Well, in short my description for 2009 is 'the best is yet to come'.
& that applies to MHR and modern rock.
I would agree that for MHR Place Vendome has not really been topped, although Farcry and Johnny Lima are both excellent discs as well. & from a metal perspective the new Heaven & Hell is just classic.
However I have the feeling that Place Vendome, as good as it is, will be eclipsed by Danger Danger and W.E.T. ..........those are the 2 killers for me that will top anything from last year.
In terms of modern rock, there are 3 or 4 releases so far which are excellent....namely Nural, Papa Roach, Halestorm and The Veer Union. But again come July we have Adelitas Way, Daughtry and New Device all releasing albums which have the potential to be really really excellent.
Here's hoping............