"Wasted Years" by Iron Maiden

English heavy metal band Iron Maiden are known for their fierce guitars and over the top solos, not for melody. Nonetheless, some of their songs have a downright catchy chorus that sticks in your head. Take a listen to "Wasted Years" for proof. If that's not enough, go check out "Can I Play With Madness."

Despite their worldwide fame, Iron Maiden has never managed a charting hit on the US Top 100. But they are probably proud of this.

"Why You Call" by Bucket & Co

In 2010, Dave "Bucket" Colwell released a unique project featuring some big name vocalists from bands like Thunder, The New York Dolls, The Quireboys, Iron Maiden, and more. For those who don't know, "Bucket" played guitar for Bad Company and FM among others. His 2010 all-star album was a labor of love for him, over two years in the making.

The project was named after the kickass starter, "Guitars, Beers & Tears". Bucket's playing is the one constant among these tracks, each sung by a different guest. Despite the change in singers, the record is remarkably cohesive and should appease fans of melodic hard rock. 

Perhaps one of the more unexpected guests on the record is pop folk artist Edwin McCain, who was a staple on late 90s radio with hits like "I'll Be" (which hit #5 in 1998) and "I Could Not Ask For More" (which hit #37 in 1999). On the Bucket & Co project, he sings a tune called "Survive" and one of my favorites from the record, "Why You Call".