Raymond Heleband is a music critic and photographer with a deep-rooted passion for rock and metal. He writes album reviews and concert reports for The Rock Online, where he combines sharp, honest commentary with a strong visual perspective. After initially writing for the Headbangerslifestyle platform—which ceased operations in April 2026—for seven years, his photography can also be seen regularly in Aardschok magazine.
Raymond captures the atmosphere of a performance in his photos and writing. His work features both established acts and up-and-coming talent. Music, photography, and authenticity are Raymond’s cornerstones. For years, he has made his mark on the music scene as a guitarist and composer and has built lasting friendships. Among the highlights he has experienced live are: Gotthard live in 1994 at Via Rock Geraardsbergen, Belgium, and Mötley Crüe live in 2009 at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, USA.
With “Year Of The Snake”, the ladies of The Gems are releasing their second album within 2 years. Their debut album “Like A Phoenix,” released in 2024, received generally positive feedback, and the band, or rather the trio behind the band, have put on quite a few performances with the help of various bassists. There…
And then there is album no. 17 from trash legends Megadeth. Or should I write Mr. Dave Mustaine, because he is, of course, the driving force and mastermind behind this band. The album was announced in August 2025; its release will be accompanied by the band’s farewell tour. This should be the farewell, because this…
Last week, rock legend Michael Schenker honored us with a second round of his “My Years with UFO” tour. Whereas last year he performed at the Muziekgieterij in Maastricht, this time fans were able to welcome him at the beautiful Parkstad Limburg Theater in Heerlen. Although the show was certainly not sold out, I am…
Sunday, February 8, it was time once again to visit the poppodium Nieuwe Nor in Heerlen. The ladies of Burning Witches and the gentlemen of Hammer King are currently on tour under the banner of their “Witches and Kings Tour.” On this dreary Sunday, the small hall of Nieuwe Nor is well filled with more…
Solo album #13 for the one and only Michael Monroe. The man who is forever intertwined with the history of his former band Hanoi Rocks. “Outerstellar” is an album brimming with punk-driven sleazy hard rock songs. The man himself is something of a legend in Finland, but let’s be honest, it’s pretty clear by now…