Maximum Heavy Metal

CMC International's Maximum compilation series is one of those buyer-beware propositions, since it relies heavily on live versions and occasional studio re-recordings of big hits by well-known hard rock and heavy metal bands. Though the series does feature some good music, consumers should know that in most cases, they won't be getting the original versions of these songs. Maximum Heavy Metal has an NWOBHM bent, featuring two songs apiece from Judas Priest, Motorhead, and Saxon, plus Germany's Accept and L.A.'s W.A.S.P. There are some good performances here, but on the whole, they'll be necessary only for extremely devoted fans of the artists involved.