu.be/BlgWWC6vyS4?si=Yuj3XTFkDQtzYH3m

Purchase: https://boonesoverstock.com/collections/retroactive-records/products/petra-hope-250-hand-numbered-orange-vinyl-2026-boones-overstock-exclusive

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