R.I.P. DOC NEESON - THE ANGELS:
After an 18 month battle with cancer, Australian rock legend Doc Neeson, vocalist for The Angels (known as Angel City in North America) has passed away earlier this morning local time. The official statement reads:
"It is with deep sadness and regret that the family of Angels singer/songwriter Bernard 'Doc' Neeson - loving father, family member and friend to so many - announce he has passed away in his sleep at 7.15am, today, 4th June 2014. He has battled with a brain tumour for the last 17 months and sadly lost his fight this morning. He will be deeply missed by his family and partner Annie Souter who would all like to thank everyone for their support through this dark time. "We love you Dad. You couldn't have made any of your sons more proud of you if you tried. May your beautiful soul rest in peace sweet angel, fly high." Dzintra, Daniel, Aidan and Kieran.
"Good Night, Sweet Prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest." With love forever, Annie - borrowed from William Shakespeare - Hamlet.
From: News.com.au - "Doc Neeson, the lead singer of Australian rockers The Angels, has died of brain cancer. He was 67. The singer behind hits such as Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again? was diagnosed with a brain tumour in January 2013. Neeson underwent surgery to remove the tumour but he confirmed it had returned in April this year, confirming it might be "life threatening". "The news is grim, but some people can get through this, and that's the way I try to think about things," he told the ABC's Australian Story. "So I'm looking forward optimistically to the future."
Neeson said his initial reaction to the tumour had been: "shock of course". "When somebody puts a use by date on me, but I still hung on to a shred of hope that I'd get back on the stage at some point."
In March this year he released his first single in seven years, Walking in the Rain, after performing the song to critical acclaim on the SBS TV show Rockwiz. Neeson was born in Belfast and moved with his family to Adelaide when he was 13. The Angels started life in Adelaide as The Moonshine Jug and String Band in the early 1970s. They went on to become the Keystone Angels.
In 1975, they became simply The Angels and a year later they released their breakthrough single Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again. Their other hits included Take a Long Line, Marseilles, Shadow Boxer, No Secrets, and a cover version of the Eric Burdon hit We Gotta Get Out Of This Place. Neeson's final gig with the bad was in New Year's Eve in 1999.
Jon Stevens (Dead daisies/Noiseworks): "It's a sad day for Australian rock n roll. Doc Neeson was one of the greatest front men of Aussie rock.. he wrote and performed so many timeless classics with The Angels that will never be forgotten. Thank you Doc."
Craig Csongrady (BB Steal): "R.I.P Doc Neeson - The Voice of The Angels It's been a great honour for all in BB Steal to have shared the stage with you over the many years. You were a true Gentleman a True Star and a Giant of the Stage. You will be very sadly missed, but never forgotten."
FRONTIERS RECORDS MAY 2014 RELEASES SPOT (OFFICIAL): Frontiers Records May 2014 Releases Spot (Official) / Featuring California Breed, Timo Tolkki's Avalon & Neal Schon.
JAMES KOTTACK ISSUES STATEMENT ON ARREST:
Statement from James Kottak: "After years of drinking alcohol, on April 3rd, 2014 my addiction finally caught up with me during a 5-hour flight from Ekaterinburg, Russia to Bahrain via Dubai, during which I consumed 5 or 6 glasses of wine. While at the airport in Dubai I approached an airline representative to check on status of my flight. The representative informed me that I was in the wrong place and I replied "WTF?!." The representative then called the police and reported that I was intoxicated (which I was) and that I made a lewd jester.
One of the police officers recognised me as drummer of "The Scorpions". When the police asked me to show my ID., I showed them the "Rock & ROLL FOREVER" tattoo on my back, instead of my actual ID. which was in my back pack my friend was carrying for me. Apparently, the police did not find this funny and I was charged with "Drinking Without a License", for which I pleaded guilty and received a one-month sentence and a 2,000 Dirham (300 USD) fine. I was also charged with insulting Islam/Muslims by making a lewd jester for which I pleaded not guilty and did not actually do.
Upon returning to the United States on May 6th, I immediately reached out to Bob Forrest, an addiction specialist known for his work with musicians and "Celebrity Rehab". I have been meeting with Bob on a regular basis. He has guided me to the MusiCares Organization, which provides musicians with help for mental health and addiction issues.
I am determined to come to grips with my alcoholism and am doing everything on a daily basis to beat this relentless disease. This entire incident caused me to realize that it is time to stop drinking once and for all so that I can become the father, musician, and friend that I know I can be.
I am glad to put this unfortunate incident behind me and move onward and upward with my life. I would like to send out a HUGE thank-you to my family, friends and fans around the world for their incredible loving support…you kick ass! I would also like to send a sincere apology from the bottom of my heart to everyone I have affected and look forward to seeing you all!!
With love, James Kottak - Tomorrow is a brand new day!"
JIMMY PAGE, ROBERT PLANT, JOHN PAUL JONES INTHESTUDIO FOR LED ZEPPELIN I, II, III DELUXE RELEASES:
Dallas, TX - June 3, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the release of three classic Led Zeppelin albums in new deluxe editions.
There has been considerable buzz in the rock music world ever since Jimmy Page, the brilliantly gifted architect of the Led Zeppelin sound since it was unleashed forty-five years ago, announced that he was personally overseeing a comprehensive updating of the entire Led Zeppelin catalog as deluxe editions with remastered sound, new twenty-first century artwork and graphics, previously unreleased demos, alternate mixes and thos notoriously bootlegged live Led Zeppelin concert performances. Jimmy Page, Robert Plant and John Paul Jones guest InTheStudio, to share stories behind the making of these iconic albums and provide insight into the decision to revisit the music and create deluxe editions. Jimmy Page tells InTheStudio host Redbeard why he believes Led Zeppelin was so successful from the beginning. "Eventually we managed to get the four of us into one room, that was it. It just exploded... I think everyone was inspired in that band. I think everyone was a star. There wasn't a weakness there. Every single person was strong."
Led Zeppelin I,II,III / InTheStudio interview program is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/led-zeppelin-i-ii-iii-deluxe-editions-jimmy-page-robert-plant-john-paul-jones.
MITCH LAFON TALKS TO GILBY CLARKE:
In episode 18 of One On One With Mitch Lafon: In part one, Mitch talks to former GUNS N' ROSES guitarist, Gilby Clarke. The two discuss Gilby's upcoming summer tour dates with Quiet Riot, the re-recording of his cult classic hit Tijuana Jail, his time in Guns N' Roses, Rockstar Supernova, Jason Newsted and the infamous 1992 Metallica/ Guns N' Roses post-show Montreal Riot.
In Part 2, Mitch chats with former Axl Rose personal assistant, Craig Duswalt, who talks about his "Welcome to My Jungle: An Unauthorized Account of How a Regular Guy Like Me Survived Years of Touring with Guns N' Roses, Pet Wallabies, Crazed Groupies, ... One of the Greatest Rock Bands of All Time" book, his duties as Axl's personal assiatant, various tales of Axl and his take on the the infamous 1992 Metallica/ Guns N' Roses post-show Montreal Riot.
The episode of One On One With Mitch Lafon was co-hosted by former Guns 'N Roses & Great White manager, Alan Niven (who adds great colour and commentary).
For more about Gilby Clarke visit: www.gilbyclarke.com. For more about Craig Duswalt visit: www.craigduswalt.com.
WebLink: www.spreaker.com/user/talkingmetal/one-on-one-with-mitch-lafon-episode-18.
SHOWCSE UPDATED:
A new Showcase for the upcoming AOR release LA Connection has been added to check out - LA Connection.
Tuesday, June 03, 2014
TERRAPLANE DEBUT ALBUM REISSUE CELEBRATED WITH RARE DOUBLE SINGLE RELEASE: Hear No Evil Recordings/Cherry Red are celebrating their upcoming expanded edition reissue of Terraplane's debut 1985 album Black And White with the release of a rare double digital single: I Survive / Gimme The Money (City Records Version) on June 9.
More widely known as inimitable British hard rock heroes Thunder, Danny Bowes (vocals), Luke Morley (guitar) and Harry James (drums) formed the more pop-orientated Terraplane in the early 80s, releasing their debut single 'I Survive' in 1983. Building up a loyal following in London, and with support from Kerrang! magazine, they eventually found major label recognition when they signed to Epic Records, releasing "Black And White", their debut, in 1985.
'I'm The One' features none other than Jools Holland on organ, and 'Couldn't Handle The Tears' has guest vocals from Ruby Turner. After 1987's "Moving Target" LP, Terraplane split up, with its principle members forming the harder rocking Thunder, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Thunder split in 2009, playing live only occasionally since then, but has recently decided to start work on a new album. The band will be on the bill with Aerosmith at the Calling Festival at Clapham Common on June 28.
Black And White: Expanded Edition is due for release June 16, remastered with eight bonus tracks and 16-page colour booklet including rare memorabilia and extensive liner notes by Malcolm Dome, and featuring interviews with Luke Morley and Danny Bowes.
Terraplane - Back And White: Expanded Edition Track Listing: 1. Don't Walk Away 2. When You're Hot 3. I Can't Live Without Your Love 4. Talking To Myself 5. You Can't Hurt Me Anymore 6. I Survive 7. Right Between The Eyes 8. Black And White 9. I'm The One 10. Get Your Face Out Of My Dream 11. Couldn't Handle The Tears.
Bonus Tracks: 12. Beginning Of The End 13. Let The Wheels Go Round 14. Get Your Face Out Of My Dream (Demo Version - Previously Unreleased) 15. All Night And Day (Live) 16. Tough Kind Of Life 17. I Survive (City Records version) 18. Gimme The Money (City Records version).
WebLinks: www.cherryred.co.uk / www.hearnoevilrecordings.com.
ANOTHER PLUG FOR THE MARK SLAUGHTER SINGLE:
Nashville, TN. - This Spring Mark Slaughter released a new single, Never Givin' Up, his first ever solo track outside of his multi-platinum band Slaughter, to rave reviews on radio stations across the country. And with legendary music producer Michael Wagener Mixing and Mastering it, Mark played all instruments on the track with the only exception being drums that were tackled by Mark Goodin.
Picking up traction on the charts, the tune salutes the military and all who have served, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Red Circle Foundation that assists families of the US Special Operations Forces. It's available at Amazon, iTunes, and Google.
Mark Slaughter - The band Slaughter sold more than five million records worldwide, with numerous Top 30 hits on the Billboard Charts with tunes such as "Fly To the Angels" and "Up All Night." The band hit the road playing to stadiums and arenas, touring the world with bands such as KISS, Poison, and Ozzy Osbourne, and more.
This Spring Mark released a new single, "Never Givin' Up," his first ever solo track, to rave reviews on radio stations across the country. And with legendary music producer Michael Wagener Mixing and Mastering it, Mark played all instruments on the track with the only exception being drums that were tackled by Mark Goodin.
The tune salutes the military and all who have served, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Red Circle Foundation that assists families of the US Special Operations Forces.
Before the formation of his own group Slaughter, he fronted a local band Xcursion before joining the Vinnie Vincent Invasion in 1987, with a huge hit song "Love Kills" that appeared on the Nightmare Before Elm Street 4 movie soundtrack in 1988. After that band disbanded in the late 1980s, two of its members, Dana Strum along with Mark, formed the group Slaughter.
Mark was born in Las Vegas, Nevada on the 4th of July, and now makes his home in Nashville. He has worked as a voice-over actor and composes music for television, movies and sports outlets, with credits including music compositions for Fox Sports, along with voice over ventures in productions like Batman Beyond, Bloodsport, and Animaniacs.
Slaughter formed a new band, Scrap Metal, which consists of other platinum-selling singers such as Gunnar Nelson (Nelson), Kelly Keagy (Night Ranger) and Eric Martin (Mr. Big).
In addition to the Red Circle Foundation, Slaughter actively participates in charity work including with St. Jude's hospital.
UNBREAKABLE'S NEWEST MELODIC METAL TRIUMPH, 'KNOCKOUT,' NOW AVAILABLE!:
The latest release from German rockers Unbreakable, Knockout, is now available for purchase as a very special "pre-release" version, which comes with a custom bottle opener key chain.
While the rest of the world will have to wait to acquire the album (July 29th in the US and August 18th in Europe and the rest of the world), fans can purchase the pre-release version right now, exclusively from Dark Star Records: www.DarkEntityMusic.com.
You can also stream the first single Rock the Nightlife, here: soundcloud.com/darkstarrecords/rock-the-nightlife.
The band - which is comprised of Al Crespo (vocals), Martin Ries (guitar), Pascal Alles (guitar), Lukas Mittler (bass), and Alexander Ries (drums) - couldn't have picked a better/knowledgeable producer, who certainly knows a thing or two about classic '80s metal himself…former Scorpions drummer Herman Rarebell. "It was a real pleasure to work with Unbreakable," says Rarebell. "They could be the next Scorpions! That is what I think and feel - I had a lot of fun producing them. America…get ready for Unbreakable!"
Once the album drops, Unbreakable plan to hit the road hard, showing the world that they can rock and party with the best. "You can expect a high energy rock show and hard power chord guitar riffs with melodic solos, a high metallic voice and driving drum rock beats. We feel like home wherever the stage is!"
For more info, visit: www.unbreakable-music.com / www.facebook.com/UNBREAKABLE.Music.
WIN A TRIP TO MRF4:
The Win A Trip To MRF4 Draw will take place this week. Scheduling for this year's video MC Eric Ragno (and friends?) is just holding it up a day or so...
Stay tuned!!!
Monday, June 02, 2014
MelodicRock Records is very excited to announce the signing of Spanish melodic rock group Secret for the worldwide release of their debut album The End Of The World on July 18.
Secret is a new Melodic Rock project born in Murcia (Spain) in 2012. The line-up comprises of vocalist Jesus Espin (ex-91 Suite)(vocals and backing vocals) and guitarist Ivan Gonzalez (also ex-91 Suite)(guitars, bass, drums and keyboards).
After a period of musical inactivity, and given the friendship between them, the pair decided to once again join forces with the idea of just to have "a good time making music they like". From there the pair wrote a number of new songs and the idea formed to complete an album. Finally, the project is realized under the name of Secret and the album titled The End Of The Road.
The pair had this to say about the debut album and their new deal: "We are pleased to announce the signing of a contract with MRR (MelodicRock Records) for the release of our first album called The End Of The Road. The album is a mixture of all of the influences that we had through all these years of listening to music. You will find classic hard rock, AOR, country, soul... It's been a long and hard road to walk through but we are really proud of it. And we would love to know what you think of it too. See you soon!"
The track listing for The End Of The Road is: Give Up The Fight, Here With Me, Since I Fell For You, Just To Hear You Say, Bring You Down, Out Of My Life, Wherever You Go, Trust Someone, Piece Of Mind, When You Really Love Someone, Angeline, I Believe In Love.
xx
You can check the band out online at: www.facebook.com/SecretMelodicRockBand. You'll get to hear more from within this great AOR album soon. Meanwhile, you can check out the full track Since I Fell For You right now:
HOUSE OF LORDS "PRECIOUS METAL": House of Lords "Precious Metal" is taken from the brand new studio album "Precious Metal" out on Frontiers Records. Buy the album on Amazon www.smarturl.it/holpmetalamaz or iTunes: www.smarturl.it/holpmetalitunes - Available NOW!
NEW TRACK AND VIDEO FROM PARK SIPES:
Vocalist and Multi-Instrumentalist Park Sipes has released a lyric video for a new track from his upcoming solo album. The song is called "Anytime, Anyway" and according to Sipes, the song "is about always taking the opportunity to do the right thing." While Sipes handles lead vocals, rhythm guitar, bass and keyboards, Joel Hoekstra (Night Ranger, Trans-Siberian Orchestra) is on lead guitar and on Mike Atkins is on drums. This is his follow-up to his 2012 single, "Caught in Your Storm"ť Both tracks will be on his solo album due Summer 2014. Sipes previously was also featured on the 2012 "Tune In To MIND Radio: A Tribute to Vocalist Kelly Keeling"ť, performing on two songs.
For more info on Park Sipes: www.parksipes.com / Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwZW1ATWVc4
Friday, May 30, 2014
URIAH HEEP "OUTSIDER" ELECTRONIC PRESS KIT: Uriah Heep's new album Outsider - Order NOW on Amazon: www.smarturl.it/heepoutsideramazon / On iTunes: smarturl.it/uheepoutsiderit.
Buy "One Minute" on iTunes: smarturl.it/HeepOneMinute. Uriah Heep, one of the pivotal hard rock groups to emerge from England in the late 1960s returns with "Outsider", its 24th studio album, and the first since 2011's critically acclaimed Into the Wild album. "Outsider" will be released on June 6th in Europe, June 9th in the UK and June 10th in North America on Frontiers Records.
TANGO DOWN READY TO CHARM FANS THIS AUGUST: Tango Down helped blow the doors off last year's MRF3 Festival performing songs from their (Kivel) Release, Identity Crisis. The band knocked it up a notch with their strongest album and material to date, which was welcomed with like-minded reviews and praise last year.
So with the bar set so high and being raised with each release, what can one do? How can you expect to reach the next level? Scott Miller had this to say: "Well we raised the bar with each release. When it was time to do Identity Crisis, we pulled out the pole vault and went right over the bar. With our new album, the bar has been set even higher. So this time we strapped on our jet packs and are heading even higher this time!! If you enjoyed what we've done so far, than you are going to LOVE what we got coming next!!"
Of course both band and label have always prided themselves with their visual aspect, being just as important as the band's music and production. Again with the assist of renowned photographer, Kent Miller Studios, the band put on their best dressed for the photo shoot and cover, once again raising the bar. So here is a peak at the band's latest album artwork offering. Which was designed by the wonderful and talented Brooke J. McKaig/Vamp Visuals!
Tango Down "Charming Devil" is coming people, and he is the serpent that you can't resist . Expect to hear some new musical offerings in the bands set. Just for YOU!
Pre order NOW at www.kivelrecords.com.
JORN LANDE FEATURED IN ONE OF THE WORLD'S LEADING GAMES "LEAGUE OF LEGENDS":
Norwegian Rock Icon, Jorn Lande appears as lead vocalist on the song "Lightbringer", launched on May 27th by Riot Games, Inc.
Jorn comments: "I have been working closely with music producer Christian Linke of Riot Games in LA, on a project called "Pentakill", which is basically a heavy rock band within the League of Legends concept. "Pentakill" is the Valoran continents' most famous (and possibly only) rock band. Its members consist of champions from the game. It's very exciting to be a part of this new development in the gaming industry and a fabulous opportunity to be able to reach out to millions of people worldwide in just a blink of an eye. It has been a great experience working with the productive and dedicated people of Riot Games, and I am truly proud to be a part of this!"
Hear the song now via YouTube: youtu.be/oUiOylPbfV0.
The music video is also showcased on Pentakill's website - pentakillmusic.com - which is owned and operated by Riot Games, Inc.
THE LATEST FROM ROCK CANDY RECORDS:
The following five new Rock Candy titles are available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price including postage to anywhere in the world for the next two weeks ending on June 15.
Krokus 'Metal Rendez-Vous' CANDY247 / "You can count the amount of internationally successful European hard rock bands on one hand; Swiss based Krokus are one of only a few acts that can be included on that list. With roots reaching back to 1975, the band spent several years experimenting with various line-up changes and recording three albums, before settling on a unique style that came fully into focus with the appointment of Maltese born frontman Marc Storace, formerly of Swiss heavy progressive rockers Tea. It was this formation that signed to German record label Ariola and cut 'Metal Rendez-vous', an invigorating example of explosive four-to-the floor hard rock, big on hooks and jam-packed with hell raising riffs. Chief amongst their selling points was Storace's signature voice and his ability to punch home some incredibly well constructed songs. In addition, guitarists Tommy Kiefer and Fernando von Arb were no slouches either, peeling out a series of ripping solos and laying down tough as nails musical support in a manner befitting the times. Originally issued in 1980 and co-produced with the band in Switzerland by English producer Martin Pearson, the album contains a number of classic Krokus tracks including 'Heatstrokes', 'Bedside Radio', 'Streamer' and 'Tokyo Nights', some of which still remain in the band's live set to this very day."
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 16 page full colour booklet, new interviews, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Heatstrokes 2. Bedside Radio 3. Come On 4. Streamer 5. Shy Kid 6. Tokyo Nights 7. Lady Double Dealer 8. Fire 9. No Way 10. Back-Seat Rock 'N' Roll.
Krokus 'Hardware' CANDY248 / "It's fair to say that the Swiss music scene hadn't exactly set the world on fire but with Krokus that situation was rapidly reversed. The band's fourth album 'Metal Rendez-vous' became a surprise success, not only in their home country (sales rocketing to three times Platinum) but also globally where they secured a strong foothold in the charts and on the live front. The band's no-nonsense brand of tough-guy hard rock found favour in a market that was wide open for that revolution. 'Hardware', therefore, was released into the arms of an eager fan base feeding off the energy of their previous album and it didn't disappoint them. Issued in 1981, the record picks up where the band left off, laying down some serious riffage on songs that display a cheeky lyrical charm; an unexpected side-effect of their Swiss/Maltese heritage. Engineered by British studio master Mark Dearnley (AC/DC, Def Leppard) and recorded in London, the album makes full use of their powerful armoury, led by the ripping two guitar attack of Fernando von Arb and Tommy Keefer. Heavy but memorable, the album contains a superb selection of tracks, including the in-concert favourites 'Easy Rocker', 'Mr 69', 'Smelly Nellie' and 'Mad Racket', songs blessed with a swish and swagger that made it clear the Scorpions weren't the only band in Europe with big potential."
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 16 page full colour booklet, new interviews, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Celebration 2. Easy Rocker 3. Smelly Nelly 4. Mr. 69 5. She's Got Everything 6. Burning Bones 7. Rock City 8. Winning Man 9. Mad Racket.
Krokus 'One Vice At A Time' CANDY249 / "There comes a tipping point in every artist's career where years of hard work and paying dues suddenly turn into an avalanche of praise and success. Krokus reached this point with the release of 'One Vice At A Time, a supremely crafted album, boasting a clutch of tracks that elevated their appeal far beyond anything previously conceived or, indeed, achieved. Co-produced in London by former AC/DC engineer Tony Platt and issued in 1982, the band made a concerted effort to refine their sound and ambition by bringing their trade mark style fully into focus. Sure, certain accusations that that their riff hungry approach was uncomfortably similar to that of AC/DC had been bandied about but their distinctively European charm and quirky lyrical approach helped to ameliorate such criticism. Jam packed with a number of raucous tracks such as 'Bad Boys Rag Dolls', 'To The Top', 'American Woman' (a cover of the Guess Who classic) and perhaps their best known song 'Long Stick Goes Boom', there is room enough for the band to drill down deep yet retain a sense of composure befitting a band safe in the knowledge that they were about to reap the rewards of years of hard work. Look out for an appearance by Iron Maiden vocalist Bruce Dickinson, who provides backing vocals on the track 'I'm On The Run'."
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, co-produced by Tony Platt (AC/DC),16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, new interviews, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Long Stick Goes Boom 2. Bad Boys Rag Dolls 3. Playin' The Outlaw 4. To The Top 5. Down The Drain 6. American Woman 7. I'm On The Run 8. Save Me 9. Rock 'N' Roll.
xxxx
Vandenberg 'alibi' CANDY229 / "Adrian Vandenberg has been, quite rightly, hailed as one of the world's best rock guitar players, carving out a first class reputation for himself since the early 1970s. His band Vandenberg, formed in Holland in 1981, became one of the surprise attractions during the early eighties, storming the US charts and stylistically rivalling the cream of hard rock contenders such as Ratt, Dokken and Def Leppard. With the right looks and hooks it appeared that they could have gone on to bigger and even better things. Sadly, however, it was not to be. 'Alibi' was their third and final album. Recorded back in Holland, and issued in 1985, the record showcased all that was good about the band, with its powerful riffs, melodic hooks and well-crafted arrangements. Once Again, it was Adrian who stole the show, writing all the songs, designing the artwork and providing a remarkable selection of guitar solos, contributions that would not go unnoticed amongst his contemporaries. Indeed, once Adrian had disbanded the band, David Coverdale approached him to join Whitesnake for their hugely successful '1987' album.
Produced by former Golden Earring drummer Jaap Eggermont, 'Alibi', despite its relative commercial failure, still holds firm as a record that combines all the great elements of Vandenberg's all too brief day in the sun, leaving behind a vapour trail that still impresses to this day."
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, produced by Jaap Eggermont (Golden Earring),12 page full colour booklet, 3,000 word essay, new interview, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. All The Way 2. Pedal To The Metal 3. Once In A Lifetime 4. Voodoo 5. Dressed To Kill 6. Fighting Against The World 7. How Long 8. Prelude Mortale 9. Alibi 10. Kamikaze.
Fortress 'Hands In The Till' CANDY241 / "The music business is littered with sob stories. Those that shoulda', coulda', woulda' made it if matters hadn't conspired against them. It's a familiar tale of woe alright and one that we've heard a million times before yet the strangest thing is some of the world's greatest recordings have been cruelly thrown to the kerb by a simple twist of fate. Step forward Fortress, an act that really ought to have made a much bigger splash than they did. Although the band came and went in the wink of an eye, they're members had actually been active for a number of years, even rubbing musical shoulders with several prestigious outfits during the 70's, including Tom Petty's Mudcrutch and cult hard rock act White Witch. The big break came with the formation of Fortress yet, sadly, through no fault of their own, success failed to materialise. Based in Los Angeles, the band attracted the ears of Freddie Piro a producer who had already made a big splash recording the progressive rock band Ambrosia. Piro's Fortress demos attracted the attention of Atlantic Records who promptly signed them, resulting in 'Hands In The Till', one of the most impressive heavy and melodic rock albums of the early 80s, attracting eager comparisons to the likes of Journey, Roadmaster, Foreigner and Boston. Sadly, like many other stunning examples, changes in the hierarchy at their label put paid to their dreams."
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, classic underground AOR,12 page full colour booklet, 3,000 word essay, new interview, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Hands In The Till 2. How Do I Exist 3. Comin' After You 4. Requiem 5. Kisses 6. Let's Do It Again 7. Breakin' Free 8. Carry Me Back 9. Back On The Path 10. Mystery.
xx
ONE ON ONE WITH MITCH LAFON - NIGHT RANGER'S KELLY KEAGY:
In episode 17 of One On One With Mitch Lafon: In part one, Mitch sits down with Night Ranger's Kelly Keagy to discuss the band's new album High Road, the band's upcoming touring plans, being part of the Kiss Kruise, the sometimes under-appreciated Feeding Off The Mojo album that included Gary Moon on vocals, the importance of Jack Blades to the band and much more.
In Part 2, Mitch chats with Lillian Axe's Steve Blaze. Topics discussed include the band's new triple disc set One Night In The Temple, the Louisiana Rock Hall Of Fame, the importance of a brand name, getting to work on the new 'electric' Lillian Axe album, working with Ratt's Robbin Crosby and much more.
This episode of One On One With Mitch Lafon was co-hosted by Andrew McNeice of www.melodicrock.com - Andrew talks about his love for Night Ranger, working the new Lillian Axe album, the launch of the NEW melodicrock.com and Melodic Rock Records including how to submit an artist's demo for consideration.
For more about Night Ranger visit: www.nightranger.com.
For more about Lillian Axe visit: www.lillianaxe.com
BRET MICHAELS' MEDICAL EMERGENCY:
From: www.facebook.com/BretMichaels - "Breaking News: Message From Pete Evick Regarding Bret Michaels' Medical Emergency.
This is a message I never imagined I'd have to post. Tonight in Manchester, NH 3 songs into the set Bret had me sing a song as he rushed off stage. In the 9 years I've stood next to him, I've never seen a look like the one on his face as if I was a complete stranger. One of the crew returned instantly to notify me that Bret's blood sugar was extremely low.
He returned to the stage only to announce that he could not continue. As you all know he is a health fanatic and fiercely monitors his blood sugar, he basically had to be dragged off the stage in his sickest of conditions. When I rushed to the bus he could barely speak, but begged me to apologize to the fans and seemed only concerned for them.
As of now he is with paramedics being evaluated. We will keep you posted throughout the evening. ~ Pete Evick"
RUBICON CROSS HITS THE CHARTS WITH SELF-TITLED DEBUT:
There is an unmistakable buzz surrounding the hard-hitting self-titled debut from Rubicon Cross. And now, the chart numbers are backing up the buzz, as it has been announced that the album has debuted at #23 on the Heatseeker Chart, #42 on the Hard Music Albums Chart, and #123 on the Independent Albums Chart. Additionally, the album hit the Top 40 at Best Buy, where the album's deluxe edition (which comes with a poster and bonus tracks) is available for purchase: www.bestbuy.com/site/rubicon-cross-deluxe-only--best-buy-with-bonus-tracks-poster-cd.
Comprised of CJ Snare/vocals, Chris Green/lead guitars, Jeff Lerman/second guitar, Simon Farmery/bass, and Robert Behnke/drums, the lush melodic core of Rubicon Cross' songwriting is given a forceful, aggressive boost on this record.
From the first single, "Bleed With Me" that starts just as propulsive as it ends to "Kill Or Be Killed" that has a relentless metal drive, Rubicon Cross is a collection of contemporary heavy music that sits just as comfortably next to hard rock classics as it does modern rock upstarts. "Locked and Loaded" is featured in the Xbox360 and PS3 game "Dirt Showdown" alongside of new rock heavy-hitters Rise Against, Rival Sons and The Parlor Mob.
Check out the video for "Bleed With Me" here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFneEfoJbn8&feature=youtu.be. Check out the "Bleed With Me" song here: soundcloud.com/rubicon-cross-official/bleed-with-me/s-b4fB0.
Album Track List: Locked And Loaded, Next Worse Enemy, Bleed With Me, Save Me Within, You Will Remember Me, Moving On, R U Angry, Shine, Kill Or Be Killed, All The Little Things.
For more info, visit: rubiconcross.net / facebook.com/rubiconcrossband.
MRX UPDATED:
2 new Feature Albums online today to check out:
- Jon Butcher - Pictures From The Front (1989)
- Biloxi - Let The Games Begin Join MRX now.
Thursday, May 29, 2014
NIGHT RANGER: "HIGH ROAD" LIMITED 12" VINYL EDITION ANNOUNCED: Inner Wound Recordings are proud to announce the release of a limited 12" vinyl edition of the Night Ranger album "High Road". A deal was inked with Frontiers Records, and the release dates are set to July 18th for Europe and August 5th for North America. The edition is strictly limited to 500 copies worldwide and includes an insert with lyrics.
"High Road" LP is available for pre-ordering at the Inner Wound Store: www.innerwound.bigcartel.com.
Track listing; Side A 01. High Road 02. Knock Knock Never Stop 03. Rollin' On 04. Don't Live Here Anymore 05. I'm Coming Home / Side B 01. X Generation 02. Only For You Only 03. Hang On 04. St Bartholomew 05. Brothers.
For more information: www.innerwound.com.
RARE NEW BILLY SQUIER INTERVIEW:
Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine did an exclusive interview with Billy Squier regarding the re-release of his last rock record "Tell The Truth". Here's an excerpt where Billy Squier lets us know what exactly happened back in 1993:
Rockpages.gr: The album starts with the "in your face" track "Angry". Did it reflect your feelings toward the music industry – I mean both musically and lyrically- after the lack of success of "Hear and Now" and "Creatures of Habit"? Billy Squier: (laughs) Unlike some of my other songs I wouldn't say that I was directing to that side of the industry with this song. It's interesting that you pose that question because I can see why you are thinking that. The best thing about music is that the listener wants or tries to interpret the song the way he wants to. Some songs are so direct that leave a little for the imagination but getting back to "Angry", you have interpreted the song in a way that I probably didn't intend it to be but could easily have been (laughs)! I mean, if "Angry" had been on another record after "Tell The Truth" and that record started with this song then you would have been completely right. Because the record company didn't do anything to promote the record and actually made me quit the music business with all that happening after the recording of "Tell The Truth". When I did "Tell The Truth", I was going through my fourth or fifth label president at Capitol Records. The guy who came in while I was making the album was previously at Geffen and he was somehow involved in the whole grunge movement.
Well, this guy decided that he knew more about music than I did. He had an idea of what he was gonna do at Capitol Records and he decided that he was not gonna promote Billy Squier. I really don't know why he decided that but I can tell you this: when I finished "Tell The Truth" and gave it to Capitol, he called me up…it was spring of 1993…he called me up at my home and he said: "Billy, I wanna tell you something. This is the best record that's coming out from our label for at least the next six months". And…Sakis, that's the good part…he said: "….and I am gonna make sure that nobody hears it"! He said that…he said: "I'm gonna bury your record"! And I said to him: "what are you talking about"? He wouldn't give me a straight answer…nothing! The next thing I did was to call my lawyer and ask him to get me out of this horrible situation. It was such an incredible…I don't know if "shock" is the right word…but it had such a huge impact on me that I immediately said: "fuck that…I'm done"! If someone could do such a thing to me, I don't want to be involved anymore in this business.
You know…it hurt so much because he told me that the record so good…well, I knew that I had done my best on "Tell The Truth". When I made "Don't Say No", I felt and I believed that this was the record I had been working all my life to make. I felt and trust me I am not making this up…I felt that this is the best that I could do. If "Don't Say No" is not accepted, I am done. That was my exact thought back in 1981. I was sure I couldn't have done a better record than "Don't Say No". And of course, the record was a big hit. When I made "Tell The Truth", I felt the same way. I was so proud of that record…I remember Mike Chapman telling me: "Billy, you are the best songwriter, I've ever come across in my life"! Coming from someone like Mike, it meant a lot to me. So, after all this hard work, there comes this guy telling me: "I'm gonna take your best work and bury it"… there wasn't much that I could…I left; I walked…you know, I haven't listened to "Tell The Truth" for a few years and quite recently I put it on and the record blew me away! In fact, I was listening to "Revolver" (ed. note: The Beatles album)…some people think that it's the best record of all time…so, I was listening to "Revolver" and for some reason after that, I put on "Tell The Truth" and I felt like those two records are completely in good company together. I think that "Tell The Truth" is one of the best rock records ever made by me or anyone! I really do…I think it's that good.
I can put on "Revolver" or Led Zeppelin's "II" and then "Tell The Truth" and there is no quality gap. The label's decision not to push the record, changed my life…it was definitely something that I didn't anticipate. I didn't pick up for a couple of years after that. I was so disillusioned by the whole thing that I never really wanted to come back to the industry. And I haven't done anything really…apart from an acoustic album (ed.note: "Happy Blue") which came along fine because I wanted to do something different; something challenging as a songwriter. For better or for worse, here I am. My life is good. I am not anywhere nearly involved with music as I used to be. But, I have mixed feelings about it because I love to play. Fortunately I got some chances to do it…Ringo (Starr) was good to me for a few years. Sometimes I feel that I would like to play more but at the same time I don't want to be a part of this music industry, you know? I feel that music is not as important anymore as it used to be for a lot of people. What counts nowadays is…I don't know…twitter accounts. So, I don't really miss what's going on.
Read The Full Interview Here: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=10506&type=1&lang=EN.
LUKATHER TALKS MORE TOTO:
Two new Steve Lukather / Toto interviews to check out today -
UNBREAKABLE DELIVER 'KNOCKOUT' MELODIC METAL SOUNDS ON NEW ALBUM:
With interest in vintage '80s metal sounds at seemingly an all-time high in the U.S., German rockers Unbreakable have picked the perfect time to unleash their new album, Knockout. Having recently signed a record deal with the hard rock and metal label Dark Star Records (based in Chicago), the label works in association with Sony Music Entertainment, which will undoubtedly help introduce Unbreakable to U.S. rock fans and beyond. 'Unbreakable' will be released in America on July 29, 2014.
And the band - which is comprised of Al Crespo (vocals), Martin Ries (guitar), Pascal Alles (guitar), Lukas Mittler (bass), and Alexander Ries (drums) - couldn't have picked a better/knowledgeable producer, who certainly knows a thing or two about classic '80s metal himself…former Scorpions drummer Herman Rarebell. "It was a real pleasure to work with Unbreakable," says Rarebell. "They could be the next SCORPIONS! That is what I think and feel - I had a lot of fun producing them. America…get ready for Unbreakable!"
After finishing the album the guys are extremely pleased with the end result. "We love all the songs! Each song has its own and special story. The lyrics are real life stories. They are real and no fantasy stories. Our crazy Rock n' Roll tale! Our lead-off single, 'Rock the Nightlife,' will give you a little taste of what living on the road feels like!" And it is this very song that will soon receive the "music video treatment," and will feature Rarebell as a special guest.
Once the album drops, Unbreakable plan to hit the road hard, showing the world that they can rock and party with the best. "You can expect a high energy rock show and hard power chord guitar riffs with melodic solos, a high metallic voice and driving drum rock beats. We feel like home wherever the stage is!"
Soon, the U.S. will discover the power of Unbreakable. For more info, visit: www.unbreakable-music.com / www.facebook.com/UNBREAKABLE.Music.
VALERIE RELEASE THE FIRST SINGLE FROM THEIR UPCOMING SECOND ALBUM:
Norwegian rockers Valerie have just released the first single "Night After Night" from their sophomore album. The single, which very much like their critically acclaimed debut, features big guitars, catchy hooks and that 80s rock feeling. The album is set to be released in 2014. The single is available worldwide through iTunes, Spotify and Amazon among others. www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9atHKZ6m6I.
Valerie s/t debut album was both a fan and critics' favorite for its youthful energy, "possessed by the same pop-metal spirit that defined the burgeoning Sunset Strip scene back in the 80s"ť (Mark Allen, Hard Rock Haven) Sleaze Roxx' Mark Redmayne called the album "an arresting set of tracks that'll stalk you from day one", scoring 8.5/10 Rock Garage Magazine, 7/10 Roxx Zone, and was featured in Classic Rock Magazine in 2013.
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/valerieband / www.valerie.no.
S.E.X. DEPARTMENT REPORT:
Press Release: "We are happy to present our last double album as S.E.X. Department. Recorded at House of Metal, Caorle, Italy by Sandro Vazzoler. Mixed and mastered by Illka Wirtanen, Kaiku Entertainment, Finland.
English album Rock'n'roll SS: 1) Break Down 2) Night Of Demons 3) Rock'n'roll SS 4) No More Beer 5) Hollywood Nightmare 6) Tokyo Death Party 7) Nunaj Nina Nena 8) Baltic Night 9) S.E.X. Department.
Italian album: 1) Eutanazia 2) Slava 3) Venezia 4) Volare 5) A Natale Puoi 6) L'italiano 7) S.E.X. Department.
In worldwide distribution and on iTunes, Napster and Amazon right now!
Cpt Marco Mendess about new album: "Talkin' about Love, talkin' about Violence, talkin' about the Dark Side of the Music. In a World conducted by mind control, plastic surgery and mandatory pornography, here we are, ready to kick your ass! We are the Rock N Roll SS! … see you around!"
Cpt Mendess will be back with his new project Cpt. Mendess & Rock'n'roll Army. First presentation on Masters Of Rock 2014 festival - Main stage - Sunday 13th July 2014.
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
SLASH FEATURING MYLES KENNEDY AND THE CONSPIRATORS ANNOUNCE 'WORLD ON FIRE': Slash and his bandmates Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators will release their new album World On Fire on September 16 via Slash's own label Dik Hayd International distributed through Caroline. The group revealed the cover artwork for World On Fire designed by American contemporary artist Ron English today. Featuring the blazing title track as the first singlearriving at radio Friday, June 13ththe disc marks Slash's third solo album and second one with his band featuring Myles Kennedy (vocals), Brent Fitz (drums) and Todd Kerns (bass). **See a Q&A with Slash And Myles Kennedy below.
For World On Fire, Slash and his band tapped Michael "Elvis" Baskette (Alter Bridge, Falling In Reverse, Incubus) to produce. Among the 17 songs is an instrumental--a powerful new turn for the band. World On Fire is the follow-up to 2012's Apocalyptic Love which debuted at #4 on the Billboard Top 200 chart and earned SLASH two No. 1 U.S. rock radio hits--his first-ever solo--with "You're A Lie" and "Standing In The Sun." SLASH officially began recording as a solo artist with his self-titled 2010 debut album which employed a different vocalist on each track of his first album including Ozzy Osbourne, Fergie and Myles Kennedy among others.
Following are song titles for World On Fire: "World on Fire" "Shadow Life" "Automatic Overdrive" "Wicked Stone" "30 Years to Life" "Bent to Fly" "Stone Blind" "Too Far Gone" "Beneath the Savage Sun" "Withered Delilah" "Battleground" "Dirty Girl" "Iris of the Storm" "Avalon" "The Dissident" "Safari Inn" "The Unholy".
SLASH and Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators have announced additional solo dates in between their summer tour with Aerosmith. The group will preview new songs for fans on the trek which kicks off Thursday, July 10 at Nikon at Jones Beach Theatre in Wantagh, NY (see the full itinerary below). Special ticket packages include: amazing seats (Level 1 tickets), an exclusive autographed SLASH lithograph, a Digital Download of the new SLASH album WORLD ON FIRE and a merchandise voucher worth $50, redeemable in the SLASH Exclusive Online Store. For all packages, visit: slashonline.com/tour.
Check out the exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary SLASH's "Real To Reel" at: www.slashonline.com. The innovative online series documented the entire in-studio recording process from the first day of recording to the last; the multi-segment fly-on-the wall series follows Slash and The Conspirators from pre-production at NRG Studios in Los Angeles to Studio Barbarossa in Florida, as they write, play, create and record WORLD ON FIRE from start to finish.
SLASH and MYLES KENNEDY talk about the album and the forthcoming tour dates in this Q&A:
WORLD ON FIRE marks your second album with your band MYLES KENNEDY (vocals), BRENT FITZ (drums) and TODD KERNS (bass). How do you feel the dynamic between the four of you has evolved?
SLASH: We had a natural chemistry from the very beginning. The longer we have been together the more it has blossomed. And because of all the touring and the different situations we have been thrown into as a band and as players, we have all subconsciously learned from that. It shows up when we're writing and when we're recording. It's sort of an unsaid thing, but I can sense it. It's a natural evolution for a bunch of musicians in a band together.
MYLES: Over the last four years we have definitely evolved into a band. Utilizing Todd's vocal prowess and Brent's ability as a multi-instrumentalist definitely highlights what the Conspirators are capable of. I feel like it adds to what Slash and I do as songwriters. Not to mention they are both a big part of the arrangement process. Todd even brought in a cool progression that we used for the verses in "Shadow Life" and he added an great intro to "The Dissident" which is really fun.
What are the biggest differences between the last album Apocalyptic Love and the new album WORLD ON FIRE?
SLASH: The biggest difference is that the band has also has naturally evolved with so much touring and all of these different things. There's a difference in musicianship that shows on this record and the songwriting skills especially.
The other difference is the fact that we recorded both albums live, but we kept the first one (Apocalyptic Love) just live. That was it. There was no over-dubs or layering or any kind of studio techniques. With WORLD ON FIRE I wanted to do guitar harmonies and double up parts and just create sounds. It's a little more produced record in that sense.
MYLES: We didn't spend as much time fine-tuning arrangements as a unit during the Apocalyptic sessions. I think that's part of the reason this record sounds as cohesive as it does. Slash spent a lot of time with Todd and Brent working on arrangements while I was on tour with Alter Bridge late last year. When I got off the road, I met up with them in LA so they could get a feel for how the songs felt with vocals.
Another difference is that Slash played all the guitars on WORLD ON FIRE. During the Apocalyptic sessions I sang and played guitar which was fun, but it definitely cut into the amount of time I had to focus on lyrics, etc. Not playing guitar on WORLD ON FIRE gave me additional time to fine-tune lyrics and melodies which improved the songs in the end. I'm very happy with how it turned out.
For WORLD ON FIRE you teamed up with producer Michael "Elvis" Baskette (Alter Bridge, Falling In Reverse, Incubus). What do you feel he brought to the table?
SLASH: Elvis is very conscious about guitar and guitar tones as well as drums, bass and vocals. For me, it is important to work with somebody who is very dialed-into guitar sounds. In this particular day and age it's a rarity to find someone who really understands guitar sounds. Elvis is an extremely hard-worker. I consider myself a hard worker as well as Myles. He was somebody that, over the course of making the record, gave me an even more of an extra push in some moments. So he brought out the best in me as well as Myles and the drums and everything. He was a pleasure to work with.
MYLES: Elvis is brilliant. It's the fifth record I have had the pleasure of recording with him. His ability to get the best out of a rock band is pretty special. He always seems to be aware of what the fans want to hear from an artist. He did a great job documenting Slash's tone and sound. I remember the first time I heard the solo for "Battleground"--I was blown away. Elvis captured the sonic hallmarks that made Slash's playing resonate with me 25 years ago. Elvis is hands-on with every element of the recording process. From the arrangements to the final mix, he is relentless at making sure that the record is everything it should be and more.
Did you guys experiment with any new sounds with the production?
SLASH: Yes and no. The whole record sounds new compared to the last album. Yes we did do a lot of tonal and EQ and guitars. I can't say we were looking to break ground with new technology, because we did this to tape. But from a tonal and equalization point of view, we definitely broke a lot of new ground.
MYLES: That would be a question for Elvis or Slash. I can definitely hear some new approaches that I haven't heard on the last two records.
NIGHT BY NIGHT DEBUT DUE JULY 11:
British hard rockers Night By Night, who feature Ben Christo (Sisters Of Mercy guitarist) in their ranks, will release their brand new album "NxN", on July 11 (Europe),July 14 (UK) and July 15 (USA/Canada) via A Sun Hill Production/Cargo Records.
"NxN" was produced by Romesh Dodangoda (Motörhead, Bullet For My Valentine, Sylosis) at Outhouse studios, engineered by Rob Thomas, lead vocals produced & engineered by Ben Christo Henry Rundell and mixed by John Mitchell (Alter Bridge, Asia, Snakecharmer) at Outhouse studios. "These guys are the complete package, big hooks, big melodies and shit-hot harmonies. Night By Night are assured of a bright future!" (Rick Savage/Def Leppard)
Tracklist: 01. Time To Escape 02. Holding Onto Holding On 03. Cant Walk Away 04. Everywhere Tonight 05. Siren 06. A Thousand Lies 07. Its Not Faith 08. The Moment 09. If Only 10. Never Die Again.
Night By Night is: Henry Rundell – Lead Vocals (ex Voodoo Six), Tom Daniel – Guitars, Ben Christo – Guitars, Vocals (Sisters Of Mercy), Jonny Thornton – Bass, Vocals, Damien Diablo – Drums.
Night by Night areahard rock 5-piece from London who fuse searing riffs with soaring melodies. This cutting-edge quintet combine the best of classic and contemporary rock, charged with 3-part vocal harmonies to create their own sound and the result is a debut of unparalleled strength and musical maturity, with across the board appeal.
Combine the heavyweight riffs and modern crunch of Alterbridge, add the infectious choruses and lush vocal harmonies of Def Leppard for a taste of what Night by Night are all about. The band members each come with their own musical pedigree (The Sisters of Mercy, Voodoo Six) – and it shows. With flawless production (by Romesh Dodangoda - Funeral For A Friend, The Blackout, Bullet For My Valentine) and irresistible choruses, this is a rare gem of an album with ten strong songs, telling tales of hope and heartbreak.
From the beautifully addictive 'Can't Walk Away' to the hard rocking, 'Siren' and everyone's new favourite song, 'If Only' – Night by Night are creating musical alchemy.
"If you like hard rock with intensity, melody and meaning, you will find it here. We have real passion for what we are doing and have pushed ourselves to create the best music possible – no disclaimers, no excuses – we've worked hard and we are really proud of the result…"
Night by Night have toured extensively supporting the likes of Europe, Y&T, Jettblack, Heaven's Basement, Alannah Myles, Acey Slade, The Quireboys, Jayce Lewis,Warrior Soul, Dear Superstar, The Dirty Youth as well as performing storming sets at Hard Rock Hell and Download Festival.
WebLinks: www.nxnofficial.com / www.facebook.com/NightByNightUK.
ALL STAR CONCEPT ALBUM OUT NOW:
All-Star Concept Album Featuring Drum Legend Simon Phillips, Toto's Joseph Williams, and Uriah Heep's John Lawton Now Available!
Asheville, NC - Possibly the most anticipated new release of 2014, My Kind O' Lovin' featuring drum legend Simon Phillips, Toto's Joseph Williams, and Uriah Heep/Lucifer's Friend's John Lawton, is now available! Released on the heels of 2012's hit album The Power Of Mind, featuring John Lawton, My Kind O' Lovin' is another innovative new CD, conceived, written and produced by the CGI member, and as of very recently European Citizen of the Year (2013) Dr. Milen Vrabevski. This next charity project of his is dedicated to young talents in EU.
Says Milen, "I allowed myself to play acoustic guitar in just the title song this time. Nothing else. The team was just too good for my level. Happy they liked the pieces. Many thanks to the guys I started this project with, and worked on the arrangements: Ivo Stefanov and Svurry, and to the whole all star band for their devotion."
Pulling up a chair at Classic Rock Revisited's Best Releases 2012 with Intelligent Music Project I, The Power of Mind producer Milen Vrabevski is setting a high standard of expectations with his Intelligent Music Project II, My Kind O' Lovin'. The producer's next charity project goes to support education programs for talented kids. Milen was awarded European Citizen of the Year 2013 (by the EU Parliament), and a Member of the Clinton Global Initiative.
My Kind O' Lovin' features a colorful, multifarious and formidable listening experience with hints of melodic hard rock and early prog, featuring the fabulous Simon Phillips (Toto, Jeff Beck, The Who, Mike Oldfield, Protocol II etc.) on drums & percussion - brilliantly bringing out the chemistry of this unpredictable format of vintage vocals from John Lawton (ex-Uriah Heep) and Joseph Williams (Toto). Strong melodies and acoustic patterns with impressive vocals of undiminished power - this hefty emotional pool comes across in a very melodic way featuring great lead guitar and spacious orchestral flourishes.
The author translates to the audience his own experience & vision about everyday life topics in an easy manner, focusing on essential values – solid ground to step on to having a meaningful life.
Says Milen, "The message of the album is what I, as an author, would prefer to raise my kids with. Frustration, constant criticism, and judging people leads to nowhere. Therefore, we present essential things about love, friendship, our own environment we should invest in, getting into substantial initiatives, knowing happiness through serving the others, not limiting our minds with prejudice while seeking togetherness, understanding our life is in our hands, finishing off with the principle that it's good to wake up knowing what follows is a great day, in which fame does not matter, and ego's domination is retrograde, and you enjoy to live for the others, doing things not because of the result, but because you love to be that way."
Watch the official My Kind O' Lovin' promotional video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwavFSqjV7w&feature=youtu.be
Stand out tracks:
"Get Into Real" - if there is a song from this side act that connects the dots with some of William's Toto-related cuts, this is it, but with hints of Led Zep to Asia nuances.
"Happiness"- a track so cool it deserves a trip around the world. You can take a magic trip through the positive messages of the album via Simple Game, Things We Can't Do, Love Song to the rockin' No One Can Deny It, Time To Move Along and other pieces on this hit collection.
"Conclusion" - a 6-minute summary of the composer's key approaches throughout the album and presents the audience with the magnificent culmination of the super group Phillips-Lawton-Williams, the front-men format of Intelligent Music Project II.
Recording sessions for drums (Simon Phillips) and vocals (Joseph Williams) took place at Simon Phillips' Phantom Recordings studio. Producer and composer Vrabevski was provided full creative input by Simon Philips in developing the course of compositions and musical ideas. Says Milen, "We recorded all drums and percussion, and Joe's vocal parts at Simon's recording studio in LA. Simon devotedly played the role of our music co-producer there too. Now he's been kind enough to take part in finalizing all mixes of MKL tracks."
Simon Phillips is an iconic English drummer and producer. He is also a prolific session drummer, and has played with such well known music artists as The Who, Judas Priest, Jeff Beck, Tears for Fears, Mike Oldfield, Pete Townshend, the late Gary Moore and many others.
"Working on this project with Milen Vrabevski was so much fun and I find his enthusiasm for music is so uplifting." - Simon Phillips
Joseph Williams was part of four Toto albums – Fahrenheit (1986), The Seventh One (1988), Toto XX (1988) and Falling in Between (2006). He has since re-joined the touring edition of Toto for a series of shows across Europe and Japan.
"Milen was such a joy to work with .. Truly a warm and bright gentleman. It's rare thing these days to work with such happy, enthusiastic talented people ... I had a ball!!" - Joseph Williams
John Lawton, who split with Uriah Heep in 1979, was featured on the albums Innocent Victim (1977), Firefly (1977), Fallen Angel (1978) and Live '79 and is considered the best singer around the British heavy progressive rock institution. After recording the conceptual album The Power Of Mind, Intelligent Music Project I, he joins the super group with Phillips and Williams in the second project of Bulgarian producer and composer Milen Vrabevski – My Kind O' Lovin'.
"My Kind O' Lovin'....Intelligent Music Project II....was for me an absolute pleasure to sing, the melodies flowing out of Milen Vrabevski's head seem to be endless. The album differs a lot from The Power Of Mind, not only in that there are guest artist's in the caliber of Joseph Williams and Simon Phillips both of Toto fame but some searing guitar work from a little known Bulgarian axe man known only to me as Sverri. I spent 2 weeks laying down lead & backing vocals in Intelligent Music's new studio in Sofia / Bulgaria and believe me it wasn't hard work, not when the music is this good." - John Lawton
To purchase My Kind O' Lovin': www.amazon.com/Kind-Lovin-Intelligent-Music-Project / itunes.apple.com/gb/album/my-kind-o-lovin-feat.-joseph/id880550938 / For more information: www.mykindoflovin.com.
GREAT WHITE NEW ALBUM 'SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL' TO BE RELEASED IN JUNE:
[Note: as far as I can tell, this is a cobbled together compilation by "Collectors Dream Records"]
Great White's new album Saturday Night Special will be released on June 13th, 2014, through the Collectors Dream Records label. This 15 track collection of fan favorites includes the band's hits 'Once Bitten Twice Shy', 'Rock Me' and 'Save Your Love', plus covers of songs by: Led Zeppelin, Journey, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Van Halen, Motley Crue, Aerosmith and more.
Saturday Night Special tracklisting: 'Once Bitten, Twice Shy' (Ian Hunter), 'Rock Me' (Great White), 'Save Your Love' (Great White), 'Keep Your Hands To Yourself' (Georgia Satellites), 'Hard To Handle' (Black Crowes), 'Eye Of The Tiger' (Survivor), 'Saturday Night Special' (Lynyrd Skynyrd), 'Same Old Song And Dance' (Aerosmith), 'Kickstart My Heart' (Motley Crue), 'Any Way You Want It' (Journey), 'Unchained' (Van Halen) , 'Diamonds & Rust' (Joan Baez), 'Dazed & Confused' (Led Zeppelin), 'Sarah' (Thin Lizzy), 'Blue Christmas' (Elvis Presley).
Featuring Jack Russell on vocals and appearances by Dweezil Zappa, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter, Edgar Winter, Bruce Kulick, Tony Franklin and others. "Saturday Night Special" will be available on June 13th via Collectors Dream Records.
ALESTORM SET OFF INTO THE SUNSET:
Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the water… Alestorm are hitting the seven seas again! ALESTORM are back with their outstanding new album "Sunset On The Golden Age". Join the band as they cross the ocean on a vessel packed to the gunwales with their trademark catchy songs, fuelled by the bands on going love of the piratical life on the seven seas (with an abundance of wooden legs, parrots and eye patches thrown in for good measure!). Captain Christopher Bowes and his crazy crew are sailing through `Bacon Powered Pirate Core´ with sleek keyboard riffs influenced by folk metal and classic power metal.
The winner of the `Best New Pirate Metal Band´ Grammy Award, have once again triumphed in the studio and 'Sunset On The Golden Age' is full of brilliant performances and songs like 'Drink!', 'Walk The Plank', 'Magnetic North' and '1741 (The Battle For Cartagena)', that once heard will not be forgotten in a hurry!
A real treasure trove for pirates and rum-loving landlubbers!
POD-BRIEFS:
Episode 15 of One On One With Mitch Lafon: In part one Mitch sits down Tesla from man, Jeff Keith. The two discuss the band's latest album, Simplicity, as well as the band's storied history, The Mechanical Resonance album, Jeff's country & Bar 7 albums and much more.
In part two, Mitch sits down with legend George Thorogood. The pair discuss George's longevity, his 40th anniversary tour, the pros and cons of Bad To The Bone, his health, plans for a new album, bands with gimmicks and much more.
The episode of One On One With Mitch Lafon was co-hosted Talking Metal's Mark Strigl.
WebLink: www.spreaker.com/user/talkingmetal/one-on-one-with-mitch-lafon-episode-15.
This week on The Double Stop Podcast is an interview with legendary bassist Bob Daisley (Ozzy Osbourne, Rainbow, Uriah Heep, Gary Moore). Bob takes us through his career, and gives us a taste of what's in his new autobiography 'For Facts Sake'ť. He explains how he got his start as a bassist, and goes into detail on his pivotal role in Ozzy's first 6 studio albums. Plus he talks about his working relationship with Gary Moore, and his plans for the 'Holy Grail'ť – his rehearsal tapes of the original 'Blizzard of Ozz'ť band with Randy Rhoads. thedoublestop.com/ep-15-bob-daisley-ozzy-gary-moore / www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyAInC7zvKE&noredirect=1.
This week John Cuniberti returns to to the show for a 2nd interview to give us his top 20 tips for recording engineers, the history of Reamp (and why he created it during the mixing of Joe Satriani's "Time Machine"), and looks at two more projects he worked on – Kevin Gilbert's 'Taming of tthe True'ť (which he calls his favorite cd he's worked on) and Sammy Hagar's latest – 'Sammy Hagar and Friends' / thedoublestop.com/ep-16-john-cuniberti-producer-sammy-hagar-kevin-gilbert / / itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-double-stop/id818189359?mt=2.
CANADIAN PROG ROCKERS DRUCKFARBEN TO RELEASE SECOND SOUND CD:
Canadian progressive rock band Druckfarben will release their sophomore album, Second Sound, worldwide on March 22. The record will be available in CD form from their website (druckfarben.ca) and CD Baby, and digitally from iTunes and Bandcamp.
Second Sound features bold new colours in such songs as 'An Answer Dreaming'ť, 'In Disbelief'ť and 'Liberated Dream'ť, and concludes with the 19-minute 'Second Sound'ť suite. 'This is a natural progression from our first album,'ť says guitarist Ed Bernard, 'but also introduces musical elements that might be surprising to those who know our music so far.'
Bernard leads the group, which was formed in 2008 along with bassist Peter Murray (Surrender Dorothy, Ron Sexsmith), keyboardist William Hare (Crystal Shawanda, Angelica DiCastro, Abraham's Children), drummer Troy Feener (Full Nine, Tom Cochrane) and singer Phil Naro (Talas, Peter Criss, DDrive). In German, Druckfarben means 'coloured ink used for printing on textiles or other media.'ť In the mid-80s, teenaged Ed and Troy had no idea what the word meant when they discovered it stencilled on mysterious black barrels in their rehearsal studio. But many years later it resurfaced as the name of Canada's great new prog export.
All five members of Druckfarben grew up with a shared love of classic progressive rock music, such as Yes, Genesis, Gentle Giant, Rush, King Crimson and Kansas. They played their first show on March 1, 2008 in Port Credit, Ontario. Their self-titled debut was released in October 2011, followed by a live DVD (Artifact) in 2013. They quickly built up an international following, including supporters such as Kim Mitchell, Nick D'Virgilio (Spock's Beard), and Maurizio Guarini of Italy's Goblin, as well as producers Terry Brown (Rush) and David Bendeth (Bruce Hornsby, Paramore).
The band is eager to perform the exciting new material from Second Sound live throughout 2014 and beyond.
For news and updates, follow: www.druckfarben.ca / www.facebook.com/druckfarben.
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
VEGA TO RELEASE THEIR STEREO MESSIAH ON FRONTIERS: Frontiers Records is pleased to welcome back to the label British Melodic Rockers Vega who plan to release their third album "Stereo Messiah" in the fall of 2014.
"It is a pleasure to be part again of the best label in the world!" said James Martin keyboardist and co-songwriter of the band. The recordings are almost completed and the band is currently putting the finishing touches to the album which can certainly be enlisted as one of the Melodic Rock highlights of the second part of the year. "Stereo Messiah" has been produced by John Mitchell and will be mastered in June by Harry Hess of Harem Scarem. It will also see Def Leppard's Joe Elliott appear on a duet with singer Nick Workman on a rare Def Leppard song given to Vega by the Sheffield front man himself! "It's a cliché to say this, but it really is a dream come true for us. Leppard are a massive influence on us. This is such an honour!" said Nick.
Vega have also finalized already the first batch of UK shows. More dates will follow in the rest of Europe and UK in the following months:
November 1st: Nottingham Rescue Rooms
November 6th: Bolton Railway
November 7th: Swansea Static
November 8th: London The Garage
AOR LA CONNECTION DUE JULY 18: Escape Music will release the new AOR album L.A Connection July 18.
Track listing: On The Edge Of Glory / Pride Of Strangers / Closer To Zero / Once Off Guard / Lost Souls Don't Cry / Exiled In Sadness / Age Of Desire / Circle Of Danger / The Crystal Heart.
Musicians: Frédéric Slama : Guitars & Keyboards; Tommy Denander : All Instruments; Bill Champlin : Lead & Backing Vocals; Paul Sabu : Lead & Backing Vocals; Jeff Paris : Lead & Backing Vocals; Sherwood Ball : Lead & Backing Vocals; David Forbes : Lead & Backing Vocals; Philip Bardowell : Lead & Backing Vocals; Bob Harris : Lead & Backing Vocals; Rick Riso: Lead & Backing Vocals; Tamara Champlin: Lead & Backing Vocals; Pete Newdeck : Backing Vocals; Colin Rodgers : Guitars & Bass; Pat Thern : Drums.
Band bio: "Frederic Slama has continued to inspire us through the years with his "LA" themed releases. Ranging from soft rock to west coast to harder, edgier tunes Frederic has always brought quality music to the table. Now in 2014 Frédéric Slama' s AOR project is back with lucky number 13, with an impressive new album called L.A Connection, featuring a fantastic list of guests such as Tommy Denander, Bill Champlin (Chicago), Paul Sabu (Sabu, Only Child, Kidd Glove), Jeff Paris, Sherwood Ball (Jay Graydon), David Forbes (Boulevard), Rick Riso, Philip Bardowell (Places Of Power, Unruly Child), Bob Harris (Axe), Tamara Champlin & many others.
For this 13th album, AOR is flirting with heavier territories with songs reminiscent of Foreigner, Giant, Journey & Toto. The first class production by Frédéric Slama & Tommy Denander will leave you breathless and the legendary singers of L.A Connection will surely take Melodic Rock to new
heights. So it's time for the "L.A Connection".
This is AOR's best outing to date and worthy of your attention, like a great red wine AOR just improves as each year passes."
WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.
MORE FROM THAT VOICE:
Here's a better view of the 3 songs Steve Perry sung with The Eels this weekend past. It seems Perry's arrival on stage has gone viral!
KILLER DWARFS IN HIGHWAY SMASH: Killer Dwarfs frontman Russ Dwarf airlifted after band was involved in a multi-car freeway pileup returning from Rocklahoma appearance. Details: www.metalsludge.tv/?p=43662
I've just heard via Mitch Lafon that "Russ okay in hospital. On plane now coming home..."
INTRODUCING GERMAN ROCK BAND AT EAZE:
The German newcomer rock band At Eaze has just released their new record Another Shot - modern hard rock at its best! "Back in the years we released our first album Facing the Odds in 2010, which gave us a huge respect of the music scene in many countries. With our new record Another Shot we wanted to start something amazing, something that's a milestone in modern Hard rock music. Well, we've got it. And this one is for all of you guys out there!", singer/bass player Laura Fink says.
Another Shot will kick your ass with modern Hard rock and a strong woman's voice. So blow up your mind and hit your ears.
Don't miss these four awesome musicians and their powerful rock music. You can download the record on iTunes and Amazon. WebLink: www.facebook.com/ateaze.
Soundbytes: Jewellery - Sample / Quench My Thirst - Sample / Singing - Sample.
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MITCH LAFON TALKS TO GREAT WHITE:
In episode 16 of One On One With Mitch Lafon, Mitch sits down with, in part one, Great White's Michael Lardie to discuss the band's recently launched Official Great White TV channel on YouTube. The pair also discuss the band's upcoming touring and recording plans as well as singer Terry Ilous. They also talk about Michael's involvement in the 'A World With Heroes - Kiss tribute CD' (that raises money for a Montreal Palliative Care home), his cover of the Kiss song 'beth', Great White's Elation album and Michael's time with Night Ranger.
WebLink: www.spreaker.com/user/talkingmetal/one-on-one-with-mitch-lafon-episode-16.
In Part 2, Mitch chats with Great White's Mark Kendall and his wife Bridget Kendall. Topics of discussion include the launch of the Official Great White TV channel on YouTube. The challenges of being a rock 'n roll married couple and dealing with every day life while on the road (from taking care of the family, to paying bills, etc). This was Bridget's first ever interview with her husband, Mark. It offers a unique perspective of being a rock 'n roll family.
The episode of One On One With Mitch Lafon was co-hosted by former Guns 'N Roses & Great White manager, Alan Niven.
For more about Great White visit: www.greatwhiterocks.com. Follow Mark Kendall on Twitter: @MarkKendall_GW and Great White: @GreatWhiteBand
For more about the Kiss 40th Anniversary Tribute album for Palliative care on iTunes visit: itunes.apple.com/ca/album/world-heroes-kiss-tribute/id716859684.
PRE-ORDER SOUND OF ETERNITY AND MRCD12 NOW:
You can now pre-order Visions & Dreams, the debut album from Spanish melodic hard rock band Sound Of Eternity, to be released June 16 via MelodicRock Records.
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Sound of Eternity is a female fronted melodic rock band formed in San Pedro Sula, Honduras in 2013 by Jean Funes (Guitars) and Beatriz Aranda, the lead vocals from Cordoba, Spain. Its background comes from the band "Codigo Eterno", which makes melodic rock in Spanish since 2004, and was formed by guitarist Jean Funes. The debut album "Visions & Dreams" is filled with passionate songs inspired by melodic rock acts like Def leppard, White Heart and Petra, also modern rock bands like Skillet, Anberlin and Fireflight.
It was mixed and mastered by Erik Martensson (W.E.T., Eclipse, Jimi Jamison), who plays bass and keyboards on the album. Also with Andreas Passmark (Narnia, Rob Rock, Work of Art) on bass, as a guest studio musician. The cover artwork is made by Carl Andre Beckston (Monowasp) and booklet design by Nello Dell'Omo from Art For Music. Sound Of Eternity is: Beatriz Aranda – Vocals and BGV, acoustic Guitars; Jean Funes – Electric Guitars; Rui Prado – Drums / Guest Studio Musicians: Erik Martensson – Bass, Keyboards, Background Vocals; Andreas Passmark – Bass.
Pre-orders are also open for MRCD12 today. This compilation is going to be a VERY limited public release (see news from Wednesday for details...). Full soundbytes are now available:
Sound Of Eternity (MRR021)
$15 + $5 airmail shipping worldwide. Will ship out starting mid-June (June 23 release).
MRCD12 - Better Days (MRCD12)
$15 + $5 airmail shipping worldwide. Will ship out mid-June (June 23 release).
OR
ORDER
BOTH CDs
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MRCD12 & Sound Of Eternity $33 (Includes Airmail Shipping)
NEW REVIEWS ONLINE:
New Reviews added to the site today - the LAST batch before the launch of the new MR website!
Online today are reviews for: California Breed, Neal Schon, Timo Tolkki, Seven, Diesel, SunStrike, Mother Road, Alien, Dynazty and Brother Firetribe. Check them out now.
Today's reviews reflect a few things. First – there's a lot of great releases around. Plenty to pick and choose from for all!
Secondly, with the development of the new MR website, I haven't had much time to devote to reviews as is needed, so what I'm reviewing right now are the main titles around right now - and as far as those - they are mostly very consistent and of high quality. The ratings have been high all year – because of the quality with mainline releases and the fact I haven't had time to get to the secondary releases which may not obtain such high praise and help average out the scores, but equally deserving of coverage.
Which leads to my final point – the increased consistency and quality of releases is leading the reviews to tend higher and if I keep going we'll need a 110 rating soon enough.
So with today's reviews, say goodbye to the old MR site and stand by for the new. The new design allows me a whole lot more flexibility to add reviews one at a time, instead of painfully working up a batch and HTML'ing them to add in one go. That means more reviews, less constraints over what titles and the length of reviews (long if I want, short if I want…) and a slight tweak to the ratings system.
I have grappled with this for months, but decided that to do anything completely different would throw 16 years of past reviews into disarray, so the % system will stay and I'll continue to talk about the details within each release in as much detail as necessary, but at the same time, there is one additional rank being added within the current 0-100 system, plus I have tweaked the descriptions each color rank uses. On top of that, you can expect me to be tougher on scores and a general depreciation in overall marks (just slightly), as this will allow greater scope to point out truly outstanding releases, focus on the good records and allow room to grow once again.
80 is the new 90 :)
I'm looking forward to getting the new site launched….I hope the new layout and system makes sense and is as popular as the reviews here have been over the years. Once the new site is launched I will begin the slow process of cataloguing all past years' worth of reviews into one mega-searchable database at the new site!
Thanks for the support and awesome feedback over that time.
BEAUTIFUL GOODBYE FROM RICHARD MARX IN JULY:
A new Richard Marx album titles Beautiful Goodbye will be released worldwide July 8 via Marx's own independent label. The tracks featured on the album are: 01 Whatever We Started 02 Suddenly 03 Inside 04 Beautiful Goodbye 05 Forgot To Remember 06 Turn Off The Night 07 Have A Little Faith 08 Like The World Is Ending 09 To My Senses 10 Getaway 11 Eyes On Me.
Check out the first single now:
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STEVE PERRY JOINS THE EELS ON STAGE:
Great to hear the legendary Mr. Steve Perry on a stage once again - making a short cameo lead vocal appearance this weekend with The Eels. Check it out here: www.facebook.com/MelodicRockAU/posts/10152339516022326.
BRITISH MELODIC ROCKERS SERPENTINE RETURN:
Press Release: "We are delighted to announce that after twelve months in the proverbial wilderness, Serpentine are back!
After parting ways with our former singer Matt Black last year, and with our beloved bassist and founder member Gareth Vanstone bowing out in early 2014 due to health issues, it is with extreme pleasure that we welcome two new recruits to the band who represent the cream of the South Wales rock scene. Vocal powerhouse Adam Payne (ex-Tidal) was identified almost immediately upon Matt's departure as the voice to represent the new era of Serpentine, and is joined by bassist Owen Crawford whose work on former band Triaxis' 'Rage & Retribution' album is beyond impressive.
You may have gathered by now from our Facebook posts that work in the studio on our yet-to-be-titled third record, which is being produced and co-written by Gary Hughes (Ten), is well underway. The sessions so far have been great and we are more than confident that the songs we've chosen represent our best work to date. With that in mind, we are also very excited and honoured to have landed the services of Neil Kernon (Queensryche, FM, Judas Priest, Autograph) to mix the album this summer, which promises to have a harder and darker edge than previous releases.
More details will be available in a full press release, which will be out at the beginning of next week. In the meantime we hope that you will all join us in welcoming two class acts into Serpentine. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued support while we've been away. Now we're back, and you're gonna know about it!!"
PAUL DEAN'S PRE-LOVERBOY BAND STREETHEART RELEASES 1993 LIVE REUNION ALBUM:
One Night One Take features Dean, Matt Frenette and Ken "Spider" Sinnaeve reuniting with Kenny Shields and Daryl Gutheil
New York, May 23, 2014--Long before they became full-time members of Loverboy, guitarist Paul Dean, bassist Ken "Spider" Sinnaeve and drummer Matt Frenette were members of another legendary Canadian band, Streetheart. Long gathering dust in Dean's archives, One Night One Take finally sees the light of day, a live recording made at Winnipeg's Rolling Stone Cabaret on Friday, August 13, 1993, part of a week-long stint marking the band's reunion after Dean was "dumped" 15 years before.
One Night, One Take shows off a band where chops, musicianship and communication resulted in an almost 14-minute-long cover of the Rolling Stones' "Under My Thumb" and a fiery version of Them's Bert Berns-penned classic, "Here Comes the Night," both spotlighting Dean's intense guitar-playing. Sinnaeve's virtuoso bass and Frenette's frenetic drumming are showcased on one of the previously unreleased tracks, "Mr. Tall", while the other new track, "Losin' Streak", features vocalist Kenny Shields and keyboardist/vocalist Daryl Gutheil. Also, check out Dean's electric violin solo on "Move On Over," where Shields playfully dubs him Paul "Charlie Daniels" Dean, or his guitar pyrotechnics in "Can You Feel It" for further proof of Streetheart's legendary jamming prowess. "At rehearsal, I said to myself, how the heck am I gonna pull that off - did I actually play that?" laughs Dean today. Their musical touchstones included such powerhouse outfits as Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, and Cream (catch the snippet of "Sunshine of Your Love" in the midst of the almost 10-minute-long "Mr. Tall"). The CD is available now at Streetheart gigs as well as online, and can be downloaded worldwide from digital retailers like iTunes and Amazon, as well as streaming services such as Rdio, Beats Music and Spotify.
Based in Edmonton at the time, longtime musical collaborators Dean and Frenette were playing in a local cover band, Great Canadian River Race, when they heard about a group from Saskatchewan playing a bar in town. Dean says he and Frenette were impressed, to say the least. Soon after, they found themselves in Regina with Shields and Gutheil, and a year later they recorded their only album, Meanwhile Back in Paris. Dean was replaced in the group shortly thereafter, and eventually joined up with vocalist Mike Reno to form Loverboy, along with bassist Jim Clench (soon to be replaced by the late Scott Smith) and keyboardist Doug Johnson, with Frenette coming aboard soon afterward. "Spider," who went on to play with Tom Cochrane's Red Rider, rejoined his ex-Streetheart mates in 2001, after the tragic death of Smith. Streetheart went on to receive a Juno Award, two Ampex Golden Reel Awards and were voted the most popular Canadian act at the People's Choice Awards. During the course of their career, they toured with fellow Canucks Chilliwack, Rush, Aldo Nova and April Wine, as well as Sammy Hagar, Styx, Kansas, Blue Oyster Cult and AC/DC.
"I thought we were a great band," says Dean. "We definitely had dynamics and communication on stage, and it took a live album to showcase that. Yeah, I was pretty distraught when I got kicked out - that was a heavy period in my life, but I got over it. I survived. And now I think I can speak for Matt and Spider - it wouldn't take much convincing for us to do a tour one day. We're totally appreciative of all our Streetheart and Loverboy fans. Personally, it blows me away that people are still behind us as much as they are, and I'm excited we can finally offer them something like this in return."
Friday, May 23, 2014
TED NUGENT RETURNS WITH NEW ALBUM 'SHUTUP&JAM!' JULY 8:
Multi-platinum guitar icon Ted Nugent returns with a new full-length album SHUTUP&JAM!, due out Tuesday, July 8 on Frontiers Records (July 4 for Europe). This release marks the first all-new studio album from the Motor City Madman in seven years. Nugent leads the pack of renowned musicians, handling guitar and vocal duties, alongside bassist Greg Smith, drummer Mick Brown and longtime musical cohort guitarist/vocalist Derek St. Holmes. Special guest Sammy Hagar brings his vocal power to "She's Gone." SHUTUP&JAM! is available now for pre-order at Amazon. "SHUTUP&JAM! 2014…the unstoppable firestorm of Ted Nugent, all American MotorCity, high energy R&B&R&R soulmusic erupts once again with what many gungho music lovers are raving to be the best songs and best music and highest energy rockout of my insanely wonderful musical American Dream," Nugent exclaims. "Sammy Hagar sings his balls off on 'She's Gone' and Derek St. Holmes proves once again that the MotorCity produces not just the greatest guitar grind masterlicks ever but one of the most powerful soul voices of all time on 'Everything Matters!' Unleashing early July 2014. Read em & weep! SHUTUP&JAM! you know who I am, you know where I stand, so SHUTUP&JAM! I am!"
"When I first heard Ted's demo of this song, I immediately responded with 'I'm in,'" Hagar shares of his involvement on the track "She's Gone." "Ted's ripping the guitar like the days of old…very inspiring to sing to a track like that—old-school blues riff, hard edged rock 'n roll on fire!!!"
To coincide with the release of SHUTUP&JAM!, Ted has announced that he's packing up and hitting the road. On Saturday, June 7 he will join Black Sabbath, Alice Cooper, Volbeat and other rock titans at the Sweden Rock Festival in Sölvesborg, Sweden. He'll then prepare for his national headlining tour, kicking off July 3 in Wichita Falls, TX. Ticket info for all shows is available at tour.tednugent.com.
Nugent has carved a permanent place in rock & roll history as the ultimate guitar-shredding showman, selling more than 40 million albums, performing 6,500 high-octane live shows, and continuing to set attendance records at venues around the globe. Hailing from Detroit, the guitarist's prodigious talents, earshattering volume & over-the-top onstage antics quickly earned Young Ted the moniker of "Motor City Madman," along with international acclaim.
Recognized as the world's leading guitar showman, Nugent's no-holds-barred career spans five decades of multiplatinum hits. From the ground breaking Amboy Dukes' "Journey to the Center of the Mind," to classics like "Stranglehold" (ranked in the Top 100 Classic Rock Songs and #1 Guitar Lick) and "Cat Scratch Fever" (32nd Best Hard Rock Song of All Time), Damn Yankees chartbuster "High Enough" and cult classic "Fred Bear" (the most requested song for radio airplay in Michigan & Wisconsin).
Nugent was recently named Detroit's Greatest Guitar Player of All Time by readers of MLive. For millions of passionate music lovers everywhere, Ted delivers the Ultimate Life Soundtrack. A Ted Nugent show is not just a performance—it's a firebreathing celebration!
L-R: Ted Nugent, Derek St. Holmes, Mick Brown, and Greg Smith Photo credit: James & Maryln Brown
WebLinks: www.tednugent.com / www.facebook.com/tednugent / www.twitter.com/tednugent.
THE BABY ANIMALS RELEASE A DELUX, FULLY LOADED EDITION OF 'THIS IS NOT THE END':
The fans wanted it. The Baby Animals have delivered it. A deluxe, fully loaded edition of last year's Top 20 ARIA charting album, This Is Not The End. To be released on Friday, June 6, via Social Family Records, This Is Not The End (Deluxe Fully Loaded Edition), celebrates the one year anniversary of the original album's release, and includes never before released live versions of the band's biggest hits, such as Early Warning, Rush You, Painless, and One Word.
This Is Not The End (Deluxe Fully Loaded Edition) offers their legion of fans: 16 live tracks from the 'Feed The Birds' tour - BA365 Rockumentary on the making of the album - A lyrics booklet - The new single, This Is Not The End.
Available for pre-order now, the album also comes with a few unique pre-order pack options, PLUS everyone who pre-orders goes into the running to win the jacket Suze wore on the "Feed The Birds" tour and a one-off artwork from Suze herself.
This Is Not The End (Deluxe Fully Loaded Edition) will be available Friday June 6. Pre-order your copy from the Social Family Records Store, Sanity, or iTunes.
Track Listing: Disc 1
1. Email
2. Bonfires
3. Under Your Skin
4. Stitch
5. Invisible Dreamer
6. Warm Bodies
7. Things That Make You Stay
8. Priceless
9. Hot Air Balloon
10. Got It Bad
11. Winters Day
12. This Is Not The End
Disc 2 (Live) 1. Under Your Skin
2. Got It Bad
3. Rush You
4. Bonfires
5. Warm Bodies
6. Invisible Dreamer
7. Painless
8. Don't Tell Me What To Do
9. Stitch
10. One Word
11. Hot Air Balloon
12. Email
13. Early Warning
14. One Too Many
15. Ain't Gonna Get
16. Dirty Bird (Outro Jam)
ALBERTO RIGONI: SONG IN MEMORIAM OF RANDY COVEN PASSED AWAY ON MAY 20, 2014: Alberto Rigoni: song in memoriam of Randy Coven passed away on May 20th 2014 "I discovered Randy Coven back in 2002 when I purchased ARK's "Burn the Sun" (one of my favorite albums ever). I was amazed by his unique and superb bass playing. The way he played fretless bass in metal songs was truly innovative. Recently I was trying to contact him for a new studio project that will feature many great prog rock metal bass players from all around the world. Yesterday I learned that he passed away. I'm still shocked and I don't know what to say but will dedicate my new album (out on October 1st 2014) to him. RIP Randy, you will always inspire my music!!"
In memoriam of Randy, Alberto makes available the song "Corruption" from his upcoming album, featuring Simone Mularoni (DGM) on guitars, Federico Solazzo on keyboards and Denis Novello on drums. The instrumental progressive metal song can be listened at the following link: soundcloud.com/albertorigoni/alberto-rigoni-corruption-in-memoriam-of-randy-coven.
MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features:
- Chicago - Star Sessions '82
- Streetheart - Buried Treasure (1984)
- Bad Company - Live, New York, Electric Ladyland (1992) Join MRX now!
Thursday, May 22, 2014
NIGHT RANGER BONUS TRACK PREVIEW: Night Ranger release their anticipated High Road album June 6, and there's a few bonus tracks on offer. Those are:
L.A. No Name (Instrumental) & The Mountain Song on the Deluxe Edition of CD (Worldwide + DVD)
L.A. No Name, Don't Even Know Your Name & The Mountain Song (Best Buy USA, Deluxe CD +DVD)
Lay It On Me (Live) (Japan release).
R.I.P. BASS GREAT RANDY COVEN:
Rock bassist Randy Coven, who toured and recorded with artists including Yngwie Malmsteen and Steve Vai, passed away on May 20th of undisclosed causes. He was 54.
Born in Great Neck, New York, Coven was introduced to music at a young age. His parents fostered his love of music by taking him to the Beatles concert at Shea Stadium when he was just five years old, and from there his dream was to make music. He started on drums but switched to bass after feeling restricted behind the drum set. According to his biography on the Phil Brodie Band website, Jeff Berlin lived around the corner and overheard him working on a Stanley Clarke song.
More at: www.notreble.com/buzz/2014/05/21/in-memoriam-randy-coven/
And from last week (forgive the late notice): Tweet from Lou Gramm "It is with a heavy heart that I post Foreigner's original Bassist, Ed Gagliardi past away Saturday. Rest in Peace Ed."
R.I.P. to two more another musical greats.
I'd also like to take a moment to mention the passing of a long time MR.com reader from Canada - Paul Enns. Paul was a huge supporter of this site and he attended both the first two MelodicRock Fest events, he was sadly too sick to attend last year and recent passed away from cancer. It's never easy to hear news like this and we wish his family all the very best. R.I.P. Paul.
INTHESTUDIO WITH REDBEARD PAYS TRIBUTE TO ROCK AND ROLL HEROES:
Dallas, TX - May 20, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands remembers Rock and Roll's departed musical heroes with a special star-studded tribute. Echoes: Classic Rockers Remembered is a two-part, two week broadcast radio special featuring tributes to John Lennon, Ray Charles, Jerry Garcia, George Harrison, Jimi Hendrix, Syd Barrett, Lou Reed, Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek, Ronnie Van Zant, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Ronnie Montrose, Alvin Lee, Brad Delp, John Entwistle, Keith Moon, Randy Rhoads, remembered by artists Tom Petty, Eric Clapton, Ozzy Osbourne, Gary Rossington of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Roger Waters, Joe Cocker, and Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead.
Although this is not a complete list of departed classic rockers who have appeared with Redbeard In the Studio, it does cover a significant portion of Rock and Roll music makers who shaped the sound of the second half of the 20th century. Pink Floyd co-founder Roger Waters, for example, shares with InTheStudio host Redbeard his thoughts about the vital importance of Pink Floyd co-founder, the late Syd Barrett. "Being a Syd Barrett fan seems to be, to me, a perfectly legitimate and reasonable way of spending your spare time... He was a very interesting man... He was the key that unlocked the door to Rock'n'Roll for me."
Echoes In The Studio: Classic Rockers Remembered interview part one is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/echoes-studio-classic-rockers-remembered-pt-1/
THE WIZARDS OF WINTER LAUNCH TRIBUTE TRACK: The Wizards of Winter commemorate Memorial Day by releasing "March of the Metal Soldiers", honoring the US Military and aiding Wounded Warriors.
Prog-Metal band The Wizards of Winter have officially released their first song from their forthcoming new album that they have been working on with Trans-Siberian Orchestra founding member Tommy Farese. The song is called "March of the Metal Soldiers". They are releasing this now in honor of Memorial Day and will be donating a portion of the proceeds from all sales of this track to the Wounded Warrior Project as their way of thanking all that have served . They have put together a short slide show so that you can preview the music here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=krBewQRb4yU. To purchase a copy, visit their website thewizardsofwinter.com
"March of the Metal Soldiers" is a reworking of the classic standard "March of the Toys", reimagined by band leader Scott Kelly with screaming guitars, lush keyboards and a heavy new arrangement that shows off the band's versatility. Of special note is the song's vocal interlude. The lyrics are the slogans of the four branches of the US Military slogans converted to and sung in Latin.
The full album is due for release in the Fall of 2014, with album artwork designed by legendary album cover artist Ioannis. A winter tour will follow with Trans-Siberian Orchestra founding members Tommy Farese and Tony Gaynor as their special guests.
MELODICROCK 2014 - READY TO GO (ALMOST)!:
The brand new MelodicRock.com website is finally complete and almost ready to roll. Those that originally donated towards the costs of getting the new site built will receive an email to invite them to beta-test the site in the next day or so!
I thank everyone for their patience in getting this thing ready to roll and really feel that the new site will be a much better asset to music fans in the way they can share information, engage in social media connections and also the way the site archives all information and artists for easy reference.
In light of the work needed to go into prepping the new site for launch, news updates here will be pretty brief for the next week or so and there will be a day or two of downtime before the official launch date - to be announced next week!
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
BON JOVI FINALLY GET PERFECT NEW JERSEY RE-ISSUE PLANNED: Bon Jovi will celebrate 30 years of living in sin with a massive catalog reissue campaign that kicks off July 1st with a remastered edition of their 1988 album, New Jersey. That record, which reached Number One on the Top 200, contained five singles, including the "Bad Medicine," "I'll Be There for You," "Lay Your Hands on Me" and "Living in Sin." The new version of the record will appear in three iterations, a single disc reissue, a two disc deluxe edition, and two CD, or a two CD/one DVD super deluxe edition, the latter two packed with bonus material.
The two-disc deluxe edition will feature three bonus cuts initially released as B sides, as well as 13 previously unreleased demos from the New Jersey recording sessions that were originally intended to appear on a double-LP titled Sons of Beaches. The deluxe edition will also come with a 32-page booklet filled with insider commentary on the bonus cuts and rare photos from the New Jersey recording sessions and ensuing world tour.
Track listing:
Bon Jovi: New Jersey [CD, digital]
1. Lay Your Hands On Me
2. Bad Medicine
3. Born To Be My Baby
4. Living In Sin
5. Blood On Blood
6. Homebound Train
7. Wild Is The Wind
8. Ride Cowboy Ride
9. Stick To Your Guns
10. I'll Be There For You
11. 99 In The Shade
12. Love For Sale
Bon Jovi: New Jersey (Deluxe Edition) [2CD, digital]
Disc 1: New Jersey (original album, remastered) + bonus tracks
1. Lay Your Hands On Me
2. Bad Medicine
3. Born To Be My Baby
4. Living In Sin
5. Blood On Blood
6. Homebound Train
7. Wild Is The Wind
8. Ride Cowboy Ride
9. Stick To Your Guns
10. I'll Be There For You
11. 99 In The Shade
12. Love For Sale
Bonus Tracks:
13. The Boys Are Back In Town (Cover of the Thin Lizzy classic; previously released on Stairway To Heaven/Highway To Hell compilation; released in the U.K. as a 12" single B-side)
14. Love Is War (B-side from Living In Sin single)
15. Born To Be My Baby (Acoustic Version; previously released as a B-side in Japan)
Disc 2: The 'Sons Of Beaches' Demos (** All tracks on DISC 2 are previously unreleased)
1. Homebound Train
2. Judgment Day
3. Full Moon High
4. Growin' Up The Hard Way
5. Let's Make It Baby
6. Love Hurts
7. Backdoor To Heaven
8. Now And Forever
9. Wild Is The Wind
10. Stick To Your Guns
11. House Of Fire
12. Does Anybody Really Fall In Love Anymore?
13. Diamond Ring
Bon Jovi: New Jersey (Super Deluxe Edition) [boxed 2CD/DVD]
Disc 1: New Jersey (original album, remastered) + bonus tracks
Disc 2: The 'Sons Of Beaches' Demos (Previously Unreleased)
Disc 3 (Dvd): 1. 'Access All Areas: A Rock & Roll Odyssey' Directed by Wayne Isham. The original 1990 88-minute documentary of the band's epic 16-month world tour in support of the New Jersey album; includes rare backstage, on-the-road, and live concert footage.
First time released in the U.S. on DVD format
2. Music Videos From the New Jersey album: All directed by Wayne Isham: Bad Medicine (1st Version) Born To Be My Baby I'll Be There For You Lay Your Hands On Me Living In Sin Blood On Blood Bad Medicine (2nd Version).
Original audio produced by Bruce Fairbairn; engineered and mixed by Bob Rock.
CALIFORNIA BREED DEBUT NEXT VIDEO: California Breed, one of most exciting new bands of 2014 featuring legendary vocalist-bassist Glenn Hughes, drummer extraordinaire Jason Bonham and 23-year-old newcomer guitarist-singer-songwriter Andrew Watt, have premiered their new video "The Way" via billboard.com. Check out the clip and read the Q&A with Glenn Hughes on billboard.com, here: tinyurl.com/o7e5rnu.
In other video news, guitar world.com has posted the final installment of the band's "making of" the album series. Watch all five episodes, here: tinyurl.com/osmsfyc.
California Breed's self titled debut album was released yesterday, Monday, May 19 on Frontiers Records and is already #2 on the U.S. iTunes Rock albums chart and climbing national charts in Europe.
Mixing massive riffs, gutsy vocals and gale force rhythms, the album was produced by Dave Cobb (Jamey Johnson, Rival Sons, Shooter Jennings), and was recorded at his Nashville studio and features equal co-writing credits among the three-man lineup.
California Breed will perform their first-ever U.S. show on Wednesday, May 28 at the Whisky A GO GO and their first New York City show will be Saturday, May 31 at Gramercy Theatre. The band will announce their U.K., European and U.S. tours soon.
California Breed is available now as a CD, digital download and Deluxe Edition CD + DVD featuring the bonus song "Solo," two video clips and a documentary.
INTRODUCING ETHAN BROSH:
Burgeoning heavy-metal guitar hero Ethan Brosh is about to get in the middle of a spectacular musical battle royal called Drum Wars.
Chosen for his extraordinary technical brilliance, Brosh will join legendary sibling drummers Carmine and Vinny Appice on stage for two Drum Wars extravaganzas in New York, including dates in Poughkeepsie on June 20 and two shows the next night at New York City's famed Iridium venue.
All this coming on the heels of a CD release event for Brosh's remarkable new instrumental album "Live the Dream" on May 31 at The Hard Rock Cafe in Boston. "I am honored to be joining two of the biggest drumming legends for a few shows!" exclaims Brosh. "Carmine and Vinny Appice have been in some of rock's biggest groups. Both have influenced generations of drummers. I've been to one Drum Wars concert and loved the intensity and craziness that goes on throughout the whole show!"
Brosh is thrilled at the prospect of playing alongside a vast assemblage of supremely skilled musicians and tackling material he's loved for years. And there's another reason why these shows are important for him. "It is all backed up by a never-ending amount of talent on stage," says Brosh. "Lots of my favorite songs by Ozzy, Dio and more are played in a very cool way! I will be joining Carmine and Vinny in New York City and Poughkeepsie, NY, close to where I was born. To me, these shows will be very special. I can't wait to play these songs onstage with two of the greatest drummers in the world! I would urge anyone in the New York area not to miss these awesome shows!"
For his part, Carmine Appice is thrilled to get a chance to play with Brosh. "Ethan is one of the best young guitar slingers of today," says Carmine. "His style techniques are awesome. Not many can play like him!"
Here are the Drum Wars dates:
June 20, 2014 - Poughkeepsie, NY - The Chance
June 21, 2014 - New York City - The Iridium (two shows)
Indeed, Brosh is uniquely blessed with astounding musical gifts. Not only is he a uniquely talented performer, but Brosh is also building a reputation as a first-rate songwriter, as evidenced by his newest recording, "Live the Dream." He's chomping at the bit for the world to hear it.
"Finally, on May 31st, the CD release show for 'Live the Dream' will take place at the Hard Rock Cafe in Boston!" declared Brosh. "I'm very much looking forward to having such a special show in my home town of Boston! It's been five years since my last album. I can't wait to be back on stage with my instrumental band at the Hard Rock and play this new material to some of my fans and friends so close to home! This will be a real fun night to everyone who will show up. My instrumental band is the most powerful band I've ever been in. People can expect a very intense show on the 31st! Bringing HARD ROCK back to the HARD ROCK!!!"
Space Invaders video link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfYp4VdBzk4&feature=youtu.be.
The buzz continues to build for Brosh, and it will undoubtedly only grow stronger with a brand new video filmed for "Space Invaders," one of the many standout tracks on "Live the Dream." Brosh's fiery shredding is on display in the clip: www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfYp4VdBzk4&feature=youtu.be.
As Brosh explains, "A music video is something that has to go hand-in-hand with the music that it's associated with. It is part of the art as a whole. It is the image that will stay in the minds of the listeners for as long as they listen to that particular musical piece. When I have a music video done, I take the process almost as seriously as I take my music. A lot of time, energy and attention to detail gets into play when we shoot or edit a video." Talking about the video's director, Seth C. Brown, Brosh was effusive in his praise. "This video was made by Seth C. Brown, who can turn around any rushed, impossible to shoot scene with bad lighting into a beautiful work of art! I'm very proud of the new video for 'Space Invaders' and can't wait to make more videos for this record!" states Brosh.
Mixed by Max Norman (Ozzy Osbourne, Megadeth) and featuring the talents of world-class bassist Dave Ellefson, as well as the mastering expertise of Bob Ludwig (Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Iron Maiden), "Live the Dream" is Brosh's most exciting and ambitious project to date. And the album cover painting by Joe Petagno (Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd) is also sure to turn heads.
Issued by Carmine Appice's label Rocker Records LLC, "Live the Dream" is available for purchase via these links: itunes.apple.com/us/album/live-the-dream/id816347755 / www.amazon.com/Live-Dream-Ethan-Brosh/dp/B00HZMRX0Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1393806359&sr=8-1&keywords=ethan+brosh.
For more information, visit www.ethanbrosh.com.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
SWEDISH MELODIC ROCKERS DALTON TO SIGN A RECORDING DEAL WITH FRONTIERS RECORDS: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of reunited Swedish Melodic Rockers Dalton for the release of a brand new album expected for the fall of 2014.
Together with Europe and Treat, for a few years in the late 80's, Dalton was a force to be reckoned with in Sweden. They enjoyed successful touring, teen media coverage, TV appearances and a string of radio hits. Even world stars such as Bon Jovi and Michael Bolton provided original songs to their two albums.
The band, formed by ex-Treat drummer Mats Dahlberg and named after his nickname, went all in with the current trends in melodic hair metal. Their image was cutting edge with designer outfits and enough hair spray every night to challenge the average user's yearly consumption. The band was killed by grunge in the early 90´s, a destiny shared by many bands of the 80´s. "I left the band because I wanted a harder edge while the rest of the guys wanted to go softer", Mats explains. He formed the short lived band Speedy Gonzales with Therion-singer Thomas Vikström, but the project folded before it took off. The rest of the Dalton members continued with a replacement drummer, but shortly called it a day. Dalton was left behind in the pit stop, dried out of gas.
25 years after their debut album "The Race Is On", the original members came back with a vengeance and a reunion filmed for TV. "That's how it started", Mats says. "A producer called me and asked if we would reunite and if they could film it for a documentary. I thought it was a joke". "So did I", singer Bosse Lindmark adds, "but it was true - and from the first rehearsal it was like time had stood still. It was so much fun!" Old hits were polished to shine and the success at premiere gig when opening for Scorpions in Sweden in December 2012 was a fact. "That night back in December ignited the fuse, we all felt the same", says Bosse. "Let's get the Dalton wheels in motion again. We want to celebrate the legacy of the 80's rock scene by putting out a new album and take it on tour. Just like we did back in the days".
Loaded with inspiration and dedication the band went through demos made for the never recorded third album along with some newly written songs. They ended up with 11 pure excellent tracks crafted for an 80's melodic rock album in a contemporary suit. In good company with magic minded producer Erik Mĺrtensson (Eclipse, W.E.T., Jimi Jamison) the band hit the Blowout Studios in April and are now in the process of finalizing the album due for release this fall.
A first shimmering taste of the songs from album was revealed at the recent appearance that the band had at the Frontiers Rock Festival in Milan, Italy May 1, here Dalton premiered the new song "Hey You" (also included in the Frontiers Rock Festival CD compilation) in front of an ecstatic crowd. It is possible to hear a taste of things to come following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKU0BPu19K8.
Dalton is fueled up and back on the race track, ready to go – the race is on! Expect the new album Pit Stop to hit the shops in the fall.
Dalton: Bosse Lindmark (vocals), Leif Westfahl (guitars), Anders Lindmark (bass), Ola Lindström (keyboards), Mats "Dalton" Dahlberg (drums).
Follow the band: www.facebook.com/daltonsweden.
HOUSTON READY TO DELIVER AGAIN: Houston is back with exciting changes to the line-up! Earlier this year, Mr. Freddie Allen, co-founder and drummer of Houston, decided to leave the band to pursue other walks of life. He will be deeply missed.
With Freddies departure, the bands frontman Hank Erix, together with fellow band member/producer Ricky Delin have recruited an all new fantastic band line-up that will now represent the new era of Houston. "We are now a six-piece band and will perform as such in writing songs, recording and playing live gigs. Our gratitude goes out to the superb session players associated with Houston, who were vital parts of bringing us this far. Thank you!"
The Houston band: Hank Erix (Lead vocals), Ricky Delin (Keyboards/Backing vocals), Soufian Ma'Aoui (Bass), Calle Hammar (Guitars/Backing vocals), Victor Lundberg (Keyboards/Backing vocals ), Oscar Lundström (Drums).
The band will shortly announce their first live shows. Be sure to catch us. Stay tuned! The journey has just begun...
ACE FREHLEY REUNITES WITH KEN KELLY FOR 'SPACE INVADER' COVER ART:
Founding Kiss guitarist and 2014 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Ace Frehley has tapped long-time friend and artist Ken Kelly to create the album cover for his upcoming LP Space Invader, due out July 7th. Kelly, who created the iconic cover art for two of Kiss's best-selling LPs, Destroyer (1976) and Love Gun (1977), says, "It was very exciting when I was approached with the idea of doing an album cover for Ace."
Ken Kelly is also widely known for his paintings in the sword and sorcery and heroic fantasy sub genres, most notably for the Conan the Barbarian novels. He continues, "I had spoken to Ace on a few occasions about the possibility, so I was delighted when it actually happened."
Ace Frehley himself comments, "I've been talking with Ken Kelly since 2007 about painting a CD Cover for me and it has finally happened! I couldn't be more excited about the new Space Invader cover and the music behind it is also going to rock your world!"
With nearly 35 years between projects, Kiss fans will surely be excited about this long-time duo working together again. Kelly concludes, "I am very pleased with the results and proud to play a part of Ace's continuing successful career!" Ace Frehley will release Space Invader, his first new solo album in five years, via SPV/Steamhammer in Europe on July 7th, 2014. The album will include at least nine brand new original songs as well as a cover of Steve Miller's "The Joker."
Widely known as the original "Space Ace" and founding guitarist for 16 cumulative years (over 2 tenures) of the multi-platinum selling rock band KISS, Frehley is demonstrably the most popular original member. In addition to having the best-selling solo album career (vintage or current) among the original foursome, Frehley's self-titled Ace Frehley, released in 1978, went on to sell over one million copies, producing the only Top 40 single, "New York Groove," from any of the legendary KISS solo albums; (peaking at #13). The massive hit was most recently featured in an episode of cult show Entourage and was also KISS' second best-selling download in 2012, besting such Kiss Army anthems as "I Was Made For Lovin' You," "Beth" and "Calling Dr. Love" even after 36 years.
Since departing from Kiss, Frehley went on to release four more solo albums and one live EP including his most recent effort, Anomaly in 2009, which debuted at #27 on the Billboard Top 200 chart and received a welcoming response among critics. "'Anomaly' shows why many rock and metal guitarists list 'Space Ace' as a prime six-string influence," said Rolling Stone.
WebLinks: www.acefrehley.com / www.spv.de.
JUDAS PRIEST SET "MARCH OF THE DAMNED" AS LEADOFF SINGLE FROM FORTHCOMING ALBUM:
For the past few weeks, metalheads worldwide have undoubtedly been enjoying the "sneak peak" title track from Judas Priest's forthcoming 'Redeemer of Souls' album. And on Monday, May 19th, the official leadoff single from the album, March of the Damned, will be released to rock and metal radio, and will be available for purchase via all digital sales providers. Additionally, on the same day, pre-orders for the full album will be made available through iTunes: smarturl.it/redeemerofsouls-albm
As the band themselves said about "March of the Damned," "Our passion for heavy metal has never diminished, and this track sounds off with real conviction!" Listen to the new song here: youtu.be/HJhm2vZFj2k.
'Redeemer of Souls' will be made available from Epic Records on Tuesday, July 15th, 2014, as both a standard version and a deluxe edition with five bonus tracks. When asked what fans can expect from Priest's 17th album overall, guitarist Glenn Tipton replied, "Sometimes in the past we may have come under fire for being too adventurous musically - so we have listened!! From start to finish 'Redeemer of Souls' is 13 songs of pure classic Priest metal!!"
Comprised of Rob Halford (vocals), Glenn Tipton (guitar), Richie Faulkner (guitar), Ian Hill (bass), and Scott Travis (drums), Judas Priest is responsible for some of heavy metal's all-time classic songs ("Living After Midnight," "Breaking the Law," "You've Got Another Thing Coming," etc.) and albums ('British Steel,' 'Screaming for Vengeance,' 'Painkiller,' etc.
And soon, fans will discover that Priest has assembled another metal classic, with the "March of the Damned" single and 'Redeemer of Souls' full-length.
For further information visit: www.judaspriest.com / www.facebook.com/OfficialJudasPriest.
Monday, May 19, 2014
NEW URIAH HEEP VIDEO: Uriah Heep fans can check out the video for "One Minute". The new video is taken from the band's studio album "Outsider" which is going to be released on Frontiers Records on June 6 in Europe, June 9 in the UK and June 10 in North America. The new single is also available for download (iTunes, Amazon etc) and legal streaming (Spotify, Deezer, etc) on all digital platforms across the world! The new single is also available in a special version with German lyrics (in the chorus) and it is called "Eine Minute". Fans can also preorder the album "Outsider" now on Amazon and iTunes.
"One Minute" begins with Bernie Shaw singing against longtime keyboardist Phil Lanzon's piano, but soon turns into a rocker driven by founding guitarist Mick Box's bluesy riff and Lanzon's Hammond organ. "This new album, "Outsider," is very much a rock album in true 'Heep' style," Box said, adding "It shows that we still have the same passion and energy for our music that we have always had." The new album includes 11 brand new songs, including some epic additions to the band's huge catalogue of rock classics.
Uriah Heep started the recordings of the new album "Outsider" in January 2014 at Liscombe Park Studios in Buckinghamshire England under the direction of producer Mike Paxman (Asia, Status Quo).
INTRODUCING BLUE COW KENT:
Swedish AOR/hard rock band Blue Cow Kent release their debut album Phantom Cathedral, including the singles Alias Lincoln Bravo and In case of emergency. Their debut On our way to Budokent EP from 2013, featured the AOR smash Ready to bite that was included on the compilation CD of Classic Rock AOR Magazine´s Issue 10. The new concept album Phantom Cathedral takes the band back to their roots of 70´s hard rock but still with elements of AOR and even progressive rock.
Tracklisting : 1.Phantom Cathedral 2.Clown Eraser A.D 3.Thunder Is Coming 4.Alias Lincoln Bravo 5.The Die Is Cast 6.Torah Of Efva 7.In Case Of Emergency 8.Orange Air 9.Ancient Continents 10.No Condolences For Uncle Ben 11.Last Hurrah.
Artwork designed by Caio Caldas at CadiesArt.com. Download the new single In case of emergency here: bluecowkent.bandcamp.com.
SEVENTRAIN FEATURING FORMER MEMBERS OF CAGE, 24-7 SPYZ & TOURNIQUET RELEASE VIDEO:
Southern California rockers Seventrain featuring former 24-7 Spyz (Atlantic Records) drummer Joel Maitoza, former Cage (Massacre Records) guitarist Eric Horton, guitarist Jef Poremba who previously played with Coffi Baker, former Tourniquet bassist Steve Dinoť Andino and vocalist Jon Campos (Dive Bomber) have just released the official video for their new single 'Bittersweet Seduction' available here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzvoXPbbbzI.
The bands self-titled debut album was released in the US, Europe and Japan on February 18th, 2014 on So Cal Records / Alliance Entertainment and charted on the CMJ Top 40 Loud Rock charts at #36 it's first week to radio. The album is currently available on iTunes at this location: itunes.apple.com/us/album/seventrain/id795963008.
The track listing for Seventrain is as follows: Bleeding, Rays Of The Sun, Change, Broken, Pain, Trouble, Never, Bittersweet Seduction, How Does It Feel, Carry The Cross, Let It Out.
Seventrain has recently been playing select dates with Michael Schenker, Black Star Riders, Skid Row and Pat Travers before heading out on a US tour this summer.
INTRODUCING DUAL EQUATION:
Press release: "We are very pleased to present you our new melodic rock project, Dual Equation. Dual Equation are: Fabio Di Angelo (Sypherion) - Guitars, bass, keys. & programming; Manu Esteve (Hardreams) - Lead & Backing Vocals. Our music ranges from the purest Westcoast sound to the more energetic Melodic Hard Rock and the debut album is well underway ... Here's our brand new video, Gypsy Eyes: youtu.be/FA6IiXpY44I.
You can hear some soundbytes in this teaser too...youtu.be/yCqk70iuqdI
For any information about Dual Equation, please, click on this link: www.facebook.com/DualEquationBand.
A NEW DENIED VIDEO LAUNCHES: DENIED, the Swedish metal band featuring vocalist Johan Fahlberg (Jaded Heart) and bassist Fredrik Isaksson (formerly of Therion and Grave), has on Friday 16:th of May released the music video for the single "Three degrees of evil" (Sliptrick Records). The video was produced by Atomic Movie Labs and directed by Fylo. The single "Three degrees of evil " was recorded with producer Fredrik Folkare (Unleashed).
Link to Youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=pl-W6jt_ZIQ / www.deniedworld.com / www.facebook.com/deniedworld.
POD/INTERVIEW BRIEFS: The Decibel Geek Podcast has released an interview with Steve Lynch, from the L.A. based band Autograph. Decibel Geek writer Rich (The Meister) Dillon caught up with Steve recently in Toronto and got the inside scoop from the 80's era band reborn and currently on tour throughout North America. Included in the interview is discussion is the reformation and rebuilding of Autograph, the current tour, their upcoming UK live debut, Steve Lynch's guitar technique, on tour with Eddie Van Halen and what the future holds for this great band. Direct link to the interview: www.dbgeekshow.blogspot.ca/2014/05/hey-steve-lynch-can-i-get-your.html.
In episode 14 of One On One With Mitch Lafon. Mitch sits down Steel Panther's Michael Starr. The two discuss the band's recent release All You Can Eat, the concert experience, teaching kids to rock, Michael's love for Van Halen (compares David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar). Michael also explains why everything must die except metal and the importance of making albums. The episode of One On One With Mitch Lafon was co-hosted by Talking Metal's Mark Strigl.
WebLink: www.spreaker.com/user/talkingmetal/one-on-one-with-mitch-lafon-episode-14?autoplay=1.
In episode 13 of One On One With Mitch Lafon. Mitch sits down one-time Plasmatics and Crown Of Thorns bassist, Jean Beauvoir. The pair discuss Jean's formative years as a musician and how it lead to a falling out with his father. Jean also talks about his days in The Plasmatics, Crowns Of Thorns and assess the differences between being a writer, performer, producer and adapting to work with artists from different ilks such as The Ramones, Little Steven, Glenn Hughes, 'NSynch, John Waite and more. The discussion inevitably turns to the minutiae of working with KISS' on the band's Animalize and Asylum albums plus collaborations with Paul Stanley that remain unreleased to this day. Jean and Mitch also talk about Beauvoir's upcoming Beauvoir/Free project with Micki Free set for release at a later date. WebLink: www.spreaker.com/user/talkingmetal/one-on-one-with-mitch-lafon-episode-13.
Rich Davenport's Rock Show this week features exclusive interviews with Glenn Hughes, Michael Sweet, Eden's Curse, Eclipse and Touchstone, and is available now for streaming at this link: www.mixcloud.com/richdav1/rich-davenports-rock-show-glenn-hughes-michael-sweet-edens-curse-eclipse-touchstone-interviews/
In the first hour of the show, Glenn Hughes, the legendary Voice of Rock, talks about his new band California Breed, featuring former his Black Country Communion compadre Jason Bonham, alongside new discovery Andrew Watt. Glenn talks about finding Watt, writing and recording the album, and the future of the band, with 3 songs from the self-titled debut, released by Frontiers Records on May 19th. (Further info: www.californiabreed.com)
Also in part 1, Stryper frontman Michael Sweet discusses his new solo album "I'm Not Your Suicide", and his recently released autobiography "Honestly". Michael also gives the low down on Stryper's future plans, and also on a project he's working on with George Lynch (KXM, Lynch Mob, ex Dokken). You'll also hear two tracks from "I'm Not Your Suicide".
In part two, Eden's Curse members Paul Logue (bass) and Nikola Mijic (vocals) talk about their current Symphony of Sin UK tour, the reaction to the album of the same name, their new drummer John Clelland, and their future plans. Paul and Nikola also choose a song each from "Symphony of Sin".
Also in the second hour, Eclipse frontman Erik Martensson spills the beans on the band's new remixed, remastered reissue of their "Are You Ready To Rock" album, and outlines their plans for a new record.
Finally, Adam Hodgson, guitarist with UK Prog Rockers Touchstone, talks about the response to their current release "Oceans of Time", their forthcoming DVD, and their performance at Trinity Live, a concert in aid of Cancer Research (www.trinitylive.co.uk)
You can also listen on Sunday 18th May 15:00-17:00 GMT and Wednesday 21 May 22:00-00.00 GMT on www.totalrock.com, and on demand on hot new Texas rock and metal station KXZR Radio at www.kxzr.fm.
Friday, May 16, 2014
PRE-ORDER SOUND OF ETERNITY AND MRCD12 NOW:
You can now pre-order Visions & Dreams, the debut album from Spanish melodic hard rock band Sound Of Eternity, to be released June 16 via MelodicRock Records.
xx
Sound of Eternity is a female fronted melodic rock band formed in San Pedro Sula, Honduras in 2013 by Jean Funes (Guitars) and Beatriz Aranda, the lead vocals from Cordoba, Spain. Its background comes from the band "Codigo Eterno", which makes melodic rock in Spanish since 2004, and was formed by guitarist Jean Funes. The debut album "Visions & Dreams" is filled with passionate songs inspired by melodic rock acts like Def leppard, White Heart and Petra, also modern rock bands like Skillet, Anberlin and Fireflight.
It was mixed and mastered by Erik Martensson (W.E.T., Eclipse, Jimi Jamison), who plays bass and keyboards on the album. Also with Andreas Passmark (Narnia, Rob Rock, Work of Art) on bass, as a guest studio musician. The cover artwork is made by Carl Andre Beckston (Monowasp) and booklet design by Nello Dell'Omo from Art For Music. Sound Of Eternity is: Beatriz Aranda – Vocals and BGV, acoustic Guitars; Jean Funes – Electric Guitars; Rui Prado – Drums / Guest Studio Musicians: Erik Martensson – Bass, Keyboards, Background Vocals; Andreas Passmark – Bass.
Pre-orders are also open for MRCD12 today. This compilation is going to be a VERY limited public release (see news from Wednesday for details...). Full soundbytes are now available:
Sound Of Eternity (MRR021)
$15 + $5 airmail shipping worldwide. Will ship out starting mid-June (June 23 release).
MRCD12 - Better Days (MRCD12)
$15 + $5 airmail shipping worldwide. Will ship out mid-June (June 23 release).
OR
ORDER
BOTH CDs
xx
MRCD12 & Sound Of Eternity $33 (Includes Airmail Shipping)
NEW FRONTIERS SPOT: Frontiers Records April 2014 Releases Spot featuring: Winger, Sebastian Bach, Three Lions.
MR. BIG SINGER ANNOUNCES UK SOLO ACOUSTIC TOUR: Eric Martin – The Voice of Mr. Big will play nine dates across the U.K this December forming an exclusive UK tour that includes a date at The Underworld, London (Friday 12). The tour will begin with a Scotland Exclusive at Bannerman's, Edinburgh on Dec 4 and will then visit Newcastle, Grimsby, Bolton, Sheffield, Chester, London and Birmingham before closing in Swansea, Wales on Dec 14. Tickets on sale this Mon 19 May.
The Mr. Big front man will be performing a crowd pleasing mix of his solo material along with Mr. Big hits that fans all over the world have grown to love throughout their career.
U.K Solo Acoustic Tour Dates & Venues:
Thurs 4 Dec – Bannerman's Bar – Edinburgh
Fri 5 Dec – The Think Tank? – Newcastle
Sun 7 Dec – The Yardbirds - Grimsby
Mon 8 Dec – The Railway Club - Bolton
Tues 9 Dec – The Corporation – Sheffield
Thurs 11 Dec – The Live Rooms – Chester
Fri 12 Dec – The Underworld – London
Sat 13 Dec – The Oobleck – Birmingham
Sun 14 Dec – Static – Swansea
"My bags are packed and I'm ready to go; plane ticket to the UK…. check, Acoustic guitar…check, money for beer. Check, EM/MR. BIG fan's?" he said "Anywhere, everywhere, up and over, sideways, down… there's no place I'd rather Rock than with you in the UK."ť
In 1985 and 1987 Eric released "Eric Martin"ť and "I'm only fooling myself"ť solo efforts, which are lathered with Eric's signature soulful voice and candid lyrics.
In 1988-89, Eric would team up with Billy Sheehan, Pat Torpey and Paul Gilbert to form Mr. Big. They would enjoy enormous success with the release of 6 studio albums, numerous hit singles and 6 top-selling live cd's. All combined, worldwide sales top the 7 million mark. Eric's third solo album, "Somewhere in the middle"ť was written during the two-year hiatus from Mr. Big and released in 1998 in Asia and Europe. During the summer of 2001, Eric and the rest of the Mr. Big guys released their last effort, "Actual Size."ť In between promoting and preparing for Mr. Big's 2002 "Farewell Tour"ť, Eric continued to record songs for his fourth solo cd. He promised a return to his "rawk roots"ť and he definitely did so with the album, "I'm Goin' Sane"ť which gathered excellent critics and was released in Asia, Europe and The US in late 2002. After the success of a Japan tour, a European "Gods Festival"ť and a 23 city US tour, Eric decided to go back into the studio to record "Pure,"ť a EP that covers his hits in an unplugged and stripped acoustic form.
In early 2004 brought Eric back into the studio to record "Destroy All Monsters"ť which would be released in Japan, Europe, The US and the most recent, South America. The album sound is something Eric calls "Distorted Pop"ť with a focus on his rock roots. In 2008 Eric joined forces with an all-star group including Mark Slaughter, The Nelson Brothers, Jack Blades and Kelly Keagy to form the supergroup, Scrap Metal. Scrap Metal plays shows whenever each guy has some time off of their individual careers.
Mr. Big regrouped with all original members for a worldwide reunion tour in 2009. They had so much fun that they decided to release a new album. "What If"ť dropped in 2010 and reviewers raved about the 4 members creating their original sound with a current feel. The guys set out on another world tour and are currently writing for their next album.
Moving to more recent times, in 2012, one of the largest rock operas in the world contacted Eric to be featured on their new album. Avantasia is a German based rock opera born to Edguy front man, Tobias Sammet. Eric traveled for six months with Avantasia covering Asia, Europe, South America and Canada. Eric has been asked to join the band for their next tour starting at the infamous Waken open-air festival in front of 80,000 concert goers this summer. "Keep Calm & Unplug your TV set, your kids, the bullshit.. Don't let life get in the way, EM unplugged in the UK in December….See you then!"
Ticket prices regionally start from Ł10.00 (London Ł15.00). Please check with your local venue box office for further details or visit Eric's official website www.EricMartin.com.
BIG CELEBRATION FOR AXEL RUDI PELL:
July 11, 2014 will see Axel Rudi Pell celebrate his 25th Anniversary as a solo artist by performing a very special show at the prestigious Bang Your Head Festival, in Balingen, Germany.
Today Axel reveals all the secrets:
"This year we are celebrating the 25th Anniversary of my solo career, my first solo album Wild Obsession came out in 1989. Therefore, we will play a very special and unique Show at the Bang Your Head!!!ť Festival in Balingen, Germany, on July 11th to celebrate this and we will headline the festival on that day!
This will be no regular show by far! Of course we will play a lot of songs with the recent AXEL RUDI PELL line-up featuring Johnny Gioeli, Bobby Rondinelli, Ferdy Doernberg, Volker Krawczak and myself, but this will only be 1/3 of the complete show approx... As this year also sees the 30th Recording Anniversary of my former band Steeler (the first record was released in 1984), we will reunite in the original Line-Ups (Peter Burtz, Tom Eder, Jan Yildiral and both Bassplayers Roland Hag and Volker Krawczak) to perform a couple of songs for you. The reunion will only happen on that day and it will be an exclusive one-off!
Furthermore we will have a few ARP vintage members there and we're proud to announce that both Vocalists Rob Rock and Jeff Scott Soto among original Drummer Joerg Michael will enter the stage too to play a few older ARP tracks!
As this ain't enough … Lol…, I invited some other musical guests and friends to play a few cover tracks together and I'm really proud to announce the following guests in no particular order:
Graham Bonnet (ex- Rainbow, -MSG, -Alcatrazz), Joe Lynn Turner (ex- Rainbow, -Deep Purple, -Yngwie Malmsteen) Doogie White (ex- Rainbow, -Yngwie Malmsteen, Michael Schenker's Temple Of Rock) John Lawton (ex- Uriah Heep, -Lucifers Friend), Tony Carey (ex- Rainbow), Vinny Appice (ex- Black Sabbath, -Heaven & Hell, -DIO).
Be there at this very very special Show, which will be a lifetime event and will last for more than 3 hours. Have fun!"
Axel Rudi Pell released a new video for the song "Long Way To Go", taken from the latest chart album "Into The Storm". The video was directed by Tim Assmann: youtu.be/3tLsZa7wk6Q.
WebLinks: www.axel-rudi-pell.de / www.spv.de.
RUBICON CROSS UNVEIL NEW VIDEO FOR "BLEED WITH ME":
The majority of hard rock bands that manage to break through to the masses do so with a killer video clip. And Rubicon Cross has a worthy one on their hands with Bleed with Me, off their fast-rising self-titled album, of which a "deluxe edition" will be available for purchase on May 19th exclusively through BestBuy (which comes with a poster and bonus tracks): www.bestbuy.com/site/rubicon-cross-deluxe-only--best-buy-with-bonus-tracks-poster-cd.
Shot in Racine, WI, the band (which is comprised of CJ Snare/vocals, Chris Green/lead guitars, Jeff Lerman/second guitar, Simon Farmery/bass, and Robert Behnke/drums), had this to say about the video shoot - "I can't believe we did it! The "'Bleed with Me' video seemed jinxed at every turn. We had about five venues cancel on us before a friend [Brett Ihde - director of sales at Magnificent Events] came through with the abandoned warehouse less than two days before we started shooting. What we accomplished in 48 hours made us wonder how bands even use to spend $300,000 on a video. Thanks to friends and colleagues, we came up with a video we're incredibly proud of, and the help we received only reinforced the message of the song, when you have a band of brothers, anything is possible!"
And according to the band, other highlights of the shoot included:
--The amount of red brick dust in the factory coated every bit of our equipment.
--Behnke's drums were shot in a service elevator.
--The lighting was created by volunteers waving lights above the drums.
--Simon the bass player refused to go in a room with spiders so was shot in a hallway.
--The band shot a "Hello Cleveland" tribute to Spinal Tap that day, soon to be released.
--CJ's flight was so held up in traffic that the band had shot the drum AND bass shots already by the time he got there.
--Expecting nothing, Brett Ihde had laid on full catering including, sandwiches, cold meat buffet, chips, candy, large bottle of Jager, vodka, Jack, crate of Guinness and crate of lager (these got consumed during the process of the video).
--Band started drinking at 11am.
To see for yourself what all the buzz is about surrounding the "Bleed for Me" video, visit: www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFneEfoJbn8.
And also be sure to check out the making of the "Bleed with Me" video: youtu.be/YOVY3Vb64Bc.
For more info, visit: www.rubiconcross.net / www.facebook.com/rubiconcrossband.
SHAKRA NEED A VOCALIST:
Swiss rockers Shakra are without a vocalist. Tis from the band: John leaves Shakra! We are saddened by the fact that John has decided to leave us. We are losing an incredibly great singer and band member. With his loveable, quiet character, he has given us much pleasure during the past four years. We unfortunately have to accept his decision, and wish him well for his future! Now, we're forced to search for a new singer… You singers out there, get in touch with us if you wanna commence a new era! Thom, Thomas, Roger, Dominik.
Statement by John: "After many sleepless nights, I realized that SHAKRA is no longer priority No.1 in my life. With mixed feelings I remain today. I'm gonna miss my band members and the whole crew a lot, but I'm also looking forward to what's coming after my time as a Rock singer. If and how I'm gonna make music in the future has not yet been dediced."
WebLink: www.shakra.ch/en/news.html.
SUPER DUPER DVD DUE:
New York, NY (May 15, 2014)--Eagle Rock Entertainment is proud to announce the DVD, Blu-ray and Deluxe Limited Edition Boxed set release of the critically acclaimed Banger Films documentary Super Duper Alice Cooper on June 3 [MSRP $14.98 DVD, $19.98 Blu-ray, $69.98 Deluxe Edition].
Premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival this past April, Super Duper Alice Cooper is the first ever "doc opera" film, presented with a dizzying blend of documentary archive footage, animation, and rock opera. The film was also screened in theatres nationally in late April.
Super Duper Alice Cooper is the twisted tale of a teenage Dr. Jekyll whose rock n' roll Mr. Hyde almost kills him. It is the story of Vincent Furnier, a preacher's son who struck fear into the hearts of parents as Alice Cooper, the ultimate rock star of the bizarre. From the advent of Alice as front man for a group of Phoenix freaks in the 60's to the hazy decadence of celebrity in the 70s to his triumphant comeback as 80s glam metal godfather, we will watch as Alice and Vincent battle for each other's' souls. Alice's story is told not only by the man himself, but through exclusive interviews with members of the original Alice Cooper band, Elton John, Iggy Pop, John Lydon, and Dee Snider.
Super Duper Alice Cooper is the creation of Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn at Banger Films, producers of Iron Maiden: Flight 666 (2009 SXSW Audience Choice Winner) and Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage (2010 Grammy-nominated and Tribeca Audience Choice Winner), and much-lauded filmmaker Reginald Harkema, winner of the TIFF Special Jury Prize for his film Monkey Warfare.
The 13th edition of the Tribeca Film Festival will take place from April 16 to April 27 at locations around New York City. For more information on Super Duper Alice Cooper, please visit www.SuperDuperAliceCooper.com or like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/superduperalicecooper.
NEW SHOWCASE:
A new Showcase has been added to the site for the excellent debut Seven album, due out June 23 via Escape Music. Check it out.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
SOUND OF ETERNITY – NEW AUDIO PREVIEWS: MelodicRock Records is excited to release some teaser soundbytes for Spanish melodic hard rock band Sound Of Eternity. The band's debut album Visions & Dreams will be released one week later than origially announced (now June 23) to coincide with the release of MRCD12.
Sound of Eternity is a female fronted melodic rock band formed in San Pedro Sula, Honduras in 2013 by Jean Funes (Guitars) and Beatriz Aranda, the lead vocals from Cordoba, Spain. Its background comes from the band "Codigo Eterno", which makes melodic rock in Spanish since 2004, and was formed by guitarist Jean Funes. The debut album "Visions & Dreams" is filled with passionate songs inspired by melodic rock acts like Def leppard, White Heart and Petra, also modern rock bands like Skillet, Anberlin and Fireflight.
It was mixed and mastered by Erik Martensson (W.E.T., Eclipse, Jimi Jamison), who plays bass and keyboards on the album. Also with Andreas Passmark (Narnia, Rob Rock, Work of Art) on bass, as a guest studio musician. The cover artwork is made by Carl Andre Beckston (Monowasp) and booklet design by Nello Dell'Omo from Art For Music. Sound Of Eternity is: Beatriz Aranda – Vocals and BGV, acoustic Guitars; Jean Funes – Electric Guitars; Rui Prado – Drums / Guest Studio Musicians: Erik Martensson – Bass, Keyboards, Background Vocals; Andreas Passmark – Bass.
The track listing for Visions & Dreams is: 01) Visions & Dreams 02) Call To Action 03) Running To You 04) Broken Heart 05) Reason To Live 06) Alpha & Omega 07) My Saviour 08) Eternal Love 09) Forever 10) Universe.
MRCD12 ADDS ONE MORE TRACK:
The details of MRCD12 - Better Days (out June 23) was announced yesterday with a small error - there is one more track that needs to be added to the compilation, making it an 18 track, 78 minute release - 07) Fenrik Lane - Diamonds In The Waste
Pre-orders for both MRCD12 and Sound Of Eternity from tomorrow (Friday).
GUITAR LEGEND NEAL SCHÖN'S VIDEO "LOVE FINDS A WAY" HAS PREMIERE ON USATODAY.COM: Neal Schön fans can click here to check out the exclusive worldwide premiere of the video for "Love Finds A Way" on USAToday.com. The new video is taken from the forthcoming jazz and blues-inspired hard rock studio album, SO U. SO U features Schön along with bassist Marco Mendoza (Black Star Riders, Ted Nugent, Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy) and drummer Deen Castronovo (Journey, Ozzy Osbourne, Steve Vai, Hardline) splitting vocal and writing duties, with many of the tracks also co-written by Night Ranger/Damn Yankee's songwriter, singer and bassist Jack Blades. The track "Serenity," from the album is now firmly entrenched in the Top 5 at Classic Rock radio, coming in at #3 this week.
Best known as founding member and lead guitarist of Journey, Neal Schön has enjoyed a remarkable career as one of rock n' roll's top virtuosos, with a hand in creating some of the most popular songs of all time. Beginning his career more than 35 years ago in the San Francisco Bay area, the 15-year-old guitar prodigy left home to join Santana. Schön moved on in 1973 to form Journey. With Journey and other projects, he has earned 19 Top 40 singles and 25 platinum and gold albums, was awarded the prestigious "Legend Of Live Award" at the 2011 Billboard Touring Awards, received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005 and was individually inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall Of Fame in 2013. As the only member to record on all of Journey's albums, Schön continues with the band today in its latest incarnation.
For more information please visit: www.schonmusic.com.
BALANCE BACK ONCE AGAIN FOR SWEDEN SHOWS:
The Iconic Melodic Rock Band Balance is scheduled to regroup for a round of Live Shows based out of Sweden for the end of Summer 2014. This will kick off in the Swedish coastal town of Västervik (home of famous music festivals and the group ABBA), on Friday August 22, 2014. The next night, Balance will play in the university city of Linköping as part of its annual party. Both shows are sponsored by the Swedish national organization Sensus.
Based on a Youtube viewing of 4 young 10 yr. old Swedish girls called the SeaTeens singing a cover version of one of the band's well known songs "Is It Over" at the Hojrock Festival in Västervik the summer of 2013, Peppy Castro (original founding member), was so taken by the videos (www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-KoKSyDzdE and www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYxJZQmS1oQ) that it spawned the reunion of the band.
The Melodic Rock and AOR scene are made up of legendary albums and bands, which, as time goes by, become even more respected among the community of fans. Balance is exactly one of those bands, whose name and reputation, like good wine, has stood the test of time for decades. Original members, Peppy Castro, Bob Kulick and Doug Katsaros, will be reuniting for a round of shows in Europe in late summer 2014 based out of Sweden where it has all started again thanks to Sweden's own Sea Teens.
As proof of the many talents of the artists involved in Balance, all members went on to brilliant careers in music following the group's recording years. Grammy award winning Producer/Guitarist Bob Kulick's credits read like a who's who of heavy metal and rock bands, working in the studio, recording or producing or playing live with Meat Loaf, Kiss, Wasp, Paul Stanley Band, Lou Reed, John Cale, Michael Bolton, Dee Snider, Motorhead, Alice Cooper, Tim Curry, etc, etc…Doug Katsaros, Grammy and Emmy winner, sang & arranged for KISS, Rod Stewart, Cher, Bon Jovi, Sinéad O'Connor, Aerosmith and Georg "Jojje" Wadenius, among others, and he worked in several rockin' Broadway shows, including The Rocky Horror Show and Footloose. Peppy Castro, Emmy nominated and inducted into The Long Island Music Hall of Fame, is considered to be one of the early pioneers of the Psychedelic Garage band rock era. His 1st hit record began at the age of 17 as one of the founding fathers of the legendary rock group, "The Blues Magoos." His rock and roll status led him to a starring role in the original Broadway Production of Hair. He has written songs for and sang on records by Diana Ross, Kiss, Laura Branigan, Michael Bolton, Cher, Joan Jett, Ronnie Spector etc., and is even one of the producers of the hit off Broadway show (The Gong Show) in New York. All the members of Balance have had a long affiliation on many levels with KISS.
Balance will be joined on stage with two seasoned and respected musicians who hail from the depths of the Swedish rock brigade. Jonas Wikstrom on drums and Dan Larsson on bass will complete the line-up of Balance. For more info on the members of this incredible band and their astounding list of accomplishments, as well as their music, check these links: www.peppycastro.com / en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Kulick / www.themusicofyourdreams.com/Biography.html.
NIGHT BY NIGHT PUSH ALBUM BACK ONE MONTH:
News from Night By Night: "After some deliberation, we've decided to postpone the release date of our June 16th to July as to avoid clashes with the Download Festival and Sweden Rock. As you'll understand, it's really important for us to be able to get press and radio attention around the release of the album and we're concerned that the rock media won't have time for a (relatively) new band's debut amidst all the events of June.
Therefore, we've decided to change the date to July 11th (Mainland Europe) 14th (UK) and 15th (USA/Canada). We hope you understand - we've put the last 4 years into this album, so really want to ensure we get off to a great start with it!
However - we will still be giving you some NxN delights in June, with the release of a digital single and video on June 23rd (more news soon) and we will play a London release show on July 17th (again, more news on this ASAP).
Thank you for continuing to support us! Not long now! Ben, Hen, Jon, Tom and Damien."
INTRODUCING SCARLETT MOONLIGHT - I'VE CHASED THE RAIN: Scarlett Moonlight, the US-based melodic rock/AOR band, have just released their latest single, I've Chased The Rain, in digital format in most MP3 online stores (iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, etc). You can listen to the song here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7tYMwvWHlw.
This will be the first of a series of single releases that will happen every 2-3 months. Stay tuned to each release at: www.facebook.com/scarlettmoonlight.
Scarlett Moonlight, formerly known as Scarlett Shadow, is a Rhode Island based original Rock band in the style of Survivor, Foreigner, Whitesnake, Bon Jovi and Journey. They first came together when Michael Geiser, former bass player for Firebrand, met Fran Rodriguez, former keyboardist for the band Nexx. They then asked Mike Rodenbaugh, guitarist with Shotgun Still, to join on Guitar and Bob Myron on drums. They needed the right singer for the band, and Fran brought in Jacob Guajardo and the band Scarlett Moonlight was born.
Scarlett Moonlight has been in Michael's studio for the last year writing and recording their first group of 13 songs, which will be released one at a time as they are finished. In this day of digital music outlets and stores the need to release and entire album at one time is not as necessary as it once was. You can follow the band at: facebook.com/scarlettmoonlight / reverbnation.com/scarlettmoonlight / twitter.com/ScarlettShadow5.
XLRATOR MEDIA PLUGS INTO DUFF McKAGAN'S "IT'S SO EASY AND OTHER LIES":
Los Angeles (May 14, 2014) – XLrator Media announced today that it has acquired from Vision Films the North American distribution rights for former Guns N' Roses bassist Duff McKagan's autobiographical documentary, It's So Easy And Other Lies. The film is currently in production with financing provided by Scatena & Rosner Films. Based on the New York Times best-seller about McKagan's life, the film is written and directed by Christopher Duddy, produced by Daniel Zirilli, Duff McKagan, Christopher Duddy, and Steven G. Kaplan of Rainstorm Entertainment, and executive produced by Lise Romanoff, Gato Scatena, Jordan Rosner, Birgit Stein, Hans Stangl and Katherine Thomson.
The deal was negotiated by Vision Films' Managing Director/CEO, Worldwide Distribution Lise Romanoff, Steven G. Kaplan and XLrator Media CEO Barry Gordon. "Duff's remarkable life will be the ultimate 'insider' rock n' roll documentary chronicling Duff's rise as a punk-rock teen prodigy from Seattle, to the heights of super-stardom as a founding member of Guns N' Roses and Velvet Revolver, to the depths of substance abuse and addiction. All of these things have defined Duff and have led him to his current, and most rewarding, life chapter. Everyone will be moved by his story," said Gordon.
McKagan said: "I'm one of the fortunate ones who survived the trials of severe drug and alcohol addiction. I not only survived, but am blessed with seeing life from a whole different and brighter perspective. This film and stage show from the book, will hopefully expose some stark insight, knowledgeable commentary, and humor of this rock and roll life of mine."
This authorized documentary takes the audience on an incredible cinematic journey from a driven Seattle teenager's meager beginnings to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The man is Michael McKagan, better known to the world as "Duff." The band is Guns N' Roses. The band became the ultimate icons of sex, drugs and rock and roll, causing pandemonium in their wake, but the lifestyle caught up with Duff, leaving him close to death. Follow Duff's journey through original archival footage and interviews with many of the people who took this wild ride, including a constellation of rock stars that rose to fame alongside him, and the people who inspired him to overcome his addictions. Duff provides a voice that is as honest as it is indelibly his own as he takes viewers on his harrowing journey through the dark heart of one of the most notorious bands in rock and roll history and out the other side.
It's So Easy And Other Lies began production by capturing one of Duff's book readings at the Moore Theatre in Seattle. The film will contain rare archive footage from Marc Canter, who filmed all the early footage of Guns N' Roses behind the scenes and performances. "Vision Films is excited to be distributing "It's So Easy And Other Lies" globally," said Lise Romanoff, Managing Director and CEO of Worldwide Distribution. "The film is a one of a kind look into the life of one of the most iconic musicians in Rock history."
For more information on It's So Easy And Other Lies, visit: duff-itssoeasy.com.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
MRCD12 - TRACK LIST AND SELECT SAMPLES REVEALED:
The MelodicRock compilation series of CDs will be added to once again with the release of MRCD12 "Better Days", due for release June 23.
This compilation is just a little different from past releases. I am attempting to help raise some funds for the school my 3 boys attend, which is a Christian school. So I have compiled some of the best Christian themed songs, or songs of hope, that I could find from the present, future and past.
These range from some of the best known names in our genre to some brand new names that you are definitely going to hear more from in the coming months/years.
Some are active Christian artists, some are more subtle, but all have produced some wonderful songs that I'm very proud to combine into this one compilation. A thank you to all the artists that have supported this compilation.
MRCD12 is going to be a VERY limited public release. There's only 500 being manufactured ever and the majority of those are going direct to the school. That means that there is a VERY limited supply for MelodicRock.com fans, so when pre-orders come available THIS FRIDAY, get in early to ensure delivery.
The cover art tis time around is from the very talented Nello Dell'Omo from Art For Music, also responsible for the upcoming MRR title Sound Of Eternity (which will also be available for pre-order this Friday).
Speaking of pre-orders - ALL those that pre-ordered Loud Lion and The Radio Sun will have their CDs shipped out by Friday. I'm just packing them up now and some have already left! Lillian Axe pre-orders shipped last week. See showcases to order these titles!
01) 7th heaven - Sing
02) Mitch Malloy - You Can't Fool God
03) Dark Horse - Better Days
04) Stan Bush - The Ultimate
05) Jimi Jamison - As Is
06) Bjarne Langhoff - Jesus Through The Light
07) Fenrik Lane - Diamonds In The Waste
08) Journey - Anything Is Possible
09) Toto - Spiritual Man
10) John Elefante - On My Way To The Sun
11) Romeo's Daughter - Alive
12) Guardian - Price We Pay
13) Sumerlin - You Always Were
14) Anthony Gravley - Where I'm Supposed to Be
15) Jacob Guajardo - Time To Believe
16) Sound Of Eternity - Reason To Live
17) Ken Tamplin - Come Together
18) Jess & Joel Harnell - Mary Did You Know? (Previously Unreleased, Exclusive)
OUTLOUD PRESENT BRAND NEW MUSIC VIDEO FOR THEIR SINGLE "I WAS SO BLIND":
The Greek kings of melodic hard rock featuring Bob Katsionis (Firewind), American singer Chandler Mogel (Khaos, ex-Talon) and bassist Sverd (AmongRuins) announce the release of their brand new video for the single "I Was So Blind" from their forthcoming album Let's Get Serious, out on May 23rd on the AOR Heaven label.
The video was filmed at the historic Revenge of Rock club in Athens, Greece, and features brand new members Kostas Milonas (drums) and Jim Scordilis (guitar). Additionally the video stars gorgeous Greek model Angelina Stratigaki and was directed by the renown Greek rock videographer Themis of RawRec Productions. This video marks a long awaited return to form for Outloud, as they further go on to campaign sonically on their upcoming album.
You can view the entire video, right here, right now!
Keep a lookout for Let's Get Serious in stores in Europe and everywhere digitally on May 23. Facebook: /outloudtheband Twitter: @outloudtheband.
When Rick Springfield arrives just before 4 p.m. for a soundcheck at the Barnes and Noble in Manhattan's Union Square -- the location for a 7 o'clock acoustic performance and the first signing for his new book, "Magnificent Vibration" -- there are already several dozen fans in line. A good number of them arrived more than six hours earlier to claim their spot at the front of the queue.
In addition to their idol's latest title -- a required purchase for those who want Springfield's signature -- several fans are clutching the singer-actor's New York Timesbest-selling memoir, 2010's "Late, Late at Night;" a few are armed with vinyl albums, like 1981's "Working Class Dog" (which features the Grammy-winning single, "Jessie's Girl"); and a couple are wearing T-shirts advertising General Hospital, the soap that made him a star.
Despite this show of support, the first-time fiction writer is a ball of nerves in a back room. Even as he's realizing a lifelong dream of publishing a novel, Springfield is being paid an unwelcome visit by the antagonist from his autobiography: Mr. D, or his persistent depression.
"I've been depressed since puberty," says Springfield, wearing rectangular spectacles and black low-top Converse. "A lot of artists I know are depressed. That's one thing that writing ["Late, Late at Night"] showed me, that the good side of being depressed and having all these dark issues is that that's really where the songs come from -- where anything I write comes from."
Springfield is also nervous about how his novel will be received, explains Stacy Creamer, the former Touchstone publisher who bought and edited both of his books. (Creamer was let go by Touchstone last fall but begins her new job as VP, executive editor of Hachette Books in June.) Unlike most celebrities, Springfield penned both titles himself, without the help of a ghost writer. "We did the memoir and it did well," says Creamer, one of the few editors who bid on "Late, Late at Night," which now ranks among Rolling Stone's 25 Greatest Rock Memoirs of All Time. "So I encouraged him: 'You might think about writing fiction, because I really think you could write a novel.'"
Those words were music to Springfield's ears. "I've always wanted to," he says. "I wrote stories as a kid. The only decent grades I got at school was for my essays. I thought that would be my focus, but then I picked up the guitar, and music took over. I channeled it into songwriting."
Usually writers and editors work together on the shaping of a novel, so imagine Creamer's surprise when, one day in April of 2013, she received an email from Springfield out of the blue containing a finished manuscript. "I thought, In what world does this happen?" she recalls. "I thought we'd talk about it: What it'd be about, how he would structure it, then he'd write an outline. Rick had written the whole thing on his own in five months!"
Creamer read it overnight and says she "bought it right away." "I was able to make the case at the [publishing] house: "The memoir sold well, he's got a great social media platform," she says. "But the main thing is, I love the novel. I would have wanted to publish if it hadn't been by Rick Springfield."
Indeed, "Magnificent Vibration" is an ambitious, cinematic, darkly humorous first work that vaults backwards and forwards in time and is set in multiple locations. Centered around the main character's cellphone conversations with God -- or, as Springfield calls him/her, the Omnipotent Supreme Being (OSB, for short) -- it covers subjects as disparate as religion, masturbation, statutory rape, climate change and the Loch Ness monster, to name only a few.
Early reviews from book-industry insiders have been quite positive. Likening it to "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy," Booklist compares Springfield's writing style to "the clever, self-deprecating wit of Augusten Burroughs and Max Barry" and calls "Magnificent Vibration" "captivating, poignant and hilarious."
Still, Springfield seems quite out of sorts, even as he prepares to face a friendly crowd of faces that obviously see him as nothing less than a conquering hero. "There's good stuff about [glowing reviews]," he says, "like, 'That means I'm better than I thought I was.' Then it's 'No, wait. I'm not, really. It's just them talking.' Which is part of my drive, honestly. It's part of why I'm still doing what I'm doing. Somewhere in me I'm still searching for that golden moment that will suddenly make everything wonderful."
Springfield sat down with The Hollywood Reporter to talk about keeping his depression in check, his personal concept of God and spirituality and getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Read that interview at: www.billboard.com/articles/news/6084831/rick-springfield-opens-up-on-writing-religion-sex-suffering
THUNDER - A NEW STUDIO ALBUM: Thunder - A New Studio Album! "Yes peeps, the band has been talking about this for a wee while, and after what has been a rather silly amount of knob twiddling and string pulling, I'm happy to report that they've decided to record a new studio album. More details will follow when we get some, but I thought you'd like to know the decision is made. Thanks ~ The Thin & Rather Jubilant One."
A cadre of rockers has joined forces for a new album to help combat the issue of global child slavery. Coming as the Nigerian terrorist group Boko Haram is threatening to sell nearly 300 kidnapped schoolgirls into slavery, "Set Them Free" features songs by the Police and Sting covered by Aerosmith's Steven Tyler, Slash, Journey's Neal Schon and Arnel Pineda, Joe Bonamassa, Heart, Julian Lennon, Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Trapeze), Free alumnus Andy Fraser and EnVogue to support and raise funds for Rock Against Trafficking (R.A.T.), a new nonprofit group dedicated to raise awareness of and fight for an end to child slavery worldwide. The set is being curated and produced by R.A.T. founder Gary Stewart, and Schon tells Billboard that a September concert in the U.K. has also been broached. "This is for a very good cause," says Schon, who recorded the Police's "Synchronicity II" with Pineda for the project. "All kinds of artists are on this record. All these different versions of their songs will be on the album, and hopefully a live show that will probably be filmed for the benefit."
In a statement, R.A.T.'s Stewart says that, "27 million people are slaves today. 80 percent of trafficking victims are women and girls. Fifty percent are minors, and every year two million children are exploited in the global sex trade. We are joining together in a solid commitment through music to make a difference."
R.A.T.'s Director of Public Relations John Schayer adds, "It is our goal to unite people around the world to join us in this heartfelt effort to stop child trafficking and send the children home."
A release date, full track listing and other details are set to be announced in the near future.
THE DEAD DAISIES HEAD TO THE U.S. TO TOUR WITH LEGENDARY ROCK ACTS BAD COMPANY AND LYNYRD SKYNYRD:
The US summer is synonymous with bands going on the road and for The Dead Daisies they'll be spending it on tour with British classic rock giant Bad Company led by singer Paul Rodgers and American southern rock legends Lynyrd Skynyrd for dates in the United States starting July 10.
Following the release of their self-titled debut earlier this year, The Dead Daisies are proud to announce the Face I Love EP, out Friday 1 August. The eponymous single drops Friday 20 June along with an innovative interactive Facebook Application that will allow fans to be a part of the album cover art and music video. The Dead Daisies are happy to announce that they have signed and will release their new single and EP with local indie label Social Family Records in Australia and New Zealand. "This is the first group of songs that Diz, Marco and I have recorded with the Daisies," declares Fortus. "I haven't been this excited about a recording in a long, long time and think they really capture what the band has developed in to over the last year of touring. It's new music for classic rock fans!"
The touring lineup includes Jon Stevens (Noiseworks/Inxs) on vocals, David Lowy (Mink/Red Phoenix) on guitar, Richard Fortus (Guns N' Roses/Psychedelic Furs) on lead guitar, Marco Mendoza (Thin Lizzy/Whitesnake) on bass, Dizzy Reed (Guns N' Roses/Hookers & Blow) on keys and are pleased to announce the new addition of Brian Tichy (Whitesnake/Foreigner/Billy Idol) on drums.
"I am PSYCHED to hit, and I do mean, HIT!, the road, as well as every drum I can fit on the riser, this Summer with my buds in The Dead Daisies. We clicked the first time and we get to do it again with some of our favorite bands of all time! Bad Company with Simon Kirke! Lynyrd Skynyrd with good bud Michael Cartellone!! Yeah! My goal; groove hard, have fun, and swing for the cheap seats! I look forward to "A Dead Daisies Summer Of Rock, Volume, Ampitheaters, Power And Friends! See y'all there!!!" – Brian Tichy
Despite being a band that consists of seasoned rock veterans, The Dead Daisies celebrate technology and are heavily integrated into social media. On Monday, June 23, 2014 The Dead Daisies will launch the "Face I Love" App on their Facebook page and as well as a mobile app. Created to represent the iconic daisy skull logo of the band, Facebook users will be able to upload an image of the face they love to the App to create a photo-mosaic portrait of The Dead Daisies skull – and make it bloom. "Face I Love is dedicated to all MUSIC FANS around the world especially The Dead Daisies Fans because, without you, we don't get to do what we do," attests Stevens. "It's like having a massive extended family seeing your smiling faces at our shows and for us that makes it all worthwhile."
When the project comes to a close on July 27, the photo-mosaic portrait of The Dead Daisies' floral skull, made up of thousands of images of fans of the band, will be used as the artwork for EP, music video, single and other promotional items. The promotion is a true collaboration between the band and their fans, bringing real meaning to the title of the song, "Face I Love".
Marco Mendoza affirms, "'Face I Love,' was written for our fans and all the faces we see out in the audience when we play. I believe it was one of the first songs that we all collaborated on in the studio for the first time and BAM! Magic!"
This will be the bands second tour of the United States, The Dead Daisies were part of the massive 25-date Rockstar Energy Drink Uproar Festival through the US and Canada a long side Alice In Chains, & Jane's Addiction among others in August and September of 2013.
The Dead Daisies' self-titled debut album was released in the US and Canada through Caroline/Universal in August 2013 to exceptional reviews and was a featured iTunes release. Their first single "Lock 'N' Load", a track co-written by and featuring legendary guitarist Slash received airplay on radio networks across the U.S. including national airplay on SiriusXM satellite radio, both Alice Cooper's and Nikki Sixx's popular syndicated radio programs and was named Rolling Stone's Daily Download. The video for the single has been shown on over 20 outlets including play on Much Music, which beams into more than 30 million homes across North America. The song also stormed the UK radio airwaves and was placed on a number of key playlists including Team Rock, Kerrang Radio, and went to number 1 on Planet Rock Radio. It has also received spins on the UK's largest station BBC Radio 2. Their follow up second single "Washington" was equally successful and went top 20 on the US Rock radio chart (Mediabase).
This year is set to be a busy year ahead for The Dead Daisies with more dates around the world and the global release of a brand new EP and single in July.
The Dead Daisies Tour Dates (w/ Bad Company & Lynyrd Skynyrd)
July 10 – Bangor, ME – Darling's Waterfront Pavilion
July 12 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center
July 13 – Darien, NY – Darien Lake Performing Arts Center
July 15 – Raleigh, NC – Walnut Creek Amphitheater
July 16 – Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion
July 18 – Camden, NJ – Susquehanna Bank Center
July 19 – Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live
5TH AVENUE ARE BACK: 5th Avenue, the pioneers of Wacken, who had a hit with their cover version of Suzanne Vega´s "Luka" and split up before their career really got off the ground, have teamed up again and put together a brand new album, mixed by Dennis Ward (Tesla, Pink Cream 69, Unisonic), out May 12 via Ruff Affair Records.
After a 17 year break the Hamburg rock band 5th Avenue are returning to the stage. Along with their several earlier well known classics, the Wacken pioneers will be delighting us with some new sounds and proving just how much they love making music. Their new album It's been a long way…ť is out on 12.5.2014. The Hamburg band 5th Avenue formed in 1989 and built up a number of faithful fans in their home town within a very short space of time. They sold out Knust within 15 minutes of tickets going on sale, which even REM didn't manage and they were able to prove their reputation as a great live act with various club shows and performances at big music festivals. Back in 1989 5th Avenue was one of the first bands ever to play the very first Wacken Open Air – now the biggest metal festival in the world – and as they went down so well with the audience, they were invited to come back and perform at Wacken several times. Live performances included opening for Kathrina & the Wavesť, Little River Bandť, Plan Bť, Saxonť, Mama's Boysť and D.A.D.ť.
In 1994 and 1995 5th Avenue were voted the most popular Hamburg band in the local daily newspaper Hamburger Morgenpostť leaving such well-established German acts as Blumfeld and Marius-Muller Westernhagen trailing behind them.
In 1994 5th Avenue signed a record deal with Dream Circle Records/Polydor. The band went off to the States to record their debut album in the legendary Goodnight LA Studios, produced by Roger Summers, an absolute sensation for the still very young band from Hamburg. Their first single žLukať went down well straight away with several radio stations and climbed to top spots in many listeners charts.
Rapid success and the media hype surrounding their USA trip led to tension in the band, with some members leaving and being replaced. The album never got released. 1996 the band split up.
At the end of 2012 5th Avenue decided to finally return to the stage and reform with a new line up. Their first test gigs, among others in the famous Hamburg venue Kaiserkeller and at the Kieler Woche, proved that the band from Hamburg had just as much fun playing as ever and hadn't lost any of their power and presence on stage. Along with many other shows, the new line up gave a tremendous performance at the Hamburger Metal-Dayzť in 2013 and were cited by many as being the highlight of the evening.
Currently the band are hard at it in the studio rehearsing the songs from the lost tapes put down all those years ago in the States and laying down new tracks to finally perform to their many loyal and more recently acquired fans.
After 17 long years – nomen est omen - the new album from 5th Avenue It's Been A long Way will finally be released and presented live on a big festival tour in summer, with such higlights as the Wacken Open Air, Harley Days and Baltic Open Air.
WebLink: www.5thAvenue-Hamburg.de
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
ARENA ROCKERS NIGHT RANGER'S NEW TRACK HAS EXCLUSIVE WORLDWIDE PREMIERE ON MELODICROCK.COM TODAY :
(New York, NY) – Night Ranger fans around the globe check out the exclusive worldwide premiere of the new track "I'm Coming Home" on MelodicRock.com. The hook-laden song, featuring lead vocals by drummer Kelly Keagy, is taken from the band's forthcoming album, High Road.
Due out on June 10 in North America via label home Frontiers Records, High Road is produced by the band itself and will be available in two formats – a standard CD version and a deluxe version which includes a bonus track and a DVD featuring a background look at the making of the album along with video clips. High Road can be pre-ordered now at Amazon as the standard and deluxe version below. For fans who order the album via iTunes, the title track "High Road" and "I'm Coming Home" are available as 'instant grat' tracks.
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In other Night Ranger news, the band recently delighted huge audiences at both the M3 Festival in Columbia, MD and the Frontiers Rock Festival in Milan, Italy. Look for them to tour North America this summer in support of High Road. In the meantime, the first single from the album, also entitled High Road, has just gone for adds at radio. Singer/bassist/songwriter Jack Blades' craftsmanship as a songwriter is also featured on Journey guitarist Neal Schon's upcoming album, So U, due out in North America on May 19.
Night Ranger's legendary hits "Sister Christian," "(You Can Still) Rock in America," and "Don't Tell Me You Love Me" are songs that have each significantly impacted popular culture and expanded their ever-growing fanbase since the band's inception thirty years ago. Over the years, the band's music has made notable contributions to and been featured in many different areas of media and popular culture. Night Ranger's songs can be heard in the Rock Band and Guitar Hero video games; Rock of Ages hit Broadway musical and film; the Oscar-nominated film Boogie Nights; Fox's hit TV Show American Dad; JBL's "Hear The Truth" campaign; and many more! To date, Night Ranger has sold 17 million units worldwide and boasts several platinum- and gold-certified albums. Night Ranger is Jack Blades (bass guitar, vocals), Kelly Keagy (drums, vocals), Brad Gillis (lead & rhythm guitars), Joel Hoekstra (lead & rhythm guitars) and Eric Levy (keyboards).
For more information please visit: www.nightranger.com / www.frontiers.it.
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ICONIC ROCK BAND CHICAGO TO RELEASE 36th ALBUM "NOW" IN JULY VIA FRONTIERS: Chicagoone of the longest running, successful and iconic rock bands in American musical historyis set to release their 36th album "Now" - Chicago XXXVI in Europe on July 4 and in the U.S. July 8 via Frontiers Records. Featuring 11 brand-new, original songs from the group known for their groundbreaking rock-with-horns sound, "Now" Chicago XXXVI was written and recorded on the road during the band's rigorous, never-ending tour schedule, playing for fans who have supported them since they formed in 1967.
Putting aside an awesome accumulation of honors, awards, accomplishments, numbers and peer respect, this remarkable group of talented musicians continues to make history with a new recording process geared towards musical excellence, doing the business of music "NOW," while reckoning with the logistical realities of a world-wide touring band. Produced by Chicagofounding members Robert Lamm (keyboard, guitars, vocals), Lee Loughnane (trumpet, guitar, percussion, vocals), James Pankow (trombone, percussion, keyboards, vocals), Walter Parazaider (woodwinds, backing vocals) along with Jason Scheff (bass, vocals), Tris Imboden (drums, percussion), Keith Howland (guitars, vocals), Lou Pardini (keyboards, vocals) and Walfredo Reyes, Jr., (percussion)the album was recorded on "the Rig," the band's customized mobile recording system. Each songwriter oversaw the production of their compositions, and the band collaborated as a cohesive unit throughout the writing and recording process.
Pre-orders for "Now" Chicago XXXVI are available on the band's website here: chicago-now.com/ and will also be available soon via Amazon and iTunes.
Of the new album and the band's continued growth and evolution, Lamm says, "There's certainly more context, and there's certainly more musical ability, and perception rather than youthful naiveté that we had when we started." Loughnane says, "Thank goodness, we have 46 years of track record behind us. We're just trying to grow the legacy even more." The bandas alwayswill tour heavily in 2014 to support the new album. "Outside of being creative and making new music, going out, doing even better shows, I think we've put together a show right now that's the best one we've ever had out there, which, as long as that curve is going up, I don't think we have to sit back and re-assess things," says Parazaider. Check out the album's EPK:
Originally formed as the Chicago Transit Authority in 1967, the band found almost immediate success and have become a bona fide institution of American music. Their signature sound of solid rock songs augmented by the best horns in the business has endeared them to several generations of music fans. Hit singles include "If You Leave Me Now," "Saturday In The Park," "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is," "Feelin' Stronger Every Day," "25 or 6 to 4," "Beginnings," "I'm A Man," "Hard To Say I'm Sorry," "(I've Been) Searching So Long," "Look Away," "Just You And Me" and "Old Days," among others. The band has accumulated a total of 47 gold and platinum records awards.
"47 years later and to think that people - young people especially, but all ages, are actually still discovering Chicago's music!," says Pankow. "People have become fed up with all of the robotic programmed junk and they come to our shows to hear and witness the real thing - gifted veteran musicians with serious chops - no smoke and mirrors or lip-syncing. Wow, what a concept!"
Here's the "Now" Chicago XXXVI track listing: Now, More Will Be Revealed, America, Crazy Happy, Free At Last, Love Lives On, Something's Coming I Know, Watching All The Colors, Nice Girl, Naked In The Garden of Allah, Another Trippy Day.
Chicago is on the road now and will tour throughout the rest of the year. They will be in the U.S. through early June, and kick off a European tour June 26 in Paris, France before hitting Italy, Spain, Germany, Austria and Norway. They return to the U.S for an August 1 date at Los Angeles' Greek Theatre and have New York-area shows August 16 at PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ and August 17 at Jones Beach in Wantagh, NY. Tour dates can be found here: www.chicagotheband.com/tour.html.
TESLA NEW DIGITAL SINGLE "SO DIVINE..." AVAILABLE NOW: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the digital release of US multi-platinum selling Hard Rock act Tesla all new single titled "So Divine...". The song is lifted off the forthcoming album "Simplicity" which will be released on Frontiers in Europe on June 6.
Simplicity will be the band's seventh studio full length LP and fifteenth release overall. The new effort will be the follow-up to "Forever More", which was released in October 2008 and featured the single "I Wanna Live."
The new single is available for download and streaming on all digital outlets including iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Deezer etc.
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THREE LIONS "HOLD ME DOWN" LYRIC VIDEO:
"Three Lions" is the sensational eponymously titled debut album from this new British 3 piece rock band. The band consists of Vinny Burns (Dare, Ten, Asia) on guitar, Greg Morgan (Dare, Ten) on drums and introduces Nigel Bailey on vocals and bass guitar. Three Lions' debut features 12 brand new tracks, written by the band and also in collaboration with producer Alessandro Del Vecchio on 2 songs. Recorded at The Viper Room, Coil Tap Studios in the UK and Ivory Tears Studio in Milan, this album combines massive guitar riffs and great hooks alongside driving rhythms and powerful, yet emotional vocals.
The band was formed when Vinny, Greg and Nigel were introduced by Serafino and Alessandro at Firefest in October 2012. The guys hit it off straight away and immediately set about writing new material for the album. The first single, Trouble In A Red Dress, captures the energy of the band and is a classic foot stomping rock song with an infectious groove, soaring guitars and a chorus you have to sing along with.
The album is made up of songs that were written without an agenda. "We set out to write good songs, the only criteria was that all of us liked them" said Nigel, "Working with Vinny and Greg has been a blast and we were all determined to make the best album possible and are immensely proud of the songs that have made it onto the final record". From the eastern influenced Kathmandu, to the driving power of Hellfire Highway and Twisted Soul, to the heartfelt ballads Made For One Another and Don't Let Me Fall. This album delivers passionate performances from the guys. Vinny's trademark guitar work is, as you would expect, filled with emotion and feel. "I wanted to start with a blank canvas for the guitars" says Vinny. "This album allowed me to show a different side to my playing whilst retaining the familiar sound and feel fans of Dare and Ten will recognise". "Working with Vinny again has been great fun and Nigel brings something new to the table" said Greg. "This is definitely a record made by a band, not just a studio project, and that really comes across in the songs. We had an instant connection as musicians but also as people and we cannot wait to get out and perform these songs live soon".
A BRAND ENW BRIAN HOWE CUT:
A new Brian Howe song titled Cut is available for advance purchase now via bandcamp. The track is from the singer's upcoming solo album, the funds from the sale of the single go towards the recording effort.
MITCH LAFON TALKS TO GLENN HUGHES:
In Episode 11 of One On One With Mitch Lafon, Mitch welcomes singer Glenn Hughes who talks about his new band and album, California Breed. The band was formed from the ashes of Hughes' previous outfit Black Country Communion and Glenn addresses the issues faced by that band and why they couldn't tour more often. Glenn also talks about joining forces with upcoming guitarist, Andrew Watt, and his continued work with Jason Bonham. The chat ends with Glenn discussing his need to make and perform new music as well as his involvement with animal shelters. Joining Mitch as co-host this episode is Mark Strigl of the Talking Metal Podcast. www.spreaker.com/user/talkingmetal/one-on-one-with-mitch-lafon-episode-11.
For more about California Breed visit: www.californiabreed.com.
This Episode of One On One With Mitch Lafon is brought to you by the Heavy Montreal Festival taking place August 9th and 10th at Parc Jean Drapeau in Montreal (Quebec) Canada and this year Features performances by Metallica, Slayer, The Offspring, Lamb of God, Twisted Sister and many more! Listen to the One On One With Mitch Lafon Podcast on iTunes & Spreaker. www.twitter.com/1On1WithMitch / www.facebook.com/OneOnOneMitchLafon.
Monday, May 12, 2014
TWO CROWNS UNITE ONCE AGAIN: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of Beauvoir / Free for the release of a brand new album during 2015. Beauvoir / Free sees a new cooperation between famed singer, songwriter and producer Jean Beauvoir (ex-Plasmatics, Voodoo X and collaborator of KISS, Ramones and Little Steven among others) and guitarist Micki Free (ex-Shalamar). The pair was responsible for penning the milestone debut Crown Of Thorns album which was originally signed by Interscope Records and later released independently throughout Europe and Asia in 1994.
With a tour supporting Bon Jovi and Van Halen for three months throughout all of Europe, playing to over a million people and with raving audience response. Crown of Thorns soon become one of the biggest Hard Rock bands to emerge in the second half of the 90's. Free however had already left the band by the time in which Crown of Thorns second album was released and was replaced by Tommy Lafferty. Free and Beauvoir are now reuniting with a promise to release their most exciting collaboration ever. Beauvoir says: "I truly look forward to this reunion and collaborating with Micki once again! Stay tuned cause It will rock!!!"
The pair played Hard Rock Calling UK and 2 shows in Scandinavia during April and look forward to more shows in the coming months. Frontiers plans to release the album in early 2015.
URIAH HEEP TO RELEASE DIGITALLY THE BRAND NEW SINGLE "ONE MINUTE" TODAY: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the digital release of Uriah Heep first single "One Minute" today. The new single is available from today for download (iTunes, Amazon etc) and legal streaming (Spotify, Deezer, etc) on all digital platforms across the world! The new single is also available in a special version with German lyrics and it is called Eine Minute.
The digital single is taken from the forthcoming album entitled Outsider which is planned for release on June 6 in Europe, June 9 in the UK and June 10 in North America on Frontiers. "Outsider" is Uriah Heep's 24th studio album which follows the success of "Into the Wild" and extensive worldwide touring.
Uriah Heep debuted in 1970 with the release of one of Hard Rock music's milestones "Very 'eavy... Very 'umble" and have since sold in excess of 40 million albums worldwide. They constantly tour in the world, playing in over 56 countries and the band's live set list features hits from the 70s and 80s, such as "The Wizard", "Free 'n Easy", "Sunrise" and their monster hits "Easy Livin'", "July Morning" and "Lady in Black", as well as new material.
Uriah Heep play up to 125 shows a year to a total audience of 500,000 people and a full tour in support of the new release has been already announced.
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DOUG ALDRICH DEPARTS WHITESNAKE:
Guitarist Doug Aldrich has posted this statement on his departure from Whitesnake:
"Well I guess news that I have left Whitesnake was leaked... I planned and hoped DC and I could release a joint statement. We will as soon as possible but everything happened so fast that we aren't ready. Firstly, Thanks to my big bro David for such a killer run together!! So many songs, tours, projects, always inspiring and pushing each other! Mostly I was to thank the loyal WS Choir and fans around the world. You have been so amazing to me and it's been an honor to play for you with WS.
I love you guys and I'll see you all again. Thank you so very much for your unending support. Also, not sure how or where the info started about a Solo Career but this is not true or correct information. I have no plans at this time to go solo :)
I'm just not in the Whitesnake/David Coverdale band anymore. I'll let you guys know what I'm doing ASAP but for now please know I very much appreciate your support and will hopefully do a statement with My Brutal Brother DC shortly.
Big love for the Aldrich clan."
REDLINE TO HEADLINE AT THE ISLE OF MAN TT RACES THIS YEAR!: Redline are proud to announce that they have been invited by the official IOM TT organisers to play at the prestigious Villa Marina Royal Hall on Thursday 5th June. This is the first time Redline will have played at the TT Races and are honoured to be playing their song 'King Of The Mountain', which has now become an anthem for the event, to all the TT fans! Redline wrote the song as a tribute to the TT Races and have been making the pilgrimage to the event themselves since 2000, so for the band this really is a dream come true!
Ticket information at: villagaiety.ticketsolve.com/shows/873514301/events?show_id%5B0%5D=873514301.
R.I.P. GRAPHIC ARTIST DIRK ILLING:
It is with deep regret and sadness that we inform all Black Majesty fans that our artist and good friend Dirk Illing, who created all art for our album covers/designs has suddenly passed away. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his immediate family and friends. We are truly saddened by this news. May he Rest In Peace. ~ Black Majesty - Melbourne, Australia. www.blackmajesty.com
On the new album: "We're working on our new album, it's really strong. We haven't made one in ten years. Ironically through a lawsuit we go forced back into doing it, but once we got into the process we realized, "We're going to make a really good one." We're making one for the band. We're not trying to follow a trend or go all EDM or have rap guys do our stuff, we're going to do a Toto record, our classic sound. We wrote some really good songs.."
On the growing success of the Live In Poland DVD: "We didn't hype this thing, but all of a sudden it came out and just took off, it was like, "What the fuck, are you kidding me?" This is fantastic for a bunch of old shits like us."
Advice for young artists: "Learn how to f**king play and sing. The big lie to a young person is they go into a studio and maybe they have some raw talent but it's very rough. Maybe they've got a pretty face. But all of a sudden, they achieve fame and then they realize it's the Milli Vanilli thing, they can't really pull it off. So once you get found out, your career's over. If you can really play and really sing and really write material, you'll have a long career, if you're really good and you can take punch after punch..."
POD BRIEFS:
In episode 10 of One On One With Mitch Lafon. Mitch is joined by co-host Russ Dwarf of the Killer Dwarfs. The two discuss bands that have successfully and unsuccessfully changed lead singers including Skid Row, Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, Van Halen, Iron Maiden, Journey, Foreigner and more. Plus, Russ talks about whether or not he could be replaced in his band. The two are joined by Tom Gimbel and Jeff Pilson of Foreigner who discuss their singer (Kelly Hansen) as well as their upcoming The Soundtrack Of Summer tour and album with Styx and Don Felder.
Interview link: www.spreaker.com/user/talkingmetal/one-on-one-with-mitch-lafon-episode-10_2?autoplay=1.
This week on the Double Stop Podcast, Jason Bieler explains how he got started as a guitar player, and his first big break playing in Jeff Scott Soto's Talisman. He covers how Saigon Kick got their start, their early success with Love Is On The Wayť (the ballad that killed hair metal), his move to lead vocalist, his unexpected success in Indonesia, Super TransAtlantic, Bieler Bros Records, the reunion with Saigon Kick, and his new project Owl Stretching. thedoublestop.com/ep-14-jason-bieler-saigon-kick/
ARTIST/PRODUCER BIG SWEDE TO RELEASE ROCK SINGLE 'ROCK STAR':
Los Angeles, CA, May 9th, 2014 – The Swedish born producer/artist known as Big Swede is releasing his new rock single, Rock Star, on May 15, 2014. The release includes a remix and features Johnny Griparic (Slash's Snakepit), Patrick Stone (Adler's Appetite) and Howie Simon (Alcatrazz). "I have used these guys on a lot of tracks and now was the time to release a rock track. I have been wanting to do this for a while," says Big Swede.
The release comes with an original version and a remix. "The original version is a straight up rocker. I was going for hi-energy with a live band feel. Then I started to chop up the guitar riff and play around with the vocals. That became the remix, which also has a halftime feel in certain sections and a short breakdown," continues Big Swede.
Big Swede released three solo records last year, "Electronic Core District Pt.1-3" and one collaboration, "There Is Still Time". "It was nice to do some guitar based rock as a lot of my stuff lately has been electronic, in a soundtrack vein. I like to switch between different styles and there is definitely more Big Swede rock coming soon," continues Big Swede. Big Swede's credits include Mercedes Benz "Super Service" Commercial feat. Roger Federer, NCIS, The Mentalist, CSI: Miami, Alphas, 90210, Lie To Me, Keeping Up With The Kardashians, Punk'd, Real World, tour introduction music for Van Halen, and drum samples for KISS and Slash. Collaborations include Reeves Gabrels (The Cure, David Bowie), Paul Ill (James Blunt, Christina Aguilera) and Greg Hampton (Alice Cooper, Lita Ford).
Itunes Preview: itunes.apple.com/us/album/rock-star-feat.-patrick-stone/id872746841 / www.bigswedestudios.com.
WIN A TRIP TO MELODICROCK FEST 4
FROM ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD!
MelodicRock.com relies on the occasional input of its readers to help maintain the free service offered to anyone that lives and breathes great rock music. The support of readers is vital.
After the fantastic reaction to last year's WIN A TRIP TO MRF3, we are doing it all over again for MRF4 in Chicago this October.
There are two donation price points - $25 and $50.
Everyone that donates will have a chance to win a trip to MRF4 - from anywhere in the world!
WIN TRIP TO MRF4 $25 Donation
WIN TRIP TO MRF4 $50 Donation
One lucky donator will be flown all the way from ANYWHERE in the world to MelodicRock Fest 4 and given 3 night's accommodation at the event hotel and a PLATINUM VIP Pass for the whole weekend! The Platinum VIP Pass is worth $1495 on it's own! Full details at: www.melodicrockfest.com.
in 2013 we flew Derek in from Arizona and Pablo in from Brazil! Both guys had such a blast that they are coming back for MRF4 this year. So if there is no other way you can make the show - here's your chance!
There are a few terms and conditions for both prizes, please read them here.
PLUS - there are is a bonus "thank you" for everyone that donates. A discount at MelodicRockDirect and access to the MRX Members Area!
The full details are:
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– 1 chance to win
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– 2 chances to win
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You can donate multiple times to enhance your chances - all donations are very much appreciated.
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Friday, May 09, 2014
THE EMPTY HEARTS READY THE RELEASE OF THEIR EPONYMOUS DEBUT ALBUM: The Empty Hearts, a new band featuring members of The Cars, Blondie, The Romantics and The Chesterfield Kings, have signed to 429 Records which will release their eponymous debut album August 5 worldwide. The band, consisting of four iconic players and musical peers, features Elliot Easton on lead guitar, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Clem Burke on drums, Wally Palmar on vocals and guitar and Andy Babiuk on bass. Co-produced by the band and Ed Stasium,The Empty Hearts is a raucous collection of tunes with each player's rock 'n' roll stripes on display- a bracing sound shaped by influences which span decades and include '50's American roots rock 'n' roll, 60's British invasion and 70's garage-punk.The album was recorded at Fab Gear Studios in Rochester, NY and also includes the Faces' Hall of Fame keyboardist Ian McLagan on Hammond organ and Wurlitzer. The Empty Hearts will be released worldwide on 429 Records August 5. The band will tour the U.S. this fall. Dates TBD.
The Empty Hearts (a name coined by Little Steven from his secret list of unused band names), is a band who sound like musical cohorts-all came of age in the 70's and 80's music scenes and play by a DIY punk rock code of ethics. They are all connected having come together as a band of friends-Babiuk called up Palmar looking to start something new and shortly thereafter, Palmar connected with Burke who then brought in Easton. A self-proclaimed band of "rock and roll lifers", the chemistry clicked immediately.
Says Clem Burke: "Those common influences are what brought us together. We're survivors and lifers of rock 'n' roll. We take from everything that's come before musically. A lot of people have never heard or seen a band like this. There's a freshness to it, at the same time as it's a recollection of the past."
The Empty Hearts Track Listing: 90 Miles An Hour Down A Dead End Street, I Don't Want Your Love (If You Don't Want Me), (I See) No Way Out, Fill An Empty Heart, Soul Deep, Loud And Clear, Perfect World, I Found You Again, Just A Little Too Hard, Drop Me Off At Home, Jealousy, Meet Me 'Round The Corner.
For more information visit: www.429records.com . To pre-order The Empty Hearts visit: smarturl.it/TheEmptyHearts / theemptyhearts.com
CAPTAIN BLACK BEARD NEW BAD GIRL VIDEO: Captain Black Beard releases the second song/video from their new album "Before Plastic" - out May 23rd via Dead End Exit Records. The song is called "Bad Girl" and can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=hO8bQg1D66Y.
"Before Plastic" has already been getting great reviews with Sweden Rock Magazine saying "Ill-mannered and charming hitseeking rock like it was made by Kiss, Billy Idol and Pat Benatar - together and in their prime." Former Kiss and current Grand Funk Railroad guitarist Bruce Kulick says "Captain Black Beard have guts and glory written all over them. Their melodic vocals and guitars, make them stand out above the rest in the genre of AOR Rock".
You can pre-order the album on Amazon and don't forget to stop by the bands new website at www.captainblackbeard.net / www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00J9K639E/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=B00J9K639E&linkCode=as2&tag=uberoc-21.
ANOTHER VANA TO CHECK OUT:
There's a new Vana in the game - the son of Mecca's Joe Vana, Joey Vana has a new band together - Eighty Six Happiness - and their debut video can be checked out below. Follow the band at: www.facebook.com/eightysixhapiness / soundcloud.com/eighty-six-happiness.
Carousel Vertigo play the best music you haven't heard yet - but already love. An unapologetic affection for old-school hard rock is audible on the band's infectious and brilliant new single, '3rd Degree'. www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Y70ZH-pqk0#t=20.
MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with 2 more new features:
- Bryan Adams - Live, California (1993)
- Feature Album - Silent Running - Walk On Fire (1987) Join MRX Now.
Thursday, May 08, 2014
MRR: SOUND OF ETERNITY DEBUT OUT IN JUNE: MelodicRock Records is excited to announce the signing of new Spanish melodic hard rock band Sound Of Eternity. Their debut album Visions & Dreams will be released June 16.
Sound of Eternity is a female fronted melodic rock band formed in San Pedro Sula, Honduras in 2013 by Jean Funes (Guitars) and Beatriz Aranda, the lead vocals from Cordoba, Spain. Its background comes from the band "Codigo Eterno", which makes melodic rock in Spanish since 2004, and was formed by guitarist Jean Funes. The debut album "Visions & Dreams" is filled with passionate songs inspired by melodic rock acts like Def leppard, White Heart and Petra, also modern rock bands like Skillet, Anberlin and Fireflight.
It was mixed and mastered by Erik Martensson (W.E.T., Eclipse, Jimi Jamison), who plays bass and keyboards on the album. Also with Andreas Passmark (Narnia, Rob Rock, Work of Art) on bass, as a guest studio musician. The cover artwork is made by Carl Andre Beckston (Monowasp) and booklet design by Nello Dell'Omo from Art For Music. Sound Of Eternity is: Beatriz Aranda – Vocals and BGV, acoustic Guitars; Jean Funes – Electric Guitars; Rui Prado – Drums / Guest Studio Musicians: Erik Martensson – Bass, Keyboards, Background Vocals; Andreas Passmark – Bass.
xx
The track listing for Visions & Dreams is: 01) Visions & Dreams 02) Call To Action 03) Running To You 04) Broken Heart 05) Reason To Live 06) Alpha & Omega 07) My Saviour 08) Eternal Love 09) Forever 10) Universe.
Making it's workdwide debut today is the stream of the track Call To Action. More soundbytes from this fantastic release soon.
WINGER STORM THE US CHARTS THIS WEEK WITH LATEST RELEASE BETTER DAYS COMIN':
Band's Latest Critically Acclaimed Album Debuts at #21 on the Top Current Rock Albums Chart and #85 on the Billboard Top 200
Winger have shown they are still a force to be reckoned with thanks to their latest release, Better Days Comin'. The album debuted at #21 on the Top Current Rock Albums chart and #85 on the Billboard Top 200 selling over 3600 copies this week. The album even hit #6 when it was released on the iTunes Top Rock Album chart. Better Days Comin' marks the first time that Winger has debuted on the Billboard Top 200 since their 1993 release, Pull. The latest album is available via iTunes at smarturl.it/WingerDeluxe or at Amazon in a standard (smarturl.it/WNGR_AmzCD) and deluxe configuration (smarturl.it/WNGR_AmzDLX). The deluxe edition comes in a glossy digipak and includes the bonus track "Another Beautiful Day" and a DVD including a Making of the Album documentary as well as the videos for "Rat Race" and title track "Better Days Comin'." Fans can also order exclusive bundles, autographed items and more from the band's web store at bit.ly/1hJLPYw. Winger and Better Days Comin' has been receiving critical acclaim from a variety of outlets and people with places MetalSucks.com exclaiming, "Now the third of Winger's post-2k albums is out today, titled Better Days Comin' (heh heh) and it rips!" and Liam Wilson of the Dillinger Escape Plan reviewing on TheTalkhouse, "…we find Winger sticking to their strengths: writing genuinely 'classic' in the truest sense of the word rock gems at a time when it couldn't be more unhip to do so."
Winger recently released a video for the song "Tin Soldier" which debuted on GuitarWorld.com and can be seen here: youtu.be/20xl9x8BhUM. Jason Green and Dan Hubp, who also designed the first Winger album cover and logo, directed the video. The new song showcases Winger building on their previous album's tendency towards progressive rock, delivering an intricate, musical landscape that basks in interesting harmonic, melodic components, which weave through three different time signatures. Winger has also released videos for the debut single, "Rat Race" as well as the album opener "Midnight Driver of a Love Machine." The video for "Rat Race" can be seen at: youtu.be/Jp57jqoKJ7E and "Midnight Driver of a Love Machine" can be seen at youtu.be/4tOzsssTtDU.
Winger is currently on tour in support of their latest release and all tour dates can be found on their website, www.wingertheband.com.
Winger formed in the late 1980's and soared to immediate success with their 1988 self-titled release. The album spawned the hit singles "Seventeen" and "Headed For A Heartbreak" and achieved platinum sales status. Winger also stayed on the Billboard Top 200 chart for over 60 weeks where it peaked at #21. Their next album, In The Heart Of The Young, also achieved platinum status behind the singles "Can't Get Enuff" and "Miles Away." The change in musical climate of the mid-90's, compounded with unprovoked ridicule on MTV's popular Beavis and Butthead, led the band to go on hiatus in 1994. In 2001, the band reunited and have not looked back since. Winger has made a name for themselves with relentless touring, while winning back fans and critics alike because of their exceptional musicianship, Kip Winger's powerful vocals and the band's incredible songwriting. Winger is comprised of Kip Winger on vocals/bass, Reb Beach on guitar, John Roth on guitar and Rod Morgenstein on drums.
A PERFECT DAY ANNOUNCE A NEW LINE-UP:
This is one of those things we wouldn't want to say. Roberto Tiranti won't be the singer on the next A Perfect Day album.
Roberto: "Sometimes it happens that paths separate, it happened before in our lives and we always faced these changes peacefully, without hard feelings. Andrea, a brother to me, knows that this is a very important moment for me and that my first solo work takes priority over all. I'm sure A Perfect Day will keep on proving how good and important their music is and I wish all the best to my successor! A huge hug also to my solid, reliable and talented drummer friend Alessandro Bissa."
Andrea and Alessandro: "The friendship between Roberto and us comes before anything else, that's why we support this hard decision and we wish him a successful, rosy future. Good luck mate, thanks for making this project so important with your amazing voice, your heart and your soul. Roberto's voice will accompany us one more time, in a song featured in the new album. We owe you this, we owe it to ourselves. Keep on following us for updates. What's in our future? We've already chosen the new singer and we're sure you'll like him. We can say that his name is Marco Baruffetti and you can listen to him on the new single, scheduled for release on late May. The adventure continues. Together with you all. A Perfect Day".
Web: www.facebook.com/APDBand / www.logicillogic.net.
NEW SHOWCASES ONLINE:
Online today are 3 new Showcases - Uriah Heep (Frontiers Records, out June 6) and Acacia Avenue and Dead End Heroes (AOR Heaven, out June 28). Check them out.
Wednesday, May 07, 2014
CALIFORNIA BREED ROCK TRIO U.S. PERFORMANCE DEBUT:
The powerful new rock trio California Breed which features legendary vocalist-bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath), drummer extraordinaire Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin) and 23-year-old newcomer guitarist-singer-songwriter Andrew Watt will have their first-ever U.S. performance in Los Angeles on Wednesday, May 28 at the Whisky A Go Go and in New York City at Gramercy Theatre on Saturday, May 31.
Their self-titled debut album, due out May 20 on Frontiers Records was produced by Dave Cobb (Jamey Johnson, Rival Sons, Shooter Jennings), recorded at his Nashville studio and features equal co-writing credits among the three-man lineup. The album features 23-year-old guitarist ANDREW WATT, who was originally introduced to Glenn Hughes by Julian Lennon at a party in Los Angeles in 2013.
Mixing massive riffs, gutsy vocals and gale force rhythms, the hard-hitting trio's first single "Sweet Tea" is a Top 10 hit on the Classic Rock chart. The video for the explosive track premiered on USA Today: tinyurl.com/mmp7mxq. Recently, the group debuted an animated lyric video for the new song "Midnight Oil" on Classic Rock. The video was created by Nev Todorovi who spearheads the interactive media production company The Young Astronauts. Check out the clip here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=qF_pm7mLqXs.
Watch "making of the album" clips airing on GUITARWORLD.com, here: http://tinyurl.com/mh5uycb and expect California Breed to announce a U.K., European and U.S. tour soon.
WebLinks: www.californiabreed.com / www.facebook.com/CaliforniaBreed.
CHICAGO TRANSIT AUTHORITY: ROBERT LAMM SHARES INSIDER'S PERSPECTIVE:
Dallas, TX - May 6, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands hops aboard the Chicago Transit Authority's 1969 self-titled debut album this week.
Chicago Transit Authority was the inaugural run on what became a record-setting marathon into rock history. The uncommonly talented seven piece outfit blew away all conventional wisdom by making their debut a double album, spawning three big hits, "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?", "Beginnings" and "Questions 67 & 68". With the "CTA" album in 1969, "Chicago", the abbreviated hometown name they soon adopted, set out on the first leg of a spectacular 45 year ride that would see them become the second highest-selling American band in history, second only to the Beach Boys.
The man behind those initial hits and many more, keyboardist / singer / songwriter Robert Lamm spoke to InTheStudio host Redbeard about the musical foundations of the Chicago Transit Authority. " We knew we wanted to do something original. We knew we wanted to break new ground... We wanted to open up the concept of Rock songwriting. We wanted to be able to play something as far out as Frank Zappa and still be able to dance to it, and still have it be able to be programmed on radio."
Chicago Transit Authority /InTheStudio interview part one is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/chicago-transit-authority-45th-anniversary-pt-1-robert-lamm/
FRAMING HANLEY NEW ALBUM "THE SUM OF WHO WE ARE"ť OUT NOW: Framing Hanley will release its new album The Sum Of Who We Are today April 29th via Imagen Records. The band worked with multiple producers on the album to hone in and achieve a new bigger sound. The music is a perfect blend of aggressive, yet melodic alternative rock, infused with the driving hooks of pop. The Sum Of Who We Are was funded entirely by the band's loyal fanbase by donating money via a Kickstarter campaign. "First and foremost, our incredible fans are the reason it's even possible"ť states frontman Nixon. "They funded the entire thing on Kickstarter. That is still unbelievable to us. This record from start to finish is everything that we have in us."ť A full stream of the record is available here: www.billboard.com/articles/news/6070105/framing-hanleythe-sum-of-who-we-are-exclusive-album-premiere
Framing Hanley is comprised of front man Nixon, guitarist Brandon Wootten, drummer Chris Vest, and guitarist Ryan Belcher.
The Sum Of Who We Are is the bands boldest artistic statement to date capturing the essence of innocence and hope, light and darkness, struggle and determination.
"There was definitely a dark period during the 2 years we spent recording this"ť states Nixon. "That's not to say this album is some dark and brooding album. There are definitely some light-hearted tunes on here as well; some that are fun. This album is the past 2 years of our lives and is every part of our beings…that's what the title means. This allbum really is the sum of who we are. The thing that I love most is, I think when the listener puts on those headphones, or puts the cd in the car, he or she is gonna listen and come to find out, hey, me and this guy have got some things in common!"
"The Sum Of Who We Are"ť track listing: 01 Criminal - 3:39 02 Twisted Halos - 3:29 03 Collide - 3:59 04 Crooked Smiles - 3:04 05 Simple Life - 2:58 06 Rollercoaster - 3:07 07 No Saving Me - 3:45 08 Unbreakable - 3:49 09 Science - 4:23 10 Streetlights and Silhouettes - 3:43 11 Crash & Burn - 3:10 12 Forever Till the End - 3:37 13 Castaway - 3:21.
For more information, check out the band's website: www.framinghanley.com / www.facebook.com/FramingHanley.
Tuesday, May 06, 2014
LEGENDARY HIT MAKERS THE BABYS FIRST ALBUM IN 30 YEARS JUNE 24:
New York, NY (May 5, 2014)With a string of '70s classic rock radio hits like "Isn't It Time," "Every Time I Think of You," "Head First," "Back on My Feet Again," "Midnight Rendezvous" and "Turn and Walk Away," The Babys created some of the most memorable arena anthems of the era. Now, after a three-decade absence, The Babys have reformed with original lead guitarist Wally Stocker and drummer Tony Brock to release a new album, I'll Have Some of That, on June 24, and a brand-new single, "I See You There," which is available now on iTunes. The Babys' new album will be released on Skyrocket Ent./All In Time Records. "The whole premise is to keep The Babys alive and have a good time doing it," said Stocker about the reformed group, which also includes new recruits, lead vocalist/ bassist John Bisaha and veteran rhythm guitarist Joey Sykes. The band is joined in concert by keyboardist Francesco Saglietti and the Babettes.
Brock raves about the new members of the group: "John Bisaha is an incredible singer. When we held auditions, we had singers lined up around the block to join the band and John was head and shoulders above the rest." Stocker is equally enthused about his new axe mate: "Joey Sykes adds a whole new dimension to the band and has a style that works well in tandem with me."
Formed in London in 1974, The Babys were signed to Chrysalis Records on the basis of a four-song video, which predated the MTV era by seven years. Combining the muscular rock 'n' roll grit of Free and Humble Pie with a winning commercial accessibility, The Babys released five albums between 1977-1980 (The Babys, Broken Heart, Head First, Union Jacks and On the Edge). During that time, the group toured with the likes of Journey, Alice Cooper and Cheap Trick and built a loyal following based on their spectacular songs and explosive live performances right up until disbanding in December of 1980.
Former members John Waite, Jonathan Cain and Ricky Phillips have all given their blessings to the newest incarnation of the band. Waite continues on as a solo act, while Cain is now a member of Journey, having penned a string of hit singles including "Don't Stop Believing," the most downloaded song in history. Phillips is a longtime bass player for Styx.
The first single from the album, the aptly titled "Not Ready to Say Goodbye," was made available on iTunes last November, with a sound reminiscent of both "Isn't It Time" and "Every Time I Think of You." "In recording this new album, we discussed the fact that the songs had to have the flavor of what we were known for," says Stocker. "It was just a magical process," adds Brock. "By the time we finished, I knew we had the goods."
After the break-up of The Babys, drummer Brock became a member of Rod Stewart's band, and also played with Jeff Beck and Bernie Taupin, among others. He founded the Silver Dreams Studios (www.silverdreamsstudios.com) near Los Angeles, where he produced hit records for Jimmy Barnes, among others. London native Stocker left home at 15 in pursuit of his rock 'n' roll destiny and never looked back. After The Babys, he played with Rod Stewart, Air Supply and Humble Pie.
New vocalist/bassist Bisaha evokes the memories of John Waite, but also brings a new touch, making the songs his own. He joined The Babys at their first comeback performance last July. New York native Sykes, who has had stints in various bands, as well as a publishing association with Warner/Chappell, has penned the first single "I See You There." The Babys embarked on a string of shows in Las Vegas, San Diego, Portland and Seattle last November and December, and plan on announcing an extensive slate of tour dates around the June 24 release of I'll Have Some of That.
Follow The Babys at: www.facebook.com/pages/The-Babys/496421990415013# / www.theBabysOfficial.com / iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/album/ill-have-some-of-that/id867887118?uo=4&at=1l3v3ao.
AXEL KRUSE LEAVES JADED HEART:
While Jaded Heart are in the studio, recording their new album (release date: September 26), we received the news that drummer and founding member Axel Kruse leaves the band after 23 years. "After careful consideration and with a heavy heart, I have decided to leave Jaded Heart after 23 years. This decision has already been in my head for a while, and I want to make it very clear that it has nothing to do with the other guys in the band personally. I simply felt that I had come to a point where I should draw a line and restart my career. I will still play in Mad Max, and I will keep you informed about news on possible involvements in other new projects. Thanx for the great support over all the years to everyone involved, especially all the Jaded Heart fans out there! See ya again soon... "
HOLLYWOOD MONSTERS CAUSE BIG TROUBLE:
Classic hard rockers Hollywood Monsters, featuring Tim Bogert (Vanilla Fudge, Cactus), Don Airey (Deep Purple, Whitesnake, Michael Schenker), Vinnie Appice (Dio, Black Sabbath), signs a record deal with Mausoleum Records. The new album, 'Big Trouble', to be released on 23th May via Mausoleum Records. A brand new song "Move On" can be streamed using the Soundcloud player. The album cover can be viewed below. soundcloud.com/thehollywoodmonsters/move-on-feat-vinny-appice-tim-bogert-don-airey-steph-honde.
"Big Trouble" track listing: 01. Another Day In Grey – Pt 1 02. Move On 03. Big Trouble 04. The Only Way 05. The Cage 06. The Ocean 07. Oh Boy! 08. Underground 09. Village Of The Damned 10. Song For A Fool. Bonus track 11. Fuck You All.
Your favourite Classic Hard Rock artists together! Ever track a bone shaking experience when old and new friends get together for a blast of hard rockin' musical mayhem!
Hollywood Monsters are the brainchild of vocalist, guitarist, composer, Stéphane "Steph" Honde, a French expatriate, who's been living in California since 2012. Honde first became noticed when fronting Mamooth, subsequently garnering a well-deserved reputation as a guitar virtuoso when playing in Café Bertrand, a French rock group he joined in 2004. The band toured, playing humongous stadiums such as the Stade de France, with an audience capacity in excess of 80.000 – performing with classic rock giants such as AC/DC and Deep Purple, the latter for whom they opened on thirty-six dates across Europe in November 2006, and another 12 in March of 2007.Honde recorded two albums with Café Bertrand – both critically acclaimed and commercially successful – "Les Airs Empruntés" (2005) and "L'Art Délicat du Rock'N'Roll" (2008), before leaving the band in 2011.
Honde then embarked on a length tour with Paul Di'Anno, original vocalist with Iron Maiden before absconding to California. Once in Los Angeles Stéphane Honde befriended Tim Bogert, coaxed him out of retirement and convinced Bogert to play on his debut album…and voilŕ, the Hollywood Monsters were born. Stéphane Honde recently signed an agreement with Mausoleum Records for the release of the debut album entitled "Big Trouble" by his new band: Hollywood Monsters, scheduled for release in May 2014.
The talented Hollywood Monsters line-up on "Big Trouble," besides Tim Bogert (Vanilla Fudge, Cactus – on bass, additionally welcomes the performances of some more of Stéphane's talented pals, including: Don Airey (Deep Purple, Whitesnake, Michael Schenker and dozens more – on keyboards), and Vinnie Appice (Dio, Black Sabbath– on drums), the latter for whom Stéphane had written the song "Village Of The Damned" as an homage…before ever meeting Vinnie!
WebLink: www.facebook.com/HollywoodMonsters.
POD BRIEFS:
This week the Double Stop Podcast go full guitar nerd with an interview with Producer John Cuniberti. John explains how he got his start, what it's like to produce Joe Satriani and The Dead Kennedys at the same time, the recording of 'Surfing With The Alien'ť, 'Flying In A Blue Dream'ť and 'The Extremist', the challenges of recording George Lynch's 'Sacred Groove'ť, and his shift into mastering cd's. WebLink: thedoublestop.com/ep-13-john-cuniberti-producer-joe-satriani-george-lynch-the-dead-kennedys/
The Decibel Geek Podcast has released the fifth installment of it's Vinnie Vincent Special with Episode 135 - Vinnie Vincent Special Part 5 w/Andre Labelle.
In this in-depth discussion, hosts Aaron Camaro and Chris Czynszak are joined by former Vinnie Vincent and current drummer of The Sky Andre LaBelle. Andre was tapped by Vincent for the recording of the still-unreleased Guitars from Hell album that was in production from 1989 - 1992. LaBelle shares his memories of auditioning for the enigmatic former Kiss guitarist, the amazing amount of equipment available, and the meticulous recording techniques that seemed to define Vincent as the extremist of which he has been described.
The album went through numerous titles during production. In this long-form discussion, LaBelle recalls a period where Vincent was bouncing between projects; his own and his contribution at the time to Kiss' upcoming 1992 release and how one of his titles plays into KISStory.
Other topics discussed in this episode include Vinnie's method for punching in his guitar parts in the studio as well as how budgets were stretched and tensions caused a break from Vincent's then-label Enigma; causing the project to be shelved to this day.
Episode 135 - Vinnie Vincent Special Part 5 w/Andre LaBelle is now available for download/stream at the following link: dbgeekshow.blogspot.com/2014/05/vinnie-vincent-special-part-5-with.html / traffic.libsyn.com/dbgeekshow/Vinnie_Vincent_Special_Pt_5_-_Andre.mp3.
ALBERTO RIGONI ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE DATE OF HIS FOURTH ALBUM:
After the success of "Three Wise Monkeys" which featured amazing contributions from legendary musicians such as Kevin Moore (ex-Dream Theater) and Göran Edman (ex-Yngwie Malmsteen), Italian bassist and prog rock composer Alberto Rigoni (Solo, TwinSpirits, Vivaldi Metal Project, Kim Bingham, ) is proud to announce the release of his fourth album.
More heavy and progressive than its predecessors, Alberto's new album will be released by Any and All Records on October 1st 2014 and it will be distributed worldwide by PowerProg (Europe), Nightmare Records (USA & Canada), Disk Union (Japan), Mylodon Records (Chile), BTF (Italy), La Mazakuata Records (Mexico). "The album production is going great and it's gonna sound huge! I'm really excited about this new release! In the following weeks Federico Solazzo, who also played amazing keyboards on the album, will do the mixing and the mastering. More news about the album concept, special guest list etc. will be unveiled in the next months." - Alberto Rigoni
An audio preview can be listened at the following link: soundcloud.com/albertorigoni/alberto-rigoni-iv-album.
Monday, May 05, 2014
LILLIAN AXE - ONE NIGHT AT THE TEMPLE MRR PACKAGE TO SHIP THIS WEEK:
The brand new 2CD/1DVD set from Lillian Axe One Night in the Temple released by MelodicRock Records is due for release officially May 19, with the US release due one week later on May 27.
The MRR release is ready to be shipped out THIS WEEK to all those that pre-ordered the set. If you haven't - this is your last call to get in prior to release date and free shipping!
Get in on the deal now at: melodicrock.com/showcase/lillianaxe-onenightinthetemple.html.
Performed acoustically in an intimate setting housed in a Masonic Temple in the Bayou, with their most die-hard fans, One Night in the Temple, features all their hits including, True Believer, Show A Little Love, Crucified, Misery Loves Company, Ghost of Winter, The Great Divide, Bow Your Head, Waters Rising and the crowd favorite Nobody Knows. Lillian Axe founder Steve Blaze reflects; "when I first had the idea of putting this show together, it was originally going to be a private 20 person show with acoustic guitars, vocals and no production, however, it took on a life of its own."
One Night in the Temple; will be released as 3 disc set (2CDs/1DVD and 2CDs/1Blu-Ray), housed in an elaborate Digipak. Filmed in high definition, the Blu-Ray will contain the acoustic performance, fan question and answer session, videos for the songs Caged In and Death Comes Tomorrow, featuring 3 songs live in concert from their July 4, 2013 performance at the Paragon Casino and behind the scenes footage while the DVD will contain 1 song from the Paragon Casino and the video for Death Comes Tomorrow.
Full Track Listing: Disc 1: Waters Rising, Death Comes Tomorrow, Ghost of Winter, See You Someday, The Great Divide, Nocturnal Symphony, Sad Day On Planet Earth, Bow Your Head, Show A Little Love and Misery Loves Company. Disc 2: Crucified, The World Stopped Turning, Dyin' to Live (Shades of Blue), Until The End Of The World, The Day I Met You, The Promised Land, Nobody Knows, My Apologies, True Believer and Nobody Knows (Crowd Version).
DENNIS DRIES READIES FIRST SOLO ALBUM:
News from Dennis Churchill Dries: "After some serious thought, I have decided to remove myself from the Lost Angeles project. Paul Sabu, Eric Ragno and I have come to the conclusion that my current batch of songs are better suited for a solo project. I wish Eric nothing but the best with LA and will help out any way I can, but I will no longer be directly involved with it, nor will I be participating in MRF4. Eric Ragno adds: "As work progressed, it was clear that Dennis deserved a full-fledged album to realize his artistic vision. The results so far have been amazing, and we respect his desire to focus on this vision."
Dennis continues: "Which brings me to my next announcement… I'm excited to announce that 36 years after picking up the bass guitar and spending my music life in a band setting, I'm working on my first solo project. Paul is handling guitars and giving my music the punch that it needs, and Eric is weaving his keyboard magic. His work to date on "Song For The Living" is epic, and I can't wait to share it with the world. Paul is engineering, and we're producing it together with Jason Montgomery laying down the grooves. Paul has a heavier edge to his music, and it's the perfect counter to my melodies… the results are just the right blend of melodic rock for me. It's great to be working with such a talented guitarist/artist again…I wasn't sure that was possible.
I'm not running away from my past, you will definitely hear traces of White Sister, Tattoo Rodeo, and even a little Sabu in these songs, and a few new twists as well…a little bit of everything is in the works. I have about 13 songs written, three of which are a few weeks away from being ready for presentation. I have not yet decided if we're going for a record deal, or a privately funded independent approach…to be decided soon. I love the freedom of an independent project, not sure if I can pull it off financially though!
I'm looking forward to sharing this musical journey with everyone soon. With only three live performances in the last seven years, and nineteen years since my last release, this should be interesting…stay tuned!
Peace, Dennis Churchill Dries."
CLASSIC JUDAS PRIEST METAL ON THE WAY WITH THEIR 17TH ALBUM 'REDEEMER OF SOULS':
There are only a select number of bands that have accomplished what Judas Priest has throughout their career (as well as having served as a stylistic influence on such a wide variety of bands). Soon the group - singer Rob Halford, guitarists Glenn Tipton and Richie Faulkner, bassist Ian Hill and drummer Scott Travis - will be offering up more classic Judas Priest metal with the release of 'Redeemer of Souls'.
To be released in the US on July 15th, 2014 via Epic Records (as a standard version and a deluxe edition with five bonus tracks), 'Redeemer of Souls' is Judas Priest's latest collection of epic metal - "raising the bar is consistent for us and 'Redeemer' hits the ground running" - it matches up perfectly to earlier Priest classics as evidenced by the album's leadoff single 'March of the Damned' ("we are forging ahead, slamming the pedal to the metal!") - the band mean business once again. "We feel 'Redeemer of Souls' reinforces our passion for what we believe in from the Judas Priest style heavy metal." The album also marks Richie Faulkner's studio debut with Priest and is the co-writer of the material along with Glenn Tipton and Rob Halford.
First bursting onto the scene with 1974's 'Rocka Rolla' Judas Priest is responsible for some of heavy metal's all-time great albums - 1980's 'British Steel', 1982's 'Screaming for Vengeance', 1990's 'Painkiller' etc - and anthems 'Breaking the Law', 'Living After Midnight', 'You've Got Another Thing Coming' etc - as well as trailblazing metal's now instantly identifiable look - leather and studs - 2014 marks the 40th anniversary of the band.
And while fans are undoubtedly starved for more Priest (their last studio album 'Nostradamus' was released in 2008) the band themselves are eager for the world to hear their latest studio triumph. "Classic combination of all the statements we love to create with raging guitar riffs and solos, thundering drums, thick grooves of bass and vocals tearing it all up!"
Redeemer Of Souls - tracklisting as follows: Dragonaut, Redeemer Of Souls, Halls Of Valhalla, Sword Of Damocles, March Of The Damned, Down In Flames, Hell & Back, Cold Blooded, Metalizer, Crossfire, Secrets Of The Dead, Battle Cry, Beginning Of The End. Bonus Tracks: Snakebite, Tears Of Blood, Creatures, Bring It On, Never Forget.
For further information visit: www.judaspriest.com / www.facebook.com/OfficialJudasPriest.
HANGFIRE RETURN WITH SOPHMORE RELEASE:
Blending the best of Southern Classic Rock such as Blackberry Smoke, Shine Down and Black Stone Cherry, along with classic power and groove of Led Zeppelin and the guitar class of Joe Bonamassa, HangFire are set to release their full length 2nd album 'Tempting Fete'. As a 'taster' to the full album HangFire give you this sampler preview of three songs, the 1st 'Hell This Time' inspired by the bands appearance at the Hard Rock Hell festival and the circumstances surrounding that performance. Grinding riffs and huge vocal harmonies aplenty. 'Out Alive' a full on Rock n Roll romper in the tradition of ZZ Top meets the best in modern Southern Rock Melody. 'Careful What You Wish For' a huge hook that Moby Dick would never escape from. Riffs, Hooks, Huge soaring melody, it's got the lot! youtu.be/zT04SoCwgX8
Having possibly taken longer to record than Def Leppard's classic 'Hysteria', the wait has been well worth it having blended the very best of the aforementioned bands with the most memorable hooks and guitar riffs to come up with ten absolute gems.
HangFire are hoping to release the full album shortly after securing a label to give the support it deserves. They hope to play all over the U.K. and would love to hear from you if you have a label/distribution or venue appropriate for the bands needs this coming year.
Look out for the first full length video for the track 'Careful What You Wish For'...coming soon !
WebLinks: www.hangfire-rocks.co.uk / www.facebook.com/HangfireRocks.
Friday, May 02, 2014
ALIEN LAND ON SWEDISH CHART:
Reformed Swedish AOR legends Alien have entered #75 at the official national Swedish sales charts and #4 at the Swedish metal charts with their critically acclaimed comeback album "Eternity" which was released on AOR Heaven on April 25. Well done guys!
The album also gets fave rave reviews – here are some quotes:
"A melodic rock masterpiece!" (Rock Hard, Germany)
""Eternity" ist ein bärenstarkes Melodic-Rock-Album mit enorm hohem Wiedererkennungswert geworden und bringt die Herren wieder dorthin, wo sie vor einem Vierteljahrhundert schon einmal waren: nach ganz oben!" (powermetal.de, Germany, 9/10 points)
"It deserves to be placed between Signal's 1989 Loud And Clear and Survivor's 1984 Vital Signs in the record collection of every self-respecting AOR fan." (Hardrockhaven.net, USA)
"Released on the aptly titled AOR Heaven label, "Eternity" attests to the love and passion that never fades over time or distance like it sez in the Survivor like 'Burning Heart' - Alien are truly back and with a number one album!" (Battle Helm)
ViriAOR (Spain, 10/10 points); Metal4all.net (Spain, 9,5/10 points); Nu Rocks (Spain, 5/5 points); Rock Angels (Spain, 5/5 points); Metal-integral.com (France, 8,5/10 points); Rockmeeting.com (France, 5/5 points); Metal-temple.com (Greece, 9/10 points); Melodicrock.it (Italy, 9,5/10 points); Planet AOR (Sweden, 9,5/10 points); Metal Underground (Austria, 5/5 points)…and many more!
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/alientheband / www.facebook.com/aorheaven.
EXCLUSIVE NEW TRACK STREAMING FROM THE BABYS: The Babys are back with a brand new studio album I'll Have Some Of That on June 24, with new vocalist John Bisaha at the helm. The first "official single" I See You There can be purchased at: itunes.apple.com/us/album/i-see-you-there-single/id868482995?uo=4&at=1l3v3ao.
I'm pleased to be able to bring you an exclusive stream of another track from the album - Every Side Of You. And don't forget to stay in touch at: www.facebook.com/pages/The-Babys/496421990415013#
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EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT READIES PETER GABRIEL BACK TO FRONT – LIVE IN LONDON:
New York, NY (May 1, 2014)—Eagle Rock Entertainment is proud to announce the release of Back to Front – Live in London from Peter Gabriel on June 24, 2014. Simultaneously available on DVD, Blu-ray and DVD / Blu-ray Deluxe Editions, this release captures the complete live performance of the So album from start to finish.
Back To Front includes the classics: "Sledgehammer," "Solsbury Hill," "Don't Give Up," "Shock The Monkey," "Big Time," "Digging In The Dirt," "Mercy Street," "No Self Control," "In Your Eyes," "Biko," and many more. The stunning DVD / Blu-ray Deluxe Editions offer a 60-page hardback photobook which includes a second disc containing the theatrical version of Back To Front, featuring additional interviews and montage versions of "Solsbury Hill" and "Sledgehammer" utilizing footage from live shows across the years. The Deluxe Editions also contain a double CD of the complete Back To Front show.
This spectacular live concert, filmed at London's O2 using the latest Ultra High Definition 4K technology, captures Peter Gabriel's celebration of the 25th anniversary of his landmark album So. To mark the event Gabriel reunited his original So touring band from 1986/87 and for the very first time fans saw them play the multi-platinum selling album in its entirety. As a bonus, Back To Front includes 'The Visual Approach', a fascinating feature on the creation of the live show, the track "This Is The Picture" as filmed by fans on the night, and a montage version of "In Your Eyes".
While the core of the performance is the So album, there is so much more to the concert with unfinished, previously unreleased and re-imagined songs sitting effortlessly alongside classic hits reflecting what a multi-dimensional artist Peter Gabriel is. With innovative lighting and staging, Back To Front – Live In London offers a visual and narrative feast that puts the viewer inside a concert like never before.
Track Listing: 1) Daddy Long Legs 2) Come Talk To Me 3) Shock The Monkey 4) Family Snapshot 5) Digging In The Dirt 6) Secret World 7) The Family And The Fishing Net 8) No Self Control
9) Solsbury Hill 10) Show Yourself 11) Red Rain 12) Sledgehammer 13) Don't Give Up 14) That Voice Again 15) Mercy Street 16) Big Time 17) We Do What We're Told (Milgram's 37) 18) This Is The Picture (Excellent Birds) 19) In Your Eyes 20) The Tower That Ate People 21) Biko.
DIRTY DIAMONDS TO RELEASE LET'S GET LOUD THROUGH VANITY MUSIC GROUP IN THE UK:
(1 May 2014 - Limerick, Ireland) The Irish mob known as Dirty Diamonds will release their debut full length effort, Let's Get Loud in the UK via Vanity Music Group on 5 May 2014. A heart pounding twelve song affair of melodic hard rock fury meant to take your head off, the album is the band's follow-up to their 'Leaving Town' Ep in 2013.
Let's Get Loud encompasses everything Dirty Diamonds love about rock and metal music. "We decided from the get go that it should be something that is reflective of all our influences," states Jonathan. Songs such as "Want You to Want Me" and "Wakin' Up the Neighbourhood" are reminiscent of Def Leppard and then you have tracks like "Crash & Burn" and "Against the Grain" which stray much further into the heavier territories of Pantera and Megadeth and "Paradise & Tropicana" features Foo Fighters and Journey as influences. "It wasn't that we were trying to please everybody it was more like there is so much more to Rock n Roll as a genre than just pedal to the metal straight ahead rock all the time and we are big fans of the genre."
The band is accompanying the release with the following dates:
2 May - Dumfries - The Venue
3 May - Dumfermine - Monty's Bar
4 May - Glasgow - 13th Note Cafe
5 May - Edinburgh - Bannermans
6 May - Sunderland - The Corner Flag
7 May - Newcastle - Dog & Parrot
8 May - Manchester - Grand Central
10 May - Nottingham - The Salutation Inn
WebLinks: www.dirtydiamonds.ie / www.facebook.com/dirtydiamondsrock.
BASSIST ERIK SCOTT TO RELEASE SECOND WORLD MUSIC ALBUM 'AND THE EARTH BLEEDS': "A rocking bassist takes trips down unconventional musical roads, with apparently no rules or signposts. Medieval gypsy violin, Celtic melodies, steel guitars….. surprises."
San Francisco, CA - Much to the excitement of music aficionados worldwide, bassist/composer Erik Scott will be releasing his sophomore CD 'And The Earth Bleeds' on May 8, 2014. Best known for his work with Alice Cooper, Sonia Dada, and Flo & Eddie, Erik's newest release takes the listener on an aural voyage through ethereal and otherworldly musical landscapes. 'And The Earth Bleeds' adds some vocals, gypsy violins, Celtic melodies, a dash of steel guitar, a wisp of French horns and other surprises to the soulful and mystic brew of his first 'solo' album, 'Other Planets'. And Erik continues to stretch convention with his melodic playing and bass-generated SFX.
Says Erik, "There are people who carefully plan out the direction of their music...smart. Then there's me. I pretty much have no idea at the start. I get in the music room and start messing around on something; bass guitar, chord changes on the keyboard, or a beat on the beat programmer. If I like something, it just starts to build. The lyrics on the five songs with lyrics on this CD...well, they happened later, when it seemed that the music alone wasn't saying all that I wanted."ť
Among the eclectic mix, there is a definite Scottish influence in the music – especially on the tracks "Free", "The Battle For Neverland"ť and "Run". Erik explains, "I went to the Scottish Highlands and Edinburgh last August 2013. I had completely written and recorded 'Free' as an instrumental, when I was reminded of the price some people have paid for their freedom, in this case William Wallace of Scotland. It seemed that I needed to say a few words...not a lot...just a few. After returning from the Highlands, I found the trip had helped me complete the Scottish inspired pieces. The melody, originally played on bass, took on such a haunting beauty when played on the veille (medieval violin) by Shira Kammen, that I decided it was the music to which I should write the lyrics that became 'Free'."ť
"Free"ť is inspired by, and dedicated to William Wallace. "The Battle For Neverland"ť is inspired by J.M. Barrie, the Scottish creator of 'Peter Pan', and "Run"ť is decidedly influenced by traditional Celtic melodies. Also the bridge to "Battle"ť is inspired by a traditional Scottish melody "The Haughs of Cromdale"ť. Watch the promotional video for "Free"ť: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mjAUnayIb8.
Erik Scott's first real break in the music business came in mid-1974 when he was hired to play bass for former Turtles/Frank Zappa's Mothers members Flo & Eddie (Mark Volman and Howard Kaylan). Erik recalls, "We toured and recorded constantly for about three years, making the 'Illegal, Immoral and Fattening' and 'Moving Targets' records. Flo and Eddie shows were known for alot of great hit songs from their career as 'The Turtles', cool stuff from the Flo & Eddie albums, some stuff from the Zappa years, and their usually profane and hysterical tirades about the excesses of pop stars and the music business in general. That's how I first met Alice, onstage with Keith Moon at the Troubadour in LA singing 'Happy Together' (Turtles Hit) and 'Wooly Bully'. We went out in '75 with Jefferson Starship, whose 'Red Octopus' album went to #1 five different times, and in '76 we were out with the Doobie Brothers, whose 'Takin' It to The Streets' was also #1. In between we did a tour with Steven Stills, and gigs with Fleetwood Mac, among others. These tours, and the albums with Flo & Eddie, still stick in my memory."ť
In 1980, Erik began working with the legendary Alice Cooper after a short stint with drummer Carl Palmer of Emerson, Lake & Palmer. Erik Scott, first hired as bass player on the 'Flush The Fashion' tour, later became a co-writer on 'Special Forces' and co-producer as well on 'Zipper Catches Skin', touring extensively behind the 'Special Forces' album.
After Alice, Erik spent some years as a session player in LA, with artists as diverse as Kim Carnes, Peter McIan, Franne Golde, Tonio K, and others. He also found time to co-write and play on the title song from Pops Staples' 'Father Father' album, which won the Grammy as Best Contemporary Blues album in 1994. He also played on the title song from Mavis Staples' album 'Have A Little Faith", which was recognized by the WC Foundation in the Gospel-Blues category for the year 2004.
In 1989, Erik formed the rock band Signal and released the album 'Loud and Clear' on EMI Records. The album was largely lost in a regime change at EMI USA, but gathered acclaim as an AOR melodic rock hit internationally…a bbit of a classic actually. Three commemorative packages were released overseas: Japan, France (Axe-Killer Records), and South Korea. 'Loud and Clear' made many 1989 year end Top Ten and Top Twenty charts for AOR and melodic rock.
In the early 90's Scott became an original member of the band Sonia Dada. The group featured eight members: three African-American soul singers and five European-American players with backgrounds ranging from rock, folk, jam, psychedelic, jazz and R&B, all of which brewed up quite a genre-busting stew. Erik spent 15 years, and recorded 6 albums with the ensemble, "where a diversity and collision of styles awakened all kinds of possibilities in me, probably helping to inspire the unconventionality of my solo work"ť.
Although Erik is originally known for his work in the rock field, he has recently pursued a path in 'world' music. In 2009, he released the critically acclaimed solo album 'Other Planets'. John Diliberto, producer/host of the radio show 'Echoes', is quoted: "To say that his solo debut 'Other Planets' is a bass guitar album is to miss what a powerful, cinematic release he's created. It's an album that is more Pink Floyd than Jaco Pastorius."ť
And now, Erik has taken his enchanting and mystical music a step further with the release of 'And The Earth Bleeds'. He explains, "Again, no plan... I premeditated nothing. The melodic nature of it, any chilled out nature of much of it, came mostly from the fact that the music was birthed in my studio with just me. Rock music generally happens when you have more than one person...a gang...a rock gang. These solo projects come more from a melodic and chilled-out rhythmic place, and a desire to experiment with the potential of the electric bass as a major melodic voice, in combination with violin, steel guitar, and other less-expected partners."ť
In closing Erik has this to impart to his fans and listeners, "I guess I hope that listeners appreciate the soulfulness, nuanced performances, and spacey honesty that probably leaks all over the stuff."ť
For more information: erikscottbass.com.
To purchase Erik Scott's And The World Bleeds CD: www.cdbaby.com/cd/erikscott3.
STRANGE KARMA TO STREAM LIVE PERFORMANCE IN CONJUNCTION WITH NEW SINGLE:
With their latest killer single, "Devil from the Moon," just issued via iTunes on Tuesday, April 22nd (on Flexitone Records), Strange Karma will be celebrating its release by streaming a live performance (of the album in its entirety) on the internet. On Sunday, May 4th at Top End Studios in Sydney, Australia, the group (which is led by the brother duo of Martin and Paul Strange, who supply vocals and guitar, respectively) will be performing at the USA Times of 12:30 AM Pacific/3:30 AM Eastern and the Australia Time of 5:30 PM. Click here to stream it live on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFrRjrAihNI.
Fans can also give a listen to "Devil from the Moon" and purchase it for $.99 via iTunes, via this link: itunes.apple.com/album/devil-from-the-moon-single/id853946945.
"Devil from the Moon" also serves as a prelude to the group's upcoming, yet-to-be-titled album, which was produced and engineered by Grammy nominated David Ivory. "Working on the new album with David was an unforgettable experience," the brothers recall. "He instinctively recognized what was necessary to manifest the essence of Strange Karma and mould it into something that appeals to a worldwide audience. During our collaboration, David connected with us both on a musical and personal level. His intrinsic ability as a producer to bring out the best in us as musicians has led to the creation of an authentic live performance experience and an honest representation of the Strange Karma sound."
Judging from "Devil from the Moon," Strange Karma's upcoming sophomore disc will expand on the promise of their debut effort. And soon, fans will be able to experience the band on a nearby computer screen, when they perform live from Sydney.
For More Info, Visit: www.strangekarma.net / www.facebook.com/pages/Strange-Karma/157783670932214.
MRX UPDATED:
It's Aussie rock week with MRX - 3 killer live recordings to check out:
- Rose Tattoo - Live Reading Festival 1981
- Dragon - Live One (1985)
- AC/DC - Austin1985 Join MRX now.
Thursday, May 01, 2014
LOVERBOY KEYBOARDIST DOUG JOHNSON'S NOTES TO SELF:
Indie release available on iTunes, CDBaby and his own website is an homage to Beethoven, Bartok, Chopin and Ravel featuring pieces he composed and arranged himself.
Los Angeles, April 30, 2014-The distance from "Working for the Weekend" to classical composers like Beethoven, Bartok, Chopin and Ravel might seem like a long way, but Loverboy keyboardist Doug Johnson has proven there is a connection on his new CD, Notes to Self. Recorded in Vancouver with classical musicians from the Vancouver Opera Symphony, the CBC Radio Symphony and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the album is available digitally on iTunes and CDBaby as well as in physical form on his own website (www.dougjohnsonmusic.com/CD.html) via PayPal. "If you listen, the keyboard parts for many of Loverboy's songs were very much informed by my classical training," says Johnson, who started taking piano lessons at four years old, then received his Associate of the Royal Conservatory of Toronto (A.R.C.T) degree when he was 18, with a silver medal. "This has been a lifelong passion for me."
Recorded in Vancouver on a nine-foot Steinway concert grand piano with a variety of classical musicians-most prominently violinist Mark Ferris, who helped with the arrangements, and flautist Lorna McGhee-Notes to Self was inspired by "my physical and emotional connections to the places and people in my life."
The album ranges from solo pieces like the playful "Sucrose," a number that reflects the deleterious effects of a birthday cake-induced sugar rush on his visiting granddaughters to a quintet featuring violin, viola, cello, flute and his own keyboards on the opening four-part "The Crescent Suite," a grand vision of four seasons as seen from running on the beach near his Surrey home in West Canada.
"It goes from the fall, when the storms start coming in ('Con Brio') through all four seasons, ending with the summer ('Maestoso'), when all the tourists arrive and life is more laid-back," says Johnson, who also captures the brooding, overcast nature of the area's weather in "Waltz of the Grey Days," a duet with piano and cello.
"Zoe" and "Emily" are dedicated to his nieces, the former "beautiful, capricious and brave," the latter "a methodical, persistent problem-solver," both painting vivid pictures by capturing those personalities in sound. "Two Versions of a Visit" is another piano/cello duet that reflects the very different personalities of his two grandsons. "Warsaw" is his tribute to Chopin, whom Johnson considers "the best composer of piano music who ever lived... I've always had a special place in my heart for him."
Johnson, an outspoken believer in music education, hopes that Notes to Self will simply make people feel good. "I'm hoping it will energize them, and allow them to reflect," he says. "Music is inspired by the things around us and our experiences, our interactions with others," adds Johnson. "I wanted to let people in on that process, how this album came about."
And while he has already performed some of this music recently in a live setting, Johnson isn't about to ignore his "day" job, playing with Loverboy, who for three decades have entertained several generations of fans with hits like "Working for the Weekend," "Lovin' Every Minute of It," "This Could Be the Night," "Hot Girls in Love," "Heaven In Your Eyes," "Turn Me Loose," "When It's Over," "The Kid is Hot Tonite" and "Queen of the Broken Hearts." "Playing with Loverboy is just a great deal of fun," he says. "We're like brothers. We get to stand up before thousands of fans, and when you look out into the crowd, you see them smiling, laughing, dancing and having a great time. Our songs seem to have stood the test of time. They're not only relatable to our old fans, but their kids."
Catch Loverboy on tour this summer: www.loverboyband.com/tours.html.
FROM POLAND TO PERRIS FOR SCREAM MAKER: Perris Records is proud to announce the CD release of their first band from Poland Scream Maker. The "Livin' In The Past" CD cover was designed by Roslaw Szaybo, world-renowned designer of Judas Priest, Elton John, Santana and Bob Marley.The band just finished a tour in Poland with Paul Di'Anno and sharing the stage with Blaze Bayley (Iron Maiden). Scream Maker will also be on 9 city tour through China including the Mordensky Festival festival in Beijing.
WebLink: www.perrisrecords.com.
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NEW WIZARDS OF WINTER ALBUM ARTWORK TO BE DESIGNED BY IOANNIS:
Legendary record cover artist Ioannis (Deep Purple, Uriah Heep, King Crimson, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bob Weir, Allman Brothers Band, Dream Theater) will be joining forces with The Wizards of Winter to produce cover artwork for their upcoming album to be released later this year. Ioannis will also design merchandise and the tour art for their upcoming 2014 schedule.
Says Ioannis, "I think The Wizards of Winter is an incredibly talented group of individuals and it will be cool to work on their holiday project, so I am really looking forward to doing this." Plans are also in discussion for additional ventures to be announced later this year.
The Wizards of Winter, the prog-metal-meets-classical rock band that has been hard at work recording their second release, are excited to be working with this iconic artist for the design of their album cover artwork. Ioannis has created the covers of over 170 albums, with his art firmly rooted in fantasy and surrealism. The currently untitled album, produced by Tommy Farese of Trans-Siberian Orchestra fame, promises to continue the band's style of integrating elements of hard rock and classical influences into a distinctive blend of original compositions.
"We are honored to have the privilege to work with a creative master like Ioannis," said Scott Kelly, leader of The Wizards of Winter. "His art work has graced the album covers of so many of the music industry's legendary performers that he too, truly is a legend. When Ioannis contacted us and told us that he really liked our material and wanted to work together, we were really quite surprised given where the band is in its development. It is just another proof point that the Wizards are really beginning to gain some broad recognition. After speaking with Ioannis, Steve Ratchen, one of the other co-founders of the band, and I both found that besides being a very nice and approachable guy, his artistic concepts and marketing directions appear to be exactly what we need at this time to assist us in moving to the next level. We are humbly grateful that he has chosen to work with us and greatly look forward to working with him."
For more info visit: thewizardsofwinter.com / www.dangerousage.com / www.facebook.com/DANGEROUSAGEART?ref=hl.
UNISONIC ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM AND EP 'FOR THE KINGDOM':
Two years after their celebrated eponymous debut album German hard rock supergroup Unisonic which includes Michael Kiske, Kai Hansen, Dennis Ward, Mandy Meyer and last but not least Kosta Zafiriou is back with a new record that will be released on July 25. As a foretaste of their eagerly awaited sophomore album the band will release the EP 'For The Kingdom', which contains two new songs and four live tracks, on May 23.
Rock and metal fans had to wait many many years – 23 to be exact – before it finally happened: German metal icons Kai Hansen and Michael Kiske, who kicked off German Metal trailblazers Helloween's international triumph with the two 'Keeper Of The Seven Keys' records at the end of the 80s, got back together again. Again? Yes, again: Hansen quit Helloween in 1989 to found Gamma Ray while Kiske left four years later to attend to his solo projects. Even though the band already formed a year before Kai joined them but it was his involvement that made Unisonic a so-called supergroup.
The two congenial musicians' new baby was called Unisonic and instantly aroused enthusiasm in the rock and metal community. Their first single 'Unisonic' got well over 150.000 YouTube clicks in just a few days after its release in January 2012 and has by now garnered more than 640.000. When music legends like Kiske on mic and Hansen on guitar, who are completed by bassist Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69), guitarrist Mandy Meyer (Krokus, ex Asia & Gotthard) and drummer Kosta Zafiriou (ex Pink Cream 69), pool their creative strengths, the world is going to be set on fire for sure.
And Unisonic did deliver the goods: After their teaser mini album 'Ignition' got rave reviews and sold out immediately, the eponymous full-length debut was equally acclaimed and proved impressively that the chemistry between Hansen and Kiske is simply second to none. However, all those who expected a third 'Keeper Of The Seven Keys' album were mistaken: Instead of relying on worn out success patterns the two thoroughbred musicians rather indulged in heavy rock than in power metal and delivered a stylistically manifold album which featured everything from emotional ballad to luscious rock track while occasionally still drawing on buzzing heavy metal of course. The outcome was a unique collection of rock anthems full of energy, melody and magic.
And there's more to come. Only two years later Hansen, Kiske and co. up the ante again with their sophomore album which is once more produced by Dennis Ward and will be released on July 25th. Heralding this eagerly awaited full-length album, Unisonic will again offer a foretaste in form of an EP called 'For The Kingdom' which will see the light of day on May 23rd. The six song collection consists of the brand new album track 'For The Kingdom', which hymn-like chorus and its double-bass footwork extraordinaire will rush the blood to the head of all metal fans. Followed by the EP exclusive smasher 'You Come Undone' which could have been included on the first band offering as well but also gives a hint of what to expect from the near-by future plus four live recordings from their show at the Masters Of Rock Festival 2012 in the Czech Republic where Unisonic performed a celebrated show (also exclusive to this EP).
NEW SHOWCASES ONLINE:
New Showcases online today for Tesla & Night Ranger (Frontiers Records, out June 6) and Perfect View, Sonic Station & Rik Priem's Prime (Avenue Of Allies, out May 23). Check them all out!
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
SPV/STEAMHAMMER IS PROUD TO RELEASE THE NEW ACE FREHLEY ALBUM IN EUROPE:
2014 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Ace Frehley will release Space Invader, his first new solo album in five years, via SPV/Steamhammer in Europe on July 07. The album will include nine brand new original songs as well as a cover of Steve Miller's "The Joker."
Frehley has released an official statement surrounding his new studio album: "Life on Earth has been very good to me, and the body of work I've created over the years has withstood the test of time. Today I see no obstacles before me and my creativity has never been more fine tuned. Growing up in an Alien world has enhanced my senses and allowed me to succeed where others would have failed. The best is yet to come!"
Widely known as the original "Space Ace" and founding guitarist for 16 cumulative years (over 2 tenures) of the multi-platinum selling rock band Kiss, Frehley is demonstrably the most popular original member. In addition to having the best-selling solo album career (vintage or current) among the original foursome, Frehley's self-titled Ace Frehley, released in 1978, went on to sell over one million copies, producing the only Top 40 single, "New York Groove,"ť from any of the legendary Kiss solo albums; (peaking at #13). The massive hit was most recently featured in an episode of cult show "Entourage"ť and was also KISS' second bestselling download in 2012, besting such KISS Army anthems as "I Was Made For Lovin' You,"ť "Beth"ť and "Calling Dr. Love"ť even after 36 years.
Since departing from KISS, Frehley went on to release four more solo albums and one live EP including his most recent effort, Anomaly in 2009, which received a welcoming response among critics. "'Anomaly' shows why many rock and metal guitarists list "Space Ace' as a prime six-string influence," said Rolling Stone.
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GARY CHERONE'S HURTSMILE TO RELEASE NEW RECORD 'RETROGRENADE':
Boston (April 30, 2014) Gary Cherone (Extreme, Van Halen) is back with Hurtsmile and, teaming up with pledgemusic.com to release 'Retrogrenade' on June 2 with a public release to follow. Available now at Pledgemusic.com, is a free download of the single "Rock & Roll Cliché."
Following up their 2011 self-titled debut, the band's second release 'Retrogrenade' pays homage to almost every genre Cherone has presented in the past and still finds room to give you something new. Inspired by their classic rock roots, "it is the collective effort of the Band flexing their musical muscle" says Gary. Diverse tracks include the Aero/DC inspired 'Rock & Roll Cliché,' the hook laden 'Hello I Must Be Going', the epic blues of 'Where Do We Go From Here', to the sweet acoustic broken-hearted harmonies of 'Goodbye.' Hurtsmile rebels against traditional cohesiveness and does not attempt to capture a specific mood. It rather bombards you with a multitude of emotions and challenges you to go along for the ride.
Hurtsmile is Gary Cherone on vocals, Mark Cherone (Flesh) on guitar, Joe Pessia (Tantric/Dramagods) on bass and Dana Spellman on drums. To download "Rock & Roll Cliché" please go to: www.pledgemusic.com/projects/hurtsmile/updates/35280.
Track Listing: Rock & Roll Cliché, Hello I Must Be Going, Big Government, I Still Do, Sing A Song (My Mia), Anymore (Don't Want My Love),Where Do We Go From Here, A Melody For You, Wonder What, Walk Away, Good Bye, Pump it Up.
WebLinks: www.hurtsmile.com / www.facebook.com/Hurtsmile / www.twitter.com/hurtsmile.
xx
VAN HALEN SOPHOMORE EFFORT DANCES ONTO RADIO 35 YEARS AGO:
Dallas, TX - April 29, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the 35th anniversary of Van Halen II with a look back at four formative Van Halen albums.
The quintessential American hard rock band Van Halen's 1978 debut all but guaranteed their election to the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame on the first ballot, quickly becoming a benchmark for every hard rock band ever since. Six years later they even topped that with 1984, one of the most popular and influential albums ever. Every one of the four Van Halen albums in between, II, Women and Children First, Fair Warning and Diver Down would all sell millions and each would top its predecessor on the album sales chart.
These early years, although undeniably successful, came with a price, and by 1982 Van Halen had become a series of contradictions: even though selling a million each on Van Halen II and its successors, as well as hundreds of thousands of concert tickets, their record label was concerned over a lack of mainstream hits and a shallow well of songs. Creative frustration along with personal conflicts within the band would eventually lead to a post-David Lee Roth Van Halen.
Alex Van Halen describes to InTheStudio host Redbeard how visceral and primal their creative process was on those formative albums. "When we're in the studio and the amps are cranked to eleven on the dial and you're having a great time playing it, I think that's the one thing you shouldn't forget. We've been looking at songs, how do we write them, how do we come up with the ideas, but once we start playing, it's a perpetual thing."
Van Halen II /InTheStudio interview is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/van-halen-2-35th-anniversary/
GEOFF TATE TO EMBARK ON FAREWELL QUEENSRYCHE TOUR BEGINNING IN JULY:
More than thirty years after setting forth on the musical journey that would become known as Queensryche, singer Geoff Tate -- one of rock's quintessential front men and the lead vocalist heard on all Queensryche hits -- will be performing his farewell tour as "Queensryche" beginning in late July (see below for full itinerary).
The announcement of the tour, Queensryche Starring Geoff Tate - The Farewell Tour, comes hot on the heels of the recent amicable settlement with his former band mates Michael Wilton, Eddie Jackson and Scott Rockenfield, who will be continuing with the band name.
With Geoff at the helm of Queensryche, the band experienced incredible success, garnering four Grammy nominations, performing in 46 different countries and selling over 20 million albums worldwide.
"One thing that's really important for fans to know is that this never went to court," comments Geoff Tate, who will be continuing as Geoff Tate: The Voice of Queensryche once the summer farewell tour is complete.
As part of the agreement between the original members, Geoff will have the exclusive right to perform the concept albums Operation: Mindcrime and Operation: Mindcrime II as unique performances.
For the past several months, Geoff and his version of Queensryche (comprised of bassist Rudy Sarzo, guitarist Robert Sarzo, guitarist Kelly Gray, drummer Simon Wright and keyboardist Randy Gane) have been performing the fan favorite on their 25th Anniversary Mindcrime Tour (with special guest Sass Jordan as "Sister Mary") in front of sold out audiences everywhere. "It's sort of similar to the Pink Floyd situation where Roger Waters retained The Wall," comments Geoff. "Mindcrime was my thing and my story, so it's only appropriate that I keep that... The others will be touring as Queensryche and I'll be continuing on as me."
The popularity of the theatrical back-to-back presentation of the Operation: Mindcrime saga (I & II) was exemplified when the performance was captured for the 2007 double DVD/CD set, Mindcrime at the Moore, that hit #1 on Billboard's Top Music DVD Chart and eventually reached gold status.
For the forthcoming tour, Geoff's version of Queensryche will be performing all the hits along with some rarities to celebrate the music he's enjoyed making over the past thirty years.
Although the name will change, the line-up of stellar musicians performing with Geoff after this "farewell" tour is expected to remain the same.
Tickets go on sale for the majority of shows this Friday, May 2nd and this Saturday, May 3rd.
Please visit www.queensryche.com, www.facebook.com/GeoffTateOfficial and www.twitter.com/GeoffTate.
Queensryche Starring Geoff Tate / 2014 Farewell Tour Dates
Wednesday, July 30 - Saint Rocke in Hermosa Beach, California
Thursday, July 31 - The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, California
Friday, August 1 - Sycuan Casino in El Cajon, California
Saturday, August 2 - House of Blues in Las Vegas, Nevada
Sunday, August 3 - The Canyon Club in Agoura, California
Thursday, August 7 - Strummer's in Fresno, California
Friday, August 8 - Theatre Deville in Vacaville, California
Saturday, August 9 - Downtown Amphitheater in Morgan Hill, California
Tuesday, August 12 - Music Marathon Works in Nashville, Tennessee
Wednesday, August 13 - Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh, North Carolina
Thursday, August 14 - The Chop Shop in Charlotte, North Carolina
Friday, August 15 - Ziggy's by the Sea in Wilmington, North Carolina
Saturday, August 16 - Ziggy's in Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Sunday, August 17 - Center Stage in Atlanta, Georgia
Tuesday, August 19 - Trees in Dallas, Texas
Wednesday, August 20 - Aztec Theatre in San Antonio, Texas
Friday, August 22 - Rialto Theatre in Tucson, Arizona
Saturday, August 23 - Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona
Sunday, August 24 - Sunshine Theater in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Tuesday, August 26 - The Depot in Salt Lake City, Utah
Thursday, August 28 - The Cotillion in Wichita, Kansas
Saturday, August 30 - Tailgaters in Bolingbrook, Illinois
Michael Wilton of Queensryche will be the very special guest on this week's episode of Noize In The Attic (Where Your Past Comes Back To Haunt You) broadcasting this Friday 1-3PM EST on WNHU 88.7FM New Haven, CT (streaming live on www.wnhu.net) The in-depth interview brings us up to speed on all things Queensryche plus Michael goes back in time with stories on growing up, touring with Ozzy and more! Free podcasts are available on iTunes or by following the link at www.noizeintheattic.com where you can also find additional air-times and affiliates.
JAMES KOTTAK ON THE WRONG SIDE OF UAE AUTHORITIES:
From: www.billboard.com/articles/news/6070318/james-kottak-arrested-scorpions-drummer-jailed-in-dubai.
Newspapers in the United Arab Emirates are reporting that the American drummer for the rock band Scorpions has been sentenced to one month in jail after being convicted of offensive behavior in Dubai.
The government-backed National newspaper reported Tuesday that James Kottak was convicted of insulting Islam, raising his middle finger and being under the influence of alcohol while in transit at Dubai airport. The reports allege Kottak was heard ranting about "non-educated Muslims" and that he covered his nose when he saw Pakistani and Afghan passengers nearby. He also reportedly pulled his pants down.
The Gulf News daily says he was arrested April 3 en route from Russia to Bahrain, where the German band was scheduled to perform at a Formula One race. Kottak was a no-show at the April 5 concert.
The newspapers say Kottak admitted to drinking but denied other charges.
"There is no way that I would say such a phrase about Muslims, whether I was drunk or not," he reportedly told police. "I confess to drinking alcohol but I refuse the other two charges, I did not do them."
The Scorpions' manager didn't respond to requests for comment. Kottak's local lawyer couldn't immediately be reached. Kottak joined the Scorpions in 1996.
SIGNUM REGIS: NEW VOCALIST ANNOUNCED:
The melodic metal band Signum Regis are proud to announce their new vocalist: Mayo Petranin. Ronnie Konig of Signum Regis comments: "Mayo Petranin has been with us as a guest singer since the last autumn. We played several gigs together, did a lot of rehearsing and spent a quite a bit of time together. During those months, we were able to tune in to the same vibe musically; we got to know each other and became friends. Being so happy with Mayo's work and his interpretation of our songs, we are now naturally moving forward to the next step: Mayo is now officially the singer and frontman of Signum Regis."
Signum Regis line-up 2014: Mayo Petranin - Vocals; Filip Koluš - Guitars; Ronnie Konig - Bass; Jaˇn Tupa - Keyboards, backing vocals; Jaro Jancula - Drums.
Up-coming Signum Regis shows:
May 2nd: Blast of Eternity Club Show [with Sleeping Romance] - Neckarsulm, Germany
May 3rd: Rock for Eternity - Amersfoort, Netherlands
The latest Signum Regis album "Exodus" was released late 2013 through Ulterium Records. The album feat. guest vocals from Michael Vescera [ex. Yngwie Malmsteen, Loudness], Matt Smith [Theocracy], Lance King [ex. Balance of Power], Goran Edman [ex. Yngwie Malmsteen] and more. Signum Regis are currently working on new material, and will hit the studio later this year to record the follow-up to "Exodus".
ACE FREHLEY, NIGHT RANGER & GEORGE LYNCH FOR CARNEGIE MUSIC FUND:
Legendary San Francisco Rock 'n Roll DJ and personality Nikki Blakk will add major rock 'n roll power to the Carnegie ROCKS @ VIP Premiere Event! Her passion and enthusiasm for rock only proves that this event isn't your ordinary art exhibit or concert. It's a unique, never been done before, rockin' bash. Nikki Blakk is an on-air personality at San Francisco's 107.7 The Bone (KSAN) Monday through Friday from 7PM to Midnight. She is also a host for The Metal Zone, which is featured every Friday night from 10PM to 1AM.
The Carnegie Arts Center is proud to announce a commitment to music in the community through the newly created Carnegie Music Fund. The fund will support music education in all forms and will continue to make an impact long after the "Rocks" exhibit closes in late August. The Music Fund will help to capture the national and international enthusiasm for Carnegie ROCKS! To contribute and help us accomplish our $20K Goal, please visit: bit.ly/PLM9Ms.
The historic Carnegie Library opened in 1916, and is now one of only a handful of art centers in the region. The Carnegie's programs include exhibitions, education classes and programs, lectures, and activities in artistic genres as diverse as dance, music, theater and more. At least 25% of all programming is dedicated to children and teens. The Carnegie Arts Center Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization and all donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Website: carnegieartsturlock.org.
To purchase Carnegie Rocks @ VIP premiere tickets: Carnegie Rocks @ VIP Premiere Event! is a fund(d)raiser and will be held on Saturday, May 24. Limited tickets are still available. www.carnegierocks.eventbrite.com.
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
INTRODUCING ADRENALINE RUSH: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the digital release of Adrenaline Rush debut single Change. The new single is available from today for download (iTunes, Amazon etc) and legal streaming (Spotify, Deezer, etc) on all digital platforms across the world! The digital single is taken from the forthcoming debut album entitled Adrenaline Rush which is planned for release at the end of August on Frontiers.
Adrenaline Rush EPK can be enjoyed here:
Fronted by one of the most talented and hottest chicks in today's Hard Rock scene, Tĺve Wanning (formerly part of the Teen-Pop duo Peaches), Adrenaline Rush promises to fire up the Rock scene with their lethal dose of heavy guitars, infectious hooks and full blown RnR attitude. With a debut album recorded under the direction of producer Erik Martensson (Eclipse, W.E.T), this impressive band needs to be on the "to buy" list for all fans of Danger Danger, Motley Crue, Warrant, Treat and Crazy Lixx.
Adrenaline Rush will make their international live debut THIS WEEK on May 2 at the Frontiers Rock Festival in Trezzo, Milan – Italy! Come to enjoy this killer new band!
More info at www.adrenalinerush.se.
xxxx
SEVEN DEBUT FIRST VIDEO: Escape Music will release 7: Seven on June 20.
The track listing is: 1-Shoot To Kill 2-Inside Love 3-Diana 4-America 5-Headlines 6-Strangers 7-Don't Break My Heart 8-Still (Download in full - April 2014 Mystery Track) 9-Thru The Night 10- Never Too Late 11- Say Goodbye.
7 is: Mick Devine – Lead Vocals / Keith Mcfarlane – guitar, Vocals / Pat Davey- Bass, Vocals / Simon Lefevre – Keyboards, Vocals / Austin "Oz" Lane – Drums.
Special guests: Lars Chriss Guitars; Mark Mangold: Keyboards; Adam Wakeman: Keyboards; Fredrik Bergh: Keyboards; Dig Digital: Keyboards; Tomas Coox: Piano and strings arrangement; Fretless Bass: Shuji Matsumoto on "Strangers"; Bass: Andy Loos.
Produced by: Lars Chriss; Mastered by: Mike Lind.
AOR HEAVEN ANNOUNCE DEAD END HEROES AND ACACIA AVENUE FOR JUNE: AOR Heaven have announced their 27 releases from Dead End Heroes and Acacia Avenue. Details as follows:
Dead End Heroes – Roadkill / Some bands are formed together through newspaper ads, others are the net result of a prolonged booze session at the local pub, yet the Dead End Heroes were formed by accident. A good accident! Whilst the initial discussions began around a solo album of Swiss drummer Daniel Voegeli (Me & The Rest), the project grew arms and legs and developed into an immense passion - a completely fully operational band that excelled at having fun sharing their common love of Hard Rock. After Voegeli had assembled his collection of instrumental songs he contacted exceptional Guitarist and Producer Rolf Munkes (Empire, Tony Martin, Majesty) to oversee the disc's production. However, Munkes was so impressed by Voegeli's drumming and initial song ideas that he encouraged him to develop a fully functioning band around the tunes and work towards completing an album. The first port of call was German vocalist and session musician Carsten Lizard Schulz (Evidence One, Domain, Lavalle) who took Voegeli's instrumentals under his wing and gave them new life. Through his engaging lyrics and ear candy hooks they developed into real songs with Schulz' trademark stamp alongside Voegeli's bedrock base.
On Schulz's recommendation, the next member to join the fold was Scottish bassist Paul Logue (Eden's Curse, Doogie White, David Readman, Lavalle), who had worked with him on several productions. Logue at first was hesitant to belong to any group out with his main band but succumbed after completing the recording sessions at his studio in Scotland, such was the strength of the material. Last but by no means least, to add the missing Classic Rock ingredient to the recipe was Schulz' long-time friend and world-class Hammond Organist Holger Seeger (Midnite Club, Iain Ashley Hersey). His Hammond gave the songs the final flavour they were missing whilst a classy seventies touch and vibe.
All five members were without doubt absolutely certain that this had become more than just a studio project and the Dead End Heroes were born. Sitting musically somewhere between late seventies and early eighties hard rock with a hint of Deep Purple, a pinch of Krokus and an extra serving of classic Michael Schenker, their addictive cocktail is simply good time old-fashioned Hard Rock that packs a punch. Sometimes ... it just works!
Line-up: Carsten Lizard Schulz – vocals, Rolf Munkes – guitars, Daniel Voegeli – drums, Paul Logue – bass, Holger Seeger - keyboards.
Track list: 01. Roadkill, 02. Dead End Heroes, 03. Cry For The Moon, 04. Feed The Flames, 05. The Wind Howls Fire, 06. Stormfront, 07. Hands Off The Wheel, 08. And The Loser Is, 09. Technicolor Love, 10. The Fire's Worth The Loneliness, 11. Gambler's Crusade.
Sound clips in advance: Cry For The Moon / Roadkill / The Wind Howls Fire.
Acacia Avenue - Cold / The idea for Acacia Avenue began back in 2008. Founding member, Torben Enevoldsen (Fate, Fatal Force, Section A), spent most of that year writing new material. Some of this new material came to be very melodic hard rock/AOR, and the idea of doing a full album in this style quickly emerged. In order to spice things up however, Enevoldsen decided to ask a few good friends of his to participate, both as singers, but also as co-writers. The debut album featured Tony Mills (Ex-TNT, Shy), Geir Rönning (Radioactive), Torben Lysholm (Pangea, Mysterell) and Lars Säfsund (Work Of Art) on vocals. Torben did the bass, keyboards and guitars, as well as both lead and backing vocals on a few songs himself, and Thomas Heintzelmann (Decoy) did the drums. The self-entitled debut album was released on Lion Music in January 2010.
Enevoldsen continued doing various projects, but at the end of 2010, Torben was asked to join the Danish hard rock band Fate. He agreed and joined the band in January 2011. Although busy with Fate, Enevoldsen never stopped working on new material of his own. So the idea of doing another Acacia Avenue album was never far away. Torben grew up listening to bands like Boston, Journey, Toto and Survivor, so he thoroughly enjoyed writing in this very melodic and somewhat softer style.
New songs were written and the first singer to get involved was Rob Moratti (Ex-Saga, Final Frontier). Torben and Rob had met each other on MySpace, years before Rob joined Saga, and had discussed the possibility of working together. Acacia Avenue turned out to be the perfect vehicle to pursue this desire.
Apart from Rob, the new album features vocal performances by Steve Newman (Newman), Torben Lysholm (Pangea, Mysterell), Albin Ljungqvist, Mikael Roupé (Bamboo Brothers), Peter Sundell (Grand Illusion, Decoy) and Nicklas Sonne (Defecto).
Once again, Torben was in charge for all the bass, keyboards and guitars, as well as singing background vocals on a few songs. New drummer, Dennis Hansen (Fatal Force) did the drums, and like last time, the majority of the recordings took place at Funny Farm Studios in Denmark, which is Torben's own studio. The new album, entitled "Cold", was mixed and mastered at Funny Farm Studios by Torben Enevoldsen. Enevoldsen also produced the album.
Line-up: Rob Moratti – Vocals, Steve Newman – Vocals, Albin Ljungqvist – Vocals, Mikael Roupé – Vocals, Torben Lysholm – Vocals, Peter Sundell – Vocals, Nicklas Sonne – Vocals, Torben Enevoldsen - Guitars, bass, keyboards., vocals, Lars Frandsen-Melau - piano on "Cold", Dennis Hansen - Drums.
Track list: 01 Time (Enevoldsen/Newman) , 02 Love Will Survive (Enevoldsen/Moratti), 03 It's Over (Enevoldsen/Ljungqvist), 04 Out Of The Business, (Waybill/Anderson/Cotten/Prince/ Steen/Welnick/Spoon), 05 Signs Of Love (Enevoldsen/Moratti), 06 Cold (Enevoldsen/Walsh), 07 Angelina - (Enevoldsen/Newman), 08 You And I (Enevoldsen/Roupé), 09 Calling Out (Enevoldsen/Sonne), 10 How Many Nights (Enevoldsen/Lysholm), 11 Freedom From Doubt (Enevoldsen).
Sound clips in advance: Angelina / Love Will Survive / Signs Of Love.
H.E.A.T VIDEO FOR MANNEQUIN SHOW OUT NOW: H.E.A.T just posted their video for their new song "Mannequin Show" on YouTube this week. If you have had your head in the sand and are yet to see/hear it - check it out!
Mannequin Show is taken from H.E.A.T's new album Tearing Down The Walls; the follow-up to the band's critically acclaimed 2012 album Address The Nation. The new album was recorded with Grammy-award winning producer Tobias Lindell (the latter also produced Europe's 2009 album Last Look At Eden).
Don't miss H.E.A.T's UK tour:
London Garage Friday 16th May
Newcastle O2 Academy 2 Saturday 17th May
Glasgow Cathouse Sunday 18th May
Manchester Academy 3 Monday 19th May
And don't miss the band at their exclusive 2014 USA appearance at MelodicRock Fest in Chicago this October! Full details at: www.melodicrockfest.com.
BROTHER FIRETRIBE DEBUT FIRST NEW VIDEO: Brother Firetribe have released their first video from the new album Diamond In The Firepit (out next week). Check out the mighty For Better Or Worse:
JUDAS PRIEST UNLEASH TASTER FROM THEIR 17TH ALBUM, 'REDEEMER OF SOULS':
For fans of Judas Priest that simply cannot wait for the July 15th release date of their latest classic metal album, Redeemer of Souls, there is some relief on the way. On Tuesday, April 29th, the title track from the album will be available for purchase via iTunes (itunes.apple.com/us/album/redeemer-of-souls-single/id863086125) and other digital service providers. And a clip of the song (plus the single's artwork) is now available to sample at the band's website, www.judaspriest.com.
If you are wondering what to expect from the mighty Priest on their forthcoming album, guitarist Glenn Tipton has set the record straight. "Sometimes in the past we may have come under fire for being too adventurous musically - so we have listened!! From start to finish 'Redeemer of Souls' is 13 songs of pure classic Priest metal!!"
There are only a select number of bands that have accomplished what Judas Priest has throughout their career (as well as having served as a stylistic influence on such a wide variety of bands). Soon the group - singer Rob Halford, guitarists Glenn Tipton and Richie Faulkner, bassist Ian Hill and drummer Scott Travis - will be offering up more classic Judas Priest metal with the release of 'Redeemer of Souls'
For further information visit: www.judaspriest.com / www.facebook.com/OfficialJudasPriest.
21Octayne is the epitome of soulful, honest, ass-kicking Rock with a slight modern touch. A new name, a new band, but no unknowns here: the band consists of vocalist Hagen Grohe (The Joe Perry Project), Marco Wriedt (Axxis), Andrew "The Bullet" LLauer (Paul Gilbert) and drummer Alex Landenburg (Rhapsody). The four guys took their time and worked hard on their debut album for more than two years, ready for impact now! A video clip for the track "Dear Friend" is available now: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xnrqx54jGTw.
Jan Le'Brandt has finished and release a music video for his latest Single "Cloud Nine"! youtu.be/2Osay9Aui9U.
STYX 'PARADISE THEATER' ALBUM TO BE RELEASED ON HYBRID SACD: Styx fans rejoice with the release of the band's critically aclaimed album 'Paradise Theater' on limited numbered Hybrid SACD by Marshall Blonstein's Audio Fidelity. Styx's 10th album, the 1981 release, 'Paradise Theater' was the band's fourth consecutive triple-platinum album. A resounding success, 'Paradise Theater' was their greatest commercial triumph and their only #1 album. It remains one of the best examples of the convergence between progressive rock and AOR which typified the arena rock sound of the top groups of the late-seventies and early-eighties such as Journey, REO Speedwagon, Cheap Trick and Kansas.
Styx was a great group of talented musicians - Dennis DeYoung, Tommy Shaw, James Young, Chuck Panozzo and John Panozzo. The album included three Billboard Hot 100 hits, The Best of Times, Nothing Ever Goes As Plannedť and Too Much Time on My Handsť considered among Tommy Shaw's finest singles ever. Another track, Rockin' The Paradiseť reached #8 on the Top Rock Track Chart.
The concept album is a fictional account of Chicago's Paradise Theatre from its opening to closing, used as a metaphor for America's changing times from the late 1970s into the 1980s.
TRACKS: A.D. 1928, Rockin' the Paradise, Too Much Time on My Hands, Nothing Ever Goes As Planned, The Best of Times, Lonely People, She Cares, Snowblind, Half-Penny, Two-Penny, A.D. 1958, State Street Sadie.
Produced by Styx, Mastered by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio.
For more information: www.audiofidelity.net/content/styx-paradise-theater.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS WITH SEBASTIAN BACH, JOHN WETTON, PRETTY MAIDS AND SHAKIN' STREET: Rich Davenport's Rock Show this week features exclusive interviews with Sebastian Bach, John Wetton (Asia), Ronnie Atkins (Pretty Maids) and Fabienne Shine (Shakin' Street), and is available now for streaming at this link: www.mixcloud.com/richdav1/rich-davenports-rock-show-sebastian-bach-asia-pretty-maids-and-shakin-street-interviews/
In the first hour of the show, former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach talks about his brand new solo album "Give 'Em Hell", which features an all-star cast of musicians and songwriters, including Duff McKagan (ex-Guns & Roses), Steve Stevens (Billy Idol) and John 5 (Rob Zombie) You'll also hear two tracks from the new release.
Also in part 1, Ronnie Atkins of long-running melodic Hard Rockers Pretty Maids give the low down on the band's just-released collection of re-recorded classics and brand new songs, "Louder Than Ever", and selects tracks from the record.
In part two, Asia frontman John Wetton discusses the band's new album "Gravitas", and the recruitment of new guitarist Sam Coulson. John also chooses two songs from "Gravitas". And finally, Fabienne Shine of Shakin' Street (also featuring Ross The Boss, ex-Manowar) talks about the band's return to action with new album "Psychic", and selects tracks from the new release. Plus a classic tracks and killer new cuts from Motorhead (welcome back Lemmy!), UFO, Hogjaw, 21 Guns, LRS, Deep Purple and Rose Tattoo.
You can also listen on Sunday 27th April 15:00-17:00 GMT and Wednesday 30th April 22:00-00.00 GMT on www.totalrock.com, and on demand on hot new Texas rock and metal station KXZR Radio at www.kxzr.fm.
Monday, April 28, 2014
RED MOON RISING COMES INTO PERFECT VIEW IN MAY:
The Italian Melodic Rock band Perfect View will release their second album Red Moon Rising on May 23 through Avenue Of Allies. Almost four years have passed since the five-piece from Modena released their acclaimed debut album "Hold Your Dreams" in the fall of 2010 and the development of the band since then is nothing short of impressive. While the first record was a very good sounding and solid effort, it still tested the waters of a variety of Hard and Heavy genres, from AOR to Progressive Hard Rock. The songs "Red Moon Rising" are now very focused and it's clear that Melodic Rock with a slightly harder edge is what the band does best. As expected the songs are again on a consistently high level regarding the song writing, the arrangements and the flawless performance of each band member.
Perfect View was founded in 2008 by singer Max Ordine, guitar player Francesco Cataldo and drummer Luca Ferraresi. Their idea for the musical direction of the band was to combine elements of first class AOR and Melodic Rock in the vein of Toto, Winger and Journey with some harder moments ŕ la Van Halen and Lynch Mob and to add an occasional progressive touch to the sound.
The line-up for "Hold Your Dreams" was completed by Cristian Guerzoni on bass and Pier Mazzini on keyboards.
Prior to being a part of Perfect View the guys in the band have shown their musical talents on the stage, as well as in the studio when they were working with established artists and bands like Olaf Thorsen (Vision Divine, Labyrinth), Roberto Tiranti (Labyrinth), Alex DeRosso (Dokken, Dark Lord) and the very successful Kiss tribute band Electric Circus. Max and Francesco were also members of the band Xteria, a predecessor of Perfect View. Xteria recorded one album called "Outshine" in 2000 and they opened for the American Progressive Metal band Symphony X that same year.
Since the release of their debut album the band shot a video for the title track of "Hold Your Dreams" and they also played a number of live shows, including an opening gig for Harem Scarem. In early 2012 Cristian left the band for personal reasons, he was replaced by Frank Paulis, an old road dog, who also took over various tasks on the band's business side.
The work on the songs for "Red Moon Rising" was again a collective effort with contributions coming from each musician, in addition to their own compositions the guys added Toto's epic "Home Of The Brave" to the album's tracklist. The recording sessions started in May 2013, with the tracks eventually being engineered and mixed in November by Roberto Priori (Danger Zone, Wheels Of Fire, Los Angeles) at his PriStudios in Bologna, Italy, together with Pier Mazzini. Some of the band's musical friends make guest appearances on the album, Michele Luppi (Secret Sphere, Los Angeles, ex-Vision Divine) sings background and harmony vocals on the Melodic Rock anthem "By My Side" and Giacomo Gigantelli (Danger Zone) contributed to the background vocals on "Slave To The Empire".
Perfect View have already scheduled some concerts and festival gigs for 2014 and the band will support the release of "Red Moon Rising" with special activities for the fans and of course with more live dates.
All lyrics written by Francesco Cataldo, except "Home Of The Brave" by David Paich, Steve Lukather, Jimmy Webb & Joseph Williams. Perfect View are: Max Ordine: Lead & background vocals; Francesco Cataldo: All guitars & background vocals; Pier Mazzini: Keyboards & background vocals; Frank Paulis: Bass & background vocals; Luca Ferraresi: Drums & background vocals. Guest musicians:
Michele Luppi: Background vocals on "By My Side"; Giacomo Gigantelli: Background vocals on "Slave To The Empire".
WebLinks: www.perfectviewtheband.com / avenue-of-allies.com.
THE LATEST FROM ROCK CANDY:
The following four new Rock Candy titles are all available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price including postage to anywhere in the world for the next two weeks ending on May 12.
Rick Springfield 'Working Class Dog' CANDY227 / Of Australian origin, Rick Springfield's early career saw him flirting with a number of styles, from pop to psychedelia and all points in between. Moving to the US in the early seventies Rick's recording career slowly ground to a halt whilst, simultaneously, his acting career was growing in leaps and bounds, affording him am envious profile. It wasn't long before record companies came knocking and by 1981 Rick had secured yet another contract, this time with RCA and released the album 'Working Class Dog', a triumph of melody and muscle. Recorded in his adopted home of Los Angeles, at the now famed Sound City studios, with a production combination of Rick Springfield, Bill Drescher and Fleetwood Mac producer, Keith Olsen, the album exploded out of the box to become one of the biggest selling records of the year, eventually achieving three million units. In addition, the single 'Jessie's Girl' reached #1 on the charts, helping to define his clean cut pop rock style and providing a watershed mark for the rest of his career.
Penning nine of the ten songs himself, it was left to fellow rocker Sammy Hagar to provide the second hit single taken from this record, 'I've Done Everything For You', a song originally written in 1977, but not recorded at that time. As near a perfect a pop rock album as you could wish for, 'Working Class Dog' set the standard for radio friendly rock for much of the eighties.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 3 bonus tracks, contains 'Jessie's Girl', and 'I've done Everything Thing For You', 16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Love Is Alright Tonite 2. Jessie's Girl 3. Hole In My Heart 4. Carry Me Away 5. I've Done Everything For You 6. The Light Of Love 7. Everybody's Girl 8. Daddy's Pearl 9. Red Hot & Blue Love 10. Inside Silvia Bonus Tracks: 11. Easy To Cry 12. Taxi Dancing (Original Version) 13. Jessie's Girl (Demo Version).
Rick Springfield 'Rock Of Life' CANDY228 / Rick Springfield's previous studio album, 'Tao', went a good way to redefine his creative ambitions as he had previously, rather unjustly, been labelled as a glamorous pop rock idol with an acting profile that forever appeared to overshadow his musical career. At this point Springfield was at a crossroads in his life both professionally and personally, looking for answers to a multitude questions that had begun to increase in importance and complexity. 'Rock Of Life' was, in many ways, a continuance of the themes touched on with 'Tao'. Songs such as 'Honeymoon In Beirut', 'World's Start Turning', 'Woman' and the title track, are profoundly poignant, confessional and focus on specific personal issues. But whilst the lyrical content may be heavy, the musical support is anything but. Produced to pin-point accuracy by long time collaborator Keith Olsen, the music is seriously upbeat, dynamic and very cutting edge, in fact it's is generally regarded as one of the best sounding albums of the era. Originally issued in 1988, 'Rock Of Life' may not have been a chart smash but it definitely helped to quash any thoughts that he may have been just a pretty face with little to say. Surrounded by some of the best session players of the time, including guitarists Tim Pierce and Dan Huff (Giant), the album stands out for a number of reasons as arguably his greatest achievement.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 2 bonus tracks, 16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Rock Of Life 2. Honeymoon In Beirut 3. World Start Turning 4. One Reason (To Believe) 5. Soul To Soul 6. Tear It All Down 7. Woman 8. Dream In Colour 9. Hold On To Your Dream 10. (If You Think You're) Groovy Bonus Tracks 11. The Language Of Love 12. Rock Of Life (Extended Remix).
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Lynch Mob 'Wicked Sensation' CANDY238 / It was hardly a surprise when George Lynch announced his departure from Dokken, the band he'd enjoyed enormous success with during the eighties. The fact that Don Dokken and George Lynch were at loggerheads for much of that time was no secret, so the split was, in many respects, inevitable. For George it was a chance to strike out on his own, assembling a handpicked unit that retained the services of fellow Dokken drummer Mick Brown with the addition of bassist Anthony Esposito and the then largely unknown, but super talented, vocalist Oni Logan. Dubbed, rather amusingly, Lynch Mob, the band were signed by Elektra Records who were hoping to benefit from Lynch's platinum success with Dokken. Produced by Max Norman (Ozzy Osbourne, Y&T, Armored Saint) and recorded in Los Angeles, the music was a combustible mixture of blues based hard rock with a searing metallic edge, allowing George Lynch to fly off the handle with amazing guitar pyrotechnics at every available opportunity. It also showcased Oni Logan's incredibly mature sounding voice to maximum effect. Think Coverdale, Ronnie James Dio and Tom Keiffer. Containing twelve tracks that have stood the test of time with flying colours, the music is full-tilt in your face rock, spearheaded by tracks such as 'River Of Love', 'Sweet Sister Mercy' and 'She's Evil But She's Mine'. Best of all, it is the title track that really defines the band's sound, a howling thunderclap of noise with a one in a million hook that takes no prisoners.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, produced by Max Norman (Ozzy Osbourne, Dokken), enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Wicked Sensation 2. River Of Love 3. Sweet Sister Mercy 4. All I Want 5. Hell Child 6. She's Evil But She's Mine 7. Dance Of The Dogs 8. Rain 9. No Bed Of Roses 10. Through These Eyes 11. For A Million Years 12. Street Fightin' Man.
Georgia Satellites 'S/T' CANDY234 / When they first arrived on the scene, in 1986, The Georgia Satellites couldn't have been more incongruous in the musical landscape. On one hand they were flanked by clean cut electro pop acts and on the other they were surrounded by legions of hair-metal reprobates. The Satellites, however, were not only digging deep into their regional southern roots but they were also taking inspiration from the rock and roll era. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, the band worked up a sound that seemed part British blues boom and part southern rock, evoking comparisons to influences as diverse as Status Quo, the Rolling Stones, the Faces and Lynyrd Skynyrd. It was a raw, take no prisoners style, with an eye on the prize and a nod to the band's musical heritage, which set them apart as a breath of fresh air in a scene short of genuine originality. Issued in 1986 on the Elektra label and produced by Jeff Glixman (Kansas, Gary Moore, Black Sabbath), the album is an explosive statement of intent with guitars cranked to the max and songs that sounds so relaxed they could've written themselves. Comprised of front man Dan Baird, guitarist Rick Richards, bassist Rick Price and drummer Mauro Magellan they smashed their way to #2 in the Billboard singles chart with 'Keep Your Hands To Yourself' and 'Battle Ship Chains'. Look out too for a killer version of Rod Stewart's classic 'Every Picture Tells A Story'.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, Produced by Geoff Glixman (Kansas, Black Sabbath),16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Keep Your Hands To Yourself 2. Railroad Steel 3. Battleship Chains 4. Red Light 5. The Myth Of Love 6. Can't Stand The Pain 7. Golden Light 8. Over And Over 9. Nights Of Mystery 10. Every Picture Tells A Story Bonus Tracks 11. I'm Waiting For The Man 12. The Myth Of Love (Live) 13. Battleship Chains (Remix) 14. Hard Luck Boy 15. Red Light (Live) 16. No Money Down (Live) 17. Battleship Chains (Remix).
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THE BABYS READY TO DELIVER SOME OF THAT:
By Gerry Gittelson ~ Melodicrock.com Los Angeles correspondent - The Babys are back with a new album, "I'll Have Some of That"
Los Angeles -- Legendary classic-rock band The Babys have a new album set for release in June entitled I'll Have Some of That, and the group celebrated with a listening party for members of the press and the production team along with some friends and a few fans.
There are 14 songs (12 for the USA release), a mix of blistering rockers like "Grass is Greener" and "These Days" and layered ballads like "See You There," a totally infectious selection that figures to be the first single. Co-founders Tony Brock (drums) and Wally Stocker (guitar) remain, and the new members are singer John Bisaha and guitarist Joey Sykes.
Brock handled production duties at his studio Silver Dreams, and the record sounds bright and slick while retaining a bluesy edge that mostly nods towards the band's early recordings like their self-titled debut and "Broken Heart." The band played a series of successful comeback shows this past summer in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, and an international tour is planned for late summer. A side keyboardist and two female backup singers are part of the touring ensemble.
The Babys formed in 1976 and enjoyed a string of hit singles including "Isn't It Time," "Every Time I Think of You," "Back on My Feet Again," "Head First" and "Midnight Rendez-Vous." Original singer John Waite has gone on to stardom as a solo artist and also as a member of supergroup Bad English, which featured fellow former Babys Jonathan Cain (now in Journey) and Ricky Phillips (now in Styx).
For information, visit thebabysofficial.com.
Photo: The Babys (left to right): John Bisaha, Tony Brock, Wally Stocker, Joey Sykes.
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R.I.P DAVID KNIGHT OF HOLY WATER: Fredric Villano of US rockers Holy Water delivered this sad news to me Saturday: "I'm sorry to report the recent passing of Holy Water singer David Knight. The details surrounding his death are still developing, but we do know he passed away on Monday April 21, 2014. David was a phenomenal singer and those who knew him and/or heard him sing will most definitely attest to this fact. "All I Need," the video/single released by Holy Water in support of The Collected Sessions release (Perris, 2009), is quite possibly the last song David ever wrote/recorded/sang. You can check that out here: myspace.com/thisisholywater/video/all-i-need-/100593250."
INTRODUCING BLACKWELDER:
International power prog metal band Blackwelder signs record deal with Germany's GoldenCore Records/ZYX Music. Blackwelder is currently recording, mixing and mastering the yet untitled album for a release later this year. Hailing from the four corners of the world, Blackwelder is a brand new metal experience featuring some of the top names in Power Prog Metal today. Arguably the best singer in all of metal, Ralf Scheepers (Primal Fear, ex-Gamma Ray) fronts this extraordinary outfit at the top of his game, alongside guitar virtuoso Andrew Szus (Seven Seraphim), Bjorn Englen (Dio Disciples, ex-Yngwie Malmsteen) and Aquiles Priester (Hangar, ex-Angra) round out this unstoppable team of what quite possibly could be one of the greatest line-ups metal has ever seen.
Blackwelder began as the long-awaited follow up to Seven Seraphim's "Believe in Angels". Bit by bit, as the songs materialized, it became evident to mainman Andrew Szucs that this music should carry the banner of a new musical entity, emerging from a richer, darker source – thus, Blackwelder was born. Andrew began this musical journey alone, however, once he completed the framework for all of the songs, the band members began to fall into place like pieces of a puzzle.
Bjorn Englen was the first to climb aboard, expertly adding his bass lines to the songs. Bjorn would later go on tour with Tony MacAlpine alongside drummer Aquiles Priester, after which, it seemed only natural to keep this rhythm section intact for Blackwelder.
Once Andrew's guitars were recorded, it became evident that a true powerhouse vocalist was needed to carry these songs to completion. Not just any voice would do.Blackwelder would need the stratospheric vocal stylings characterized by the rich tradition of European heavy metal, and who better to do that than the voice of Primal Fear: Ralf Scheepers. Like a dragon with its fire, Ralf's voice and lyrical themes are a natural fit to the songs of Blackwelder; blending and contrasting with the Marshall-based guitar tones in perfect harmony.
Topping off this powerful line-up is the unparalleled drumming of Aquiles Priester. Andrew and Aquiles agreed to finish the songs with Aquiles' unique pyrotechnic display of progressive metal drumming techniques and what a display it is.
Blackwelder is a winning formula of raw musical virtuosity that holds the listener's ears right from the start. This act is surely not one to be missed and cannot be denied!
WebLink: www.facebook.com/BlackwelderMetal
EDGUY'S TOBIAS SAMMET INTERVIEWS WITH HARDROCK HAVEN: Edguy's Tobias Sammet Interviews with Hardrock Haven
HRH: Thanks for taking the time to talk with Hardrock Haven … and on to the neww album, Space Police: Defenders of the Crown. How did the band possibly come up with such a happy album? Aren't you guys aware that humanity is destroying the earth's climate, that the gibbering idiot American War Machine is drooling over the possibility of being able to go to war with white people this time, that these are the 'End Times'ť some people say? And you combat that with 'Love t-t-t-tyger!'ť (And is that a William Blake reference, as in, 'tyger tyger burning bright'ť)
Tobias: It doesn't matter if you win or lose, if you succeed or fail; the only thing that counts is whether you've got your sunglasses on. My world is going down with flying colors! And the other question is: How entertaining is it to go to a Metal show, have seven beers and listen to a nerd with a flannel shirt singing about Exxon Valdez? To each his own, but beware of the Love Tyger, he's gonna get all of you! 'Tyger Tyger burning bright'ť? No, I just thought tigers looked more Metal than I, with a 'Y'ť as in Queensr-Y-che's earl-Y albums, not as in Queensryche's Tr-I-be. That's it! Y is Metal! Just like Yron Mayden, MetallYca and The Yardbirds. Did you know that a lot of us musicians are illiterates? I am not as half as smart as some people may think, ha!
To read the entire interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2014/04/interviw-with-tobias-sammet-of-edguy/.
Now online is the new in-depth interview with solo singer/songwriter and former Trans-Siberian Orchestra vocalist Peter Shaw. In it, Shaw discusses his time touring and performing with TSO, his views on the music business and his exciting new solo EP: musicandartinterviews.blogspot.com/2014/04/peter-shaw.html.
On this week's Double Stop show Brian Sword talks to producer Keith Olsen. He covers his early days at Sound City, his role in the creation of Fleetwood Mac, and what it's like to be in the studio with the Grateful Dead (he nailed the door shut to keep them in). He goes into detail on the making of Whitesnake's 3 most classic albums (including Dan Huff), Ozzy's "No Rest for the Wicked' (Zakk was a riot) and Lynch Mob's self-titled (Including Glenn Hughes' involvement): thedoublestop.com/ep-12-keith-olsen-fleetwood-mac-the-grateful-dead-whitesnake-ozzy.
MAX NAVARRO TO START RECORDING NEW ALBUM:
The Italian-Canadian rocker Max Navarro has confirmed that he's going to finally begin work on new album, with a message left on his Facebook profile. Nine tracks that will be published in his fourth official still untitled album that will see the light in winter. A lot of changes in the line-up of the band after the departures of drummer Simone Morettin – who joined Elvenking - and bassist Jack Novell, replaced by Alex Parpinel and Danny Pollaci. Alongside Navarro have remained guitarist John Paul Bellucci and producer Nick Mayer. 'We have completed the pre-production in January, but we took a couple of months to settle some ideas - Navarro says - . This album will sound less harsh than the previous "Hard Times" , but surely it will be a great American-rock album. "Hard Times" was an angry record , this one will be somehow more detached; not that the world over the past two years has changed for the better; maybe it's just me that look at it more peacefully'ť.
For recording sessions Navarro chose the Nico Odorico's 'Angel 's Wings Studios'ť: 'I'm happy to work with Nico again, there's a great feeling between us. We worked together over the last two albums, but only for the mixing. Now I decided to give him the keys of the entire record. One more reason to expect great things'ť.
WebLinks: www.maxnavarro.com – www.cherrylipsrecords.com.
Friday, April 25, 2014
INTRODUCING MOON LAND FEATURING LENNA KUURMAA: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of Estonian artist Lenna Kuurmaa for a brand new Melodic Rock studio project band called Moon Land.
Lenna Kuurmaa is a 360° artist, singer, actress and TV personality. Born in Estonia, Lenna has been the front-woman of the Pop-Rock sensation Vanilla Ninja (which took part to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2005 representing Switzerland and released 4 studio albums awarded with gold and platinum records in different European countries). While the band is on hiatus, lately she has concentrated on her TV and acting career. She has also started a more mainstream and pop oriented solo career which is very successful and brought her to win many music awards in Estonia. But Lenna has a Rock heart so, the Moon Land project sees her coming back to Melodic Rock with a musical style mostly akin to Heart and Europe.
The Moon Land project started when Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino started to look for a female voice which could work on a bunch of beautiful Melodic Rock songs he gathered. Fans can have an idea of how the album will sound like checking the album EPK.
With a debut album planned for release in late 2014, the Moon Land will debut some of the new songs on the second day (May 2nd) of the Frontiers Rock Festival to be held at the Live Music Club in Trezzo (Milan).
RIK PRIEM'S PRIME DEBUT OUT IN MAY:
The debut album of Rik Priem's Prime will be released through Avenue Of Allies on May 23. Several familiar names of the international Hard and Heavy scene were involved in the recording and the production process of guitar player Rik Priem's band project. The German musicians Carsten 'Lizard' Schulz (Dead End Heroes, Frozen Rain, Lavalle, Evidence One, Midnite Club) on lead vocals and Rami Ali (Freedom Call, Iron Mask, Lavalle, Frontline, Evidence One) on drums are well known faces in the recording studio and on stages around the world. Rik first met Carsten during the making of the second Frozen Rain album "Ahead Of Time".
The band is completed by bass player Vincent De Laat, who also participated in the Frozen Rain sessions and Rik's long-time friend Geert Margodt on keyboards. Producer Steffen Seeger (Iain Ashley Hersey, Midnite Club) oversaw the sessions, before the finishing touches to the album were put on the recordings in the German Empire Studios by Rolf Munkes (Dead End Heroes, Empire, Razorback, Tony Martin), who handled the mix and the mastering of the tracks.
Reading the names of everyone involved in Rik Priem's Prime it becomes obvious what to expect from the record, a hard rockin' slice of energetic Heavy Rock. The breath taking musical performances of each musician combined with Carsten's vocals on each song of the album, except for the instrumental "Chameleon", will attract any fan and follower of the previous and current bands and projects of the participating musicians to Rik Priem's Prime.
Rik Priem's musical history started with a bass guitar when he was 14, among the bands he discovered during his teen years were Rock and Punk icons like Deep Purple, Kiss, AC/DC, Dead Kennedys and the Sex Pistols. At the dawn of the 80s Judas Priest's "British Steel" album left a lasting impression on young Rik and when he heard the music of Def Leppard, Ozzy Osbourne, Dokken and Iron Maiden, he knew that he wanted an electric guitar and an amplifier. His parents granted him the wish and Rik's Hard Rock infection made him practice on the guitar for hours almost every day.
Over the years Rik's curiosity to explore music led him to listen to a variety of styles ranging from his Hard Rock roots to Blues and from Fusion to classical pieces. His passion for the guitar grew even stronger with the years and he developed his own technique to play the instrument. Joining a band and composing original music seemed like a natural move for Rik, so he began writing instrumental songs and playing with various local bands. In 2000, after years of working on his skills in playing, tuning and repairing guitars, Rik finally decided to make a living out of his love for the guitar and became a professional guitar teacher and guitar technician.
The band experiences however didn't meet Rik's expectations on many levels and besides a few instrumentals on compilation albums his playing wasn't heard on a CD until he joined Kurt Vereecke's Melodic Rock project Frozen Rain in 2008 . The album "Ahead Of Time", on which Rik also co-wrote five songs, eventually came out in the spring of 2012.
Being a member of Frozen Rain was not only the starting point for a further co-operation with Carsten, who was the vital spark for Rik Priem's Prime as a band project, but it also opened the door to work on the debut of the Swedish AOR band Sapphire Eyes as a guest musician.
In support of the release of Rik Priem's Prime the band members are now gearing up to shoot a video for the stomping Heavy Rocker "Babylon Rising" and to bring the songs to the live stage.
Tracklisting: 1) Sunset Over Agartha 2) Babylon Rising3) The Future Is Now 4) Hungry At Heart 5) Blindfolded 6) Chameleon (instrumental) 7) Flirting With An Alien 8) Kneel Before The Pieces (Of A Broken Heart) 9) In With The Freaks 10) Looks Like Trouble 11) Run Angel Run 12) Bloodrush 13) Child Of Anger.
All songs written by Rik Priem and Carsten 'Lizard' Schulz; except "Sunset Over Agartha" by Geert Margodt; Produced & engineered by Steffen Seeger; Mixed & mastered by Rolf Munkes at Empire Studios, Bensheim/Germany. Rik Priem's Prime are: Rik Priem: all electric & acoustic guitars, bass on "Chameleon"; Carsten 'Lizard' Schulz: lead vocals; Geert Margodt: keyboards; Vincent De Laat: bass (except on "Chameleon"); Ramy Ali: drums.
Rik Priem's Prime on the web: www.mrcool.be / www.facebook.com/RIK.PRIEM.S.PRIME / www.facebook.com/rik.priem.
EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW FROM BROTHER FIRETRIBE'S DIAMOND IN THE FIREPIT:
Some say that a diamond can be made to sparkle even brighter by placing it into a fire pit for a while. Well, Finland's melodic rock heroes Brother Firetribe have apparently spent the last four years in the proverbial firepit, because now they've returned with some pretty shiny tunes!
Diamond in the Firepit, Brother Firetribe's third full-length album will be released June 3 in North America, May 3 in The United Kingdom and May 2 in Finland/Europe via Spinefarm Records. Today the band has revealed the artwork and track listing for Diamond in the Firepit as well as released the first single "For Better or For Worse" which can be streamed HERE.
The single is available for purchase digitally on iTunes HERE.
Singer Pekka Ansio Heino spoke about the band's upcoming release: "We're thrilled to be back in action after 5 years which seems like a life time! We wouldn't be THIS thrilled if the new album hadn't turned out be exactly how we wanted it to be. It's just as bold, big, polished, hooky and sticky as we pictured it. A lot of hard work was spent making it happen and now it's time for the best part of making music; taking it out and playing it live. We can't wait to meet our old friends again and hopefully make some new ones along the way. Hope you enjoy Diamond In The Firepit. Thanks for still being there and sorry for the delay, let's have some serious fun!"
Diamond in the Firepit is chock-full of melodic rock ear candy; an unbroken string of eleven hits with glistening choruses, heavenly harmonies and lyrics brimming with larger-than life love. Sure enough, this album will be the soundtrack of the coming summer like its predecessors, for in times like these when the reality bites, the economy is down, people feel downtrodden and everyday life seems like a grind, we all need a shot of positive energy and a reminder that there's not a whole lot that can't be fixed with a smile and a song.
Brother Firetribe will be touring extensively in support of Diamond in the Firepit. Currently the band has a CD release show scheduled for May 3 in Helsinki, Finland at Virgin Oil Co and an appearance set for The South Park Festival in Tampere, Finland at Eteläpuisto on June 7. More dates will be announced in the coming weeks.
Diamond in the Firepit Track Listing: 01. Intro 02. Love's Not Enough 03. Far Away from Love 04. For Better or for Worse 05. Desperately 06. Edge Of Forever 07. Hanging by a Thread 08. Trail of Tears 09. Winner Takes It All (Sammy Hagar cover) 10. Tired of Dreaming 11. Reality Bites 12. Close To the Bone.
SLEEPING ROMANCE: "THE PROMISE INSIDE" VIDEO RELEASED:
The symphonic metal band Sleeping Romance have released a video for the track "The Promise Inside" online. The track comes off their debut album "Enlighten" that was released on November 1st in Europe and December 3rd in North America through Ulterium Records. Check out the video here: youtu.be/BzyH2bNenPQ.
Sleeping Romance online: www.facebook.com/sleepingromanceofficial / www.sleeping-romance.com.
DOWNLOAD NEW JOHN TAGLIERI SINGLE, "WHEN I THINK ABOUT" FOR FREE!:
(23 April 2014 - Boston, MA) With 2014 already looking set to eclipse 2013, John Taglieri's most successful year to date, the Massachusetts based singer / songwriter figured he would celebrate by giving fans, old and future a free gift.
For the next week, music fans are invited to grab Taglieri's newest single, "When I Think About" from one stop entertainment outlet, Shakefire by going here. "I'm really excited to have people hear this song and give it to them for free!" says Taglieri. "When I Think About" is a fun upbeat song about life and how you spend it with people and all the memories that can create. How a single moment can make you think of a person and an event and make you smile and feel like you're there all over again!"
Never one for free time, John has been hard at work, preparing his newest release. Set for a late summer release Taglieri has enlisted A-List players such as Kenny Aronoff, Rich Redmond, Alan Jax Bowers, Lee Turner, Eric Ragno, Greg Juliano, Joe Gilder and more to play on the release. "Reaching out to some of my idols and having them say yes to playing on my EP is beyond cool for me. I'm excited at the level of talent and energy that they are bringing to the songs. We are crafting a fun upbeat Ep that's gonna make ya smile!"
WebLinks: JohnTaglieri.com / Facebook.com/JohnTaglieriMusic.
Thursday, April 24, 2014
NEW NIGHT RANGER ALBUM SET TO ROCK FANS ONCE AGAIN:
On about my 10th playback of the new Night Ranger album High Road. Awesome as always - these guys never fail to deliver. A few absolute classics in there once again - tracks that would fit nicely on any Greatest Hits combo you could work up.
The album as a whole is very diverse...lots of old and new in there. Perhaps the most diverse NR album ever - lots of influences and stuff going on. More playback required before I can put it all into perspective and rank it among all those other great albums.
The album is released worldwide via Frontiers Records June 6.
THE MARCUS HOOK ROLL BAND FEATURING MALCOLM, ANGUS & GEORGE YOUNG WITH HARRY VANDA: The Marcus Hook Roll Band Featuring Malcolm, Angus & George Young with Harry Vanda Release Rare 1973 Studio Recording
Tales of Old Grand-Daddy ~ CD/vinyl/digital download * Release date - June 3
(Los Angeles) - Just before Malcolm and Angus Young took us on a debaucherous decent down that Highway to Hell, they joined with their talented brother, George Young and guitarist Harry Vanda, to form the brief, yet musically significant group, The Marcus Hook Roll Band. Back then, there was no such person as Marcus Hook, nor did the 'band' originate from the borough of Marcus Hook in Pennsylvania. George and his fellow musicians only ever existed as a band in studio, releasing three singles and one album in the early '70s. When any of these tracks turn up on internet auction sites today, collectors bankrupt their PayPal accounts to win them. Now, The Marcus Hook Roll Band is releasing their one and only album, 1973's Tales of Old Grand-Daddy, on June 3 through Parlophone as CD/vinyl/digital download.
The truth is, if the Marcus Hook Roll Band had ever come out of the studio, played live, travelled the world, promoted their records, and found the success they certainly deserved, then the AC/DC phenomenon that electrified the rock 'n roll landscape for decades, might never have gotten off the ground. Do we have your attention now? The Marcus Hook Roll Band is one obscure, but significant, persona of the legendary partnership of Harry Vanda and George Young. Their better known personas are the '60s beat phenomenon The Easybeats, and later the mysterious entity Flash and The Pan. Dutchman Harry Vanda and Scotsman George Young first met as displaced teenagers in an immigration hostel in Sydney, Australia. Having heard the single "Natural Man", Capitol Records (USA) immediately expressed an interest in producing an album from The Marcus Hook Roll Band.
The Album - Tales of Old Grand-Daddy - The main recording was during July/August 1973 in Sydney. A key ingredient was the "duty free" supplied by producer Alan "Wally" Waller—Jim Beam Old Grand-Dad bourbon whiskey — hence the album name.
George Young explained , "We had Harry, myself and my kid brothers, Malcolm and Angus. We all got rotten, except for Angus, who was too young, and we spent a month in there boozing it up every night. That was the first thing Malcolm and Angus did before AC/DC. We didn't take it very seriously so we thought we'd include them to give them an idea of what recording was all about."
Appropriately named, engineer Richard Lush, explains, "The sessions were great fun, fuelled with plenty of Old Grand-Dad bourbon. Angus Young drank milk. Despite their youth, as we all now know, Angus and his brother Malcolm played guitars as well as Harry."
The production notes, recently unearthed at Abbey Road Studios reveal that on many of the tracks, Malcolm Young shared rhythm guitar and guitar solos. The Kentucky bourbon seems to have affected everybody's memory. For instance, there is some great slide guitar on the album but no-one can remember who supplied it. Harry thinks it might have been Kiwi-born Kevin Borich, but Kevin does not remember being there. Wally vaguely remembers Malcolm doing some slide-guitar, but really can't be sure. So the challenge for the astute listener is to figure out which licks and solos belong to a seventeen year old Angus Young. We've got our money on the second guitar in the 'Cry For Me' lead break.
Tracklisting CD & DD: 1. Can't Stand The Heat 2. Goodbye Jane 3. Quick Reaction 4. Silver Shoes & Strawberry Wine 5. Watch Her Do it Now 6. People and the Power 7. Red Revolution 8. Shot in the Head 9. Ape Man 10. Cry For Me 11. One Of These Days (Previously Unreleased) 12. Natural Man (1972 A-Side of Regal Zonophone RZ 3061) 13. Moonshine Blues (1974 B-Side of 'Can't Stand The Heat' BASF – 06 19196-0)14. Louisiana Lady (1973 A-Side of Regal Zonophone RZ 3072) 15. Ride Baby Ride (Previously Unreleased).
Vinyl: Side 1 1. Can't Stand The Heat 2. Goodbye Jane 3. Quick Reaction 4. Silver Shoes 5. Watch Her Do it Now Side 2 1. People And The Power 2. Red Revolution 3. Shot In The Head 4. Ape Man 5 Cry For Me.
ACCEPT TO TOUR AUSTRALIA:
Classic heavy metal was shaped essentially by three highly influential bands: Judas Priest, Iron Maiden and Accept. Two of these legendary acts have graced our shores several times but now finally Australia gets to witness the might of the "Teutonic Terror" themselves for the very first time as Accept are set to arrive in November 2014. Proudly representing the "Made in Germany" trademark, Accept fashioned distinct musical blueprints that have influenced multiple generations of followers. They have kept their music and artistry relevant around the world and have overcome staggering odds to maintain international careers for over three decades. Accept have released classic album after album with the likes of 'Balls To The Wall', 'Metal Heart' and 'Restless And Wild' all becoming some of the most influential and acclaimed Metallic slabs of all time. The unforgettable vocals of Udo Dirkschneider and riffs of Wolf Hoffmann / Herman Frank became a major part of 80's Heavy Metal history.
Their anthems of steel are known worldwide and are often cited as one of the earliest innovators of Speed Metal with their track "Fast As A Shark" putting the pedal to the metal like no other before them.
After some line-up changes, non-activity and reunion shows the band breathed new life in 2009 with the addition of Mark Tornillo and since recorded two of the strongest Accept albums yet in "Blood Of The Nations" and "Stalingrad" which both cracked the Billboard Top 200 chart. Accept were back, but not for nostalgia rather firing on all cylinders and as vibrant and vital as ever. Now they have another killer new album on the way titled 'Blind Rage'. Australia will witness this 'Blind Rage' as Accept grace our shores for the very first time for 3 exclusive shows. No self-respecting fan of Classic Heavy Metal should miss this tour they perform highlights from 'Blind Rage' as well as all their classic anthems – ''Balls To The Wall'', ''Fast as a Shark'', ''Metal Heart'', ''Restless and Wild'', ''Teutonic Terror'' and more!
In the last twelve months Accept have again risen to the top of the Metal elite and played at some of the largest music festivals on the globe including Sweden Rock Festival, HellFest, Bloodstock Open Air, Masters Rock and Bang Your Head. Sprinkle in some headlining shows between festival appearances and you have a normal touring schedule for this hardworking, dedicated band. 2011 marked an astonishing 67 shows in over 7 countries, in three short months. With fists in the air and crowd chanting tracks, Accept have worked tirelessly around the world and now it is Australia's time.
All tickets including VIP Meet and Greet Packages will go on sale 9am Friday 2nd May. Book your tickets here: bit.ly/1rlqpDk.
November 2014
Friday 14th @ Factory Theatre – Sydney
Saturday 15th @ The Corner Hotel – Melbourne
Sunday 16th @ The Hi Fi – Brisbane
Proudly supported by Metal Evilution, Axiom Touring & Venom.
STYX AND FOREIGNER SET TO RELEASE 'THE SOUNDTRACK OF SUMMER' TOUR COMPANION ALBUM:
April 23, 2014 – Responsible for some of Rock's most indelible summer anthems, legendary groups Foreigner and Styx will release The Soundtrack Of Summer on May 6 to coincide with their highly anticipated tour of the same name, which also features very special guest Don Felder, former guitarist of The Eagles. The album, which features 16 classics by both bands, will be available exclusively at Walmart. Pre-orders are available on Walmart's website.
The Soundtrack Of Summer package includes Foreigner hits "Cold As Ice," "Juke Box Hero" and "I Want To Know What Love Is," and Styx hits "The Grand Illusion," "Blue Collar Man" and "Renegade" (see below for a complete track listing). The collection finishes with the spectacular highlight, a brand new interpretation of one of Classic Rock's most successful songs ever, "Hotel California." Original songwriter Don Felder teamed up with Styx and Foreigner for this very special collaboration, as well as a stunning new version of Foreigner's massive hit, "I Want To Know What Love Is," which will only be available as a limited edition vinyl disc and on iTunes.
Fans can check out an exclusive stream of "Hotel California" on USA Today's website, which went live earlier today.
Here's the complete track listing of The Soundtrack Of Summer: 1. Feels Like The First Time 2. Cold As Ice 3. Hot Blooded 4. Double Vision 5. Urgent 6. Waiting For A Girl Like You 7. I Want To Know What Love Is 8. Juke Box Hero 9. The Grand Illusion 10. Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man) 11. Lorelei 12. Crystal Ball 13. Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) 14. Miss America 15. Renegade 16. Too Much Time On My Hands 17. Hotel California.
Check out "The Soundtrack of Summer" tour at any of the following stops (with more to be added in the coming weeks). Don Felder hits the stage at 7:00pm at every stop. Foreigner and Styx will alternate closing slots.
WebLinks: www.soundtrackofsummer.com / www.styxworld.com / www.foreigneronline.com.
7 HARD YEARS DEBUT SECOND PREVIEW CLIP: 7 Hard Years (7HY) presents a second sneak-preview of tracks from the upcoming album 'No Place In Heaven', due in June on the newly formed Lynchburg Records label. The album is now mastered and going to press very soon! 7HY features Alan Kelly (ex-Shy), Shawn Pelata (Line Of Fire), Roy Davis (Shy), Dave Martin (Marshall Law), and Martin Walls (After Hours) with all songs written by Alan Kelly.
Preview Video #2: youtu.be/6uDkdY0kalU
Preview Video #1: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSz1JnkMjG4
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
URIAH HEEP RETURNS WITH POWERFUL NEW RELEASE: OUTSIDER: Uriah Heep, one of the pivotal hard rock groups to emerge from England in the late 1960s returns with Outsider, its 24th studio album, and the first since 2011's critically acclaimed Into the Wild album. Outsider will be released on June 6th in Europe, June 9th in the UK and June 10th in North America on Frontiers Records. "We are very proud of our history" says founder/guitarist Mick Box, "but it is equally important to keep producing new material. This new album, Outsider, is very much a rock album in true 'Heep' style. It shows that we still have the same passion and energy for our music that we have always had."
From the opening chords of the album's hard driving rocker, "Speed of Sound", to the more introspective closer, "Say Goodbye", Outsider proves that Uriah Heep has remained a musical powerhouse, and one that can effectively balance its legendary sound with a distinctly contemporary approach. The record, which was produced by Mike Paxman (Asia, Status Quo), also introduces bassist Dave Rimmer, who joined the band last summer after the untimely death of long time member, Trevor Bolder.
Says Box of his late friend, Bolder: "We lost a world class bass player, singer, songwriter and friend. While Trevor was ill, he wanted us to continue working, so we used a bass player called Dave Rimmer, who Trevor approved of. It was only natural that Dave carried on with the band."
After major tours of Europe, Scandinavia, Russia and South America, upon the release of Outsider, Uriah Heep will launch a world tour that will take in many continents as the band promotes the new album to an eager international audience.
Formed in London in 1969 by guitarist Mick Box and late singer David Byron as "Spice", the group evolved into Uriah Heep (the name was taken from a character in Charles Dickens' novel David Copperfield) when they began conceptualizing the first record. The album Very 'eavy, Very 'umble, launched the band's distinct sound in 1970, one that was built around layered harmony vocals, swirling keyboards, and heavy guitar riffs. Current lead singer Bernie Shaw and keyboardist Phil Lanzon have been ever present since the mid-1980s, and drummer Russell Gilbrook joined Uriah Heep in 2007.
The band's repertoire features hits over five decades from the 70s through to the present day including tracks such as; "Gypsy", " Easy Livin'", "July Morning", "Look At Yourself", "Stealin'" and "Lady in Black", which went to #1 in Germany on three different occasions, and once stayed at #1 for 6 months. They have gone on to sell 40 million records, and have toured globally for 5 decades, visiting no less than 56 countries, headlining numerous festivals and arena tours, including being the first western rock band to play Russia, in 1987. Founder Mick Box has remained throughout.
Track listing for Outsider: Speed Of Sound, One Minute, The Law, The Outsider, Rock The Foundation, Is Anybody Gonna Help Me?, Looking At You, Can't Take That Away, Jessie, Kiss The Rainbow, Say Goodbye.
Uriah Heep is: Mick Box: Guitars, Vocals Phil Lanzon: Keyboards, Vocals Bernie Shaw: Lead Vocals Russell Gilbrook: Drums, Vocals Dave Rimmer: Bass, Vocals.
WebLinks: www.uriah-heep.com / www.facebook.com/uriahheepofficial.
Confirmed Tour Dates:
June
05.06.14 Solvesborg Sweden Rock Sweden
07.06.14 Espoo Kivenlahtirock Festival Finland
08.06.14 Kauhava Hotel Kauhava Finland
09.06.14 Pori Promenade-Keskus Finland
10.06.14 Salo Teatteri Provinssi Finland
11.06.14 Lahti Sibeliustalo Finland
13.06.14 Alta Alta Soul and Blues Norway
14.06.14 Haminkeln Thunderbike fest Germany
July
10.07.14 Sierre Sierre Blues Festival Switzerland
25.07.14 Nova Gorica Rock Batuje Slovenia
30.07.14 Lauchheim Schloss Kapfenburg Germany
August
01.08.14 Graz Seerock Festival Austria
06.08.14 Schaffhausen Stars In Town Switzerland
30.08.14 Stadtallendorf Summer-Rock open air Germany
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AVENUE OF ALLIES BACK WITH NEXT SONIC STATION:
On May 23rd Avenue Of Allies will release "Next Stop", the much anticipated second album by the Swedish AOR band Sonic Station. One month before the album the digital single "Amelia" will be available on April 18, accompanied by a music video for the track.
While perfect arrangements and production values of the highest order are still a trademark of the songs of guitarist, composer and producer Alexander Kronbrink and his band, the music is now focusing on the AOR side of Sonic Station. The powerful tunes have a more upbeat feeling and give more room to the guitars and with most of the musicians performing on all songs, the recordings carry the spirit of a real band performance rather than having the nature of a high profile studio project like the self-titled debut from 2012.
Alexander was brought up in a musical home in Stockholm, Sweden, where one of his friends in the neighborhood was Jonathan Fritzén, who played keyboards and the piano. Together they had jam sessions fooling around with jazz harmonies and even trying out some of their own compositions. Today Jonathan is a star in the Smooth Jazz genre with several number 1 hits on the US Billboard charts to his name. Jonathan appears on all Sonic Station albums, as does Alexander on Jonathan's solo records.
Like most teenagers Alexander was venturing into several musical genres, before a friend of his father's introduced him to the music of American guitarist Lee Ritenour, this listening experience paved the way for Alexander's own playing. Subsequently he discovered the music of some of the most influential artists of the US AOR and Westcoast genres like Steely Dan, Kenny Loggins and Toto, as well as songwriter and producer David Foster and listened to guitarists like Jay Graydon, Steve Lukather, Michael Landau and Dann Huff.
Eventually in his early twenties Alexander decided to dedicate himself completely to music. While studying music at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm, he met his now long time musical partner in crime, singer and piano player Marika Willstedt. In her home country Sweden, Marika became a household name after appearing for several seasons on a popular national TV show during prime time. In addition to her work with Sonic Station as a singer and song writer, she is also a renowned session musician and artist in her own right.
Marika recommended the most significant new addition regarding the album's personal, lead vocalist Johan Boding. After she and Johan toured together with the legendary Swedish session guitarist Janne Schaffer in 2012, Marika immediately saw Johan as the perfect lead singer for Sonic Station and he gladly accepted the invitation. When he and Alexander started doing demos for the new album they were both very excited by the magical mix of Johan's marvelous voice and Alexander's music. As a result Johan is singing eight of eleven songs on the new album "Next Stop", while Marika took over the lead vocals on the remaining three songs.
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Next Stop was recorded between February and November 2013, with Alexander playing guitar and synthesizers and taking over the production duties and handling the mix. The drums on all tracks are played by Thorleif Robertsson and the keyboards by Jonathan Fritzén. Erik Metall laid down the bass on all songs, except on "Catch Me If You Can" and "Fool For Your Love", where Mathias Garnĺs, who also co-wrote these songs together with Alexander, took over the bass parts.
Musical guest contributions come from Arvid Svenungsson with additional synthesizers on "Stopped Beating", Andreas Ekstedt added another component that makes the album come alive by playing percussions and violinist Conny Lindgren wrote and performed, the violin arrangements for the three ballads "Fool For Your Love", "Broken Man" and "Hide And Seek". The co-writers Matilda Bĺdagĺrd, Mathias Garnĺs, Morgan Lydemo, Anders von Hofsten, Rebecca Petersson, Emma Essinger and Matilda Lindell added a variety of moods and feelings to the AOR tunes of "Next stop".
Following the album release Sonic Station will treat fans of prime AOR in the vein of Work Of Art, Lionville, The Theander Expression and Mecca with several live performances during the coming months.
Track Listing: 1) Amelia 2) Catch Me If You Can 3) Brighter After Dark 4) Fool For Your Love 5) Stopped Beating 6) Where Are You Now? 7) Half Of My Heart 8) Broken Man 9) Love Clash 10) Last Goodbye 11) Hide And Seek.
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Sonic Station musicians on all songs except as noted: Johan Boding: Lead vocals on tracks 1,2,4,5,7,8,9,10 and background vocals; Marika Willstedt: Lead vocals on tracks 3,6,11 and background vocals; Alexander Kronbrink: Guitar, synthesizers, drum programming on track 4 and background vocals; Jonathan Fritzén: Keyboards; Erik Metall: Bass (except tracks 2,4); Thorleif Robertsson: Drums (except track 4); Additional musicians: Mathias Garnĺs: Bass on tracks 2,4 and background vocals; Arvid Svenungsson: Additional synthesizers on track 5; Andreas Ekstedt: Percussion on tracks 4,5,6,7,8,10,11; Conny Lindgren: Strings on tracks 4,8,11; Matilda Bĺdagĺrd: Background vocals; Matilda Lindell: Background vocals; Rebecca Petersson: Background vocals; Uffe Söderberg: Background vocals.
WebLinks: www.sonic-station.com / www.avenue-of-allies.com.
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RICK SPRINGFIELD - BACK TO ROCK OZ IN OCTOBER:
Australia's Rick Springfield, the Grammy award-winning musician, actor and New York Times best-selling author is returning to rock Oz in October, with a national tour opening in Perth on 7 October.
It has been a while since Australian audiences have seen Rick Springfield in concert with his own band, although he was the headliner for the Countdown Spectacular tour of 2007 and a very privileged few witnessed him live in a wine bar in a Melbourne suburb one Sunday afternoon in July 2012 while he was on holiday visiting family. Link: youtu.be/4iJGy0-VzNs
Rick stunned Australian audience's during The Countdown Spectacular tour when he delivered a full on rock show with hit after hit. And there is a lot of reminding to remember!
With 25 million records sold, multiple top-40 hits, including Don't Talk to Strangers, An Affair of the Heart, I've Done Everything for You, Love Somebody and Speak To The Sky, as well as a 1981 Grammy® for Best Male Rock Vocal for his No. 1 hit single "Jessie's Girl," He also introduced and had his own hit with the Mondo Rock classic 'State Of The Heart' in America. Rick Springfield's shows are legendary for their rock, high energy, full band sets and classic song lists. According to many, Springfield live is more aligned to Springsteen because of his rock'n'roll style performances. He even once recorded the song Bruce in recognition of this. Touring Australia with his band has been something Rick has been eager to do for a long time "I am and will always be an Aussie. My best memories of my early career are all centred around Australia. It will forever be my home. I cant believe I have never done a full tour in Oz as a solo performer. I am a F***ing Aussie boy."
Rick Springfield started his celebrated career in Australia in the 60's as one of the original members of Mike Brady's MPD Ltd. In 1969 he joined the band Zoot, with Beeb Birtles (pre-Little River Band), Rick Brewer (pre-The Ferrets) and Darryl Cotton (who would go on to have his own solo career and become a children's TV host). Zoot was where Rick developed his rock and roll grounding, co-writing two of their singles 'Hey Pinky' and 'Freak'. The band is best remembered for their top 10 chart with a hard rock cover version of the Beatles 'Eleanor Rigby'. Rick reformed the band in November 2011 with Darryl's passing the following year more shows were not possible.
Following the breakup of Zoot in 1970, Rick was Russell Morris' bass player for a few months before he released his debut single 'Speak To The Sky' which made the top 10 in Australia and the US Top 20. In 1972 he released his first solo album, Beginnings before he relocated to the US later the same year. 40 years later, he is a special guest on Russell's new album 'Van Dieman's Land'.
Once in the US, Springfield continued to record and perform live before beginning a new career as a TV actor appearing in 'The Rockford Files' and 'Wonder Woman', before landing the lead, as Dr. Noah Drake, in 'General Hospital' a role that won him a legion of fans.
Rick's star was well and truly on the rise when he released his album, 'Working Class Dog', which became a smash hit in 1980 and spawned the number one hit 'Jessie's Girl'. In the following years he continued to record and perform live along with appearances in films and TV shows and on Broadway in the musical 'Smokey Joe's Cafe'. His role as Dr Noah in General Hospital was reprised following a 23-year absence. He was recently the centrepiece of the plot of David Duchovny's Californication third season playing a very lovable but degenerate character named …Rick Springfield. Rick has also appeared in an episode of Hawaii Five-0, and Drop Dead Diva. Jessie's Girl is featured in Laryngitis, the eighteenth episode of Season one of Glee and was also performed at the 2011 Glee Live! Concert and Glee: The 3D Concert Movie.
In 2010, Rick released his autobiography, Late, Late at Night. It entered The New York Times best-seller list at No. 13 and hit the Los Angeles Times and Publishers Weekly lists as well. Rolling Stone named it one of the top-25 rock autobiographies of all time. In 2012 Springfield's documentary An Affair of the Heart, which captured the close ties between Springfield and his fans, debuted at numerous film festivals and won special jury awards at the Nashville, Florida, Boston, and Daytona Film Festivals. In 2013 Springfield teamed up with Dave Grohl on Grohl's multi-faceted passion project, Sound City, which encompassed a documentary (Sound City), an album (Sound City: Real to Reel), and the Sound City Players tour, a string of critically acclaimed shows with fellow documentary subjects including Stevie Nicks, Trent Reznor, John Fogerty, and Sir Paul McCartney among others. Each artist's set was backed by Grohl's hand-picked all-star band. Springfield and Grohl co-wrote The Man That Never Was, which has been widely recognized by critics as one of the best songs on the Sound City album.
In 2014 Rick Springfield's first novel, Magnificent Vibration will be released and in addition he will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He will hit the road with Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo for a multi-city tour of the States – and of course we will see him for his October tour of Australia. With all this and more, Springfield shows no signs of slowing down.
Australian Tour Dates:
Perth Tue-7Oct Crown Theatre Ticketek 132 849
Brisbane Thu-9Oct Eatons Hill Hotel Oz Tix 1300-762 545
Tweed Heads Fri-10Oct Twin Towns Services Inhouse 1800-014 014
Sydney Sat-11Oct Revesby Workers - Whitlam Theatre, Inhouse 02-9772 2100
Canberra Mon 13Oct Royal Theatre Ticketek 132 849
Sydney Tue-14Oct Enmore Theatre, Ticketek 132 849
Hobart Thu 16Oct Wrest Point entertainment Centre TixTas 1300 795 257
Melbourne Fri-17-Oct Palais Theatre, Ticketmaster 136 100
Adelaide Sat-18Oct Thebarton Theatre, Venue Tix 08-8225 8888
SEBASTIAN BACH'S NEW VIDEO "ALL MY FRIENDS ARE DEAD" HAS EXCLUSIVE WORLDWIDE PREMIERE:
In honor of the release of iconic rock vocalist Sebastian Bach's new album, Give 'Em Hell, fans globally can click here to check out the exclusive worldwide premiere of the new video for "All My Friends Are Dead" on USAToday.com. The hard-rocking performance video features longtime Bach friend and fellow rock icon, Duff McKagan, who plays bass on the track. "All My Friends Are Dead" appears on Give 'Em Hell, which is in stores now on Frontiers Records.
Give 'Em Hell has already rave reviews from the media with Screamer Magazine declaring, "Bach's signature voice is unmistakable and as always almost indescribable, hard to compare with anything else. His vocals are gritty, powerful…" while Loudwire avowed, "Bach sounds better than ever…" Produced, mixed and recorded by Bob Marlette (Black Sabbath, Shinedown, Alice Cooper) and mastered by Tom Baker (Nine Inch Nails, Rob Zombie, Seether), GIVE 'EM HELL features writing and playing by very special friends and guest stars: Duff McKagan (Velvet Revolver, Guns N' Roses), John 5 (Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie) and Steve Stevens (Billy Idol). Rounding up the lineup on the album are Devin Bronson on guitars and Bobby Jarzombek on drums.
In other news, Sebastian Bach will appear on the new ABC reality competition show, Sing Your Face Off, which premieres with two back-to-back episodes on Saturday, May 31 at 9:00PM. "Sing Your Face Off" is a talent variety competition featuring celebrities who are transformed and trained to perform as a legendary musical icon. Bach is one of five celebrities competing who will take on the identity of an iconic musical performer. Based on Endemol's global hit "Your Face Sounds Familiar," "Sing Your Face Off" is produced by Endemol USA. Georgie Hurford-Jones ("America's Got Talent," "Britain's Got Talent") is Executive Producer.
Sebastian Bach has sold in excess of 20 million records worldwide as lead singer with his former band, Skid Row and as a solo artist. Far from just being a multi-platinum recording artist, the singer/songwriter/actor/entertainer has expanded his career over the past decade to include episodic television with a 5-season recurring role on the CW's hit series "Gilmore Girls", starring roles on Broadway ("Jekyll & Hyde", "The Rocky Horror Picture Show") and national touring companies ("Jesus Christ Superstar"), and has appeared regularly on MTV and VH1.
Bach on the web: www.sebastianbach.com / www.facebook.com/sebastianbach / www.frontiers.it.
CALIFORNIA BREED PREMIERE MAKING OF THE ALBUM SERIES TODAY, APRIL 22 ON GUITAR WORLD.COM: California Breed, the powerful new rock trio featuring legendary vocalist-bassist Glenn Hughes, drummer extraordinaire Jason Bonham and 23-year-old newcomer guitarist-singer-songwriter Andrew Watt, have premiered the first in a series of "making of" clips from the recording of their self-titled debut album, out May 19 on Frontiers Records. Watch the first clip today, April 22 exclusively on guitarworld.com, here: tinyurl.com/mh5uycb. Tune into guitarworld.com every Tuesday for the next five weeks for another interview with the band.
Mixing massive riffs, gutsy vocals and gale force rhythms, the hard-hitting trio's first single "Sweet Tea" has hit #7 on the Classic Rock chart and continues to climb. View the video for the explosive track which premiered on USA Today, here: tinyurl.com/mmp7mxq. Recently, the group debuted an animated lyric video for the new song "Midnight Oil" on Classic Rock. The video was created by Nev Todorovi who spearheads the interactive media production company The Young Astronauts. Check out the clip here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=qF_pm7mLqXs.
California Breed was produced by Dave Cobb (Jamey Johnson, Rival Sons, Shooter Jennings), recorded at his Nashville studio and features equal co-writing credits among the three-man lineup. The album features 23-year-old guitarist Andrew Watt, who was originally introduced to Glenn Hughes by Julian Lennon at a party in Los Angeles in 2013. Expect California Breed to announce a U.K., European and U.S. tour soon.
California Breed will be available as a CD, digital download and a Deluxe Edition CD + DVD featuring the bonus song "Solo," two video clips and a documentary. Fans that pre-order the digital download on iTunes will receive an instant download of the first single, "Sweet Tea" upon ordering.
WebLinks: www.californiabreed.com / www.facebook.com/CaliforniaBreed.
"ROCKERS AGAINST TRAFFICKING" BENEFIT RAISES OVER $10,000 TO BATTLE HUMAN TRAFFICKING:
Veteran photographer Kevin Estrada's Rockers Against Trafficking benefit to help raise awareness of human trafficking this past April 11th at Paladino's in Tarzana, CA (sponsored by Monster Energy) was an amazing success. All of the proceeds from the show will be used to rebuild the lives of these young victims with housing, medical assistance, legal aid, and job placement, and the donations will also be used to build and set up border monitoring stations between countries that are known for human trafficking. All proceeds will be divided between CAST LA (www.castla.org) and Tiny Hands International (www.tinyhandsinternational.org).
A completely packed venue witnessed a silent auction and raffle, with highlights including a Schecter guitar signed by all the musicians (for which a bidding war broke out!), a DW Collectors Series snare signed by all the musicians, a signed Motley Crue 'Greatest Hits' 2-LP Set and a signed drum cymbal by the Cult. There were also a few impromptu live auctions on stage offering a very rare guitar pick owned and used by Dimebag Darrell, and a pair of drumsticks – signed on stage by a sweaty DDave Lombardo just as he finished his set.
Performance highlights included a blistering set by Helmet, a gritty and fire fueled debut performance by Randy Piper's F-4, and a mind-blowing all star set by Chris Broderick (Megadeth), Dave Lombardo (Slayer/Philm), Robert DeLeo (Stone Temple Pilots), and Keith St. John (Montrose). The heaviness was balanced out with touching acoustic moments by Burton C. Bell of Fear Factory and an uplifting acoustic set by Gonzo and Phil Sandoval of Armored Saint. To Humans, Spiders and Snakes and Edge Of Paradise and Ann Boleyn's Hellion set helped round out the night and kept the crowd energized.
While the music was outstanding, the audience continued to be educated throughout the evening about the dangers of the human trafficking epidemic. One portion of the evening that really hit home was an eye opening and heart breaking speech by a Burbank, CA mother whose daughter was kidnapped and forced into the world of human trafficking. The show was also dedicated to two missing girls, Ali and Savannah. The loudest audience cheer of the entire event was when Estrada announced from the stage, "Hopefully the next Rockers Against Trafficking concert will be to celebrate Ali and Savannah as they are rescued and reunited with their families." "Besides being a photographer, I am a dad – that is my top priority in life," adds Estrada. "I am so thankful to all the artists that donated their time and talents. The event was a huge success, I am very happy with the outcome. We have so many great supporters behind us and we gained many more that evening. Rockers Against Trafficking is here to stay."
For more information or to make a donation, please visit: www.RockersAgainstTrafficking.org / www.facebook.com/RockersAgainstTrafficking.
STRANGE KARMA SET TO ISSUE NEW SINGLE, "DEVIL FROM THE MOON":
Led by the Australian brother duo of Martin and Paul Strange (who supply vocals and guitar, respectively), Strange Karma is set to unleash a brand new single, "Devil from the Moon, via iTunes on Tuesday, April 22nd (on Flexitone Records). For fans that simply cannot wait until that day, you can get a sneak peak of the song via this purchase link: itunes.apple.com/album/devil-from-the-moon-single/id853946945.
"Devil from the Moon" also serves as a prelude to the group's upcoming, yet-to-be-titled album, which was produced and engineered by Grammy nominated David Ivory. "Working on the new album with David was an unforgettable experience," the brothers recall. "He instinctively recognized what was necessary to manifest the essence of Strange Karma and mould it into something that appeals to a worldwide audience. During our collaboration, David connected with us both on a musical and personal level. His intrinsic ability as a producer to bring out the best in us as musicians has led to the creation of an authentic live performance experience and an honest representation of the Strange Karma sound."
Martin also discussed how the new song came to be: "Devil From The Moon emerged from a guitar riff my brother Paul (Strange) created. We kicked it around the studio for some time and out of the blue, the line 'devil from the moon' just came to me. From there, the lyric manifested seamlessly into a song - an entity that demands allegiance from its audience! For us, lyric and melody are of equal importance - neither takes precedence in our songwriting and each is imperative in the telling of the story. People who have seen us perform already know that Strange Karma has always strived to create music that also incorporates a theatrical element - we want our audiences not only to be moved by our music, but to 'live' the experience created with every note, every drum beat, every word. As the lead single from our new album, we believe 'Devil from the Moon' delivers the high-voltage energy and excitement the fans have come to expect from Strange Karma. It's been a long time coming, but we're confident the collaboration of haunting guitar riffs and menacing lyrics on 'Devil from the Moon' makes this track a compelling listen."
Strange Karma's first album, Volume 1, was issued in 2011 and racked up countless accolades from the music press, perhaps most flattering of all being WeLoveMetal.com, who said, "I'm going to start this is a big way. Who in the hell needs a Led Zeppelin reunion when we have a band with the sound of Strange Karma? These guys are the second coming of the music that started it all."ť Additionally, Matt O'Shaughnessy from WVOX Metal Mayhem said "Strange Karma is one of the most refreshing and highly innovative bands I have ever had the pleasure of spinning on air."
Judging from "Devil from the Moon," Strange Karma's upcoming sophomore disc will expand on the promise of their debut effort. Go ahead and start setting your "expectation meters" high!
For More Info, Visit: www.strangekarma.net / www.facebook.com/pages/Strange-Karma/157783670932214.
ROBIN TROWER REDEFINES R&B POWER TRIO ON 1974 BRIDGE OF SIGHS:
North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the 40th anniversary of Bridge of Sighs, the breakthrough solo effort from former Procol Harum guitarist Robin Trower.
Robin Trower got his musical career start with The Paramounts, an early sixties British rhythm'n'blues band, who were a favorite opening act for fledgling up & comers The Rolling Stones. Paramounts singer Gary Brooker would leave and form Procol Harum producing the international hit "A Whiter Shade of Pale", and that initial success would lead to the addition of Trower's services in Procol Harum for the next several albums.
Robin Trower would leave the security of Procol Harum to embark on a solo career fashioned around an R&B trio that in April of 1974 would produce their second album, the monster effort Bridge of Sighs. A Top 10 album in the U.S., Bridge of Sighs opened with the galloping "Day of the Eagle", transporting listeners into an almost alien world in the title track "Bridge of Sighs", seducing them with the late Jimmy Dewar's voice on "In This Place" and "About to Begin" , while rocking out again on "Too Rolling Stoned", "Fool and Me", "Lady Love", and "Little Bit of Sympathy".
On Bridge of Sighs 40th anniversary, Robin reflects on his role in the evolution of blues rock guitar in popular music with InTheStudio host Redbeard. "I always saw myself as a Rock and Roll player influenced by Blues/Rhythm and Blues rather than trying to think of myself as a blues or rhythm and blues player, because it can only ever be an imitation for a white guy to do that stuff."
Robin Trower 'Bridge of Sighs' / InTheStudio interview is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/robin-trower-bridge-sighs-40th-anniversary
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
LILLIAN AXE - ONE NIGHT AT THE TEMPLE EPK LAUNCHED:
Louisiana Music Hall of Fame members, Lillian Axe, will be releasing their thirteenth album, the acoustic live, One Night in the Temple, produced by Steve Blaze, on May 27, 2014 via CME Records / Sony Music (RED) in the USA and Canada and on Melodic Rock Records / Cargo for the rest of the world on May 19. Performed acoustically in an intimate setting housed in a Masonic Temple in the Bayou, with their most die-hard fans, One Night in the Temple, features all their hits including, True Believer, Show A Little Love, Crucified, Misery Loves Company, Ghost of Winter, The Great Divide, Bow Your Head, Waters Rising and the crowd favorite Nobody Knows. Lillian Axe founder Steve Blaze reflects; "when I first had the idea of putting this show together, it was originally going to be a private 20 person show with acoustic guitars, vocals and no production, however, it took on a life of its own."
One Night in the Temple; will be released as 3 disc set (2CDs/1DVD and 2CDs/1Blu-Ray), housed in an elaborate Digipak. Filmed in high definition, the Blu-Ray will contain the acoustic performance, fan question and answer session, videos for the songs Caged In and Death Comes Tomorrow, featuring 3 songs live in concert from their July 4, 2013 performance at the Paragon Casino and behind the scenes footage while the DVD will contain 1 song from the Paragon Casino and the video for Death Comes Tomorrow.
Full Track Listing: Disc 1: Waters Rising, Death Comes Tomorrow, Ghost of Winter, See You Someday, The Great Divide, Nocturnal Symphony, Sad Day On Planet Earth, Bow Your Head, Show A Little Love and Misery Loves Company. Disc 2: Crucified, The World Stopped Turning, Dyin' to Live (Shades of Blue), Until The End Of The World, The Day I Met You, The Promised Land, Nobody Knows, My Apologies, True Believer and Nobody Knows (Crowd Version).
Lillian Axe is Brian Jones (lead vocals), Steve Blaze (guitar and vocals), Sam Poitevent (guitar and vocals), Eric Morris (bass guitar) and Ken Koudelka (drums).
Lillian Axe will be touring to support this release this summer beginning in the middle of July.
NEAL SCHON AND SEBASTIAN BACH LAUNCH VIDEOS: Neal Schön fans can click here to check out the exclusive worldwide premiere of the video for "What You Want" on Ultimate Classic Rock. The smoking new track/video is taken from the forthcoming jazz and blues-inspired hard rock studio album, SO U, and includes vocals by bassist Marco Mendoza and Schön, as well as drummer Deen Castronovo. So U features Schön along with Mendoza (Black Star Riders, Ted Nugent, Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy) and Castronovo (Journey, Ozzy Osbourne, Steve Vai, Hardline) splitting vocal and writing duties, with many of the tracks also co-written by Night Ranger/Damn Yankee's songwriter, singer and bassist Jack Blades.
Sebastian Bach fans across the globe can check out the exclusive worldwide premiere of the new video for the track "Taking Back Tomorrow" on Guitar World.com. The graphic novel-inspired lyric video features Bach seamlessly interspersed with comic book-like graphics. "Taking Back Tomorrow" appears on Bach's forthcoming album, Give 'Em Hell. Give 'Em Hell is due out in Europe on April 18th and in North America on April 22nd via Frontiers Records and is already receiving rave reviews with Screamer Magazine declaring, "Bach's signature voice is unmistakable and as always almost indescribable, hard to compare with anything else. His vocals are gritty, powerful…" Fans who pre-order the album now from iTunes will receive instant grat tracks of "Temptation" as well as "Hell Inside My Head." The album may also be pre-ordered at Amazon here. Bach will take to the road for select tour dates around the album's release; please see below for the itinerary.
Produced, mixed and recorded by Bob Marlette (Black Sabbath, Shinedown, Alice Cooper) and mastered by Tom Baker (Nine Inch Nails, Rob Zombie, Seether), Give 'Em Hell features writing and playing by very special friends and guest stars: Duff McKagan (Velvet Revolver, Guns N' Roses), John 5 (Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie) and Steve Stevens (Billy Idol). Rounding up the lineup on the album are Devin Bronson on guitars and Bobby Jarzombek on drums.
HEAVEN & EARTH ANNOUNCES NEW MEMBERS: Heaven & Earth are pleased to announce two new members into the fold. The first is seasoned bass player/vocalist Lynn Sorensen from Paul Rodgers/Bad Company. The second is one of Australia's premier drummers, Jackie Barnes, son of Australian singing legend Jimmy Barnes. Say's singer Joe Retta: "I'm excited to announce and welcome two new members to Heaven & Earth. Lynn and Jackie are right out of the Rock n Roll mould and a perfect fit for this band. Both with a classic and authentic R&R feel that round out our sound like a cement bubble. These two multi instrumentalists are also fine singers too and that's a "hell yeah"ť from me."
Lynn Sorensen has been Paul Rodgers long time bass player and backing vocalist for over 10 years and moved over to Bad Company with Paul when he reformed Bad Company in 2008. Lynn Sorensen stated: "As a long-time fan of Heaven And Earth it is an honor to have the opportunity to play with them. The Dig album simply blows my mind."
Jackie Barnes graduated from Berklee with a Bachelor of Music in 2010 and has played on over 50 international releases including 5 DVDs and has worked with artists such as Cold Chisel, Keith Urban, Joe Bonamassa, Journey, Steve Morse, Bob Daisley, The Ten Tenors, Diesel, Andrew Roachford, Mahalia Barnes, EJ Barnes, Evil J + Saint Cecilia, The Madden Brothers, Mica Paris, Glenn Hughes, Reece Mastin, Moussa Diakit and Steve Van Zandt.
Say's Jackie: "I am extremely excited to be the new drummer for Heaven and Earth. As soon as I heard the music I knew this was a project I wanted to be a part of, and I am excited to work with the rest of the guys to make this band even better. I also look forward to performing in front of new audiences and meeting new fans across the globe."
The band enter rehearsals next month to prepare for their European tour starting at the Birmingham O2 Academy in the U.K. on June 26th
WebLinks: www.heavenandearthband.com / www.facebook.com/officialheavenandearth / jackiebarnes.com.au / www.lynnsorensen.com.
xx
JACK RUSSELL'S QUESTIONABLE GIG BOOKING RESULTS IN ALMOST EMPTY GIG:
Worst gig ever. And I don't mean the performance - Jack Russell sounds like he is in pretty good vocal form here, but whoever booked him this gig needs to be fired. Now. Here is a clip of Jack Russell's Great White performing at the Sun Bank National Center in Trenton, NJ on 4/19/14 to an empty arena... The Trenton Freedom are an indoor football team in its first year and apparently haven't really been advertising and this show was scheduled after the football game. Check it out:
'THE BEST' FROM JOHN WAITE DUE IN MAY: John Waite has announced a new compilation, set for release in May. Titled "The Best", the CD/Digital will feature the following tracks: Back On My Feet Again (newly re-recorded), Isn't It Time (newly re-recorded), Rough & Tumble, Missing You (newly re-recorded), If You Ever Get Lonely, Better Off Gone, Suicide Life, Change (live), Every Time I Think Of You (live), Head First (live), Evil (live), Saturday Night (live), Bluebird Café (unplugged), I'm Ready (unplugged), In Dreams, The Hard Way, Downtown, Missing You (duet with Alison Krauss).
At John's site (www.johnwaiteworldwide.com/store) he details the thought process behind the release: "I suppose the idea for BEST came to me last December. I was in Beverly Hills just walking in the rain. There was an exhibition of the photography of Richard Avedon and I'd always been interested in his work so I thought I'd check it out, get out of the rain for a while and then get a glass of wine. I remember a huge white wall with at least 60 different photos–all figurative stuff, all different. It was a very '60s approach. I write, play and sing music but I'm also very interested in art. I don't really see the difference in the different mediums; literature, painting, acting, etc., it's all expression. I saw the pictures presented that way and considered what its counterpart would be musically and BEST came out of that. I didn't want to do the obvious thing and simply put out a "Greatest Hits" record as anyone can do that through iTunes. Just download a play list and hey, "presto."
This collection is called BEST because it's my best. It's me putting together my favorite work and it's totally subjective; I had no one to answer to but myself. It was, I have to say, great fun. I re-sang "Missing You" and "Back On My Feet Again" as the lyrics and melodies had been written literally hours or at most a day before recording the originals so long ago. I always felt I could "do" them better and bring something to them that I'd missed, update the production and make them more vital. And besides, a retrospective was a nice way of looking at my work. I wanted to connect the dots as much for myself as for anyone who might hear it.
I set about the task at hand on my return from England on New Year's Eve. I'd been making lists over the holidays and decided to simply follow my heart. There was no way I could exclude "Bluebird Café" or "Suicide Life." I also wanted to add live tracks from my great live band–Tim Hogan (bass), Kerri Kelli (guitar) and Rhondo (drummer)–and I remembered I had a steaming unreleased version of "Every Time I Think Of You" from last year that was so real it bordered on '60s soul music. My duet with Alison Krauss on "Missing You" was important to me on a profound level as it showed my love for country, bluegrass and in fact, Alison, whilst "Rough and Tumble" was pure blues rock."
Each copy is autographed personally by John over his actual thumbprint. Order via: www.johnwaiteworldwide.com/store.
FIREWORKS 63 OUT NOW: Fireworks #63 heralds another step forward, now coming in perfect bound format with 100 pages every issue! We haven't scrimped on the features either, as Glenn Hughes talks about the demise of successful supergroup Black Country Communion and how he teamed up with Jason Bonham to put together the impressive new power trio California Breed. Former Skid Row vocalist Sebastian Bach enthuses about his brand new solo album, while Asia vocalist John Wetton tells us about the band's new album and bringing in new blood to replace Steve Howe. Magnum release another great record which Bob Catley is only too happy to talk about, and Winger explode back with a brand new album.
That's not all, as we have Ian Anderson, Black Label Society, H.e.a.t, Daughtry, Gotthard, Patti Russo, Sonata Arctica, Vanden Plas and many, many more - 33 interviews in total! With the usual in-depth reviews of new albums, live concerts and DVDs, along with dedicated features on books and EPs, Fireworks is indispensable in helping you figure out what to spend your hard earned cash on! If that wasn't enough, you'll find a CD attached to the issue which contains 71 tracks in mp3 format - yes, SEVENTY THREE… along with a 22 page PDF about the bands featured, absolutely free! If you can find a better value magazine for Ł4.99, we'd love to know about it!
Available from - Participating WHSmith and McColls Group stores (see Store Finder for participating stockists) - Fireworks Magazine Mini Shop - From the Rocktopia Download Store. A digital PDF copy for your mobile device or eBook reader sells for only Ł3. Each issue can be downloaded immediately and comes with the full cover CD in MP3 format. Please Note: Not all issues of Fireworks come with a free bonus disc)
- Direct from Fireworks HQ by emailing fireworks.mag@ntlworld.com, paying via Paypal. Send Ł6 (inc P&P) for UK, Ł8.50 (inc P&P) Europe, and Ł9.50 (inc P&P) for USA/Rest of World.
INTERNATIONAL RELEASE FOR ELECTRIC GUITARS DUE MAY:
When Danish rock n' roll band Electric Guitars released their debut album last year, it caused quite a stir in their homeland - to such an extent that it even made the news on national television. Now the album is ready for international release May 26. The two guitar virtuosos behind Electric Guitars, Soren Andersen and Mika Vandborg, had succeeded in bringing ten of the best Danish guitarists of all time on one track, called 'Hero of Mine'. A homage to the electric guitar and some of the Danish legends who have played it. On the 10 minute long track you can listen to solos by Tim Christensen of Dizzy Mizz Lizzy for instance, Jacob Binzer of D-A-D, Billy Cross who played with Bob Dylan in the late 70s and not least Franz Beckerlee of the legendary 70s Danish rockband Gasolin' - as well as, naturally, Andersen and Vandborg themselves.
The track is an historic event, masterminded by two of the hottest Danish guitarists, who started performing together as Electric Guitars in 2012. Their shows were such a success that the next logical step was to work on an album. The result of which included 'Hero of Mine', took Denmark by storm, and it's now seeing a release in the rest of Europe and USA, followed by a tour in Germany.
Although the self-titled album by Electric Guitars is the band's debut, these two guys are far from rookies. Soren Andersen is perhaps best known as the guitarist in White Lion (Mike Tramp's former band) and for the five last years as the guitarist in Glenn Hughes band (former vocalist and bassist of Deep Purple). In fact, Electric Guitars were chosen as warm up band for the recent Deep Purple concert in Denmark.
Over the years, the two self-proclaimed guitar nerds, have been in countless bands, appeared on dozens upon dozens of successful albums in Denmark, with groups like Gnags and Love Shop. They have also released their own solo albums; one of such by Mika Vandborg included the former front-man from The Darkness, Justin Hawkins. Add to that Soren Andersen's appearances with Marco Mendoza, Dave Mustaine, Billy Sheehan and Tommy Aldridge, and one can quickly see that the these two incredible guitarists have worked with their fair share of talents artists.
However, now it is time for the duos own version of straight forward, back to the roots, no nonsense classic rock with strong melodies - recorded with drummer Morten Hellborn and bassist Peter Kjřbsted. This is 4 guys, playing 12 maximum energy rock 'n' roll songs, with the electric guitar in the center stage... Get ready to turn up your amplifier!
WebLinks: www.electricguitars.dk / www.facebook.com/ElectricGuitarsDK / www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZXMnQ-OCNs.
ROCKNATION ISSUE 21 OUT NOW: Rocknation Issue 21 is now available featuring exclusive interviews with Helix, Laney's Legion, Babylon A.D., Moonshine, Scream Maker, Lance King and more! Also a Perris Records FREE CD sampler featuring 99 bands a new worlds record. Featuring new music from Helix, Babylon A.D., Moonshine, Scream Maker, Humbucker, Tiles, Lance King, Scelerata, Spheric Universe Experience, Warnot also featuring music from current and former members of Alice Cooper, Van Halen, Megadeth, Foreigner, Vince Neil, Skid Row, Testament, Dangerous Toys, Dirty Looks, Wasp, Slash's Snakepit, Warrant, Ratt, LA Guns and more.
CD Samplers are available in 100 CD Stores nationwide, stores are listed in this Issue on page 23. (CD Samplers are limited in quantity) CD sampler is also available for a FREE download at: www.rocknation.us and www.perrisrecords.com / www.rocknation.us/issue21.
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TSO'S TOMMY FARESE TO PRODUCE NEW PROG-ROCK ALBUM:
Founding Trans-Siberian Orchestra member Tommy Farese to produce new album by prog-rockers Wizards of Winter. Tour to include both Farese and Tony Gaynor. Wizards of Winter, known for their high energy and classically-infused-rock concerts, are excited to announce that they are in the midst of recording the follow-up to their critically-acclaimed Tales Beneath a Northern Star album. To help bring this new epic project to life, the band enlisted legendary vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Tommy Farese to produce the album. Tommy also has plans to lend his voice to a song or two to the recording.
Known throughout North America for his long and storied connection to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Farese helped found that act and served as lead vocalist and guitarist for their first 13 tours. In addition to fronting the act for over a decade, Farese also starred in TSO's TV movie "The Ghosts of Christmas Eve", playing the role of the runaway's father.
After touring with The Wizards of Winter as a special guest this past winter, Farese says "I'm excited to work with this great group of musicians again. Producing is one of my favorite things to do. They asked me on board to produce and sing a song or two and it was an instant 'yes'."
Though full tour details have not yet been announced, both Farese and founding TSO narrator Tony Gaynor – both of whom guested with the Wizards last year – will join the band once again for their 2014 Winter Tour. Says Gaynor: "2014 is proving to be a very rewarding year for me, after the last few years of nothing but pure survival. With so much on my plate already this year, I was honored to be asked by the Wizards to join their 2014 tour at the end of the year. I had such a wonderful time this past year touring with this group of talented musicians, who do it strictly for the love it. There is no better feeling for an artist, then being at the beginning of a project, and watching it grow. They have opened their hearts to me and always made me feel welcomed. I am looking forward to raising the bar even higher on my abilities and bringing some new and exciting energy and showmanship to the table. I'm getting older, but thank God I'm getting better!"
"The Wizards are extremely honored to have Tommy and Tony accept our offers to join us on tour again this year." stated Scott Kelly, leader of The Wizards of Winter. "As Tony states, when we first came together with these talented gentlemen last year, it just felt right. We worked together as if we had been old friends for many years. The overwhelmingly positive response we received from the fans was validation that we had a good thing going here. I am excited for the chance to get to do it again for a larger and broader audience. In our view, having Tommy assist us on the production of the album seemed to be a natural extension of this joint success. He has such a great ear and is such a stickler for detail that I know his input will help us deliver a better end product. All of us are very happy that he graciously accepted our offer to be our producer".
For more information: www.thewizardsofwinter.com.
SKID ROW 'UNITED WORLD REBELLION – PART 2' EP OUT AUGUST 5:
April 14, 2014 -- Skid Row--Johnny Solinger (vocals), Scotti Hill (guitar), Rachel Bolan (bass), Snake Sabo (guitar) and Rob Hammersmith (drums)will be a long way from home throughout the summer. First, the band is teaming up with Black Star Riders for a brief tour of the west coast, which starts May 8 in Tucson, AZ at the Rialto Theatre. Once that concludes on May 16, the band will play headlining shows across the U.S., including a stop at the legendary Whisky a Go Go in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, May 17 and an appearance at this year's Rocklahoma festival on May 23 in Pryor, OK. They'll then head to Europe in June for various festivals, including the Download Festival in Donington, England on June 14. Once the U.S. trek concludes in July, Skid Row will head to Kostrzyn, Poland, where they've been invited to headline one of the biggest festivals in Europe, the Woodstock Festival Poland on July 31.
All of this touring is getting their loyal fans ready for the highly anticipated new seven-song EP, United World Rebellion Part 2, set for release August 5 via Megaforce Records. After a hiatus that started in 1996, Skid Row returned to the big stageliterally--opening for KISS in 2000. Exhilarated to tour with the heroes who rallied them in the first place, the band was reinvigorated by being underdogs who needed to come out fighting to prove themselves. "When we put the band back together, we needed to reintroduce Skid Row as relevant without relying too much on past success," explains bassist Rachel Bolan. "We wrote songs and hit the road. We sunk our heart and soul into it, letting people know we weren't doing it for lack of something better to do."
2003's Thickskin and 2006's Revolutions Per Minute were battle plans for hundreds of live shows with new singer Johnny Solinger out front, every night being a hard fought battle to win new fans and convince the old ones. United World Rebellion Part 2 is Skid Row coming out swinging. Rachel and guitarist Snake Sabo tapped again into the potent songwriting collaboration that built the band. Sabo says they were eagerly up to the challenge. "We seem to be at our best when we're faced with adversity. It's us against the world again--and by us I mean the band and the fans who stick with us and carry the Skid Row torch without fail."
New plans came together in an Atlanta recording studio. But it's a different time, a different industry, so they decided to record a series of EPs. "The idea really appealed to me," says Bolan, "especially with the constantly changing musical climate. I like the idea of a steady flow of new music, as opposed to releasing a full-length album then riding it for the next two years."
That guerrilla burst of recording a concise EP fostered a focused intensity that was liberating, says Snake. "The pressure seemed to be lifted. That immediately set me at ease and it became really exciting."
Exciting and potent, prompting Solinger to exert the full range of his ability. "The third time in the studio as the voice of Skid Row was the proverbial charm, and the proof is in the tracks. United World Rebellion Part 2 is the most meaningful work I've done with the band. It's definitely the most I've been challenged, vocally."
That sound is rambunctious exuberance. They got older, but Skid Row never really grew up. United World Rebellion Part 2 is still the youth gone wild, their musical spark still burning gasoline.
Check out Skid Row at any of the following stops:
With Black Star Riders:
Thu 5/8 Tucson, AZ Rialto Theatre
Fri 5/9 Tempe, AZ The Marquee
Sat 5/10 Corona, CA M15
Mon 5/12 Sacramento, CA Harlows
Tue 5/13 San Francisco, CA DNA
Thu 5/15 Agoura Hills, CA Canyon Club
Fri 5/16 San Juan Capistrano, CA Coach House
Headlining:
Sat 5/17 Los Angeles, CA The Whisky
Sun 5/18 Hermosa Beach, CA Saint Rocke
Tue 5/20 Houston, TX Scout Bar
Wed 5/21 Abilene, TX Lucky Mule
Fri 5/23 Pryor, OK Rocklahoma
Sat 5/24 Dallas, TX Trees
Sun 5/25 Lubbock, TX Big Purple Festival
Wed 7/9 Rochester, NY Montage Music Hall
Thu 7/10 Cleveland, OH Agora
Fri 7/11 Newport, KY Thompson House
Sat 7/12 Arlington Heights, IL Home Bar
Sun 7/13 Watseka, IL Watseka Theater
Thu 7/17 Peoria. IL Heart Of Illinois Fair
Fri 7/18 Turtle Lake, WI St. Croix Casino
Sat 7/19 Oshkosh, WI Rock USA
Sun 7/20 Battle Creek, MI Planet Rock
Fri 7/25 Duncannon, PA Tubby's
WebLinks: www.skidrow.com / www.facebook.com/OfficialSkidRow.
INTRODUCING DEBUT ALBUM FROM SATIN: Satin has finished the long awaited debut album simply titled 'Satin'. Comprised of 10 melodic feel-good rock songs written and produced by Satin himself. This album has a total listening time of approximately 44 minutes. Being an 80's child, both music and production will naturally reveal some elements from the 80's, blended tastefully with a full modern sound. The album was mastered in New York by Grammy Award Winning senior mastering-engineer Tom Coyne (Adele, U2, Def Leppard, Michael Jackson, George Michael, Pink, Beyoncé, Bee Gees).
The lyrical content on this album touches on subjects like choices, strength, life and love. Great vocal performances and melodic guitar work further enhances the already strong melodies. It starts off with the big and very catchy "Fire The Shot". The emotional impact caused by the beautiful ballade "Don't Know The Words" is immense. Satin tells all in the epic rocker "I've Been Crazy" and shares his point of view in "Life Will Never Slow Down".
Satin has been a part of various projects over the years which has not just given him a great deal of experience and important lessons, but also earned him a Norwegian Grammy in 2013. Satin has delivered an amazing debut album so be sure to give it a well-deserved listen.
Tracklisting: 01. Fire The Shot 02. Don't Know The Words 03. I've Been Crazy 04. Life Will Never Slow Down 05. I Want Us 06. Friends 07. Some People Call It Love 08. Leave It Be 09. Part Of It 10. I Don't Need Anybody.
WebLink: www.verummusic.com.
THE ANGELS PLAN 40TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR AND RELEASES:
Aussie rock legends The Angels are planning to celebrate their 40th Anniversary with a twin-Best Of release - 4CDs and 80 tracks of the band at their best - www.theangels40thanniversary.com.au:
After morphing from The Moonshine Jug & String Band in 1974 the group embarked on a new path under the name The Keystone Angels. In a decision that would change the face of Australian music forever they were signed to Alberts Music from a meeting with legendary producers Vanda & Young.
Stripping their name back to simply The Angels the band started a recording career that spawned dozens of studio releases with enormous radio and chart success. The Greatest 'Studio' Hits release brings forward 40 of the band's best album recordings. Each and every track has been carefully chosen to reward listeners with a valuable insight into the unarguable influence The Angels music has exercised over the course of this country's modern rock history.
Since 1974 The Angels have wowed audiences at pubs, clubs, festivals and concerts with their high energy brand of Australian rock riffs. The band's sound has become legendary across the country. Their unique approach to pumping up an audience is synonymous with rocking out while holding a drink in your hand after a hard day's work. There are few, if any, groups in the world who can hold up an ongoing reputation for live performances like the status achieved by The Angels over the course of their constant and relentless evolution. The Greatest 'Live' Hits album contains a special selection of 40 recordings from gigs across their career and who knows... maybe you were there!
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AUSTRALIAN GUITAR HERO JOE MATERA TO HIT THE EUROPEAN ROAD IN MAY:
Following on from his critically acclaimed 2012 album, 'Creature Of Habit', guitar hero Joe Matera released a new set, 'Terra Firma', via W.A.R Productions, in Europe in January, 2014. The Australian musician will be heavily promoting the album in May, 2014 during The 'Terra Firma' Europe 2014 Tour which will include shows in Austria, Germany, Poland, The Netherlands and Czech Republic. The tour kicks off in Linz, Austria on May 2nd where Joe will headline The Akustik Festival 2. The German band Seeking Raven will perform as support act on several dates.
Joe of course is very excited about his upcoming tour: "I am looking forward to promote 'Terra Firma' on stages in Europe. Can't wait to perform live for the first time ever to all my fans and new audiences in Poland, Czech Republic and the Netherlands. It's going to be rock 'n' roll!"
'Terra Firma' - Joe's second full-length studio album - features nine new songs built from a tumultuous year for Joe, in which he has enjoyed tremendous international success with his album 'Creature Of Habit', the accompanying single, 'Fallen Angel' and his first European Tour in September, 2012 as well as having to face a double family tragedy. The roots of 'Terra Firma' stretch from this highly emotional period and the resultant song-writing display greater depth, maturity and emotive resonance than his previous work. Joe – whose reputation is principally as a creator of guitar driven instrumentals – has also responded to calls from his fans to add more vocals in the wake of 'Fallen Angel' and two new songs on the collection, 'Shining Star' and 'Tell Me Why' feature his voice and new lyrical twists.
'Shining Star' is the lead-off single and two versions of the song are found on the album. The 'single' version is a no-holds-barred full band rock attack that features a guest appearance from The Sweet's Pete Lincoln, on bass. In addition, there is a relaxed 'acoustic' version also featuring Lincoln alongside another of Joe's great friends, Smokie's Martin Bullard on keyboards.
You can check out the video for 'Shining Star' here: youtu.be/TJIhOoqf1n8.
'Terra Firma' European 2014 Tour:
02 May – Akustik Festival 2, Elia Solar City - Linz, Austria (acoustic)*
04 May – Club Prague Hard Rock Café - Prague, Czech Republic
07 May - Mein Haus am See - Berlin, Germany
09 May – Klub U Bulka Lub Plener - Sulecin, Poland
10 May – Bulwar Pub - Sport & Music - Gorzów Wlkp, Poland
12 May - Pooca Circus - Hamburg, Germany
16 May – Café De Dwaas - Sittard, Netherlands (acoustic)*
17 May – Muziekcafe De Meister, - Geleen, Netherlands*
18 May – Muziekcafe Rinie & Nico - Venlo-Blerick, Netherlands*
* supported by Seeking Raven
Websites: www.joematera.com / www.facebook.com/joe.matera.
MELODIC BRIEFS:
German Powerprog Records offers Passage To The Other Side as a free advance download single for the upcoming 2nd Boguslaw Balcerak's Crylord album Gates Of Valhalla! You can check out and download the track over here: www.powerprog.net/free_singles_eps_crylord_passage_to_the_other_side.html. The album features Carsten Schulz, Goran Edman, Mark Boals (both Malmsteen) and Rick Altzi (Masterplan, At Vance).
This week on The Double Stop guitarist Ronny Jones shares his story. Ronny was in the band Mac Meda with Robin Crosby (Ratt) and Rob Lamothe (Riverdogs) and two of their songs (I'm Insane and Scene of the Crime) appeared on Ratt's smash album "Out Of The Cellar"ť. Ronny and Rob were co-writers of the tracks, but never given credits on the album. Ronny explains the lawsuit that followed, as well his next band, Black Bambi, which had their debut album produced by Beau Hill, but never release due to politics at Atlantic Records. Very different than any of my past episodes, but it is a pretty important story of the dark side of the 80's music biz. thedoublestop.com/ep-11-ronny-jones-mac-meda-black-bambi-cocoa-blue
MetalSymphony.com has uploaded photos of Gotthard's April 11, 2014 concert at Volkshaus (Zurich Switzerland). Check them out at this location: www.metalsymphony.com/?p=18241#pg
Gotthard's setlist was as follows: Bang!, Get Up N' Move on, Feel What I Feel, Hush, Right On, Remember It's Me, C'est La Vie, Heaven, Spread Your Wings, Mountain Mama, Jump The Gun, My Belief, Sister Moon, Lift U' Up, Anytime Anywhere, One Life, One Soul, Starlight, Top Of The World, Mighty Quinn.
UK rockers Fahran are set to release their second studio album in mid-May 2014, entitled 'Chasing Hours'. The band joined forces with ex-Serpentine vocalist Matt Black in late 2013 and have been working hard in the studio whilst still keeping up a good live presence. After the well-received 'Take This City Alive' video showcasing the new line up, Fahran have now released a second music video to promote the upcoming album.
Fahran - I Heard A Joke Once www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzi_lVROT0o / www.fahran.com.
New Video from Julie and Hydrogyn from the "Break The Chains" EP from Rapid Fire Entertainment. Julie - Vocals/Guitar; Jeff Westlake - Guitar; John Cardilino - Drums; Mark Carlisle - Bass / www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uQKghD6gT8.
Michael Sweet of Stryper will be the very special guest on this week's episode of Noize In The Attic (Where Your Past Comes Back To Haunt You) broadcasting this Friday 1-3PM EST on WNHU 88.7FM New Haven, CT (streaming live on www.wnhu.net) The in-depth interview covers everything from Michael's autobiography, to new solo CD, live Stryper DVD, upcoming project with George Lynch and much more! Free podcasts are available on iTunes or by following the link at www.noizeintheattic.com where you can also find additional air-times and affiliates.
AUSSIE ROCKERS MYSTERY SUBJECT OF FEATURE DOCO:
The most emerging Hard Rock band to come out of Australia to astound International audiences in recent years continue dominate with the announcement of the completion of a feature film. Mystery will for the very first time unveil the feature film Mystery: Born To Rock on April 24 in a red carpet style gala concert where they will perform a full Rock concert after which they will host the launch and premiere of the movie on the giant screen at The Astor Theatre. The prestigious venue is famous for red carpet events and historical concerts by bands like Inxs, Iggy Pop, UB40, Men At Work, Midnight Oil and many more. The concert will be performed on an elevated stage which will allow perfect viewing for all patrons whether they choose to stand in the pit during the concert or to be seated. The historical venue boasts amazing acoustics and a luxurious cinema setting with a huge screen for superior picture quality. The event will take place in the bands hometown of Melbourne, Australia on April 24 (Anzac Day Eve). Doors will open at 7pm and showtime is at 8pm. Tickets can be purchased at: www.trybooking.com/EDPV or at The Astor Box Office.
Please check this short 40 second trailer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2yAtTf0Nh4.
Stop Press - Hard Rocking It To Cannes: After the screening, the movie will head to France for the International premiere at the world's biggest and most important film festival where It will screen at the official Cannes Film Festival on May 16 at 6pm in Palais E as part of the official Marche Du Film Line-up. Frontman Rocky Ravic will be a special guest at the festival screening at the world's most famous red carpet. Mystery: Born To Rock will be delivering Hard Rock to the Palais movie screen.
Mystery: Born To Rock (The Movie): Strap on your belts and embark on a wild 85 minute adventure of Rock n' Roll proportions with the youngest Rock band to ever tour the world. Join them on stage, behind the scenes and in their dreams in a journey like no other. Mystery: Born To Rock is a story loosely inspired by real life events. From the turbulent streets of the western suburbs of Melbourne, Australia emerges a story of hope as four young boys conquer the odds and live the dream. From the land of AC/DC, a new chapter in Rock history is born and Mystery are taking the world by storm. The movie features all of the songs from the new album by Mystery called 'From Dusk Till Dawn' which will also soon be available.
In Touring News: The band will then head to the United States for the beginning of their third world tour in as many years where they will return to Rocklahoma for the second year running and perform on May 25 with the likes of Kid Rock, Twisted Sister and Skid Row amongst other big names. The band will also return to Europe where they will perform at the BasinFireFest on June 29 in the Czech Republic in addition to other festivals and headliner shows during the European Summer. They will also return to Japan later in the year.
The facts and attachments added to this email have a brief rundown of Mystery's impressive list of activities over the last few years. Please also take a few minutes of your time to check this New promo video: Taking The World By Storm 2013 Report: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MXbI4YHjmI.
RON KEEL PERMIT TIME PERFORMANCE AT BUNDY RANCH: Ron Keel is Proud to Announce a Prime Time Headline Performance at the Bundy Ranch Patriot Party Friday April 18.
Most Americans – and many around the world – are familiar with the controversial situation surrounding the Cliven Bundy family in Nevada and their recent and ongoing confrontation with the U.S. government in regard to 'grazing rights' and the paramilitary invasion of Mr. Bundy's land which extends to the desecration of that land, the confiscation of his cattle, and the violations of his family's constitutional rights. "As an American, as a patriot, as a citizen of the state of Nevada, and as a business owner I strongly support Cliven Bundy, his family, and what they're fighting for," proclaims Ron Keel. "It's the ranchers, the farmers, the truckers, the construction workers, those men and women on the assembly line – it's the working class that keeps this country strong, and we have to either stand together or fall forever. I'm honored to be asked to sing at the Bundy ranch for this event and I intend to sing my songs, speak my mind, and eat some Bundy beef – thanks to Mr. Cliven Bundy and his family for inviting me to participate in this historic occasion."ť ~Ron Keel.
For More Info on Ron Keel Go To: www.ronkeel.com. For More Info on West Coast Merch and Celebrity Swag Go To: westcoastmerch.com / celebrityswag.net.
ALIEN 1986-1989- In late 1986 ALIEN recorded two songs; "Headstrong" and "I'll Survive" at Studio Bohus. Virgin Scandinavia signed the band and released those two first singles. In the meantime, while touring Scandinavia, they wrote the album. Virgin believed in Alien to appeal to audiences in further territories, and hence rewrote our contract into a worldwide deal!
Late 1987, at ABBA's Polar Studio, the Swedes cut three songs with producer Mark Dearnley (AC/DC, Def Leppard). One being "Only One Woman" went on to top the charts and sell platinum. The B-side, "Somewhere Out There", also got to #1 in the charts, for instrumentals!
After that the group relocated to the renowned Sound City Studios in Los Angeles, with producer Chris Minto (Pat Benatar, Rick Springfield, Kiss), to record the album. Two songs featured in the 1988 remake of the 50's Sci-Fi movie "the Blob"; "Feel My Love", plus "Brave New Love" in the end credits. Back from the US, with "Only One Woman" sky-rocketing the charts, we brought the album on tour, beating box office records, being all over Swedish media!
While in London doing promo, ALIEN shot cover photos with Simon Fowler, and signed with Steve Barnett /Hard to Handle Management (Gary Moore, AC/DC). For the international launch Virgin America made a new album cover and some remixes by Duane Baron and John Purdell. Songs were cut out to include the first single with new singer Pete Sandberg, "The Air That I Breathe"/"Now Love". Pete replaced Jim in the fall of 1988, making his first appearance performing live on Swedish national TV.
New promo and cover photos were shot in LA as well as the video for "Tears Don't Put Out The Fire". Director Dough Freel was chosen mainly for his work on the Def Leppard (Hysteria album) videos.
Promotion, TV and a full summer of touring followed in 1989, bringing ALIEN's biggest production to date on the road. "Tears Don't Put Out The Fire" was chosen as the international single release. A couple more songs written during pre-production for the album were later published on the 1997 "Best & Rare" 2CD collection.
ALIEN 1990-2005 - Tony and Peterecorded and released"Shiftin' Gear" in 1990, ending the Virgin era.In 1992 Tony formed a Stockholm based Alien, lasting for two albums at Eagle Records. After the release of "Crash" in 1994, having toured extensively, Tony called it quits. It was about time to put Alien on a long lasting hiatus. In 2005 Tony and Jim got in touch and agreed to an offer by Frontiers Rec. for an Alien CD. Recording Dark Eyes was hard, though, living far apart, and after just a few shows Alien was put to rest
again. Jim and Tony realized that it would take the original line-up to make it sound like Alien.
ALIEN 2010- present - The original line-up eventually reunited, a handful of festivals were chosen - Sweden Rock (Cruise + Festival), Getaway Rock, Firefest a.o. A new single, Ready To Fly (Manora Rec), was cut to promote the reunion. It went down great with the crowd and especially the response at the first Firefest performance (2011) made the band really consider making this new record.
In 2013, the No Remorse/EMI re-issue CD (ltd 1000 copies) of Alien (s/t Scandinavian) reached No.1 in the import album chart in Japan and sold out. EMI Music Sweden released the back catalog, re-mastered for digi/download with some unreleased demos as bonus. "Alien - 25th Anniversary" 2CD deluxe edition highlighted the celebration of ALIEN's debut album, selling out as well. "Shiftin' Gear +4" CD (AOR Heaven) bonus tracks shed some light on the fact that the original line-up wrote and pre-produced a sophomore album, before disbanding in late 1989.
Recordings of the new album started Aug 1 at Bohus Sound and continued throughout 2013, taking a break only to perform at the Firefest 10th Anniversary show. ALIEN decided to add a song, "I'm a fighter", written back in the 80's by their L.A. co-writers Pam Barlow and Janet Morrison Minto, as an homage to their co-work on the debut album. The regained contact with Pam and Janet led to them writing lyrics for this album as well.
1. In Love We Trust
First song we tried out on an audience, at Firefest last fall. Also, first single prior to the album. Got its unique touch with the tom-pattern driven verses.
2. Unbroken
One of the first song written, based on the keyboard hook. We put a lot of effort into the arrangement.
3. Love Will Lead Me Home
More straight forward. Solo part takes off, in a different but cool way.
4. I Believe
Expectations for a good and heavy power ballad might be high, given our history. J
Hard to beat the sing-along factor of 'Only One Woman, otherwise 'I Believe' has it all.
5. Summer of Love
Positive, yet melancholic touch. We were thinking youth, nostalgia and hope
and the lyrics of Pam & Janet just nailed it!
6. What Goes Up
We could tell right away the key/horn-riff of the chorus was a hook, but it took a while to find the right groove for this song. The combination of half-tempo beat and 1/16-bass gave that special suggestive feel.
7. I'm a Fighter
A Pam Barlow & Janet Morrison Minto song, written already in the 80's with Marcie Free singing the demo. Our arrangement is significantly faster.
8. Wildheart
This one has a lot of the classic Aliens sound, as far as harmonies and arrangements.
Lead keyboard melodies are even made with an old Roland D-50
J
9. Liar, Liar
The very first song written for the album, and also the first one recorded!
10. Look at Us Know
Different kind of verse on this one. No pulse in anything but the drums, in great contrast to the up-tempo beat in the chorus. The solo/theme part, as an intermediate, nicely conjoin.
11. Burning Heart
This one is a bit more guitar driven. The lyrics are a tribute to enthusiasts/heroes who've selflessly stood up for others.
12. In Truth
Written to be performed unadorned, sort of like how 'Mirror' closed the first album. We finally chose nylon stringed guitar
plus strings and some other additional instruments.
Lyrics based on a true story.
Friday, April 18, 2014
TESLA ARE BACK WITH A NEW ALBUM SIMPLICITY OUT IN EUROPE IN JUNE ON FRONTIERS: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of Tesla brand new studio album entitled Simplicity on June 6 in Europe.
The Sacramento Rockers are back with 14 new songs offering a ride of energy that doesn't come easy for a band of rookies much less a band whose been doing this for over 20 years. "Simplicity" is Tesla's seventh all original studio album which follows a 6-years creative break from the release of the previous album "Forever More".
After a string of shows in the USA in 2013, the band went back into the studio in early 2014 and came out with a new album, which goes straight back to the Tesla roots. The band worked and produced it as they did with "Into the Now", their successful come-back album from 2004. Helped by the legendary Tom Zutaut who was the man behind the best Tesla albums, this new album rocks from start to finish, showing a variety of emotions where each song has its own twist--not sounding like another.
The first new song off the new album "Taste My Pain", was released last summer digitally via iTunes and Amazon. The track was recorded during a two-day (June 5-6, 2013) session at J Street Recorders in Sacramento. The new song is, according to the band, "A heavier song with a hard-driving beat and Tesla trademark blazing guitars."
It is possible to stream it now following this link: youtu.be/cqHzkUIvL-8.
Guitarist Frank Hannon says about "Simplicity": "I must say that this new Tesla album is really gonna be awesome. We went in more prepared with the songs and ideas way more than Forever More, and the style is pure Tesla back to our roots. I truly believe you guys are gonna love it!"
"The opening track is called MP3", continues Hannon "and starts off with an opus intro that orchestrates into a heavy slow groove with lyrics about technology and how we miss simplicity, vinyl albums, family values...and has a heavy ass riff! Then we segue into a rock n roll song called Ricochet that talks about uncle Ted...can't wait to play this stuff live!"
Simplicity in the Frontiers version released across Europe, will include the following songs: MP3; Ricochet; Rise and Fall; So Divine...; Cross My Heart; Honestly; Flip Side!; Other than Me; Break of Dawn; Burnout to Fade; Life is a River; Sympathy; Time Bomb; 'Til that Day; Burnout to Fade (writing demo version)* / *Bonus track.
Tesla: Jeff Keith: Lead Vocals; Frank Hannon: Guitars, Vocals, Piano, Bass; Brian Wheat: Bass, Vocals, Piano; Troy Luccketta: Drums and Percussion; Dave Rude: Guitars, Vocals, Bass.
Produced by: Tom Zutaut and Tesla Mixed by: Michael Wagener.
European Tour Dates
05/01/2014 -Milan, IT – Frontiers Rock Festival
06/05/2014 -Sölvesborg, SE – Sweden Rock Festival
06/06/2014 -Copenhagen, DK
06/08/2014 -Gelsenkirchen, DE – Rock Hard Festival
06/09/2014 -Aschaffenburg, DE
06/10/2014 -Pratteln, CH
06/12/2014 -London, UK
06/13/2014 -Donington, UK – Download Festival
xx
MYSTERY TRACK REVEALED - ESCAPE MUSIC ANNOUNCE "SEVEN":
This week's Mystery Track is the band 7 - the details of which can be read in full below:
Escape Music will release 7: Seven on June 20.
The track listing is: 1-Shoot To Kill 2-Inside Love 3-Diana 4-America 5-Headlines 6-Strangers 7-Don't Break My Heart 8-Still (Download in full - April 2014 Mystery Track) 9-Thru The Night 10- Never Too Late 11- Say Goodbye.
7 is: Mick Devine – Lead Vocals / Keith Mcfarlane – guitar, Vocals / Pat Davey- Bass, Vocals / Simon Lefevre – Keyboards, Vocals / Austin "Oz" Lane – Drums.
Special guests: Lars Chriss Guitars; Mark Mangold: Keyboards; Adam Wakeman: Keyboards; Fredrik Bergh: Keyboards; Dig Digital: Keyboards; Tomas Coox: Piano and strings arrangement; Fretless Bass: Shuji Matsumoto on "Strangers"; Bass: Andy Loos.
Produced by: Lars Chriss; Mastered by: Mike Lind.
The AOR scene in the late eighties was a thriving hive of activity. At the turn of the new decade, the likes of Mitch Malloy, Paul Laine, Firehouse, Tyketto and Talisman were all signed up and ready to make an impact on the genre. Everybody wanted an AOR band, and Polydor records were no exception. Having been fairly successful in the U.K with the likes of Magnum and Little Angels, the label had set their sights on Seven, a relatively unknown act from Bournemouth.
The roots of the band originally began in South Africa in an outfit called Face To Face. Both Keith McFarlane and Simon LeFevre (and his brother John) had enjoyed considerable success over an eighteen month period, releasing several singles and one album, before dissent in the ranks saw the young band split up. Meanwhile, a young Mick Devine was plying his trade as a drummer in the band UC27. With both McFarlane and the LeFevre brothers returning to the UK, it was decided after several months to put the band back together, but base it in the UK, as Mick Devine explains, "I took a brave leap leaving South Africa, as I hadn't met Simon, John or Keith previously. We were originally based in Woking, but after meeting Mike Parker (our initial Manager – now deceased) at a talent show, we moved to Bournemouth. I was initially approached by John to drum with the band, but they thought I was a much better singer than drummer and realised I needed to come out from behind the drums and become the lead singer."
A quick name change ensued and Seven was born. When John Wolff (The Who, John Parr) joined Parker to co-manage the band, they soon secured a support slot on the first nationwide tour of Brother Beyond. It was from here, via Phil Schofield and a record exec's wife, that things took a turn for the better as Devine recalls, "Having picked up valuable live experience (and a sizeable fan base) on the Brother Beyond tour, we attracted Phillip Schofield's attention who started to play our demo's on radio one. Whilst on tour, the head of Polydor's wife and kids came to one of the shows and the story goes that she went home and told her husband that he needed to sign us," laughs Devine. "That combined with the touring, fans and Phil's plugging, a deal was offered and as a bit of media hype, Philip Schofield was on hand to witness the record deal signing."
Heading out on the road, they supported an eclectic variety of acts that included the likes of Jason Donovan, Richard Marx, The Monkees and a second stint with Brother Beyond. It's a time period that Devine is keen to reminisce about, "Even though they were out and out pop gigs, we loved the crowds and the noise. We went from pubs to opening to 3000 screaming fans in Southampton. It is a very addictive adrenaline rush. We got to play all the top venues, which were fantastic; including Wembley Arena, the NEC, BIC, SEC and even the Royal Albert Hall. The Richard Marx tour was definitely the best for us with a more grown up audience we were able to rock it up and truly be ourselves. It went down really well!"
Entering the recording studios, with John Parr at the production helm, they recorded two very strong singles in the shape of "Inside Love" and "Man with A Vision. One of the myths about Seven is that they recorded a full album, but that it was shelved by Polydor after the band were dropped. It's a myth that Devine is quick to dismiss, "We never had an album deal. We were signed for two single releases and we were then dropped. We had more than an albums worth of material, mostly consisting of really good quality demos, having recorded at some great studios including a number of weeks at Rockfield."
Fast forward to the present day and bass player, Pat Davey, was working alongside Robert Hart on an Escape Music album when the name Seven cropped up in the conversation. It would seem that Khalil Turk was a big fan, as Devine explains, "Yeah, back in the day Khalil had really loved the band and he got in touch to see if we would be interested in finally releasing an album with the original line-up," gushes the excited singer. "As we are currently living in different countries (Keith & Simon are in South Africa, Myself, Pat & Oz in the UK), Khalil put us together with Lars Chris (fantastic Swedish Hard rock guitarist and producer) who is producing the tracks from Sweden and then sending tracks to SA & the UK for each of us to add our individual parts. The sound is definitely fresher and harder and more up to date, giving the band, the edge it needed back in the 80's."
This brings us up to the present day and we are all now waiting with excitement for the Seven album to finally be released. One thing for sure, it has been worth the wait.
WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.
HAPPY EASTER: Have a safe and Happy Easter break folks. See you back here Tuesday. I'm recovering from triple hernia repair surgery from earlier in the week, so hopefully the long weekend will be enough to get me back in shape. Lots to come next week and in the weeks ahead!
Three Lions
"Three Lions" is the sensational eponymously titled debut album from this new British 3 piece rock band. The band consists of Vinny Burns (Dare, Ten, Asia) on guitar, Greg Morgan (Dare, Ten) on drums and introduces Nigel Bailey on vocals and bass guitar.
"Three Lions" features 12 brand new tracks, written by the band and also in collaboration with producer Alessandro Del Vecchio on 2 songs. Recorded at The Viper Room, Coil Tap Studios in the UK and Ivory Tears Studio in Milan, this album combines massive guitar riffs and great hooks alongside driving rhythms and powerful, yet emotional vocals.
The band was formed when Vinny, Greg and Nigel were introduced by Serafino and Alessandro at Firefest in October 2012. The guys hit it off straight away and immediately set about writing new material for the album. The first single, Trouble In A Red Dress, captures the energy of the band and is a classic foot stomping rock song with an infectious groove, soaring guitars and a chorus you have to sing along with.
The album is made up of songs that were written without an agenda. "We set out to write good songs, the only criteria was that all of us liked them" said Nigel, "Working with Vinny and Greg has been a blast and we were all determined to make the best album possible and are immensely proud of the songs that have made it onto the final record". From the eastern influenced Kathmandu, to the driving power of Hellfire Highway and Twisted Soul, to the heartfelt ballads Made For One Another and Don't Let Me Fall. This album delivers passionate performances from the guys. Vinny's trademark guitar work is, as you would expect, filled with emotion and feel. "I wanted to start with a blank canvas for the guitars" says Vinny. "This album allowed me to show a different side to my playing whilst retaining the familiar sound and feel fans of Dare and Ten will recognise". "Working with Vinny again has been great fun and Nigel brings something new to the table" said Greg. "This is definitely a record made by a band, not just a studio project, and that really comes across in the songs. We had an instant connection as musicians but also as people and we cannot wait to get out and perform these songs live soon".
Hear The Roar!!!
THREE LIONS:
Nigel Bailey – lead vocal and bass
Greg Morgan – drums
Vinny Burns – guitars, keyboards
Trouble In A Red Dress
We thought we would open the album with a big uptempo song. Let the lions roar.
It's straight in with big guitars and has a really great hook in the chorus.
Great way to setup the album.
This was always going to be a contender to be released as our first single/ video, it sums up the band perfectly. Vinny's trademark guitar belts out some fiery phrases on this opening track. The hook and the huge harmonies on the chorus made this the obvious choice as an opener.
Hold Me Down
A little slower in tempo. We wrote this as a fun summer song. No deep meaning, just a beer in
hand party song.
A fun summertime song, it's all about enjoying good times, good weather and a beer with friends.
Twisted Soul
A bit more moody. We wanted to stretch things a little more with this one. Soft intro then a big bang
as the song comes in. Big drums. Classic guitar harmonies and a nice throwback to the classic
rock we grew up listening to.
There is a dark side to this song, the intro kicks in with a harmonised guitar melody then drops a little before the track explodes with a massive guitar riff into the main body of the song.
Winter Sun
Took things down a couple of notches for Winter Sun. Nice atmospheric feel with a nod to some of
our previous material from past bands.
This was actually one of the first songs that Vinny and I wrote together. It a ballad about meeting the "One" and how it can change your whole outlook on life.
Just A Man
Another nod back to the classic era of the 80's. Hammond organ, Marshall and Les Paul. Big
vocals.
This song is one of a brace that were co-written by Alessandro (Del Vecchio). I love the sound of the Hammond that really compliments the riff. It has a definite 80's vibe to it.
Holy Water
An interesting groove on this one. Something a little different from us and our previous bands.
Straight ahead rock 'n' roll with a more stripped back direct approach.
This track evolved whilst we were writing and turned into one of our favourites. It's a great track to play live; you can really dig in and give it some! Huge harmonies, an infectious groove and some seriously feisty guitar work.
Two Hearts Beat As One
This was the 'production' song of the album. A lot more space to create the textures we wanted.
This track was also co-written by Alessandro, it's a classic boy meets girl and falls head over heels power ballad.
Kathmandu
We wanted an epic feel for this. It was about getting the power of the verse and chorus parts
across both instrumentally and vocally.
This song shows a little of our progressive side. The lyrics centre on the Nepalese capital city, the rich history of the country and one man's journey through it. It shows a different side of our tastes.
Made For One Another
A heartfelt ballad in a classic style. We have used the word classic several times on this album but
we wanted to convey that whole feeling of the era we grew up with. The era when this music ruled
the airwaves. This is the style of music we love so it's hard to sit down and write songs and not be
influenced by what shaped us as musicians and songwriters.
Magdalene
Big, bombastic song for the rock clubs.
A mid tempo song about a letting someone go and then realising you made a mistake. Really catchy chorus on this one.
Don't Let Me Fall
A very strong lyric that we tried our best to wrap in music that would do it justice. Has a nice twist in
the fact that it starts of in what you would think is another ballad but kicks into an uptempo rock
song.
This is a song I started to write when I realised I was going to be a part of this industry. It's a note to not take things for granted, and not to get seduced by the music business I guess. I love the guitar solo on this one, Vinny excelled himself
Hellfire Highway
Title says it all. A driving song in every way. High speed with one foot to the floor, music blasting
and your arm round the woman you love. Great song for playing live and a big favourite of ours.
Kicks in with drums, massive guitars and harmonies and stays that way until the last note.
A straightforward no nonsense rock track! Dual guitars turned up to 11, thundering drums and a sing along chorus. It tips our hat towards some of the classic British rock and metal bands from the 70's and 80's.
Sicilian Kiss
Moody guitar instrumental to finish the album and have a different dimension on there.
A really melodic instrumental to finish that evokes the feeling of the Mediterranean.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
AC/DC OFFICIALLY END SPECULATION: AC/DC has announced that rhythm guitarist Malcolm Young will be "taking a break" from the band he co-founded 40 years ago to address an illness that lead singer Brian Johnson described earlier this week as "debilitating." "Malcolm would like to thank the group's diehard legions of fans worldwide for their never-ending love and support," the statement on the band's Facebook page reads. "In light of this news, AC/DC asks that Malcolm and his family's privacy be respected during this time."
The statement made sure to add that "the band will continue to make music."
Young's absence will be felt, both on stage and in the record-making process. The 61-year-old guitarist and his younger brother Angus are the band's core songwriters, and Malcolm deserves credit for providing the riffs that are the backbone of the group's primal brand of bluesy hard rock.
In an interview with the U.K.'s Telegraph, Johnson confirmed that the band will enter a Vancouver recording studio next month to work on new songs. "We're going to pick up some guitars, have a plonk, and see if anybody has got any tunes or ideas," he said. "If anything happens, we'll record it."
Without naming Malcolm Young, Johnson said in the same interview that one of the band's members was not well. "One of the boys has a debilitating illness, but I don't want to say too much about it," he said. "He is very proud and private, a wonderful chap. We've been pals for 35 years and I look up to him very much."
Earlier this year, Johnson predicted that AC/DC would eventually launch a 40-date tour to commemorate the group's 40th anniversary. Despite Young's departure, Johnson is still hopeful they can pull it off. "That would be a wonderful way to say bye bye," he said. "We would love to do it. But it's all up in the air at the moment."
Reports surfaced Monday in the group's native Australia that the quintet was on the verge of announcing its retirement due to one band member's serious illness. But insiders told Billboard a day later that there was no truth to the rumor. The group's management and Columbia Records, its current label, declined requests for comment.
NewsLink: www.billboard.com/articles/news/6055502/acdc-malcolm-young-leaving-band-sick-group-not-retiring.
FRONTIERS ROCK FESTIVAL COMPILATION CD: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of the exclusive "Frontiers Rock Festival" Compilation CD which will be sold Exclusively at the forthcoming Frontiers Rock Festival which will be held at the Live Club In Trezzo (Milan, Italy) on May 1-2-3. Such compilation will be printed one-off in a very limited quantity (500 copies only) and will be sold exclusively at the Festival at the special price of 8.00 Euro.
Frontiers Rock Festival VIP tickets purchasers will have the compilation delivered within the ticket price in their special bag of goodies!
The tracklisting includes a total of 14 songs, out of which 9 are exclusive previews, unreleased or rare tracks! The Frontiers Rock Festival Official Compilation will include:
1. L.R.S. "Livin' 4 a Dream" (taken from the album "Down to the Core") 2. Adrenaline Rush "Change" (exclusive premiere from the forthcoming album "Adrenaline Rush) 3. Moon Land ft. Lenna Kuurmaa "Heaven Is to Be Close to You" (exclusive premiere from the forthcoming album "Moon Land") 4. Three Lions "Trouble In a Red Dress" (taken from the album "Three Lions") 5. Crazy Lixx "Sympathy" (exclusive premiere from the forthcoming album "TBA") 6. State of Salazar "All the Way" (exclusive premiere from the forthcoming album "All the Way") 7. Issa "Invincible (Acoustic)" (previously unreleased in Europe) 8. Dalton "Hey You" (exclusive premiere from the forthcoming album "Pit Stop") 9. W.E.T. "Victorious" (previously unreleased in Europe) 10. Hardline "Fever Dreams" (taken from the album "Danger Zone") 11. Eclipse "Into the Fire" (previously unreleased outside Sweden) 12. Angelica "Can't Stop Love" (taken from the album "Thrive") 13. Place Vendome "Power of Music" (taken from the album "Thunder in the Distance") 14. M.I.M. "On My Own" (exclusive premiere / special version for the FRF compilation).
Further info and ticket sales info available in www.frontiersrockfestival.com.
A little further info on those new preview tracks: Adrenaline Rush "Change" (Erik Mĺrtensson/Miqael Persson)
Featuring the stunning Tĺve Wanning as front-woman, Adrenaline Rush are the newest sensation of the Swedish Melodic Hard Rock scene. Under the direction of producer and songwriter Erik Martensson, the band has recently finished the recording their debut album: a superb mix or melodies, energy and pure R'n'R attitude! Their debut album is planned for a release in late August.
Moon Land "Heaven Is to Be Close to You" (Alessandro Del Vecchio)
Lenna Kuurmaa is a 360° artist, singer and actress. Born in Estonia, Lenna has been the frontwoman of the Pop-Rock sensation Vanilla Ninja. Lately she started a solo career in her country. The Moon Land project sees her coming back to Melodic Rock with a musical style mostly akin to Heart and Europe. The debut album will be released in the fall of 2014.
Dalton "Hey You" (Bo Lindmark, Anders Lindmark, Ola Lindström, Leif Westfahl, Mats Dahlberg, Anders Livĺg. Text: Mikael Larsson)
Put together in 1985 by the former Treat drummer Mats "Dalton" Dahlberg, Dalton released two classic Swedish Melodic Hard Rock albums: "The Race Is On" (1987) and "Injection" (1989), before disbanding in the early 90's. Now some 20 years later the magic is back and you can enjoy the first cut off the forthcoming album "Pit Stop" planned for a release in the fall.
M.I.M. "On My Own" (Christofer Björk, Linus Blad)
M.I.M. (standing for "More IS More" – the forthcoming debut album title) is another super-hot Melodic Rock newcomer from Sweden featuring Chris Bjork, Jimmy Claeson, Linus Blad, Rickard Bonde and Kristian Larsen. Their sound is going to take by surprise all the Melodic Rock fans mixing influences from Bon Jovi and Toto and this song shows all the potential (though vocals on this exclusive version are performed by David Fremberg of Andromeda).
BRIAN HOWE SET TO RETURN TO STUDIO WITH PRODUCER BROOKS PASCHAL:
Three years after redefining his career with the critically acclaimed "Circus Bar", Brian Howe is entering the studio once again.
Reuniting with Producer Brooks Paschal, the 2 hope to recapture the magic that led to the international success of "Circus Bar". However this time, the approach will be a little different.
"I'm going back to my roots. I'm going to ROCK", says Howe of the new album.
With anticipation building, we all look forward to what he does next.
KIX SIGNS WITH LOUD & PROUD RECORDS; FIRST NEW ALBUM IN 19 YEARS DUE:
April 16, 2014 -- Look for Kix-- Steve Whiteman (lead vocals), Jimmy Chalfant (drums, vocals), Ronnie Younkins (guitars), Brian Forsythe (guitars) and Mark Schenker (bass)to release their first new album in almost two decades on July 22, thanks to their new partnership with Loud & Proud Records. What makes the project even more exciting and anticipated is that the album features the band's original line-up, with the exception of Schenker on bass. "The boys and I are so happy that our old friend, Tom Lipsky, has invited us to join the Loud & Proud family," exclaims Whiteman. "We worked with Tom and Madelyn Scarpulla on our last studio album, Show Business, and we're looking forward to working with them again with the release of the first new Kix album in almost 19 years! We'll still be coming to a dump near you very soon!"
Loud & Proud Owner & President Tom Lipsky adds, "What I have always loved about Kix is they make rock 'n roll fun. What I love about their new music is that it's pure, genuine Kix music, straight up guitar rock with no compromise. They're not chasing trends or trying to re-invent themselves. They're simply doing what they do best...and now they can do it Loud and Proud!"
Marking the re-emergence of Kix in early-2000's, the band had teamed up a few times a year to test the waters with reunion shows in the Maryland/Pennsylvania, which were very well received. Then in the summer of 2008, Kix performed outside the mid-Atlantic for the first time in 13 years at two of the biggest rock festivals in the U.S. Rocklahoma in Pryor, OK and Rock the Bayou in Houston, TX. The band was hailed by many music websites and attendees as "Best Performance" at both festivals, where they played alongside Sammy Hagar, Alice Cooper, Tesla, Queesryche, Ratt, and more.
As the demand for new music has never subsided and in fact has only increased over the last few years, the band decided that they can no longer ignore the overtures from their fans and are currently recording new KIX songs. The new album, due out summer 2014, is produced by Taylor Rhodes, who last worked with Kix on 1991's Hot Wire album. Rhodes has also written hit songs for Aerosmith, Ozzy Osbourne and Journey.
Stay tuned for new album news, which will be announced in the coming weeks, and check out KIX on tour at any of the following stops (with more to be announced soon):
Fri 4/25 Columbia, MD M3 Festival
Sat 5/24 Pryor, OK Rocklahoma
Sat 5/31 Sandusky, OH Ohio Bike Week
Fri 6/6 Vernal, UT Thunder Rocks
Sat 6/21 Idaho Falls, ID Rock The Falls
Fri 7/25 Royalton, MN Halfway Jam
Thu 7/31 Leemore, CA Tachi Palace Casino
WebLinks: www.kix-band.com / www.facebook.com/OfficialKIX / www.loudandproudrecords.com.
FOREIGNER'S DOOR OPEN TO GRAMM:
According to The Pulse Of Radio, Mick Jones revealed that the first new songs by him and co-founding Foreigner frontman Lou Gramm in 20 years might hit the public next year. The pair's June 2013 performance of "I Want To Know What Love Is" and "Juke Box Hero" at the Songwriters Hall Of Fame in New York City marked the first time the pair has performed together in a decade after Gramm left Foreigner for a second time.
Jones has rekindled a relationship with Gramm, and revealed to Classic Rock magazine, that the duo, who wrote most of Foreigner's classic hits together, might be teaming up one more time, explaining, "Lou told me a few weeks ago he's discovered a few songs we were writing in the '80s, but never quite finished. We might take time next year to bring a couple of those out of the vaults. . . It's a question of wading through them and finding a cassette machine to play them on."
When asked if a reunion — which would sideline current lead singer Kelly Hansen — would be unfair, Jones was quick to point out: "Kelly has dedicated everything to the band. He's phenomenal. So anything I do will be sensitive to that. If Lou and I do something, it'll be inclusive. No way will he replace Kelly."
Jones was asked what shape a Lou Gramm / Kelly Hansen Foreigner show might take, and he explained, "Something special where the old members can be involved. That would be cool. But nothing in the immediate future."
Mick Jones told The Pulse Of Radio that upon forming Foreigner in 1976, he knew that Lou Gramm would prove to be invaluable with a signature voice — with the songwriting chops to match. "I knew he had written, he was a writer too, and always felt that, y'know, it was important that the singer in any band had something to do with, [laughs] obviously, creating the songs, 'cause they're gonna sing them," he said. "Lou came up with some great titles; I think 'Head Games', I think 'Hot Blooded', too. And he developed into a really good writer." Foreigner kicks off its joint tour with Styx and special guest, former Eagles guitarist Don Felder, on May 14, in Wichita, Kansas at the Intrust Bank Arena.
(As posted to Blabbermouth...).
FATAL SMILE - R.I.P.: Fatal Smile's Mr. Y announces the demise of the band:
"At some point in your life you'll have to 'kill your darlings'...and it's with a heavy heart I have to inform you that I'm laying my dear band Fatal Smile to rest...in peace!
I sure know it's a really bad timing with a new album to be released & we just kicked off our first show of the tour last nite & really sorry for letting the fans down that have bought tickets for the shows...
But at a certain point in life you'll have to make decisions if things are really worth doing it...?? I have come to that point when the answer is no, it's no longer worth sacrificing everything in my life, my heart & soul just to keep the 'FS-train' rolling...It's been an epic journey since I started the band back in 1995 & I had a blast doing it & 'living the dream'...
A million thanks to all of you for your endless support & love during those 'Fatal years' & thanks to all the band members during this time...I will sure keep writing & playing music, that's for sure!!!
Also the new album & last Fatal Smile album "White Trash Heroes" will be released as planned on April 25. A few signed copies of the album & 'special packages' is still available for pre-orders at: gmrmusic.bigcartel.com/artist/fatal-smile.
Take care & be well...Peace & Love, Yaksel Unutmaz aka 'MR. Y' / 'Yxan'.
WINERY DOGS SPECIAL EDITION OUT NOW:
April 15, 2014 -- The Winery Dogs (Mike Portnoy, Billy Sheehan and Richie Kotzen) released their self-titled, self-produced and critically acclaimed debut album in North America on Loud & Proud Records today as two very special editions.
The Winery Dogs Special Edition is comprised of two-CDs. Disc 1 is the standard album and Disc 2 is entitled Unleashed In Japan 2013, comprised of 10 songs recorded live in Japan during their July '13 tour, including Criminal, a track previously unavailable in the U.S., along with a 16-page booklet of live photos and lyrics. Unleashed In Japan 2013 is also available as a stand-alone digital album. Dog Treats: The Winery Dogs Deluxe Special Edition, a limited edition release, is being sold in a box resembling a box of dog treats, and includes the Special Edition collection of music, a DVD featuring four music videos and interview footage, demos from the original recording sessions, a "studio diary" written by Mike Portnoy, as well as some unique merchandise unavailable elsewhere. Portnoy recently gave fans a glimpse inside the packaging of the Dog Treats on Revolver magazine's website.
After The Winery Dogs was originally released on July 23, 2013 on Loud & Proud Records, it debuted on Billboard's "Top Alternative Albums" chart at #3, "Top Independent Albums" chart at #4, "Top Rock Albums" chart at #5, "Top Internet Albums" at #8 and "Top 200 Albums" chart at #27.
Check out The Winery Dogs' in-progress headlining tour at any of the U.S. tour stops (with more dates to be added in the coming weeks).
WebLinks: www.TheWineryDogs.com / www.facebook.com/TheWineryDogs.
LATEST EDEN'S CURSE STUDIO DIARY:
Multinational Melodic Metal band Eden's Curse have released the sixth installment in their studio diaries documenting the recording process of their latest studio album "Symphony Of Sin" which was released in October 2013 via AFM Records. The video can be viewed here: youtu.be/mz8XYfubRm0.
This latest episode re-visits virtuoso guitarist Thorsten Koehne (Hardline, Joe Lynn Turner's Sunstorm, Demon Drive) and focus on the equipment he used to record the guitars on the new album, from guitars, amps, effects and all points in between. Eden's Curse will undertake their debut headline club tour of the United Kingdom next month in support of the new record.
The dates are as follows:
19/05/14 Ivory Blacks, Glasgow, Scotland w/Stormzone & Estrella
20/05/14 The Railway, Bolton, England w/ Fahran
21/05/14 Snooty Fox, Wakefield, England w/ Fahran & Skin&Bone
22/05/14 Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton, England
23/05/14 Yardbirds, Grimsby, England, Co-Headliner with Absolva plus Babylon Fire
24/05/14 Static Swansea, Wales w/ Tainted Nation & Mayhem Messiah
25/05/14 Underwold, London, England w/ Tainted Nation & Dendera
Tickets for all shows are now On Sale and can be purchased from the venues directly or online at www.edenscurse.com/uktour.
THIRD TIME'S A CHARM FOR FRAMING HANLEY:
Hailing from Nashville, TN, Framing Hanley's 3rd release "The Sum Of Who We Are" will be released on April 29 on their new label, Imagen Records. The band will be doing all out touring and the first single "Criminal" is going to radio for impact on April 8 and already garnering attention with early adds at radio. The band will be hitting the road to promote to include dates with Three Days Grace in April, Devour The Day in May as well as headline shows. The follow up to the highly successful The Moment (featuring Lollipop, Hear Me Now) and their 2010 sophomore album A Promise To Burn (You Stupid Girl, Back To Go Again). It has been 4 years since Framing Hanley released a new album and they are re-energized and rearing to go.
The new single CRIMINAL Soundcloud link: soundcloud.com/framing-hanley/criminal.
WebLins: framinghanley.com / www.facebook.com/FramingHanley.
FOZZY TO RELEASE NEW SINGLE "LIGHTS GO OUT" APRIL 25:
New Studio Album Coming This Winter! New Chris Jericho Autobiography Set For October 13 Release; 'Talk Is Jericho' Podcast Reaches No. 1 In Seven Countries.
When Lights Go Out, the new era of Fozzy will officially be upon us. The wowed audiences on Soundwave 2013 then returned to our shores last December alongside Steel Panther & Buckcherry and now their new music it about to hit the airwaves and most importantly hit you between the eyes.
Fozzy: frontman Chris Jericho, guitarists Rich Ward and Billy Grey, bassist Paul Dileo and drummer Frank Fontsere will release their new single "Lights Go Out" on April 25 across all digital platforms. The release will coincide with the track's release to radio, and will be the first single from the band's upcoming sixth studio album, set to hit stores this Winter. "'Lights Go Out' represents a brand new colour in the Fozzy spectrum," says Chris Jericho of the new single. "Dark, sexy, sleek, dirty, heavy and catchy as f*ck, this song turns a whole new page in hard rock history - it doesn't matter if you dance to it in a club or mosh to it in a pit, ''Lights Go Out'' will make you move!"
The band return to the North American tour circuit in late April, where they will be making crowds move on America's biggest festivals, including appearances alongside Avenged Sevenfold, Volbeat, Rob Zombie, Slayer and more at 98 Rockfest, Welcome To Rockville, Carolina Rebellion and Rock On The Range.
Also recently announced is the October 13, 2014 release of 'the Best In The World: At What I Have No Idea,' Chris Jericho's third autobiography and the sequel to his New York Times bestsellers 'A Lion's Tale' and 'undisputed'.
MELODIC BRIEFS:
The Swedish melodic rock band Osukaru return to their edgy AOR roots with the new song "Arrows", taken from their upcoming mini-album "Transition". It's mixed by Attila Bokor (BOA, Morph) and mastered by Kevin McNoldy (Dave Matthews Band, Backstreet Boys). The band is also making a video of "Arrows" as we speak and "Transition" will hit the shelves this summer on City of Lights Records / Membran Entertainment Group. "This is, without a doubt, the best tune from Osukaru so far! I can't wait to hear the new album." - DrAOR www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rnfb1fQYKzY.
Triple Threat were a great hard rock band 20 years ago and they are trying to make their goal of $1500 so they can release it on CD for the first time, including new artwork. I'm sure if you made mention of this the band would make their goal. Hope you can help.
WebLink: www.kickstarter.com/projects/triplethreat/triple-threat-cd-release-of-we-aint-here-to-dance.
42 Decibel release a new video for the song "Rocker Soul" from their debut album "Hard Rock N Roll": youtu.be/19DacXdm0mU.
Highway by The Summit is released in Sweden today, and the video is out on YouTube. youtu.be/8xjtG1pPoOQ.
TOM PETTY SPREADS FULL MOON FEVER 25 YEARS AGO: INTHESTUDIO CELEBRATES ALBUM'S ANNIVERSARY:
Dallas, TX - April 16, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the highly contagious music of Tom Petty's 1989 solo masterpiece Full Moon Fever on its 25th anniversary.
Two things happened after Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' 7th album Let Me Up (I've Had Enough) that would signal the next phase in Petty's illustrious music career. First, the band toured as Bob Dylan's live band. Second, while on tour, Petty would meet and become friends with ex-Beatle George Harrison and producer, former ELO founder Jeff Lynne, setting in motion the supergroup of Dylan, Harrison, Orbison, Lynne and Petty named The Traveling Wilburys.
In between the tours with Dylan and The Traveling Wilburys recording Tom Petty, with the help of producer/songwriter Jeff Lynne, would find magic recording his first solo album, his most successful album ever with hits, "Free Fallin'", "I Won't Back Down", "Love is a Long Road", "A Face in the Crowd", "Yer So Bad", "Runnin' Down a Dream" and the Byrd's tribute "Feel A Whole Lot Better".
Petty recalls to InTheStudio host Redbeard the importance of his producer partnership with Jeff Lynne for Full Moon Fever. "Jeff Lynne is the consummate record producer. There aren't many anymore like that. He really knows what he's talking about and he understands every aspect of the recording and what's going to go on. He also understands the tune, the feel, the performer. All of those things you gotta have in your mind. He just somehow handles it so casually."
Tom Petty 'Full Moon Fever' /InTheStudio interview is available now to Stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/tom-petty-full-moon-fever-25th-anniversary.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
MYSTERY TRACK!!!: Mystery Track time - and this time around it's a FULL song download to feast upon. Who is it? I'll update by the end of the week. But for now... Download: April 2014 Mystery Track.
MELODIC BRIEFS:
The Double Stop Podcast this week talked to Producer Max Norman, covering how he got into the business, full detail on all 5 Ozzy records he worked on, Megadeth, and working on Lynch Mob's Wicked Sensation (including Oni's vocal troubles): thedoublestop.com/ep-10-max-norman-producer-ozzy-megadeth-lynch-mob/
Great White featuring Jack Russell will be performing live at the Sun National Bank Center in Trenton, NJ on 4/19/14 following the Trenton Freedom football game against the Columbus Lions....The game is at 7pm and the concert is start after the game is over...The management at Trenton Freedom is promising an hour of Jack Russell...
SAN CARLOS PARK & SHATTERED SILENCE:
San Carlos Park, the 2nd offering from US rocker, Marc Bryant, receives proper worldwide digital release via Amazon.com and iTunes on April 8th. The set includes the original 6 acoustic tracks from the EP (including classic cover songs of "Open Up Your Eyes" by Tonic and "Shine" by Collective Soul) as well as an electric single version of "Saving Grace", the unreleased track, "Last Goodbye" and a re-mastered version of "Road". For music fans who'd prefer the traditional physical media, a CD can be ordered through the Amazon On Demand.
The song listing for the album is: 1. Saving Grace (Acoustic) 2. Open Up Your Eyes (Acoustic) 3. Farewells (Acoustic) 4. Back To You (Acoustic) 5. Feel (Acoustic) 6. Shine (Acoustic) 7. Saving Grace (Electric Version) 8. Last Goodbye (Previously Unreleased) 9. Road (Remastered).
In other news, the Atlanta band, Shattered Silence, will be releasing their debut EP on May 20th via iTunes. The band consists of drummer Chad Wedlake (Mad Margritt), bassist Lee Banks (Sevendust), guitarist Chris Banks (Superconductor) and vocalist Marc Bryant. Described as classic melodic hard rock/metal with a modern edge, the track listing is: One Step Over, Heart Of Stone, Lonely Nights, Desire, Misled (Acoustic Version), Mr. Rainmaker (Warrant cover). For more info on the group, check out their Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/pages/Shattered-Silence/118801918178074.
xx
Monday, April 14, 2014
MELODICROCKFEST 4 - FAITH CIRCUS WITHDRAW:
It is with great regret that MelodicRockFest must break the news that Faith Circus will not be able to join the party in Chicago this October. Band founder Marc Ferrano contacted me last week to offer his sincere apologies, stating that personal circumstances beyond his control would prevent the band from playing the event.
As disappointing as this is, Faith Circus are a terrific outfit and I hope we can continue to spread the word about their great album "Turn Up The Band".
Not wishing to leave a hole in the lineup, I can immediately announce that joining us at the HOME Bar October 3 will be US hard rockers Madman's Lullaby! The guys really wanted to be a part of the show from the get go, so I'm happy to see that a bad situation can be turned into a positive.
As far as everything else MelodicRockFest 4 goes - full steam ahead folks! Tickets are going to press shortly and all VIP pass holders will be notified shortly with a couple of necessary details to be asked.
The rest of the bands lined up are in full swing to be ready to tear apart Chicago in less than 6 months' time!!
Full details and tickets at: www.melodicrockfest.com. LIMITED VIP LEFT!
COMING SHORTLY - We going to do another MelodicRockFest raffle fly someone from anywhere in the world to MRF4 this October!
Good news....The new site is done....structurally and functionally...
3 years and 4 programmers later....we're almost home. The site as it will be would not be possible if not for everyone that's put work into it, there are parts from each programmer under the hood and I couldn't be happier with the result. There is a LOT of changes to the way things have been done for the last decade and some things will take getting used to. But it's no longer a simple HTML site.. This thing is a living beast that categorizes everything and is fully social media interactive....there's options for Facebook users as well as stand-alone log-ins for those that want to avoid FB!
So all I need to do now is add as much content as I can over the next few weeks before inviting those that originally donated to the site to come in and take it for test drive. Can't wait for you all to see it and unveil this thing and get ahead of the game in brining you up to the minute news multiple times per day, not just in one update!
The ALL NEW MelodicRock.com is coming - MAY 2014!
CHICAGO READY FOR NUMBER 36:
Classic American pop/rock band Chicago have announced details and audio previews of their new studio release XXXVI. The official release details will be announced shortly. But from the band's bio:
"In the wild west of the 21st century endeavor of making music, Chicago "NOW" is a new frontier for the iconic "rock band with horns". Putting aside an awesome accumulation of honors, awards, accomplishments, numbers and peer respect, this remarkable group of talented musicians continues to make history with a new recording process geared towards musical excellence, doing the business of music "NOW", while reckoning with the logistical realities of a world-wide touring band. Chicago, with Lee Loughnane spearheading, has customized a new recording system (dubbed "the Rig") that is flexible, powerful, portable, and always travels with the band. "NOW" was performed across a number of locations (mostly hotel rooms), including Nashville, Cleveland, Toledo, New Jersey, Spokane, and many other points across the globe.
In this new collaboration, each of the band's songwriters becomes the "supervising producer" for their compositions. Hank Linderman, musician, and long-time studio engineer for Timothy B. Schmit (Eagles), Don Henley, America, and Robert Lamm, as well as other successful artists, is the "coordinating producer." Hank catalogs the multitude of audio takes and files, bringing logistical and production musicality to a complex procedure. With much effort a private online collaboration portal was created to allow performances to be worked on, around the clock, from remote locations. Chicago has crafted band performances, in sync, with the songwriter, and is already working on their next collection of music!
Tracklisting: Now, More Will Be Revealed, America, Crazy Happy, Free At Last, Love Lives On, Something's Coming, I Know, Watching All The Colors, Nice Girl, Naked In The Garden Of Allah, Another Trippy Day.
WebLink: soundcloud.com/chicago_the_band/sets/now-chicago-xxxvi-cd-preview-1.
HELIX: BASTARD OF THE BLUES:
"Bastard of the Blues" is the 13th full length Helix studio CD, not counting several live CDs and numerous compilation albums, and draws from the vast blues/rock/and metal influences that have driven both writers over the years. Written primarily with Sean Kelly, the CD is a continuation of 2008's "Vagabond Bones" and also contains two songs from the follow-up EP "Skin in the Game." It's now been six years since Kelly and Vollmer combined writing forces, and it shows. The songs are more focused and bigger sounding, the lyrics more concise and catchy. The song "Bastard of the Blues" describes Helix music to a "T"-the unholy co-mingling of blues and rock and roll to produce the bastard child heavy metal; at least the variety Helix has been kicking out for close to 40 years now.
Guesting on background vocals on the track B.O.T.B. is Cheryl Lescom, whom Brian describes as "...the best female blues singer in Canada..." In "Even Jesus (Wasn't Loved In His Hometown)" Vollmer describes how the band can play all over the world (this year they have dates in Spain, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland & the U.S. and are already booked on 2015's Monsters Of Rock Boat Cruise with some of the biggest and brightest metal/hard rock stars of the 80s') but can't get a gig or any respect in their hometown of London, Ontario. Go figure! "Screaming at the Moon" and "Metal At Midnight" are sure to be big European hits as the metal scene continues to thrive there. "Screaming at the Moon" also features Nick Walsh of Slic Toxic (a platinum selling Canadian metal band) on back-up vocals.
The 6th track on the CD, "Hell Bound For A Heartbreak", talks of an addicted gambler, something Brian should know about, having lived many years with a bookie. "...I saw guys come to pick up their winnings at night and leave the next morning over $1,000 in the hole..." comments Vollmer. A first for the band is the ballad "When All The Love Is Gone", sang and written by long-time bass player and member of the band Daryl Gray. It has a very Gary Moore type of feel to it. The 8th track, "Axe to Grind", continues the angst with an angry Alice Cooper feel, followed by "Skin in the Game" and "The Bitch is a Bullet", both from the S.I.T.G. EP. "Skin in the Game" speaks volumes about Vollmer's commitment to staying in the music business against all odds, or as the lyrics state, "...I've got some skin in the game, I'll be staking my claim, I got my balls on the line, I've got some skin in the game..." The idea for "The Bitch Is A Bullet" came from a comment he heard a friend make who was going through a particularly nasty divorce. The last track on the CD, "Sticks & Stones" is reminiscent of early Aerosmith, and talks about those individuals who take dangerous chances thinking they are invincible and end up killing themselves or quadriplegic in a wheelchair. So far Vollmer has been able to avoid that....
Bastard Of The Blues is released via Perris Records in May.
WebLink: www.planethelix.com.
COLDPSELL BACK TO THE USA IN MAY:
Swedish rockers Coldspell are back in the USA for a small US tour. Check them out if you can!
8 May PubRocK – Scottsdale – US
9 May The Vault – Albuquerque – US
10 May LVCS – Las Vegas – US (with Leathatherwolf)
ANGEL: 1978 LIVE INTRO FILM UNEARTHED AFTER 36-YEARS!:
It's not every day that never-before-seen Angel footage from the 1970s surfaces. Even more rare, this live film contains the only publicly-available moving images of the infamous Angel introduction which featured all five band members "magically" appearing in their own cubicle box. This is the first time in 36 years; any footage has been seen of Angel's now legendary illusions. The Super 8mm film, which includes the original concert audio, was frame by frame restored and is viewable in it's native aspect ratio in 720p here: (www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mmgp0ahAIoA)
It was recorded on May 10, 1978 during a stop on the band's White Hot tour in Fresno, California which also featured The Godz. Along with label mates Kiss, Angel were signed to Casablanca Records during their 1975-'80 peak years. Angel's live introduction's was previously written about in great detail in the 2009 book, And Party Every Day: The Inside Story Of Casablanca Records by Label VP Larry Harris (with Curt Gooch and Jeff Suhs) and a feature-length movie, directed by Spike Lee called Spinning Gold begins production this fall. It stars Justin Timberlake as Casablanca Records President Neil Bogart. The film is slated to be released in 2015.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS WITH DUG PINNICK (KINGS X / KXM), TY TABOR (KINGS X) AND H.E.A.T.: Rich Davenport's Rock Show this week features an exclusive Kings X special, featuring interviews with Dug Pinnick (also of KXM) and Ty Tabor, plus a chat with H.E.A.T. drummer Crash, and is available now for streaming at this link: www.mixcloud.com/richdav1/rich-davenports-rock-show-kings-x-special-with-dug-pinnick-ty-tabor-plus-heat-interview/
In the first hour of the show, Dug Pinnick talks about his chart-storming new band KXM, which features George Lynch (Lynch Mob, Ex-Dokken) and Ray Luzier (Korn), describing how the band got together, the musical chemistry between the three members, and their touring plans. You'll also hear two tracks from their self-titled debut album. Dug then looks at the new reissue of the first Kings X album, "Out Of The Silent Planet", out now on Rock Candy Records (www.rockcandyrecords.com ), giving an insight into the development of the band's trademark sound, how they secured a record deal, and the recording of and reaction to the album.
In part two, Kings X guitarist Ty Tabor also looks back at "Out Of The Silent Planet", and gives further insight into the origins of the sound of the band, their early years, the recording of the debut album, and the reaction to it from fans and critics. Ty also gives the low down on his brand-new solo album "Nobody Wins When Nobody Plays" (out now on www.molkenmusic.com) The show features Dug and Ty's choice of songs from "Out Of The Silent Planet", along with tracks from the KXM album and from Ty's new solo release.
And finally, H.E.A.T. drummer Crash talks about the band's new release "Tearing Down The Walls", and selects a pair of songs from the album. Plus a classic track from Thin Lizzy, and the new single from rising Scottish rockers The Broken Ravens.
You can also listen on Sunday 13th April 15:00-17:00 GMT and Wednesday 16th April 22:00-00.00 GMT on www.totalrock.com, and on demand on hot new Texas rock and metal station KXZR Radio at www.kxzr.fm.
NEW SHOWCASES:
4 new CD Showcases added today - Neal Schon & Timo Tolkki Avalon (Frontiers Records, May 16 release) and Outloud & Mother Road (AOR Heaven, May 23 release). Check them out.
Friday, April 11, 2014
NIGHT RANGER'S NEW STUDIO ALBUM "HIGH ROAD" CONFIRMED FOR JUNE RELEASE VIA FRONTIERS RECORDS:
Iconic arena-rockers Night Ranger are set to release their new studio album, High Road, on June 6 in Europe and June 10 in North America via label home Frontiers Records. Produced by the band itself, High Road will be available in two formats – a standard CD version and a deluxe version which includes two bonus tracks and a DVD featuring a background look at the making of the album along with video clips. To access the full size cover art for High Road, which incorporates elements of the artwork from the band's previous releases, please click here and see below for the full track listing.
High Road can be pre-ordered now at Amazon as the Standard Version , and as the High Road (CD/DVD Deluxe Edition). The album's full track listing can be seen below. Look for the band to tour North America and around the globe this year in support of High Road.
Of the new album, frontman/bassist/songwriter Jack Blades commented, "It's almost summer and a great time to take a trip down the High Road! Our new record features classic Night Ranger feel-good, high-energy kick-ass rock n' roll. We can't wait for our fans to hear." Drummer/singer Kelly Keagy added, "We're so proud of this new record and excited to get back on the road to bring the new music to our fans."
Night Ranger's legendary hits "Sister Christian," "(You Can Still) Rock in America," and "Don't Tell Me You Love Me" are songs that have each significantly impacted popular culture and expanded their ever-growing fanbase since the band's inception thirty years ago. Over the years, the band's music has made notable contributions to and been featured in many different areas of media and popular culture. Night Ranger's songs can be heard in the Rock Band and Guitar Hero video games; Rock of Ages hit Broadway musical and film; the Oscar-nominated film Boogie Nights; Fox's hit TV Show American Dad; JBL's "Hear The Truth" campaign; and many more! To date, Night Ranger has sold 17 million units worldwide and boasts several platinum- and gold-certified albums. Night Ranger is Jack Blades (bass guitar, vocals), Kelly Keagy (drums, vocals), Brad Gillis (lead & rhythm guitars), Joel Hoekstra (lead & rhythm guitars) and Eric Levy (keyboards).
Night Ranger High Road track listing: 1. High Road 2. Knock Knock Never Stop 3. Rollin' On 4. Don't Live Here Any More 5. I'm Coming Home 6. X Generation 7. Only For You Only 8. Hang On 9. St. Bartholomew 10. Brothers 11. L.A. No Name* 12. The Mountain Song* *only available on deluxe edition.
For more information please visit: www.nightranger.com / www.frontiers.it.
xx
INSIDE THE VERTIGO WITH JEFF SCOTT SOTO'S NEW SOTO RELEASE:
From Jeff Scott Soto Official Facebook earlier today - this is your first teaser from the upcoming Soto release - details to be revealed soon.
"Here you go folks, check out all the info as I don't need to repeat myself here…the slamming tune was co-written with Mike Orlando of Adrenaline Mob, who is also playing all the guitar work here! The new album is HEAVY, its a new band, a new dawn and direction for me, for us…for SOTO!"
Soto - Inside The Vertigo ~ Press Release and Bio Soto, a new band which is the culmination of one of today's premier Rock frontmen and vocalists, Jeff Scott Soto, cast with a union of hotshot young musicians to bring you a slamming blend of melody and muscle in some of the freshest power metal to surface in years present their debut album, Inside The Vertigo. Jeff explains, ''I've been in the game for a long time but my roots started more on the heavier side of the tracks, I thought it was about time I came home to visit the family and stick around for a while!''
The band is comprised of Jeff's most current solo band, who he insisted on making this musical merge with him. Jorge Salan (lead guitar), BJ (keys, guitars), David Z (bass) and Edu Cominato (drums). Soto adds ''these guys come from different parts of the world and bring their own influence to make this band very special. From the US to Europe to South America, we have an exciting mix of style and prestige that keeps us all on our toes''.
A neurotic blend of power metal, prog, groove-laden huge guitars, hooks and production, Soto is a contender in today's modern rock arena while capturing the essence of strong songwriting simultaneously.
Jeff adds, ''the past 5 or more years have spurred me a plethora of anger and frustration, I'm actually quite pissed off about a lot of things, Soto is my outlet to release some of this pent up emotion. We realize there are a lot of folks young and old who may be sharing these thoughts so this is especially for them too. We're not reinventing the wheel here, we're just creating an outlet for where our hearts are both musically and mentally…I'm just not in a 'touch your golden hair' mood right now!''
Songs like Break, The Fall, Wrath, Narcissistically Yours and Final Say are perfect vehicles of raw emotion. Songs like When I'm Older, Karma's Kiss, to the title track Inside The Vertigo and the 9+ minute epic End Of Days advocate a modern day reality/wake-up call.
Produced by Jeff Scott Soto, the album features tracks co-written with his bandmates as well as a of his famous friends/colleagues. Collaborators include guitarists Gus G (Firewind, Ozzy), Jason Bieler (Saigon Kick), Mike Orlando (Adrenaline Mob) and Joel Hoekstra (Night Ranger/TSO), all of whom perform on their penned tracks for the album. Others appearing as guests/co-writers are Casey Grillo (Kamelot), Connor Engstrom, Tony Dickinson, Leo Mancini, Hugo Mariutti and Gary Schutt.
The album was recorded during the latter months of 2013 and mixed/mastered in Boston by Soto's long time engineer and friend John Ellis. ''Everyone from John to my amazing co-writers to some of my bandmates, especially Edu who was extremely instrumental on helping me stay on course musically, get overall credit for creating this album. I oversaw it as a whole knowing the vision I wanted to capture but I truly had a lot of help from my bros that appear on this masterpiece!'' exclaims Soto.
Watch for the Soto release Inside The Vertigo to drop within the second half of 2014 followed by extensive touring and appearances throughout 2015.
GOTTHARD LAUNCH TOUR WITH TWO WARM UP GIGS:
Luca from Gotthard's Italian fanclub sent me this yesterday, which I thought I would pass on for all Gotthard fans:
Setlist - Let Me In Katie (Intro), Bang, Get Up 'N' Move, Feel What I Feel, Remember It's Me, Right Now, Hush, C'Est La Vie, Heaven, Spread Your Wings, Jump The Gun, My Belief, Sister Moon, Lift You Up, Anytime Anywhere // One Life One Soul, Starlight, Top Of The World, Mighty Queen.
REVIEWS UPDATED: New Reviews online today for: H.E.A.T, Winger, Three Lions, Sebastian Bach and In-Brief Reviews for John Elefante, Dream Theater, Reckless Love, Houston and a couple more.... Read The Reviews now.
MRX: MRX has been updated once again with the first part of the Billboard Rock Top 40 chart from 1989. Go grab before the complete series has to go to make room for new stuff! Join MRX Now.
LOUD LION & THE RADIO SUN - PRE-ORDERS OPEN - BONUS CD DEAL AGAIN!: MRR Pre-Sale for Loud Lion "Die Tough" and The Radio Sun "Wrong Things Right" is OPEN NOW. Official release date May 19. Pre-orders will ship out starting early March for delivery prior to release date. Each showcase contains soundbytes for all tracks!
Each disc is $15 + $5 Airmail Shipping.
ORDER BOTH AND GET BONUS CD! Choose from either MRCD7, MRCD10, Fenrik Lane or Violet Sun!
Bonus discs shipped without jewel case to keep package as large letter for faster delivery.
PRE-ORDER NOW and thanks for supporting these 2 fine artists.
Loud Lion - Die Tough (MRR015)
$15 + $5 airmail shipping worldwide. Will ship out starting early May.
Click for Showcase
The Radio Sun (MRR020)
$15 + $5 airmail shipping worldwide. Will ship out starting early May.
Click for Showcase
OR
ORDER
BOTH CDs
xx
Loud Lion & The Radio Sun CDs
+ Bonus CD $33 (Includes Airmail Shipping)
Thursday, April 10, 2014
CALIFORNIA BREED PREMIERES VIDEO FOR "MIDNIGHT OIL" SINGLE:
The celebrated hard rock power trio, California Breed, which consists of Glenn Hughes (vocals, bass), Jason Bonham (drums) and Andrew Watt (guitar), will premiere the official lyric video for their current single Midnight Oil on Wednesday April 9 via Classic Rock's website. Fans can now enjoy the clip here also:
The song is also available from today as an instant grat track by pre-ordering the album exclusively from iTunes worldwide via this link: smarturl.it/CaliforniaBreed. The animated lyric video was created by Nev Todoroic who spearheads the interactive media production company The Young Astronauts.
Says California Breed's guitarist, Andrew Watt - "We wanted to a lyric video that would make people want to watch this song in addition to just listen to it, one that would highlight the bombastic grooves of the track and convey the rhythm of the message. I turned to my friends, the Young Astronauts, whose previous videos have hundreds of millions of views, but they who don't work with a lot of rock bands and I thought THAT'S the magic, right there." "It's a refreshing animated video that really captures the lyrical concert and message of the Midnight Oil single," says California Breed's vocalist and bassist, Glenn Hughes. "We didn't want to make a run-of-the-mill lyric video. The animation perfectly captures the raw energy, lyrical content and the message of what Midnight Oil is really all about... rock n roll!!"
Midnight Oil is UK's first single taken from California Breed's self-titled debut album which is released in Europe on May 16 and UK/US on May 19 on Frontiers Records. The new album was produced in Nashville, Tennessee by Dave Cobb (Rival Sons, Jamey Johnson, Shooter Jennings) and features 23-year-old guitarist Andrew Watt, who was originally introduced to Glenn Hughes by Julian Lennon at a party in LA in 2013.
California Breed are planning a UK and European tour in September. Tour dates will be announced in the coming weeks.
For further information please visit www.californiabreed.com / facebook.com/CaliforniaBreed.
KARL COCHRANE BEATING THE ODDS!:
A good news update on guitarist Karl Cochrane's condition. From his Facebook page earlier today:
"Hi Everyone, This will be the last daily update, as Karl has beat the odds, and is out of life threatening danger. From now on, it will be weekly, or if something super spectacular happens, sooner. I will leave the updates to the few visitors we are allowing, and allow them to tell their cool stories about Karl if they would like to share. I cannot tell you what your prayers, well wishes, positive reinforcements, and overall concern have meant to his friends, family, and especially his mother and father. Keep the comments and Facebook private messages coming. I read them to Karl every time I see him (when he's not grabbing the phone from my hand trying to do it himself). I don't respond to them all, but believe me, they are read.
The rehabilitation process has begun for Karl, and he now needs time, patience, and most importantly, the privacy to work through this with the help of his family and a select group of close friends. Our one and only concern is getting Karl healthy and mobile, and allowing him to do this in peace and privacy. So, we are restricting visitors to family, and a few close friends, until Karl is able and willing to tell us his wishes. If you have any questions, concerns, or requests, please forward them to me, Chris Mitchell (I don't have a FB account) at webmaster@karlcochran.com. I will respond to you as soon as possible. Keep the faith!"
NEW ARP VIDEO DEBUTS: Axel Rudi Pell releases a new video for the song Long Way To Go, taken from the chart album Into The Storm. The video was directed by Tim Assmann. You can see the video here: youtu.be/3tLsZa7wk6Q.
July 11 will see Axel Rudi Pell celebrate his 25th anniversary as a solo artist by performing a very special show at the prestigious Bang Your Head Festival, in Balingen, Germany. Not only will he be joined on stage by some very special guests, but he will also be reunited with the original members from his former band Steeler. This is a show not to be missed! www.bang-your-head.de/home.php
Then Axel Rudi Pell will continue with the second part of the Into the Storm-Tour. A new date has already been added to the schedule, 19th September 2014, Switzerland, Once again, they will be supported by young German newcomers Rebellious Spirit, who were so impressive on the first part of the tour, they've been invited back.
LIZHARD IS LOOKING FOR A NEW SINGER :
It's been a long ride together and a wonderful adventure but due to unexpected events the band and Luke Marsilio decided by mutual agreement to separate their ways. Luke is no longer in Lizhard, he has got new priorities and he's moved in a different direction than us, but we must go on our way keeping Lizhard alive in respect of our friends and fans. We wish him the best of luck and will always value and thank him for the time he spent in our band. After touring through Europe and opening for bands like Glenn Hughes, White Lione, Eric Martin, Bonfire, Soul Doctor and many others, we've finished the new full length and we want you to sing it along with some friends like Marco Mendoza and Paul Shortino who already participates to this new great album. We want you...to join the big family!
Candidates looking to apply should send an email to management@lizhard.com. We will send you a vocal-free music, you should record the vocals and email tracks back along with full contact information and picture to the e-mail address listed above. Candidates are also encouraged to send us a link to a video or personal YouTube page (where it's possible to see materials from their own bands or work).
We expect from you the following:
1. You must have great singing skills.
2. You have to be awesome on the stage.
3. English mother tongue or perfect English speaking.
Lizhard will be considering entries throughout next months and hope to announce a new vocalist before the end of August 2014. E-mail for submission and for all questions: management@lizhard.com / www.lizhard.com.
PYRAMAZE: "IMMORTAL" RE-ISSUE ANNOUNCED:
The classic Pyramaze album "Immortal" will be re-issued through Inner Wound Recordings on May 9th in Europe and May 13th in North America. "Immortal" was originally released in 2008 and received fantastic response within the metal community. The album feat. Matt Barlow [ex. Iced Earth] on vocals on all tracks and marked his return to the metal scene. "Immortal" was mixed and mastered by Jacob Hansen [Volbeat, Amaranthe, Pretty Maids] and the artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco [Blind Guardian, Rhapsody of Fire, Iced Earth]. The re-issue feat. track commentary and album history written by Pyramaze guitarist and founder Michael Kammeyer.
"Immortal" track listing: 01. Arise 02. Year of the Phoenix 03. Ghost Light 04. Touched by the Mara 05. A Beautiful Death 06. Legacy in a Rhyme 07. Caramon's Poem 08. The Highland 09. Shadow of the Beast 10. March through an Endless Rain.
WINGER UNLEASH THIRD VIDEO FROM UPCOMING OPUS:
Today, GuitarWorld.com presents the exclusive premiere of Tin Soldier, the new music video by Winger. The song is from the band's new album (and first in five years), Better Days Comin', which will be released April 22 via Frontiers Records. "Tin Soldier" showcases Winger building on their previous album's tendency toward prog-rock, delivering an intricate landscape that basks in harmonic, melodic components that weave through three different time signatures. Winger doing prog rock? It's not a total shocker.
Frontman, composer and producer Kip Winger acknowledges Rush's Geddy Lee as a major influence. Winger (the man) has fronted the Alan Parsons Project on tour and collaborated with Dream Theater keyboardist Jordan Rudess on several projects, along with Winger drummer Rod Morgenstein. "I remember when I saw the first Winger video many years ago," Rudess said. "I was struck by the high level of musicality within the band and the charisma of Kip Winger. I can still feel the magic and the power of this group. "I've had the amazing fortune to work with Rod Morgenstein, one of the greatest drummers on the planet. He can play anything from solid rock to the craziest prog I can think of. I've also worked with Kip. His voice and musicianship shine through anything he touches, whether it's singing Rudess, Gentle Giant or ELP songs on my albums, creating original orchestral music in his own compositions or leading Winger."
Deep Purple guitarist Steve Morse, who's also in Dixie Dregs with Morgenstein, added: "When I saw these guys live, I couldn't believe how good they sounded. I prefer bands that have many different influences; you know, the further you look, the more varied experiences and styles you'll find. That's what makes the music interesting on top of the great writing and performances. I witnessed them all bend over backwards to help keep a young musician's musical dream alive. After that, I describe them as my heroes."
Winger guitarist Reb Beach added: "[The album] is kind of a cross between our last two albums, IV and Karma. It has elements of both. There's a very progressive song on there called 'Tin Soldier' [Hear it below], and then there are rock songs like 'Rat Race' and 'Midnight Driver of a Love Machine' a la Karma." For the rest of this interview, head here.
Winger also features John Roth on guitar.
Better Days Comin' is available for pre-order in standard and deluxe configurations. The deluxe edition includes the track "Another Beautiful Day" and a DVD with a making-of documentary and videos for "Rat Race" and the title track.
GUITAR LEGEND NEAL SCHÖN'S VIDEO "EXOTICA" HAS EXCLUSIVE WORLDWIDE PREMIERE: Neal Schön fans can click here to check out the exclusive worldwide premiere of the video for "Exotica" on Vintage Guitar. The psychedelic video, which includes commentary from Schön, Mendoza and Castronovo, is the first from the forthcoming jazz and blues-inspired hard rock studio album, SO U, and is one of two instrumental tracks from the effort. SO U features Schön along with bassist Marco Mendoza (Black Star Riders, Ted Nugent, Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy) and drummer Deen Castronovo (Journey, Ozzy Osbourne, Steve Vai, Hardline) splitting vocal and writing duties, with many of the tracks also co-written by Night Ranger/Damn Yankee's songwriter, singer and bassist Jack Blades. SO U will be available on May 16 in Europe and May 19 in North America via Frontiers Records. The album can be pre-ordered now via iTunes, Amazon and via the Journey online store; those who purchase SO U now via iTunes will receive "Exotica" as an instant gratification track.
Best known as founding member and lead guitarist of Journey, Neal Schön has enjoyed a remarkable career as one of rock n' roll's top virtuosos, with a hand in creating some of the most popular songs of all time. Beginning his career more than 35 years ago in the San Francisco Bay area, the 15-year-old guitar prodigy left home to join Santana. Schön moved on in 1973 to form Journey. With Journey and other projects, he has earned 19 Top 40 singles and 25 platinum and gold albums, was awarded the prestigious "Legend Of Live Award" at the 2011 Billboard Touring Awards, received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005 and was individually inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall Of Fame in 2013. As the only member to record on all of Journey's albums, Schön continues with the band today in its latest incarnation.
In addition to 6 solo albums and 14 studio albums with Journey, Neal Schön has also performed with Joe Cocker, Sammy Hagar, Paul Rodgers, Larry Graham, Betty Davis, Michael Bolton, fusion legend Jan Hammer, Hardline and supergroup Bad English, as well as a variety of side projects. His latest instrumental solo album, The Calling, released in 2012 via Frontiers Records, won rave reviews from fans and the media alike, with Vintage Guitar declaring "The Calling is a fine piece of work demonstrating that Schön still has it going on – and then some…The songs are strong and his guitar tones are absolutely luxurious." In demand as one of the leading guitarists of his generation, Schön also worked with Gibson to manufacture his own limited edition "Neal Schön Signature Model Custom Les Paul" guitar, but now uses custom PRS Neal Schon LTD Private Stock guitars, made especially for Neal by Paul Reed Smith.
For more information please visit: www.schonmusic.com.
I'M NOT YOUR SUICIDE - NEW RELEASE BY STRYPERS' MICHAEL SWEET :
Produced by Michael Sweet himself, the Stryper frontman's new solo album "I'm Not Your Suicide" includes special appearances by Tony Harnell [TNT], Kevin Max [DC-Talk, Audio Adrenaline] Chris Jericho [Fozzy], Doug Aldrich [Whitesnake], Electra Mustaine [daughter of Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine] and Stryper bandmates Robert Sweet and Timothy Gaines. Legendary drummer Kenny Aronoff [Chickenfoot] played on the record as well.
"I'm Not Your Suicide" track listing: 01. Taking On The World Tonight (featuring Tony Harnell) 02. All That's Left (For Me To Prove) 03. The Cause 04. This Time (featuring Kevin Max) 05. I'm Not Your Suicide (co-written with Blair Daly) 06. Coming Home 07. Miles Away 08. Strong 09. How To Live (featuring Robert Sweet and Timothy Gaines of Stryper) 10. Heart Of Gold 11. Anybody Else (featuring Chris Jericho and Doug Aldrich) 12. Unsuspecting 13. Heart Of Gold (featuring Electra Mustaine) (bonus Track).
LANEY'S LEGION - POPTASTIC VIDEO AND DIGITAL RELEASE:
The Godfather of Swedish Glam and Sleaze Chris Laney's band Laney's Legion has released the second digital single Poptastic on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon today. The band has also release their first video from the "Self Titled" release. The "Self Titled" full length CD will be released April 22 worldwide. YouTube link: youtu.be/CDbCkk2NPyA.
Laney's Legion features Chris Laney (Zan Clan, Randy Piper's Animal), Rob Marcello (Danger Danger), Mats Vassfjord (Grand Design, Impera) and Patrik Jansson (Helsingland Underground).
How can you be truly unique in music today? Well, it's hard. Many bands focus too much on image, attitude or whatever and forget about the music. At the end of the day, the only thing that matters is the song: The Song Is King! Laney's Legion deliver a debut album full of surprises. Chris Laney has made a name for himself in the hard rock world writing, producing, mixing and winning Grammy awards with bands like Candlemass, Dynazty, Europe and H.E.A.T. After two successful and critically acclaimed solo albums "Pure" (2009) and "Only Come Out At Night" (2010) he's now back with a new album. But instead of returning with a third solo album, the forthcoming full-length feature will be the debut album for his new band: Laney'sLegion. "I really missed the feeling of having a real band. I wanted to go back to the basics", says Chris. Laney is of course still handling lead vocals and rhythm guitars. Joining him is drummer Patrik Jansson (Hellsingland Underground) and bass player Mats Vassfjord (Grand Design, Impera).
They are both sought after session players in the Swedish music circuit, and toured with Laney on his last tours. Last but not least, the brand new quartet is complete with the highly acclaimed guitar virtuoso Rob Marcello (Danger Danger). This time, it's all about the music: "My solo albums were pretty much recorded and written in a rush. This time I didn't wanna stress anything. This time I only wanted the best songs possible". In order to achieve this, he brought in longtime partner Anders Ringman to help out with writing and
producing. The multi-platinum songwriting duo, aka Platform, has a 15-year collaboration history featuring work with Crashdďet, Crucified Barbara, Steevi Jaimz and others. "It was the natural choice. We work so well together", Chris says. And with contributions from everybody in the band, Laney's Legion have produced an album containing nothing but solid, melodic sing-along tunes. "We're not trying to reinvent the wheel here. What it all come downs to is the music. And there are surprises. We're not just doing the normal hard glamrock our fans might expect, we rock, we pop and no one can stop us now!"
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/laneyslegion / www.chrislaney.com / www.perrisrecords.com.
RED DRAGON CARTEL ADD UK DATE:
Former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Jake E. Lee has today announced that his new band Red Dragon Cartel will play The Tivoli, Buckley on Friday June 13 as part of their forthcoming UK Tour. The tour follows Red Dragon Cartel's eponymous debut album, released by Frontiers Records earlier this year. Special guests on all UK dates are Syron Vanes and Jupiter Falls. Red Dragon Cartel will also play Download Festival on Sunday June 15. Their new single "Shout It Out" is out now.
Red Dragon Cartel – June 2014 UK Tour:
London's O2 Academy Islington Friday June 6
Nottingham Rescue Rooms Saturday June 7
Wolverhampton Slade Rooms Sunday June 8
Glasgow Classic Grand Tuesday June 10
Newcastle O2 Academy 2 Wednesday June 11
The Tivoli, Buckley Friday June 13
Download Festival Sunday June 15
THE WILLIE HINES BAND SAYS "WHATEVER":
After Jet Red drifted apart in the early 90's, Willie Hines focused on writing songs that led to his first solo album "Yeahright" in 2000. After several years of trials and tribulations that included some medical issues and dealing with the lovely global economic downturn that we all experienced, Willie Hines has resurfaced with the Willie Hines Band. Their recent release, "Whatever", is a labor of love that was put together over several years culminating in an eclectic 12 song album that emerged as an unofficial "homage" to the rock music and musicians who've inspired Hines since the 1960s.
Hines notes: "I think it's the music that gets you through. No matter how bad a day you have, you get to pick up your guitar. Everybody gets beat down. Life does that. You just pick yourself back up."
Where does one start? The latest release from the Willie Hines Band covers a tremendous amount of territory. If you want pop sensibility, you get it in songs like "Say Hello", "Hippie Chick", and "Downtown". If you want a straight ahead rock tune, then "Boyd's Party" is definitely in the sweet spot along with "Solitare" not far behind. If you want circa Led Zep sound, then "The Drift" is right there with big time nods to the mighty Plant/Page machine. If you want power-pop-rock, then "Smile" is the song that will get you singing the chorus immediately and wanting more! There is not a dull moment of sound on this album.
Much has changed musically since Willie Hines was singing for The Lights and Jet Red but one thing remains constant- Willie Hines continues to bring finely crafted music to those who are willing to find it. With the input of Jeffery Babineau (guitar, backing vocals, and much more!), John Wise (bass, keys, backing vocals), and Michael "Fro" Frowein (drums, backing vocals; ex- George Lynch, Jeff Pilson's War & Peace), the album sparkles with talented musicianship including appearances by Brad Lang (current Y&T bassist, Jet Red) and Steve Brown (drums for Montrose, Oleander, Jet Red).
Will this album make the charts? Not likely due to the state of the fractured music industry today where great talent is overlooked while posers somehow get a seat in the spotlight. Nonetheless, if you are a fan of real music being made by real people, then this album is for you. Rock on!!
Track listing: Say Hello, Solitare, Downtown, The Drift, Honeymoon Junkie, Greta Garbo, Everybody Else, Smile, Gypsy's Gift, Hippie Chick, Boyd's Party, Goodbye.
The CD is available via www.williehinesband.com or Amazon: tinyurl.com/WHB-Whatever.
SLASH TO JOIN AEROSMITH FOR "LET ROCK RULE"NORTH AMERICAN SUMMER TOUR:
Who better to declare "Let Rock Rule" than Aerosmith, America's Greatest Rock Band?
Rock's most lethal army--Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Joey Kramer, Tom Hamilton, and Brad Whitford--and special guest Slash featuring Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators will join forces for "Let Rock Rule," this summer's definitive rock & roll experience.
Promoted exclusively by Live Nation, the Let Rock Rule tour kicks off on Thursday, July 10 at Nikon at Jones Beach Theatre in Wantagh, NY (see full itinerary below). Aerosmith and Slash--longtime friends who've performed together throughout the years--will also take over Boston, MA. (Xfinity Center), Los Angeles, CA (The Forum) and San Francisco, CA (Sleep Train Pavilion) among other cities, before wrapping Friday, September 12 in Sydney, NS, Canada (Open Hearth Park).
This summer's hottest ticket will go on sale to the general public starting on Saturday, April 12 through the Live Nation mobile app and at www.livenation.com. The first round of tour dates are below with additional dates for a second leg to be announced shortly.
"Looking forward to inciting a riot and building the tribal bonfire even higher--it's a win win with Slash," said Steven Tyler.
Says Joe Perry: "The writing's on the wall--Aerosmith and Slash. We're gonna let rock rule this summer. Catch us if you can."
Says Slash: "Aerosmith is one of my all time favorite bands, and one of the greatest rock 'n roll bands of all time. It's an honor for me to go out & tour with them and keep the rock 'n roll banner flying high."
The excitement all started when Joe Perry took it to the streets with Risk, the famous graffiti artist, last Thursday night for "Let Rock Rule" and things began ramping up mysteriously when the Aerosmith logo, and the tour announcement date of 4.8.14, was bombed on various buildings in downtown Los Angeles by Joe Perry and Risk. Following this, Aerosmith drummer Joey Krammer stepped up the momentum and went to Downtown Austin with street artist, Chunk, to continue the "Let Rock Rule" tagging. It was all first reported by TMZ--www.tmz.com/2014/04/04/joe-perry-grafitti-aerosmith-spray-paint-logo-tour/--and the "bombing" has continued every night.
Joe Perry says, "I have always felt that Aerosmith was Americas hometown band and what better way than to take matters into our own hands to spread the word."
Earlier today (April 8) Steven Tyler and Joe Perry revealed--on the Ryan Seacrest radio show--that they would perform a free set to announce the "Let Rock Rule" tour. Aerosmith, with a special guest appearance by Slash, played a roof-raising set for the assembled crowd at the Whisky A Go Go, the historic Los Angeles venue where they performed their first LA gig in 1973.
Aerosmith's North American summer dates will follow the band's overseas dates kicking off May 14 in Istanbul, Turkey and will hit 16 countries including stops in Russia, France, and the U.K. before wrapping July 2 in Kiev, Ukraine.
Slash and his bandmates Myles Kennedy and The ConspiratorsMyles Kennedy (vocals), Brent Fitz (drums), Todd Kerns (bass) and Frank Sidoris (guitar)--will return this September with their third studio album, title TBA and second album with this line-up. The group is currently in the studio putting the finishing touches on the follow-up to 2012's Apocalyptic Love which is being helmed by producer Michael "Elvis" Baskette (Alter Bridge, Falling In Reverse, Incubus). The group is recording a total of 17 songs--including one instrumental. "It's very rock. It's more up-tempo than the last record was," states vocalist Kennedy. "Slash has got some really great riffs on this record. Killer stuff…" "The material on this album is more serious and more fun at the same time, which is a tough balance," adds bassist Todd Kerns. "The songs are sleazier, tougher and more dangerous. We're all very excited to unleash the monster upon you as soon as we can."
Following the summer run with Aerosmith, the group will return to the U.K. and Europe. Expect more shows to be announced shortly.
Tour Dates: www.aerosmith.com/welcome#tour.
THE VEER UNION TO RELEASE DELUXE EDITION: The Veer Union will release the Deluxe Edition of Divide The Blackened Sky which includes three new songs and re-mastered tracks. The album will be released on June 10, 2014 through Pavement Entertainment and distributed by MRI/Sony RED. Frontman Crispin Earl gives us his take on the album, "Divide The Blackened Sky, is a much darker and heavier effort than our previous works. It depicts all the hard times we have been through over the last couple of years".
The band will be supporting this effort with a full tour, with a new single and video "Borderline" featuring (Jonny Hetherington) from the band Art of Dying. The Veer Union was founded in 2004 by singer/songwriter Crispin Earl in Vancouver, Canada. The band made their mark in 2009 with the top 10 hit single "Seasons" off their debut album "Against The Grain", which peaked at #7 and was the longest charting rock song for a new artist that year. It became the theme song for the 2009 Stanley Cup winners, the Pittsburgh Penguins. "Seasons" was also featured in all Major League Baseball postseason telecast as well as NFL, NASCAR, ESPN, WWE, NHL and more.
Look out for a brand new studio album from The Veer Union in 2015.
LabelLink: www.pavementmusic.com.
WILLIAMS/CHAMPLIN/FRIESTEDT UPDATED LIVE IN CONCERT DVD: TOTO singer Joseph Williams and Bill Champlin formerly of the band Chicago joins forces with renowned guitarist and songwriter Peter Friestedt. Together they did a European Tour in 2012 with an all-star band featuring Bill's wife Tamara Champlin and Herman Matthews – known for his work with Tower Of Power and Kenny Loggins. The tour was a huge success with sold out venues and great reviews. One of the concerts was filmed and recorded, and here we have the magic captured on stage. Bill Champlin is a two time Grammy award winning Artist that is well known for his 28 years with the group Chicago. Bill has appeared on countless of records and is also a founding member of the group Sons Of Champlin. Bill has sung on many major hit songs such as the #1 Billboard song "Look Away".
Joseph Williams is the lead singer of Toto. He is featured on the hit albums "Fahrenheit" (1986) and "The Seventh One" (1988). He has also written extensively for films and been a session singer. He can also be heard on the blockbuster soundtrack to Disney's "The Lion King" where he is the singing voice of the adult Simba with songs like "Hakuna Matata" and "Can You Feel The Love Tonight".
Guitarist, composer, producer and major-label artist Peter Frienstedt has released two own acclaimed albums "LA Project" (2002) and "LA Project II" (2008). The album received top reviews and was called 'best Westcoast records in years. "Peter has recently toured with Chicago singer Bill Champlin, Joseph Williams and Artist Michael Ruff. In 2011 Peter and Joseph Williams released the Top charting and critically acclaimed album Williams/Friestedt.
The Japanese DVD release of this concert features an improved footage edit and a Bonus track - Tamara Champlin's You wont get to heaven alive.
LIVE4AOR, TRUE METAL & IZKAR PRODUCCIONES PRESENT: A HARD ROCK NIGHT FESTIVAL 2014 SPAIN:
Live4aor, True Metal & Izkar Producciones Present: A Hard Rock Night Festival 2014 Spain featuring the following bands: 23rd. May Madrid Sala We Rock Grand Design (Sweden), Degreed (Sweden), Airless (Spa), Tokio (Spa), Bon Vivant (Spa) Tickets: www.ticketea.com/a-hard-rock-night-madrid/ 24th May Zaragoza La Casa del Loco Grand Design (Sweden), Degreed (Sweden), Airless (Spa), Hardreams (Spa), Bon Vivant (Spa) Tickets: www.ticketea.com/a-hard-rock-night-zaragoza/
Info: www.facebook.com/events/216173171906613/
CAPTAIN BLACK BEARD REVEAL BEFORE PLASTIC: Dead End Exit Records (a division of RoastingHouse) will the new Captain Black Beard album Before Plastic on May 23. The video clip for the track "Somebody" can be found here: youtu.be/vtHXEnYSN4U.
Captain Black Beard made it's live debut on the 31st of October 2009 and has since been playing most of the clubs in Stockholm. At the end of 2010 the band decided to pick it up a notch and record a full length album. Having been in talks with the biggest rock producers in Sweden - Chips Kiesbye (Sator, The Hellacopters), Tobias Lindell (Europe, Mustasch), Patrik Frisk (Takida, Corroded) - the band chose to work with David Castillo (Opeth, Katatonia) who had already shown himself capable when working on the bands single "Rock Is My Life". The completion of the CD was celebrated together with hundreds of friends and fans at Göta Källare in Stockholm on the 28th of May, 2011. In the fall the band made their first concerts abroad as they did a short tour of the U.S.
Captain Black Beard's debut CD has been hailed in the press with tons of great reviews all over the world, from Australia to Brazil, in magazines such as Classic Rock, Classic Rock AOR, Sweden Rock, Fireworks, Power Play, Black Velvet and Red Hot Rock. It was also named one of the "Albums Of The Year So Far" by legendary journalist Geoff Barton of Classic Rock. 2012 saw the band playing in the U.K. for the first time, headlining Summer Nights Rock Fest and gearing up for the next album, among other things.
Most of 2013 has been dedicated to the making of the bands second album, and they signed a deal with Dead End Exit Records in the beginning of 2014. "Before Plastic" will be released in May 2014 with lots of live performances to follow.
Line-up: Sakaria Björklund - vocals/guitar, Victor Högberg – drums, Robert Majd – bass, Christian Ek - guitar
Guest guitar solos: Bruce Kulick (Kiss), Mats Karlsson (220 Volt, The Summit)
Tracks: 01 - Please Come Home, 02 – Somebody, 03 - New York City, 04 - Bad Girl, 05 - Music Man, 06 - Aiming For Love, 07 - Keep On Drivin', 08 – Shout, 09 - Life's What You Make It, 10 - Takin' You Out, 11 - Listen Up.
"Captain Black Beard have guts and glory written all over them. Their melodic vocals and guitars, make them stand out above the rest in the genre of AOR Rock". Bruce Kulick (Kiss) "Ill-mannered and charming hitseeking rock like it was made by KISS, Billy Idol and Pat Benatar - together and in their prime." Sweden Rock Magazine (rating 8/10)
WebLink: www.captainblackbeard.net.
xx
REBELLIOUS SPIRIT PREP SECOND ALBUM: Rebellious Spirit will release a new studio album in September 2014. Support slot on the second leg of the Axel Rudi Pell European Tour also confirmed.
The german Hard Rock newcomer Rebellious Spirit will enter the studio in May/June to record their new studio album. It will be released in September 2014 directly for the start of the second part of the Axel Rudi Pell Tour, where Rebellious Spirit will be the special guest again. Stay tuned for more info about the new album. On the first part of the Axel Rudi Pell-Tour in February the four young hopefuls got great reactions which you can see in a video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWK1HbhrM_Y.
Rebellious Spirit live 2014:
19.04. CH-Uster - Star Club
26.04. D-Villingen-Schwenningen - K3
14.06. D-Schmittweiler - Rock am Bunker
04.07. D-Euro Run 2014 - Gremium MC World
06.09. D-Gruol - Motorradtreffen
02.10. D-Metzingen - Stadthalle
Rebellious Spirit as special guest on the Axel Rudi Pell-Tour:
"Into The Storm"-Tour 2014 Part 2 Axel Rudi Pell special guests: Rebellious Spirit
19.09. CH-Pratteln - Z7
20.09. NL-Zoetermeer - Boerderij
21.09. D-Cologne - Essigfabrik
23.09. D-Aschaffenburg - Colos-Saal
24.09. D-Munich - Backstage
26.09. A-Vienna - Szene
27.09. CZ-Zlin - Masters of Rock Cafe
28.09. CZ-Prague - Matrix Music Club
30.09. D-Berlin - Huxleys
01.10. D-Bremen - Aladin
03.10. D-Karlsruhe - Substage
04.10. B-Vooselaar - Biebob
05.10. D-Bochum - Zeche
Ticket-Hotline Germany: METALTIX +49-(0)4627/183838, www.metaltix.de Touragency: Continental Concerts
WebLinks: www.rebelliousspirit.de / www.spv.de.
NEW FROM INTHESTUDIO: THE STORIES BEHIND HISTORY'S GREATEST ROCK BANDS:
Dallas, TX - April 8, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the 40th anniversary of Lynyrd Skynyrd's career-breaking 1974 classic Second Helping.
Lynyrd Skynyrd was a welcome dose of danger in a musical scene gone soft by the early '70s. The Lynyrd Skynyrd legend inevitably circles back to their first album Pronounced and the epic "Free Bird", but the April 1974 follow-up Second Helping is the incredibly strong album which busted the band wide open, producing the rebel singalong Top 10 hit "Sweet Home Alabama" and a stack of southern rock classics including "Don't Ask Me No Questions", "Workin' for MCA", "The Needle and the Spoon", their definitive version of the late J.J. Cale's "Call Me the Breeze", and two songs unlike anything on the first album, "The Ballad of Curtis Loew" and the achingly bluesy "I Need You".
Original guitarists Gary Rossington and Ed King tell the story of the Jacksonville, Florida "band of brothers" with nothing but dreams, making it big and spreading the love of Southern Rock across to the globe. Gary Rossington sums up, to InTheStudio host Redbeard, what Rossington believes was the secret to Lynyrd Skynyrd's musical identity. "In those days it was the Alice Coopers and Kisses and all the make-up. That's who was making it. We were kinda REAL. We wore blue jeans and T-shirts. Our music was our gimmick."
This program also contains Skynyrd bassist the late Leon Wilkeson's final national radio interview. Lynyrd Skynyrd 'Second Helping' /InTheStudio interview is available now to Stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/lynyrd-skynyrd-second-helping-40th-anniversary-gary-rossingtoned-king.
(Dallas, TX) - InTheStudio.NET, the web home for North American syndicated rock radio show InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the 40th anniversary of Aerosmith's second album Get Your Wings. New England quintet Aerosmith hatched in January 1973 with their self-titled album, but it wouldn't be until the release of their sophomore effort Get Your Wings in Spring 1974 that Aerosmith would take off by defining the sound that would soon become America's premiere hard rock band.
For Get Your Wings, Aerosmith enlisted the talents of producer Jack Douglas, whose crystal clear production provided a much needed boost sonically, as proof on the Aerosmith classics "Same Old Song and Dance", "Lord of the Thighs", "S.O.S. (Too Bad)", "Seasons of Wither", "Pandora's Box" and the all important matrix that gave New Yorker Steven Tyler common ground with New Hampshire boys Joe Perry and Tom Hamilton, The Yardbirds' "Train Kept A Rollin' ".
It is the solid bottom end provided by drummer Joey Kramer and bassist Tom Hamilton with Joe Perry's stiletto guitar licks a top the weaving three dimensional rhythm guitar play of Brad Whitford that makes Aerosmith's instrumentation so alluring. Steven Tyler's distinctive voice seduces the ears of listeners, and together the band would explode a mere album later with Toys In The Attic.
Joey Kramer tells InTheStudio host Redbeard how the hard work put into the band in those early years has been the reason Aerosmith's sound remains timeless today. "An album like this (Get Your Wings) is what it is because of how it was made, and the amount of time that was spent on those songs and recording this record is the reason … why it will stand up ten years from now."
Stream the complete Aerosmith program as part of InTheStudio's Medium Rare "online-only" rockumentary series www.inthestudio.net/online-only-interviews/aerosmith-get-wings-40th-steven-tyler-joe-perry-tom-hamilton
Dallas, TX - April 1, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the 'Best of' KISS on the eve of their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. There are a flurry of new developments in the now forty year saga of KISS,including new catalog albums being released, a 40th anniversary tour starting this Summer, and finally the long-awaited induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Regardless of whether you think the frottage foursome are rock gods or demons doesn't change the fact that KISS have been, and continue to be, enormously successful. Selling over 100 million albums, KISS together with their music, make-up, and elaborate stage show pioneered a generation of outsized arena rock.
Unfortunately, KISS is not the first Hall of Fame inductee to weather controversy regarding personnel changes over a four decade career. Bassist/singer Gene Simmons speaks frankly to InTheStudio host Redbeard about the work ethos of KISS. "We never bought into the 'I want to get high and stoned and just get up on stage and do whatever the hell.'.. We're closer to an Olympic team. We take it deadly seriously. Being in KISS in not a birthright. It's a privilege."
Singer/guitarist Paul Stanley states: "God knows we make mistakes, but that's the beauty of KISS. We do things the way we see fit, and we live and die by the sword."
Gene and Paul discuss their earliest musical influences, the state of music today, and chronicle some important KISS career highlights in this hour long radio special. KISS 'Best of/ Rock Hall Induction' /InTheStudio interview is available now to Stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/kiss-best-of-rock-roll-hall-fame-paul-stanley-gene-simmons/
Tuesday, April 08, 2014
TIMO TOLKKI'S AVALON DEBUTS NEW VIDEO: Timo Tolkki's Avalon, the awesome Metal Opera masterminded by former Stratovarius member Timo Tolkki, premieres today the first official lyric video for their current single "Design The Century" on Finland's Radio Rock website frontpage: www.radiorock.fi and on Ruutu.fi: www.ruutu.fi/ohjelmat/timo-tolkkis-avalon-design-the-century-musiikkivideo.
The video was directed by Patric Ullaeus (Amaranthe, Within Temptation, Kamelot, In Flames, Europe etc.) and features current Nightwish singer Floor Jansen appearing on lead vocals. The song is also available from today as a digital single for download and streaming on all music platforms. Artwork is pictured below.
The anticipated sophomore release from Timo Tolkki's Avalon will be entitled "Angels Of The Apocalypse", and is slated for a May 16th release in Europe and May 19th release in North America through Frontiers Records. Besides Floor Jansen, the amazing cast of vocalists appearing this time includes Simone Simons (Epica), Fabio Lione (Rhapsody Of Fire), David DeFeis (Virgin Steele), Zachary Stevens (ex-Savatage, Circle II Circle), plus Elize Ryd (Amaranthe) who appears again after contributing to the first album and the stunning Chilean singer Caterina Nix, who is working on her debut album, which is also produced by Tolkki. As for the players on the album, Tolkki finally managed to reunite the legendary Stratovarius "Dreamspace" lineup, calling Antti Ikonen and Tuomo Lassila to play keyboards and drums respectively.
Once again the stunning artwork is provided by the French artist Stanis W. Decker and the first pressing of the physical edition will be available in a glossy Digipak. For further information please visit www.avalonopera.com.
xx
MORE SOUNDBYTES FOR MELODICROCK RECORDS MAY 19 RELEASES:
NEW FM VIDEO!:
New FM video for the song Cold Hearted from the EP Futurama...
DIO LIVE IN LONDON – HAMMERSMITH APOLLO 1993 - FIRST EVER VIDEO RELEASE:
New York, NY (April 7, 2014)- Eagle Rock Entertainment is proud to announce the May 13 release of Live In London: Hammersmith Apollo 1993 on DVD, SD Blu-ray and double CD formats, from the incomparable Dio [Pre-book Order Date April 18, MSRP $14.98 DVD, $19.98 SD Blu-ray, $17.98 2CD].
This is the first ever video release of this classic 1993 concert and includes anthems such as "Holy Diver," "Rainbow In The Dark," "Strange Highways," "Stand Up And Shout," "Man On The Silver Mountain," "Heaven And Hell," "We Rock," and more. Filmed at London's Hammersmith Apollo on December 12, 1993, this concert film captures the then newly-reformed Dio on the last night of their European tour in support of the Strange Highways album. The line-up of Ronnie James Dio (vocals), Vinny Appice (drums), Jeff Pilson (bass), Tracy G (guitar) and Scott Warren (keyboards) the band delivered a blistering performance of tracks from their new album, previous Dio classics and favorites from Ronnie's career with Black Sabbath and Rainbow. This powerful performance is presented in DTS Surround Sound, Dolby Digital 5.1, and Dolby Digital Stereo. In addition to this amazing concert, the AV formats offer a bonus Behind-The-Scenes feature entitled "Hangin' With The Band".
One of the most influential and celebrated vocalists / frontmen of hard rock and heavy metal, the late Ronnie James Dio's commanding vocals and mammoth stage presence has resonated with generations of fans. His sophisticated, classical vocalization mixed with imaginative, fantastical song themes was genre-defining, establishing him as one of music's most beloved icons. Live In London: Hammersmith Apollo masterfully captures him and his namesake band, Dio.
For a sneak peak at Live In London – Hammersmith Apollo, here's a video of "Mob Rules" - www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEFcFGJBQzA&list=UUp0uxdUViQ2LTAqRePby68g.
TRACK LISTING: 1) Stand Up And Shout 2) Strange Highways 3) Don't Talk To Strangers 4) Evilution 5) Pain 6) The Mob Rules 7) Children Of The Sea 8) Holy Diver 9) Heaven And Hell 10) Man On The Silver Mountain 11) Drum Solo 12) Heaven And Hell (reprise) 13) Jesus, Mary & The Holy Ghost 14) Hollywood Black 15) The Last In Line 16) Rainbow In The Dark 17) We Rock 18) Here's To You.
TRACK PREVIEWS FOR 7HY: 7 Hard Years (7HY) featuring multi-instrumentalist Alan Kelly (ex-Shy) and lead vocalist Shawn Pelata (Line Of Fire) present a sneak-preview of tracks from the upcoming album 'No Place In Heaven'. The album also features Roy Davis (Shy), Dave Martin (Marshall Law), and Martin Walls (After Hours) with all songs written by Alan Kelly. 'No Place In Heaven' is due in June on the newly formed Lynchburg Records label.
LINK: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSz1JnkMjG4.
THE DOUBLE STOP PODCAST TALKS TO BOB ST. JOHN:
Here is the latest episode of The Double Stop Podcast: thedoublestop.com/ep-9-bob-st-john-producer-extreme-duran-duran-collective-soul/
This week Brian chats with Producer Bob St. John. he says: "This one is really great for any fan of Extreme as he helped produce every one of their albums, and he goes into detail for all of them. For example, Waiting For The Punchline cost more that 3 Sides To Every Story! He also talks about working with Duran Duran and Collective Soul - a very cool interview."
I'm told there is also the mention os a visit to the studio by Steve Perry when Extreme were recording their last album.
EUROPE CAPTURED IN MADRID: MetalSymphony.com has uploaded photos of Europe's March 29, 2014 concert at Sant Jordi Club in Barcelona, Spain. Check them out at this location: www.metalsymphony.com/?p=17792#pg
Europe's setlist was as follows: Riches To Rags, Firebox, Superstitious, Scream Of Anger, Guitar solo/Girl From Lebanon, keyboard solo/No Stone Unturned, New Love In Town, Stormwind, Wasted Time, Demon Head, Carrie, Love Is Not The Enemy, drum solo, Let The Good Times Rock, The Beast, Dance The Night Away, Rock The Night, Last Look At Eden, The Final Countdown.
Monday, April 07, 2014
MelodicRockRecords is excited to announce the anticipated release of one of 2014's finest power pop/melodic rock releases, the debut album from Aussie act The Radio Sun. The band's debut album Wrong Things Right will be released worldwide May 19.
Australia's The Radio Sun have been very busy since they formed in 2012. With past members from the excellent Square One and some of Melbourne's best local musos, The Radio Sun are about catchy rocking songs with an emphasis on layered vocal harmonies somewhere in between Rick Springfield, Nelson, Firehouse and The Marvelous 3.
After locking in Paul Laine (solo, Danger Danger, Shugaazer) to mix the band's debut album in 2013, The Radio Sun impressed so much that Paul Laine asked the guys to be his backing band on his recent tour downunder. The Radio Sun will also do double duty at next year's MelodicRockFest 4 by again being a part of the Paul Laine band and then performing the very next day in their own showcase set. Things are definitely looking up for the boys from downunder with their debut album Wrong Things Right to be released through MelodicRockRecords May 19.
The album cover and CD package was crafted by the always awesome Swedish artist Monowasp. Pre-orders available this week...
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/theradiosun / www.melodicrockrecords.com.
"The Radio Sun debut album 'Wrong Things Right' has that 'feel good' sound with a focus on catchy choruses, big vocal harmonies and rokken guitars" ~ guitarist - Stevie Janevski.
Track listing: 01. Wrong Things Right 02. Don't Judge A Book By It's Cover 03. World's Crazy Now 04. No Ordinary Star 05. Let's Talk About Love 06. Julie 07. Do It Again 08. Take A Look Around 09. Summer Girl 10. Goodbye 11. Head Over Heels 12. Beginning Or The End.
GUITARIST KARL COCHRANE SUFFERS STROKE:
Guitarist Karl Cochrane (Joe Lynn Turner, Voodooland, Rated X) suffered a massive stroke this weekend, with an update just to hand: "Hello again everyone. I have a quick update on Karl's condition, and am happy to say I have good news. He has regained consciousness after being completely taken off the sedation and medically induced coma. He has been taken off the ventilator, and is breathing on his own. The left side of his body is completely normal, and he has full use of his left arm and leg.
He has some sensation and movement on the right side of his body (the side affected by the stroke). He is slightly moving his right leg, and squeezed someone's hand with his right hand when asked. This is huge, as it means the brain still has some control over that side of his body.
He responds to verbal commands, and said his name and "OK" at one point. The ability to speak, even if just slightly, is very important, as it indicates the language center of the brain, although damaged, partially survived.
He is aware of others in the room, and appears to know who we are specifically. He waved good bye to someone and reached out to pat someone on the hand when they were leaving. He shook my hand when I left for the day and made very specific eye contact with everyone in the room.
Keep your positive vibes coming, and thank you for the mountain of well wishes. It's truly amazing how loved Karl is."
Here's the original post from Karl's facebook page. Continute praying for karl's recovery folks!
"Hello Everyone. This is Chris, Karl's good friend and guitar roadie/tech for the past 15 years; you may also know me as the sweaty sound man at Far Cry shows. I want to start by saying how sorry I am for keeping you all in the dark for so long, with nothing but the rumor mill and second hand information to rely on. Please try to understand that the last 36 hours have been a nightmare I wouldn't wish on anyone. Trying to buffer the family from having to deal with this, keep his family, close friends and band mates in the loop, and feebly trying to maintain Karl's right to privacy during the first, nightmarish hours, when his very life was at stake, have been extremely difficult.
Here is what has happened. Yesterday morning, Karl collapsed at home, becoming unresponsive. He was taken by ambulance to a local hospital, where he was diagnosed as suffering from a stroke. That hospital emergency transported him to a bigger, better equipped hospital (keeping the name out for privacy sake). They performed more tests and scans, and determined that the left carotid artery, which feeds the entire left hemisphere of the brain, had become completely blocked.
He was taken to emergency surgery in an attempt to open up the blocked artery. The surgeons were amazing, and tried for several hours, but all attempts to open up the blocked artery failed. Therefore, Karl suffered a massive stroke to the left hemisphere of his brain. Believe me when I tell you, there was nothing that could have been done.
Why did this happen to a perfectly healthy guy? Apparently, what happened at some point in the recent past, is that the carotid artery became dissected from some kind of trauma/injury to the neck, that Karl may not have even noticed. That in turn caused a massive blood clot to form, which slammed shut the blood flow to the brain all at once. As tragic, unfair and unreal as it may seem, this was a horrible accident, that could have happened to anybody, including, tragically, Karl.
So,where does Karl's status stand now? This is a LARGE question mark right now. I don't want to get into specifics of his status out of respect for his privacy, and quite frankly, the huge unknowns in it. The next several days are key, and he currently is still in critical condition. His life is still hanging in the balance. I don't say that to scare you all. I say that to prepare for that as a possibility. The fact that he has survived 36 hours is a huge plus. If he makes it past the next 10 days, the long, laborious process of rehabilitation will begin. Again, there are a gigantic number of unknowns in what the next days will hold. It all depends on how much damage to the language, reasoning and understanding centers of the brain (where the stroke was centered) have been affected. The ability for him to move the right side of his body will be affected for sure; to what degree, no one can say right now.
As some of you have noticed, I have locked down Karl's wall to not allow any posting of any kind. I thought long and hard about doing this, because I completely and totally understand everyone's need to send their respects, and get together as a group to help get through this. However, my need to keep people informed, and make it easy for them to merely click on his Facebook page and see his status right at the top, without having scroll through pages of other posts, forced me to take this action. Believe me, I have read every single post on here, with the giant outpouring of emotion, grief, positive thoughts, and well wishes. Karl's mother and I have been lifted by the unbelievable number of posts, e-mails, text messages, and phone calls. WHEN (not if) Karl gets better, I will make sure he looks at all this, to see the stadium sized number of friends he truly has.
If you want to private message this account, so that when Karl is able, he'll be able to read your messages, feel free. Please do not be offended if you do not get a response from me. When this first happened, I spent 10 straight hours on Karl's and my cell phones, keeping dozens of people in the loop. I quickly discovered the utter futility of that, and have unfortunately, been forced to rely on social media, and Karl's web site to keep people informed. Also, hearing several dozen people break down into tears at hearing this horrible news is more than I can bear.
Believe me when I tell you, this is the most difficult news I've ever had to deliver. I woke up this morning praying that this was all a dream, and broke down when I realized it wasn't.
Karl is the strongest person I've ever known, and to quote him "if you knock me down, you better make sure I stay down, because if you don't, I'll keep getting up." Nothing is set in stone yet. Please keep him in your prayers and thoughts. He can use every ounce of positive mojo you possess. I will attempt to post regular updates on his condition as it changes. It will be both here, and on his web site, in the news feed."
YOUTUBE SPOT UPDATED FOR FRONTIERS:
Here is the latest promo spot from Frontiers Records:
H.E.A.T. READY TO TEAR DOWN THE WALLS IN THE UK:
To dovetail the April 14 release of their new album Tearing Down The Walls, Swedish rockers H.E.A.T have today announced they will play four UK concerts in May:
London's Garage Friday May 16
Newcastle's O2 Academy 2 Saturday May 17
Glasgow's Cathouse Sunday May 18
Manchester Academy 3 Monday May 19
Tickets for all four concerts are can be ordered from the official H.E.A.T website - www.heatsweden.com.
The follow-up H.E.A.T's 2012 critically acclaimed album Address The Nation, "Tearing Down The Walls" was recorded at Bohus Studios with Grammy-award winning producer Tobias Lindell. The first single to be taken from the new album is A Shot At Redemption. A new double A-side single "Tearing Down The Walls" / "Mannequin Show" will be released on Monday April 14 to coincide with the release of the new album.
Wednesday, April 02, 2014
MelodicRock Records is excited to finally announce the long awaited album release from cult melodic rock outfit Loud Lion.
Die Tough will be released worldwide May 19 and will feature the following tracklist: 01. Love Will Break Your Heart 02. Lion's Den 03. Lion Eyes 04. Die Tuff 05. Loud Lion Theme Song 06. Dawn Of The Dead 07. The Hills Have Eyes 08. Sunset Slip 09. None More Fast.
Loud Lion created a huge buzz several years back, but their album never appeared....until now! Loud Lion is the brain child of pop/rock icon Bleu who put together the project to pay homage to Mutt Lange and Def Leppard. The album includes 9 original songs "in the style of" classic Def Leppard and features Bleu along with Taylor Locke (Bleu's co-creator & main partner in LoudLion, most widely known as the lead guitarist for Rooney), Adam Ross (Rihanna's touring guitarist), Allison Robertson (The Donnas lead guitarist), Maclaine Diemer (Bang Camaro - keyboards, guitar), John Fields (uber producer), and Dylan Halacy (Bang Camaro - drums). All songs produced by Bleu.
Bleu comments on the Loud Lion CD: "Def Leppard hasn't put anything as good as Loud Lion out in at least a decade! If you like Pyromania and Hysteria (and f**k you if you don't) then you'll love this record - and that's not even taking into account the brain-liquidating shred-fests. An homage has never (ever) sounded so majestic!"
The tracks were fully remastered in LA by JK Northrup for release by MelodicRock Records. The release features a booklet featuring all new artwork, lyrics and graphics. Pre-orders will be available in the next week!
Due to circumstances beyond the control of MelodicRock Records, the Lillian Axe release has been delayed. We were informed last week that the USA release was delayed until May 27 and have no choice but to defer to their new date, but after some negotiation, we have received confirmation that the MRR/Cargo European release will happen exclusively ONE WEEK EARLIER - on May 19.
Pre-orders are already open for this title - which can be sampled in full via the One Night In The Temple page here:
Performed acoustically in an intimate setting housed in a Masonic Temple in the Bayou, with their most diehard fans, One Night in the Temple, features all their hits including, True Believer, Show A Little Love, Crucified, Misery Loves Company, Ghost of Winter, The Great Divide, Bow Your Head, Waters Rising and the crowd favorite Nobody Knows. Lillian Axe founder Steve Blaze reflects; "When I first had the idea of putting this show together, it was originally going to be a private 20 person show with acoustic guitars, vocals and no production, however, it took on a life of its own."
One Night in the Temple; will be released as 3 disc set (2CDs/1DVD and 2CDs/1Blu-Ray), housed in an elaborate Digipak. Filmed in high definition, the Blu-Ray and DVD will contain the acoustic performance, fan question and answer session, videos for the songs Caged In and Death Comes Tomorrow, live concert footage from their July 4, 2013 performance at the Paragon Casino and behind the scenes footage.
The MelodicRock Records European release will be the 2CD/1DVD version, with Region 0 NTSC formatting for the DVD disc. There are a LIMITED NUMBER of this title that will be available direct from MelodicRock.com.
MRR PRE-ORDER DEAL! 2CD/1DVD version (Region 0, NTSC DVD) $29.95 + FREE SHIPPING TO ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD ON ALL PRE-ORDERS!!
ORDERS SHIPPED OUT BY MAY 19
A number of MelodicRock Records/MRCD titles are approaching sell-out - so if anyone is interested in grabbing before they disappear forever, please check out www.melodicrockdirect.com ASAP to get your copy.
Andreas Novak - Novakation - JP + Bonus Track - 1 LEFT Guru - White - Special Edition w/3 Bonus Tracks - 5 LEFT Degreed - Life, Love, Loss - 6 LEFT MRCD4 - 5 LEFT!
Recent MRR title Ferreira - V has also been added to MRD - the copies available here are slowing selling through also. Don't miss out!
Go get 'em! www.melodicrockdirect.com.
xxxxxx
INTRODUCING A NEW SUPERSTAR PROJECT: Journey meets Rush? Interesting proposition that, but this line-up might just be able to pull that off. Introducing Underworld, a new project featuring none other than Kee Marcello: Guitars, vocals; Steve Augeri: Vocals; Virgil Donati: Drums; Svante Henryson: Bass, cello. You can hear 3 demos from the guys at their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/%C3%9CNDERW%C3%96RLD/227287890804289
LIZZY BORDEN WILL BRING 30TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW TO EUROPE AND THE UK: Lizzy Borden's 30 years of American metal tour will be trekking across Europe and the UK this Fall. The anniversary show features songs from each and every Lizzy Borden record to date, including classic songs like "Me against the World", "American Metal", "Master of Disguise" Plus songs the band has never performed live. "We are all very excited to bring our Anniversary show over and can't wait to celebrate with all of our friends/fans in Europe and the UK for this monumental milestone. See you all soon", Lizzy
Confirmed tour dates will be announced soon. For press, booking and upcoming tour dates, please see the official website at: www.lizzyborden.com or www.facebook.com/lizzybordenband.
GRAYSON MANOR IS BACK WITH A NEW E.P.: "RETURN TO THE MANOR":
Atlanta-based hard rock band Grayson Manor is back with a new 3 song EP titled "Return to the Manor". The project was produced, engineered, and mixed in Lawrenceville, GA at Black Paw Studios by its frontman, Brad Cox. It is currently available on iTunes (itun.es/i66b3qp) and Amazon MP3 (amzn.com/B00J37NACG); it will be on Spotify and other digital music services soon.
The music was inspired when Brad and longtime guitarist Pat Valley began writing some songs just to see where it would take them. As the direction and songs started to take shape, drummer Rodney Beaubouef (ex-Stuck Mojo, Dangerous New Machine) was called into the studio to lay down some tracks. After a few days of recording everyone agreed that Grayson Manor was back with a passion. With the mixes completed, Brad knew the project deserved some old-school-inspired artwork to complete the package. Pro skater and artist Don Hillsman II (DC Comics, Marvel Comics, Dark Horse Comics) was brought in to deliver the goods.
The EP is the first new material released by the band since "Children of the Manor", which debuted in Europe on Bad Reputation Records. The band has toured extensively with many acts including Josh Todd (Buckcherry), Dokken, Winger, Saliva and was named one of the top SXSW bands to keep an eye on. With the release of "Return to the Manor," Brad and Pat have already begun working on more material and are putting together a tour for 2014.
Track listing: 1. Shake Me 2. I'm Still Here 3. Bye Bye to Love. For more, check out www.GraysonManorMusic.com.
CORNERSTONE AUSTRIA RETURN TO DUTY:
After Cornerstone went on a break for the last few months, they started to write new material and recharge their batteries. Now, they are back again! On 03/27 they start their Austria-tour of 14 concerts, but more dates will be added in the schedule over time. In May, the band will play the Pop Overthrow Festival in Liverpool for the second time, which will take place in the legendary Cavern Club, where nobody less than the Beatles became famous – a big honour! By the way: new on board is the Finnish drummer Ari Tiihonen, – to put it into bass player Michael's words – "humanly as well as musically, he's a real enrichment for the band"… Come and see for yourself and check out the tour information on the bands website.
27.03. AT- Graz, Flann O'Brien
28.03. AT- Vienna, Cafe Falk
04.04. AT- Amstetten, Cafeti
11.04. AT- Neunkirchen, Flavour Bar
19.04. AT- St.Veit/Goelsen, Highlander
26.04. AT- Hannersberg, Private Party
02.05. AT- Moedling, Turnverein
03.05. AT- Punitz, Rock in der Pohol
10.05. AT- Oberwart, Hopper
16.05. GB- Liverpool, Pop Overthrow Festival (Cavern Club)
17.05. GB- Liverpool, Pop Overthrow Festival (Cavern Pub)
23.05. AT- Vienna, Private Party
24.05. AT- Vienna, Saloon
07.06. AT- Kreuzstetten, 9er Bar
30.06. AT- Vienna, Donauinselfest
Website: www.cornerstone.co.at/content.php?id=17.
SITE UPDATES:
New Reviews added today for: Gotthard, L.R.S., Asia, Vanden Plas, Pretty Maids and Skin Trade. Read The Reviews.
MRX has been updated with the remaining songs from Billboard's Rock Top 40 charts for 1983 and 1990! Join MRX Now. All files must go soon to make room for new material.
Next site update MONDAY. Some family stuff to take care of for a couple of days. Thanks folks!
Tuesday, April 01, 2014
ICONIC ROCK VOCALIST SEBASTIAN BACH'S VIDEO "TEMPTATION" WORLDWIDE PREMIERE: Sebastian Bach fans can click here to check out the exclusive worldwide premiere of the video for "Temptation" on Loudwire. The sinful, hard-hitting video, directed by Patrick Fogarty (Black Veil Brides, Picture Me Broken, The Burning Of Rome), is the first from Bach's forthcoming studio album, Give 'Em Hell, and features quintessential rock bassist Duff McKagan on bass. Give 'Em Hell is due out in Europe on April 18 and on April 22 in North America via Frontiers Records. Fans who pre-order the album now from iTunes will receive instant gratification tracks of "Temptation" as well as "Hell Inside My Head."
Produced, mixed and recorded by Bob Marlette (Black Sabbath, Shinedown, Alice Cooper) and mastered by Tom Baker (Nine Inch Nails, Rob Zombie, Seether), Give 'Em Hell features writing and playing by very special friends and guest stars: Duff McKagan (Velvet Revolver, Guns N' Roses), John 5 (Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie) and Steve Stevens (Billy Idol). Rounding up the line-up on the album are Devin Bronson on guitars and Bobby Jarzombek on drums.
Sebastian Bach has sold in excess of 20 million records worldwide as lead singer with his former band, Skid Row and as a solo artist. Far from just being a multi-platinum recording artist, the singer/songwriter/actor/entertainer has expanded his career over the past decade to include episodic television with a 5-season recurring role on the CW's hit series "Gilmore Girls", starring roles on Broadway ("Jekyll & Hyde", "The Rocky Horror Picture Show") and national touring companies ("Jesus Christ Superstar"), and has appeared regularly on MTV and VH1.
Bach on the web: www.sebastianbach.com / www.facebook.com/sebastianbach / www.frontiers.it.
NEW FROM AOR HEAVEN IN MAY: AOR Heaven will release their two new released May 23. The details are as follows:
Outloud – Let's Get Serious / Outloud is back with a vengeance! The Greek kings of melodic hard rock featuring Bob Katsionis (Firewind) and American singer Chandler Mogel announce the release of their long-awaited third album Let's Get Serious, a blaze of melodic bliss once again mixed and mastered by the great Tommy Hansen and releasing this summer on the AOR Heaven label. Internationally, Outloud has sold over 8,000 CDs since its acclaimed debut released in 2009, and has become the most viewed Greek Hard Rock band on YouTube, with over 400,000+ views. Their song "We Run" appeared on a handful of reputable compilations and also was named 'Track of the Day' in Classic Rock Magazine in June, 2009.
The band has toured its home country multiple times, has appeared on national TV there and also on the cover for Greek Metal Hammer, the country's biggest rock publication. The album features 11 brand new songs, plus a cover of OMD's Enola Gay - "Outloud" style! Also featured is very special guest George Kollias (Nile) who played all the drums on the album, and a special appearance by guitar god Mike Orlando (Adrenaline Mob) on probably what could be called the heaviest Outloud track to date, Toy Soldiers. Stay tuned for more info and look for Let's Get Serious on May 23rd, 2014 at a store / on a computer near you!
WebLink: www.facebook.com/outloudtheband
Tracklist: 1. Death Rock!, 2. I Was So Blind, 3. One More Time, 4. Bury The Knife, 5. Like A Dream, 6. It Really Doesn't Matter, 7. A While To Go, 8. All In Vain, 9. Another Kind of Angel, 10. Let's Get Serious, 11. Toy Soldiers, 12. Enola Gay.
Line-up: Chandler Mogel – Vocals, Bob Katsionis - Guitars, Keyboards, Sverd – Bass, Kostas Milonas – Drums, Jim Scordilis - Guitar.
Special Guest: George Kollias (Nile) - all drums on album; Special Guest: Mike Orlando (Adrenaline Mob) - guitar solo on "Toy Soldiers".
Mother Road - Drive (Road Songs/AOR Heaven / Mother Road is the brainchild of Austin, TX (USA) based rock singer Keith Slack and Berlin (Germany) based guitarist Chris Lyne. Named after "The Mother Road", another name for the US' legendary, historic Route 66 highway, this international Hard Blues Rock band is impressively transferring the vintage sounds and the trademarks of this genre into the new decade. Founded in 2011 and based on mutual musical influences, Slack & Lyne promptly felt the chemistry between them was right and the song-writing process soon accelerated. In the meantime, the line-up was completed with keyboard player Alessandro Del Vecchio, drummer Zacky Tsoukas and bassist Frank Binke.
Guitarist Chris Lyne is well known for his astonishing work with his previous group Soul Doctor. His main influences include some of the greatest British guitar players such as Gary Moore, Jimmy Page, Paul Kossoff and John Sykes. American singer Keith Slack acted as frontman of the bands Steelhouse Lane and Michael Schenker Group (MSG), and also his own blues-influenced Hard Rock band Mudpie. Slack's influences include a whole variety of styles and music from bands including Paul Rodgers, Led Zeppelin, The Black Crowes, King's X and The Cult.
"Drive" is the band's first full-length album and will be released on the group's very own Road Songs label with the distributor AOR Heaven.
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/themotherroad / www.motherroad-band.com
Line-up: Keith Slack – vocals, Chris Lyne – guitars, Zacky Tsoukas – drums, Frank Binke – bass, Alessandro Del Vecchio – hammond & piano.
Track list: 1. The Sun Will Shine Again, 2. Feather In Your Hat, 3. Drive Me Crazy, 4. Out Of My Mind, 5. These Shoes, 6. Dangerous Highway, 7. Poor Boy (Long Way Out), 8. Dirty Little Secret, 9. Blue Eyes, 10. Still Rainin, 11.On My Way.
THE SUMMIT REACH HIGHER GROUND:
Today The Summit is revealing the cover and track listing for their upcoming album Higher Ground. The album was produced by the bands drummer Bjorn "B" Hoglund and is released in Sweden through Rambo/Gain on May 16. The first single "One Way Highway" is released on May 14. Tracklisting: 1. Turn It Off 2. W.O.W 3. One Way Highway 4. Circle The Sun 5. The Calling 6. Only Human 7. Water To Wine 8. Not My Country 9. The Higher Ground 10. All Die Young.
The Summit is a collaboration between old friends, all seasoned musicians in their own right with bands like 220 Volt, Easy Action and Marmalade Souls. Their debut album "Higher Ground" is a nod to the members own musical influences from their 70:s childhood. Written and recorded quickly, in a true 70:s style, without pulling any punches. Björn Höglund (drums) : "The result is a loving tribute to our heroes, while creating something - in our opinion - new and fresh. We are not ripping anyone off, but you can surely feel the presence of some of our favorite bands throughout the album. The idea was to work quickly, like many of them did. I mean, some of our favorite classic rock albums from that time only took a couple of weeks to record! I wanted The Summit to fit the same idea. Creatively and musically."
About one month ago the band released a video to the albums opening track "Turn It Off": youtu.be/l7WB29ZDze8.
WebLinks: www.jointhesummit.com / www.facebook.com/jointhesummit.
Line-Up: Michael Klemmé; vocals and guitar; Mats Karlsson; guitar and vocals; Björn Höglund; drums; Lars Ericsson; bass.
ROYAL HUNT OZ DATES CANNED:
The Royal Hunt Australian tour was cancelled at the last minute yesterday after problems with the local promoter. This message came from the promoter:
"At the 11th hour a critical impasse culminated between the parties involved with the Royal Hunt tour. This irreconcilable impasse made the tour and the shows itself untenable, as such, the tour is cancelled. We are disappointed in light of these events all the while remaining steadfast in the fact that we did everything to try and make the tour happen. We advise all ticket holders to return their purchased tickets from the place of purchase for a full refund. Regards, Rockstar Productions."
DC Cooper was contacted for comment, but has not yet responded. He posted this video massage via Facebook.
RUBICON CROSS TO RELEASE DEBUT SELF-TITLED RECORD ON INgrooves RECORDS ON MAY 19: Rubicon Cross, featuring award winning vocalist CJ Snare (from multi-Platinum selling, world renowned band, Firehouse) and guitar virtuoso Chris Green (of Pride/Furyon) will release its debut, self-titled, full-length record on May 19, 2014, on INgrooves. Now hailing from Chicago, CJ Snare and Chris Green first met while on tour in Europe when they shared the stage at a rock festival in Madrid. A close friendship was forged through sharing a decade of life experience that would ultimately serve as the creative nucleus for this project.
It was clear from their very first collaboration that the songs they were writing needed to be released separately from their other pursuits. Together they formed Rubicon Cross. With the addition of Pride/Furyon bassist Simon Farmery (who co-wrote, Save Me Withinť), Seventh Omen drummer Robert Behnke, and second guitarist Jeff Lerman, Rubicon Cross became a band of brothers, willing to tackle the music, the road, and bring life to these songs of fight, commitment, and connection.
The lush melodic core of the songwriting is given a forceful, aggressive boost on this record. From the first single, Bleed With Meť that starts just as propulsive as it ends to Kill Or Be Killed that has a relentless metal drive, Rubicon Cross is a collection of contemporary heavy music that sits just as comfortably next to hard rock classics as it does modern rock upstarts.
Locked and Loadedť is featured in the Xbox360 and PS3 game Dirt Showdown along side of new rock heavy-hitters Rise Against, Rival Sons and The Parlor Mob.
Check out the video for Bleed With Meť here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOHAtoSjBsE.
Check out the song here: soundcloud.com/rubicon-cross-official/bleed-with-me/s-b4fB0 / www.facebook.com/rubiconcross.
Track List: Locked And Loaded, Next Worse Enemy, Bleed With Me, Save Me Within, You Will Remember Me, Moving On, R U Angry, Shine, Kill Or Be Killed, All The Little Things.
Rubicon Cross was recorded at Black Dog Studios in Atlanta GA and Snare Bear Studios in Milwaukee WI, with Ken (Grand) Lanyon and C J engineering. The album was mixed and mastered by award-winning, Platinum-selling producer / engineer, Rick Beato. All songs were written by CJ Snare and Chris Green except Save Me Withinť which was penned by CJ Snare, Chris Green and Simon Farmery.
INgrooves is a leader in the independent music distribution and marketing industry. INgrooves distributes digital and physical music content to hundreds of online, mobile and physical retail stores worldwide. Independent labels, management and artists seeking worldwide distribution, administration and marketing services rely on INgrooves to maximize their impact in the dynamic music marketplace. The Company's proprietary ONE Digital enterprise software platform facilitates real-time asset management, distribution, royalty payments, sales analytics and more for INgrooves label partners. For more information, visit INgrooves.com - INgrooves.com.
NEW BABYLON A.D. EP DUE FROM PERRIS:
Oakland, California—March 31, 2014—Babylon A.D. is back! After a long hiatus, the band has reunited with all original members. The band has just released a four song E.P. titled Lost Sessions/Fresno, CA 93. The new release includes the songs "While America Sleeps," "Love Blind," "Love is a Mystery," and a newly-mastered version of their #1 metal hit song, "Bang Go The Bells." The songs are all pure, hard-rocking metal bangers with infectious guitar riffs from Ron Freschi and Danny De La Rosa, killer vocals from frontman Derek Davis, and the steady backbone of of Robb Reid on bass and Jamey Pacheco on drums. These songs were lost until recently, when a demo tape titled Fresno 93 was found in an old memorabilia chest Derek has kept over the years. After a good listen, it was obvious the band had to get the songs to their dedicated fans as a collector's item and great piece of their history, playing, and songwriting work.
Formed in 1988, Babylon A.D. hail from the San Francisco Bay Area, CA. Original members vocalist/songwriter Derek Davis, guitarists and music writers Danny De La Rosa and Ron Freschi, Drummer Jamey Pacheco, and bassist Robb Reid were all in rival childhood bands. In 1989, Babylon A.D. caught the attention of Arista Records president and industry music mogul Clive Davis, who signed them at a live showcase in Los Angeles, thanks to their impressive three-song demo and a homemade video. Their self-titled debut album was released in 1990, and included their hard rock classic hits "Bang Go The Bells," "Hammer Swings Down," "Desperate," and "The Kid Goes Wild," which was the trailer song and promotional video for Orion Pictures' Robo Cop 2. The band scored three #1 songs at Metal Radio and reached gold on their first release. Their sophomore effort, Nothing Sacred (released in 1992), produced two more top ten metal rockers--"Bad Blood" and "So Savage the Heart." Constant touring throughout the early 1990s and several MTV videos made them one of hard rock fans' favorites.
After spending several years with Arista Records, the band signed with Apocalypse Records in 1999 and released Live In Your Face, a compilation of live tracks recorded in various cities throughout the United States. The band's next release, American Blitzkrieg, soon followed in 2002, and both CDs were well-received by critics and fans alike. In 2007, the band released Babylon A.D. In The Beginning on Apocalypse/Perris Records, a compilation of songs from the original demo tapes that secured them the recording contract with Arista Records. Over the last few years, the band has played select live shows, and the new CD release has the band primed and ready to once again dominate the hard rock scene!
The band has several dates booked across the USA in support of the new E.P., and will be playing the Firefest Rock Festival in Nottingham England on October 25, 2014. Get Babylon A.D.'s Lost Sessions/Fresno, CA 93 digital download on iTunes, Amazon, CDBaby, and other fine digital music retailers, or on CD exclusively at perrisrecords.com. For more information, visit www.babylonad.com / facebook.com/Babylonadband.
BIG NEWS FROM DANGER ZONE!:
The Italian band Danger Zone from Bologna, after the long awaited "Line Of Fire" (Avenue of Allies 2011) and their comeback album Undying (Avenue of Allies 2012) release a new single and video. During the recording studio sessions, along with the songs that made it on the Undying track list, Danger Zone had brought to new life Fire Fireť, a gem from the past produced and written by Jody Gray (their historical producer and vocal coach). The song, originally recorded by the Japanese EZO, has been a pivotal moment in Danger Zone recent live acts and now will be available as studio cut.
To mark a link between recent albums and the future work, Danger Zone today presents exclusively as digital download their powerful remake of Fire Fireť together with a great lyric video. And the news doesn't stop here! Danger Zone welcome bassist Matteo Minghetti, already a "member" of the band as live bass player and sound tech in some live dates . Roberto Galli, the official bass player of the band, has been forced to step back due to the increasing number of live musical projects. Roberto will remain within the Danger Zone family as studio recording musician and maybe we will see him on the stage again for few gigs with the band in the next future. See you soon for new live dates and updates from the studio.
Greetings to all rock and roll fans out there and Stand In Line Of Fire!
Music video by Eklipse Media. Thanx to: Varus drums, Ufip cymbals, G.Art guitars, Casale Bauer spa, Washburn guitars, Randall amps.
SPIDERS & SNAKES TO RELEASE NINTH STUDIO ALBUM AT APRIL 11TH BENEFIT IN LOS ANGELES:
Los Angeles, CA - Hollywood rockers Spiders & Snakes be releasing their 9th studio album worldwide on May 27th on the Sansei Records label. Entitled Year of the Snake, the album features guest appearances by Billy Sherwood (Yes, Circa), Angelo Moore (Fishbone), Rik Fox (Wasp, Steeler), Ryo Okumoto (Phil Collins, Aretha Franklin, Spock's Beard), Betsy Weiss (Bitch) amongst others.
Year of The Snake is the first Spiders & Snakes studio album release since 2008's Melodrama on the Corporate Punishment label (distributed by E1 Entertainment) and features all four band members sharing lead vocal and song-writing duties. The multiple lead vocalists lends the disc a depth that separates it stylistically from previous efforts, which mainly featured Spiders & Snakes co-founder Lizzie Grey on lead vocals. The new album was recorded in the Chinese calendar "Year of The Snake" (2013-2014) at Steady Studios in Burbank, California with engineer Gavin Ross at the helm - just short of the band's upcoming 25 year anniversary.
Founded in 1990 from the ashes of Grey's previous outfit – the notorious London, which famously spawned the careers of Nikki Sixx (Motley Crue), Izzy Stradlin, Stephen Adler, Slash (Guns N' Roses), Blackie Lawless (W.A.S.P.), Fred Coury (Cinderella) and Nigel Benjamin (Mott The Hoople) – Spiders & Snakes immediately made their presence felt in their hometown of Hollywood by selling out venues on the Sunset Strip and the west coast with their Sweet meets T. Rex meets Mott The Hoople musical influences and over-the-top stage shows with special effects, costumes and scantily-clad female dancers.
Spiders & Snakes' 1991 debut EP Arachnomania (released thru Red/Sony Distribution) charted in Japan and the U.K. on the import charts and the band never stopped, releasing Arachno II (1992), 2000 Retro (1993), Oddities: The Glitter Years (1995), Astro Pop (1997), London Daze (2000), Hollywood Ghosts (2005) and Melodrama (2008). During the rollercoaster ride of record deals that saw their catalog released by such labels as Rkd/RED, Rafr/Flipside, Cleopatra Records and Corporal Punishment Records- the band continued to tour and release music videos (two which aired on MTV in the 90s) and appear in B Films like 'Vamps in the City" (MVD) and documentary films like 'Hollywood Rocks' (Cleopatra Films). Most recently, Spiders & Snakes have been featured in the opening segment of the hit reality show "Ex-Wives of Rock" (Fuse TV).
Says Lizzie Grey – who co-founded the band with drummer and vocalist Tim Yasui – "we're simply not has-beens since we never officially became mainstream". Continues Grey "I realized that if you stick around long enough you eventually become somewhat relevant again"
"Year of The Snake" will be released on Digital Download, CD and Vinyl formats and a 25th Anniversary tour is in the works. Spiders & Snakes will be appearing live at Paladinos, 6101 Reseda Blvd., Tarzana, CA on Friday, April 11th, 2014 for the annual "Rockers Against Trafficking" benefit featuring performances by Helmet, Dave Lombardo of Slayer, Robert DeLeo from Stone Temple Pilots and members of W.A.S.P., Quiet Riot and many more.
Spiders & Snakes "Year Of The Snake" Track listing: 1. Don't Step Outta Line (feat. Angelo Moore from Fishbone) 2. Crazy 3. Too Angry (feat. Angelo Moore from Fishbone) 4. Kawasaki City (feat. Ryo Okumoto from Spock's Beard, Betsy Weiss/Bitch) 5. Neutron Baby 6. Drive Me Crazy 7. Over & Over Again 8. Hey You 9. Hello 10. Ain't Gonna Eat Out My Heart Anymore (feat. Rik Fox from W.A.S.P./Steeler, Betsy Weiss/Bitch) 11. Digital Church (feat. Billy Sherwood from Yes/Circa).
Listen to the first single "Too Angry" soundcloud.com/sansei-records/spiders-snakes-too-angry.
JOEL HOEKSTRA INTERVIEWED:
Now online - a new conversation with TSO East, Night Ranger & Rock of Ages guitarist, Joel Hoekstra.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra guitarist Chris Caffery introduces his six-string teammate, Joel Hoekstra, as the "hardest working musician in rock and roll." Not only is Hoekstra hard working, his work spans a variety of styles from the melodic hard rock of Night Ranger; acoustic and fusion themed solo records; multifaceted stylings of hard-rock/metal/prog/acoustic in TSO; '80s guitar shredder in Broadway's Rock of Ages; and more free form psychedelic as on his latest project, VHF. In a recent guest guitarist appearance on VH1's That Metal Show, Hoekstra highlighted his ability through a myriad of sounds and diverse licks.
In 2010 he joined TSO on the east coast for their annual Winter Tour and has been spending each holiday season since on the pyro-filled flight deck. His million-dollar smile radiates from the stage both his love of the instrument and performing.
During the 2013 Winter Tour we spoke at length about who inspired him to pick up a guitar, his musical upbringing, how his hard work paid off when opportunities arose, his warm-up routine, Night Ranger and Rock of Ages, writing and recording on the road, finding joy within the moment, as well as what he still hopes to accomplish. We also dug in deep on TSO including how it mirrors his life and outlook, his array of guitars, studio work, changes to the 2013 show, favorite moments, the fans, getting nervous, overcoming a fear of heights, and how he didn't think he passed his original audition.
WebLink: squintyt4e.livejournal.com/47566.html.
WILKO JOHNSON & ROGER DALTREY 'GOING BACK HOME': Wilko Johnson, legendary guitarist with Canvey Island rock pioneers Dr Feelgood, and Roger Daltrey, lead singer of rock giants The Who, are set to release the joint album Going Back Home on April 8, 2014, on the world-famous Chess Records label which was resurrected specifically for this record coming out through Universal Music Enterprises (UMe).
Recorded in November of last year, Going Back Home is the first release on the newly re-launched Chess Records, featuring 11 tracks, ten of which are Johnson originals from both his Dr Feelgood days and solo years, plus his version of "Can You Please Crawl Out Your Window," an outtake from Bob Dylan's classic album Highway 61 Revisited.
The album's roots began in 2010 when Roger Daltrey and Wilko Johnson found themselves sitting together at an awards ceremony talking about raucous old school British rhythm & blues. "It turned out we both loved Johnny Kidd & The Pirates," says Daltrey, name-checking the turn-of-'60s creators of "Shakin' All Over" and "Please Don't Touch." "They'd been a big influence on both our bands" Daltrey continues, "That heavy power trio sound, backing up a singer; it's a British institution. No-one does that better than us." They decided on the spot it would be a great idea to collaborate together on an album but both being busy men, the idea drifted away.
Then in January 2013 Johnson was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and told he had just months to live. The guitarist, riding high after Julien Temple's acclaimed Dr Feelgood documentary Oil City Confidential, seized upon the opportunity to make the most of his time left.
When The Who finished a sold-out world tour, Daltrey was delighted to discover that mercifully, Johnson was still well enough to fulfil their ambition of making an album together. "Roger jumped up and said, 'Let's do it,'" says Johnson. "He knew this lovely little studio called Yellow Fish in Uckfield. Unfortunate name for a place, but a great studio."
The album was recorded in a week using Johnson's touring band, Blockheads bassist Norman Watt-Roy and drummer Dylan Howe, with ex-Style Council and Dexys Midnight Runners' Mick Talbot on keyboards. Johnson also credits producer Dave Eringa for pulling it all together in such a short time. "Everyone got on famously," says Johnson. "It was a great atmosphere."
Going Back Home features re-makes of classic Wilko Johnson tracks including the Feelgoods' "All Through The City," "Keep It Out Of Sight" and "Going Back Home" – the latter being co-written in 1975 with Johnny Kidd & The Pirates' guitarist Mick Green – plus "Everybody's Carrying A Gun," originally recorded by his post-Feelgoods group The Solid Senders, and the solo '80s rockers "Ice On The Motorway" and "I To Keep It To Myself." Also included is the hidden gem "Turned 21," a heart-wrenching ballad that has never been properly released or performed live.
For Wilko Johnson, who has faced down his cancer with admirable good humor and steely courage, Going Back Home represents a dream fulfilled at the end of his life. "I've had a brilliant year," says Johnson. "I was meant to die in October and now I've recorded this with Roger. I can't keep gushing," he continues, "but I saw The Who in 1969 when I was at university. He's a star to me." "I'm very proud of this album," adds Daltrey who is donating his royalties from the album to a Teen Cancer charity. "So much music today is over polished. This record has a freshness that can only come from the pressures we're under." "You mean me dying?" Johnson laughs. "Yes," says Daltrey. "Because of that inconsiderate lump inside you. Who the hell does it think it is?!"
Wilko Johnson and Roger Daltrey will be performing tracks from Going Back Home at a very special, one-off show at The O2 Shepherds Bush Empire in London on February 25.
WebLink: www.wilkojohnson.org.
Monday, March 31, 2014
ASIA " GRAVITAS" OUT NOW ON FRONTIERS RECORDS: Asia, the legendary British rock band, is experiencing some of the best critical and fan acclaim of their career since its heyday of the early 1980s thanks to their new album Gravitas. The consensus is the same: this is unquestionably one of the finest albums in the band's 30+ year career. The new CD released March 25th in North America on Frontiers Records has been embraced by international media outlets such as Reuters, Yahoo News, Huffington Post, and USA Today. The album had a Top 20 debut on the Mediabase Classic Rock Chart and has since climbed into the Top 10, sitting at #7. It marks one of the strongest radio responses to an Asia album since the first two albums were released in the early 1980s. In addition to extensive media coverage, the band is preparing to chat with its fans in a special Reddit Event, being planned for the third week in April.
Gravitas reached #11 on the iTunes US Top Rock Albums upon release on March 25th. The CD/DVD version is at #35 on the Amazon US overall music chart, #18 on the Rock chart and #35 on the Pop chart. It was consistently in the Top 100 for the last few weeks while available for pre-order. At Amazon Canada, it is in the Top 100. Internationally it comes in at #12 on Amazon France's MP3 Rock Albums chart and is the #1 Hard Rock & Metal release on Amazon Italy. In addition it is #1 in Amazon UK's MP3 Progressive Albums chart and #17 on Amazon Germany's MP3 Rock Albums chart. It entered Japan's charts at #27. And the momentum is just starting to build. Featuring a deeply introspective musical style within a clearly accessible sound, Gravitas introduces the world to Asia's new guitarist, Sam Coulson, who came at the recommendation of Mr. Big's Paul Gilbert.
In addition to the North American release this week, the record was released in Japan on March 5th, and Europe on March 21st. It is available in two configurations: a standard CD and a Deluxe Edition, that includes two bonus tracks and a DVD containing the "Valkyrie" music video, a promotional film, and footage of classic live ASIA tracks recorded with the Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra in Bulgaria. Asia's debut album exploded onto the music scene in April,1982, and was the best selling album in the world of that year. Featuring Geoff Downes on keyboards; Steve Howe on guitar; Carl Palmer on drums; and John Wetton on lead vocal and bass; Asia was the logical successor to their collective bands of the 70s - Yes, ELP, King Crimson, UK, and The Buggles. The original ASIA reformed in 2006 for the first time in 23 years.
"This time the dragon has awakened with a fresh direction and purpose," says John Wetton. Adds band mate Geoff Downes: "There is a renewed energy when we step on stage now; we can feel it and I know the fans can feel it."
Track listing: Valkyrie; Gravitas; The Closer I Get To You; Nyctophobia; Russian Dolls; Heaven Help Me Now; I Would Die For You: Joe Di Maggio's Glove; Till We Meet Again. The Closer I Get To You (Acoustic)*; Joe Di Maggio's Glove (Acoustic)* DVD (*): Valkyrie (videoclip), "EPK", "Heat of the Moment" (Live in Plovdiv with Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra); TBA (Live in Plovdiv with Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra); TBA (Live in Plovdiv with Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra).
*Available only on the Deluxe Edition
Uriah Heep will release a brand new studio album Outsider out in June on Frontiers!
DENNIS DEYOUNG RECORDS A NEW DVD AT THE EL REY IN LOS ANGELES:
On March 18th, 2014; Dennis DeYoung, the legendary front man of Styx and author of five key songs that define that band's career, returned to Los Angeles for the first time during his solo career to a sold out show at the El Rey Theater. Recorded live for AXS-TV and captured in pristine HD quality, the performance has been slated for release later in 2014 on a DVD and CD to feature Dennis DeYoung 'Performing the Music of Styx' via Frontiers Records.
Los Angeles FM radio giant 100.3 The Sound aided in show promotion with morning show host Uncle Joe Benson offering tickets to listeners in limited supply, just 20 seats available to winning entrants. In just a few short hours of the show's announcement, tickets sold out at an astounding fan appreciation price of just five dollars. With gratitude to fans that have supported DeYoung over the years, the show was truly a gift of thanks to long-time fans that haven't seen him perform outside of Styx in Los Angeles, ever.
With doors opening at 8:00 pm, fans lined the sidewalk starting in the 6 o'clock hour on Wilshire Boulevard with tickets in hand and the buzz was about what songs the band might perform. Photos and reviews of the previous show in Joliet, IL had revealed guitarist August Zadra taking the vocal lead on select songs and fans shared the amazing sound of the band being so close to the record it was guaranteed hit all the right chords with lifelong fans! Still, what patrons would get tonight was an absolute surprise.
The amazing stage set was designed by DeYoung's son and through the black backdrop shone multiple gemlike circles that glowed from one side of the stage to the other like a blanket of stars with the colors of the rainbow. Neon-like spots aimed both high and low rained down an array of light that swept over the audience. Packed from the front of the stage to the back of the house, the inside of the El Rey seemed more like a night at the Forum in 1985; just bigger than life and ready for broadcast.
Opening the show with "The Grand Illusion," the band performed for an hour and a half, and had DeYoung interacting with the crowd. On two occasions he was handed items that from the audience that he shared with fans. One was a copy of the Styx "Paradise Theater" album, on vinyl, and another was a fan-made sign requesting a personal song favorite – "Desert Moon."
The set list for the night was as follows: 1. Grand Illusion 2. Lady 3. Lorelei 4. Blue Collar Man 5. Show Me The Way 6. Mr. Roboto 7. Crystal Ball 8. Don't Let It End 9. Too Much Time On My hands 10. Rockin' The Paradise 11. Desert Moon 12. Babe 13. Fooling Yourself 14. Prelude 12 15. Suite Madame Blue 16. Best Of Times 17. Renegade 18. Come Sail Away.
Among attending fans was legendary hard rock vocalist and songwriter Jeff Scott Soto, who shared with us his excitement of the experience. "I've been a fan Dennis since the first time I heard him sing and for I'm actually going to get answers to questions I've wanted to ask him for years," Jeff said, "for instance – exactly what is the opening lyric on the song I'm Okay about?"
Dennis and the members of the band took well over an hour of personal time upstairs at a VIP meet and greet with fans and Los Angeles based friends who attended the gala. AXS-TV brought in a 25+ foot boom arm and 8 cameras to capture the magic of the show and the house production offered simply the most crisp and well perfected tone the band could create for a night that fans are going to cherish on DVD for the "REST of Times." ~ Joe Dolan
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DAVID SAYLOR GETS STRONGER IN MAY: David Saylor (Push UK, Wild Rose) is back! And he's brought with him his best and most accomplished album yet! Following on from last year's Kiss of Judas EP (now sold out) Saylor returns with "Strength of One", a collection of eleven AOR/melodic rock gems which again showcases his awesome voice, production skills and song writing talent. The step up in quality from his last offering is obvious from the opening guitar riffs of "Welcome to the Show" – Saylor means business as he welcomes listeners into his AOR paradise!
In terms of song writing Saylor has again upped the ante! Compelling lyrics, catchy melodies and choruses that listeners will be humming throughout 2014! This album is packed with this! One noticeable aspect is the use of guitars. Beautiful, tasteful solos wrap around almost every song. One play and listeners will be transported back to 1986/87. Guitars come courtesy of six string wizards Brett Hammond, David Mark Pearce and in particular Nik Lloyd. Where have these guys been all our lives? The solos, riffing and general sonic textures sit perfectly on every song be they
up tempo or ballads, hard and heavy or soft and light! These guys are up to the task and whatever the requirement lay it down perfectly.
And then there is Saylor's voice. Bringing a Terry Brock style rasp to all tracks on offer it sores up there with the angels. It just keeps getting better. Filled with emotion it conveys the pain and the sadness of lost love on some tracks whilst on others celebrates the joy of living life to the max. Yes – I can tell when this man is in pain or smiling purely through his voice! A genius!
Accompanying Saylor in the studio aside from Brett, Nik and David are Romany May, Cristian Antonio, Suzi Ashby, Rob Hewins and Georgia Florence of backing vocals, Paul Pryor on bass and from The Val: Gabrielle De Val Koenzen (guest vocals) and Alfonso Samos (guitar).
Strength of One (AOR Boulevard Records) will be released in May 2014 with a strictly limited pressing of 1000 copies. Like its immediate predecessor is it sure to sell out and become a collector's piece. NB – a strictly limited number of copies of David Saylor – City of Angels and Push UK – Strange World are available from AOR Boulevard Records.
CD Promo Clip - Listen Here: www.youtube.com/watch?v =mJYVa_lAklQ&feature=youtu.be.
MELODIC BRIEFS:
Listed on the website CharityBuzz, 4 tickets to attend the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony with 100% of the proceeds going to charity (FeedingAmerica $1= 9 meals). The auction also has a gift bag that includes music and video from Rock Hall Inductees and other special items like a Signed Copy of John Oates brand new compilation CD "Good Road To Follow" personally signed by the artist and inductee: www.charitybuzz.com/catalog_items/516400.
Aussie pop/rock 80s icons Pseudo Echo have completed work on their first album in 20 years titled Ultraviolet. It's due out to Pledge donators this week and TBA for the general public.
Winger frontman, Kip Winger, goes One-On-One with Mitch Lafon (rock journalist) to discuss the band's latest effort, Better Days Comin'. The pair discusses the making of the album, the need to make albums in today's market place, working with Reb Beach, and the band's 2014 tour plans. Kip also talks about his days in Alice Cooper's band, the genius that is Bob Ezrin, the Beavis & Butthead/Metallica effect all these years later and his solo work. www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CobMDJKY4k
Hi everyone. Bobby Messano here and I'm at the beginning of my year long "My Life In Bags Tour 2014" and I'm starting a new PledgeMusic campaign at www.pledgemusic.com/projects/bobbymessano. I'm looking for some help with tour support and I've included some fantastic exclusives, many never seen before. I hope you can jump into one of the bags and come along on this exciting journey. Thanks and I'll see you at the shows!
www.focusonmetal.net have a new two hour episode where they talk to Kings X guitarist Ty Tabor and discuss the band's discography in chronological order with him.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS WITH ANETTE OLZON, MAGNUM, JOHN COUGHLAN (STATUS QUO) AND W.E.T.: Rich Davenport's Rock Show this week features exclusive interviews with former Nightwish vocalist Anette Olzon, Bob Catley (Magnum), John Coughlan (Status Quo) and Erik Martensson (W.E.T.), and is available now for streaming at this link: www.mixcloud.com/richdav1/rich-davenports-rock-show-anette-olzon-ex-nightwish-magnum-status-quo-wet-interviews/
In the first hour, John Coughlan of the legendary "Frantic Four" line up of Status Quo, talks about the band's current tour, and the new deluxe edition reissue of their seminal "Piledriver" album, with classic songs and rare live tracks from the new package. Also in part 1, former Nightwish vocalist Anette Olzon discusses the writing and recording of her debut solo release "Shine", and chooses two songs from the album.
In part two, Bob Catley of enduring British Hard Rockers Magnum talks about their chart-busting new album "Escape From The Shadow Garden", and related touring plans and festival appearances, with four songs from the new album. And finally, Erik Martensson (Eclipse), guitarist with Melodic Rock supergroup W.E.T. (also featuring vocalist Jeff Scott Soto (ex Journey, Talisman, Yngwie Malmsteen) talks about the band's new 2CD/DVD live package "One Live-In Stockholm" and chooses two cuts from the album, including one of the 2 unreleased studio songs included.
You can also listen on Sunday 30th March 15:00-17:00 GMT and Wednesday 2nd April 22:00-00.00 GMT on www.totalrock.com.
SITE UPDATES:
A new Showcase online today for Escape Music - Diesel (featuring Robert Hart & Jim Kirkpatrick)(out May 23). Check it out.
MRX has been updated once again witht eh first part of another Billboard Rock Top 40 year - this time it's 1990! Only a couple of years to go for the whole decade to be featured. Join Now.
Friday, March 28, 2014
2013 MELROCK AWARDS ONLINE NOW:
The 2013 MelRock Awards are online now! For anyone new to this - this is not a vote or a poll; this is my own personal take on the music and news that I covered on MelodicRock.com over the course of 2013. These are my favourite songs, my favourite albums and whatever else... In listing these artists and also handing out some awards, it is my hope as always that it will help remind folks of some music they missed or help them appreciate some of the artists behind the music for their efforts in 2013.
Enjoy the read and do let me know what you think!
DAVID HUNGATE RETURNS FOR SOME TOTO TOUR DATES:
More Toto news: "Original bass player David Hungate and hotshot Nashville drummer Shannon Forrest will be joining Toto for their August and September dates..."
FORMER WIGWAM FRONTMAN AGE STEN NILSEN (GLAM) TEAMS UP WITH NEW SOLO BAND: Age Sten Nilsen is picking up where his former band Wigwam left off. Penning new rock anthems with Erik Mĺrtensson (Eclipse/W.E.T) in Stockholm since October 2013, originally dedicated for the long awaited sixth studio album from Wigwam. When Wigwam surprisingly decided to call it a day after 13 years, Age Sten soon formed his own band, recording the new songs in the vein of the new band effort Age Sten Nilsen's Ammunition.
The new material wears the same catchiness as Wigwam, yet offers a rougher and more subtle sound and arrangements than his former band's latter productions. Produced by one of melodic rocks most esteemed producers Erik Mĺrtensson, Age Sten Nilsen's Ammuniton is now on the verge of finishing it's first album due for a release later this year.
With a dream team of rock musicians in the line-up Age Sten Nilsen's Ammunition has already debuted live, blasting through Wigwam gems blended with new unreleased songs from the forthcoming album and live favorites from Zeppelin and Queen.
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Age Sten Nilsen's Ammunition is: Ĺge Sten Nilsen - vocals (Wigwam / Nordic Beast); Hal Patino - bass (King Diamond/Pretty Maids/Nordic Beast); Robban Bäck - drums (Sabaton/Eclipse); Erik Mĺrtensson - guitars (W.E.T / Eclipse); Lasse Finbrĺthen - keyboards (Wigwam / Circus Maximus); Jon Pettersen - guitars (Ĺge's Queen show/Bad Habits). The band is already planning to head out on the road this summer.
GARY HUGHES REPORTS IN:
A new message from Gary Hughes on the new Ten album: "Hi Guys, Gary here with a quick studio update. We are well into the recording stages of the new album now and things are starting to come together very nicely. We are currently developing 22 new song ideas in order to select the best blend of songs for the new album and so there will be opportunities to use a variety of additional bonus material at some point in the future. It's hard to decide on the best selection until all the songs have reached the same stage of development. Very often we leave songs out, not because they don't make the grade, but because there is already another song of that particular 'like' chosen for the album. The new material carries all the hallmarks of the classic Ten sound but in addition it is more 'riff orientated' this time around. There are no track titles or album title confirmed as yet. We will announce them as they emerge. For now, what I can tell you is that it's all in pretty good shape and we fully intend to raise the bar several notches with this new album release. There will be new album and general band updates from this point on so watch this space. Take care and all the best, Gary."
ACE FREHLEY'S EPIC POST (EDITED):
A brief message here about the upcoming Ace Frehely record. I abandoned the rest of the press release, but you can attempt to read it here: www.facebook.com/mitch.lafon/posts/10152169854824193.
"Ace Frehley's new solo album, as yet untitled, is due for release in the spring of 2014 and promises to forge yet another exciting chapter in the life of one of rock's most influential and distinctive artists."Fans can expect something closer to my '78 solo record," Frehley reveals. "Over the past couple of months I've been listening to my old records and trying to find that formula that I've captured so many times in the past. I recently played some of my new music for a few people at my label and they were blown away. It reaffirmed in my mind that I'm on the right path and I think my fans are going to love the results. It's gonna be a great record."
U.D.O. STEELHAMMER - LIVE FROM MOSCOW TO BE RELEASED ON MAY 23:
Russia has a special meaning for Udo Dirkschneider and his band U.D.O.. They were one of the very first international artists to tour the huge country of Russia - and their fans are still very thankful until this day. So recording a Live DVD to highlight the Steelhammerť tour was an opportunity the band didn't want to miss. It is the first Live release of U.D.O.'s new line-up (with Russian band member) which easily convinced fans and critics alike on recent festivals and headlining gigs.
The band comes up with an exceptional setlist, incl. many classics that haven't been played for a long time, fan favorites and tracks from the recent success album 'Steelhammer'ť. U.D.O. once again prove why they are hailed as one of the best European live bands. 'Steelhammer - Live From Moscow' will be available as DVD/2-CD, Bluray/2-CD and triple-Vinyl in Russian national colors (tricolor).
Disc 1: 1 Intro 2 Steelhammer 3 King of Mean 4 Future Land 5 Cry of a Nation 6 Trip to Nowhere 7 They Want War 8 Never Cross My Way 9 Stranger 10 Stay True 11 In the Darkness 12 Azrael.
Disc 2: 1 No Limits 2 Mean Machine 3 Burning Heat 4 Metal Machine 5 Devil's Bite 6 Go Back to Hell 7 Timebomb 8 Holy 9 Metal Heart.
Thursday, March 27, 2014
WINGER DRIVING NEW VIDEO TO FANS:
The leading UK music monthly magazine Classic Rock has exclusively premiered online today Winger's new video "Midnight Driver of a Love Machine" via this link www.classicrockmagazine.com/music_and_videos/winger-midnight-driver-of-a-love-machine.
The clip portrays the band on a live stage performing the opening track of their forthcoming album "Better Days Comin'", to be released on April 18th in Europe and April 22nd in North America. Fans who preorder the album now from iTunes will receive instant downloads of "Rat Race" (the first single) and of the album's title track.
"Better Days Comin'" is an amazing new record where the four band members: Kip Winger (ex-Alice Cooper), Reb Beach (Whitesnake), Rod Morgenstein (Dixie Dregs, Steve Morse, The Jelly Jam, Rudess/Morgenstein Project) and John Roth (Starship, Giant) shine with an incredible instrumental and vocal prowess at the service of superb Hard Rock songs but with an uncanny sense of melody.
Look out for Winger tour dates in the spring and summer in support of the new album!
STEPHEN PEARCY SISTER PASSES AWAY: Ratt issued this sad news update earlier today: "We are deeply saddened to report that Stephen Pearcy's sister has passed away. Due to this sudden and unexpected news, Ratt will not be performing on the Monsters of Rock Cruise. We would like to thank all our loyal fans for their continued support and understanding. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Stephen and his family. We ask that you kindly respect Stephen's privacy during this difficult time."
MelodicRock.com sends our personal condolences to Stephen and his family at this time.
TOTO & MICHAEL McDONALD USA DATES ANNOUNCED: Toto & Michael McDonald are hitting the road this August on a co-headlining tour! Tickets begin to go on sale this week, and VIP Packages are available for many dates starting today! For more information, visit: totoofficial.com/events. VIP Packages include great seats, meet & greet/photo op with Toto, pre-show soundcheck, Q&A, and more. Many dates have VIP Packages available NOW – more coming soon.
MORE RICK SPRINGFIELD FOR ROCK CANDY:
Cool news from Rock Candy Records for Rick Springfield fans - Coming April 21 are Rock Candy's brand new remasters of Working Class Dog and Rock Of Life. While there are no unheard bonus tracks on offer, it will be nice to see some bonus tracks added: Rock Of Life: Language Of Love and Rock Of Life (Extended Remix); Working Class Dog - Easy To Cry, Taxi Dancing (Duet) and Jessie's Girl (Demo).
Also due next month from Rock Candy are Lynch Mob Wicked Sensation and Georgia Satellites 'S/T' (with Seven Bonus Tracks).
MARK SLAUGHTER TALKS TO MITCH LAFON: Slaughter's Mark Slaughter checked in with Mitch Lafon (rock journalist) to discuss his first ever solo single, Never Givin' Up (available on iTunes, GooglePlay, Amazon and more). www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wtse6h8A1M8. The single comes in aid of the Red Circle Foundation - www.redcirclefoundation.org.
Mark also went on to describe his guitar work on the 'A World With Heroes' (Kiss tribute album - available on iTunes) as well as his upcoming recording plans, his 2014 touring plans with Slaughter, remembering guitarist Tim Kelly and, of course, the conversation bled into the Vinnie Vincent Invasion & working with Vinnie. Mark also answers the million dollar question - 'Did Vinnie save Kiss?' For more about Mark visit his Official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/officialmarkslaughter.
The Red Circle Foundation (www.redcirclefoundation.org) stated mission is: "The Red Circle Foundation (RCF) was established in 2012. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and most large charitable organizations provide great services but often move very slowly, that's where RCF has carved out its niche. Our mission is to serve as a quick reaction non-profit by providing immediate gap funding assistance for Special Operations families in need. Typical assistance includes medical, memorial, and household expenses. Our second area of focus is on education and enrichment programs for children of the Special Operations community. We believe that a strong family unit is paramount in maintaining the mental and physical strength that US Special Operations Forces need to carry out their missions overseas."
NEW STEVE AUGERI SINGLE OUT NOW: Journey former Lead Vocalist Steve Augeri releases his brand new single, "Tin Soldier" with co-writers Fredrik Bergh and Tom DeRossi. Featuring his "Swedish Connection", Fredrik Bergh / Keys, Sven Larrson / Lead Guitar, and on drums from the Glenn Hughes Band, Pontus Engborg. Joined on BG Vocals, Marge Raymond. "Tin Soldier (Beats the Heart of a Warrior!) Now available on iTunes and Amazon and www.steveaugeri.com.
PREVIEW THE UPCOMING PLATENS ALBUM:
10 years have passed since the PLATENS debut album. Today we're here again with a brand new album titled "Out of the world" and a renewed line up: Dario Grillo: vocals, guitars and keyboards; Riccardo Barbiera: drum; Domiziano Mendolia: bass; Gabriels: Hammond & synth. The cover artwork has been realized by Caio Caldas (Dragonforce, Violet Sun Etc).
The tracklist is: 01 – Running 02 – Time Will Tell 04 – You Won't Bring Me Down 04 – Ask Yourself 05 – I Still Search For You 06 – Sometimes I Miss You 07 – Last Final Time 08 – Don't Leave Me Alone 09 – Deep In My Heart 10 – No Easy Way Out (Robert Tepper Cover) 11 – Save Me.
On the link below you can listen to the song "last final time": soundcloud.com/dario-grillo-1/platens-last-final-time.
Follow us through our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/platensmusic. Stay tuned for upcoming news of album release date.
Dante Fox will be appearing live on the Planet Rock Radio stage at this year's 'Bike For Life' Festival and ride out at RAF Cosford near Wolverhampton on Sunday 27th April. The band will be on stage at 2.40pm and will be playing material from their latest album Lost Man's Ground as well as the new double single 'A Love Affair / How Will You Know? (where to find me)'. Dante Fox also have a brand new website at: www.dantefox.com. Preview the new songs here: youtu.be/C3Z49ZnPBCc.
Louis St August of the band Mass will be making a Special Guest appearance with the band Boston on a live performance of their current #1 hit on the Classic Rock media charts "Heaven on Earth"! Join Boston along with openers Cheap Trick on June 28th @ The Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut for what should be one amazing show! Tickets on sale now! www.ticketmaster.com/event/1D004C69BD075FBA.
EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT TO RELEASE THE PINK FLOYD & SYD BARRETT STORY: Eagle Rock Entertainment is proud to announce the release of The Pink Floyd & Syd Barrett Story on 2DVD and Digital Video on May 20, 2014. Originally made in 2001, this documentary, presented in Dolby Digital Stereo, is now being presented with additional bonus material. [Pre-book Order Date April 25, MSRP $17.98] The Pink Floyd & Syd Barrett Story explores the tragic, yet celebratory life of the late Syd Barrett, lead guitarist and prominent songwriter of early Pink Floyd. With contributions from all members of Pink Floyd, as well as managers, friends, and others close to Syd, the documentary traverses the tale of this enigmatic rock legend, from his intelligent, thought-provoking songwriting and indelible stamp on the psychedelic music genre, to his 1968 departure from the band, when his increasingly erratic behavior made his continued participation in the band impossible. This 2DVD set also includes the additional interview "Roger Waters On Syd Barrett," and a second disc with bonus uncut interviews with Roger Waters, David Gilmour, Nick Mason, and Richard Wright, and a performance of "Love You" by Graham Coxon.
Pink Floyd was revolutionary, pushing popular music into new cerebral dimensions, and Syd Barrett was an integral part of the band's sound and lyrics. A charismatic cult figure with a flair for eccentricity, he crafted such unique hits as "See Emily Play" and "Arnold Layne," as well as album tracks such as "Bike" and "Astronomy Domine." His use of dissonance, feedback, and distortion in his guitar playing has inspired generations of musicians. After leaving Pink Floyd, he recorded two solo albums before vanishing from music altogether, retiring to his English hometown of Cambridge. Fans and reporters continued to travel there to seek out the reclusive Barrett until his death in 2006, at the age of 60.
At 214 minutes, The Pink Floyd & Syd Barrett Story 2DVD is an in-depth and comprehensive study of this music and cultural icon.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
TIMO TOLKKI'S AVALON "ANGELS OF THE APOCALYPSE" EPK: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of Timo Tolkki's Avalon sophomore album, "Angels of the Apocalypse" on May 16 in Europe and May 20 in North America.
Preorder the album on Amazon: www.smarturl.it/avalonangelsamaz.
The Story It is 2020 A.D - The Elements send 4 Angels to observe mankind and its actions in the last century. There are 4 Angels, but still they are One. Fire, Wind, Earth and Water are their names. With the Elements they observe in unimaginable sadness and anger the primitive events that take place in the last 150 years as they have the ability to go back and forth in time. As they give their final warning, Mankind sees unimaginable destruction that shakes its core foundations. Pandora`s Box is opened and the forces of Nature are unleashed. Is this the prelude for Judgement Day...
The Album - The concept of the Avalon Metal Opera was born in the second half of 2012, when the Finnish composer and producer Timo Tolkki, former Stratovarius guitar player and one of the true forefathers of the Power Metal genre, decided to move forward with his career and work on a project which could allow him to express his musical creativity without any boundaries, within the Classic Metal genre. The debut "The Land of New Hope" was released in May 2013 and entered the national album charts in 7 European countries, including a top 10 entry in Tolkki's home country, Finland. The album featured performances by numerous internationally acclaimed singers and musicians such as Michael Kiske, Elize Ryd, Russell Allen, Sharon Den Adel, Tony Kakko, Alex Holzwarth, Jens Johansson, Derek Sherinian and of course Timo Tolkki himself.
Tolkki resumed the work for a second album with the concept of developing the sound and the music in an even more grandiose and symphonic metal mood, even though from the beginning there was the idea to go in a heavier and darker direction which better fits the Apocalyptic scenarios described in this new album.
On the musicians' side, Tolkki finally managed to reunite the legendary Stratovarius "Dreamspace" lineup, calling Antti Ikonen and Tuomo Lassila to play keyboards and drums respectively. The amazing vocal cast appearing this time include the new Nightwish singer Floor Jansen -- handling lead vocals on the first single "Design The Century" -- along with Simone Simons (Epica), Fabio Lione (Rhapsody Of Fire), David DeFeis (Virgin Steele), Zachary Stevens (ex Savatage, Circle Ii Circle) plus Elize Ryd (Amaranthe) who appears again after the first album and the stunning Chilean singer Caterina Nix, who is working on her debut album which is also produced by Tolkki.
The Cast: Timo Tolkki: guitars, bass and keyboards; Tuomo Lassila: drums; Antti Ikonen: keyboards; Nicholas Jeudy: orchestration; Floor Jansen, Simone Simons, Fabio Lione, David DeFeis, Zachary Stevens, Elize Ryd, Caterina Nix: vocals; Produced by Timo Tolkki.
BROTHER FIRETRIBE TO RELEASE DIAMOND IN THE FIREPIT:
Some say that a diamond can be made to sparkle even brighter by placing it into a fire pit for a while. Well, Finland's melodic rock heroes Brother Firetribe have apparently spent the last four years in the proverbial firepit, because now they've returned with some pretty shiny tunes!
Diamond in the Firepit, Brother Firetribe's third full-length album will be released June 3 in North America, May 3 in The United Kingdom and May 2 in Finland/Europe via Spinefarm Records. Today the band has revealed the artwork and track listing for Diamond in the Firepit as well as released the first single "For Better or For Worse" which can be streamed HERE.
The single is available for purchase digitally on iTunes HERE.
Singer Pekka Ansio Heino spoke about the band's upcoming release: "We're thrilled to be back in action after 5 years which seems like a life time! We wouldn't be THIS thrilled if the new album hadn't turned out be exactly how we wanted it to be. It's just as bold, big, polished, hooky and sticky as we pictured it. A lot of hard work was spent making it happen and now it's time for the best part of making music; taking it out and playing it live. We can't wait to meet our old friends again and hopefully make some new ones along the way. Hope you enjoy Diamond In The Firepit. Thanks for still being there and sorry for the delay, let's have some serious fun!"
Diamond in the Firepit is chock-full of melodic rock ear candy; an unbroken string of eleven hits with glistening choruses, heavenly harmonies and lyrics brimming with larger-than life love. Sure enough, this album will be the soundtrack of the coming summer like its predecessors, for in times like these when the reality bites, the economy is down, people feel downtrodden and everyday life seems like a grind, we all need a shot of positive energy and a reminder that there's not a whole lot that can't be fixed with a smile and a song.
Brother Firetribe will be touring extensively in support of Diamond in the Firepit. Currently the band has a CD release show scheduled for May 3 in Helsinki, Finland at Virgin Oil Co and an appearance set for The South Park Festival in Tampere, Finland at Eteläpuisto on June 7. More dates will be announced in the coming weeks.
Diamond in the Firepit Track Listing: 01. Intro 02. Love's Not Enough 03. Far Away from Love 04. For Better or for Worse 05. Desperately 06. Edge Of Forever 07. Hanging by a Thread 08. Trail of Tears 09. Winner Takes It All (Sammy Hagar cover) 10. Tired of Dreaming 11. Reality Bites 12. Close To the Bone.
80'S MELODIC ROCK BAND "CHINA SKY" RELEASES DOCUMENTARY FILM AND RETURNS TO THE STUDIO:
80's rockers China Sky, best known for their 1988 hits "Some Kind Of Miracle" and "The Glory", have released a new documentary short film detailing the band's history, and are back in the studio for the first time in over 25 years. The band, hailed as "megastars in the making" by Derek Oliver in Kerrang magazine, broke up just two months after the release of their self-titled debut album in September of 1988, after numerous bad breaks, and the defection of guitarist Bobby Ingram to southern rock band Molly Hatchet. In the years following, China Sky has amassed something of a cult following among listeners of what is now called "melodic rock", and the album has become a sought-after collector's item. "A few years ago, I began to receive inquiries from all over the world about China Sky", says lead vocalist Ron Perry. "I had no idea anyone even remembered China Sky, and I was floored by the renewed interest". Sensing an opportunity to re-visit what he viewed as "unfinished business", Perry called his old bandmate, bassist Richard Smith, who was equally jarred at the resurgence in popularity of an album that had been all but forgotten about by the musicians who recorded it. Says Smith: "We put everything we had into that music. To know that there are people out there still listening to China Sky after all this time…what a great feeling".
Buoyed by the new wave of interest in the band, Perry and Smith have returned to the studio with a new group of veteran rockers in tow. Guitarist Steve Wheeler was actually a bandmate of original guitarist Bobby Ingram in the early 80's group "The Danny Joe Brown Band", and had known Perry and Smith for over 20 years. "Steve was a very natural choice for China Sky", says Perry. Drummer Bruce Crump spent 15 years as the original drummer in the southern rock powerhouse Molly Hatchet, and had actually discussed joining China Sky in the 80's. "My manager talked me out of it" recalls Crump, "so I'm thrilled to finally be sitting in the drum chair for China Sky". Keyboardist Tim McGowan hails from western Scotland, and has played for numerous groups including melodic rock band "Burning In December" and former Lynyrd Skynryd guitarist Randall Hall's backing band. Says McGowan, "My agent told me about a band from America that was looking for a keyboard player. When I found out it was China Sky, it was like wow! I remember those guys from back in the day, I was blown away!"
The band's new documentary short film entitled "China Sky – So Here's The Story…" tells the behind-the-scenes story of China Sky, and gives a sneak peek at the video for their forthcoming single "One Life". The film can be seen on youtube: youtu.be/nPHWtVQ2Jvo or on the band's website: chinaskymusic.com and on Facebook: facebook.com/chinaskymusic.
The new album is expected sometime in the summer of 2014.
DOWNLOAD THESE TWO NEW SINGLES:
New from vocalist Tony Mills - the song Northern Star - written with Robert Sall of Work of Art/W.E.T. and mixed by Neil Kernon. Taken from the upcoming album, Over My Dead Body: itunes.apple.com/no/album/northern-star-feat.-robert/id847529837.
A very cool stand-alone single release is now available from vocalist Anthony Gravely. Anthony Gravley: Lead & backing vocals, acoustic & electric guitars, bass, piano; Shawn Pelata: harmony vocal; Mark Nemer: drums.
Produced, recorded and mixed by Anthony Gravley at Addeybug Music Studio. Right now the track is only available at anthonygravley.bandcamp.com/track/thats-what-im-gonna-do. iTunes, Amazon etc will be added next month.
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
NEW SYMPHONY FROM CRAZY LIXX: Frontiers Records announces the release of Crazy Lixx brand new digital single Sympathy which is available from today onwards on all digital shops and platforms worldwide.
"Sympathy" is a brand new song taken from the yet untitled new album that the Swedish band is recording at the moment and which is planned for release in end 2014. The new song shows the attitude and the energy for which the band is well known for and goes straight back to the sound of their biggest success "New Religion". "Since we will be busy recording in the next weeks", says singer Danny Rexon"we wanted to leave something the fans could enjoy in the meantime!"
Crazy Lixx will have an exclusive live appearance at the Frontiers Rock Festival on May 3 at the Live Music Club in Trezzo (Milan). They will perform old and new songs for a great show not to be missed!
xx
DIESEL TO ISSUE THEIR DEBUT ALBUM MAY 23: Escape Music are excited to announce the final details for the new band Diesel, who will release their debut album Into The Fire May 23 in Europe.
Track listing: 01 Love Under Cover 02 Into The Fire 03 Starting Over 04 Fortune Favours The Brave 05 Brand New Day 06 Bitter & Twisted 07 So What Is Love 08 Lets Take The Long Way Home 09 Told You So 10 What You See Ain't What You Get 11 Skin & Bone 12 Coming Home.
Diesel is: Robert Hart - Vocals. / Jim Kirkpatrick - Guitars, backing vocals, additional keyboards, percussion. / Jimmy Copley - Drums. / Pat Davey - Bass.
Plus: Adam Wakeman - Keyboards. Steve Overland - Backing vocals, additional guitars on Coming Home. Alisdair McKenzie - Horns on Brand New Day.
All songs written by Robert Hart & Jim Kirkpatrick. / Produced by Jim Kirkpatrick & Robert Hart. Additional vocal production by Steve Overland. Recorded at Tremelo Studios, Stoke-On-Trent October - December 2013. Engineered by Dan Rowley. Mixed and Mastered by Tommy Hansen. Executive producer - Khalil Turk for Escape Music Ltd.
Make way for a brand new British Rock Band that features some of the best musicians in today's rock scene. With lead vocals from the great Robert Hart (Solo / Bad Company / Manfred Mann's Earth Band) and guitars from FM's very own Jim Kirkpatrick, this is a match made in heaven as they combine their song writing skills and musicianship to come up with this fantastic debut by Diesel. Diesel plays solid traditional rock in the manner of Bad Company, the sort of music that has firm roots in the classic vein of British hard Rock with a blues element. Accompanied by Jim Copley (Manfred Man's Earth Band, Go West, and Paul Rodgers) and Pat Davey (Seven) who provide the solid rhythm backbone of the band, this quartet can give you great songs and first rate melodies all day long. It is great to see that the guest list includes Adam Wakeman (Black Sabbath and Snakecharmer) and Steve Overland (Solo artist, Shadowman and FM), rounded off with the mixing skills of Tommy Hansen. From "Fortune Favours the Brave" to "Brand New Day" we are presented with delight after delight as they effortlessly give us an array of classic rock tunes. A breath of fresh air if ever there was one...
WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.
RED DRAGON CARTEL "SHOUT IT OUT": Red Dragon Cartel "Shout It Out" (Official / 2014 / New Album / Jake E. Lee). Buy the Red Dragon Cartel album on iTunes: georiot.co/2DV9 or Amazon: georiot.co/reddragoncartelcd
ECLIPSE READY TO ROCK AGAIN WITH LIMITED EDITION CD:
For the first time in years, after a strong public demand, the Eclipse album Are You Ready To Rock is now available again as a remixed and updated re-release including previously unreleased bonus tracks.
Are You Ready To Rock was the third album from the group, but by the members themselves considered the true first album in terms of sound and group line up. The album was made after some frustrating years and the writing and recording sessions became the turning point for the two remaining members Erik and Magnus. The album was released by Frontiers Records in 2008 and was an instant success all over the world. Surprisingly and to many fans disappointment the album was sold out. But the success fed the fire and the follow-up album, Bleed And Scream, was released and made a huge impact on a whole world of melodic rock fans. Due to a line of massive requests the band now have chosen to resurrect Are You Ready To Rock – in a new, fresh and updated suit!
Tracklisting: 1. Breaking My Heart Again 2. Hometown Calling 3. To Mend A Broken Heart 4. Wylde One 5.Under The Gun 6. Unbreakable 7. Hard Time Loving You 8. Young Guns 9. Million Miles Away 10. 2 Souls 11. Call Of The Wild.
Bonus tracks: 12. Haunted-Wanted (Japan Bonus Track), 13. Rather Be Dead (Unreleased Demo 2005), 14. Destination Anywhere (Unreleased Demo 2006), 15. Annabel Lee (Unreleased Demo 2006).
Are You Ready To Rock MMIV can be ordered from: www.aorheaven.com / www.bengans.se/Product.aspx?skivkod=1010571§ion=Music.
Check out www.facebook.com/EclipseSweden for additional info.
NIGHT BY NIGHT DEBUT DUE IN JUNE WORLDWIDE:
Just in from the Night By Night lads: "We are thrilled to announce that our debut, named 'NxN' will be released through Sun Hill Production on June 9, distributed by Cargo. We are very proud of the record and can't wait for you to hear it. For the first time in our career, we feel 100 percent content with the product – no disclaimers, no excuses. We're just handing you the album and saying: "go listen. We hope you'll love it."
Above all, this record has real passion; all five of us really, really care about the music we make and what it means – both to us and to you who will hear it. The music and words have been painstakingly written, we have pushed ourselves to play and sing at our very best and the production and mix has been scrutinized to the finest detail.
You'll get 10 NxN anthems, each with its own special identity, sound and meaning. Maybe it'll be like 10 episodes of your favourite TV show:
Time To Escape, Holding Onto Holding On, Can't Walk Away, Everywhere Tonight, Siren, A Thousand Lies, It's Not Faith, The Moment, If Only, Never Die Again.
Thanks to you for supporting us for so long, for being so patient and always believing in us. So, we'll be going live with this online at 3pm GMT, so please share our news on FB and Twitter and let's keep building the NxN family! You can get your copy of 'NxN' online at HMV, Amazon, digitally on iTunes and even on the high street at HMV, Fopp and your local retailers (I've always wanted to be able to say that)."
WebLinks: www.nxnofficial.com / facebook.com/nightbynightuk / @nightxnight.
xx
AUSSIE ROCKERS DE LA CRUZ CALL IT A DAY:
Australian rockers De La Cruz have called it quits after just one (acclaimed) studio release. A statement reads:
"As many of you may have noticed, De La Cruz is no longer active. We've decided to part ways and move onto new projects. We apologise for keeping you in the dark through the start of 2014, but we hope you understand that this hasn't been an easy decision for us to make. We want to thank everyone for their support over the last few years. We've had an absolute blast and owe all our success to you. Right now we're going to have a beer, and raise our glasses to all you De La fans worldwide. You'll always be the raddest fucks around. We're going to keep the page open to promote new projects from members past and present, as well as share some music from our mate's bands that we're particularly fond of. Later! - De La Cruz"
RIVERA BOMMA PERFORMING ON US EAST COAST:
Melodic Metallers Rivera Bomma will be back performing live in the East Coast TRI state area USA on May 10, 2014 at Dingbatz Clifton, New Jersey with special guest Madysin Hatter and Fever Vein. You can view a promo "spot" here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEXM3a4x2uE. Ticket info visit: www.dingbatznj.com/pages/events.php.
Rivera Bomma is also currently writing new music for their fourth full length album. Rod Rivera guitarist saids; "we have written 6 songs so far. I gotta say, they are heavy guitar driving, double bass - pump your fist in the air metal songs!! These songs are the kind of songs you wanna take the top down and drive a 100 mph. Writing With Mike LePond (Symphony X) and new drummer Dan Prestup has been great. they bring so much energy and musicianship to the songs!" Rivera Bomma hopes to enter the studio in summer 2014. for the latest on Rivera Bomma visit: www.riverabomma.com.
INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Scott Leach from Melodic Hard Rockers Crystal Ball talks to Steve Xanthis & BeRock Radio!
Steve: After a creative break the original members Scott Leach and Marcel Sardella reformed Crystal Ball with fresh blood and a great new frontman, Steven Mageney from Wuppertal, Germany. Tell me a few words about the cooperation with Steven Mageney.
Scott: We got in touch through Facebook, just when I started to get really tired because, all of the candidates we tested just didn't work out. He send me friend request, not knowing that I was looking for a singer. Looking at his profile I discovered that he worked with J. R. Blackmoore, and I really liked what I heard there. So we talked about it and I went to see a show of his coverband Bourbon Street to check him out live. That was also very convincing so we invited him to Switzerland for a live session and some recordings. Soon it became clear that he was our man.
Full Interview link: Crystal Ball Interview: minizine.berock-radio.com/html/interviews/pages014/crystal_ball/crystal_ball.html?tag=result;title;0#.UzD1C60riHt.
This week Brian from The Double Stop talked to drummer/guitarist Brian Tichy (S.U.N, Whitesnake, Foreigner, Pride & Glory). He talks about his early bands, joining Zakk Wylde's Pride & Glory, working with Stevie Salas, Ball (his first band as a guitarist), and his new band Something Unto Nothing (S.U.N) with Sass Jordan. www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYkhfbQhTnA&feature=youtu.be.
THE ICONIC AND GRAMMY-WINNING ROCK BAND YES ANNOUNCE 35-DATE SUMMER TOUR:
Throughout 2013, the iconic and Grammy-winning rock band Yes marked a career first by performing a triple-header concert featuring three of their classic albums in their entirety, all in one concert. For 2014, the band is back to rock crowds nationwide with an amazing show. The 35-date summer tour will feature Yes performing--in their entirety--1971's groundbreaking album Fragile for the first-time ever and a repeat performance from last year's tour of 1972's Close To The Edge, followed by an encore of the band's greatest hits.
Kicking off July 8 in Boston, the tour will then stop at New York City's Radio City Music Hall July 10 before making its way throughout the Northeast, hitting Wallingford, CT, Westbury, NY, Newport, RI, Washington, DC, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and more. Among their many tour stops, Yes will perform in Detroit, Madison, Chicago, Nashville, Louisville, Atlanta, St. Petersburg, Orlando, Houston, Dallas, Denver, Phoenix, Las Vegas, San Diego and San Jose before wrapping August 24 at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles.
During the encore on the upcoming tour, the multi-platinum progressive rock band--bassist Chris Squire, guitarist Steve Howe, drummer Alan White, keyboardist Geoff Downes and singer Jon Davisonwill also perform material off Heaven And Earth, their new studio album, out July 8.
The album Fragile is considered to be their U.S. breakthrough album peaking at #4 on the Billboard Album charts in the U.S. The RIAA-certified double platinum album has sold over two million copies and features Yes' hit single "Roundabout" and other classics like "Long Distance Runaround" and "Heart of the Sunrise." It also marks the band's first collaboration with artist Roger Dean on cover art, who has designed many of the band's album covers and logos. The band's album Close To The Edgewidely regarded as one of the greatest progressive rock albums ever recordedwas on the U.S. charts for 32 weeks, peaking at #3. A Rolling Stone review noted, "Yes' colors are subtle, almost imperceptible tints, but the main strokes are bold and thick, applied with sureness and natural instinct." Inspired by Siddhartha and their "state of mind" at the time, the Gold-certified album featuring epic suites such as "Close To The Edge" and "And You And I" was named one of the "100 Greatest Guitar Albums of All Time" by Guitar World (2006).
Tickets will go on sale beginning Friday, March 28. Yes is proud to provide special show packages, which include near-stage seating, a meet and greet with the band, exclusive limited-edition gifts from Yes, and much more. For more information on prices, on-sale dates and to purchase Yes packages/tickets, go to www.yesworld.com.
Monday, March 24, 2014
GUITAR SIGNED BY VINCE NEIL, VIVIAN CAMPBELL, KERRY KING BEING AUCTIONED FOR GEORGE TUTKO CANCER FUND:
Some of rock's biggest names have joined together in an auction to benefit famed music producer George Tutko (Ozzy Osbourne, Kiss, Lita Ford, Pat Benatar, Journey, Rod Stewart), who was recently diagnosed with cancer. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of rock 'n' roll history, and all proceeds will go to the George Tutko Cancer Fund to aid with his medical bills. Up for auction is a Schecter Diamond Series guitar signed by:
* Vince Neil (Motley Crue) * Bruce Kulick (Kiss, Grand Funk Railroad) * Vivian Campbell (Def Leppard, Whitesnake, Dio) * Rick Springfield * Doug Aldrich (Whitesnake) * Richie Kotzen (Poison, Mr. Big, The Winery Dogs) * Micky Dolenz (The Monkees) * Uli Jon Roth (Scorpions) * Albert Lee (Legendary Blues Guitarist) * Kerry King (Slayer) * Carlos Cavazo (Ratt, Quiet Riot) * Great White (Mark Kendall, Audie Desbrow, Michael Lardie, Scotty Snyder, Terry Ilous) * Queensr˙che (Eddie Jackson, Scott Rockenfield, Michael Wilton, Parker Lundgren, Todd La Torre).
To bid, please go to: www.ebay.com/itm/OWN-A-PIECE-OF-ROCK-HISTORY-AUTOGRAPHED-GUITAR-SIGNED-BY-MAJOR-ROCK-STARS-/251482416179?
KROKUS LIVE ALBUM DUE OUT BETWEEN NOW AND MAY:
Swiss legends Krokus have come up with what might just be the most complicated (and piracy friendly) release schedule for any album I've covered here in all my years running MR - for their new live release Long Stick Goes Boom - Live From Da House Of Rust. All Release Dates are for Digital version, unless otherwise noted:
March 21st, 2014 Australia, Belgium, Finland (physical CD + Vinyl TBA), France (CD), Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden (CD + Digital), Switzerland (CD + Vinyl), Turkey
March 24th, 2014 China, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany (CD + Vinyl), Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Japan (Phy r/d TBA), Malaysia, Netherlands (CD), Norway, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Republic Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand
March 25th, 2014 Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Columbia, Costa Rica, Italy, Mexico, Russia
April 1st, 2014 Italy (CD)
April 15th, 2014 Poland (CD)
April 18th, 2014 Sweden (Vinyl)
April 21st, 2014 Netherlands (Vinyl)
April 22nd, 2014 Canada, USA [special bundle available with CD, T-Shirt - not sold at our merchandise shop - and color sticker]
May 26th, 2014 United Kingdom (UK)
The track listing is: 1. Long Stick 2. Hallelujah Rock'n'Roll 3. Go Baby Go 4. AM Woman 5. Tokio Nights 6. Fire 7. Rock City / Betta Than Sex / Dög Song 8. Screaming In The Night 9. Hellraiser 10. Bedside Radio 11. Easy Rocker 12. Heatstrokes 13. Live For The Action 14. Hoodoo Woman.
To listen to the trailer, click on this link: youtu.be/JO39lfw2cys.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS WITH DON DOKKEN, HOUSE OF LORDS AND STAN BUSH ON RICH DAVENPORT'S ROCK SHOW: Rich Davenport's Rock Show this week features exclusive interviews Dokken frontman Don Dokken, James Christian from House of Lords, and Stan Bush, and is available now for streaming at this link: www.mixcloud.com/richdav1/rich-davenports-rock-show-dokken-special-with-don-dokken-house-of-lords-stan-bush-interviews/
The first hour of the show is a Dokken special, to mark the release of the new remastered collector's edition reissues of the first three classic Dokken albums from Rock Candy Records (www.rockcandyrecords.com), "Breaking The Chains", "Tooth And Nail", and "Under Lock And Key". Don gives an inside look at the writing, recording and touring cycle for each album, chooses two classic songs from each record, and also gives an update on the current band's current writing and recording plans.
In part two, AOR luminary Stan Bush talks about the enduring appeal of his signature hit, "The Touch", a new version of which can be found on Stan's brand new album, "The Ultimate". Stan gives the low down on the making of the new release, chooses tracks to play on the show, and discusses his plans for live shows later in 2014.
And finally, House of Lords vocalist James Christian talks about the band's new release "Precious Metal", highlights their touring schedule, and selects a pair of songs from the album.
Plus classic tracks and killer new cuts from Gary Moore & Phil Lynott, Pat Travers and Iron Savior.
You can also listen on Sunday 23rd March 15:00-17:00 GMT and Wednesday 26th March 22:00-00.00 GMT on www.totalrock.com
NEW SINGLE, NEW DRUMMER, NEW LIVE DATES:
Sweden's finest "freaks" Fatal Smile will be releasing their second single "White Trash Heroes" digitally on April 4.The song is the title track from their forthcoming album and will be released on April 25 via FS Records/GMR Music Group.
The album's first single "Like A Rockstar" was released in November 2013 and the video can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SkdDoKUN-Y
The band also welcomes their good friend "Snake" behind the drums & thanks Philty for the "Fatal years" & wish him all the best... "We really think this is our best album so far... "ť - the band commented. Expect the hardest "in your face" Fatal Smile album yet recorded - It's NOT for the faint-hearted since it´s louder, harder & faster than any of our previous albums...& it will KICK YOUR ASS!!!"
New shows have been also been added to their "White Trash Over Europe Tour" that kicks off on April 10 and will be hitting the following cities like a tornado from hell:
April 10 - Garage Deluxe, Munich, Germany (w/Shameless)
April 11 - Rattlehouse Rock, Bruckmahl, Germany (w/Shameless)
April 12 - VMax, Leipzig, Germany (w/Shameless)
April 13 - Futurum Music Bar, Prague, Czech Republic (w/Shameless)
April 17 - Chaos Club, Bologna. Italy (w/Shameless)
April 18 - Jailbreak Live Club, Rome, Italy (w/Shameless)
April 19 - Grindhouse, Pedova, Italy (w/Shameless)
April 20 - Venue Kickapoo, Tuoro sul Trasimeno, Italy (w/Shameless)
April 21 - Rock Pub, Bergamo, Italy (w/Shameless)
April 25 - Backstage Bar, Trollhottan, Sweden
April 26 - Rockbaten M/S Harmony. Helsingborg, Sweden
April 30 - Josefs House Of Blues, Eskilstuna, Sweden
May 10 - Hammersmith Visby, Sweden
May 22 - Torsdags Klubben, Balsta, Eskilstuna, Sweden
May 23 - Hawk Club, Fredrikstad, Norway
May 24 - Olsen Po Bryn, Oslo, Norway
May 25 - Six Pence, Kristiansand, Norway
May 30 - Backstage Rockclub, Sandviken, Sweden (w/H.E.A.T.)
June 19 - Freak Show, Essen, Germany
June 20 - Skull Fest, Wervik, Belgium
June 21 - High Voltage, Copenhagen, Denmark
June 27 - Tribeca, Kungalv, Sweden
July 12, Full Metal Festival, Saint-Paul-Sur-Save, France
Aug 01 - Rock Out Wild, Sorsele, Sweden
Aug 02 - Skogsroet, Rejmyre, Sweden
Sept 06 - Metal War Fest, Budapest, Hungary
Sept 10 - The Barfly, London, UK
Sept 11 - Rock City, Nottingham, UK
Sept 12 - Yardbirds, Grimsby, UK
Sept 13 - Blyth, Northumberland, UK
Sept 14 - Bannermans, Edinburg, UK
Sept 15 - The Waterfront, Norwich, UK
More dates will be added, for more info: www.fatalsmile.com.
MORE BALLADS FROM RICHARD MARX: Richard Marx has just released his second ballads compilation album Now And Forever - The Ballads. The tracklist: 01 – Loved 02 – When You Loved Me 03 – To Where You Are 04 – Suddenly 05 – Wouldn't Let Me Love You 06 – Through My Veins 07 – Done To Me 08 – Like Heaven 09 – Days In Avalon 10 – The Best Of Me 11 – This I Promise You (With Sabrina) 12 – Everybody 13 – Now And Forever 14 – Right Here Waiting.
Friday, March 21, 2014
TWO RECORDS THAT SET THE GROOVE BAR HIGH:
Two very groovy records are coming your way in May via Frontiers Records. Those are the debut album for California Breed and the latest solo album from Journey guitarist Neal Schon - So U.
Neal Schon - So U is a 9 track tour de force of groove driven bluesy hard rock, with 7 vocal tracks and 2 instrumentals. Marco Mendoza sings 3, Neal 2 and Deen Castronovo 2. There's a whole world of shredding going on, but also some more restrained and very melodic passages, with the emphasis of the album on hard rocking blues/boogie. And I know what you are thinking - yes, the 2 Deen Castronovo sung tracks are the album's most straight ahead melodic rock - one moody ballad piece and one straight up commercial anthem. Very cool. Neal fans will love it, as will fans of Marco's own work, he stamps a big influence over the material. But there's something here for Journey fans also.
California Breed - this one might divide opinion a little - but only because it really is one for the die-hard Glenn Hughes fans. This album seriously rocks, but being a long devoted Hughes fan is going to help you either enjoy it or LOVE it! This is quintessential Hughes 70s groove folks. California Breed sounds like a mix of Led Zeppelin with Black Country Communion and Glenn Hughes' own left of center solo work a la Feel. This album is straight out of 1978 with a very live-in-the-studio feel and an unbelievable groove formed by Hughes with drummer Jason Bonham. There's barely a chorus in sight, but the enjoyment comes from listening to three very talented musicians feed off each other in a loose and free flowing setting.
Release dates - EU: May 16; North America: May 20.
xx
There's new music just around the corner Night Ranger fans - and here's proof - two shots of the band on the set of their new video, being filmed this week!
xx
NEW FROM ROCK CANDY RECORDS:
The six new Rock Candy titles are all available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price including postage to anywhere in the world for the next two weeks ending on April 7.
Toto 'S/T' CANDY 221 / The release of the debut Toto album signalled a significant tipping point in the development of rock. Similar sounding acts such as Foreigner, Journey and Steely Dan had sowed the seeds of melodic AOR but none at that point had truly crafted the definitive role model. Toto took basic elements and turned them into pure gold by crafting a sound that was precise, cultivated and pretty much flawless, blending memorable songs with state of the art production and melodies that would propel their songs onto the airwaves from Los Angeles to London and all points in between. Formed by the cream of the LA session circuit, the band's credential were further enhanced by keyboard player and composer David Paich, a man who had carved a successful song writing reputation with artists such as Boz Scaggs. Joining him was guitar prodigy Steve Lukather, lead vocalist Bobby Kimball, bassist David Hungate, and two brothers in keyboardist Steve and drummer Jeff Porcaro; all men with their eyes on the prize and talent to burn. Originally issued in 1978, the album produced two massive worldwide hit singles, 'Hold The Line' and 'I'll Supply The Love', securing them a top ten album in the Billboard Charts and double Platinum certification. Elsewhere the tracks range from the soulful pop of 'Georgy Porgy' to the raging, almost malevolent, hard rock of 'Girl Goodbye'.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 1 bonus track, 16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1 Child's Anthem 2 I'll Supply The Love 3 Georgy Porgy 4 Manuela Run 5 You Are The Flower 6 Girl Goodbye 7 Takin' It Back 8 Rockmaker 9 Hold The Line 10 Angela Bonus Track: 11 Georgy Porgy (Extended remix)
Toto 'Hydra' CANDY 222 / It's fair to say that Toto's debut album was one of the surprise events of 1978. It was rammed to the rafters with methodically crafted tracks, and produced two bonafide hit singles; 'I'll Supply The Love' and 'Hold The Line'. It was these two songs that reshaped the sound of melodic rock, giving rise to the style that forever onwards became known as AOR. Certified double platinum, the future for Toto looked assured or so they thought... When they returned with their second album 'Hydra', originally released in 1979, their fans and critics were confronted with a work that although immediately recognisable, was considerably more advanced and complex. Instead of serving up another dish of stylistic pop rock, they reached deep inside and committed to elaborate compositions and intricate arrangements. In many respects the approach could be traced directly back to the band's progressive rock leanings; something that their musical ability and dexterity had always hinted at. Actually 'Hydra' is arguably Toto's finest hour. It is a record that combines all the positive aspects of a band that not only wrote great songs but also presented them in a format that wasn't clichéd or pedestrian. The title track, for instance, is a seven minutes plus anthem that has become a career cornerstone, whilst shorter, sharper tracks such as 'White Sister' and 'All Us Boys' reinforced the AOR backbone in spectacular form.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Hydra 2. St. George And The Dragon 3. 99 4. Lorraine 5. All Us Boys 6. Mama 7. White Sister 8. A Secret Love.
Toto 'Turn Back' CANDY 223 / You could say that 'Turn Back' is the lost Toto album. Whilst their debut record achieved double platinum sales figures, producing two global hit singles, and it's follow up 'Hydra', was eventually acknowledged as a neo progressive rock triumph, 'Turn Back' flew beneath the radar and barely caused a blip on the charts before disappearing from sight. The fact that their follow up album 'Toto IV' has won an unprecedented seven Grammys and contained three top 10 hit singles only seems to emphasise the point. But although it is the least well known early era Toto album, to die-hard fans of the band it is regarded as one of their creative highpoints. Originally issued in 1981, it found the band taking a far more aggressive approach, dialling down the keyboards and upping the guitar quota by a considerable margin. This was, for all intents and purposes, an arena rock album designed to stave off their detractors and emphasise that they could hold their own against meatier acts such as Foreigner and Boston. Once again, much of the material was written or co-written by David Paich but the songs are tougher and far more dynamic than their previous work. Much of this was due to the enlistment of renowned British co-producer Geoff Workman who provided a raw, heavy sound. Highlights include 'Goodbye Elenore', 'A Million Miles Away' and the brilliantly arranged 'English Eyes', a candidate for their greatest ever track.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, Produced by Geoff Workman,16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Gift With A Golden Gun 2. English Eyes 3. Live For Today 4. A Million Miles Away 5. Goodbye Elenore 6. I Think I Could Stand You Forever 7. Turn Back 8. If It's The Last Night.
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Fiona 'S/T' CANDY235 / During the 1980s women in rock were, in many respects, unfairly treated; often cast aside as little more than irrelevant eye candy whilst their male counterparts were lauded as golden gods. This was the environment that New Jersey born chanteuse Fiona found herself battling against when launching her career. Fortunately her voice and tenacity forced naysayers to admit that she was a major new talent in the making, one that would ultimately record a brace of albums and establish herself as in internationally known figure. Fiona's path to a career in music started early, singing in night clubs all the time looking for that elusive break. It wasn't until she hooked up with producer Eddie Offord and members of progressive rock band Dixie Dreggs that she got her first break recording a set of demos that won her a contract with Atlantic Records. This, her debut album, originally released in 1985, was produced by former Good Rats leader Peppi Castro and features a number of prominent East Coast backing musicians including Lou Gramm guitarist Bobby Messano. Containing a blistering selection of quality tracks, Fiona's strong and confident vocals ram home the message that she was one of the few female vocalists ready to take on the competition at their own game. Check out tracks such as 'Love Makes You Blind' and 'Talk To me' for clear cut proof."
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology,16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Hang Your Heart On Me 2. Talk To Me 3. You're No Angel 4. Rescue You 5. James 6. Love Makes You Blind 7. Over Now 8. Na Na Song.
Fiona 'Beyond The Pale' CANDY236 / Fiona's self-titled debut album certainly introduced a sensational new talent to the world of femme fronted rock. Her striking looks and gilded vocals made for a fascinating combination, giving her an edge comparable to the anthemic styles of Pat Benatar, Patty Smyth and Heart. The debut album made a sure footed impact, nicely setting up her next long playing foray. For 'Beyond The Pale', Atlantic Records teamed her up with fast rising production talent Beau Hill, a man who made waves producing a variety of Platinum selling hard rock acts, including Ratt and Winger. It was Beau who recruited a top selection of prominent musicians including Nile Rodgers, Kip Winger and Reb Beach, as well as sourcing a number of key songwriters, including material from the pens of Billy Steinberg, Bob Halligan and Peter Wolf. This time around, the material was rockier and far more contemporary, without losing any of her roughhewn charm or bonhomie. Originally issued in 1986, the record successfully combined clean cut hi-tech production chops with sizeable blasts of anthemic rock, allowing her distinctive vocals to punch home the choruses like a hot knife through butter. Check out songs such as 'Tragedy', 'Thunder & Lightning' and the up tempo 'You Better Wait', for irrefutable proof.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, contains 2 Bonus tracks, Produced by Beau Hill,16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Tragedy 2. Hopelessly Love You 3. Living In A Boy's World 4. Thunder & Lightning 5. Tender Is The Heart 6. Running Out Of Night 7. In My Blood 8. He's On My Side 9. You Better Wait 10. Keeper Of The Flame Bonus Tracks: 11. Hopelessly Love You (Vocal Remix) 12. Hopelessly Love You (Dub version).
Fiona 'Heart Like A Gun' CANDY237 / You can take the Girl out of the East Coast but you can't take the East Coast out of the girl. For Fiona's third album the diminutive singer was transported lock and stock and barrel to Los Angeles in an effort to give her a creative makeover. It was a move that shaped her label's (Atlantic Records) deep rooted belief in her potential, after recording two albums of top drawer melodic rock that indicated she was on the verge of a major breakthrough. 'Heart Like A Gun', originally issued in 1989, was primarily produced by studio wizard Keith Olsen, a man who'd notched up several platinum plus selling albums from a string of artists, including Fleetwood Mac, Whitesnake and Journey. The belief was that Olsen's magic touch would help craft an album that would catapult her into the spotlight. With help from a number of name players, including noted guitarists Brad Gillis, Mike Slamer, Tim Pierce and Dweezil Zappa, together with key song writing co-writes by Mark Mangold, Aldo Nova and Van Stephenson. Originally issued in 1989, the album exudes class and quality, a tremendous example of rugged yet melodic hard rock, with a polished and accessible sheen. Look out for the album standout, an anthemic duet with hard rock heart throb Kip Winger, 'Everything You Do (You're Sexing Me)', one the most impressive tracks of the entire era.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, Produced by Keith Olsen,16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Little Jeannie (Got The Look Of Love) 2. Everything You Do (You're Sexing Me) (Duet With Kip Winger) 3. Where The Cowboys Go 4. Mariel 5. Draw The Line 6. Here It Comes Again 7. Bringing In The Beast 8. Victoria Cross 9. Look At Me Now 10. When Pink Turns To Blue.
"Walter has been battling severe liver disease bravely for the past many months. He has continued touring and recording until a few weeks ago - he loves playing for people, and it has been the best medicine for him. We were given hope that medicinal treatment could reverse his condition but we now know that this hasn't worked. His liver has failed, and doctors say his survival depends on receiving a transplant. He is at UCLA in and out of Intensive Care, which is a prime facility for liver transplants. Walter has health insurance but this will not cover the full cost of his treatment. The medical expenses, co-pay, medication, after-care, etc. are going to be immense.
•Walter will need to cancel much of the tour planned for 2014 leaving him and his family with little income.
•By helping support this effort, you can help give Walter peace of mind and focus solely on his health and recovery before, during and after the transplant.
•The timeline is uncertain at this point. Waiting for a suitable liver donor in the hospital can be a lengthy and costly process of many weeks or even months.
•There will be considerable cost for rehabilitation, re-training and physical therapy post-surgery
Quote From Walter's Wife Marie: "Thank you for coming here and sending your love towards Walter. It means the world to him and to me to feel surrounded with your love and prayers at this difficult time. Walter has lost 100 pounds and most of his muscle tissue in the past year, and suffered much pain. It has been heart wrenching to watch him go through this. He has tried to put on a brave face for us all - he has kept playing, composing, singing, touring, and recording because music and communicating through music has always been his life line.. But he has reached the point, where he is too sick to stand up or even hold a guitar. Thank you again on Walter's behalf for your love and support."
"A portion of the proceeds from the sale of "Never Givin Up" will proudly go to the Red Circle Foundation, a non-profit organization providing immediate gap funding assistance to the families of United States Special Operations Forces. Learn more about Red Circle Foundation at www.redcirclefoundation.org. Mark on facebook: www.facebook.com/officialmarkslaughter?ref=br_tf.
WILD ROSE SIGN WITH AOR BLVD RECORDS:
The original idea for Wild Rose was sprung in 2004 by Andy Rock. A lot of soul-searching was required initially, as it was essential to find a suitable line up to harness the stylish and polished mellow sound of a quality AOR Band. Finally, after two years and several line-up changes Wild Rose settled on the line-up today, introduced to an unsuspecting public back in 2006, with quality songs composed by Andy Rock. In 2007, Wild Rose released their first promo single CD entitled "It's All About Love" which contained the hard hitting title track and "Too Late", tracks that rapidly became accepted and loved by the AOR audience.
During the same period Wild Rose were picked up as support on Talisman's Farewell Tour in Hellas. At the beginning of 2008, two members took a break from Wild Rose to fulfil their military obligations. The band was put on hold for a while and Andy Rock continued to work on writing new material. They returned in mid-2009, recording a 10 track demo CD with tracks written by Andy Rock and Dirty Haris. These songs took on a maturity all of their own and ended up on the band's debut album "Half Past Midnight", which was finally released on 10 October 2011 on Retrospect Records. This debut opus received blazing reviews in the AOR specific press and to promote the album the band followed this up by playing two shows in Athens and Thessaloniki to enthusiastic and overwhelming support from the Hellenic audiences!
In January 2012 Wild Rose participated in the "Brave New Love: A Tribute To Alien" project covering Alien's well known track "Feel My love". March 2012 and Wild Rose performed at the Rosewood Festival II along with bands like Newman, Work Of Art, Konkurent to name a few, receiving ecstatic reviews from the music press. Later on in 2012, the band worked on new songs and recorded their second album "Dangerous" which was released on 22 February 2013 on the AOR Heaven label. This release was produced & mixed by Andy Rock and co-produced by Wild Rose between December 2011 and September 2012 at WR Studios Thessaloniki, Hellas and is the first to feature the extraordinary voice of new main vocalist David A. Saylor (Push UK). Wild Rose "Dangerous" receives rave reviews worldwide from the press and in June 2013 hits No.1 on import sales in Japan (BURNN Magazine).
August 2013 and Wild Rose debut album "Half Past Midnight" hits Sold Out at Retrospect Records label. "CEO Retrospect Records / Sam McCaslin: I'm very happy to announce that the Wild Rose 'Half Past Midnight' CD is Officially Sold Out. Congratulations guys for being one of the Top Sellers ever in Retrospect's vast catalog.
Great band , great music. Much respect to Andy Rock and crew for a job well done!" It's September 2013 and the band get into the studio to record their third album with new recruits, drummer Dimos Thomaidis along with singer David Saylor. Almost a year after its release and second album "Dangerous" is almost Sold Out at the AOR Heaven label.
So, now it's March 2014 and Wild Rose are back, signing once again with AorBlvd Records and celebrating Ten Years of existence with the release of their third album. This was recorded at EVO Studios, Evosmos, Hellas, except vocals recorded at Front Room Studios, Birmingham, U.K. with additional keyboards recorded at W2R Studios, Chios, Hellas between September 2013 and January 2014. This third album was mixed & produced by Andy Rock and mastered by George Aspiotis at Studio Aspiotis, Athens, Hellas and consists 11 stellar songs, pure AOR sound complete with glorious soaring melodies, catchy choruses, emotional vocals, lush keyboards, killer guitar riffs and powerhouse drums. And the story keeps on rocking...
THE DOC RETURNS: Doc Neeson (The Angels) new single "Walking In The Rain" Released Today - Doc's first studio recording in 7 years
- Originally recorded by Flash and the Pan, Doc's recording was produced by ARIA Award winning producer Brendan Gallagher (Karma County, Jimmy Little 'Messenger') late last year at Albert Studios prior to Doc hitting the road with the RocKwiz Salutes Vanda And Young shows which toured the country last November. Penned and performed by Harry Vanda and George Young for their progressive project Flash and the Pan in 1978 and then covered by Grace Jones in 1981, this latest interpretation required a distinctive vocalist and presence to reinterpret this seemingly simple song to make it their own.
- Teaming up with Neeson is music all-rounder Brendan Gallagher. In a career spanning over thirty years, he has produced over twenty albums, including Jimmy Little's classic Messenger (1999) and Karma County's Into The Land Of Promise (2000).
** Doc Neeson's live performance on RocKwiz salutes Vanda and Young will be televised Monday March 24th (SBS One) at 9.30pm then repeated Saturday March 29th (SBS2) at 8.30pm.
Doc Neeson 'Walking In The Rain' available now (Alberts/SMA) 'Walking In The Rain' lyric video.
SHOOTING STAR & STRIKEFORCE LIVE IN ILLINOIS: www.Sweetsounds.us and 97.5FM The Rock Of Illinois with Metal Nation Radio presents Shooting Star and special guest Strikeforce on Sat July 5 at Bretz Wildlife and Winery in Caryle, Illinois. Tickets $20 at Door/and in advance. Call the Winery for July 4 Holiday Concert/Hotel/Food Packages: 618-594-8830 Gates AT 6:30pm. Show At 8pm.
THE STEELHOUSE FESTIVAL RETURNS WITH A VENGEANCE IN JULY: The Steelhouse Festival returns with a vengeance on Saturday July 19th and Sunday July 20th for another spectacular outdoor line up of rock 'n' roll in the breathtaking countryside at Hafod-Y-Dafal Farm in Ebbw Vale, South Wales. The Answer joins headliners Europe on Sunday July 20. This year's festival, which looks set to attract over 10,000 fans, will be held in a spectacular mountain top location in the heart of South Wales.
Saturday July 19th is headlined by Black Star Riders with support from The Graveltones, Tax The Heat, Buffalo Summer and Black Wolf.
Sunday July 20th is headlined by the Swedish rockers Europe, plus The Answer, former Whitesnake guitarist Bernie Marsden, Heaven & Earth and Buck & Evans.
Many more acts will be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets can be booked from the official festival website: www.steelhousefestival.com. Day Tickets Ł40, Weekend Tickets Ł65. Children 14 and under FREE (accompanied by an adult 18+). Steelhouse is the only classic rock festival to feature two exclusive UK headline performances from Europe and the remaining members of Thin Lizzy, under their new moniker Black Star Riders. With combined record sales of over 30 million albums and incredible live performances, Steelhouse 2014 promises to be the most prestigious music event in South Wales.
Europe's lead singer Joey Tempest, explains, "After playing in Wales back in 2012 we were reminded of what a great rock 'n' roll country this is. When we got the offer to play the Steelhouse we tried our hardest to make it happen. We've heard only great things about this Festival and we're coming over to do some real damage!"
SPV RE-ISSUE VIRGIN STEELE: SPV / Steamhammer is proud to re-release Virgin Steele's "The Marriage Of Heaven & Hell I+II" and "Invictus". These 2 CD digipak re-release both come with special bonus material and a huge booklet with new liner notes and unseen photos by David DeFeis.
Release Date Scandinavia: June 11th, 2014; Release Date Germany: June 13th, 2014; Release Date Europe: June 16th, 2014; Release Date USA/Canada: June 24th, 2014
David DeFeis comments on the re-releases: "It is an honor, and it is my great pleasure to be able to re-release with SPV, The two "Marriage Of Heaven and Hell" albums, and the "Invictus" album this year. These albums loom large in our Catalogue, and so much of our blood, sweat & history can be found within the fabric of these Works. In addition to the original running order titles we will also present various bonus tracks...The Marriage Of Heaven and Hell discs contain two live tracks recorded in Germany during "The Marriage" Tour, plus some new songs. Originally on the bonus disc for Invictus we had planned to issue this new 19 song "Ghost Harvest" collection that I had spoken about in the latest interviews. That plan has changed. Ghost Harvest, (which has now grown into more than 1 CD at this time!!!)....will instead be included in the upcoming box-set...(Please See further down)...and the bonus disc inside Invictus, which bears the title: "Fire Spirits", will contain over the top acoustic versions of various songs mainly taken from The Marriage Of Heaven & Hell and Invictus albums... (but a few others appear as well)....It will also contain a brand new track recorded this week. The performances on Fire Spirits were captured live and are raw, heartfelt and genuine. We wanted to show those who missed out on the acoustic gigs we had done, some of what went on there, and to also express how powerful these stripped down versions can be. With the appearance of these re-issues and the inclusion of all the various bonus tracks contained within these collections, we give thanks and salute all of You who have taken this Barbaric-Romantic ride with us....we hope you will enjoy these Works that celebrate the interaction and chemistry of the Group, and which are testament to the enduring strength of our Friendship..."
Tracklisting "The Marriage Of Heaven & Hell Pt. I+II": CD1 1. I Will Come For You 2. Weeping Of The Spirits 3. Blood And Gasoline 4. Self Crucifixion 5. Last Supper 6. Warriors Lament 7. Trail Of Tears 8. The Raven Song 9. Forever Will I Roam 10. I Wake Up Screaming 11. House Of Dust 12. Blood Of The Saints 13. Life Among The Ruins 14. The Marriage Of Heaven And Hell 15. Angela`s Castle (bonus track) 16. The Sword Of Damocles (bonus track).
CD2: 1. A Symphony Of Steele 2. Crown Of Glory (Unscarred) 3. From Chaos To Creation 4. Twilight Of The Gods 5. Rising Unchained 6. Transfiguration 7. Prometheus The Fallen One 8. Emalaith 9. Strawgirl 10. Devil/Angel 11. Unholy Water 12. Victory Is Mine 13. The Marriage Of heaven And Hell (Revisited) 14. A Greater Burning Of Innocence (bonus track) 15. Life Among The Ruins - Live (bonus track) 16. I Wake Up Screaming - Live (bonus track).
Tracklisting "Invictus": CD1 1. The Blood Of vengeance 2. Invictus 3. Mind, Body, Spirit 4. In The Arms Of The Death God 5. Through Blood And Fire 6. Sword Of The Gods 7. God Of Our Sorrows 8. Vow Of Honour 9. Defiance 10. Dust From The Burning 11. Amaranth 12. A Whisper Of Death 13. Dominion Day 14. A Shadow Of Fear 15. "Theme" From The Marriage Of Heaven & Hell 16. Veni, Vidi, Vici.
CD2 - Bonus: "Dark Distant Future" Medley #1 1. A Whisper Of Death (Intro) 2. Unholy Water 3. Trail Of Tears "With Vengeance Divine" Medley #2 4. Rising Unchained 5. Veni, Vidi, Vici 6. Defiance 7. I Will Come For You 8. Victory Is Mine "Hail The Conguering Hero" Medley #3 9. Serpent`s Kiss (Intro) 10. A Whisper Of Death (Main section of song) 11. Great Sword Of Flame 12. A Whisper Of Death (Reprise) 13. Emalaith 14. The Burning Of Rome 15. Perfect Mansions (Mountains Of The Sun) New Song 16. Do You Walk With God.
Furthermore Virgin Steele is celebrating their 35th anniversary this year. In autumn the band will release a "35th Anniversary Box Set" incl. the CDs "The Book Of Burning" and "Hymns To Victory" as well as the new recordings named the "Ghost Harvest - The Spectral Vintage Sessions". On top the box will include an extensive book and a poster. A treat and thank you for all Virgin Steele fans! And expect a totally new studio album and live activities for the beginning of 2015.
WebLinks: www.virgin-steele.com / www.youtube.com/user/VirginSteeleTV.
CONDITION RED ALBUM "II" IS BEING REISSUED DIGITALLY TODAY: Lion Music is pleased to announce a digital re-release of the second album from Condition Red, simply entitled "II" on 20 March 2014 and one which features a remixed sound. In 2003, three years after Condition Red's eponymous debut the band were back with their second opus. "Condition Red - II" which mixed progressive metal with hard rock, neoclassical and fusion. This second album is for the most part is quite different from what the band did on their self-titled first album, even though some elements tie the two releases together. The biggest change saw Singer/Violinist Ella Grussner now playing a major part in the band's refreshed sound but also Alexander King's keyboards made a much bigger impact this time round. Gerald Kloos (Empire) was the new drummer whilst guitars are once again played by two monster musicians - Lars Eric Mattsson and Alex Masi.
Condition Red II contains 13 songs, of which some are shorter instrumental interludes - and there is no song over 7 minutes, unlike on the first album where the focus was on more intricate numbers. This second album proved the band had matured musically and in terms of style is heavier, i.e. more progressive metal, than the debut album. The music has much clearer direction as all songs contained here share similar styles combining heavy metal and neoclassical with good melody lines. The album was written in 2002 and recorded and released in 2003, although the track" Train Insane" was written way back in 1994 for Lars Eric Mattsson's band Astral Groove but the original recording was never released. Lars Eric Mattsson went back in 2013 to remix and master the album and the finished product is now more suited to the band's founding members original vision, Mattsson comments, "The advent of better technology at my disposal has allowed me to craft the sound of both Condition Red albums to better reflect what I originally intended. I hope fans will enjoy these reworkings".
UPDATED TODAY: Showcase has been updated with two new AOR Heaven releases schedule for April 24 release - check out the debut SunStrike and the comeback Alien album! Sample now.
MRX has been updated with yet another year from the Billboard Rock Chart - this time it's the first part of 1983's chart. part 2 next week and then 2 more year's until the decade is covered.... Join MRX now.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
CALIFORNIA BREED DEBUT FIRST VIDEO, FIRST SONG:
Hard-hitting new rock band California Breed, together legendary vocalist-bassist Glenn Hughes, drummer extraordinaire Jason Bonham and 23-year-old newcomer guitarist-singer-songwriter Andrew Watt. Today (3/19), the powerful trio have unleashed their first single and video Sweet Tea via USA Today. Check out the video and read the Q&A with Glenn Hughes on USA Today, here: tinyurl.com/mmp7mxq.
Mixing massive riffs, gutsy vocals and gale force rhythms, the band will release their self-titled debut album on May 16 in Europe (May 19 in the UK) and May 20 on Frontiers Records. It was produced by Dave Cobb (Jamey Johnson, Rival Sons, Shooter Jennings), and was recorded at his Nashville studio and features equal co-writing credits among the three-man lineup.
California Breed will be available as a CD, digital download and a Deluxe Edition CD + DVD featuring the bonus song Solo, two video clips and a documentary. Fans that pre-order the digital download on iTunes will receive an instant download of the first single, Sweet Tea upon ordering. The iTunes and Amazon pre-order links are as follows: iTunes: smarturl.it/CaliforniaBreed Amazon CD: smarturl.it/CB_AmzCD and CD Deluxe Edition CD + DVD: smarturl.it/CB_AmzCDDVD.
For more information on California Breed, visit: www.californiabreed.com / www.facebook.com/CaliforniaBreed
CHRIS THOMPSON TO RELEASE NEW STUDIO ALBUM: Esoteric Antenna is pleased to announce the release of the new album by Chris Thompson. Known for his work as the vocalist and guitarist on many hits for Manfred Mann's Earthband, as well as featuring on the classic Jeff Wayne concept album "War of the Worlds", Chris is also a noted songwriter (penning among other songs the smash hit "You're the Voice" for John Farnham).
His new studio album, "Toys and Dishes", is his first in over ten years and draws on all the musical elements that make Chris' songs and voice so instantly recognisable. Of his new album, Chris reflects; "I'm very proud of the result. The songs really mean a great deal to me, mostly inspired by my daily life, a couple of forays into the past and a story or two! Hopefully they're accessible to both my very loyal fans and to everybody struggling to find time and money to do what they really want to with the people they love". "Toys and Dishes" sees Chris Thompson back on form.
Track Listing: 1. Million Dollar Wonder Hit 2. Millie Christine 3. Eddie Wants To Rock 4. Dark Side Interlude 5. Dark Side 6. Hey You! 7. Dream Away Little Girl 8. You're The One I Love 9. Sad Song Wishes (One Moment) 10. Talk To Me 11. We Run 12. Woe Is Me.
PLEDGE TO THE BABY'S FOR NEW ALBUM:
Hello Babys Fans! We have been hard at work in the studio recording our first release in over 30 years. Many of you know us from our string of hits in the late 70's and early 80's when songs like Every Time I Think of You, Head First, Isn't It Time, Back On My Feet Again and Midnight Rendezvous defined The Babys as an unbeatable power-pop band with a signature sound. When we all decided to call it quits with The Babys, we all went onto other amazing projects. John Waite went solo and then on to Bad English. Ricky Phillips ended up in Styx, Jonathan Cain went on to join Journey and Wally Stocker and Tony Brock joined Rod Stewart's band. The odd thing was…The Babys just went away! Just completely disappeared. No attempted reunions, no one-off gigs. Nothing. Well, maybe we didn't completely disappear.
As we all know, The Babys hits remain ubiquitous on Radio, sites like Pandora and YouTube and The Babys power-pop legacy and signature sound has certainly remained alive and well. Tony and Wally decided it might be time to play those hits again, and after a long process of auditions and rehearsals we are proud to have re-assembled The Babys! Two original members, and two new members – John Bisaha and Joey Sykes! Same sound, same passion. We made a video that you can view here, and in the video you can meet us as we discuss the process a bit more, so take a moment and check it out.
Suffice to say, we are having a blast playing together and rehearsing as a band and we are planning a tour we will announce very soon. We want to deliver the best show possible and make sure the hits and the sound and energy reflect exactly what The Babys fans would expect.
We have assembled our band, rehearsed like crazy, and played some warm up dates. And now we are in the middle of making an album to deliver to you in April 2014. The Babys are beyond grateful to Pledge Music and for their help in getting our message out to our fans. And we need to ask your help to deliver a dream!
Your help and support will provide us exactly what's needed to create our new album. Additionally and as importantly, the support you offer will help us market the new album. In exchange for your support, we promise to deliver to you the purest and most powerful signature power-pop that has always defined The Babys! We have a very important charity that is near and dear to all of us in the band, and 10% of our funds go directly to them. Take a moment and watch our interview video, then check out our streaming player where you can hear all those great hits. We have also posted a video here of us performing our new single "Not Ready To Say Goodbye".
Keep checking back, we are updating with new information all the time. Love, The Babys (Tony, Wally, John and Joey)
WebLink: www.pledgemusic.com/projects/thebabys#exclusives.
REDRUN LAUNCH SECOND LEG OF 2014 TOUR: Redrum feel proud to announce the second leg of their "Victims Of Our Circumstances Tour"! Confirmed dates below:
Redrum Second Leg 2014 ~ Victims Of Our Circumstances Tour ~
26th April 2014 Polinerooock Fest – Plovdiiv, BG
05th July 2014 Mental Noise V Festival – Nicosia, CY
17th October 2014 Olsen PĂ Bryn – Oslo, NOR
18th October 2014 Olsen Pa Bryn - Oslo, NOR
24th October 2014 Firefest XI Festival – Nottingham, UK
JOE ELLIOTT BACK WITH DOWN N OUTZ: Joe Elliott's Down 'n' Outz Returns with Follow Up Album this April. The Down 'n' Outz album, "My Regeneration" was so much fun, the guys decided to record another album paying homage to the legendary band, Mott the Hoople! Out on April 22, the album will feature 12 tracks, 11 Mott the Hoople and 1 original tune.
BARREN CROSS ISSUES NEW RELEASE:
Christian metal veterans Barren Cross commemorate their 30th anniversary by releasing their first new album in 18 years. Birth Pangs features all 4 original members vocalist Michael Drive (Mike Lee), guitarist Ray Parris, bassist Jim LaVerde and drummer Steve Whitaker. It also features the new single "Whitewashed Love". Birth Pangs was recorded live in Switerland Element of Rock. Comes in a beautiful 2 Disc CD set. "Birth Pangs" draws its material from each of the four Barren Cross studio albums, in addition to including two new songs and a third which was previously unreleased.
Tracks: 1. Intro 2. Living Dead 3. Stage Of Intensity 4. Close To The Edge 5. The Unsuspecting 6. Two Thousand Years 7. Return Of The Light (Previously Unreleased) 8. Believe 9. Light The Flame 10. He Loves You 11. Dying Day 12. Bigotry Man 13. Here I Am 14. A Walk With God (New Song) 15. Whitewashed Love (New Single) 16. Rattle Your Cage 17. Deadlock 18. Cultic Regimes 19. Killers.
Barren Cross represents one of the foundation bands to have emerged out of the early Eighties and played a pioneering role in the "white metal scene" that followed. The group independently released its six-song debut EP, "Believe", in 1985 prior to signing with Star Song Records for its first full-length album from 1986, "Rock For The King". A contract with mainstream label Engima Records ensued, which resulted in follow-up full-length releases "Atomic Arena" (1988) and "State Of Control" (1989). BARREN CROSS remained productive into the Nineties, releasing its first live album on Medusa Records in 1990, "Hotter Than Hell! Live", in addition to its 1994 Rugged Records swan song effort "Rattle Your Cage", which some say is their best studio album to date.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
THREE LIONS "TROUBLE IN A RED DRESS" (OFFICIAL VIDEOCLIP / 2014):
Three Lions is the sensational eponymously titled debut album from this new British 3 piece rock band. The band consists of Vinny Burns (Dare, Ten, Asia) on guitar, Greg Morgan (Dare, Ten) on drums and introduces Nigel Bailey on vocals and bass guitar. Three Lions' debut features 12 brand new tracks, written by the band and also in collaboration with producer Alessandro Del Vecchio on 2 songs. Recorded at The Viper Room, Coil Tap Studios in the UK and Ivory Tears Studio in Milan, this album combines massive guitar riffs and great hooks alongside driving rhythms and powerful, yet emotional vocals.
The band was formed when Vinny, Greg and Nigel were introduced by Serafino and Alessandro at Firefest in October 2012. The guys hit it off straight away and immediately set about writing new material for the album. The first single, Trouble In A Red Dress, captures the energy of the band and is a classic foot stomping rock song with an infectious groove, soaring guitars and a chorus you have to sing along with.
The album is made up of songs that were written without an agenda. "We set out to write good songs, the only criteria was that all of us liked them" said Nigel, "Working with Vinny and Greg has been a blast and we were all determined to make the best album possible and are immensely proud of the songs that have made it onto the final record". From the eastern influenced Kathmandu, to the driving power of Hellfire Highway and Twisted Soul, to the heartfelt ballads Made For One Another and Don't Let Me Fall. This album delivers passionate performances from the guys. Vinny's trademark guitar work is, as you would expect, filled with emotion and feel. "I wanted to start with a blank canvas for the guitars" says Vinny. "This album allowed me to show a different side to my playing whilst retaining the familiar sound and feel fans of Dare and Ten will recognise". "Working with Vinny again has been great fun and Nigel brings something new to the table" said Greg. "This is definitely a record made by a band, not just a studio project, and that really comes across in the songs. We had an instant connection as musicians but also as people and we cannot wait to get out and perform these songs live soon".
Hear The Roar!!!
Order Now Three Lions debut album on Amazon: www.smarturl.it/threelionsamazon or iTunes: www.smarturl.it/threelionsitunes.
FM LIVE IN THE USA - M3 ROCK FESTIVAL:
The mighty FM have been invited to play the prestigious M3 Rock Festival, Merriweather Post Pavilion, Columbia, Maryland, USA on Saturday 26th April. The festival is now in its sixth year, along with FM this year's line-up includes Tesla, Night Ranger, Kix, Extreme, Winger, Stryper, Queensryche, Lita Ford, Sebastian Bach, LA Guns, Keel, Slaughter, Autograph and more… "We're really looking forward to playing the M3, not many British bands get the opportunity. This will be FM's first show in the USA, it's going to be quite a knees-up!" - Merv Goldsworthy.
"Cold Hearted" from FM's forthcoming EP Futurama has been added to the Planet Rock Radio playlist this week.
INTRODUCING POWER METAL FROM SWEDEN: Doolittle Group are proud to release the first promo video "Unlock All The Doors" opening track from Sweden´s true power metal band Morning Dwell. www.youtube.com/watch?v=U43ut2FVdis&feature=youtu.be
Their debut album band scored as high as 83 points of 100 in Burrn! Magazine in Japan. If you love bands such as Helloween (Keeper of the Seven Keys era) Blind Guardian, Gamma Ray, ReinXeed and Stratovarius. Artwork done by no other than Andreas Marshall ( Blind Guardian, Helloween, Hammerfall, Gamma Ray).
The album is produced by Frippe Eliasson and Petter Hjerpe and mixed by CJ Grimmark (Narnia, Empire 21, Rob Rock) Watch, listen and share this video to all your metal friends! Release: March 19, 2014 in Japan and April 2, 2014 rest of the world.
Line-Up: Petter Hjerpe - Vocals, Samuel Olsson - Keyboards, Michel Barréra - Guitars, Martin Erneström - Bass, Alfred Fridhagen - Drums, Ulf Zetterman - Guitars.
WebLinks: www.morningdwell.com / www.facebook.com/MorningDwell.
EXODUS VIDEO ONLINE FROM SIGNUM REGIS:
The melodic metal band Signum Regis have uploaded video footage from their show at Elements of Rock in Switzerland this weekend. Check out video footage from the track "Exodus" feat. Mayo Petranin here: youtu.be/K7enETT82Hg
"Exodus" was released on November 15th in Europe and December 3rd in North America through Ulterium Records. Check out the track at YouTube here: youtu.be/r8oYI90zxbc.
"Exodus" feat. guest vocals by Lance King [ex. Pyramaze, Balance of Power], Michael Vescera [Obsession, Animetal USA], Matt Smith [Theocracy], Daosa Munhoz [Vandroya, Soulspell], Eli Prinsen [Sacred Warrior, The Sacrificed], Samuel Nyman [Manimal], Thomas L. Winkler [Gloryhammer, Emerald], Goran Edman [ex. Yngwie Malmsteen, John Norum] and Mayo Petranin [Castaway]. The album was mastered by Tommy Hansen [Helloween, Jorn, Circus Maximus] and the artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco [Blind Guardian, Rhapsody of Fire].
"Exodus" is a historical concept album about the Israelites who were enslaved in ancient Egypt.
Check out an album teaser at YouTube: youtu.be/99bIAAvAhPg.
TOUR DATES FOR ERIK NORLANDER AND THE GALACTIC COLLECTIVE:
Four USA cities east of the Mississippi will come alive with the art of music this Spring. Renowned prog rock/art rock/symphonic instrumental rock international recording artist Erik Norlander and The Galactic Collective will perform four exclusive concerts in four USA cities during the months of April and May. Along with Erik Norlander, The Galactic Collective band lineup for the Spring 2014 concerts includes Jeff Kollman (UFO, Glenn Hughes, Michael Schenker) – guitar; Mark Matthews – bass guitar; and Nick LePar – drums.
The concerts are scheduled as follows:
Friday, April 11 The Winchester Music Hall 1212 Madison Ave. Lakewood (Cleveland), OH 44107 8PM Ticket info: http://www.thewinchester.net/
Sunday, April 13 New Jersey Proghouse (Roxy & Duke's Roadhouse) 745 Bound Brook Road Dunellen, NJ 08812 6PM Ticket info: http://www.njproghouse.com/2014/01/16/erik-norlander-and-the-galactic-collective-the-yellow-box-april-13-2014/
Thursday, May 8 TBA Asheville, NC Stay tuned for more info about this show coming soon!
Friday, May 9 Cherokee Arts Center 94 North Street Canton (Atlanta), GA 30114 7:30PM Ticket info: http://www.sergeentertainmentgroup.com/galactic-collective-concert/ Sponsored by Chandler Graphics and Hampton Inn of Canton.
Considered one of progressive/art rock's most talented and innovative keyboardists of the same caliber as luminaries Keith Emerson, Rick Wakeman, and Jon Lord, Erik Norlander has remained a stalwart in the progressive rock movement for over two decades. He has recorded, produced, written, and performed with many of prog rock's highly regarded acts including ASIA featuring John Payne, Rocket Scientists, Lana Lane, Big Noize, and the Roswell 6 project. Erik has worked with a veritable who's who of top rock performers and musicians including Vinny Appice, Tony Franklin, Glenn Hughes, Buck Dharma Roesser, Mitch Perry, James LaBrie, Carlos Cavazo, and many others. His recordings and projects have been released worldwide by recording labels Sony, Avalon, Frontiers, Inside Out, Kinesis, and Voiceprint, among others. He has also developed keyboards for Alesis and audio tracks for Line 6, and his music has been featured on television and in documentaries.
The debut Galactic Collective recording was originally released in 2010 as a re-imagination of some of Erik's favorite solo recordings as well as recordings with Lana Lane and Rocket Scientists. It was followed by the CD and DVD release Live In Gettysburg recorded at the Majestic Theater during the highly successful Galactic Collective performance at the storied Rites of Spring Festival. Erik Norlander, with his various projects, continues to schedule concerts throughout the world. Erik will also release a new CD and YouTube video from his Rocket Scientists project on March 19th with copies for sale at all shows on this tour.
WebLinks: www.eriknorlander.com / www.facebook.com/erik.norlander.artist.page.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
GUITAR LEGEND NEAL SCHÖN TEAMS UP WITH MARCO MENDOZA AND DEEN CASTRONOVO:
Guitar legend Neal Schön has joined forces with bassist Marco Mendoza (Black Star Riders, Ted Nugent, Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy) and drummer Deen Castronovo (Journey, Ozzy Osbourne, Steve Vai, Hardline) to create a unique body of work with jazz and blues-inspired virtuosic hard rock playing, entitled SO U. The new album features Schön, Mendoza and Castronovo splitting vocal and writing duties, with many of the tracks also co-written by Night Ranger/Damn Yankee's songwriter, singer and bassist Jack Blades. Please see below for the track listing and click here to access the album cover for SO U. Of SO U, Neal Schön commented, "This is a great new record that features all three of us – Deen, Marco and myself – sharing lead vocals. Enjoy!"
Best known as founding member and lead guitarist of Journey, Neal Schön has enjoyed a remarkable career as one of rock n' roll's top virtuosos, with a hand in creating some of the most popular songs of all time. Beginning his career more than 35 years ago in the San Francisco Bay area, the 15-year-old guitar prodigy left home to join Santana. Schön moved on in 1973 to form Journey. With Journey and other projects, he has earned 19 Top 40 singles and 25 platinum and gold albums, was awarded the prestigious "Legend Of Live Award" at the 2011 Billboard Touring Awards, received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005 and was individually inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall Of Fame in 2013. As the only member to record on all of Journey's albums, Schön continues with the band today in its latest incarnation.
In addition to 6 solo albums and 14 studio albums with Journey, Neal Schön has also performed with Joe Cocker, Sammy Hagar, Paul Rodgers, Larry Graham, Betty Davis, Michael Bolton, fusion legend Jan Hammer, Hardline and supergroup Bad English, as well as a variety of side projects. His latest instrumental solo album, THE CALLING, released in 2012 via Frontiers Records, won rave reviews from fans and the media alike, with Vintage Guitar declaring "THE CALLING is a fine piece of work demonstrating that Schön still has it going on – and then some…The songs are strong and his guitar tones are absolutely luxurious." In demand as one of the leading guitarists of his generation, Schön also worked with Gibson to manufacture his own limited edition "Neal Schön Signature Model Custom Les Paul" guitar, but now uses custom PRS Neal Schon LTD Private Stock guitars, made especially for Neal by Paul Reed Smith.
SO U track listing: 1. Take A Ride 2. So U 3. Exotica 4. What You Want 5. Love Finds A Way 6. On My Way 7. Serenity 8. Shelter 9. Big Ocean.
For more information please visit: www.schonmusic.com / frontiers.it.
FRONTIERS ROCK FEST UPDATE:
The 1st Frontiers Rock Festival, which will be held at the Live Music Club in Trezzo (Milano, Italy) on May 1, 2 and 3 which will see performances from 21 bands in three days including such artists as Tesla, Stryper, Night Ranger, Winger, Pretty Maids, Hardline, W.E.T., Red Dragon Cartel, Danger Danger, Jeff Scott Soto and more, offers a limited amount of 150 VIP Tickets in total (which are close to be sold out now – hurry up!). VIP ticket experience includes 4* hotel accommodation, shuttle service to the venue, dinners, drinks and the possibility of meeting the artists in person while enjoy the Festival from an advantaged viewpoint.
Frontiers is also pleased to include a special present which will include the following gifts:
- the exclusive VIP Fans Festival t-shirt;
- Frontiers Rock Festival bag – on sale during the Festival to the non-VIP ticket holders;
- exclusive posters and memorabilia from Frontiers bands;
- the official Festival compilation cd - which will only be available on sale in limited quantities during the Festival days to the non-VIP ticket holders – plus 5 more Frontiers cds;
- the official Festival Guide – on sale during the Festival to the non-VIP ticket holders;
- pins and key rings offered by EMP, one of the official sponsors of the Festival.
On the second day of the Festival will exclusively raffle among all spectators of the day a Jake E Lee signature Charvel guitar, a.k.a. the "White Pearl," exclusively signed by all Red Dragon Cartel band members, plus a Jake E Lee guitar pick!
All info and tickets purchase available at www.frontiersrockfestival.com.
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KISS & DEF LEPPARD HIT THE ROAD: Kiss and Def Leppard will team up this summer for a 42-city North American tour that will "deliver good news and excitement," says Kiss guitarist Paul Stanley. The tour begins June 23 in West Valley City, Utah, and wraps up Aug. 31 in Woodlands, Texas. Tickets go on sale starting Friday. The groups announced the tour Monday at the House of Blues in Los Angeles.The press conference was streamed live via the Live Nation website: new.livestream.com/livenation/defleppardandkiss/videos
Def Leppard singer Joe Elliott says he and Gene Simmons first discussed the idea of the two bands touring together when he and the Kiss bassist played some South American dates two years ago as part of a rock-and-roll all-stars tour. "It's finally happened, which is fantastic," Elliott says.
It'll be the first time the two bands have shared a bill, though Stanley says, "We've run into each other at festivals. It just seemed to be a natural fit." Stanley also noted that one of guitarist Phil Collen's pre-Def Leppard bands, Girl, opened for Kiss in the U.K. during the early '80s. Kiss did a similar co-headlining tour with Motley Crue in 2012. Kiss released its first albums, Kiss and Hotter Than Hell, 40 years ago, and the band will commemorate the anniversary with a slew of archival releases, including a 34-LP vinyl box set and a two-CD compilation called Kiss 40. The group will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame April 10. Def Leppard has been writing music for the group's next album. "We all camped out at my house last month and wrote songs, which you will hear none of this summer," Elliott says. Collen says he expects that album to come out in 2015.
Simmons says a dollar from each ticket sold on the tour will go to to the Wounded Warrior Project and other military non-profits. Those charitable partners include the USO, Hire a Hero, Project Resiliency/The Raven Drum Foundatio, and The Augusta Warrior Project. "Politicians fart through their mouth," Simmons says. "Only the military makes freedom possible."
Stanley adds that the group also plans to hire vets for its crew. "We try to find a couple of vets who want to go out and be part of the team," he says. "This is a chance for somebody to travel and be part of the Kiss Army."
Elliot says he doesn't see any rivalry developing between the groups while they're on tour. "It's two great bands that are going to be playing for the same amount of time," he says. "It's joint forces. I don't see it as competitive at all."
From: www.usatoday.com/story/life/music/2014/03/17/kiss-def-leppard-summer-heroes-tour/6525475/
VASBY ROCK FESTIVAL ADD EUROPE TO HEADLINE: VRF crew would like to proudly inform that after more than 30 years Europe will be back on homeground in Upplands Väsby, CO-headlining and closing the Väsby Rock Festival 2014.
The other headliner for the event will be the well known Väsby profile Leif Edling with his Candlemass and of course we are also proud to present great bands such as TNT, Pretty Maids, Jorn, Gotthard ,Primal Fear, House Of Lords and others for the highly anticipated festival in Upplands Väsby. This year the event will take place at Vilundaparken 18-19/7 in Upplands Väsby and the event presents a lineup of 26 bands in total, over two days, at two stages. There is also a camp-area for overnight visitors and the whole festival area is located all over the Vilunda-complex.
All info at www.vasbyrockfestival.se.
LOVEBLAST - RELEASE "WILD FOREVER" MUSIC VIDEO:
Chicago, IL hard rockers, Loveblast, have released a music video for their single Wild Forever. The video was shot by Motion Source Video Production (The Last Vegas, Hessler) and directed by Craig Bass.
This is the first music video from the band's most recent EP, Hard Liquor In Big Glasses, which was recorded and produced by Chuck Macak of Electrowerks Music Production (Oceano, Mecca, Pamela Moore). The EP has been receiving rave reviews internationally, and the band will begin recording a follow up release in the coming months. "They have found a stunning mixture of 80s hardrock with modern rock and every song has radio written over them." - Juha Harjula, Melodic.net "A hard-hitting and talented band from Chicago, Loveblast's new EP Hard Liquor In Big Glasses is a well-produced fistful of heavy guitars, confident vocals and consistently catchy writing." - Sophie Brownlee, Sleaze Roxx "With sleazy, but not filthy, lyrics, catchy rhythms, and a touch of modern production, Hard Liquor In Big Glasses is perfect hard rocking fun that seems to find itself wedged into my CD player on a frequent basis!" - Arttie Parker, Glitter2Gutter Loveblast will be performing at the 2014 Rocklahoma festival alongside Kid Rock, Five Finger Death Punch, Twisted Sister, and more. The band will also be appearing at Skull Fest 2 in North Platte, NE with Lizzy Borden and House Of Lords.
ARP INTERVIEWED:
Greece's Rockpages.gr did an exclusive interview with Axel Rudi Pell for the promotion of his latest album "Into The Storm". Here's an excerpt:
Rockpages.gr: Alright! Let's start with your brand new album "Into The Storm". Once again, it doesn't deviate from your familiar style and from my perspective it's another great album that could have been really the natural evolution of any record of yours since "Oceans of Time"…what do you think? Axel Rudi Pell: I agree with you…yes…I think it's almost like the continuation of "Oceans of Time". I believe that it's the same mood and so far everyone seems to like the record. I am very satisfied with it.
Rockpages.gr: Right from the cover sleeve and the track list, the listener gets instantly the perfect image of what he is about to listen from an Axel Rudi Pell record. Is it really a case of "if something works, don't change it"? Axel Rudi Pell: Absolutely! You are right. I don't like to change things because I really like the way the songs are coming up and the overall style of my playing. Everything worked fine during the recording of "Into The Storm" so there wasn't any reason at all of fixing something.
Read The Full Interview Here: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=10241&type=1&lang=EN.
INTRODUCING BJARNE LANGHOFF'S DEBUT ALBUM:
Skilled songwriting and cool eighties' references; Langhoff releases well produced debut album...
With vivid songs about love and life, Danish singer Langhoff releases his debut album "Safe Distance". The album contains skilled songwriting, impressive performances from the featured musicians, and a well workedthrough production – not to mention Bjarne Langhoff's powerful singing voice.
On "Safe Distance", Langhoff's fondness for the great works of the eighties and nineties shines through, his musical universe echoing with references to Seal, Peter Gabriel, Nik Kershaw and even Toto – but it is still very much a universe of his own creation, one where songwriting craft and Langhoff's signature voice transport the listener through this beautifully arranged album, characterized by its unique and dynamic sound.
In 2009 Langhoff entered the big stage of the west coast music world when he was featured as a solo performer on the "Tribute To David Foster" collection, a signature album to honour one of the finest songwriters in the world. Other noted vocalists on this album included Bill Champlin (Chicago), Bill LaBounty, Arnold McCuller (James Taylor Band), Jeff Pescetto, Robbie Dupree, all supported by a line-up of L.A.'s top studio musicians. Langhoff's great vocals on the "Tribute To David Foster" later resulted in an invitation to contribute to the album "Highlights And Rarities" with his version of the top hit "She's A Beauty", originally performed by The Tubes.
Langhoff first performed his way into Danish viewers' hearts in 2012 during the premier season of the television program The Voice. But the earthbound Dane didn't want to rush into an album release and instead continued his work on "Safe Distance", already a long time in the making.
"The first lines were written more than 16 years ago, but only now is it exactly as I want it," Langhoff says. And as a composer, lyricist, instrumentalist, singer and producer, Langhoff brings an accomplished and exciting work to completion with his first release: "I've tried to imagine a smaller production, but I simply love exactly this sound and I decided that I would not compromise. Now I think the songs are perfect. There is a common thread, and the album is coherent."
To reach the depth and dynamism that matches Langhoff's ideal sound, he allied himself with a team of experienced musicians (Jonas Krag, Lars Daugaard, Allan Nagel and others) and put the mixing and the mastering in the hands of renowned Finnish sound engineer Mikko Raita and mastering legend Jan Eliasson.
The album was produced by Bjarne Langhoff himself, with the help of co-producer Lars Daugaard, and can be purchased on iTunes. CDs can be purchased from www.langhoff.us. A CD Showcase has been launched for Langhoff here.
ARE YOU READY TO ROCK - AGAIN?:
Sweden's mighty Eclipse have released a new version of their acclaimed Are You Ready To Rock album, initially on iTunes, featuring audio that has been fully remixed and remastered from the original release.
So far the 11 track album is iTunes only, but in the coming weeks will be released as a 15 track CD version, featuring 4 previously unreleased songs. Stay tuned for further details, including a new press release from the band and CD purchase links.
DENNIS DeYOUNG PLANS BUSY 2014:
Great news from Dennis DeYoung's Facebook page:
"Hey everybody. At long last the contracts are signed and I can announce with great pride that Frontiers Records will be releasing the live deluxe DVD, Blue Ray and CD package later this year featuring the show at the El Rey theater for AXS television. I am constantly amazed at the good fortune that has been afforded me at this point in my life. Baby I'm amazed. (Which by the way was what I thought the title of the Mc Cartney song was for years). I'd like to thank Serafino Perugino the president of Frontiers for his belief and support and for being such a fan, who knew?
In a recent phone call I asked him what was it he liked about me other than my wicked good looks and he said your songs and your voice. He has now made a friend for life for not saying my jokes and The Grove Of Eglantine. He told me he loved CarrieAnn and Love at First Sight from Edge of the Century plus all my ballads and that he was looking forward to exposing me to a world wide audience. I asked him if that included Joliet Illinois and he said yes. "Yippie yi yo ki yay" is all that I can say. And that rhymes.
He also told me that he would like to have an album of new music from me, wow!
"I wash my hands of your self destruction" While all these negotiations were taking place I was offered the chance to reprise my role as Pontius Pilate in the new Andrew Lloyd Weber produced "Jesus Christ Superstar" arena tour coming to North America this summer. I thought long and hard about this generous offer knowing that the tour would undoubtedly garner great attention in both the US, Canada and Mexico. The show will be playing in places like Madison Square Garden, Staples Center and Chicago Stadium, venues that would be thrilling to perform in. Oh how I really wanted to take this opportunity.
Unfortunately at the same time the tour was being planned I had already agreed to deliver the mixes and the artwork for the live Frontiers project. In the end I decided that the DVD/CD was of the utmost importance. My thanks to Clint Mitchell of William Morris for even considering me for this role." Cheers ~ DDY.
CRAZY LIXX TO RELEASE NEW SINGLE:
Sweden's Crazy Lixx will release a stand-alone single March 24 titled Symphony. The track is a stand-alone song that will keep fans happy before a new album is delivered later this year. The band just posted this message online:
"Okay, considering the massive reactions on the Sympathy cover we feel that we have to clarify a couple of things:
1. Sympathy is a single, not the album that is coming later this year.
2. It will be released digitally only, no physical printing (at least not yet)
3. It is not one of the songs that will be featured on the coming album, it is a stand-alone single.
Please share and spread the word, and let us know what you think of the tune (once it's released)."
INTRODUCING SKYSCRAPER: Skyscraper is a new project featuring Lee Small - Vocals (Shy); Tor Talle - Guitars and keyboards (Northern Light, Overland, Joe Lynn Turner); Dave Boyce - Bass (Airrace, Quireboys). Guest Musicians: Imre Daun - Drums (Salute); Bruce Gaitsch - Acoustic guitars (Madonna, Richard Marx, Chicago) - all produced by the always relaible Martin Kronlund.
The debut album will be released in the months to follow. Stay tuned for the updates. Skyscraper Album teaser 2014:
CAPTAIN BLACK BEARD – SIGNS WITH DEAD END EXIT RECORDS AND TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM: Captain Black Beard's debut CD has been hailed in the press with tons of great reviews all over the world and now it's time for their second release "Before Plastic" - It contains 11 rocking tracks as well as guest appearances by former Kiss guitarist Bruce Kulick and Mats Karlsson (220 Volt, The Summit). They are celebrating this by putting on a big rock´n´roll show you don't want to miss!
It's taking place at Bryggarsalen in Stockholm on the 28th of May. But before that you can catch them live on the following dates:
2014 March 20th @ Hard Rock Hell AOR - Hafan Y Mor, Wales (+ UFO)
2014 March 21st @ Warehouse 23 - Wakefield, England (+ Graham Bonnet)
2014 March 22nd @ Asylum - Chelmsford, England (+ Last SuperHeroes)
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/pages/Captain-Black-Beard/310178881506 / www.captainblackbeard.net.
CD SHOWCASE UPDATED:
Some big new CD Showcases online for you to check out today - Winger, Sebastian Bach & Three Lions (Frontiers Records, April 18 release); Pavic (New Venture Music, out now) and Langhoff - Safe Distance (out now). Check them out!
Friday, March 14, 2014
DANTE FOX RELEASE DOUBLE A SINGLE 'A LOVE AFFAIR' ON MARCH 20:
Highly Acclaimed UK Female fronted melodic rockers Dante Fox will release a brand new double A side single featuring the explosive How will you know? (where to find me) and the classy power ballad A Love Affair on March 20 to coincide with the bands appearance at the highly acclaimed festival Hard Rock Hell AOR 2 also on March 20th (featuring UFO, Graham Bonnet, Robin beck, House Of Lords etc) The Two brand new songs have been recorded at M2 Studio's (Magnum) and the bands own private studio by Mark V Stuart and Sheena Sear. The tracks were mixed by Sheena Sear at M2 Studio's in March 2014 Both songs can be purchased from iTunes (worldwide) and Amazon .You can pre-order from Amazon now.
This release follows the highly acclaimed 'Lost Man's Ground' album which has kept Dante Fox busy enjoying sold out shows at Firefest where Classic Rock commented: "Dante Fox sounded like a well-oiled machine and as a musical entity they had few peers tonight, Sue's spellbinding vocals displays grace, control and passion" - Classic Rock AOR 7.
A very successful tour as special guests to Romeo's Daughter in October 2013 and an utterly magical night at the O2 Academy Islington with US AOR giants Night Ranger the band also played shows with Electric Boys and White Widow have rekindled their bond with the fans. Lead vocalist Sue Willetts was voted in the top Twenty Female vocalists of all time in Classic Rock AOR.
The current line-up features Sue Willetts - Lead Vocals, Tim Manford - guitars, Andy Perfect - Drums, Pete Lakin - Keyboards, Alan Mills - Bass.
The band are currently busy writing more new material for the brand new studio album expected late 2014.
For further information please visit the Dante Fox Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/pages/Dante-Fox-Fan-Page/329436135492?ref=hl and website www.dantefox.com.
WIG WAM BREAKS UP:
Sad news, with melodic rockers Wig Wam calling it a day. the news was reported in the Norwegian press today. The translation of the article from Dagbladet.no:
"Glamrock band Wig Wam, Ĺge Sten Nilsen at the forefront, have chosen to go home after 13 years. Wig Wam had plans for a re-release in 2014, but has now decided to drop all cooperation and pursue individual careers. "Wall Street" thus became the band's last album, and last year's concert at Dokka was the band's final performance. There will be no an ending tour or concert, the band said in a statement.
Ĺge Sten Nilsen will continue as a solo artist, while Trond Holter and Bernt Jansen plays in the band Jorn. The band got their breakthrough in 2005 when they won the Norwegian Melodi Grand Prix final in front Jorunn Erdal with the song "In My Dreams". In the finals they landed on shared ninth place with Denmark.
After Eurovision participation was the album It's Hard to Be a Rock'n Roller 18 weeks on the album chart, while the single "In My Dreams" went right to the top."
CONQUEST OF STEEL SPLIT: Conquest of Steel are sorry to announce the departure of James 'Claymore' Clarke from the band. As his soul transcends to Valhalla, the rest of the band have seen fit to test their sword arms against other foes and thus Conquest of Steel will rest, until like King Arthur before them their steel is needed and they rise once more to battle the enemies of metal. To all those brothers and sisters of metal who have supported the Steel over the years... we salute you!
With four gigs booked before the dark earth swallows our corpse you'd better rush to the Conquest of Steel shop for cheap merch (Sale On Now! see conquestofsteel.miiduu.com) and see our gig listings for details on where to see the 'Steel one last time.
NEW UFO TOUR DATES FOR EUROPE:
Influential hard rock band UFO announce new tour dates for Europe. In tow they have the latest album Seven Deadly which is out on SPV/Steamhammer as a limited edition Digipak (incl. 2 bonus tracks), a Double Gatefold LP with printed inner sleeves and coloured vinyl, standard edition and download. A new studio album is expected for early 2015.
UFO Tour dates 2014:
19.03. GB-Leamington Spa - The Assembly
20.03. GB-Warrington - Parr Hall
21.03. GB-Sheffield - O2 Academy
22.03. GB-Pwllheli - Hard Rock Hell AOR Festival
24.03. GB-Southampton - The Brook
27.03. SE-Malmö - KB
28.03. SE-Borlänge - Liljan
29.03. SE-Gothenburg - Sticky Fingers
30.03. SE-Jönköping - Denim & Leather at APT
01.04. DK-Kolding - Godset
02.04. D-Buchholz - Empore
04.04. D-Kiel - Räucherei
05.04. D-Dresden - Tante Ju
06.04. D-Erfurt - Gewerkschaftshaus
07.04. D-Berlin - K17
23.05. D-Siegburg - Kubana
24.05. NL-Apeldoorn - Gigant
25.05. D-Dortmund - Musiktheater Piano
26.05. D-Bremen - Meisenfrei
28.05. SE/FI - Stockholm/Helsinki - Silja Rock Cruise
29.05. FI-Helsinki - Nosturi
30.05. RUS-St. Petersburg - Jagger
31.05. RUS-Moscow - Izvestya Hall
02.06. BY-Minsk - BelGosMuz Theatre
03.06. UA-Kiev - Club Yunost
04.06. UA-Kharkov - National Theatre of Opera & Ballet
08.06. D-Mannheim - Alte Seilerei
WebLink: www.ufo-music.info.
NEW REVIEWS ADDED: Reviews have been updated with the verdict in for albums by: Magnum, W.E.T., House Of Lords, Within Temptation, Heart, Axel Rudi Pell, Daryl Braithwaite, Johnny Lima, Fate, Linda & The Punch, Berggren Kerslake Band and EZ Livin. Check them out now.
MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the second part of the complete Billboard Rock Chart from 1981. MRX Info.
Thursday, March 13, 2014
MAXX EXPLOSION DEBUT NEW VIDEO: Maxx Explosion (Kivel Records) released their debut album "Forever" at MRF3 in Chicago this past Oct. Where their brief set won over listeners and fans with their brand of guitar driven rock. Currently on tour as House Of Lords (Frontiers) opening act, the band will be hitting a bunch of stops in Europe between March and April in support. A package show that should not be missed.
Right before the band left for Europe, they filmed their third video, for the track "Can't Help Falling In Love". See the band live at MRF4 this October.
SAMMY HAGAR LAUNCHES PERSONAL JESUS VIDEO: Sammy Hagar has released a video for 'Personal Jesus', a track featured on his Sammy Hagar & Friends album. 'Personal Jesus' features Sammy and his friends Neal Schon (Journey), Michael Anthony (Chickenfoot, Ex-Van Halen) and Chad Smith (Chickenfoot, Red Hot Chili Peppers) tear through a powerful rendition of this tune that stands apart from the Depeche Mode original and Johnny Cash cover. Check out the video following this link www.redrocker.com/video/personal-jesus
Sammy has also confirmed two shows for this summer:
June 14 - ROT Biker Rally at Travis County Expo Centre - Austin, TX
July 17 - Chippewa Valley Rock Fest - Cadott, WI
Hagar scored the 11th Billboard Top 25 album of his career last October when Sammy Hagar & Friends, debuted at #23 on the US Billboard 200. The album marks the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer's highest charting solo album in 18 years, since 1997's Marching To Mars. Sammy Hagar & Friends also scored the #7 Rock Album and #5 Independent Album release for Frontiers Records.
INTRODUCING VHF: VHF is a new band featuring legendary bassist Tony Franklin (The Firm, Blue Murder), guitarist Joel Hoekstra (Night Ranger, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Rock Of Ages) and drummer Todd Vinny Vinciguerra. The band's predominantly instrumental EP, Very High Frequency, is being mixed and mastered by Tommy Kessler (Blondie).
A band description reads: "Taken from the blueprint set by Miles Davis' ground breaking record Kind Of Blue, VHF starts with drummer Todd Vinny Vinciguerra setting the initial tone of the song, The song arrangement is made on drums, then passed along to legendary bassist Tony Franklin for chord progression and underlying groove. Once a groove is established, the rhythm tracks are set in place for guitar virtuoso Joel Hoekstra's independent interpretation. The music is created from the bottom up, that is the drums are the creative force behind the band. The final piece contains parts by each musician uniquely composed, completely independent of each other, and done with complete artistic freedom by each musician. The sound of the band varies from piece to piece, but it is a combination of ethereal trippy sounds and driving rhythms, enticing the listener to create a picture or movie to play out in their mind."
Watch for it this spring and check out a teaser video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xaGBziSzB3g&feature=youtu.be.
EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT TO RELEASE DEEP PURPLE LIVE IN CALIFORNIA 74:
New York, NY (March 12, 2014)In honor of the 40th Anniversary of the historic California Jam Festival, Eagle Rock Entertainment will release Deep Purple Live in California 74 for the first time on CD and Digital Audio on April 1. [MSRP $13.98]
By the mid-seventies, Deep Purple was one of the biggest selling rock acts in America, and Live In California 74 demonstrates exactly why. Taking place at the end of their 28-date tour promoting Burn, the CD showcases the band performing before 200,000 people as the headliner of the Cal Jam Festival. Closing their trek with a triumphant climax, the potent line-up of Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), David Coverdale (vocals), Glenn Hughes (bass), Jon Lord (keyboards), and Ian Paice (drums) pummel through an explosive set of songs from Burn, as well as classics like "Space Truckin'" and "Smoke On The Water."
40 years later, this set still resonates as a concert for the ages. Previously released on DVD in 2006, the Live In California 74 album is an absolutely must-have for any Deep Purple fan's collection.
Track Listing: 1.) Burn 2.) Might Just Take Your Life 3.) Lay Down, Stay Down 4.) Mistreated 5.) Smoke On The Water 6.) You Fool No One 7.) Space Truckin'.
30 CLASSIC SHAKRA SONGS AND MORE...:
Swiss hard rockers Shakra have disclosed their latest plans of releasing a "Best Of" album, which will be titled "33 - The Best Of" and it set to arrive on May 9th. The double album includes 30 Shakra classics and 3 brand new songs.
THEOCRACY LOSE DRUMMER:
Georgia-based melodic metal band Theocracy regrets to announce the departure of longtime drummer Shawn Benson to pursue other interests. Continued work conflicts and scheduling issues simply made it impossible to move forward, so both parties amicably agreed that it was time for a change to be made. There are no hard feelings on either side, and the band wishes Shawn nothing but the best in the future. "To be honest, I'm pretty devastated about this, as I expected to be playing with Shawn for as long as we kept going,"ť says vocalist Matt Smith. "But he is moving into a different phase of his life and could no longer give the commitment it takes to be in a band, so ultimately this is the only solution for all parties involved. I'd like to personally thank Shawn for helping to bring three albums from my imagination to reality, and his contributions can never be overstated. He will always be a part of the Theocracy family."
In the interest of moving forward, Theocracy is beginning to look for candidates to fill the position. Interested parties can contact the band at theocracydrummersearch@gmail.com.
Theocracy recently returned from their third full tour of Europe and are currently working on new material. Their most recent album, As the World Bleeds, received rave reviews and landed on the Billboard Heatseeker Chart in the U.S. upon release. As the World Bleeds is the band's third album, and their second release for Ulterium Records. For more information on Theocracy: www.theocracymusic.com / www.facebook.com/theocracyband.
BLUE COW KENT PREVIEW UPCOMING ALBUM:
Phantom Cathedral is the upcoming concept album from the Swedish melodic rock band Blue Cow Kent, to be released in 2014. The album tells the story about soldier Bynes Hunteera and the battle against his faithless alter ego Lucas Black, a dark childhood that keeps haunting him in the shape of circus director Uncle Ben. The clown eraser is coming. The first single Alias Lincoln Bravo was released in 2013, a song that can be described as an AOR-ish version of Saga. Now the band release their new song Thunder Is Coming from Phantom Cathedral, as a free download at: bluecowkent.bandcamp.com. "Thunder is coming is more of an epic hard rock song - we salute 70´s hard rock songs like Stargazer by Rainbow and Sails of Charon by Scorpions", says lead singer Kaj Roth. "The new album is not only AOR, you´ll get your share of heavy rock and even some progressive stuff."
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
TIMO TOLKKI'S AVALON TO RELEASE SOPHOMORE ALBUM IN MAY ON FRONTIERS: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of Timo Tolkki's Avalon sophomore album, "Angels of the Apocalypse" on May 16 in Europe and May 20 in North America.
Following the release of the debut album "The Land of New Hope", the "Metal Opera" was met with critical and fan acclaim, entering the national album charts in seven European countries, including a top 10 entry in Tolkki's home country, Finland. In August 2013, Tolkki flew to Greece to seek the right inspiration for the follow-up album and upon his return he managed to develop a sound that is even more grandiose and symphonic and yet heavier and darker in direction as compared to the debut album. "In August 2012 I planned to release a Metal Opera that had to be a trilogy. I am following a specific storyboard in a musical format and this time the musical direction is heavier and darker than the previous Avalon" says Tolkki. "This was deliberate since the Apocalyptic scenes described in the lyrics demanded that".
As for the players on the album, Tolkki finally managed to reunite the legendary Stratovarius "Dreamspace" lineup, calling Antti Ikonen and Tuomo Lassila to play keyboards and drums respectively. "It was really nice and brought good vibes and freshness to the album," tells Timo. "Definitely the right move."
The amazing cast of vocalists appearing this time includes Nightwish singer Floor Jansen – who takes care of the lead vocals on the first single "Design The Century" – along with Simone Simons (Epica), Fabio Lione (Rhapsody Of Fire), David DeFeis (Virgin Steele), Zachary Stevens (ex-Savatage, Circle II Circle), plus Elize Ryd (Amaranthe) - who appears again after contributing to the first album - and the stunning Chilean singer Caterina Nix, who is working on her debut album which is also produced by Tolkki. "Some songs were written with a specific singer in mind, while for some others I decided based on the knowledge that I had on how he or she would perform. I am particularly happy of how this record sounds especially two songs You'll Bleed Forever and the 10 minute title track are among my favourite ever", says Tolkki.
Once again the stunning artwork is provided by the French artist Stanis W. Decker and the first pressing of the physical edition will be available in a glossy digipak.
"Angels of the Apocalypse" final tracklisting: 1. Song For Eden 2. Jerusalem Is Falling 3. Design The Century 4. Rise Of The 4th Reich 5. Stargate Atlantis 6. You'll Bleed Forever 7. The Paradise Lost 8. Neon Sirens 9. High Above Of Me 10. Angels Of The Apocalypse 11. Garden Of Eden.
The first single "Design The Century" (featuring Nightwish singer Floor Jansen) will be released digitally worldwide on April 7. You can enjoy a 20 second snippet from the album at this link: youtu.be/jIyw90HPjT4.
Weblinks: www.avalonopera.com / www.frontiers.it.
Musicians: Timo Tolkki: guitars, bass and keyboards; Tuomo Lassila: drums; Antti Ikonen: keyboards; Nicholas Jeudy: orchestration; Floor Jansen, Simone Simons, Fabio Lione, David DeFeis, Zachary Stevens, Elize Ryd, Caterina Nix: vocals. Produced by Timo Tolkki.
xx
PAUL STANLEY TALKS TO BILLBOARD:
A very good read over at Billboard.com - a Q&A with Kiss frontman Paul Stanley:
In April, Stanley embarks on a book tour for his memoir "Face the Music: A Life Exposed"… The rocker talks why he finally put his life on paper, the inaccuracies of Gene Simmons' own book, and what actually went down with the Rock Hall of Fame.
Few bands know how to celebrate better than Kiss; it coined the concept "rock and roll all night and party every day," after all. And this is a time of celebration for the group, with this year marking the 40th anniversary of its first two albums, the launch of the Arena Football League's L.A. Kiss and its upcoming Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (though not without drama; read on) on April 10 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Best of all for frontman Paul Stanley is the April 8 publication of his autobiography "Face the Music: A Life Exposed," a revealing memoir in which he writes frankly about the travails of his youth and the triumphs and tribulations of both Kiss and his personal life.
Stanley lights out on a six-city book tour that begins April 7 at the Tribeca Barnes & Noble in New York with subsequent stops at the Barnes & Noble in Staten Island (April 8); Bookends in Ridgewood, N.J. (April 9); Barnes & Noble at The Grove in Los Angeles (April 16); Warwick's in La Jolla, Calif. (April 17); and the San Francisco Jewish Community Center on April 25. With all that going on, it's not surprising our conversation with the Starman was wide-ranging and characteristically forthright.
Full Article: www.billboard.com/articles/news/5930394/paul-stanley-kiss-interview-rock-hall-fame-autobiography-tour-album
Meanwhile - get set for a North American summer tour package featuring Kiss, Def Leppard and Night Ranger!
The story of their pivotal album, Infinity, released in 1978. Journey had won a loyal muso following with their post-Mahavishnu fusioneering, but world domination would not hover within their grasp until they found the perfect lead singer to turn their improvisations into anthems. Enter one Steve Perry…
Plus! On the road with Journey in Europe in 1979. Including Diamonds a 15-track CD featuring a glittering collection of melodic rock gems. Included in our 24-carat stash: Foreigner, Vandenberg's Moonkings, Stan Bush, Heart, Vanity Riots, Ajenda, Nashville Pussy, Drought…
Also featured in this issue:
• Heart - Ann Wilson on home movies, inventing a brand new way of rocking – and making Robert Plant cry.
• TNT - After surviving bereavement and thyroid cancer, frontman Tony Harnell is ready to re-ignite his career with the Norwegian rockers.
• A To Z Of Scandinavian AOR - Let us take you on a guided tour of Scandinavia's rock history and glam/sleaze/AOR future…
• Starship - Mickey Thomas returns with a fine new album and plans to bring his new-look combo to the UK.
• Foreigner - It's 1977, and with disco at its height, and the punk and new wave hordes baying at the gates, it's not a great time for rock. But it's the perfect time for Foreigner to swoop in.
• Kingdom Come - This is the story of their stairway to rock'n'roll heaven…
• Giuffria - After Angel went their separate ways, keyboard wizard Gregg Giuffria was free to indulge his grand melodic visions. But then the label began to interfere…
• Missing Persons - Returning with a new album, Dale Bozzio tells all about Frank Zappa, stardom and her painful split from husband/bandmate Terry.
• Boston - Tom Scholz looks back on the hits that made him a legend, as well as looking towards the future.
Plus! Interviewed: H.E.A.T., House Of Lords, The Treatment, Jessica Wolff, L.R.S., Vanity Blvd, Skyscraper, Space Elevator, United Nations, Linda & The Punch, Trillion, Frédéric Slama, Michael Des Barres, Chris Laney.
WAMI LAUNCH WILD WOMAN SINGLE: WAMI, a new exciting project will see the light of day in May. The album entitled "Kill the King" will give a new meaning to hard'n'heavy music and today you can check the first single promoting this release. "Wild Woman (You Oughta Know)" is available on Metal Mind Productions' official YouTube channel: http://youtu.be/VDgJocsYuh4. You can also preview and purchase this track on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/pl/album/wild-woman-you-oughta-know/id827782750.
The names associated with the project are true legends on the hard rock scene: on the vocals - Doogie White (Rainbow, Michael Schenker, Yngwie Malmsteen), on the drums - Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell, DIO), on the bass - Marco Mendoza (Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake), who join forces with the 16-year-old Polish guitarist Iggy Gwadera, who made his debut 2 years ago as the guitarist of Anti Tank Nun.
The idea to record an album together was born after Thin Lizzy's concert in Poland. The bassist Marco Mendoza, delighted with the young guitarist Iggy, who supported Thin Lizzy with his band Anti Tank Nun, suggested that they record some music together. This first idea, which was maturing for the next dozen-odd months, eventually evolved into the project involving legendary musicians, who are currently recording a brand new album together with Iggy. The drummer Vinny Appice, renowned for playing in some of the best heavy metal bands of worldwide fame, as also the bassist Marco Mendoza have already finished recording bass and drum tracks in Los Angeles. In late November 2013, Doogie White confronted his vocal talent with Iggy's guitar technique during their recording sessions in Poland. Hard rock fans can well expect the results of these sessions to be truly outstanding!
Official pages: www.facebook.com/WAMIband / twitter.com/WAMIBand.
MELODIC BRIEFS: Don Felder--former guitarist of the Eagles, New York Times best-selling author and four-time Grammy® Award winner will re-release his critically acclaimed solo album on March 25 on his Top Ten Inc. label via INGrooves Music Group. Originally released October 9, 2012, Road To Forever: Extended Edition will include four additional songs: "Can't Stop Now," "Southern Bound," "She Runs Free" and "Sensuality." The album's latest single, "You Don't Have Me," will be serviced to radio in April.
A lyric video for Over, the first single from Robert Valdes' Return of the Rock album can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1E9SiYF0cc.
JEFF KOLLMAN AUDIO AND LIVE UPDATE:
March 11, 2014 - Continuing his recent digital output, acclaimed L.A.-based guitarist Jeff Kollman (Bombastic Meatbats, Cosmosquad, Asia Feat. John Payne, Glenn Hughes) has announced the release of two new singles, "In The Hills of Granada" and "Another Rainy Saturday", which will be available March 17 via iTunes and other outlets. Video of warm-up runs for both songs are posted on the Jeff Kollman YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/guitarscreams.
States Kollman: "So, after living in Southern California for more than 15 years already, I'm finally getting around to naming a song after the neighborhood I've been living in all this time. Go figure! "In the Hills of Granada" is an acoustic blues track inspired by the old school finger-style blues players. You could say it's a bit dark and ominous sounding, amplified by the baritone tuning I'm using on this one. "Another Rainy Saturday" is a solo acoustic piece with a pretty, melancholy sort of vibe. Funny enough, it only rained like two major downpours in six months in L.A. but it was enough to inspire a song."
On the live front, Kollman has a packed schedule of local, national and international shows coming up, gigging with his progressive trio, Cosmosquad, Chad Smith (of Red Hot Chili Peppers fame) led all-stars, the Bombastic Meatbats, blues rockers Bleeding Harp, jazz contemporaries Tizer, and fellow Asia Feat. John Payne member Erik Norlander's The Galactic Collective, before heading out on a tour of Japan with vocalist Eikichi Yazawa in November and December.
The full JK live itinerary reads as follows:
Mar. 15 - Ireland's 32 - Van Nuys, CA w/ Bleeding Harp
Mar. 23 - Baked Potato - Studio City, CA w/ Bleeding Harp
Mar. 29 - Capetown Jazz Fest - Capetown, South Africa w/ Tizer
Apr. 11 - Winchester Music Hall - Lakewood, OH w/ Erik Norlander
Apr. 13 - NJProghouse - Roxy & Duke's Roadhouse - Dunellen, NJ w/ Erik Norlander
Apr. 19 - Baked Potato - Studio City, CA w/ Cosmosquad
Apr. 25 - Baked Potato - Studio City, CA w/ Bombastic Meatbats
Apr. 26 - Alva's - San Pedro, CA w/ Cosmosquad
May 09 - Cherokee Arts Center - Canton, GA w/ Erik Norlander
May 25 - Jacksonville Jazz Fest - Jacksonville, FL w/ Tizer
May 29 - Jazz Under The Stars, Aliante Casino - Las Vegas, NV w/ Tizer
May 29 - Ireland's 32 - Van Nuys, CA w/ Bleeding Harp
May 30 - Spaghettini - Seal Beach, CA w/ Tizer
Jun. 26 - Levitt Pavilion - Pasadena, CA w/ Tizer
Jun. 27 - Ireland's 32 - Van Nuys, CA w/ Bleeding Harp
July 12 - Lake Mission Viejo Park - Mission Viejo, CA w/ Bleeding Harp
Sep. 26 - Brea Jazz Fest - Brea, CA w/ Tizer
Kollman recently unveiled his second signature guitar pedal, The Bombastortion, developed in conjunction with noted tone guru Tim Jauernig, designer of the Gristle King and the Luxury Drive, among others. A demonstration video is posted on Kollman's YouTube channel at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=B48gdZfmHW0; the pedal can be ordered directly via www.jeffkollman.com/merch.htm.
FAITHSEDGE DEBUT NEW VIDEO: Faithsedge returns this year with a new album with a 2 minute preview of the track / video for "Comes Crashing Down" featuring singer Giancarlo Floridia, former Dokken lead guitarist Alex De Rosso, Tony "AJ" Morra (Van Zant) on drums and keyboardist Eric Ragno (Trixter/Fergie Fredrickson). The album also was produced by Fabrizio Grossi who also played bass (Steve Vai / Steve Lukather) and mastered buy Pete Doell (Universal mastering) and also features other melodic rock keys man Alessandro Del Vechhio (Hardline). Further details on release date worldwide will be announced soon!
The track Comes Crashing Down is a blend of hard rock and progressive and running a total of 6 minutes long. Heres a preview! www.youtube.com/watch?v=LscFWI1sdGs&feature=youtu.be
BAD COMPANY CELEBRATE DESOLATION ANGELS:
Dallas, TX - March 11, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the 35th anniversary of Bad Company's 1979 comeback album Desolation Angels.
With their self-titled debut album five years earlier, Bad Company had become one of the essential bands of the '70s, a super-group made up of ex-Mott the Hoople guitarist Mick Ralphs, King Crimson bass player Boz Burrell, and Free alumni singer/songwriter Paul Rodgers and drummer Simon Kirke. But by 1977 the endless tours had taken their toll, and the band's disappointing Burnin' Sky album proved to be a career wake-up call. After a two year hiatus Bad Company re-emerged in 1979 with the album Desolation Angels and their strongest batch of songs since their debut, including the popular "Rock'n'Roll Fantasy", "Oh Atlanta" and "Gone, Gone, Gone". Paul Rodgers shares with InTheStudio host Redbeard what impact their time off had on the success of Desolation Angels. "We took our time and made a good album. Even the cover reflects care and attention to detail and it all counts.... All of the guys in Bad Company were professional musicians who loved what they did. We wanted, at all times, to make a great album and I think (Desolation Angels) is the result of being rested and it reflects in the freshness of the feel."
Bad Company /InTheStudio interview is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/bad-company-desolation-angels-35th-anniversary-paul-rodgersmick-ralphssimon-kirke
ANDRZEJ CITOWICZ EXPERIENCE - INTERNATIONAL MUSIC PROJECT:
The Andrzej Citowicz Experience - International Music Project (Egypt, Germany and Poland) just released on YouTube lyrics video to their single "The One". The single promotes their upcoming EP "Jack Of Hearts". On April 1st "The One" will be available on several platforms (iTunes, Spotify, Amazon). Link to video on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhXu-qKVsw8.
The Andrzej Citowicz Experience are: Andrzej Citowicz-guitars; Oliver Monsieur-vocals; Dirk Arnicke- keys / drums; Patryk Szymanski-bass; Producer: Ancient Dreamland / Dirk Arnicke more info: www.facebook.com/andrzejcitowicz / www.citowicz.net.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS WITH HIRAX, FREEDOM CALL, LOVER UNDER COVER AND MONTE PITTMAN: Rich Davenport's Rock Show this week features exclusive interviews with Katon W DePena of Hirax, Chris Bay of Freedom Call, Monte Pittman (ex Prong) and Mikael Carlsson of Lover Under Cover and is available now for streaming at this link: www.mixcloud.com/richdav1/rich-davenports-rock-show-hirax-freedom-call-monte-pittman-lover-under-cover-interviews/
In the first hour, Chris Bay of Power Metal masters Freedom Call talks about the writing and recording of band's new album "Beyond", and the return of founder member Ilker Ersin. Chris also chooses 2 songs from "Beyond". Also in part 1, Mikael Carlsson of Melodic Hard Rockers Lover Under Cover discusses the band's new album "Into The Night", and selects tracks from the record.
Part 2 kicks into high gear with legendary Thrashers Hirax, with frontman Katon W DePena giving the lowdown on their vicious new album "Immortal Legacy". Katon talks about the guest guitarists on the album (including Rocky George, ex Suicidal Tendencies, and Jim Durkin of Dark Angel). The show rounds off with a chat the man who taught Madonna to play the Pantera riff she's been seen playing in a popular Youtube clip, Monte Pittman, formerly of Prong, and also Madonna's guitarist for many years. Monte's new album "The Power of Three" sees him working with legendary Metallica producer Flemming Rasmussen. Plus classic tracks and killer new cuts from Gary Moore, Alice Cooper, Gus G and Heart.
You can also listen on Sunday 9th March 15:00-17:00 GMT and Wednesday 12th March 22:00-00.00 GMT on www.totalrock.com.
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
UPCOMING FROM AOR HEAVEN IN APRIL: AOR Heaven's upcoming April 25 releases have been announced. They are Sunstrike and Alien. Read on -
Alien, one of Sweden's finest Melodic Rock band have released genre classics such as "Alien" (1988/89) and "Shiftin' Gear" (1990) including chart and platinum hits like "Only One Woman", "Tears Don't Put Out The Fire" and "Brave New Love". The original line-up was split up in 1989 and when reunited in 2010 a handful of festivals were booked to coincide with the return including performances at Sweden Rock Festival, Getaway Rock and Firefest a.o. The release of the brand new single "Ready To Fly" (Manora Rec) went down great with the fans and especially the response from the crowd at the Firefest. 2011 made the band really consider making this new album.
In 2013, the No Remorse/EMI CD re-issue (ltd 1000 copies) of the debut album "Alien" (s/t Scandinavian) reached no.1 in the Import Album Chart in Japan and was quickly sold out. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the debut EMI Music Sweden re-mastered and released the back catalogue digitally including some previously unreleased demos as bonus. To top it off the "Alien - 25th Anniversary" 2CD deluxe limited edition was put out and soon sold out as well. The re-release of the "Shiftin' Gear" CD (AOR Heaven) including four bonus tracks shed some light on the fact that the original line-up wrote and pre-produced a sophomore album, before disbanding in late 1989. Recordings of the new album started Aug 1st at Bohus Sound and continued throughout 2013, taking a break only to perform at the Firefest 10th Anniversary show.
Alien decided to add a song, "I'm a fighter", written back in the 80's by their L.A. co-writers Pam Barlow and Janet Morrison Minto, as an homage to their co-work on the debut album. The regained contact with Pam and Janet led to them writing lyrics for this album as well.
WebLinks: alientheband.com / facebook.com/alientheband.
Line-up: Jim Jidhed – vocals, Tony Borg – guitars, Jimmy Wandroph – keyboards, Ken Sandin – bass, Toby Tarrach - drums.
Track list: In Love We Trust; Unbroken; Love Will Lead Me Home; I Believe; Summer Of Love; What Goes Up; I'm A Fighter; Wildheart; Liar, Liar; Look At Us Know; Burning Heart; In Truth.
SunStrike: A glare in the road that can temporarily blind drivers. But SunStrike will blind you with catchy melodies and big choruses! The band was formed by guitarist Joachim Nordlund and the drummer Johan Lindstedt together with singer Christian Hedgren (Twilight Force, The Theander Expression) by the fall of 2012. You also find Joachim and Johan in the Swedish metal act Astral Doors. Right from the start the three guys had a very clear image in how the music should sound like: pure melodic hard rock was on the agenda! When only a handful of songs were written they felt that the songs needed the touch of a real keyboard player. Up until then Joachim had done the keyboard parts on one or two songs. Christian knew a guy that would be perfect for the job, and after a cup of coffee and a handshake Fredrik Plahn (Prey) joined the force. They all felt that this is far too good to be just a project and after a couple of weeks a second guitar player, Mats Gesar (Thalamus) and bass player Björn Lundqvist (Twilight Force) joined the band that now got the name SunStrike.
Two demo songs were posted on the band's facebook page in the summer of 2013, and immediately the word was out about this new melodic rock outfit from Sweden. Radio stations started to play those songs and a couple of record companies showed their interest in the band. The song-writing/recording continued through 2013 in Joachim's Big Turn Studio until they had 12 songs that were strong enough for the album "Rock your World". For the mixing and mastering process SunStrike chose Erik Mĺrtensson (Eclipse, W.E.T). Cover art and the booklet design was done by no one else but Carl-André Beckston (Monowasp).
WebLink: www.facebook.com/sunstrikeband
Track list: 1. Power of the Dreams, 2. Rock Your World, 3. Fireball, 4. Right Track, 5. Roll The Dice, 6. Rock It Out, 7. Never Let You Go, 8. Higher, 9. Scream And Shout, 10. Into The Light, 11. Edge Of Life, 12. Heat Of The Night.
Line-up: Christian Hedgren – Lead and background vocals, Joachim Nordlund – Guitars and background vocals, Johan Lindstedt – Drums and background vocals.
TESLA SIMPLIFY THINGS FOR NEXT OPUS:
Not sure where this was originally printed, but here I'm lifting from Blabbermouth:
California rockers Tesla last month entered the studio to record eight or nine new songs, to be included on the band's forthcoming album. Says TESLA guitarist Frank Hannon: "I must say that this new Tesla album is really gonna be awesome. We went in more prepared with the songs and ideas way more than 'Forevermore', and the style is pure Tesla back to our roots. The band is working and producing it as we did 'Into The Now'... with help from the legendary Tom Zutaut, who helped us make our best albums.
"The title of the new album is gonna be 'Simplicity' and I truly believe you guys are gonna love it! The opening track is called 'MP3' and starts off with an opus intro that orchestrates into a heavy slow groove with lyrics about technology and how we miss simplicity, vinyl albums, family values... and has a heavy-ass riff! Then we segue into a rock and roll song called 'Ricochet' that talks about Uncle Ted...Can't wait to play this stuff live!"
KEEP CALM ASK ALICE:
New York, NY (March 10, 2014)--Banger Films, in association with Eagle Rock Entertainment, presents Alice Cooper in Super Duper Alice Cooper, the brand new official Alice Cooper documentary distributed by SpectiCast. Super Duper Alice Cooper will premiere at the 2014 Tribeca Film Festival and will hit theaters nationwide beginning May 30, 2014. The film is the first ever 'doc opera' – a dizzying blend of documentary archive footage, animation and rock opera that will cement forever the legend of Alice Cooper.
In order to make Super Duper Alice Cooper as interactive for his devoted fans as he possibly can, Alice Cooper is putting together a special pre-recorded "Keep Calm & Go Ask Alice" Q&A that will run following each theatrical screening. In order for Alice to give some wild answers, he'll require some burning questions from fans, so he's inviting YOU to ask him anything now via www.SuperDuperAliceCooper.com (click the "Keep Calm & Go Ask Alice" graphic). Once the submission period is closed, Alice will personally handpick select questions and answer them via video, serving as the aforementioned Q&A. So, do you want your question to be answered in the pre-recorded Alice Cooper Q&A running after each and every screening in the U.S.? Of course you do! Submit your questions now via www.SuperDuperAliceCooper.com.
Monday, March 10, 2014
SECOND VIDEO FROM PRETTY MAIDS LAUNCHED:
After celebrating their 30th Anniversary as a band and the release of their latest monumental album "Motherland", the Danish melodic hard rockers Pretty Maids are serving the fans with an album which includes eight re-recorded classic songs from the 1995 - 2006 era, plus four brand new songs specially written for this record and a special bonus DVD including archive footage from the 80's, brand new interviews and plenty of cool material for the fans!
"There were two main reasons for us to do this Album," explains singer Ronnie Atkins. "First of all we wanted to keep the ball in spin and release some kind of an 'in between' album before the next 'real' studio album. Then we were curious to hear how some of the older songs would sound like with the band line up we have today and in the hands of our current producer Jacob Hansen. The original idea was actually to do a mix of both re-recorded, re-mixed, covers and new songs, but in the end decided to cut it down to what it is. We deliberately chose not to re-record some of the eighties and early nineties material, since it's some kind of 'sacred' both to ourselves as well as the fans."
The release of "Louder Than Ever" will be followed up by a three to four weeks tour in Europe in May 2014. On top the band will appear on the bill of several festivals during the summer plus there will be the traditional Christmas Ride.
Turn Up The Volume – Danish Dynamite Is… Louder Than Ever!
"Louder Than Ever" includes the following tracks: CD: Deranged (New Song); Playing God; Psycho Time Bomb Planet Earth; My Soul To Take (New Song); He Who Never Lived; Virtual Brutality; Tortured Spirit; With These Eyes; Nuclear Boomerang (New Song); Snakes In Eden; Wake Up To The Real World; A Heart Without A Home (New Song). DVD: A Retrospective of the "Motherland" 2013 World Tour. Includes Archive footage from early stages of the band's career, interviews, backstage, Studio Footage and the usual freakiness.
Enjoy a "Louder Than Ever" presentation following this YouTube link: youtu.be/404ydIeqUHY.
Pretty Maids:Ronnie Atkins: Vocals; Ken Hammer: Guitar; Rene Shades: Bass; Allan Tchicaja: Drums; Morten Sandager: Keyboards. Produced by Jacob Hansen.
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UNRULY CHILD RETURN: Unruly Child sprung back to life over the weekend with a new website and new social media presence on Facebook. Along with the launch of these new pages is news of a new independent release. The 7 track release is titled Down The Rabbit Hole and is in fact "Side One" of the new 2014 album, with "Side Two" due later in the year.
Currently the band plan to make the songs available on CD via CDBaby and Digitally via iTunes in 3-6 weeks time.
The band states: "We've been diligently working at getting our new album together over the last 14 months. It started with writing sessions in January of 2013 and has been picking up steam throughout the later part of that year. Of course the three of us have our other commitments and schedules, so we can only get creative as time allows - and we tend to be perfectionists at times. Now we're finally nearing completion of the first half (seven songs) from our newest opus. We've decided to release it one "side" at a time, so we could get it out there sooner, rather than later."
Fans can check out some audio clips through the UC Soundcloud link on the home page of their newly designed website at: www.unrulychild.net.
"Down The Rabbit Hole" features seven new songs: This Is Who I Am, Down The Rabbit Hole, She Can't See Me, Breaking Hearts, Kindred, For All We Know, Say I Love You.
TYKETTO PREPARE DOCUMENTARY LAUNCH:
After the successful 2012 worldwide release of Dig In Deep (Frontiers Records) and live appearances at Download Festival, Firefest, Hard Rock Hell, Sweden Rock and Hard In Rio, Tyketto's 25th anniversary DVD, "Documentally Yours" goes on sale Thursday, March 6th, 2014 at 9:00pm EST.
The three hour DVD will take you into the band's homes and into the recording studio while they track their classic AOR release, Don't Come Easy. See live footage from stages around the world and most importantly, from the infamously notorious New York music scene of the mid and late 80's.
Doucmentally Yours Promotional video:
The package is selling for $25.00 U.S. Dollars, which includes shipping and handling to anywhere in the world via Paypal. Log onto www.Paypal.com and send your order to Scott107Pro@aol.com.
The launch of the DVD is just the beginning for Tyketto in 2014. In addition to co-headlining this year's "Hard Rock Hell" festival (Wales), playing on the sold out "Monsters of Rock" cruise (Florida/Bahamas) and headlining the "Heat Festival" (Germany), Tyketto will be performing on England's 2014 "Download Festival" stage along with Avenged Sevenfold, Rob Zombie, Black Label Society And Tesla.
"Like" The Tyketto Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/Tyketto-The-Official/272013509510636 and visit our website at www.Tyketto.de / en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyketto.
BALTIMOORE ARE BACK FOR MORE: "Musically, I think it's where this band should be – loud guitars along with Hammond organ and a vibrant rhythm section" — Björn Lodin
BLP Music is pleased to announce the 12th album from Swedish hard rock outfit Baltimoore entitled Back For More is out now and available on all leading digital music platforms. Home to 10 new tracks and led as always by enigmatic vocalist Björn Lodin, "Back For More" sees the band deliver a fresh take on the Baltimoore sound for 2014 with some new and old faces in the current line-up.
On his fellow musicians Lodin comments, "My main man for this release is guitar player Mats Attaque. He was actually in a band with me right before I started Baltimoore (Ready Steady). Several of the songs from the first album we also played in that band. Teaming up with him again has been truly inspiring… He's a great guitar player and singer - a great musician! We grew up in the same area and share a lot of the same rhythm interpretation, coming from the folk music around these parts of Sweden. Drummer Klas Anderhell, long time session player and The Guy you call when you need to get the job done. Having him joining us is a treat. Weine Johansson (bass) and Örjan Fernkvist (organ) are returning and nothing pleases me more. I'm proud of this band!" Song writing for the album originally began back in 2011 with some ideas being considered for what would have been Lodin's third release with Hungarian rock outfit Hard.
"It originally started out as a new Hard album, but as the songs developed I knew this had to be for Baltimoore. It's been a slow process since starting in October 2011. I had the songs written before I got the final line-up together and as players came along, putting their skills and input to them, it all fell into place. I just ignite and feed off others... We've been recording on and off since early 2012 but the album gained momentum in late 2013 and here we are…finished". On the album's style Bjorn continues, "Musically, I think it's where this band should be – loud guitars along with Hammond organ and a vibrant rhythm section. Lyrically, I don't know… I bitch, bark and moan about whatever comes to mind, like always. However, there's an on-going story in our songs… I seem to end up in same 'place' over and over… That's something I want to take further and explore with visual stuff eventually".
"Back For More" features the following tracks. 01 Cry Out For Innocence. 02. Don't Say No. 03. Until The End Of The Line. 04. Are You On To Me? 05. Break Into Something New. 06. Means To An End. 07. Gun Of Doom. 08. Sunshine In The Rain. 09. Say It Like It Is . 10. Back For More.
An album sampler can be heard at www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ul3QkQg-n8 Hear online via iTunes - itunes.apple.com/album/back-for-more/id828891875 and CDBaby - www.cdbaby.com/cd/baltimoore.
Baltimoore Official Website - www.baltimoore.net.
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Friday, March 07, 2014
Just over 200 days until MelodicRockFest 4 in Chicago - October 3-5, 2014!
The line-up features so many USA exclusive and debut appearances - you simply will not find another rock festival in North America with a line up like this - H.E.A.T, L.R.S., The Poodles, Work Of Art, Stan Bush, Mitch Malloy, Guardian, Heaven's Edge, Paul Laine and so many more.
There will be no MRF in 2015, so come along to enjoy this party. Limited VIP left, including just a couple Platinum and Gold. Green VIP are sold out. VIP and regular ticket details and purchase links at www.melodicrockfest.com.
One of the great acts that will be part of MRF4 is once again, the awesome Mecca. I'm very excited to announce the live line-up for Mecca+ at MRF4:
Shannon Forrest - Drums; David Hungate - Bass; David Browning - Keys; Joe Vana - Lead Vocals; Jimi Jamison - Lead Vocals; Joey Vana - Guitars; Special Guest - Guitar; Special Guest - Lead Vocals. Joe Vana states: "We will be doing Mecca I, II & III tracks and then some Jimi Jamison and a tune or two by our other Special Special guests...I am beyond honored to have the Mecca I rhythm section of Shannon Forrest and David Hungate together as a rhythm section and back in the fold!!! They have not played live together since they were the rhythm section for the Legendary Toto Musician's Hall of Fame performance.
And to add - the line-up for the in-the-works Mecca III album Audiophile can also be announced! It is: Shannon Forrest - Drums; David Hungate - Bass; David Browning - Keys; Tim Akers - Keys; Joe Vana - Lead Vocals; Jimi Jamison - Lead Vocals; Joey Vana - Guitars.
Joe Vana continues: "We will also have a few VERY special guests playing on Mecca III as well...and will let Andrew know as they do their parts....one is our buddy and Mecca II alum Eric Ragno who busted his tail for MRF3, we were not going to do the record without him!!
The whole album is being recorded OLD school to 2" tape....all full takes only....no edits, and not an auto tune fest....if the vibe is there and it's out a bit...all cool!!!!....no guitar plug ins....no drum samples....no beat detective and is designed as a true Audiophile album...hence the title...it is the album I have always dreamed of....and we are pulling out all the stops...Produced by Shannon Forrest in Nashville...Here is a small snippet as we recorded in Nashville..."
Web: www.facebook.com/meccatheband
INTRODUCING DIESEL!: Diesel: Into The Fire - Coming soon on Escape Music Robert Hart: Lead Vocals; Jim Kirkpatrick: All Guitars (FM); Jim Copley: Drums; Pat Davey: Bass; Adam Wakeman: All Keyboards special guest.
Produced by: Jim Kirkpatrick and Robert Hart. Mixed and Mastered by: Tommy Hansen.
TOTO AND EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCE APRIL 29 RELEASE OF 35TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR - LIVE IN POLAND:
New York (March 6, 2014) --- Toto and Eagle Rock Entertainment have announced a April 29th release date for the band's 35th Anniversary Tour - Live In Poland. The title will be available in configurations that include 2CD, DVD, Blu-ray, and a deluxe edition featuring all formats with a 60-page book (Pre-book Order Date April 4, MSRP $19.98 Blu-ray, $14.98 DVD, $17.98 2CD, $79.98 Deluxe Edition).
Filmed on June 25, 2013 in Lodz, Poland, the offering captures the band in the midst of a standing-room-only European tour. The two-hour plus performance features Toto's hit stocked repertoire alongside other favorites. The complete track listing is: Intro, Medley: "On The Run" / "Child's Anthem" / "Goodbye Eleanor," "Goin' Home," "Hydra," "St. George And The Dragon," "I'll Be Over You," "It's A Feeling," "Rosanna," "Wings Of Time," "Falling In Between," "I Won't Hold You Back," "Pamela," "99," "The Muse," "White Sister," "Better World," "Africa," "How Many Times," "Stop Loving You," "Hold The Line," "Home Of The Brave." The set also includes behind-the-scenes bonus content. Eagle Rock Entertainment has premiered the band's performance of "Hold The Line" which can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibxxkNRumN4.
The 35th Anniversary Tour - Live In Poland release captures Toto's European tour that hit 29 cities staging successful concerts Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland. Toto World Tour 2013 featured Luke, David Paich, Steve Porcaro on keyboards, and singer Joseph Williams, who sang the hits "Pamela" and "Stop Loving You" on the worldwide platinum release The Seventh One (1988). Williams is also featured on the platinum certified Fahrenheit (1986), Toto XX (1998), the track "Bottom of Your Soul" on Falling In Between (2006), and the multi-platinum release Past to Present 1977-1990 issued in 1990.
Toto has revealed plans for 2014 that deliver what fans have been waiting years for. The band will record a new studio album planned for release in 2015, their first since Falling In Between (2006). Keyboardist and founding member David Paich recently shared, "The repertoire is coming together so naturally it is as though we never took a break from creating as Toto in the studio. For the fans who have been waiting patiently and continually showing the band support and love over the last decade or so, this one's for you. Collectively we can't wait to share these recordings with The World."
This April, they return to Japan for a seven show headlining sold-out arena tour that takes them through Nagoya, Osaka, Tokyo, Sendai and Sopporo. In August and September, Toto will hit the road as co-headliners with Michael McDonald, for their most comprehensive North American tour in years.
Few ensembles in the history of recorded music have individually or collectively had a larger imprint on pop culture than the members of Toto. As individuals, the band members can be heard on an astonishing 5000 albums that together amass a sales history of a HALF A BILLION albums. Amongst these recordings, NARAS applauded the performances with more than 200 Grammy nominations. With over 35 years together and thousands of credits and accolades to their names, Toto remains one of the top selling tour and recording acts in the world. They are the benchmark by which many artists base their sound and production, and they continue to transcend the standards set by the entire music community, being simply synonymous with musical credibility.
Band members have been South Park characters, while recently Jimmy Fallon and Justin Timberlake offered a light-hearted homage via a comedy sketch around the band's hit "Africa." They are pop culture, and are one of the few 70's bands that have endured the changing trends and styles, and more than 35 years in to a career enjoy a multi-generational fan base. Toto also continues to raise awareness for ALS, for their brother and friend, Mike Porcaro, who has been diagnosed with ALS, Lou Gehrig's Disease. The band commits energies towards fundraising for Police and Fire Departments of California and the Fallen Heroes initiative (www.fallenheroes.org), and help the United Nations in their humanitarian endeavors through music.
WebLink: www.totoofficial.com.
Further on the band's recording progress, CJ Vanston (co-producing the album along with the band) posted this message and photo on his Facebook page today: "Wow is all I can say. Second day at Capitol with Toto and Keith Carlock. We're really creating something special in my humble opinion, everybody is pushing each other for the BEST. Keith raised the bar a notch, just as Csaba Petocz did engineering. We're setting the controls for the center of the sun, nothing else will do, not for this band, this group of talent. Deep day."
BRAVE NEW MEAT LOAF ALBUM TAKING SHAPE: Meat Loaf has posted some album news on his website forum. From his comments we can deduce that the album will be called Braver Than We Are and will feature a "cover (sort of) of More by Sisters of Mercy.". Mr. Loaf also added "Jim (Steinman) is writing some new lyrics for it and it will rock..."
Further on Jim Steinman's involvement on the album, Meat Loaf added: "I am doing 8 other Jim songs...Plus 6 more songs!....Jim and I have been on line together for hours upon hours!! in the last 4 weeks!! The album is going to be great !"
MICHAEL BORMANN'S MAGIC BALLADS:
News from German vocalist Michael Bormann: "On the 25th of April 2014, Michael Bormann's long-awaited Best Of Ballads-album will be released. Love Is Magic is a fantastic mixture of new songs and well known stuff with a new make-up. More than one hour of pure emotions combined with full power and more surprises are waiting for you. In limited edition, from now on till the 1st of April 2014, you'll get the chance to pre-order a special package, including a signed CD and a T-Shirt."
Pre-order here www.michaelbormannpage.de.
EDEN'S CURSE - SYMPHONY OF SIN UK TOUR SELLING FAST:
The forthcoming Eden's Curse Symphony Of Sin UK Tour in May is selling very well indeed with several shows headed for sell outs, particularly for Glasgow, Bolton & Swansea. Fans are encouraged to snap up tickets NOW as national press adverts in Classic Rock Magazine, Metal Hammer, Powerplay Magazine and Fireworks Magazine are set to start at the end of the month drive interest. The dates are as follows:
19/05/14 - Ivory Blacks, Glasgow (w/ Stormzone, Estrella)
20/05/14 - The Railway, Bolton (w/ Fahran)
21/05/14 - Snooty Fox, Wakefield (w/ Fahran, Skin&Bone)
22/05/14 - Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton (w/ Tainted Nation, Aceldaman)
23/05/14 - Yardbirds, Grimsby (co headline w/ Absolva + Babylon Fire)
24/05/14 - Static, Swansea (w/ Tainted Nation, Mayhem Messiah)
25/05/14 - Underworld, London (w/ Tainted Nation, Dendera)
Tickets for all shows are now on sale and can be purchased online from: www.edenscurse.com/uktour.
Grab yours now to avoid disappointment!
SUPER DUPER ALICE COOPER - OFFICIAL DOCUMENTARY OF A ROCK 'N' ROLL ICON TO BE UNLEASHED:
Click Here to View Official Trailer: www.bit.ly/CoopDoc.
New York, NY (March 6, 2014)Eagle Rock Entertainment, in association with Banger Films, are proud to announce the world premiere of Super Duper Alice Cooper at the 2014 Tribeca Film Festival (TFF), presented by AT&T, where it will screen as part of their Spotlight section. Taking us through his life and career, Alice Cooper presents his story in the first ever "doc opera" film - a dizzying blend of documentary archive footage, animation, and rock opera. Super Duper Alice Cooper is the twisted tale of a teenage Dr. Jekyll whose rock n' roll Mr. Hyde almost kills him. It is the story of Vincent Furnier, a preacher's son who struck fear into the hearts of parents as Alice Cooper, the ultimate rock star of the bizarre. From the advent of Alice as front man for a group of Phoenix freaks in the 60's to the hazy decadence of celebrity in the 70s to his triumphant comeback as 80s glam metal godfather, we will watch as Alice and Vincent battle for each other's' souls. Alice's story is told not only by the man himself, but through exclusive interviews with members of the original Alice Cooper band, Elton John, Iggy Pop, John Lydon, and Dee Snider.
Super Duper Alice Cooper is the creation of Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn at Banger Films, producers of Iron Maiden: Flight 666 (2009 SXSW Audience Choice Winner) and Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage (2010 Grammy-nominated and Tribeca Audience Choice Winner), and much-lauded filmmaker Reginald Harkema, winner of the TIFF Special Jury Prize for his film Monkey Warfare.
The 13th edition of the Tribeca Film Festival will take place from April 16 to April 27 at locations around New York City. For more information on Super Duper Alice Cooper, please visit www.SuperDuperAliceCooper.com or like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/superduperalicecooper.
Alice Cooper needs no introduction. Still touring the world, with over 100 concerts scheduled in 2014, and hosting his internationally syndicated "Nights With Alice Cooper" radio show five nights a week for over a decade, Alice shows no sign of slowing down.
For more information on Alice Cooper, please visit: www.alicecooper.com / www.facebook.com/AliceCooper.
Banger Films is a multiple award-winning film and television production company based in Toronto. Banger's catalogue includes the smash-hit documentary Metal: A Headbanger's Journey (2006), SXSW Audience Award and Juno-winning Iron Maiden: Flight 666 (2009), Grammy-nominated and Tribeca Audience Award-winning Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage (2010), the biggest-ever heavy metal doc series Metal Evolution (2011), and the eagerly anticipated "doc opera" Super Duper Alice Cooper (2014). Currently, Banger is producing a number of film and TV projects including The Message, a double-feature doc on the history of hip-hop, and Rock Icons, a new music-bio series featuring exclusive, intimate portraits of the most legendary artists in the history of metal and rock.
Follow Banger Films at: www.facebook.com/BangerFilmsInc / vimeo.com/bangerfilms.
GUTHRIE GOVAN HEADS TO AUSTRALIA FOR CLINICS: Guthrie Govan: Masterclass Guitar Clinic - Australian National Tour July 2014
Saturday, July 19 - Adelaide International Guitar Festival
Monday, July 21- Hale School (John Inverarity Music & Drama Centre) Perth 7.00pm
Wednesday, July 23 - The Princess Theatre, Brisbane 7.00pm
Thursday, July 24 Wesley Mission Theatre, Sydney 7.00pm
Friday, July 25 - Claremont College Theatre, Hobart 7.00pm
Sunday, July 27 Gas Works Theatre, Melbourne 11.30am
NEW VIDEE FROM SHRED KING BATIO: M.A.C.E. Records has released the new music video from shred guitar king, Michael Angelo Batio. The new video for "8 Pillars Of Steel" features guest appearances by George Lynch (Dokken, Lynch Mob, KXM), Jeff Loomis (Conquering Dystopia, Nevermore), Dave Reffett (Shredding The Envelope), and other metal icons.
M.A.C.E Records has officially released the new Michael Angelo Batio music video ,"8 Pillars of Steel". The song was written by Batio and longtime friend, Marc McNally. The video features guest solos by music icons, George Lynch (Dokken, Lynch Mob, KXM), Elliott Dean Rubinson (Uli Jon Roth, Michael Schenker), Jeff Loomis (Conquering Dystopia, Nevermore), Craig Goldy (Dio), Dave Reffett (Shredding The Envelope), Andrea Martongelli (Arthemis), Rusty Cooley (Day Of Reckoning) and virtuoso drummer, Joe Babiak. Watch the incredible, star-studded video at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=QT_3xwqVmt0.
"8 Pillars Of Steel" is the first single from Batio's new album, Intermezzo, which features all new original music. It is filled with Michael's signature virtuoso guitar playing, mixed meters, great melodies, superb arrangements and world class production. The album features an amazing list of some of the best guitarists on the planet. This is the first album that Michael recorded using his new Dean signature MAB 7 Warrior,ť 7 string guitar. It is available for purchase on his website, itunes, amazon, and other major online retailers.
The complete list of guest guitarists on the album includes: George Lynch, Guthrie Govan (2 solos on the album,) Michael Romeo (Symphony X), Jeff Loomis, Craig Goldy, Dave Reffett, Chris Poland (ex-Megadeth, OHM), Rusty Cooley, Mike Lepond (Symphony X), Elliott Dean Rubinson, Joe Stump (Holy Hell), Andrea Martongelli, Alex Stornello, Bill Peck, Max Carlisle, Florent Atem, Annie Grunwald (Formless), Tobias Hurwitz, Joe Rose and more!
Track listing for Intermezzo: 1. Intermezzo 2. Kaleidoscope Images 3. Oceans of Time 4. I Pray the Lord 5. 8 Pillars of Steel (featuring Elliott Dean Rubinson on Bass with solos, in order by – Dave Reffett, Jeff Loomis, MAB, then RRusty Cooley, George Lynch, Andrea Martongelli and Craig Goldy) 6. The Possession – A Tone Poem 7. 5 Four Ever (featuring Alex Stornello from 2:34 to 3:07 and then Guthrie Govan from 3:22 to 4:08) 8. Juggernaut (featuring solos in order by MAB, Chris Poland, Dave Reffett, Annie Grunwald, Guthrie Govan, Mike Lepond and Michael Romeo 9. Overload Intro (featuring Florent Atem) 10. Overload (featuring solos in order by Tobias Hurwitz, Ken and Darren Burridge, Bill Peck, Peter Ema, Joe Rose, Joe Stump, Florent Atem, Maxxxwell Carlisle and MAB).
Michael Angelo Batio is known for his technical mastery of the fretboard and his extremely fast picking and sweep picked arpeggios. He is also known for his showmanship during performances, particularly his use of the "Over-Under" technique, and for his ability to play a double and quad guitar, using both hands to play. Batio is also noted for his guitar instruction DVDs in the "Speed Kills" series which teach shred guitar techniques and how to "master the art of playing lightning fast." Batio was voted the "No. 1 Shredder of All Time" by Guitar One Magazine in 2003.
FEEL THE NEED FOR DOG CAMP?: Mike Portnoy, Billy Sheehan and Richie Kotzen of The Winery Dogs have announced Dog Camp, their first annual immersive program for aspiring musicians of all ages and levels, set for July 21-25, 2014 at Full Moon Resort in Big Indian, NY.
Produced by Dreamcatcher Events (www.dreamcatcher-events.com), this special vacation experience offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with the three legends as campers attend instrument-specific clinics, learn songwriting mechanics, and enjoy very special intimate performances and jam sessions from The Winery Dogs and special guests. Look for the daily itinerary for Dog Camp to be announced in the coming weeks and check out a video from Mike Portnoy talking about Dog Camp here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlAaHTcsuLQ.
Tickets for Dog Camp are on sale now at www.winerydogcamp.com. Attendees will have access to all workshops, seminars, gourmet meals, performances, jam sessions, and camp activities.
"We've all done clinics over the years, but it's always been something that's primarily centered around one instrument that each of us has typically done on an individual basis," says drummer Portnoy. "Dog Camp is the first time that any of us have hosted or participated in a true 'Band Camp.' As a result of that, we've got some incredible surprises in store for everybody attending. We'll be living together, hanging together, and jamming together," Portnoy continues. "We want you to ask as many questions as possible, and we're going to engage you on a one-on-one basis to help you realize your goals as a player." "What's interesting is to talk about music, concepts, objectives, reasons why you're playing the instrument, what you want to achieve, and how to get to that point, rather than talking about major versus minor scales," says lead vocalist/guitarist Kotzen. "I love that feeling of sharing concepts with people. In The Winery Dogs, we all have various experiences that a lot of other people don't have. It's an opportunity to share that and grow; the feeling of moving forward and learning and experiencing something new. That's what excites me about Dog Camp. It's the creative process and creativity that make me want to do music, and I want to share that." "I want to emphasize that players should keep an eye on what we're doing and why during the performances," adds bassist Sheehan. "In between songs or mid-song, I want to stop to make a point about what's going on and why. The expertise of being able to play ensemble is a bit of a lost art with kids today. They don't do what we did when we were growing up. Right away, we just got in a band whether we could play or not. Now, kids want to get up to a level of expertise and then join a band."
"[During the seminars] I like to have back-and-forth communication," Sheehan continues. "I want to speak with people and hear their opinions, disagreements, and challenges. I believe anyone who attends will see a jumpstart in their quest to achieve their dreams."
Dog Camp offers a variety of pricing options, based on the variety of available accommodations. All activities will be held at Full Moon Resort in Big Indian, NY, which features an eclectic array of comfortable, rustic country-inn accommodations as well as primitive tent camping. All accommodations are just steps away from daily camp activities. Guests can enjoy the spring-fed swimming pool, on-site access to the Esopus Creek, and explore the splendors of the Catskills on the nearby network of hiking trails. Dedicated to the celebration of nature, music and the arts, this one hundred-acre wonderland of mountains, fields, and streams is a world of its own.
Dog Camp Website: www.winerydogcamp.com / www.facebook.com/pages/Winery-Dog-Camp-with-Billy-Sheehan-Mike-Portnoy-and-Richie-Kotzen/600934109989009 / www.dreamcatcher-events.com.
MRX UPDATED: MRX - last week for those that got a free membership when entering the MRF3 raffle last year! The good news - I'll be doing another for MRF4!!!
Today's MRX update features over 100 songs as the first part of the Billboard Rock Chart song list from 1981! MRX Membership Details.
Thursday, March 06, 2014
WINGER RELEASE VIDEO FOR DEBUT SINGLE "RAT RACE": Winger returns this week with the first video from their upcoming Frontiers Records release Better Days Comin'. "Rat Race" is the debut single from the album being released in Europe on April 18 and in North America on April 22. The high-energy song and video alternates between black and white performance footage and color montages of life's daily rat race. "Rat Race" was filmed in Nashville, TN and directed by Jason Green. "In this day and age, how quick you think, hard you try, no matter how fast you run, someone is always gaining on you" states front man Kip Winger. "We wanted to make sure the video visually represented that."
Better Days Comin' is available for digital download via iTunes at smarturl.it/WingerDeluxe. Fans that pre-order the album will receive an instant download of the first single "Rat Race." The album is also available for physical pre-order on Amazon.com in a standard (Better Days Comin') and deluxe configuration (Better Days Comin' (CD/DVD Deluxe Edition)). The deluxe edition comes in a glossy digipak and includes the bonus track "Another Beautiful Day" and a DVD including a Making of the Album documentary as well as the videos for "Rat Race" and title track "Better Days Comin'." Fans can also order exclusive bundles, autographed items and more from the band's webstore at: bit.ly/1hJLPYw.
From the opening riff of album opener "Midnight Driver of a Love Machine" to the final outro lick of "Out Of This World," it is clear Winger is back and better than ever. Hard rocking songs like "Queen Babylon," progressive rock movements like "Tin Soldier," and touching ballads like "Ever Wonder" show the band's diversity while always centering on great songs. The band has always been known for their incredible musicianship and the trend continues on Better Days Comin'.
Winger formed in the late 1980's and soared to immediate success with their 1988 self-titled release. The album spawned the hit singles "Seventeen" and "Headed For A Heartbreak" and achieved platinum sales status. Winger also stayed on the Billboard Top 200 chart for over 60 weeks where it peaked at #21. Their next album, In The Heart Of The Young, also achieved platinum status behind the singles "Can't Get Enuff" and "Miles Away." The change in musical climate of the mid-90's, compounded with unprovoked ridicule on MTV's popular Beavis and Butthead, led the band to go on hiatus in 1994. In 2001, the band reunited and have not looked back since. Winger has made a name for themselves with relentless touring, while winning back fans and critics alike because of their exceptional musicianship, Kip Winger's powerful vocals and the band's incredible songwriting.
WebLink: www.wingertheband.com. Winger:Kip Winger – bass guitar, vocals; Reb Beach - guitars; Rod Morgenstein - drums; John Roth - guitars.
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LRS - "LIVIN' 4 A DREAM" (OFFICIAL VIDEO CLIP): L.R.S. "Livin' 4 a Dream" is taken from the album "Down to the Core". Buy the album on Amazon or iTunes: www.smarturl.it/lrsitunes.
Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of L.R.S. debut album Down to the Core on March 21 in Europe and March 25 in North America.
L.R.S. stands for the new Melodic Rock musical alliance between singer Tommy La Verdi (21 Guns), guitarist Josh Ramos (The Storm, Hardline) and drummer Michael Shotton (Von Groove, Airtime). Started initially as a way to bring back to the public the amazing vocal talent of Tommy LaVerdi, a singer which came to the attention of the fans on the fabulous 21 Guns debut album "Salute" in 1992, the whole project morphed into a power band trio when two other well known musicians: guitar player Josh Ramos and drummer Michael Shotton were brought into the picture by the album producer Alessandro Del Vecchio (Hardline).
The writing sessions were fast and steady, with Del Vecchio managing all contributions from the band members – who lived in different places - and offering a number of his own writings and co-writings to the band, which was anyway able to develop a distinctive Melodic Rock sound in the tradition of Journey / The Storm, with hints of Canadian AOR - think mid 80's Triumph. Recording sessions happened for the most part in Somma Lombardo, Italy during the spring of 2013, with the musicians getting along extremely well and creating a spontaneous camaraderie which contributed a lot to the success of the sessions.
"I respected a lot both Josh and Michael before starting the album and it was actually very sad to leave each other after we finished recording and filming the videos" said Tommy La Verdi, while Michael Shotton added "It was like we had been playing in a band for years!". "I had the opportunity to try different styles and moods and incorporate elements of my past musical experiences in The Storm and Hardline -- I was very glad to be involved in this", concludes Josh Ramos.
The resulting album" Down to the Core" is now finally ready to be unleashed to the public. With soaring vocals from LaVerdi, a superb vocalist who comes back into the well-deserved spotlight and some exquisite guitar playing from Ramos, this is an album not to be missed and an AOR highlight for early 2014!
L.R.S.Tommy La Verdi - lead vocals / Josh Ramos - guitars / Michael Shotton – drums, backing vocals / With: Alessandro Del Vecchio keyboards, hammond organ, backing vocals; Nicola Mazzucconi bass, fretless bass; Anna Portalupi bass, fretless bass; Jamie Browne bass.
TIMO TOLKKI'S AVALON "ANGELS OF THE APOCALYPSE":
The new Timo Tolkki's Avalon album! Out in May 2014 on Frontiers Records - www.avalonopera.com.
TYSON LESLIE RELEASES TRAIN WRECKS, HAVOC & HEARTBREAK:
(5 March 2014 - Kansas City, MO) Kansas City pop rock artist Tyson Leslie has made a name for himself throughout the Midwestern USA through his work with acts like Pomeroy, and Baloney Ponyz, as well as his sideman duties alongside George Lynch, Carmine Appice, Corey Taylor and others. Leslie was most recently seen on the road as a member of modern rock act Red Line Chemistry, touring with rock legends, Whitesnake.
Now, however, it's time to take a leap into the deep end and unleash Train Wrecks, Havoc & Heartbreak, his debut album via own imprint, Above The Level Recordings. "Some of the songs on this album go back twenty years," muses the multi-instrumentalist. "I've been so busy working in other peoples' projects that it just took me this long to get it all together and figure out how I wanted to present it."
On Train Wrecks, Havoc & Heartbreak, Tyson tackles everything from 70's glam to upbeat rock tracks, humour and sensitive ballads, wrapping it all up and presenting it in a nice little power pop package. "I think my years of playing in cover bands and playing music that other people has written has helped me to develop my style a little more," says Tyson. "I've become a little more rounded as a songwriter."
Train Wrecks, Havoc & Heartbreak is available now through tysonleslie.com.
Wednesday, March 05, 2014
CALIFORNIA BREED SET TO RELEASE THEIR FIRST SELF-TITLED DEBUT ALBUM IN MAY:
Think of California and you think of brilliant color and bright sunlight. Think of a breed and it's all about bloodlines and brotherhood. Put the two together as California Breed, and you have the most exciting new band of 2014, built around the foundation of legendary vocalist-bassist Glenn Hughes, drummer extraordinaire Jason Bonham and 23-year-old newcomer guitarist-singer-songwriter Andrew Watt. Mixing massive riffs, gutsy vocals and gale force rhythms, this powerful three-piece band will release their self-titled debut album May 16 in Europe and May 20 in North America on Frontiers Records. It was produced by Dave Cobb (Jamey Johnson, Rival Sons, Shooter Jennings and more). Look out for future announcements on the band at www.californiabreed.com.
California Breed was recorded at Cobb's Nashville studio and features equal co-writing credits among the three-man lineup. "It's proper rock," Hughes told ClassicRockMagazine.com (2/6), "but at the same time it's very now. Andrew is as influenced by Mick Ronson as he is Jimmy Page." "This kid is amazing," says Bonham. "The first time we met I thought he looked like the white Jimi Hendrix. And he plays in the studio likes he's onstage!"
Glenn Hughes, 'The Voice Of Rock', is a true original, a legendary icon whose credits include Deep Purple and guesting with everyone from Black Sabbath to Earth, Wind & Fire up to his most recent collaboration in rock supergroup Black Country Communion. No other rock musician has carved such a distinctive style blending the finest elements of hard rock, soul and funk. That astonishing voice is Hughes' calling card. The legacy of Led Zeppelin lives on in Jason Bonham, British drummer and son of Zep's legendary John Bonham. He has inherited the best of his father's skills while mastering his own distinctive and dynamic technique. Jason has followed his own distinctive path over the years, fronting his own successful outfits like Bonham, and playing with Led Zeppelin, Foreigner, Heart and, most recently, movie composer Hans Zimmer. Andrew Watt is a soulful singer/songwriter & multi-instrumentalist whose high-energy aggressive style & creative spirit are synonymous with New York City. Hughes says: "I live in the moment, it's all about NOW, California Breed is exactly where I live, breathe and where my freak flag flies."
Here's the track listing for the self-titled debut album: 1. The Way 2. Sweet Tea 3. Chemical Rain 4. Midnight Oil 5. All Falls Down 6. The Grey 7. Days They Come 8. Spit You Out 9. Strong 10. Invisible 11. Scars 12. Breathe 13. Solo* / *Deluxe Edition includes "Solo" bonus track and a DVD including 2 video clips ("The Way" and "Sweet Tea"), plus documentary.
About California Breed: Glenn Hughes has spent the subsequent years working with the biggest legends in music, as a solo star, and guesting with everyone from Black Sabbath to Earth, Wind & Fire – up to his most recent collaboration in rock supergroup Black Country Communion, which included Jason Bonham. When Black Country Communion disbanded Hughes and Bonham had a strong desire to keep playing together. They're only challenge was finding a new guitarist worthy of their musicality. Easier said than done for these stars who between them have worked with some of the greatest guitarists in history – including Ritchie Blackmore, Tony Iommi, Jimmy Page and Joe Bonamassa, to name just a few. Then fate took a hand in things when Glenn's friend Julian Lennon introduced him to the astounding talents of a New York City hotshot guitarist named Andrew Watt. "Literally, the first day me and Andrew got together we wrote two songs," recalls Glenn. "One was 'Chemical Rain' and the other was 'Solo', both of which are now on the finished album. I was so moved by the music, I said, 'We've got to record this!' That's when I called Jason." Cut to autumn 2013. Recording with Dave Cobb at the producer's own studio in Nashville, added all the finishing touches, says Glenn. At Cobb's insistence, every vocal was recorded live as the band was playing. "Totally the reverse of what I'm used to," says Glenn. "But I went into that aggressive rock soulfulness and everything down to the whispers, it was all done live! I enjoyed myself so much, just going for it. For what is on paper a three-piece, the sheer range of sounds and melodies you get from California Breed are breathtaking."
REVEALING THE MYSTERY TRACK:
This 2 minute teaser for an artist with an upcoming album was offered up late last week. The label/details and artist can now be revealed! The track is called What Goes Up from the new Alien CD Eternity which is due out on AOR Heaven April 25! A full press release and more samples are due any time now...
SUPERTRAMP'S 18 MILLION-SELLER BREAKFAST IN AMERICA INTHESTUDIO:
Dallas, TX - March 4, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands sits down with Roger Hodgson, former singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist for Supertramp, on the 35th anniversary of their international blockbuster Breakfast In America.
On the eve of Breakfast In America's release, no one outside the Brit ex-pat band's tight inner circle living in suburban Los Angeles had any reason to see what was about to happen. Sure, their U.S. label patiently had given them the time to gel, as exhibited in the band's brilliant 1974 album Crime of the Century. But after ten years together and five albums, Supertramp's commercial success was modest at best.
All of that changed in March of 1979 when the world woke up to "The Logical Song", making it an instant hit, followed by "Take the Long Way Home", "Goodbye Stranger" and "Breakfast In America" all on the musical menu. The album soared to # 1, selling 6 million records in the U.S. and 18 million worldwide, becoming the Egg McMuffin of popular music. But as InTheStudio host Redbeard finds out from Roger Hodgson, who along with Rick Davies wrote and sang these hits, Breakfast In America came with a price. Roger explains, "It was a double-edged sword. I could sense the album was going to be huge, but I could also sense that the band was splitting up. I could feel it. The beginning of the end was sown."
Supertramp 'Breakfast In America' / InTheStudio interview program is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/supertramp/
"Later this year, they'll kick off a co-headlining tour with Styx, which ex-Eagles guitarist Don Felder will open. To promote the tour, members of Foreigner and Styx, along with Felder, recorded a new version of "Hotel California." A Styx/Foreigner/Felder jam on the classic rock hit would seem to be a logical encore for the tour, but Jones says, "We haven't discussed that yet, but anything's possible, my mind's completely open. We've been hanging out together in the past few days, and playing together, and the chemistry is incredible. We've never done anything like that with anyone we've toured with before." After those dates, Foreigner will do a tour where they play their 1981 album, 4, in its entirety. "That was a close as I think we came to a perfect Foreigner album," Jones explained of the choice. "I think it is the best one, I think you can hear through the first three albums, how the band evolved, and I think we really had a clear picture of where we wanted to go with that one."
He's quick to note that the band is also planning their first new album since 2009's Can't Slow Down, featuring new material and some guest appearances ("we've gone to several friends and prominent artists"). That album will be their second with singer Kelly Hansen, who joined the band in 2005.
Last year at the Songwriters Hall of Fame ceremony, Jones and Lou Gramm reunited to perform "Juke Box Hero" and "I Want To Know What Love Is." So, with all due respect to Hansen, fans are asking if a more large-scale reunion is in the cards? "The award really, in a way, validated us to our peers," Jones said. "We were both very humbled by the bestowing of that honor, and it was great to share that with Lou. It was a great chance to hang out and get to know each other a little bit again. I think anything is possible, there's more of a cordial feeling between us. I'm sure at some point, something like that could very well happen." And does he still lose sleep about that other Hall of Fame? "When I see some of the decisions they make, it's mind-boggling," Jones said. "It's quite elitist, to say the least. I just don't think they're in touch with the tastes of the audience. I just don't think they get it. Even though we were incredibly successful and popular, they continue to ignore artists of our era."
MELODIC BRIEFS: The Oddfathers video for Shake You Up is the first video from the new, Jack Douglas produced EP, Part I: youtu.be/FVeImRykPCg.
Blood Of VanGogh is a new band from Ontario, Canada. The band consists of four veteran rockers that have been in bands such as Helix, Sass Jordan, Filthy Lying Bastards and Syre. Please click on the links to learn more of Blood Of VanGogh: youtu.be/Myh30fY0rHs / bloodofvangogh.com.
Another new radio show can be heard online - this time from Sweden, featuring the latest news from the world of melodic rock and metal. The host of Metal Journalen is Fredrik Frippe Persson and the first show will be aired on Tuesday March 11 at 21.00 in Sweden. Fredrik Frippe Persson will have interviews with Johnny Öhlin from Nation, Björn Lodin from Baltimoore and Matti Alfonzetti from Skintrade in future shows. Listen on the web: www.radio943.se/radiospelare.php. Metal Journalen on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MetalJournalen.
This week on The Double Stop Podcast, Stuart Smith (Heaven & Earth) is interviewed. He discusses his own personal history and the formation of Heaven & Earth. He touches on Kelly Keeling's struggles, the Richie Sambora situation in Bon Jovi, the state of the music business and the making of the new album Dig. www.youtube.com/watch?v=j642OE7OLdg / thedoublestop.com/episode-5-stuart-smith-heaven-earth-sweet.
MUSICARS TO HONOR OZZY OSBOURNE:
The 10th anniversary MusiCares MAP Fund benefit concert will honor Black Sabbath's Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Ozzy Osbourne, and owner/CEO of the Village studios Jeff Greenberg. Taking place at Club Nokia in Los Angeles on May 12, Osbourne will be honored with the Stevie Ray Vaughan Award for his dedication and support of the MusiCares MAP Fund. He is being recognized for his commitment to helping other addicts with the addiction recovery process. Greenberg will be the recipient of MusiCares From the Heart Award for his unconditional friendship and dedication to the mission and goals of the organization. All proceeds will benefit the MusiCares MAP Fund, which provides members of the music community access to addiction recovery treatment regardless of their financial situation.
Continuing to celebrate the memory of DJ AM, the evening's DJ will be Mix Master Mike. There will also be a performance by Osbourne and his touring band with special guest Slash on guitar. Additional performers will be announced shortly. "Ten years ago MusiCares merged with the Musicians' Assistance Program, originally founded by Buddy Arnold, to create the MusiCares MAP Fund," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy and MusiCares. "Since then our addiction recovery resources and programs have grown substantially, and this annual benefit provides a meaningful way to recognize artists and industry professionals who are on the front lines in the battle to fight this crippling disease. It's an honor to celebrate Ozzy and Jeff in our 10th anniversary year, and we know it will be an extraordinary evening filled with heartfelt words and serious rock and roll.""I know firsthand about the ravages of addiction and I also know that the MusiCares MAP Fund is a vital safety net for people in the music industry who need help with substance abuse," said Osbourne. "This organization literally saves lives. I've been lucky to spend my life in the music business doing things that I love," said Greenberg. "But I've also seen the serious and, all too often, fatal effects of addiction in our industry, so that's why I am an ardent supporter of the MusiCares MAP Fund."
This special dinner and concert offers Living Room Sets that seat 10 for $12,500, Individual Floor Seats for $1,250 per person, and VIP Balcony Seats for $100 per person. Contact Wynnie Wynn for ticket information at 310.392.3777 or wynniew@grammy.com. General Admission Balcony Seats for $50 per person are available only through AXS beginning at 10 a.m. PT on March 7 at www.axs.com. Out of respect for the clients the MusiCares MAP Fund serves, the event will be alcohol-free.
HEARTBREAK HOTEL FOR SCREAM ARENA:
England's melodic hard rockers Scream Arena is ready with their self-titled debut album which will be released March 17. Today the band premieres a Elvis cover song! The United Kingdom has always provided its own twist on the US art form that is rock 'n' roll, from The Rolling Stones on, through Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, The Who, Queen, Def Leppard, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden et al. And drawing on such greats amongst others, England's Scream Arena take a brand of melodic hard rock with metal undertow and give it a firm twist, balancing now with the classic. A rare feat.
Formed by lyricist Andy Paul and going through the usual line-up changes until arriving at the motley but right crew the band is today, Scream Arena is a response to both the fey indie bands masquerading as "rock bands" in Britain and the studied off the shelf misery of so many metal bands championed by the fashion conscious, Scream Arena is simply a full tilt hard rock band with a lyrical slant towards narrative storytelling. "We are so tired of Smiths retreads and rewatered workings of The Clash being sold to us as the future of rock music", says frontman Andy Paul. "It was time to say "enough"."
The catalyst for the Scream Arena debut album was famed US rock producer/musician Paul Sabu taking the band under his wing and guiding them along the way. Sabu was responsible for bringing the idea of a cover of the Elvis Presley classic "Heartbreak Hotel" to the table and being keen students of history and believing that an acknowledgment of the roots allows the way ahead to be clear, the band agreed and with Sabu crafted a nod and a wink to the King. Andy recalls, "We saw no real reason behind covering "Heartbreak Hotel" but as we got into the idea we saw and appreciated the logic and indeed the song".
Listen exclusively to "Heartbreak Hotel" from the upcoming album on SoundCloud here.
The remainders of the songs on the album are self-penned originals with the basic premise being that of telling a tale, be it real or imagined, but wishing to draw audience with ideas that they can relate to. Thus full tilt opener "Born Ready" is Tarantino made rock & roll, while "The Price of Love" is based on a very true tale where the names are changed to protect the badly behaved. This is a beginning for Scream Arena, a British band that charts its own course and does not apologize for such confidence. This is hard rock from the heart and soul and all Scream Arena ask is "listen to the album cos rock and roll is back on the menu ...".
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/screamarena / mightymusic.dk/scream-arena.
Monday, March 03, 2014
FRONTIERS RECORDS UPDATES: Winger - Further to a press release issued last week, Winger have now confirmed a UK tour to follow their appearance on the main stage at Download Festival on 15th June. The dates are as follows:
17.06.14 Glasgow - O2 Academy
18.06.14 Newcastle - O2 Academy
20.06.14 Bristol - O2 Academy
21.06.14 London - O2 Academy Islington
Melodic Rock Fanzine - Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of Melodic Rock Fanzine. The 60th release of Frontiers Records' magazine is available for free all over the world through record shops, mail-orders and every fine dealer carrying the Frontiers Records releases. Below is the preview of the Melodic Rock Fanzine cover. This new issue includes reviews and interviews of Heart, Primal Fear, Vanden Plas, W.E.T., Ring of Fire, Indica, Silent Force, Berggren Kerslake Band, Sleeping Romance, Persuader, House of Lords, Red Dragon Cartel, Silent Voices... and more! Electronic readable version of the magazine is available on the Frontiers official site and here: issuu.com/frontiers_records/docs/mrf60.
CHEAP THRILL (FEATURING MEMBERS OF CINDERELLA, WHITE LION, GIBBS BROS.) ANNOUNCE FIRST EUROPEAN TOUR:
February 28, 2014 Cheap Thrill, consisting of Cinderella bassist Eric Brittingham and guitarist Jeff LaBar, singer songwriter Brandon Gibbs (formerly of The Gibbs Brothers), and drummer Troy Patrick Farrell (White Lion, Gilby Clarke, Pretty Boy Floyd) have teamed up with Danger Music and Media to announce their first European Tour. UK's Shock Hazard will support the European leg of dates. Cheap Thrill brings you a sound flavored with Cinderella tunes such as "Nobody's Fool", "Heartbreak Station" and "Gypsy Road", along with the newest song from Brandon's solo record, "This Town", which is currently featured on ESPN 2 for the third NHRA season in a row. This show is also littered with popular covers and stadium rock songs.
When Cinderella isn't touring, Gibbs and Brittingham have always found themselves working together the last five years. With the recent addition of LaBar, the Nashville-based group Cheap Thrill made its debut on the Monsters Of Rock cruise in March 2013, with two more rock and roll cruises immediately following. Prior to their European Tour, Cheap Thrill will set sail again returning to the Monsters of Rock cruise in addition to the Moody Blues cruise and Cruise to the Edge respectively.
You can find more information at cheapthrillrocks.com.
ONLINE METAL PROMO AND HEAVY RIFFS MAGAZINE PARTNER TO OFFER "RIFFS OF STEEL": Online Metal Promo and Heavy Riffs magazine (Mexico/Spain) have partnered to offer "Riffs Of Steel", a free digital download compilation cd featuring 31 full songs from the following up and coming as well as established hard rock and heavy metal artists from around the world: 1. Stu Marshall 2. Death Dealer 3. Dave Reffett 4. Maxxxwell Carlisle 5. Hellion 6. Cage 7. Luzbel 8. Station 9. Maligno 10. Hellscream 11. Arrows Of Agony 12. Ignitor 13. Bulletrain 14. Ravensthorn 15. Mindmaze 16. Dire Peril 17. Spellcaster 18. Armory 19. Zephaniah 20. Empires Of Eden 21. Witchcross 22. Lords Of The Trident 23. Skinner 24. Enceladus 25. Split Heaven 26. Voltax 27. Archetype 28. Acrania 29. Corners Of Sanctuary 30. Decypher 31. Agora.
Download the songs,CD artwork and track listing at the following location: www.dropbox.com/sh/sw19c7aub2647rq/yTeHjQ5DQF.
Heavy Riffs magazine website: heavyriff.webs.com
INTRODUCING TOM MAVEETY: Tom MaVeety is an American guitarist who has just released two debut tracks on iTunes - War Going On and Sin Nature. Music and lyrics are by Tom MaVeety with music arranged and engineered by Brett Mulzer and Jimmy Dulin - Recorded at 77 Recording Studio Evansville IN U.S.A.
War Going On features: Vocals: Carl Sommer; Bass: Brett Mulzer; Drums: Eric Duke; Guitars: Tom MaVeety.
Sin Nature: Vocals: Carl Sommer; Bass: Edward Sein; Drums: Brett Holland; Guitars: Tom MaVeety; Additional Guitar: Brett Mulzer; Backing vocals: Carl Sommer, Jimmy Dulin, Phyllip Barker.
Check them out now at: itunes.apple.com/us/artist/maveety/id659583901
FORMER LEAD SINGER OF ETERNITY X RELEASES SOLO ALBUM A DECADE AFTER HIS LAST RECORDING: Keith Sudano, well-known progressive rock singer/songwriter and former bandleader of Eternity X, has released a solo album entitled The Biography of Me. While fans of the band will be familiar with Sudano's distinctive voice and masterful lyrical development, this album of 9 tracks is by no means an Eternity X album, but a solo debut that illustrates the next phase of the musical journey for the artist. Universal themes of death, longing and release from fear weave through the songs, from "Symphony of Fear" to "Eulogy," and as is always the case in his work, Sudano composed the songs to work as part of the larger album in "concept-album" style. He also wrote, recorded, played every instrument, and even mixed/mastered this album himself (excepting one additional female voice on "A Love Story"), so it is a solo album in the truest sense of the word.
Sudano's style has evolved as well, and the title track is a fine example of this. It's autobiographical, raw, and melodic, yet still theatrical and hinged on his emotionally expressive voice and lyrics. This is singer/songwriter way beyond its usual folk moniker, and The Biography of Me is a fresh debut for an already-established talent. The Biography of Me is widely available on CD and MP3 online, including amazon.com, cdbaby.com, reverbnation.com, iTunes, and soundcloud.com. For more information, visit keithsudano.com.
Keith Sudano is the composer/singer/songwriter and the creator of the progressive hard rock/metal band Eternity X, which released its first full-length album, The Never Ending Dream, in 1990, before going on to tour worldwide and release four more albums throughout the next decade. Keith Sudano resides in Charleston, South Carolina and along with being a professional musician is also a Professional Counselor which he says gives him unique insight to express within his music.
DECIBEL GEEK PODCAST RELEASES JUDAS PRIEST DISCUSSION:
The Decibel Geek Podcast has released Episode 126 – Judas Priest Discussion for downloading/streaming. Show hosts Aaron Camaro and Chris Czynszak are joined by Bravewords.com founder, Tim Henderson, for an in-depth discussion of the entire Judas Priest studio discography. Starting with 1974's almost-progressive Rocka Rolla and winding up with 2008's Nostradamus; a concept album written largely on synth-keys, the discussion takes many twists and turns as each participant have different takes on what they like and dislike about the Judas Priest catalog due to tastes and differing levels of fandom. The hosts, a well a Henderson, also discuss their expectations for the upcoming Priest album that is currently in production.
The Decibel Geek Podcast was launched in June of 2011 by Chris Czynszak, a former rock journalist and webmaster. With co-host Aaron Camaro, the Decibel Geek Podcast has been featured numerous times in the iTunes store and has received praise from all over the world as one of the top hard rock and metal podcasts. All episodes are available on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, and the official Decibel Geek Podcast website at www.decibelgeek.com.
Direct Link to MP3: traffic.libsyn.com/dbgeekshow/Episode_102_-_Top_5_Bon_Scott_Era_AC.mp3.
Friday, February 28, 2014
FRONTIERS ROCK FESTIVAL UPDATE:
The announcement of the 1st Frontiers Rock Festival, which will be held at the Live Music Club in Trezzo (Milano, Italy), caused quite a stir in the Italian and International Hard Rock scene. Following the launch of the event, the label's office and websites has been hit with purchases and requests coming from all over the world – as far as Brazil, Japan and U.S.A! "We have been overwhelmed with the enthusiasm that the fans showed us", said Frontiers Records President, Serafino Perugino. "I am sure it will be a great (late) celebration of the first 15 years of work for the label and hopefully this will plant the seed for more activities we have in mind to make the Rock fans happy all over the world". Several international promoters have already approached Frontiers to export the idea in other territories. Several possibilities are currently checked out and there may be more surprises coming in the next months. Stay tuned!
In the meantime you can also experience the awesome line-up of the Festival via the YouTube trailer. Tickets and info are still available – go to www.frontiersrockfestival.com for all details!
STRYPER ANNOUNCES VIDEO CONTEST FOR LATEST SINGLE, "TE AMO":
Multi-platinum rock band Stryper is pleased to announce a very special contest around the latest single from their new studio album, No More Hell To Pay. "Te Amo" will be made available as a free download on the band's official website at www.stryper.com. Once fans have downloaded the track, they can utilize their artistic and technological skills to make a music or lyric video for the song. Once they have created their masterpiece, they can submit the video for review by a special panel of judges. The judges will pick their 10 favorite videos from the submissions, and those top 10 videos will then be posted on Noisecreep.com for not only Stryper fans, but hard rock and heavy metal fans around the world to vote for their favorite.
The grand prize winner will have their video posted on Stryper's official YouTube channel, Frontiers Records' YouTube channel and Stryper.com, with director credit for the video on all sites. The winner will also receive a Skype call with vocalist/guitarist Michael Sweet and a prize package containing Stryper merchandise items, guitar picks, drumsticks and an autographed copy of No More Hell To Pay.
For full details, including important rules and disclaimers, please visit Stryper's official website. Fans who don't want to participate are still encouraged to visit www.stryper.com to download the single if they don't already own the new album No More Hell To Pay.
Stryper's most recent album, No More Hell To Pay stormed the charts in November 2013 debuting at #3 on the Current Hard Music Albums and Top Hard Music Albums charts, #6 on the Top Current Rock Album charts, #33 on the Billboard Top 200 Current Albums and #35 on the Billboard Top 200 selling over 9500 copies the first week. Stryper also regained their dominance on the Christian charts landing at #2 on the Contemporary Christian Albums and #3 on the Billboard Top Christian/Gospel Albums. No More Hell To Pay also reached #1 on the iTunes Top Rock Album Charts and #8 on the iTunes Top Album Charts when it was released on November 5, 2013.
Stryper is one of the top Christian rock bands of all time. Comprised of the original line-up, Stryper has been rocking since 1984, and is responsible for such '80s metal classic albums as Soldiers Under Command, To Hell With The Devil and In God We Trust. In fact, Stryper is the first band to ever have two songs in MTV's Top 10 simultaneously with their hits "Free" and "Honestly." After a sabbatical for much of the 1990's, Stryper returned strong in the early 21st century. To date, the Dove Award-winning and Grammy nominated band has sold upwards of 10 million records worldwide.
WebLinks: www.stryper.com / www.facebook.com/Stryper.
ASIA - VALKYRIE - OFFICIAL VIDEO / NEW STUDIO ALBUM: Asia Gravitas – Release date March 21 (Europe) / March 25 (North America). Order on iTunes: smarturl.it/GravitasiTunes and Amazon: Gravitas (Reg) or Gravitas CD/DVD (Deluxe). Plus - new Frontiers promo spot.
xx
LANEY'S LEGION READY FOR UNLEASHING:
The Godfather of Swedish Glam and Sleaze Chris Laney's band Laney's Legion has released a digital single "Taste Of Your Tongue" on iTunes, Spotify and Amazon. The first single of the album is a killer air guitar fist in the air, sexy track and the artwork to match it! The "Self Titled" full length CD will be released April 22nd, 2014 worldwide. Laney's Legion features Chris Laney (Zan Clan, Randy Piper's Animal), Rob Marcello (Danger Danger), Mats Vassfjord (Grand Design, Scaar) and Patrik Jansson (Helsingland Underground).
How can you be truly unique in music today? Well, it's hard. Many bands focus too much on image, attitude or whatever and forget about the music. At the end of the day, the only thing that matters is the song: The Song Is King! Laney's Legion deliver a debut album full of surprises. Chris Laney has made a name for himself in the hard rock world writing, producing, mixing and winning Grammy awards with bands like Candlemass, Dynazty, Europe and H.E.A.T. After two successful and critically acclaimed solo albums "Pure" (2009) and "Only Come Out At Night" (2010) he's now back with a new album.
But instead of returning with a third solo album, the forthcoming full length feature will be the debut album for his new band: Laney's Legion. "I really missed the feeling of having a real band. I wanted to go back to the basics", says Chris. Laney is of course still handling lead vocals and rhythm guitars. Joining him is drummer Patrik Jansson (Hellsingland Underground) and bass player Mats Vassfjord (Grand Design, Scaar). They are both sought-after session players in the Swedish music circuit, and toured with Laney on his last tours. Last but least, the brand new quartet is complete with the highly acclaimed guitar virtuoso Rob Marcello (Danger Danger). This time, it's all about the music: "My solo albums were pretty much recorded and written in a rush. This time I didn't wanna stress anything. This time I only wanted the best songs possible".
In order to achieve this, he brought in longtime partner Anders Ringman to help out with writing and producing. The multi platinum songwriting duo, aka Platform, has a 15 year collaboration history featuring work with Crashdďet, Crucified Barbara, Steevi Jaimz and others. "It was the natural choice. We work so well together", Chris says. And with contributions from everybody in the band, Laney's Legion have produced an album containing nothing but solid, melodic sing-along tunes. "We're not trying to reinvent the wheel here. What it all come downs to is the music. And there are surprises. We're not just doing the normal hard glam rock our fans might expect, we rock, we pop and no one can stop us now!"
NEW GOTTHARD VIDEO RELEASED TODAY: Gotthard news: Only a little more than four weeks and it will finally be here: The big "Bang!" we're all waiting for. Great that there's the strong first single to tide us over, because "Feel What I Feel" definitely whets the appetite for more. Even more so watching the video, which officially premieres today, starring former „Miss Switzerland" Anita Buri in the super-hot leading role. Because let's face it – what could possibly be better than: awesome track + beautiful woman = perfect.
"Feel What I Feel": Extraterrestrial Clip. During the shoot of "Feel What I Feel" it got quite warm in the "Pfalzkeller" of St. Gallen monastery and that wasn't only caused by the spotlights ... Apart from the elaborately filmed scenes of the band's performance, the amazing Anita Buri raised the temperature in a tasteful, sexy alien costume, seducing our friend Nic good and proper. All very professional-like, of course. Find out how the story ends in the brand-new clip: www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIWZ6Kzwm7Y.
It came directly from the studio and touched down in the single charts easily. Now, "Feel What I Feel" sets off to look at the airplay charts from the very top as well. No wonder, because the leading track from "Bang!" surges ahead with a hymnal hook and a fantastic chorus, blazing the trail for the new Gotthard album, which will be released on April 4, 2014 and will probably cause quite a chart quake once again.
In ten days, the "Swiss Music Awards" will take place in the almost sold-out Zurich Hallenstadion. Obviously, Gotthard will be there on March 7 to perform the TV world premiere of "Feel What I Feel": "The SMAs will take place at the Hallenstadion for the first time. That's exactly the place, where such an event belongs and we are very much looking forward to our performance premiering our new song "Feel What I Feel"," confirms Marc. And Freddy adds: "The Hallenstadion always is very special. After our sold-out show in 2005, we're glad to be able to play in this venue again." Those without tickets will still be able to see the show: the event will be aired live at 8:10 pm on SRF Zwei, Joiz, and Rouge TV.
RETURN OF THE ROCK COVER ART AND TRACK LISTING REVEALED: Robert Valdes will release Return of the Rock, his 3rd solo studio album and first since 2005's Acoustic Journey. The digital version of "Return of the Rock" will be available exclusively through iTunes in March 2014. The cover art was created by artist Dave Groshelle. Check it all out below and let us know what you think. Also visit www.robertvaldes.com for more information.
Produced, Engineered & Mixed by Robert Valdes.
Official release dates for Return Of The Rock are as follows: Tuesday, February 25, 2014 iTunes pre-orders; Tuesday, March 25, 2014 worldwide release.
Part 1. with Voice 1. Save Mother Earth 2. Over 3. Let Me Go Back 4. Rock With Me Tonight 5. For You 6. Tell Me Who I Am 7. Give Back Your Heart 8. Fight Part 2. Instrumental 9. Sanctimonious 10. Road Trip 11. Elektrik Fire 12. Keys To The Kingdom.
You can check out the music of Return To The Rock in the CD Showcase launched today here.
INTRODUCING SWEDEN'S STRONG: Strong is Melodic Rock/AOR band from Sweden. The band was founded 2005 in Malmö (Sweden) by songwriter and Multi-instrumentalist Magnus 'Mister J' Johansson, with the plan of writing new music, with that distinct late 80's/Early 90's Scandi-AOR vibe - with a modern so the band also could attract a new, younger audience. Even though Strong has been around for nearly a decade, now, this is the first official release from the band.
The new song: Young Love is a mid-tempo ballad, with that classic 80's Europe-vibe. The song is available now on: itunes.apple.com/se/album/young-love-single/id827740841?uo=4 and open.spotify.com/track/3IZHMrfE0BMokMygkavSVT
You can also watch the music video on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=JT2nttrs3Vo.
Strong are: Philip Lindstrand (former singer of Osukaru) on Vocals; Multi-instrumentalist, Mister J on Guitar and Keyboards; Joacim Sandin (Riot Horse, ex Bai Bang, Gran Reserva) on Bass and Johnny Benson (Burning Kingdome, Pretty Wild, ex Bai Bang) on Drums.
For everything Strong, please visit www.facebook.com/strongtheband / twitter.com/StrongTheBand.
MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features:
- Ace Frehley - Live, Osaka 93
- Glasgow - Zero Four One (1987)
- Inxs - Rock Best Of Join MRX now.
Thursday, February 27, 2014
WINGER TO RELEASE HIGHLY- ANTICIPATED SIXTH STUDIO ALBUM BETTER DAYS COMIN' IN APRIL:
One of the most misunderstood Hard Rock bands to come out of the 80's is returning with their first new album in 5 years. Winger is releasing Better Days Comin' on April 18 in Europe and April 22 in North America via Frontiers Records. The notorious band comprised of members Kip Winger on vocals/bass, Reb Beach on guitar, John Roth on guitar and Rod Morgenstein on drums, are back with their latest album. The album is available for pre-order on Amazon.com in a standard (Better Days Comin' and deluxe configuration Better Days Comin' (CD/DVD Deluxe Edition). The deluxe edition comes in a glossy Digipak and includes the bonus track "Another Beautiful Day" and a DVD including a Making of the Album documentary as well as videos for the first single "Rat Race" and title track "Better Days Comin'." An iTunes pre-order will be available soon.
The band has always been known for their incredible musicianship and the trend continues on Better Days Comin'.
"On Better Days Comin' we drew from our past to elaborate on our future. The band is stronger than ever and very excited about the music on this record," explains front man Kip Winger. "We feel this album exemplifies the true sound of the band in every way."
From the opening riff of album opener "Midnight Driver of a Love Machine" to the final outro lick of "Out Of This World," it is clear Winger is back and better than ever. Hard rocking songs like "Queen Babylon," progressive rock movements like "Tin Soldier," and touching ballads like "Ever Wonder" show the band's diversity while always centering on great songs. The debut single from Better Days Comin' is the adrenaline fueled rocker "Rat Race" that showcases some of the band's best work of their 25 year career.
The track listing for Better Days Comin' is: 1) Midnight Driver of a Love Machine 2) Queen Babylon 3) Rat Race 4) Better Days Comin' 5) Tin Soldier 6) Ever Wonder 7) So Long China 8) Storm In Me 9) Be Who You Are, Now 10) Another Beautiful Day (Deluxe Edition Bonus Track) 11) Out Of This World.
Winger formed in the late 1980's and soared to immediate success with their 1988 self-titled release. The album spawned the hit singles "Seventeen" and "Headed For A Heartbreak" and achieved platinum sales status. Winger also stayed on the Billboard Top 200 chart for over 60 weeks where it peaked at #21. Their next album, In The Heart Of The Young, also achieved platinum status behind the singles "Can't Get Enuff" and "Miles Away." The change in musical climate of the mid-90's, compounded with unprovoked ridicule on MTV's popular Beavis and Butthead, led the band to go on hiatus in 1994. In 2001, the band reunited and have not looked back since. Winger has made a name for themselves with relentless touring, while winning back fans and critics alike because of their exceptional musicianship, Kip Winger's powerful vocals and the band's incredible songwriting.
WebLink: www.wingertheband.com. Winger:Kip Winger – bass guitar, vocals; Reb Beach - guitars; Rod Morgenstein - drums; John Roth - guitars.
xx
MYSTERY TRACK:
Yes, we haven't had one for a while, so if you'd like a dose of terrific melodic rock/AOR, then check out this 2 minute teaser for an artist with an upcoming album. The label/details and artist will be revealed shortly...
MELODIC BRIEFS:
This is the fifth instalment of our Dio Strange Highways series. This time we talk with Scott Warren. Dio fans know that Scott was a large part of the Dio legacy but most people don't know that he actually played on Strange Highways. On this episode we aim to set the record straight. Links are: www.focusonmetal.net / www.castironring.com.
The melodic metal band Signum Regis have uploaded a lyric video for the track "Exodus" to YouTube. The track comes off their album "Exodus" and feat. Lance King [ex. Balance of Power, Pyramaze] on vocals. "Exodus" was released on November 15th in Europe and December 3rd in North America through Ulterium Records. Check out the lyric video at YouTube here: youtu.be/poXdNbFuwbo / www.signum-regis.com.
MetalSymphony.com has uploaded photos of The Poodles's February 9, 2014 concert at Sala Shoko in Madrid, Spain. Support act pics from Overloud and Natribu are available. Check them out at this location: www.metalsymphony.com/?p=16893#pg
The Poodles's setlist was as follows: Misery Loves Company, Metal Will Stand Tall, Cuts Like A Knife, Shut Up!, Shadows, Line of Fire, Medley:, I Rule The Night/Leaving The Pass To Pass/Crying, Instrumental, Caroline, Kings & Fools, Like No Tomorrow, Seven Seas, Echoes From The Past, Night Of Passion.
Finnish prog/hard rock act Montage have released a new song from their upcoming debut album. Check out the 1960's inspired 'Strawberry Skies' here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IU3KQ52wzxY. Montage's debut album, due to be released in May 2014, will consist of eight eclectic hard rock songs, featuring such titles as 'Misty High', 'Strawberry Skies' and 'Devil's Whip'. The group will announce more information about their record deal and upcoming gigs in the next few weeks. www.montage.fi.
Here it is.... the new Teenage Casket Company promo video for the song (You Only Love Me) When You Hate Me. Directed by Mr Stitch Films. The song is lifted from the "Still Standing" album which has received universal praise all over the world since its release last September. The band have been nominated for 3 awards at this year's highly prestigious Pure Rawk awards (including best album) due to be held in London on March 7th. The band will be hitting the road this spring/ summer. www.youtube.com/watch?v=ER2ytjafdHc / www.teenagecasketcompany.co.uk.
NEW WHITESNAKE TRIBUTE BAND FEATURING DAVID READMAN FORMED:
A new ultimate European Whitesnake tribute band announced earlier today, Featuring David Readman (Voodoo Circle, Pink Cream 69) on Lead Vocals:
Statement: "Today, we stand at the cradle of Troublesnake. A number of fine young Belgian musicians have teamed up with vocalist David Readman (Voodoo Circle, Pink Cream 69, Adagio...) to bring you the ultimate European Whitesnake tribute. Routined in playing together with their other project Purpleized, a Deep Purple tribute, Ruben Vanempten (drums), Dimi Russo (bass), Yves Neefs and Robert Mol (guitars) know better than anyone else how to do justice to the authentic 70's and 80's European heavy metal sound. Now, supporting the magnificent and powerful rock voice of David Readman, they'll let their interpretation of Deep Purple mature naturally into this new project giving honor to Whitesnake, exactly like David Coverdale did before them. First show will be announced soon, stay tuned!
WebLink: www.facebook.com/notes/hydra-productions-booking-agency/hydra-announces-the-birth-of-troublesnake/236441679874767
THE QUEST FOR "SPRINGFIELD":
Long-time reader and fellow Rick Springfield enthusiast Randall has emailed me to enlist fan help for a campaign to get the "lost" 1974 Rick Springfield album Springfield released from the vaults. Read on if interested:
As most of you know Rick recorded an album for Columbia Records in 1974 entitled "Springfield" but it was never released. Only a few of the songs have surfaced over the years but not the entire album. Sony Legacy Recordings (label who owns and reissues RCA, Columbia, EPIC albums) now has a site called "Legacy Vault" where you can list and vote for albums you would like to see released digitally via iTunes & Amazon. I have posted the request on the site and have a few votes but we need a bunch more to get their attention. So please go to the following link and vote to have this album finally released. With all the Rick fans out there I know we can do it!!
WebLink: www.legacyrecordings.userecho.com/topic/230084-rick-springfield-unreleased-1974-springfield-album/
THE SUMMIT INTRODUCE FIRST VIDEO:
The debut video from The Summit is available now on YouTube. The song Turn It Off is taken from the band's debut album Higher Ground, released on Rambo/Gain in Sweden on May 14. The Summit is a collaboration between old friends, all seasoned musicians in their own right with bands like 220 Volt, Easy Action and Marmalade Souls. Their debut album Higher Ground, out on May 14, is a nod to the members musical influences from their 70:s childhood. Written and recorded quickly, in a true 70:s style, without pulling any punches. Björn Höglund (drums): "The result is a loving tribute to our heroes, while creating something - in our opinion - new and fresh. We are not ripping anyone off, but you can surely feel the presence of some of our favorite bands throughout the album. The idea was to work quickly, like many of them did. I mean, some of our favorite classic rock albums from that time only took a couple of weeks to record! I wanted The Summit to fit the same idea. Creatively and musically."
Link to video: youtu.be/l7WB29ZDze8 / www.jointhesummit.com / www.facebook.com/jointhesummit.
Line-Up: Michael Klemmé; vocals and guitar; Mats Karlsson; guitar and vocals; Björn Höglund; drums; Lars Ericsson; bass.
XANDER DEMOS TO SUPPORT STRYPER IN PA: MTS Management Group is proud to announce Xander Demos and his band, XDB will be opening for hard rock veterans, Stryper. The concert will take place on June 12, 2014 at Altar Bar in Pittsburgh, PA. Doors open at 6:30pm. Tickets for the all ages Drusky Entertainment event are $27 in advance and $30 at the door. They can be purchased in advance at www.xanderdemos.bigcartel.com. Also on the bill is Pittsburgh-based Christian hard rock band, Angelight. Iron City Rocks podcast is a co-presenter of this event. "This is going to be an incredible night of metal fretboard fireworks and soaring melodic metal vocals," said Xander's manager, Michael Stover of MTS Management Group. "Michael Sweet and Oz Fox of Stryper have long been regarded as one of the top guitar tandems in the business, and of course, Xander is fast becoming known among the shred metal guitar community, as having blazing speed, as well as tastefully melodic phrasing. Stryper has always been known for the big harmonies and earth-shattering screams of Sweet. Mario Brescia of XDB, can also wail with the best of them. Since XDB walked away with a slew of Iron City Rocks Awards this year, it's very fitting to have them on what is sure to be a sold out bill."
The iconic quartet of Stryper—Michhael Sweet [vocals, guitar], Robert Sweet [drums], Oz Fox [guitar], and Tim Gaines [bass]—built a formidable catalog since firstt forming in 1983. They've sold over 10 million albums worldwide, garnered Grammy Award nominations, scored Dove Awards, sold out arenas everywhere, and inspired one of the most diehard fan bases in history. The band's signature style of overpowering melodies, harmony solos and thunderous rhythms is certainly its trademark, but it hits harder than ever on 2013's No More Hell To Pay. For more information: www.stryper.com.
DRUMMER JEFF PLATE INTERVIEWED:
Part 1 of a 2 part interview with Jeff Plate of Trans-Siberian Orchestra/Savatage/Metal Church: squintyt4e.livejournal.com/46671.html
Confined and somewhat hidden behind his massive kit, unable to run around the expansive Trans-Siberian Orchestra stage, drummer Jeff Plate might not be the most recognizable member of TSO, but he has provided the heartbeat for the band since the beginning after taking a seat on the Savatage drum throne in 1994. Savatage producer Paul O'Neill created TSO to be a prog rock band that could handle any musical style, a challenge Jeff has risen to with masterful precision.
For fans who have shaken hands in the post-show signing line of the TSO East band though, Jeff is typically the first member fans see, greeting all with a smile, "Hello," and words of encouragement for drummers and musicians of all ages. Leading by example, Jeff is an example of the adage "opportunity meets preparation" as his hard and tireless work honing his craft enabled him to rise to the occasion when given the opportunity to prove his skill and ability.
I spoke at length with Jeff in December about his career, Savatage, the first TSO show, drumming, touring, setlists, The Lost Christmas Eve tour, special guests, the then upcoming Berlin New Year's Eve performance, the blurred lines between Savatage and TSO, specific Savatage and TSO songs, his other band Metal Church, TSO fans, the differences between TSO theater vs arena shows, and much more.
Bp: What memories do you have of the first TSO tour in 1999? Jeff Plate: I always tell this story because I think it's hilarious. Johnny and I were standing on the side of the stage at the Tower Theater in Philadelphia, waiting to go out, Johnny was so nervous his leg was twitching. I was sweating. We're thinking, here we are wearing tuxedos and we're gonna go out and play Christmas music, what are we doing? And the dry ice was rolling across the stage right into the laps of this older couple who were sitting in the front row. And they were dressed for a symphony orchestra performance. You know, he had this nice black tuxedo suit on, she was wearing a red dress with a shawl and hair done up. Probably 60ish in age and the dry ice was rolling off the stage right into their lap. We looked at each other and said, "We are doomed!" And we went out there and did the show and this couple loved it. They stayed the whole time! We got done with the show, took the bow, the gentleman stuck his hand up and gave me a high five and I walked off that stage and said, "Wow, I can't believe that just happened!" And that was kind of the gist of what happened every show after that. Here we are kind of questioning what's going on here. You know, we were a metal band at one point in shorts and t-shirts playing festivals and coming on and playing "Taunting Cobras," "Hall of the Mountain King" and now we're out here in tuxedos playing "First Snow" and "Mad Russians" and stuff like that. It was just a contrast to what we had come from.
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
COMING UP IN MARCH / APRIL / MAY:
Here are some brief thoughts on some upcoming releases in the next few months. There's also plenty more in the pipe, so stand by for a lot of reviews to come. Full feature reviews of all the following titles due soon...
H.E.A.T – Tearing Down The Walls (Gain, April 9)
The Swedes return with an album that I think everyone was hoping for. For want of a better description, it's Address The Nation Part 2, but with a heavier edge and a couple of musical twists as usual. The album feels like a band that has grown together and delivers everything they have learnt from one another. I can't imagine anyone being disappointed in this – it's loud, fast and filled with great hooks and sounds a million bucks! It's pure H.E.A.T!
01. Point Of No Return – The energetic and anthemic opener we expected with a heavier edge.
02. A Shot At Redemption – Initially surprising structure, a rousing, anthemic singalong track that builds into a big instantly likable commercial rocker.
03. Inferno – Hard fast and dirty! A stampeding chorus and unforgettable hook.
04. The Wreckoning – A brief musical interlude.
05. Tearing Down The Walls – A great big, loud, heartfelt hands-in-the-air rock ballad.
06. Mannequin Show – Darker, moodier and quirky, but another great hook and chorus combo.
07. We Will Never Die – Simple, but effective hard rocker that isn't fast or slow….just in-between.
08. Emergency – Another uptempo anthemic rocker with plenty of harmonies, wailing guitars and big vocals.
09. All The Lights – Heartfelt slow ballad, with a powerful haunting vocal accompanied only by piano and strings.
10. Eye For An Eye – Absolute monster anthemic hard rocker. Heavy, urgent and powerful.
11. Enemy In Me – Fast, heavy and thumping rhythm section. One of the band's heaviest tracks yet. Instantly catchy.
12. Laughing At Tomorrow – Another great anthemic melodic rock track with a killer chorus and big, fat harmony vocals throughout. Monster chorus. Perfect album closer!
Winger – Better Days Comin' (Frontiers, April 18)
The opening salvo of Midnight Driver Of A Love Machine, Queen Babylon and Rat Race is breathtaking. The title track is original and instantly memorable. Add in a couple of dark, heavy and more progressive tracks and two near 7 minute epic melodic rock anthemic ballads and you might just have one of the best Winger albums ever. I'm only 4-5 listens in, but there is so much to absorb. On early impressions, I think this album takes up where Karma left off and takes it to the next level.
Soto – Inside The Vertigo (TBA, TBA)
Yes, that Soto – the Jeff Scott one! This time the new JSS album is a band affair under the Soto banner. And it sounds like a band record too. This is a highly accomplished set of songs and boy, is it heavy! The guys take the JSS sound to a new level on this album and I'm (as usual), mightily impressed. I think fans will be very surprised by the quality and attitude unveiled on this album! More thoughts soon as well as all the release information when it becomes available! I have to get in that there is one epic 9 minute track on this record!
Three Lions – Three Lions (Frontiers, April 18)
The lead track Trouble In A Red Dress is a great indication of what the album has to offer. Pure British melodic hard rock with a bluesy twist and a healthy dose of guitars from Mr. Burns. Very strong, soulful rock vocals and a very solid sound too. Some moody moments to balance the generally uptempo feel of the album. More listening required – it's not an instant album like some others, but depth definitely there.
Guardian – Almost Home (TBA, TBA)
Very diverse record this! Classic melodic hard rock, mixed with modern pop/rock and some heavier punk-fused moments too. And a couple of acoustic driven modern rock tracks too. A real mix. Great sounding record and mixed to perfection. Rowe sounds great of course and there are some really catchy moments on here like The Real Me, Wonderful, King Of Fools and the AOR anthem Price We Pay. A quality release no doubt. Lots to listen to, so back into it I go…
Sebastian Bach – Give Em Hell (Frontiers, April 18)
Solo Bach is a different beast than Skid Row Bach and I prefer the latter. But if you have enjoyed Bach's solo output, this album is heavier than ever, screamier than ever and if ranked alongside his other releases, seemingly the most consistent and strongest solo release yet. Expertly produced by Bob Marlette once again. Loud!
Magnum – Escape From The Shadow Garden (SPV, March 24)
For the second time in a row I find myself rearranging a Magnum album to enhance my enjoyment of it, but that aspect cannot alter the fact that there are some delicious classic Magnum songs on offer here. Sound and style borrow from the last couple of outings and also from the likes of Rockart and even some Storyteller's Night. It's a long and complex album with a lot of different approaches within the songs. Moody, hard rocking, epic…melodic too of course. Stand-outs early on are the melodic rock of Midnight Angel; the majestic ballad Don't Fall Asleep and rockers Live Til You Die and Burning River. The closing sentimental old-school Magnum styled The Valley Of Tears is also great. Another winner without doubt and probably once again, their best since reforming.
The Radio Sun – Wrong Things Right (MRR, May)
I'd be remiss if I didn't get a word in on one of my own label releases coming up. Due out in May on MRR, the debut album from Melbourne, Australia's The Radio Sun is something I'm very proud to be involved in. Formerly known as Square One, I think fans of power pop and harmony filled melodic rock with a modern twist are going to love this. For fans of Nelson, Rick Springfield, Marvelous 3 and Firehouse. More audio previews coming up. The album was produced mixed by Paul Laine.
Asia – Gravitas (Frontiers, March 21)
To be honest, the jury is still out for me on this one. It could be a little more varied, but it's not as slow as first thought. I need to live with it a bit longer to see if the melodies reveal themselves further, or the very laid back vocal approach of John Wetton sinks them.
LRS – Down To The Core (Frontiers, March 21)
This is one for the fans of super smooth, pure AOR. Welcome back Tommy La Verdi, with Josh Ramos delivering his best guitar work and Mike Shotton beating away on drums. With Alessandro Del Vecchio in control, the album sounds silky smooth with some fine 80s inspired AOR on offer over the albums 12 tracks. It's one of those albums that develops over time, revealing different layers as you go. What appears simplistic on first impression is actually quite complex and that's the story of the songs on this album. There are 4-5 ballads, but they all offer something different and each one features a stunning vocal. Same for the melodic rock/AOR tunes – La Verdi is simply a force to be reckoned with and I can't imagine a better team backing him up. It's been way to long between albums for Josh Ramos. This one will be popular, guaranteed.
xxxxxx
WAMI PREPARE TO KILL THE KING: WAMI, a new exciting project will see the light of day in May. The album entitled Kill the King will give a new meaning to hard'n'heavy music! The names associated with it are true legends on the hard rock scene: on the vocals - Doogie White (Rainbow, Michael Schenker, Yngwie Malmsteen), on the drums - Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell, DIO), on the bass - Marco Mendoza (Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake), who join forces with the 16-year-old Polish guitarist Iggy Gwadera, who made his debut 2 years ago as the guitarist of Anti Tank Nun. The band has just revealed the artwork and tracklist of "Kill The King".
Tracklist: 1. The Rider 2. Young Blood 3. One More For Rock'n'Roll 4. Guardian Of Your Heart 5. Transition 6. The Resistance 7. Exodus (The Red Sea Crossing) 8. Heart Of Steel 9. Wild Woman (You Oughta Know) 10. Get Out Of My Way 11. I Don't Wanna Lose You.
Front cover illustration of the album was done by Polish graphic designer Jarosaw Wieczorek. WAMI is currently promoting the album in Poland with the track "Guardian of Your Heart", which features guest appearance by Piotr Cugowski from a popular Polish rock band Bracia. The first international single "Wild Woman (You Oughta Know)" will be officially released on March, 11.
The idea to record an album together was born after Thin Lizzy's concert in Poland. The bassist Marco Mendoza, delighted with the young guitarist Iggy, who supported Thin Lizzy with his band Anti Tank Nun, suggested that they record some music together. This first idea, which was maturing for the next dozen-odd months, eventually evolved into the project involving legendary musicians, who are currently recording a brand new album together with Iggy. The drummer Vinny Appice, renowned for playing in some of the best heavy metal bands of worldwide fame, as also the bassist Marco Mendoza have already finished recording bass and drum tracks in Los Angeles. In late November 2013, Doogie White confronted his vocal talent with Iggy's guitar technique during their recording sessions in Poland. Hard rock fans can well expect the results of these sessions to be truly outstanding!
Official pages: www.facebook.com/WAMIband / twitter.com/WAMIBand.
STREAM OF PASSION JOINS FORCES WITH THEIR FANS TO CREATE A WAR OF OUR OWN:
On April 18 the Dutch metal band Stream of Passion will release their new album A War of Our Own through Pias/Rough Trade. The album was made possible by an international crowd funding campaign, through which fans were able to raise a record breaking amount of €44.000 by bidding on band related items and interactions. A War Of Our Own is the result of the struggle the band had to endure after they decided to part ways with their record label and continue on their own path.
Leader of the pack Marcela Bovio: "A corporate impasse such as this affects your peace of mind. The idea of crowd funding changed everything. It was heart-warming to see how many people were prepared to support us and what they were willing to do to secure our future. Through this we've grown closer to our fans, they played a major part in creating this album."
The red thread of the album is conflict in all its forms: personal battles, like disease and depression, corporate battles the band was confronted with themselves, but also the turmoil that destroys a land, mainly the drug wars of Mexico, the native country of Bovio. Musically the band has perfected their sound by ambitiously pushing their boundaries; A War Of Our Own is more progressive and melodic than ever, with symphonic elements and an emotional undertone, heavy with Latin-American influences.
In the last nine years Stream of Passion has released three studio albums, and a live-CD/DVD. In the meantime the band has also been touring the world, i.a. in Europe, Canada, Russia and Israel with bands like Epica, Sirenia, Leaves Eyes and Xandria. Around the release date several Dutch shows are planned, with two additional shows in the UK, a tour in Germany and a show at the Made of Metal Fest in the Czech Republic.
A War Of Our Own-tour:
March 8 – De Peppel, Zeist, NL (Try Out)
April 18 - Bibelot, Dordrecht, NL (CD release show)
May 1 – Melkweg, Amsterdam, NL
May 2 – Effenaar, Eindhoven, NL
May 5 – Bevrijdingsfestival Limburg, Roermond, NL
May 9 – Underground, London, UK
May 10 – Dames of Darkness festival, Birmingham, UK
May 22 - Backstage, Munich, GER
May 23 - Schwimmbadclub, Heidelberg, GER
May 24 - Komplex, Schuttorf, GER
May 25 - Marx, Hamburg, GER
May 28 - Underground, Cologne, GER
May 31 - K17, Berlin, GER
August 16 - Made of Metal Festival, Hodonin, CZ
DAVID GILMOUR, NICK MASON INTHESTUDIO FOR 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF PINK FLOYD SWAN SONG THE DIVISION BELL:
Dallas, TX - February 25, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands gets closure with Pink Floyd on the 20th anniversary of their final album The Division Bell.
The 1987 Momentary Lapse of Reason album, the first without band co-founder Roger Waters, provided Pink Floyd with the comeback, certainly commercially, for which the band had hoped. Further galvanized by a sixty date world tour where they earned more than a million dollars per show, it firmly allowed David Gilmour's, Nick Mason's, and Rick Wright's claim to legitimacy as Pink Floyd to ring true. It would be seven years until they produced what would turn out to be their last, The Division Bell , a triple platinum seller and true group effort with the late Rick Wright writing and even singing lead on the song "Wearing the Inside Out". The album's underlying theme is the paradox of creeping isolation in an increasingly connected world, evidenced within their own band by the lack of communication and personal estrangement from Roger Waters which resulted in their very public "divorce". With InTheStudio host Redbeard, drummer Nick Mason chimes in with what he admits will always be a sticking point with certain Pink Floyd partisans. "There will always be people who feel Pink Floyd ended when Roger left, just as there are people who feel Pink Floyd ended when Syd Barrett left (after the first album). You can't change that, and for them that is the case. As much as I would like to convince them otherwise, I understand that is the case."
This program includes InTheStudio host Redbeard's interview with the late Rick Wright as well as touching tributes from David Gilmour and Nick Mason. Pink Floyd 'The Division Bell' / InTheStudio interview program is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/pink-floyd-the-division-bell-20th-anniversary-david-gilmournick-mason
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
ANOTHER SAD ROUND OF R.I.P.:
Another sad loss to the rock music world today with the passing of original Cry Of Love vocalist Kelly Holland.
From: www.newsobserver.com/2014/02/24/3650673/kelly-holly-lead-voice-of-cry.html#storylink=cpy: "Singer Kelly Holland always loved to hold court and tell bad jokes, especially to the fairer sex. That continued even when the former Cry of Love frontman was in the latter stages of a severe abdominal infection, which ended his life early Monday. "A buddy went to see Kelly at the hospital a few days ago and it was obvious he was not feeling too good," said Backsliders drummer Jeff Dennis, one of Holland's old band mates. "But then these girls came into his room, and he just lit up and started telling jokes. Comedy was his way of bringing people into his universe."
Holland was 52 years old and is survived by his son, 18-year-old Elijah Holland of Sacramento, Calif. Holland will be best-remembered for his time in Cry of Love, a Raleigh rock band whose 1993 debut album "Brother" sold more than 200,000 copies."
Michael Kenneth Raptis January 1969 to February 2014 / The passing of Mike Raptis has deeply saddened us all. Mike was always a live wire, and souls that burn that brightly usually do not remain in this plane for too long. Even though Dead On had disbanded years ago, and several members have not had much contact with one another over that time, we will always be band mates, eternally locked in time and place. There is a brotherhood that is borne from those moments in time that is timeless. We wish Mike's family peace during their most difficult time now, and in the days to come. RIP the Reaper…you will be missed.
R.I.P. Kelly, Michael and the great Harold Ramis too...
NEW SINGER FOR UPCOMING CHICAGO METAL ACT HESSLER:
Chicago, Illinois heavy metal band Hessler, would like to welcome their new singer, Jessikill. Following former vocalist Lariyah Daniels departure, she was the perfect fit for the music and personality of the band. Jessikill, a native of San Antonio, Texas is a classically trained vocalist and appeared on the national X-Factor television show in 2012, where she received critical acclaim from the panel of judges which included show creator Simon Cowell, international superstar Britney Spears, Disney recording artist Demi Lovato and record industry mogul L.A. Reid. The band began rehearsals in late January 2014 and entered the studio on February 1st. They recorded three songs for an upcoming Maxi-single to be released in late March, which will be followed by the March Metal Madness Midwest / East Coast U.S. tour. The bands new music video for the single "Never Lost My Way", was released on February 21, 2014 and is the first recording with Jessikill.
Hessler is currently working on more new material and planning for extensive domestic and international touring throughout 2014.
Hessler have performed at SXSW and Rocklahoma in 2012 and 2013, Summerfest in 2012 and shared the stage with Slash, Buckcherry, All That Remains, Steel Panther, W.A.S.P., Sebastian Bach, Ratt, Mushroomhead, U.F.O., Cinderella, Loudness, Doro Pesch, U.D.O., Skid Row, L.A. Guns, Blaze Bayley (Iron Maiden), Sister Sin, Crashdiet, Otep, Butcher Babies, Wednesday 13, The Last Vegas, Vampires Everywhere, and many more.
Tour dates - March Metal Madness:
3/20/2014 Chicago, IL - (1st cd release show)
3/21/2014 Janesville, WI - with Jake E. Lee's Red Dragon Cartel
3/22/2014 Minneapolis, MN - with Jake E. Lee's Red Dragon Cartel
3/24/2014 Fort Wayne, IN
3/25/2014 Pittsburgh, PA
3/26/2014 Philadelphia, PA
3/27/2014 NYC, NY
3/28/2014 Pennellville, NY
3/29/2014 Cleveland, OH
Official websites: www.hesslerchicago.com / www.facebook.com/Hesslerchicago.
xx
MELODIC BRIEFS:
The eponymously titled Lyn Christopher album issued in 1973 by Paramount Records is being digitally re-released by Universal Music Group on March 11th. The album has kept its iconic status as one of the songs has been sampled by major hip-hop artists over recent years and it contains tracks featuring members of the rock group, Kiss, on background vocals before their very own debut album was ever released. "It's been many years of struggle to finally see the world-wide release of my album once again. It's a second chance not many people get,"ť says Lyn Christopher. "I have no words to express the level of my excitement, I never thought this would come to pass." www.LynChristopher.com
This week's Double Stop features an interview with Darren Smith, going through his entire career with how he got his start, formation of Harem Scarem (and their career), the Darren Smith band album, the HS 20 year reunion and Red Dragon Cartel and news that Badlands bassist Greg Chaisson will be filling n for Ronnie in Tempe Arizona (and possibly the rest of the tour). WebLinks: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNffYtTbtGM / thedoublestop.com/episode-4-darren-smith-jake-e-lees-red-dragon-cartel-harem-scarem/
Firebrand Rock Radio and Vandenberg's Moonkings are giving you the chance to win a copy of the brand new Vandenberg's Moonkings album. Head over to: firebrandrr.com/competitions/ for full details on how to enter.
Ahead of the April 7th release of Black Label Society's new studio album Catacombs of the Black Vatican, Mascot Label Group are streaming the first single "My Dying Time" via Soundcloud. Listen to the track here – bit.ly/MTc4kz.
Monday, February 24, 2014
ICONIC ROCK VOCALIST SEBASTIAN BACH'S NEW ALBUM SET FOR APRIL RELEASE VIA FRONTIERS RECORDS:
Iconic rock vocalist Sebastian Bach's forthcoming album Give 'Em Hell has just been confirmed for an release via label home Frontiers Records on April 18 in Europe and April 22 in North America. Give 'Em Hell is the highly-anticipated follow-up to the critically-acclaimed Kicking & Screaming. To access cover art for Give 'Em Hell, please click here and see below for the full album track listing. Give 'Em Hell can be pre-ordered on iTunes and on Amazon using below link. Fans who pre-order from iTunes will be able to get the first taste of new music as the pre-order includes an instant download of the song "Hell Inside My Head", a classic loud and heavy rocker from Bach.
Of the new album, Sebastian Bach enthused, "I could not be more proud of the new CD, Give 'Em Hell. As a rock music fan myself, I listen to it every single day. As a musician, I honestly feel like I have reached a new level of album recording. As an audiophile, I could not be more blown away by the sound! The production and mastering sound so good that it's perfect to show off your high-end stereo system. Ever since my first record Skid Row on through Slave To The Grind up to Kicking & Screaming and Angel Down, I have always been concerned, first and foremost, with making quality records for my fans. And I can honestly say that Give 'Em Hell meets or even exceeds the standards set by some of the records I have put out in the past. I can't wait for you all to hear this record! Let's Give 'Em Hell in 2014 Mother Truckers!"
Produced, mixed and recorded by Bob Marlette (Black Sabbath, Shinedown, Alice Cooper) and mastered by Tom Baker (Nine Inch Nails, Rob Zombie, Seether), Give 'Em Hell features writing and playing by very special friends and guest stars: Duff McKagan (Velvet Revolver, Guns N' Roses), John 5 (Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie) and Steve Stevens (Billy Idol). Rounding up the line-up on the album are Devin Bronson on guitars and Bobby Jarzombek on drums.
Sebastian Bach has sold in excess of 20 million records worldwide as lead singer with his former band, Skid Row and as a solo artist. Far from just being a multi-platinum recording artist, the singer/songwriter/actor/entertainer has expanded his career over the past decade to include episodic television with a 5-season recurring role on the CW's hit series "Gilmore Girls", starring roles on Broadway ("Jekyll & Hyde", "The Rocky Horror Picture Show") and national touring companies ("Jesus Christ Superstar"), and has appeared regularly on MTV and VH1.
Sebastian Bach Give 'Em Hell track listing: 1. Hell Inside My Head 2. Harmony 3. All My Friends Are Dead 4. Temptation 5. Push Away 6. Dominator 7. Had Enough 8. Gun To A Knife Fight 9. Rock N' Roll Is A Vicious Game 10. Taking Back Tomorrow 11. Disengaged
12. Forget You.
L.R.S SINGLE AVAILABLE NOW: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release today of Livin' 4 a Dream, the 1st single lifted off the L.R.S. debut album Down to the Core to be released on Frontiers Records on March 21 in Europe and March 25 in North America. L.R.S. featuring Tommy La Verdi (21 Guns), Josh Ramos (The Storm, Hardline) and Michael Shotton (Von Groove, Airtime) is the new Melodic Rock sensation on Frontiers!
Started initially as a way to bring back to the public the amazing vocal talent of Tommy La Verdi, a singer which came to the attention of the fans on the fabulous 21 GUNS debut album "Salute" in 1992, the whole project morphed into a power band trio when two other well-known musicians: guitar player Josh Ramos and drummer Michael Shotton were brought into the picture by the album producer Alessandro Del Vecchio (Hardline).
The first single "Livin' 4 A Dream" sees the songwriting contribution from Larry King (Soleil Moon, Michael Thompson Band) and is a true feel good melodic rock uptempo reminiscing of Journey / The Storm sound with hints of Canadian AOR - think mid 80's Triumph.
The debut album "Down to the Core" promises to be a shining example of today's AOR music with soaring vocals from a superb vocalist who comes back into the well-deserved spotlight and some exquisite guitar playing from Ramos. This is an album not to be missed and an AOR highlight for early 2014!
LRS will also play as a live unit and their participation to Frontiers Rock Festival in Italy on May 2 and MelodicRock Fest 4 in Chicago has been already confirmed!
Order "Livin' 4 A Dream" now: www.smarturl.it/lrsliningitunes.
2012 AWARDS UPDATE:
Thanks for the awesome feedback on the 2012 MelRock Awards. They were updated slightly today as I omitted "best songs" from the Jeff Scott Soto Damage Control release, which I have now added. 2013 Awards coming up soon...
KISS CANCEL LIVE PERFORMANCE FROM HALL OF SHAME CEREMONY:
From Kiss website posted today (2/23/2014): www.kissonline.com
"To All Our Fans In Regards To The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame:
Out of respect, Ace and Peter's recent statements demand a quick response to you, our fans. Our intention was to celebrate the entire history of Kiss and give credit to all members including long time present members Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer, and additionally Bruce Kulick and Eric Carr all who have made this band what it is, regardless of the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame's point of view.
Although Kiss has moved forward far longer without them, Ace and Peter are at the very foundation of what we have built and this would all be impossible had they not been a part of it in the beginning. It is over 13 years since the original lineup has played together in make-up and we believe the memory of those times would not be enhanced. Contrary to claims made through the media we have never refused to play with Ace and Peter.
We have spent 40 years dedicated to building Kiss without quitting or wavering as the band has moved forward with huge tours and platinum albums through different important lineups for forty years, to this day. Kiss has always been a band unlike any other. That is why we started Kiss. That is why we continue Kiss. Being unlike other bands also means making choices and decisions unlike other bands.
This is understandably an emotional situation where there is no way to please everyone. To bring this to a quick end, we have decided not to play in any line-up and we will focus our attention on celebrating our induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
We are excited and are looking forward to seeing you all on the Kiss 40th Anniversary worldwide tour."
And that puts the whole "who will perform" debate to rest I guess. You know that no amount of fan pressure is EVER going to sway the minds of Mr. Simmons and Mr. Stanley. I just hope this doesn't give the HOF committee another free license to roll out some trendy and irrelevant-to-Kiss alt-rock group to cobble up some lame "tribute" to them.
THE LATEST FROM ROCK CANDY:
The following five new Rock Candy titles are available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price including postage to anywhere in the world for the next two weeks ending on March 9.
Ratt 'Out Of The Cellar' CANDY212 / Nobody was prepared for the Los Angeles hard rock explosion of the early 80s except, funnily enough, the bands themselves. Activity in the clubs on Sunset Strip had reached tipping point by the time Mötley Crüe and Quiet Riot were packing out these venues and, just like an explosion in a circus, literally hundreds of bands came tumbling out of the hills ready and willing to claim a slice of the action. Looking good and talking the talk might have worked for some but if you really wanted to hit the big time then you had to be loaded with talent and songs. Step forward Ratt. With a successful independent EP eliciting a tsunami wave of major label interest, Ratt signed with industry heavyweights Atlantic records and were put in the studio with rising production star Beau Hill (later to work with Winger, Warrant, Gary Moore) and record their debut album. Issued in 1984, the results were spectacular; a record that became a three million seller and produced two hit singles in 'Wanted Man' and 'Round And Round', elevating the band to headline status almost immediately. The secret to Ratt's success was a unique sound, great songs and great performances – especially from guitarist Warren DeMartini and vocalist Stephen Pearcy. Full of energy, unabashed enthusiasm, musical dexterity and hooks that were instantly embedded in the nation's conscience; this was a band that took no prisoners in their rise to success. Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology,16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interviews.
Track Listing: 1. Wanted Man 2. You're In Trouble 3. Round And Round 4. In Your Direction 5. She Wants Money 6. Lack Of Communication 7. Back For More 8. The Morning After 9. I'm Insane 10. Scene Of The Crime.
Ratt 'Dancing Undercover' CANDY213 / Formed in 1976, Ratt were initially based in San Diego before moving lock, stock and barrel to Los Angeles in 1980. By this time, however, only vocalist Stephen Pearcy remained from their original line up, with a new unit assembled to take the LA metal scene by storm. Establishing themselves as one of the hottest acts playing the clubs they were soon snapped up by Atlantic Records whose belief was fully justified when their debut album 'Out Of The Cellar' sold in excess of three million copies and produced a major hit single with 'Round And Round'. The band continued to rack-up further platinum awards with the follow up album 'Invasion Of Your Privacy' and played sold out arena concerts before going back into the studio to record 'Dancing Under Cover'. It was a testing time for the band, relationships were strained and cracks began to show. They had barely taken their foot of the gas pedal since recording their debut album and those close to the situation were concerned that such fast paced activity was having a detrimental effect. It's a minor miracle then that this album maintained such impressive quality. Produced, to pin point accuracy, by long-time associate Beau Hill (Winger, Kix, Warrant), the album contains a fine selection of songs in the finest Ratt tradition. Check out the swish and swagger of 'Dance', 'Body Talk' and 'Enough Is Enough'; all killer, no filler.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology,16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interviews.
Track Listing: 1. Dance 2. One Good Lover 3. Drive Me Crazy 4.Slip Of The Lip 5. Body Talk 6. Looking For Love 7. 7th Avenue 8. It Doesn't Matter 9. Take A Chance 10. Enough Is Enough.
xx
King's X 'Out Of The Silent Planet' CANDY232 / All hail to the king. The emergence of Texan based power trio King's X resonated through the music industry like a breath of fresh air. Recoiling under a barrage of hair bands, the scene was fast stagnating but it was King's X who rode into the fray like knights in shining armour, unleashing a stylistically innovative and brilliant new sound; one that would revolutionise and influence the direction of modern rock for years to come. 'Out Of The Silent Planet' is one of the finest hard rock albums of the new era pretty much laying the foundations for the coming tidal wave of grunge. They specialised in powerful detuned guitar work peeling out thick muscular riffs of the type that would soon be appropriated by future Seattle stars such as Alice In Chains and Stone Temple Pilots. That King's X provided a beacon of light in the black is in no doubt. Originally Issued in 1988, the album is stuffed to the rafters with a brace of extraordinary tunes, each with a lyrical twist that indicated that they were communicating on a far deeper level than what might have been expected from such a robust and bruising outfit. Check out tracks such as 'Shot Of Love', 'Goldilox' and the classic 'King' with its haunting refrain and unnerving defiance.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology,16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interviews.
Track Listing: 1. In The New Age 2. Goldilox 3. Power Of Love 4. Wonder 5. Sometimes 6. King 7. What Is This? 8. Far, Far Away 9. Shot Of Love 10. Visions.
Ambrosia 'One Eighty' CANDY239 / Based on America's West Coast, Ambrosia began their recording career in the mid 70s as a full blown progressive rock band, brandishing a sound that was clearly influenced by British groups like Procol Harum, Genesis and Caravan. However, with the passing of time, their style was to radically shift towards a more accessible, song based, approach, resulting in brace of melodically inclined albums that elevated the band's profile considerably. Issued in 1980 on the Warner Bother's label, 'One Eighty' was the band's fourth album and is now regarded as the high point of their AOR period. As a six man outfit, the approach is studious yet exploratory; leaving enough space for the songs to breathe and be supported by carefully executed multi-layered backing vocals and a soulful r 'n' b undertow. Comparable to other premier melodic rock acts of the period such as Toto, Player and Steely Dan, the album benefits hugely from two US top twenty hit singles, 'You're The Only Woman' and 'Biggest Part Of Me'; both of which showcase front man David Pack's world class voice. But don't go running away with the impression that their music is all sweetness and light; tracks such as 'Ready', 'Shape I'm In', 'Cryin' In The Rain' and the anthemic guitar driven 'Rock 'N A Hard Place' position the band firmly at the epicentre of a some serious and powerful hard rock. Hugely recommended.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology,12 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interview.
Track Listing: 1. Ready 2. Shape I'm In 3. Kamikaze 4. You're The Only Woman 5. Rock N' A Hard Place 6. Livin' On My Own 7. Cryin' In The Rain 8. No Big Deal 9. Biggest Part Of Me.
Ambrosia 'Road Island' CANDY240 / Ambrosia started their recording career as a full blown progressive rock band, based in Southern California, but harnessing a sound that was inextricably linked with early 70s British prog rockers. By the eighties the group had morphed into a hugely successful AOR unit, enjoying hit singles and mainstream media exposure very much in the breezy but precise style of Toto, Player and Steely Dan. Of course, the icing on the cake was vocalist David Pack, a man whose voice has been compared to such masters of the art as Bobby Kimball, Michael McDonald and Steve Perry. 'Road Island', originally issued in 1982, was Ambrosia's fifth album and in many ways saw them returning to their progressive roots composing songs blessed with ambitious arrangements. This stylistic volt-face was in part emphasised by their choice of producer, Pink Floyd engineer James Gutherie, with recording partly undertaken in London's famed Kinks owned Konk Studios. In addition, the album artwork's illustrative calligraphy (undertaken by Ralph Steadman - one time illustrator of satirical publication Private Eye) was somewhat reminiscent of Pink Floyd's 'The Wall', further emphasising their progressive rock roots. Musically brilliant, the album contains lashings of intelligently conceived tracks, such as 'For Openers (Welcome Home)' and the seven minute quasi-prog epic 'Ice Age'. Other more traditional sounding melodic rock tracks included 'Still Not Satisfied' and the Fleetwood Mac reminiscent 'How Can You Love Me' - two of the band's finest compositions.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology,12 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interview.
Track Listing: 1. For Openers (Welcome Home) 2. Still Not Satisfied 3. Kid No More 4. Feelin' Alive Again 5. How Can You Love Me 6. Fool Like Me 7. Ice Age Endings.
xxxx
TOTO DVD TRACK LISTING REVEALED:
Update from Eagle Entertainment regarding the planned April 28 release of the new Toto 35th Anniversary DVD/CD/Box:
"This spectacular live concert sees Toto celebrating their 35th Anniversary at the Atlas Arena in Lodz, Poland during their 2013 World Tour. The show epitomises the combination of craft, heart and drive that has been Toto's trademark throughout their career in a set packed with hits and classic album tracks. The individual band members have played on many of the best known and most successful records in history but when they come together as Toto they create music that is uniquely special. This is Toto at their very best."
Track Listing: 1) Intro 13 2) Medley: On The Run / Child's Anthem / Goodbye Elenore 3) Goin' Home 4) Hydra 5) St George And The Dragon 6) I'll Be Over You 7) It's A Feeling 8) Rosanna 9) Wings Of Time 10) Falling In Between 11) I Won't Hold You Back 12) Pamela 13) 99 14) The Muse 15) White Sister 16) Better World 17) Africa 18) How Many Times 19) Stop Loving You 20) Hold The Line 21) Home Of The Brave.
NEW FM EP - FUTURAMA - OUT 31 MARCH:
Monday 31 March sees the mighty FM release their monster new EP - Futurama - featuring eleven new recordings: four new studio tracks, six new live tracks and one extended mix. Running time - 57 minutes.
Tracklisting: Futurama / Cold Hearted / Bad That's Good In You / Preying On My Mind / Tough Love (Live) / All Or Nothing (Live) / Closer To Heaven (Live) / Crosstown Train (Live) / Story Of My Life (Live) / Breathe Fire (Live) / Cold Hearted (Extended Mix) "We've been busy in the studio working on the new EP and writing songs for the next album. We're really pleased with the direction the songs are taking. Previous EPs we've released have proved to be really popular with the fans and this is our biggest and best to date!" - Steve Overland.
Futurama will be released Monday 31 March 2014, distributed by Membran in the UK & Europe and is available to pre-order now from the FM webshop at: bit.ly/FMshopCDs.
WebLink: www.fmofficial.com.
NEW THUNDER LIVE ALBUM AVAILABLE: Thunder have released a new live album Back To The Black Country, recorded during two sold out Xmas shows at Wolverhampton Civic on December 20 and 21, 2013. Not to be confused with the ticket buyer CD, this one features some of the other highlights.
Tracklisting: 1. Long Way From Home 2. Heart Of Gold 3. Robert Johnson's Tombstone 4. Carol Ann 5. Long Train Running 6. Higher Ground 7. When I'm Dead & Gone 8. Everybody Wants Her 9. Empty City 10. Fade Into The Sun 11. Got To Get You Into My Life 12. Don't Wait For Me 13. I Love You More Than Rock & Roll 14. Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting.
Purchase via: www.thunderonline-shop.co.uk/product.asp?productID=188.
FIREWORKS #62 OUT NOW:
The first issue of 2014 sees Fireworks #62 packed to the rafters - it looks like it's going to be a very good year! Foreigner prepare to tour the UK and we have Mick Jones and Kelly Hansen sharing their thoughts on that, their new compilation album and what the future holds for the band. Status Quo prepare to go out with the 'Frantic Four' line up one last time and Rick Parfitt gives a very candid interview about the original quartet, the current line up and the Bula Quo movie. Within Temptation are featured promoting their new album 'Hydra', sharing magazine space with other ladies of rock such as Heart and Anette Olzon. The legendary Paul Rodgers gets all soulful with his new album, and ex-Creed frontman Scott Stapp explains all about his 'Proof Of Life' album.
We welcome back Adrian Vandenberg with Vandenberg's Moonkings, as well as spending time with Fish, Don Airey, Carl Palmer, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Yes, House Of Lords and many, many more - 42 interviews in total. So many, we put in eight extra pages for FREE! With the usual in-depth reviews of new albums, live concerts and DVDs, along with dedicated features on books and EPs, Fireworks is amazing value for money and indispensable in helping you figure out what to spend your hard earned cash on!
Also this issue is available in Canada for the first time!! And we'll be coming soon to USA (Barnes & Noble) and Japan! Things are looking bright and explosive for Fireworks!! Hard copies available in the 'mini-shop' at www.rocktopia.co.uk, along with digital download version and interviews we weren't able to fit in the magazine.
DENNIS DEYOUNG TO PERFORM IN LOS ANGELES AND FANS GET IN FOR FIVE BUCKS:
Legendary rock singer Dennis DeYoung will perform The Music of Styx at the El Rey Theater for a live TV broadcast and DVD release.
Los Angeles, CA – Dennis DeYoung, the key songwriter and vocalist behind the legendary rock band Styx highest charting top-ten hits will bring The Music of Styx LIVE to the El Rey Theater in Los Angeles on Tuesday, March 18. The performance will be simulcast on AXS Television and recorded for a DVD release that will come later in 2014. As a fan appreciation, tickets for the show are just FIVE dollars and are available immediately online, or at the El Rey Theater box office. The theater holds a 500-person floor capacity and tickets are sold on a first come basis; this show will sell out fast.
Known for his original songwriting and unique voice on long standing hit songs including "Mr. Roboto" and "Come Sail Away," DeYoung has earned the top spotlight in classic rock's hall of fame with more than 35 million albums sold during his tenure with Styx. Around the world, DeYoung's songs have become the standard of excellence that FM giants hold all bands to when generating airplay for listeners. The show at the El Rey Theater will include all of Styx top ten hits including: Babe, Best Of Times, Come Sail Away, Lady, Mr. Roboto, Too Much Time On My Hands as well as the classic anthems that fans know and love including "Blue Collar Man," "Renegade" and "The Grand Illusion," among others.
AXS (pronounced Access) TV has grown to be a top contender in the entertainment news and broadcasting realm, recently featuring some of LA's highest grossing tribute acts and featured venues, offering the rest of the world a front row seat where music happens. In it's third season, AXS has stepped up their game, shifting the focus from Tribute Acts to major headliners including Kiss, Aerosmith, Prince, the Beastie Boys and on March 18, Dennis DeYoung. Where the programs had been previously filmed in smaller venues that include the Sunset Strip's most attended locations, such as the Roxy and Whisky a Go-Go; the Dennis DeYoung performance at the El Rey Theater takes their programming to a new level of authority, capturing an historical event in the making.
The El Rey Theater has been a fixture on the Los Angeles landscape, marking its territory on the miracle mile segment of Wilshire Blvd. with an ornate art-deco street facing marquee; the El Rey Theater has been an entertainment staple since in Hollywood the 1930s. Online at www.theelrey.com, concertgoers can make advanced ticket purchases for the Dennis DeYoung performance, as well as all upcoming shows, directly through links on the website and pick tickets up at will-call. The El Rey has a floor capacity of 500 patrons with a balcony area that serves upwards of 200 people.
For information on Dennis DeYoung's current tour schedule, latest news releases and direct links to his album releases, visit www.dennisdeyoung.com.
NIGHT BY NIGHT ISSUE NEW EP:
New Night By Night EP: It's called Tune Out The Static and features 3 explosive tracks from the upcoming debut album. NxN guitarist Ben Christo says: "We think that if you like hard rock with lots of intensity, melody and meaning, you'll love this EP. It'll make you dance, it'll make you smile… and it also might make you think."
Now available worldwide, the E.P. was released in advance in Sweden in October last year as a lead-up to NxN's Swedish tour with rock monoliths Europe, which kicks off next week at the Stockholm Waterfront.
Stream to your heart's content: Spotify: spoti.fi/MDD9Im / Own the mp3: ITunes: bit.ly/1eajVzR / Amazon: amzn.to/1bOsiH4.
The band encourage you to share the links and leave a short review on Amazon/iTunes to "help build the worldwide NxN family."
WebLink: nxnofficial.com.
INTRODUCING KJETIL BY FEATURING ROBIN BECK:
Hitmusic proudly present Better Days the 4th solo album from Kjetil By. Kjetil By has this time written all song with Claudia Scott. When starting this project his intentions was to record a pop/rock album with melodic songs. To pick the musicians to this project was simple. Kjetil wanted the best and he got it! Lucky enough the well-established Robin Beck said also yes to join the project. We think it was the combination of good songs and professional hand picked musicians who convinced Robin. The feedback from her has been tremendous during the recordings and she has really put her heart and soul into this record together with her husband James Christian. The result is 10 melodic songs – we think this is commercial music with sing along factor.
Musicians on Better Days; Robin Beck – Lead and harmony vocals; James Christian – Harmony vocals (House of Lords/James Christian Solo); Kjetil By – Guitars ; Steinar Krokstad – Percussion (Age/Stage Dolls/Chris Thompson/Scott Gorham/Vagabond); Morten Skaget – Bass (Ĺge/TNT/Vagabond/Mariah Carey), Dag Selboskar – Keyboards (Da Vinci/Street Legal).
WebLink: www.kjetilby.com/Home.html.
February 28th is a day that power metal fans should mark in their calendars: Hamburg's Iron Savior release their new album Rise Of The Hero, which will be available as CD, ltd. Digipak and ltd. Vinyl (250 units black, 250 blue). Check out the Rise Of The Hero album trailer here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ie2ZyIvs7JI.
Mighty Alessandro Del Vecchio, Frontiers Records right hand man and one of the world's most acclaimed hard rock producers, songwriters, vocalists and keybordists, will be part of the Docker's Guild project on the new album. Alessandro will be mixing and mastering the album, as well as acting as A&R agent. Ale has become a great friend over the years, and I can think of no one else that can bring Docker's Guild to the next level.
Platens - No Easy Way Out (Robert Tepper Cover) - Taken from the upcoming release "Out Of The World". The line-up is: Dario Grillo: Vocals, guitars & keyboards; Riccardo Barbiera: Drum; Gabriels: Hammond & synth; Domiziano Mendolia: Bass; Guitar solo by Orazio Fontes.
Produced & mixed by Dario Grillo. Mastered by Simone Mularoni at Domination Studio (Italy)
2014 METAL ALL-STARS EUROPEAN TOUR NEWS: Death Dealer, has been officially confirmed as the opening act for the 2014 Metal All Stars European tour. Fresh off their critically acclaimed debut release War Masterť, Death Dealer will bring their high powered brand of heavy metal to Europe for the first time ever.
The band features legendary guitarist Ross The Boss (ex-Manowar), bassist Mike Davis (Halford, ex-Lizzy Borden), drummer Steve Bolognese (ex-Into Eternity), guitarist / producer Stu Marshall (Empires of Eden) and vocalist Sean Peck (Cage). Ross The Boss who will also be featured as a guitarist with the Metal All Stars show, expressed his excitement, "I can't wait to unleash this band upon the metal masses! Get there early, it is going to be an unforgettable night of music!"
Metal All Stars lineup: Vince Neil (Motley Crue), Phil Anselmo (Pantera, Down), Joey Belladonna (Anthrax), Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society), Udo Dirkschneider (U.D.O., ex-Accept), Cronos (Venom), Max Cavalera (Sepultura, Soulfly), Brian Fair (Shadows Fall), Ross The Boss (ex-Manowar), Blasko (Ozzy Osbourne), Nick Menza (ex-Megadeth), Jasin Todd (ex-Shinedown), Matt Bachand (Shadows Fall), Kobra Paige (Kobra And The Lotus), Jon Donais (Shadows Fall), Jesse Billson (Heaven Below, Level Zero), Aaron Rossi (Ministry, Prong), Bones Elias (Rock Of Ages)
Tour dates:
March 23 – Sofiia, Bulgaria, Arena Armeec
March 24 – Bucharest, Romania, Romexpo
March 29 – Istanbul, Turkey
April 1 – Minsk, Belarus, Palace Of Sport
April 3 – Stockholm, Sweden, Hovet
April 5 – Riga, Latvia, Arena Riga
April 6 – Helsinki, Finland, Hartwall Arena
April 8 – St. Petersburg, Russia, Sport Hall Yubileiniy
April 9 – Moscow, Russia, Moscow Arena
2012 MELROCK AWARDS ONLINE NOW: The 2012 MelRock Awards - Now online! I know...it's 2014 already. Only a year late! This is where I roll out my usual "it's never too late to discover or remember great music you might have missed..." line. I apologize profusely for the ridiculously late (and hopefully not too irrelevant) 2012 Awards page. The 2013 page is right around the corner...stand by...but for now, enjoy the 2012 Awards. I've made sure to complete these awards, as 2012 was truly a killer year for music. Some amazing albums were on offer, where any of the top 5-6 could have been Album Of The Year in any other year and the plethora of classic songs made Song Of The Year almost impossible to pick. The runners up are all great songs that deserve to be in your collections - do check them out if you haven't already had them in high rotation for the last 18+ months!
SHOWCASE UPDATED:
3 big showcases online today - the three new Frontiers Records releases due March 21 - Asia, L.R.S. and Pretty Maids. Check them out now.
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
GOTTHARD GO BANG APRIL 4: Gotthard's upcoming album Bang! (released April 4) will feature the following tracks (Swiss Digipak Edition): 1. Let Me In Katie 2. Bang! 3. Get Up 'N' Move On 4. Feel What I Feel 5. C'est La Vie 6. Jump The Gun 7. Spread Your Wings 8. I Won't Look Down 9. My Belief 10. Maybe 11. Red On A Sleeve 12. What You Get 13. Mr. Ticket Man 14. Thank You 15. I Want It All (Bonus track) 16. You Can't Stop Me (Bonus track).
PATTY SMYTH FINALLY TALKS ABOUT THOSE 80s VAN HALEN RUMORS: Roger Hillis from the Gannett newspapers chain was kind enough to send me the Van Halen related outtakes from his recent interview with Patty Smyth of Scandal. Read on...
"At the height of Scandal's chart success in the '80s, Smyth and Keith Mack become close friends with one of that decade's show biz power couples — Eddie Van Halen and Valerie Bertinelli. Bertinelli's 2008 autobiography went into detail about how this relationship eventually hit a few snags, both personally and professionally. It started when vocalist David Lee Roth abruptly quit Van Halen in 1985. "Eddie asked me to join Van Halen," Smyth said. "When Valerie wrote her book, she downplayed the whole thing, which I don't understand. They had asked me not to talk about it in interviews at the time, because they didn't want Sammy Hagar to feel like he was the second choice. It was a long time ago; I never bring it up, but people do ask me about it and there's no reason to deny it."
So how serious was the Van Halen proposal? "Eddie was dead serious. He wanted me to join the band, and we talked about it repeatedly. I had several problems with it," Smyth said. "I had just gotten pregnant with my daughter; I didn't want to move to California, plus those guys were partying very hard at that time. The very last time we talked about it was after a David Letterman taping in New York; we were sitting around a table with Paul Schaeffer, Danny Kortchmar and Valerie. Eddie said he needed a 'yes' or a 'no' from me so he could move on and find someone else if I wasn't interested. When I said 'no,' Eddie called Sammy."
Scandal broke up shortly thereafter for a variety of reasons, and Smyth recorded a pair of solo albums. "In retrospect, I would have loved to have played with Eddie and the guys, especially if we had used a different band name," Smyth said. "I didn't think the band should still be called Van Halen if there was a female vocalist. I haven't always made all of the right decisions from a career perspective, but things worked out in the end. If I had done that, I never would have written 'Sometimes Love Just Ain't Enough.'"
POLICE ARRESTING 1979 DEBUT OUTLANDOS D'AMOUR BEGAN 35 YEARS OF SUPERSTARDOM:
Dallas, TX - February 18, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands hosts an endearing look at the early days of The Police with guests Sting, Stewart Copeland, and Andy Summers. "Outlandos d'Amour has a certain grotesque, naive charm about it," Sting confesses in this week's 35th anniversary rockumentary about the Police debut, "but Regatta de Blanc was infinitely a better record."
Sting was absolutely correct, of course, but it was due simply to their lack of experience in the recording studio together, not the songwriting which Sting provided. That is evidenced by Outlandos' songs "Next to You", "Can't Stand Losing You" , and the quintessential "Roxanne" being performed nightly on the record-setting Police Reunion Tour of 2007-2008 (the third-highest grossing tour in history), as well as on Sting's current co-headlining tour with his songwriting idol, Paul Simon.
A famed station wagon tour of the States in 1979 proved The Police's determination to make it in America regardless of what their American label did, or didn't, do. Stewart Copeland explains to InTheStudio host Redbeard, "The (American) record company didn't even know we were on the label... My brother Ian, who was our agent, called them up and they said, 'Look Ian, we're not going to be giving them tour support, we're not going to be doing this, and we're not going to... It was like a list of what they were NOT going to do for us!" The Police 'Outlandos d' Amour' / InTheStudio interview program is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/police-outlandos-damour-35th-anniversary-sting-andy-summers-stewart-copeland.
INTRODUCING SWEDISH ROCKERS REACH:
Up and coming Swedish rock band Reach release their debut single and music video Black Lady. Inspired by bands like Whitesnake, H.E.A.T and Journey, Reach started out in 2012 and consists of four members: Alex Waghorn (lead vocals), Ludvig Turner (Guitar), David Jones (Bass) and Marcus Johansson (Drums). Their first release was a cover video of "Wake Me Up" (Originally by Avicci feat Aloe Blacc). It was a success with 400 000 and counting views on YouTube and it has received great feedback from fans and press around the world. Since then Reach have signed an album deal, started to write and record their own material and are now releasing their debut single "Black Lady".
The video was shot in their hometown Stockholm, Sweden. "Black Lady" will be available at numerous online stores including iTunes, Spotify and Amazon now. The video for "Black Lady" will also be available here: www.youtube.com/channel/UC_9sW3bIi7oD6mHhbq8rs8w "Reach has the potential to be the next big thing to force its way out of Sweden..." (Rob Evans, Powerplay magazine issue 156) "...the music of Reach will delight many. From the surging majesty of Angel trough to the fistpumping AOR of Black Lady, this another quality outfit" (ClassicRock AOR magazine issue 9)
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/reachofficialsweden / www.twitter.com/ReachSweden.
"SLASHATHON" - FIRST-EVER ARTIST-FOCUSED HACKATHON ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12 AT CAPITOL FACTORY IN AUSTIN, TX:
The Grammy-winning, iconic guitarist and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame artist Slash is heading to music week in Austin during SXSW 2014 to launch Slashathon, the first-ever artist-focused hackathon. Powered by Geeklist, Slashathon is a hackathon where developers create applications and technology within a 12-hour period. The music-oriented Slashathon will offer developers a unique challenge to create solutions for artists to engage their communities for an album release. Slashathon will take place Wednesday, March 12 at Capitol Factory (701 Brazos St., STE 1601, Austin, TX).
The Slashathon Grand Prize includes a Gibson guitar autographed by Slash, $1,000 dollars, AND the opportunity to have Slash use the winning hack with the release of his new album, coming out in late 2014. The judges for Slashathon will be Slash himself, Bram Cohen, Chief Scientist & Founder of BitTorrent, and Ben Parr, Co-founder & Managing Partner, DominateFund.
Register for the slashathon at: www.slashathon.com. *SXSW badges are not required to participate. APIs available to developers to build with include Aviary, Dolby, Leap Motion, Gimbal, Raspberry Pi, Codio.io, Elasticsearch, Mad Mimi, Yellow API and Lob. Furthr.la, and Geeklist will provide mentorship for all participants.
A pioneer in blending tech and music, Slash launched his first two music apps "Slash360" and "Slash AmpliTube" to promote the Apocalyptic Love album (2012) featuring his band Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators. The critically acclaimed album Apocalyptic Love earned Slash his two first-ever #1 rock radio hits-- "You're A Lie" and "Standing In The Sun--and stormed onto the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart at #4, marking the top rock debut for that week. Last year, SLASH also partnered with the Swedish company Rovio--creator of the popular mobile game Angry Birds--to create a theme song for the "Angry Birds Space." Slash and his band Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators are currently in the studio working on a new album to be released in the fall of 2014.
WebLinks: slashonline.com / www.facebook.com/Slash.
VINYL FRENZY FOR BLUES ROCK GREAT:
2014 is a very special year for Walter Trout. The acclaimed blues rock guitarist celebrates his 25th Anniversary as a solo artist. Following many years playing in Canned Heat and John Mayall's Bluesbreakers, 1989 was the year he struck out on his own and never looked back. For a man whose previous lifestyle and former addictions made him a candidate for early self-destruction, he has since matured into one of the world's premier exponents of blues rock. In joyful celebration Provogue Records will be releasing ten of Walter's back catalogue albums as Limited Edition Deluxe Vinyl Series. Being released throughout 2014, the high quality 180g vinyl editions will be limited to 2,000 copies per album (worldwide). The albums will have a maximum of 20 minutes of music per side for enhanced sound quality. "To have some of the best parts of my earlier recordings re-released and celebrated in high-quality audio, is a thrill of the highest order," says Trout. "I hope my friends and fans will enjoy this commemorative series as much as I will. There is something about re-hearing the music on vinyl. The warmth and the expansiveness of the sound takes me right back to the day it was recorded."
Release schedule for Walter Trout's 25th Anniversary Edition vinyl series:
3 March 14 - release date for No More Fish Jokes
7 April 14 - release date for Deep Trout
5 May 14 - release date for The Outsider
7 July 14 - release date for Positively Beale Street
18 Aug 14 - release date for Breakin' The Rules
8 Sept 14 -release date for Life in The Jungle
6 Oct 14 - release date for Unspoiled By Progress
3 Nov 14 - release date release date for Transition
1 Dec 14 - release date for Prisoner of a Dream
15 Dec 14 - release date Face The Music
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Louisiana Music Hall of Fame members, Lillian Axe, will be releasing their thirteenth album, the acoustic live, One Night in the Temple, produced by Steve Blaze, on April 15, 2014 via CME Records/Sony Music (Red) in the USA and Canada and via MelodicRock Records / Cargo Distribution for rest of the world.
Performed acoustically in an intimate setting housed in a Masonic Temple in the Bayou, with their most diehard fans, One Night in the Temple, features all their hits including, True Believer, Show A Little Love, Crucified, Misery Loves Company, Ghost of Winter, The Great Divide, Bow Your Head, Waters Rising and the crowd favorite Nobody Knows. Lillian Axe founder Steve Blaze reflects; "When I first had the idea of putting this show together, it was originally going to be a private 20 person show with acoustic guitars, vocals and no production, however, it took on a life of its own."
One Night in the Temple; will be released as 3 disc set (2CDs/1DVD and 2CDs/1Blu-Ray), housed in an elaborate digipack. Filmed in high definition, the Blu-Ray and DVD will contain the acoustic performance, fan question and answer session, videos for the songs Caged In and Death Comes Tomorrow, live concert footage from their July 4, 2013 performance at the Paragon Casino and behind the scenes footage.
The MelodicRock Records European release will be one version only - the 2CD/1DVD version, with Region 0 NTSC formatting for the DVD disc. Pre-orders will be able to be placed for the release at MelodicRock.com in March. MRR owner Andrew McNeice: "I'm excited to be involved with the guys on this release. The guys really deliver an "electric" unplugged set of their classic songs and it's an honor to have such a great name in music on the MRR label. It's also our first DigiPack/DVD release on the label, so I'm really keen to see how this release goes. Confidence is high!"
Full Track Listing: Disc 1: Waters Rising, Death Comes Tomorrow, Ghost of Winter, See You Someday, The Great Divide, Nocturnal Symphony, Sad Day On Planet Earth, Bow Your Head, Show A Little Love and Misery Loves Company. Disc 2: Crucified, The World Stopped Turning, Dyin' to Live (Shades of Blue), Until The End Of The World, The Day I Met You, The Promised Land, Nobody Knows, My Apologies, True Believer and Nobody Knows (Crowd Version).
2ND ANNUAL ROCK AGAINST MS ALL STAR BENEFIT CONCERT:
Hollywood, CA (February 17, 2014) – 2nd Annual Rock Against MS returns to the Whisky A Go-Go in Hollywood with yet another amazing All-Star line-up. The 2nd Annual has the Rock Stars returning in support of long-time friend and publicist, Nancy B. Sayle. This rock-fueled concert is to help raise awareness and funding for Sayle and her new foundation benefiting those living with MS.
Guitar Player Magazine is in the house to present Lita Ford their top award - Inspired by Chet Atkins' phrase "Certified Guitar Player"—and typically bestowed at NAMM during Muriel Anderson's All-Star Guitar Night—this award debuted in 2003 with Les Paul as the first recipient. Since then, GP has honored Duane Eddy, Nokie Edwards, Dick Dale, Larry Carlton, Tommy Emmanuel, Mike Stern, Lee Ritenour, Robben Ford, Joe Perry, and others. "Lita Ford slugged it out with the boys club in an era where female musicians who liked to rock hard had very few heroes," says Guitar Player Editor in Chief Michael Molenda. "But Lita was there, and man, did she cut a heroic figure. She was tough. She was smart. She could write a good song. And she could shred. Stinging bends. Fierce vibrato. A great sense of melody and phrasing. Since the Runaways in the late 1970s, and throughout her solo career, Lita has been a beacon of cool, and an inspiration for girls AND boys who want to express themselves through the guitar. She is the definition of a Certified Legend."
In its finishing stages, the Rock Against MS Foundation will provide services from a three (3) grant resource system, which will provide daily care, quality of life needs and emergency funding, while assisting people with multiple sclerosis (MS) to live independent and full lives. Additionally, a brick and mortar facility we will call The Rock House is in the planning stages, and will provide free of charge, multiple programs and opportunities designed to heal the mind, body and spirit of all those whose lives have been affected by MS.
When: Wednesday, March 26 Concert / Vip Meet & Greet - The Whisky A Go-Go 8901 W. Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 VIP Meet & Greet: 6:00 PM Doors: 7:00PM Show Starts at 8PM Tickets:
· General Admission - $35
· Floor - W/ Pre-Show Meet & Greet At 6pm - $100
· Balcony - Vip Meet & Greet - $150
· VIP - Reserved Booth For 4 Ppl W/ Meet & Greet - $500
· VIP - Reserved Booth For 8 Ppl W/ Meet & Greet - $1,000
Purchase: Buy Tickets Here: ticketf.ly/1mf2eJl
Sponsors: 95.5 Klos, Guitar Center, Monster Energy Drink, Schecter Guitars, D'addario, Evans, Sir, Pro Mark, Whisky A Go-Go, Rainbow Bar & Grill
MELODIC BRIEFS:
On this week's Rockposer's Roulette Dan Mann will be chatting to Steve Overland (FM) and Bob Catley (Magnum). Tune in at 7pm UK time on Firebrand Rock Radio Listening options are available here or use the Firebrand Smartphone app. Firebrand Rock Radio - www.firebrandrr.com.
This week's Double Stop Podcast interview is with Greg Fraser (Brighton Rock). They talk about his entire career including his first bands, the rise of Brighton Rock, the breakup, his time in Helix, Fraze Gang and the BR reunion: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwmjcFoY-mI / www.thedoublestop.com.
FINAL LED ZEPPELIN UK GIGS AT KNEBWORTH CHRONICLED AS NEVER BEFORE IN NEW BOOK: Led Zeppelin Then As it Was – At Knebworth 1979 (Tight But Loose Publishing) - Written and compiled by Dave Lewis
In August 1979, thousands of fans came to pay homage to Led Zeppelin as they performed what would be their last UK shows at Knebworth. Dave Lewis chronicles this milestone event in rock history with the full story behind the band's triumphant return to the stage – the build up to the event, the concerts themselves, the aftermath and the accompanying impact of their final studio album, In Through The Out Door. The book also incorporates extensive first- hand accounts from fans who attended the gigs, interviews from the time, retrospective views plus bootleg and statistic appendix chapters.
All fully illustrated in full colour with many rarely seen photos and memorabilia images. Led Zeppelin Then As It Was – At Knebworth 1979 is the book that will take you back to that field just outside Knebworth during an English summer of 1979…The concerts…the crowds…the music…the memories…the legacy… And this time there are no sleeping bags required…
Led Zeppelin Then As It Was –At Knebworth 1979 is available to order exclusively from www.tightbutloose.co.uk ''Just when you think there isn't anything fresh to be said about Led Zeppelin, along comes Dave Lewis again''. Patrick Humphries - author and journalist ''Dave Lewis, the first port of call for any serious Zep enquiry, looks back on the Knebworth concerts with the fervour of a lifelong fan and the wise head of a seasoned critic. In addition to his own well-chosen words, the author finds space to feature excitable eye witness accounts, plus interviews, photos and memorabilia to provide a complete and evocative Zep at Knebworth pictorial record''. Terry Staunton – Record Collector
About the author: Dave Lewis first heard the music of Led Zeppelin in 1969 at the age of 13. The effect has been a lasting one. He is acknowledged and respected throughout the world as a leading chronicler of the group and its individual members. Dave is the editor and founder of the long running and acclaimed Led Zeppelin magazine Tight But Loose. Established in 1978, it reaches out to Led Zeppelin fans in over 20 countries across the world. Each issue is a 32 page full colour presentation of features and interviews chronicling the world of Led Zeppelin and related artists past and present, and is designed to take every reader back to the music with fresh perspective.
Dave is also the author of a number of books on Led Zeppelin: Led Zeppelin The Final Acclaim, Led Zeppelin A Celebration, Led Zeppelin Celebration 2: The Tight But Loose Files, Led Zeppelin The Concert File, Led Zeppelin Then As It Was - At Knebworth 1979 (first edition), Led Zeppelin Feather In The Wind – Over Europe 1980 and Led Zeppelin From A Whisper to a Scream.
In his role as editor, publisher and freelance journalist, Dave continues to chronicle the work of Led Zeppelin and the solo projects of the ex-members, via the Tight But Loose website (www.tightbutloose.co.uk), magazine and books. He has also written features on Nick Drake, The Who, Rod Stewart, The Rolling Stones and Paul McCartney.
DREAM THEATER'S JOHN PETRUCCI INTERVIEWED:
Nikola Savic of Prog-Sphere.com has conducted an interview with Dream Theater's guitarist and founding member John Petrucci. Couple of excerpts from the interview can be read below:
Do you think that with two Grammy nominations we have progressive metal receiving some kind of recognition after all these years?
It definitely seems like that. I mean, this is the style that we've done from the beginning. We believe in it, and we know that all around the world there are people that appreciate that kind of music, there's fans of this style of music, it's been around for many years and our metal twist on it, it's something that we've been doing for almost 30 years now. So yeah, I think it's relevant and it's important since today's music scene is definitely reflected, not only by a lot of young bands that are fusing the style into their music, but also by being recognized by many different organizations, including the Grammy. So, it's really cool. Because it's something we love to do, we believe in it and it's great to get that kind of recognition.
The North American Along for the Ride tour kicks off on March 20 in Toronto. Will you be making any drastic changes in the setlist, comparing with the setlist you perform in Europe?
No, the set's gonna be the same and the way that we are doing things this time around it's very – there's a certain flow through the set and through the story. Everything has a meaning and a purpose, all of the songs that we chose, all of the visuals and everything. So, it's more like a storyline that goes through the show. In order to deliver in a most professional, exciting and consistent way it was important for us to keep the same set, so it's gonna be the same and I'm actually really excited to bring it in North America, because we've got incredible reactions to it here in Europe. It's a very unique set, it's a lot of music, it's an evening's worth, there's three hours and it's really intense. I can't wait to bring this to North America – US, Canada, Mexico. It's gonna be great.
You decided to take a different approach in the studio for this album. The idea was to capture the live energy of the recording session. How much did you succeed in doing so, in your opinion?
In my opinion I think that we completely succeeded in that. We had a great engineer Richard Chycki, he's set all the sounds so it's really dialed in from the beginning, so anything that we wrote and recorded from day one we were able to keep. And so there's a lot of spontaneous performances that are captured that you hear on the album. I think like doing things that way, it kind of makes the energy level and the spontaneity that much higher and that much more of an element on the album. I think we definitely succeeded, I can feel it. You know, when I listen to it, crank it up in my car or wherever, to me it's very exciting. It has a lot of attitude, energy and spirit to it.
NEW 'WILL WALLNER & VIVIEN VAIN' ALBUM TO BE RELEASED IN MAY:
British blues-rock guitarist and 'Guitar World' columnist Will Wallner and Croatian singer Vivien Vain have completed work on a new album titled 'The Battle of Clyst Heath' set for release in May 2014.
Since his departure from traditional metal band 'White Wizzard' (Earache/Century Media) in October 2013 Will Wallner has been working on new music with former White Wizzard drummer Giovanni Durst for what would become the new 'Wallner/Vain' album. Swedish bass player Bjorn Englen (DIO Disciples / Yngwie Malmsteen) also contributed bass to several tracks. The title track from the album can be heard here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmPydgf7KfY.
Will Wallner comments: "When I left White Wizzard it was assumed it was because of the difficulties we encountered on our 2013 European tour. In actual fact I was going to leave the band regardless to pursue making music I could be proud of artistically. For that reason I'm very excited about the new album me and Vivien have just finished. I set out to make an honest hard rock record which would express who I am as a musician and guitar player. I feel very fortunate to be able to have such talented musicians record alongside myself and Vivien. Every musician performs superbly without the need for auto-tune or 'chop and paste'. Heres a taste of what you can expect from our new album."
'The Battle Of Clyst Heath' was recorded in 2013 in Los Angeles, CA and Poland. The music draws heavily from British hard rock influences such as Rainbow, Thin Lizzy and Deep Purple. The majority of the album features a single line-up but once again features several legendary guest musicians. Full details will be announced shortly.
Formed in 2010 as a studio project in Los Angeles 'Will Wallner & Vivien Vain' have spent the past 3 years working with some of the most respected musicians in Hard Rock & Heavy Metal from bands including Black Sabbath, Deep Purple and Rainbow. Their debut album (Will Wallner & Vivien Vain) was released on October 8th 2012 via Polish record label 'Metal Mind Productions' with guest musicians Derek Shernian, Carmine Appice, Jimmy Bain, Vinny Appice, Tony Franklin, Brian Tichy, Rudy Sarzo and Tony Carey.
For more information go to: www.wallnervain.com.
Monday, February 17, 2014
BLACKMORE'S NIGHT IN EUROPE THIS AUGUST: Blackmore's Night have announced the dates of the forthcoming summer tour in Germany and Poland/Czech Rep.
August 1st – Krefeld, Burg Linn
August 3rd – Hanau, Amphiteater
August 6th - Kloster Hirsau, Calw
August 9th – Magdeburg, Festung Mark
August 10th – Chemnitz
August 16th - Merseburg (Saale) – Domplatz
August 21st - Ulm-Wiblingen – Kloster Wiblingen
August 23rd Erfurt - Zitadelle Petersberg
August 26th Berlin - Admiralspalast
August 28th Katowice/ Zabreze
August 31st Prague
More info on: www.blackmoresnight.com
Blackmore's Night latest album "Dancer and the Moon" is available NOW for orders! iTunes: smarturl.it/itunesdtm / Amazon:
COLDSPELL DEBUT NEW VIDEO:
The brand new ColdSpell video from the "Frozen Paradise" album that was released in September 2013 with Escape Music Ltd! The video is Directed by Daniel Lehmussaari and Produced by LiMa Studios! This is the 3rd ColdSpell album and this new album is once again mixed by the legendary Tommy Hansen (Jorn, Helloween, TNT, Pretty Maids). So get your copy and find out what its all about - www.the-music-shop.net
"AC/DC frontman Brian Johnson has confirmed the band will be back in action soon to mark their 40th anniversary. The Aussie giants – who played their first gig on December 31, 1973 – are planning to start studio work in May, then they'll deliver one concert for every year of their career. And the singer has confirmed their schedule had been put on hold while one member of the band dealt with serious health issues. Johnson tells 98.7 The Gater: "We've been denying anything because we weren't sure. One of our boys was pretty ill, so we didn't like to say anything. We're pretty private about things like this; he's a very proud man. But I think we'll be going in the studio in May in Vancouver – which means we should be getting ready. It's been 40 years of the band's existence, so I think we're going to try to go 40 gigs to thank the fans for their undying loyalty. We're happy to go out even though we're getting a bit long in the tooth – I'm really looking forward to it."
AC/DC were last on the road from 2008 until 2010 in support of 16th studio album Black Ice. The three-year trek remains the fourth-biggest grossing tour of all time, having brought in more than $440m. In 2012 Johnson said the band were considering making a follow-up, but that they'd be unlikely to tour on the same scale, commenting: "It has to be right for the boys to do anything. We're saying, 'Can we do this? We're not going to be a pale shadow of our former selves? We'll talk about it and make sure we've all got it. We're five pieces of a card – if one of us is not really there, the whole thing would just collapse, I think."
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS WITH MAT SINNER (PRIMAL FEAR), MARK BOALS (RING OF FIRE) AND RUTS DC: Rich Davenport's Rock Show this week features exclusive interviews with Mat Sinner of Primal Fear, Mark Boals of Ring of Fire, and Seggs Jennings from Ruts DC, and is available now for streaming at this link: www.mixcloud.com/richdav1/rich-davenports-rock-show-primal-fear-ring-of-fire-and-ruts-dc-interviews/
In the first hour of the show, Mat Sinner of Primal Fear talks about the band's new album "Delivering the Black", which looks set to repeat the worldwide chart success of its predecessor, "Unbreakable". Mat also selects two songs from the new release. More melodic Metal follows as vocalist Mark Boals discusses "Battle of Leningrad", the new album from Ring of Fire, his band with shredmaster Tony Macalpine and keyboard virtuoso Vitalij Kuprij, with tracks from the record.
Part 2 features a special Phil Lynott tribute, with Ruts/Ruts DC bassist and vocalist Seggs Jennings, who shares a wealth of stories about seeing Phil perform with Thin Lizzy as a fan, and then later meeting Lynott, who helped and befriended the band in the early days of their career, initially writing the song "Fanatical Fascists" for the Ruts. The song was later recorded by Phil and Gary Moore, for Moore's "Back On The Streets" album, and this version of the track is played on the show, along with Seggs' choice of Thin Lizzy and Ruts classics.
The show also features classic tracks and killer new cuts from Judas Priest, Y&T, Artillery, Wet Willie, Anthrax, Kossoff, Kirke, Tetsu & Rabbit, and The Ramones.
You can also listen on Sunday 16th February 15:00-17:00 GMT and Wednesday 19th February 22:00-00.00 GMT on www.totalrock.com.
INTRODUCING RAGDOLL:
West Australian power trio Ragdoll have been confirmed to appear at the Rocklahoma festival in Pryor, Oklahoma in the USA, alongside Motorhead, Kid Rock, Deftones, Black Label Society, Staind and more. In its 8th year, Rocklahoma takes place between May 23 and 25 and has boosted attendance figures over 100,000 in past years. Guitarist Leon Todd "we're over the moon to be invited to Rocklahoma for a third time in as many years, which is unprecedented for an Aussie band. This year our show is going to be bigger and meaner than ever and we've got some nice surprises for our American fans."
Ragdoll will follow up the festival performance with a month long club tour, their third in as many years. The 2013 "All I Want " tour saw the band play thirty days in 10 US states, alongside rock heavyweights Guns'n'Roses, Alice in Chains, Korn and Cheap Trick. Ragdoll launch their second single and video" Break You" March 21st at the Rocket Room ahead of the tour.
WebLinks: www.ragdollrock.com / www.facebook.com/ragdollrock.
DECIBEL GEEK INTERVIEWS KEN MUNRO & STEVE TURRER (MORTAL FEAR): The Decibel Geek Podcast has released an interview with vocalist Ken Munro and guitarist Steve Turrer of Toronto based band Mortal Fear. Decibel Geek writer Rich Dillon caught up with Ken & Steve and got the inside scoop from the band on their reformation and future plans. Included in the interview is discussion of the rebirth of Mortal Fear, the band history, the debut CD and what the future holds for this great reformed band.
Direct link to the interview: www.dbgeekshow.blogspot.ca/2014/02/injecting-fearan-interview-with-toronto.html.
PETE LINCOLN NEW SOLO ALBUM, "SOUL SEARCHING" OUT NOW: The Sweet frontman Pete Lincoln has had an interesting and varied career, both as a touring and recording musician with artists as diverse as Shakin' Stevens, Cliff Richard and Tina Turner, and as frontman for Sailor and since 2006 The Sweet. Featuring 12 of Pete's original songs, Soul Searching is his long-awaited solo release and showcases a variety of styles, rooted in the singer-songwriter genre. Sweet fans may be surprised, but definitely not disappointed, by this 'other side' to Pete's character, however those who have followed Pete's solo career, and his Human Juke Box shows will know just what to expect from this fine collection. The opening track, the reggae-infused All At Sea, is the first single to be taken from the album, and with its hooky chorus, gets things off to a great start. We move on through the country-rock of Be My Witness and the bluesier Wait Another Day, to the funky and cheeky Let's Have An Argument and current single, Drive. The album is available from Amazon in both CD and MP3 formats, and all online major music stores.
Visit www.petelincoln.com for more information, where you can also find Pete's other solo album, Under Cover, a collection of eleven acoustic-driven classic tracks, showcasing some of Pete's favourite covers.
Purchase the album here: www.amazon.co.uk/Soul-Searching-Pete-Lincoln/dp/B00H8F1ISI
And the brand new single, Drive, here: www.amazon.co.uk/Drive-Pete-Lincoln/dp/B00HVQPPVU/ref=sr_1_1?s=dmusic&ie=UTF8&qid=1392388397&sr=1-1&keywords=Pete+Lincoln+Drive
NEW REVIEWS: New Reviews have been added to the site - Royal Hunt, Revolution Road, Lover Under Cover, Overland, AOR and Dogface! Check them out now.
MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following 2 new live shows:
- Autograph - Baltimore, USA 1985
- Journey - Norman, OK 1983 (Superstars Concert) MRX Membership Details.
Friday, February 14, 2014
STAN BUSH & FERREIRA PRE-ORDERS OPEN - BONUS CD DEAL: MRR Pre-Sale for Stan Bush "The Ultimate" and Ferreira "V" is OPEN NOW. Official release date March 17. Pre-orders will ship out starting early March for delivery prior to release date. Each showcase contains soundbytes for all tracks!
Each disc is $15 + $5 Airmail Shipping.
ORDER BOTH AND GET BONUS CD! Choose from either MRCD7, MRCD10, Fenrik Lane or Violet Sun! Bonus discs shipped without jewel case to keep package as large letter for faster delivery.
PRE-ORDER NOW and thanks for supporting these 2 fine artists.
Stan Bush - The Ultimate (MRR018)
$15 + $5 airmail shipping worldwide. Will ship out starting early March.
Click for Showcase
Ferreira - V (MRR016)
$15 + $5 airmail shipping worldwide. Will ship out starting early March.
Click for Showcase
OR
ORDER
BOTH CDs
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Stan Bush CD & Ferreira CD
+ Bonus CD $32 (Includes Airmail Shipping)
ANETTE OLZON READY TO SHINE:
It is with great pleasure that earMUSIC welcomes another great woman of rock, joining the group of exciting female voices releasing their work through the Hamburg-based rock label (among others: Tarja, Skunk Anansie, and Chrissie Hynde). The woman in question is Anette Olzon. Anette Olzon – as every metal fan knows – has been the front woman of Finnish symphonic-metal superstars Nightwish for five years before having to leave the band in late 2012.
Although the circumstances belong to the past and Anette is the kind of artist and person who only looks forward, it is a sure fact that those five years have established Anette as one of the highlight of the rock music map on a global scale. "Does it sound like Nightwish?" It's the question that everybody would probably like to ask… It doesn't but it definitely does, would be the most accurate answer. Certainly more precise than denying it does or confirming Anette's new songs sound like her previous band.
"Shine" has been produced with the collaboration of some of the most successful teams in rock and pop in Scandinavia: the producer Stefan Örn (songwriter and producer of the 2011 Eurovision Song Contest winning track 'Running Scared'), Johan Glössner and co-produced by Anette Olzon and Johan Kronlund. The album was mixed by Kronlund, Nicklas Flykt and Ronny Lahti (known for his work with Loreen and Roxette).
The new album will be released on March 31st 2014 by earMUSIC
"I am so thrilled to finally release my first solo album," says Anette Olzon. "I've been working on it for a long time by now... The album is very personal with songs I have started writing already in 2009 but also very recent songs. The overall message of the album is that life can be really dark and filled with hardship and sadness, but you can always choose to see some light coming through, to make you stronger and full of life - making you SHINE… no matter what."
And what about the musical direction? "In the end, it is a rock album," says Anette. "Well, a pop rock album maybe, or would you call it pop metal?" We have heard this one before, haven't we?
Whether we can define "Shine" a metal album, rock, pop or "pop rock" what would be hard to miss is how strong the songs are and what an extraordinary album it is. It exceptionally masters the borders between melancholy and hope, between fragility and power, because it showcases an artist who doesn't rest on her laurels but heads boldly into the future. Because it shines.
Album Tracklisting: 1. Like A Show 2. Shine 3. Floating 4. Lies 5. Invincible 6. Hear Me 7. Falling 8. Moving Away 9. One Million Faces 10. Watching Me From Afar.
ELIZE RYD JOINS NERGARD PROJECT:
The Norwegian Melodic Metal outfit Nergard announces Elize Ryd (Amaranthe) as the next singer in the line-up for the second album and final part of the "Memorial for a Wish-saga" from 2013, an album that featured a guestline-up of wellknown names from the rock/metalscene:
Ralf Scheepers (Primal Fear) Nils K. Rue (Pagan's Mind) Ĺge Sten Nilsen (Wig Wam) Tony Mills (ex TNT, ex SHY) Göran Edman (ex Yngwie Malmsteen) Mike Vescera (ex Yngwie Malmsteen) David Reece (ex Accept, Bangaloir Choir) Michele Luppi (Secrets Sphere) Andi Kravlajca (Aeon Zen, Thaurorod) Ole Martin Moe Thornćs (Rudhira) Helge Engelke (Fair Warning) Stig Nergĺrd (Tellus Requiem) Sunniva Unsgĺrd.
The yet untitled album is scheduled for mixing during the summer of 2014 and might see a release at the end of this year or early 2015.
More singers will be announced during this summer. For more updates, follow Nergard on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nergardmusic.
PERSUADER: NEW TRACK STREAMING ONLINE:
The track "Son of Sodom", taken from the up-coming Persuader album "The Fiction Maze" is now available for streaming at YouTube. Check it out here: youtu.be/AOM3Iy1iSCI.
"The Fiction Maze" will be released in Europe on January 17th and in North America on January 21st through Inner Wound Recordings. Avalon/Marquee released the album in Japan on December 25th.
ťThe Fiction Mazeť is another step forward for Persuader as they constantly continue to develop their sound, song-writing skills and performance. Persuader describes the sound on the album:
"A lot of hard work was put into creating the perfect mix of everything we've done so far. We've expanded on the Persuader sound while keeping true to the core that is the band; heavy riffing, strong melodies, pounding rhythms and soaring vocals."
The mixing and mastering was handled by Ronnie Bjornstrom [Aeon, Apostasy, Bone Gnawer] and the production fits the album really well, giving lots of space to the more aggressive side of the Persuader sound, but without losing the melodic parts in the process.
The Fiction Mazeť is the proof that Persuader is still one of the most exciting Swedish bands, and also one of the best power metal bands there is. The performance, song-writing and production is outstanding and with vocalist Jens Carlsson [who made his best vocal contribution so far on this album] they truly stand out in the scene and The Fiction Mazeť will for sure be a big hit and a classic in the scene.
Check out an album teaser at YouTube here: youtu.be/lvJAbt3Zbsw.
"The Fiction Maze" can be pre-ordered at the Inner Wound Store [CD, vinyl, t-shirt bundles available] at: innerwound.bigcartel.com.
Check out an album teaser at YouTube here: youtu.be/lvJAbt3Zbsw
A limited 12" double gatefold edition of "The Fiction Maze" was released on February 7.
Persuader online: www.facebook.com/pages/Persuader/50270729045.
FOCUS ON METAL: EPISODE 166 – STRANGE HIGHWAYS EXIT 4: Focus on Metal: Episode 166 – Strange Highways Exit 4: Mike Fraser
This is the fourth installment of our Dio Strange Highways series. This time we turn our attention to the albums producer Mike Fraser. And as always Focus On Metal…Everything Else is Insignificant. Mike talks in depth about his role in producing Strange Highways. What it was like to work with Ronnie, Vinny, Jeff and Tracy G. The fan reaction at the time towards the sound of the album and guitarist Tracy G and more. He also discusses how he got into the production, engineering and mixing end of the music business. Plus his memories on working with the likes of David Coverdale and Jimmy Page, Blue Murder, Joe Satriani and more.
WebLinks: www.focusonmetal.net / www.castironring.com.
R.I.P. WAYNE GARDNER:
R.I.P. Wayne Gardner of Magellan - another rocker lost too soon... www.magellansongs.com.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
COMING UP ON FRONTIERS: Winger have released a 30 second teaser for the song Rat Race from their new album Better Days Comin' - due out on Frontiers Records April 18 in Europe and April 22 North America. Check it out at: soundcloud.com/officialwinger/rat-race-teaser.
Release info for the new Sebastian Bach album Give 'Em Hell will be announced in the coming days, but I can confirm the due date is also April 18/22.
And there's a brand new band project coming your way in 2014 on Frontiers - Livin' Out Loud. The band features Chas West - vocals (Bonham, Tribe of Gypsies, Lynch Mob & Foreigner); Craig Goldy - guitars (Giuffria, Dio); Sean McNabb - bass (House Of Lords, Dokken, Great White) and Frankie Banali - drums (Quiet Riot). I'm told the plan for the material is "in a House Of Lords "Sahara" vibe with slightly more hard rock feel." Stay tuned for more!
Schon "So U" Featuring Neal Schon, Marco Mendoza, Deen Castronovo out in the summer on Frontiers!
Also coming up on Frontiers - the new group project featuring Stryper's Michael Sweet and George Lynch. Sweet comments: "Been writing and arranging George Lynch and Michael Sweet songs for the new Lynch/Sweet/Tichy/Lomenzo album. Coming along well. I guess I work better under pressure (less than two weeks to get 12 songs put together). The pressure makes me focus"
Royal Hunt's bass player – Andreas Passmark – would have to sit out some dates of the European part of the tour due to family related issues. Per Schelander (Astrakhan, ex – Royal Hunt) stepped in and will be playing all shows from February 25th through March 13th.
THREE LIONS TO DEBUT WITH THEIR SELF TITLED ALBUM ON FRONTIERS IN APRIL: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of the Self-titled debut album from British Hard Rockers Three Lions on April 18 in Europe and April 22 in North America.
Three Lions are – like the name itself implies – a power trio featuring the familiar faces of former Ten and Dare members Vinny Burns on guitars and Greg Morgan on drums, along with the talented singer / songwriter Nigel Bailey. The band came about when the three musicians were introduced to each other by Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino. The guys hit it off straight away and immediately set about writing new material for an album which soon was commissioned, with Alessandro Del Vecchio who was called in to produce.
Musically "Three Lions" is British Hard Rock at the very best! Mixing the melodic approach of early Ten with the classic musical heritage of UFO, Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, these guys are about to take the Melodic Hard Rock scene by storm!
Nigel Bailey says "We were all determined to make the best album possible and are immensely proud of the songs that have made it onto the final record". From the eastern influenced Kathmandu, to the driving power of Hellfire Highway and Twisted Soul, to the heartfelt ballads Made For One Another and Don't Let Me Fall. This new album in the works promises to deliver passionate performances from the guys. "This album allowed me to show a different side to my playing whilst retaining the familiar sound and feel fans of Dare and Ten will recognise" says Vinny Burns.
Recordings were completed during 2013 and Three Lions made already their live debut supporting Snakecharmer in June 2013 and are set up to play their first international live show at the Frontiers Rock Festival in Trezzo (Milan), Italy on May 1. Hear The Roar!!!
An EPK of the album can be enjoyed following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=39IE3p0BTfA.
"Three Lions" tracklisting includes the following songs: Trouble In A Red Dress; Hold Me Down; Twisted Soul; Winter Sun; Just A Man; Holy Water; Two Hearts Beat As One; Kathmandu; Made For One Another; Magdalene; Don't Let Me Fall; Hellfire Highway; Sicilian Kiss.
Three Lions: Nigel Bailey – lead vocals and bass; Greg Morgan – drums; Vinny Burns – guitars, keyboards. Produced by Alessandro Del Vecchio. Website: www.facebook.com/threelionsuk.
STAN BUSH TALKS TO BeROCK RADIO:
Legendary Melodic Rocker STAN BUSH talks to BeRock Radio about his new album "The Ultimate" -
George: "Something To Believe" , which MelodicRock Records gave to the media, has amazing quality! A true Melodic Rock Diamond! It shows us that an amazing album is on its way. Tell us a few words about the compositions of the tracks.
Stan: Thanks for the kind words. Yeah, I think it's my best album. It took about two years to write and record everything. I co-wrote many of the songs with Lenny Macaluso ("The Touch"). The songs are about believing in yourself and going for it. There are love songs as well. It's important to try and put out a positive message. I think people don't realize how much power we have to create our own destiny. Just to dream of something more in life can make it happen!
Full Interview Link: minizine.berock-radio.com/html/interviews/pages014/stan_bush/stan_bush.html?tag=result;title;0#.UvuxUPtqOLw.
KEITH SEMPLE RELEASES SOLO SONGS NOT FOR RADIO: 7th heaven frontman Keith Semple has this week released his long awaited solo band project - Semple Not For Radio. The album is available now via: semplemusic.com / itunes.com/semple / Facebook.com/semplemusic / reverbnation.com/semple. Semple says the 13 track album was recorded with live drums, amps and "played by each of us. No auto tune or any tricks!", adding that "I've never been more proud of a product in my whole life!!"
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MAGNUM RELEASE FIRST ALBUM PREVIEW: Magnum are set to release their new album Escape From the Shadow Garden March 21-24 throughout Europe and April 1 in North America. The band has released the first sample from the album of the song Too Many Clowns. It is available for streaming at: youtu.be/7FACTwimWKM.
Not only musicians and freelance artists know this phenomenon: it's impossible to deliver top creative performances at the push of a button. You need peace, leisure, and - most of all - a certain amount of serenity to create truly great works of art. "We used to be under permanent pressure from our record companies," says Magnum mastermind Tony Clarkin. "They kept calling us, demanding hit singles and radio numbers. But that sort of thing doesn't work on demand. Now we're with SPV, where it's a totally different situation. They give us the necessary time and trust us to do the right thing. That's probably the reason why I enjoy working with Magnum again."
Clarkin's regained joy in his band is omnipresent on the latest Magnum offering, Escape From The Shadow Garden. Just like his simple yet logical work ethos: "I simply told myself: you're a passable guitarist, so you should play the guitar. As the band's guitarist and producer, I have all the freedom I need to create exactly what I feel like creating." The result of his latest burst of creativity consists of eleven wonderfully melodic rock songs, which blend all the typical Magnum ingredients, sounding in a fascinating way both timeless and classic. "This band has certain unmistakable trademarks," Clarkin explains. "Among them are my feel for melodies and Bob's unique vocal style."
Tracklisting: 1. Live 'Til You Die 2. Unwritten Sacrifice 3. Falling For The Big Plan 4. Crying In The Rain 5. Too Many Clowns 6. Midnight Angel 7. The Art Of Compromise 8. Don't Fall Asleep 9. Wisdom's Had Its Day 10. Burning River 11. The Valley Of Tears.
The cover is once again created by famous fantasy artist Rodney Matthews (Asia, Nazareth, Eloy). Three weeks after the release of Escape From The Shadow Garden Magnum set off on a huge European Tour.
DOOGIE WHITE VEHICLE WAMI ANNOUNCE ALBUM TITLE:
As previously announced, in late Spring a new exciting project WAMI (White Appice Mendoza Iggy) will see the light of day. The album entitled Kill the King will give a new meaning to hard'n'heavy music! The names associated with it are true legends on the hard rock scene: on the vocals - Doogie White (Rainbow, Michael Schenker, Yngwie Malmsteen), on the drums - Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell, DIO), on the bass - Marco Mendoza (Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake), who join forces with the 16-year-old Polish guitarist Iggy Gwadera, who made his debut 2 years ago as the guitarist of Anti Tank Nun.
The band has recently joined Facebook and twitter to keep their fans updated with the band's all activities. Feel free to join them here: www.facebook.com/WAMIband & twitter.com/WAMIBand / wamiband.com.
WAMI is currently promoting the album in Poland with the track "Guardian of Your Heart", which features guest appearance by Piotr Cugowski from a popular Polish rock band Bracia. The first international single "Wild Woman (You Oughta Know)" will be officially released on March, 11.
The idea to record an album together was born after Thin Lizzy's concert in Poland. The bassist Marco Mendoza, delighted with the young guitarist Iggy, who supported Thin Lizzy with his band Anti Tank Nun, suggested that they record some music together. This first idea, which was maturing for the next dozen-odd months, eventually evolved into the project involving legendary musicians, who are currently recording a brand new album together with Iggy. The drummer Vinny Appice, renowned for playing in some of the best heavy metal bands of worldwide fame, as also the bassist Marco Mendoza have already finished recording bass and drum tracks in Los Angeles. In late November 2013, Doogie White confronted his vocal talent with Iggy's guitar technique during their recording sessions in Poland. Hard rock fans can well expect the results of these sessions to be truly outstanding!
INTRODUCING FOUR BY FATE: John Regan issues statement about his new band with Sean Kelly, Stet Howland and Tod Howarth - Four By Fate:
"During last weekends "Beatles 50th Anniversary" Festivities, I was reminded how inspired I was by that first performance on "The Ed Sullivan Show." After that night, so many of us were set on a musical path, with the main objective of being in a Band of our own. It seems only fitting then to announce today... our New Project and Band..."Four By Fate" This has really been a while in the making, and took hold during a project that "Frehley's Comet" bandmate and Friend, Tod Howarth and I had the honor of working together on. Canadian Rock Journalist Mitch Lafon was putting together a noble effort to raise monies for Canadian Hospice Services. This was to be a Kiss Tribute Album, and everyone jumped on board to help. The album "A World With Heroes" turned into a Double Album, with appearances by some of the greatest musicians around paying homage to their favorite Kiss tunes. I am honored to be a small part of its success. To date it has raised a good deal of monies for this wonderful cause. If you get a chance...check it out!
The tracks that Tod and I recorded turned out killer, and we both realized how much we had enjoyed working together. At that point we redoubled our efforts put something new together...something we had been discussing for a while. We got Mitch on the phone, and he was the catalyst that brought this together. Mitch was excited about the idea, and his enthusiasm really set the wheels in motion. He suggested a fellow Canadian countryman, Sean Kelly for the Guitar and Vocal spot we were looking to fill. Sean is an incredible player, singer and writer...and his passion for the style of music we are going to throw down in second to none...He is a perfect fit!
At that point we presented the idea to the only man for the job of representing and looking after us all...the Legendary Danny Stanton from Coallier Entertainment ( Twisted Sister, Foreigner, and so many more ). I have known Danny since the "Frehley's Comet" days, and have always had the utmost respect for his Passion, Vision, and Drive...he is truly the Hardest Working Man in the Business in my opinion. Danny liked the concept, and suggested Stet Howland of W.A.S.P for the Drum chair. Stet is a Powerhouse...and voila...Four By Fate is a Band!!!
I want to thank Mitch, Danny, Tod, Sean, and Stet for getting on board for this fun ride, and I can't wait to fire up the engines! It is truly my honor to be working with you ALL! So, in the coming months...look out for some killer LIVE Shows, and some equally killer new music!!! We invite you to our Four By Fate Facebook page for all the latest happenings, and we look forward to seeing all our friends...old and new soon! ~ Peace...JR. Kiss 40th Anniversary Tribute album for cancer care on iTunes: itunes.apple.com/ca/album/world-heroes-kiss-tribute/id716859684.
SHOWCASE UPDATED:
Some new CD Showcases added today - the new one from Escape Music for March 21 release - Linda & The Punch and the Frontiers Records titles due for release February 21 - House Of Lords, W.E.T, Heart and Vanden Plas. Check them all out!
SOLD OUT SHOW IN SFO SET FOR WEDNESDAY NIGHT: Jack Blades checks in: Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, Billy Sheehan and myself are doing a show in Mill Valley at the Sweetwater this Wednesday February 12 to help Sammy's long time drummer Dave Lauser's wife bring awareness to her fight to get access to a drug to fight her cancer. Check out the article and letter we wrote to the FDA: washingtonexaminer.com/rocks-sammy-hagar-begs-fda-for-drug-to-save-wife-of-bands-drummer/article/2543830.
EDEN'S CURSE ANNOUNCE NEW DRUMMER: Eden's Curse are disappointed to announce the departure of Pete Newdeck from the band.
Pete has been the drummer of the group since its formation in 2006 and has been a key member of the writing team during those eight years together. However he announced to the band just before Christmas that it was his intention to leave the group due to personal and family commitments as well as wishing to concentrate on Tainted Nation, whom he fronts as their vocalist, and his activities as the drummer for UK AOR act Newman.
Bassist and founding member Paul Logue comments "We are extremely disappointed to lose such a talent as Pete, but fully understand his reasons for moving on. We are very proud of what he has built with Tainted Nation and in particular for stepping out from behind the kit with such consummate ease. Without question we will all remain great friends with Pete and wish him and Tainted Nation nothing but the greatest of success for the future ahead."
Pete himself adds "This was a difficult decision to make, yet one that was made easier due to the compassion, understanding and support I was shown by the other guys in Eden's Curse. It's basically a case of having an array of commitments, some personal and some musical, that I felt I had to prioritise. I am sure the band will not see this as a setback and I wish them the continued success they deserve and to build on the acclaimed album we just released."
The bond between both parties is further demonstrated by Eden's Curse announcing that Tainted Nation will support them on several of their up and coming shows on their "Symphony Of Sin UK Tour" in May. In the words of the late great Freddie Mercury "The show must go on..."
It is with great pleasure that Eden's Curse announces that Scotsman John Clelland (Code Of Silence) is the bands new Drummer.
Hailing from Edinburgh, John has been working with bassist Paul Logue on several album productions over the past few years, most notably the "Dark Skies Over Babylon" album by Code Of Silence, and was on obvious choice it seems. "John and I have worked together for a few years on various musical projects, especially the Code Of Silence album that I wrote and produced. I always found him a pleasure to work with. He is extremely methodical and approaches things in a very studious and professional manner. You always know when working with John that you will get absolute quality back in abundance and not just your run of the mill typical drum parts either - they are typically well thought out, crafted and executed with great precision. He is a great player and an even better person and when Pete told me that he was leaving there was only one choice in my mind. It was just a case of convincing the rest of the band what I already knew and that John would fit the ethos on what Eden's Curse stands for today" stated Paul.
John himself beamed: "I'm honoured and delighted to be the new drummer in Eden's Curse and to be part of the team. I'm really excited about touring the UK with the guys in May and working on new EC material in the future. I've been told how great the Eden's Curse fans are and I'm looking forward to meeting them all. I think you will be impressed by the set of songs that the guys have selected for the band's first headline tour. I'm looking forward to forming an all Scottish solid rhythm section!"
An introductory video to John Clelland can be viewed here: youtu.be/dmzMDdifdK8. Eden's Curse will be undertaking their first headline tour on the UK leg of the "Symphony Of Sin Tour" which will hit Britain this coming May.
The dates are as follows:
19/05/14 - Ivory Blacks, Glasgow
20/05/14 - The Railway, Bolton
21/05/14 - Snooty Fox, Wakefield
22/05/14 - Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton
23/05/14 - Yardbirds, Grimsby
24/05/14 - Static, Swansea
25/05/14 - Underworld, London
More information and ticket links can be found at www.edenscurse.com/uktour / www.facebook.com/edenscurseofficial.
R.I.P J. JAYE STEELE: J. Jaye Steele formerly of Head East/Push has sadly passed away in South Florida earlier today from cancer. More news as it comes to hand... R.I.P. JJ.
A NEW DYNAZTY SET TO RISE FROM SWEDEN:
"Third time's the charm," the old adage says. Could be. But the fourth is the fortune. With their 4th outing Renatus, Dynazty starts it history anew on February 28.
Stockholm, Sweden's Dynazty was established by hard rock loving dudes Love Magnusson and John Berg in 2007. After a wee bit of line-up tweaking and unearthing from obscurity an ace vocalist Nils Molin in 2008 the fearsome fivesome was ready to take on the world. Since then, in mere five years, Dynazty has released three albums, toured internationally, criss-crossed Sweden and made themselves a household name there e.g. by playing at the wildly popular mainstream event Melodifestivalen already twice: in 2011 as a guest, and in 2012 as a contestant, almost making the top 10 out of 3485 total songs.
The number of contestant songs alone sounds incredible, but hey – it's Sweden. Abba, the tradition of musical excellence and so forth. No need to say more? Didn't think so either. Destined for greatness right from the outset, Dynazty witnessed the first signs of widespread success with 2011's "Knock You Down", the album that rose to #21 on the Swedish Mainstream Album Charts and hit #1 on the Metal Album Charts. Its successor "Sultans of Sin", released on the Leap Day of 2012, continued the conquest with position #8 on the Mainstream Album Chart. Everything looked hunky-dory, to say the least.
Despite the on-going success, the band would not be Dynazty had they chosen to rest on their laurels. The old saying goes that "you shouldn't alter a winning team". Another says that "you shouldn't fix that which is not broken". Yet Dynazty has after the previous album done both. They've both set themselves a challenge and risen to it. After all, challenges are opportunities in disguise.
Let us quote the group themselves: "After 4 years, 3 studio albums and shows on almost every continent of the globe we took the time in late 2012 to really figure out what we wanted this band to be in the future. Updating ourselves both musically and sonically to a place where we felt that we wanted to be right now was paramount and once we started to write "Renatus" everything fell into place. Heavier and faster-paced music with big arrangements built around soaring vocal melodies is the recipe for this album and talking about firsts, this is the first album with our new bass player and band member, the first to be produced by ourselves and the first to be released on Spinefarm, Finland."
Dynazty have with "Renatus" concocted the ingredients for a sonic bomb that may well be heard throughout the world. Blah blah and yeah, yeah, we know, we know: every album you read about is told to be the best thing since sliced bread and whatnot. Just that this time you can take my word for it. "Renatus" is not your run of the mill hard rock album. And if you don't hear it yourself, you better donate your ears to someone who knows what the hell to do with them!
Tracklist: 01. Cross The Line 02. Starlight 03. Dawn Of Your Creation 04. The Northern End 05. Incarnation 06. Run Amok 07. Unholy Deterrent 08. Sunrise In Hell 09. Salvation 10. A Divine Comedy.
Line-up: Nils Molin - vocals, Love Magnusson - guitar, George Egg - drums, Mike Lavér - guitar, Jonathan Olsson - bass
WebLinks: www.dynazty.com / www.facebook.com/dynaztyband.
xx
MELODIC BRIEFS: KXM (full album audio teaser) featuring dUg Pinnick (King's X), George Lynch (Lynch Mob) and Ray Luzier (Korn): www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Zq3KpcK_lE.
A snippet of a new Jadis tune 'A Thousand Staring Eyes' which will be on the forthcoming 'Medium Rare 2' CD here: youtu.be/3A2iu_tnDCw. The album will consist of rare Jadis material, unreleased tracks, live songs, remixes and acoustic versions. Available mid-2014. The studio album See right through you is avaliable from Jadismusic.com.
SCORPIONS BEST SELLER LOVE AT FIRST STING TURNS 30:
Klaus Meine, Rudolph Schenker Share Career Retrospective InTheStudio
Dallas, TX - February 11, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands gets rocked like a hurricane by the Scorpions on the 30th anniversary of their biggest selling album Love At First Sting.
The Scorpions from Hanover Germany had been the decade-long international long shot when their 1982 album Blackout blew up Top 10 in the US, powered by the # 1 Rock radio track "No One Like You". The Scorpions' follow-up album Love At First Sting two years later soared to # 6 on the Billboard album chart with triple platinum sales while delivering a blitzkrieg of rock anthems including "Rock You Like A Hurricane", "Big City Nights" and the signature power ballad "Still Loving You". But the real story is how the Scorpions overcame unbelievable barriers of distance, language, lack of management, their lead singer's desperate throat surgery, the notorious East German Stasi secret police, and the Berlin Wall to be key players with Soviet Premiere Mikhail Gorbachev's dismantling of Communism in the Soviet Eastern Bloc. Lead singer/ songwriter Klaus Meine shares with InTheStudio host Redbeard how Rock'n'Roll helped them escape the uber guilt of Germany's Nazi past and build a future. "We were not proud of our country and our parents were not proud of our country. They just survived the (Second World) War. So rock music is the way we got out. And starting as young musicians playing English and American music, it was in a way something like an attempt to be part of the world community, to escape a place where you feel this burden."
This week's InTheStudio program celebrates the best of the Scorpions including the international hit "Wind of Change" which provided the soundtrack for freedom during the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Scorpions 'Love At First Sting' / InTheStudio interview program is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/scorpions-love-sting-30th-anniversary-klaus-meinerudolph-schenker/
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
PRETTY MAIDS DEBUT NEW VIDEO: Pretty Maids "Nuclear Boomerang" is taken from the album "Louder Than Ever" out on Frontiers Records. Pre-order now on Amazon: Louder Than Ever CD/DVD.
FINAL WORD ON JOURNEY: Final word on the silliness that has been the various Journey rumor over past week - Journey guitarist Neal Schon has dismissed rumours that vocalist Arnel Pineda wants to leave. Pineda in turn has committed his future to the band.
A report concerning apparent unrest in the Journey camp appeared briefly on the Classic Rock website last Friday morning (February 7). Our story quoted MelodicRock.com founder Andrew McNeice as saying Pineda was unsettled in his role of Journey frontman and planned to quit in 2015 to spend more time with his family. McNeice moved swiftly to contact us and point out that the comments about Pineda being unhappy "came from a third-party post on my Facebook account which was removed personally by me after alerting Journey management".
The Classic Rock story, which had been live for approximately 30 minutes, was also removed. But that was time enough for music news website Blabbermouth [and other "news" sites] to pick up on the report and publicise it further.
Schon issued the following statement [to MelodicRock.com - printed here Friday]: "Rumours couldn't be further from the truth. Arnel and I are solid… VERY SOLID. We are very much looking forward to getting out there this year and kicking some ass. We will be in rehearsal for three weeks prior to the tour and we will be revamping things to keep it fresh. I'm also heading to rehearsal with the original Santana band for a record to be recorded later this year titled Santana 4. Journey is solid as we are and planning on touring all through 2015 as well as 2014."
Pineda added: "I am as happy to be in Journey today as I was when I first joined the group. Next to my family in Manila [Philippines], Journey is my family. When I'm not working, I spend time at home with my wife and kids, and my Foundation. Now I am busy preparing for our tour with the Steve Miller Band and Tower Of Power. I wish whoever is making up these lies would put their time to good use and stop spreading these false stories." Classic Rock apologises to Andrew McNeice for any confusion caused.
SONY MUSIC SUED OVER 'EYE OF THE TIGER' SONG ROYALTIES:
The latest swing came in Illinois federal court Friday from Frank Sullivan and James Peterik, founding members of the musical group Survivor. The band is best known for its '80s single Eye of the Tiger, which rocketed up the charts after being featured in Rocky III.
Sullivan and Peterik now allege that Sony Music has stiffed them on royalties. Specifically, the plaintiffs say their 1978 recording agreement means they should be taking an even 50/50 split with respect to licensed masters. But Sony is alleged to be treating downloads off of platforms like iTunes and Amazon as "sales of records" instead of licenses. Typically, the royalty share on sales is closer to 15 percent.
That's not all. The Survivor members also say they haven't gotten any income derived from settlements with Napster, Grokster, Kazaa and others, and that Sony has improperly charged and deducted from royalties certain promotion and marketing costs.
The breach-of-contract complaint filed by Sullivan and Peterik is fairly typical except for an allegation involving their discussions with the defendant. "Indeed, a Sony representative threatened that in the event Survivor persisted in its objection, Sony would exercise what it termed 'the nuclear option' -- removal of the Survivor Masters from the songs licensed to iTunes for download by consumers, thereby wiping out that revenue stream altogether," says the lawsuit. "By threatening 'the nuclear option,' Sony has conceded that its transaction with iTunes is a license subject to termination, and not a sale, of the Survivor Masters to iTunes. If it was a sale, Sony would have no right to demand return of the songs."
Besides compensatory damages, the plaintiffs want an injunction that would prevent Sony Music from pulling music from digital outlets. A representative for Sony Music didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.
StoryLink: www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/sony-music-sued-eye-tiger-676669.
The German melodic metal band Freedom Call release their first video "Union Of The Strong" from their new album "Beyond": youtu.be/a8N58--6blA.
The Chris Robinson Brotherhood are set to unveil their third studio album Phosphorescent Harvest on April 29 via Silver Arrow Records. The band--Chris Robinson (lead vocals, guitar), Neal Casal (guitar, vocals), Adam MacDougall (keys, vocals), George Sluppick (drums) and Mark Dutton (bass, vocals)--will also hit the road in conjunction with the album's release. The tour officially starts April 29 at Terrapin Crossroads in San Rafael, CA with dates confirmed into late May (and more to be announced).
Brian Sword emailed me to advise the launch of a new weekly audio podcast called The Double Stop. It is a weekly show, with an in-depth 60 minute interview with a variety of musicians. Episode 1 just went live - part 1 of a 2 part interview with Tod Howarth. Next week will feature Greg Fraser (Brighton Rock, Fraze Gang). thedoublestop.com/episode-1-tod-howarth-ace-frehleys-comet/
Adrian Vandenberg will be the special guest on this week's Rockposer's Roulette Radio Show, chatting about the new Vandenberg's Moonkings album. Tune in at 7pm UK time on Firebrand Rock Radio Listening options are available here or use the Firebrand smartphone app.
Denied, the Swedish metal band featuring vocalist Johan Fahlberg (Jaded Heart) and bassist Fredrik Isaksson (formerly of Therion and Grave), will on Saturday 8th of February 2014 release the official video of the song "Constant of Rage" from the album, "Let Them Burn" via Sliptrick Records. The video was produced by Atomic Movie Lab and directed by Fylo. The CD "Let Them Burn" was recorded with producer Fredrik Folkare (Unleashed) and mastered at Dugout Productions by Richard Sporrong. Artwork made by Alexander Lifbom: www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LselAfV3ZM.
Tattooed Woman, the new video from Danish/German hard rockers Miracle Master, can be seen now. The clip was directed & produced by Germany's MV Video Productions. The song, is taken from Miracle Master's debut album, Tattooed Woman, due on March 7 via GoldenCore Records/ZYX Music: youtu.be/IfxfY9D5jOs.
GOTTHARD SINGLE OUT NOW:
On 4th. April 2014, it will finally arrive – Gotthard will present the second studio work with Nic Maeder: Bang!
In order to shorten the waiting time for this eagerly awaited album, we will present directly from the studio the first single. With Feel What I Feel the band demonstrates once again, that strong guitar hooks and melodious songs can be presented together. Nic Maeder proves that he has found his place in the "Gotthard Family" and is indispensable with his qualities as a singer and songwriter.
"Feel What I Feel" is the perfect precursor for an album which abounds with pure love of music and confidence. A spellbinding mix of earthy rock and fresh at the same time and with some surprising arrows in its quiver. Bang! Simply Gotthard in 2014.
Gotthard - Single Feel What I Feel - Snippet: youtube.com/watch?v=SW0qg31Feqw.
JEFF PILSON TALKS: Foreigner's Jeff Pilson sat down with rock journalist, Mitch Lafon, on Feb 7th 2014. The pair discussed Foreigner's upcoming The Soundtrack Of Summer Tour along with Styx and Don Felder. Jeff also delves into the three bands re-recording of the Eagles classic hit, Hotel California. The two further talked about Foreigner's new Europe only Double CD 'I Want To Know What Love Is - The Ballads' which features 'An Acoustic Evening With Foreigner' (a 12 song live concert recorded in July 2013 in Germany). The pair also discuss the Rock Candy Remastered releases of the Dokken classic albums: Tooth And Nail, Under Lock And Key, and Breaking The Chains as well as what the band and those albums mean to Jeff today. The interview continues with Jeff talking about producing Starships last album (Loveless Fascination - which includes the KISS cover: 'Nothing Can Keep Me From You'), his work on the new Kill Devil Hill album (Revolution Rise) and his participation on the upcoming Ronnie James DIO tribute album, This Is Your Life, featuring the likes of Anthrax, Metallica, Rob Halford and The Scorpions. Jeff also mentions plans for a new T&N album with George Lynch. Finally, Jeff reveals the Foreigner's plan for an upcoming Live DVD recording which will feature the entire Foreigner 4 masterpiece album.
WebLink: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pl6LaopPHMk.
RON YOUNG TALKS TOO:
If you are going to watch one episode of The Music Biz Weekly Podcast this is the one. The Journey of a Rock n' Roll Craftsman, an Interview with Ron Young from Little Caesar. For those of you unfamiliar with Little Caesar, they were signed to a major label deal with DGC/Geffen Records in 1989 and had two big singles, "Chain of Fools" and "In Your Arms". Positioned as the next big thing, Little Caesar were managed by a team of industry bigwigs, including Jimmy Iovine, A&R by John Kalodner, and with Bob Rock producing their debut album.
We talk with Ron about the craftsmanship of rock n' roll, living your life with passion, following your bliss, the state of the music industry (old & new), going from a major label signed act to being an independent band, and many other nuggets of creative wisdom. Ron also lets us know what he thinks about Warrant's Cherry Pie, Bob Dylan, Nine Inch Nails, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Vintage Trouble and Miley Cyrus. www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrFanrC_qSU.
NEW RIVERA BOMMA VIDEO:
Melodic Metallers Rivera Bomma featuring Mike LePond of Symphony X, Johnny Bomma ex-hades & guitar virtuoso, Rod Rivera have a new official video from their latest album "Infinite Journey of Soul". "In Blood" is the second single and video from "Infinite Journey of Soul" released worldwide on Retroactive Records. Rivera Bomma Band (Johnny Bomma, Rod Rivera, Mike LePond, Dan Prestup & Boris Zaks) are now booking National & International dates for spring, summer & fall 2014. The band will be returning to the legendary rock club Dingbatz in Clifton, New Jersey on Saturday May 10 with special guest Madysen Hatter. Watch new video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6EXUTdmAWU. For more info visit their official website @ www.riverabomma.com.
ISLAND RECORDS AND INDIEGOGO ANNOUNCE "FAN REPUBLIC" PARTNERSHIP:
London, February 5, 2014 -- Island Records and Indiegogo have announced an innovative partnership, launching "Fan Republic" as the first collaboration of its kind between a music label and a crowdfunding platform. The partnership will provide a new place to discover and support emerging artists worldwide.
Fan Republic will be a crowdfunding destination powered by "Indiegogo Outpost" and hosted by Island Records, which uniquely offers exclusive rewards for artists who reach or exceed their funding targets. These will include deals and discounts negotiated by Island Records on everything from studio rates to video production and van rental. Island Records is one of the first companies to utilize the recently announced Indiegogo Outpost feature that enables companies to host Indiegogo campaigns on their own websites.
Emerging artists using Fan Republic will also have the chance to connect directly with the highly respected Island Records A&R team, who will be evaluating all projects which reach their funding targets.
Island Records President Darcus Beese says, "A&R is the life blood of Island Records and we also have a great track record of innovation in the digital space. There are many ways for artists to take the first steps in their careers and the crowdfunding route is increasingly one of them. Fan Republic shows our commitment to finding and nurturing great new talent, alongside our partners Indiegogo through their globally respected crowdfunding platform."
To celebrate the site's launch, Island Records is offering the incentive of a single release. The winner will be selected by the A&R team from all the artists who reach their funding target within the first six months from launch–guaranteeing that at least one artist will get an Island Records release as the site gets underway.
Island Records Director of Digital Glenn Cooper says, "We are very excited about the launch of the Fan Republic partnership with Indiegogo. Crowdfunding is an important part of the digital marketing plot for many emerging artists and a great way to build a mutually beneficial relationship with their most engaged fans."
The legendary Abbey Road Studios, a key Fan Republic partner, is also offering to mix and master a single via their world-class online service, for one lucky artist who successfully funds their campaign. "Our Fan Republic partnership with Island Records is the latest example of how Indiegogo is committed to innovations and collaborations that harness the power of our open and global platform to help people fund what matters to them," said Slava Rubin, Founder and CEO of Indiegogo. Fan Republic powered by Indiegogo Outpost has the lowest administration costs of any music crowdfunding platform at 4%. Additional Fan Republic partners for launch include the following: Miloco Studios, Tiger Tours and Crossfire Productions.
For more information, visit www.indiegogo.com and follow us at www.twitter.com/indiegogo and www.facebook.com/indiegogo.
Friday, February 07, 2014
MORE MELODICROCK RECORDS PREVIEWS: MelodicRock Records has signed Stan Bush for the release of The Ultimate in Europe, with Stan's own LA Records handling the USA release.
The Ultimate is Stan Bush's 12th studio album and delivers his most electrifying work yet! Reuniting with "Touch" collaborator Lenny Macaluso for the powerful title anthem, The Ultimate sees Bush return with the kind of uplifting motivational rock that has become his signature.
Track Listing: 01) Something To Believe 02) The Ultimate 03) Heat Of The Battle 04) Love Again 05) Stand In The Fire 06) Unstoppable 07) Thunder In Your Heart 08) The Journey 09) The Memory Of You 10) If I'm Not Lovin' You 11) The Touch (Power Mix).
Pre-orders for the new album will be available from next weak right here!
MelodicRock Records is very pleased to confirm the release date for the anticipated new Ferreira album V, which will be released via MelodicRock Records/Cargo Distribution on March 17.
Pre-orders will be available from next week right here! Those pre-ordering will be the first to get the new release prior to the 17th.
Track listing: 01) Hit The Door 02) Heaven Is Her Name 03) No Friend Of Mine 04) Night To Remember 05) Midnight Romeo 06) Don't Let Go 07) Leaving Town 08) That's The Way It Is 09) Superstitions 10) Sometimes Love's Not Enough 11) In The End.
NEAL SCHON COMMENTS: Journey founder and guitarist Neal Schon was kind enough to send me a quick message after this week's round of "the annual Journey rumor mill....". here's what he had to say: "Rumors couldn't be further from the truth. Arnel and I are solid ... VERY SOLID... We are very much looking forward to getting out there this year and kicking some ass. We will be in rehearsal for 3 weeks prior to the tour and we will be revamping things to keep it fresh.
I'm also heading to rehearsal with the original Santana band for a record to be recorded latter this year titled Santana 4. Journey is solid as we are and planning on touring all through 2015 as well as 2014."
EDEN'S CURSE SYMPHONY OF SIN UK TOUR ANNOUNCED: Eden's Curse are delighted to announce their debut headlining club tour of the United Kingdom which will take place this coming May. The "Symphony Of Sin UK Tour" will visit Scotland, England and Wales stopping at Glasgow, Bolton, Wakefield, Wolverhampton, Grimsby, Swansea and London. The dates (and support acts) are as follows:
19/05/14 Ivory Blacks Glasgow Scotland w/Stormzone & Estrella
20/05/14 The Railway Bolton England w/Fahran
21/05/14 Snooty Fox Wakefield England w/Fahran & Skin&Bone
22/05/14 Slade Rooms Wolverhampton England
23/05/14 Yardbirds Grimsby England Co-Headline with Absolva plus Babylon Fire
24/05/14 Static Swansea Wales w/Tainted Nation & Mayhem Messiah
25/05/14 Underwold London England w/Tainted Nation & Dendera
Tickets for all shows are now On Sale and can be purchased from the venues directly or online at www.edenscurse.com/uktour.
The band naturally are very excited about headlining as Bassist Paul Logue confirms "Absolutely! This is a real challenge for the band and dare I say it, quite a gamble in many ways! We have been so used to going out as the opening band for such great acts like Dream Theater and Stratovarius and now it's our time to stand on our own two feet. So I guess you could say the feeling is more of nervous excitement! How many kids dream of standing up on a stage playing a headline set to their fans? I'm sure it will be amazing just getting the opportunity to play an extended set for our extremely loyal fan base that has waited patiently for this to happen. This tour is 100% for them".
Paul goes onto explain how vital the Eden's Curse fans are to the success of not just this tour but future endeavours. "They are absolutely key! We have such amazing and passionate fans in the UK and they have always delivered in the past for us. This however, is without question when we really need them the most! I appreciate that some of the shows are midweek and some people may have to travel to get there, but my experience as a regular concert goer in this country is that Rock music knows no boundaries! However the harsh reality of today's music business is that if we want to tour again in the UK we need our fans to show up in numbers to these shows and I have every faith that they will! If you are coming, bring a friend and let's have a party!"
Support on the tour will come from various established Hard Rock acts such as Tainted Nation (fronted by Eden's Curse drummer Pete Newdeck), Stormzone, Fahran (new band of former Serpentine lead vocalist Matt Black), Estrella, Skin&Bone (formerly Tara's Secret) and Dendera. Whilst the show at Grimsby will be a co-headline with Absolva (ex-Fury UK) and Babylon Fire.
Please check www.edenscurse.com/uktour for further information and details.
NEONFLY TO SUPPORT MAGNUM ON UK + EUROPEAN TOUR!: Neonfly are extremely proud to announce that they'll be once again supporting British melodic rock legends and 80's chart-toppers Magnum in April/May 2014. Neonfly were invited to support Magnum on the European leg of 2012's epic 'On The 13th Day' tour; including dates in Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, France, Czech Rep. & Holland. This Spring Neonfly will be supporting Magnum across their full 13-date UK tour, in the process playing some of the country's most prestigious indoor venues such Nottingham's Rock City and Wolverhampton's legendary Wulfrun Hall. Four Scandinavian dates & more European shows tbc round off an awesome package.
Confirmed dates with Neonfly so far are as follows:
09.04. DK-Copenhagen - Amager Bio
10.04. SE-Gotheburg - Sticky Fingers
11.04. SE-Borlange - Liljan
12.04. SE-Sandviken - Backstage Rockclun
UK TOUR
19.04. UK-Southampton - The Brook
20.04. UK-Buckley - Tivoli
22.04. UK-Oxford - O2
23.04. UK-Bristol - O2
24.04. UK-Norwich - Waterfront
25.04. UK-Leamington Spa - Assembly Halls
26.04. UK-Manchester - The Ritz
28.04. UK-Nottingham - Rock City
29.04. UK-Glasgow - Garage
30.04. UK-Newcastle - O2
02.05. UK-Holmfirth - Picturedome
03.05. UK-Wolverhampton - Wulfrun Hall
04.05. UK-London - Islington Town Hall
"Magnum are one of, if not THE best British melodic rock band, it's always a pleasure to play with them, they are a huge inspiration to us, so when you get the call to hit the road with them, you jump to the challenge" writes Neonfly singer Willy.
Neonfly have a packed year ahead including a new album release by powerhouse metal producer Dennis Ward (Unisonic, Angra, Pink Cream 69, Krokus…). Their as yet untitled sophomore release is chock full of ballsy metal & epic grandeur with lyrics that grab the head and music that grabs the heart. It drops big in late 2014, there's a stack of dates to come including more big supports and headline shows.
So keep your eyes on the skies for Neonfly. Stadium Metal For The Masses… & Beyond!
WebLinks: www.neonfly.net / www.facebook.com/NeonflyUK / twitter.com/NeonflyUK.
Human Fortress were returning to the scene with "Raided Land" in November last year. The album was well-received and became what many fans were hoping for: a return to the band's epic melodic metal roots. Here's the brand new lyric video for the song "Under Siege": www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvdOYqwy_-Q.
NEW DIO TRIBUTE DUE: The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund has announced a Dio tribute album, This is Your Life, to celebrate the life and legacy of Ronnie James Dio. Covers of his songs from Rainbow, Black Sabbath and Dio will be performed by various artists such as Metallica, Motörhead and Rob Halford. Check out the full track list below. This is Your Life will be available April 1 via Rhino. Dio lost his battle with stomach cancer in 2010.
1. "Neon Knights" – Anthrax* 2. "The Last In Line" – Tenacious D* 3. "The Mob Rules" – Adrenaline Mob 4. "Rainbow In The Dark" – Corey Taylor, Roy Mayorga, Satchel, Christian Martucci, Jason Christopher* 5. "Straight Through The Heart" – Halestorm* 6. "Starstruck" – Motörhead with Biff Byford* 7. "The Temple Of The King" – Scorpions* 8. "Egypt (The Chains Are On)" – Doro 9. "Holy Diver" – Killswitch Engage 10. "Catch The Rainbow" – Glenn Hughes, Simon Wright, Craig Goldy, Rudy Sarzo, Scott Warren* 11. "I" – Oni Logan, Jimmy Bain, Rowan Robertson, Brian Tichy* 12. "Man On The Silver Mountain" – Rob Halford, Vinny Appice, Doug Aldrich, Jeff Pilson, Scott Warren* 13. "Ronnie Rising Medley (Featuring A Light In The Black, Tarot Woman, Stargazer, Kill The King)" – Metallica* 14. "This Is Your Life" – Dio. * Previously unreleased.
NEW FATAL SMILE VIDEO - "LIKE A ROCKSTAR": Fatal Smile's brand new video for the single "Like A Rockstar" directed by Owe Lingwall, Dreamday Media is officially released & can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SkdDoKUN-Y. The bands 5´th album "White Trash Heroes" will be released by FS Records/GMR Music Group on April 7 and the band will follow up with their "White Trash Over Europe Tour" on the following dates:
Fatal Smile - "White Trash Over Europe Tour"
April 10, Garage Deluxe, Munich, Germany
April 11, Rattlehouse Rock, Bruckmühl, Germany
April 12, VMax, Leipzig, Germany
April 13, Futurum Music Bar, Prague, Czech Republic
April 25, Backstage Bar, Trollhättan, Sweden
April 26, Rockbĺten M/S Harmony. Helsingborg, Sweden
April 31, Josefs House Of Blues, Eskilstuna, Sweden
May 10, Hammersmith Visby, Sweden
May 22, Six Pence, Kristiansand, Norway
May 23, Hawk Club, Fredrikstad, Norway
May 24, Olsen Pĺ Bryn, Oslo, Norway
June 20, Skull Fest, Wervik, Belgium
June 21, High Voltage, Copenhagen, Denmark
Aug 1, Rock Out Wild, Sorsele, Sweden
Aug 2, Skogsröjet, Rejmyre, Sweden
Sept 6, Metal War Fest, Budapest, Hungary
More dates will be added, for more info: www.fatalsmile.com.
VOODOO SIX TO SUPPORT UFO IN EUROPE: Voodoo Six are very pleased to announce they will be supporting UFO in Europe this Spring. Voodoo Six are Special Guests for 10 shows in Sweden, Denmark and Germany. This European tour comes after their own headline tour of the UK in March and the band are really looking forward to returning to Europe with UFO. More European shows will be confirmed shortly.
2014 tour dates:
12 March - Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton
13 March - Sound Control, Manchester
14 March - Audio, Glasgow
15 March - Buskers, Dundee
17 March - The Cluny, Newcastle
19 March - Warehouse 23, Wakefield
20 March - Rock City Basement, Nottingham
21 March - The Underworld, London
22 March - The Craufurd Arms, Milton Keynes
23 March - The Joiners, Southampton
27 March - KB, Malmö, Sweden - w/UFO
28 March - Liljan, Borlänge, Sweden - w/UFO
29 March - Sticky Fingers, Gothenburg, Sweden - w/UFO
30 March - Denim & Leather at APT, Jönköping, Sweden - w/UFO
1 April - Godset, Kolding, Denmark - w/UFO
2 April - Empore, Buchholz, Germany - w/UFO
4 April - Räucherei, Kiel, Germany - w/UFO
5 April - Tante Ju, Dresden, Germany
6 April - Gewerkschaftshaus, Erfurt, Germany w/UFO
7 April - K17, Berlin, Germany w/UFO
4-6 July - Sonisphere, Knebworth UK
13 September - Rock & Metal Circus Festival, UK
Visit www.voodoosix.com for all the latest news.
NEW REVIEWS ONLINE!:
New Reviews are finally back online, with more to come each week from here on... Today there are new reviews for: Angeline, Red Dragon Cartel, Ring Of Fire, Primal Fear, Benedictum and REO Speedwagon Live. Read The Reviews.
Thursday, February 06, 2014
BRITISH SUPER GROUP ASIA SET TO RELEASE THE NEW STUDIO ALBUM IN MARCH ON FRONTIERS: Asia, the legendary British band, moves into the next phase of its extraordinary career with Gravitas, a brave new album that explores different musical landscapes while embracing its familiar musical past. Produced and written by band members John Wetton and Geoff Downes, Gravitas is deeply introspective within a clearly accessible sound. The album also introduces the world to Asia's new guitarist, Sam Coulson, who came at the recommendation of Mr Big's Paul Gilbert.
Scheduled for release on Frontiers Records on March 21 (Europe); and March 25 (North America), the album will be available in two configurations: a standard CD and a Deluxe Edition, that will include two bonus tracks and a DVD containing the "Valkyrie" music video, a promotional film, and footage of classic live ASIA tracks such as "Heat of the Moment," recorded with the Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra in Bulgaria.
From the title track, Gravitas, which chronicles a man's struggle in the battlefield of life, to the powerfully compelling tale of unrequited love, The Closer I Get To You, the album is a tour de force for the band whose music has become a staple to rock fans. "Pure, unadulterated and stereotypical ASIA, with raw energy, enthusiasm and free from impurities," says John Wetton. "It conveys the spectrum of emotion and colour from real life agonies to ecstatic fantasy of escapism. Great songs, fabulous performance. 'Gravitas' is ASIA by ASIA. At last." "With the addition of Sam it allowed us to take the band in a slightly different, and perhaps tougher, direction," says Carl Palmer. "As a band we have been able to grow, while at the same time, remain true to the classic Asia sound that our fans know and love."
Asia's debut album exploded onto the music scene in April,1982, and was the best selling album in the world of that year. Featuring Geoff Downes on keyboards; Steve Howe on guitar; Carl Palmer on drums; and John Wetton on lead vocal and bass; Asia was the logical successor to their collective bands of the 70s - Yes, ELP, King Crimson, UK, and The Buggles. The original ASIA reformed in 2006 for the first time in 23 years. "It always was a great live band, but this time the dragon has awakened with fresh energy, direction and purpose," says Wetton. "As with any new Asia album, putting it all together presents something of a challenge," says Geoff Downes. "Everyone involved rose way above and beyond this challenge. There is a renewed energy when we step on stage now; we can feel it and I know the fans can feel it."
For Asia's long-devoted fans, the band's return to the concert stage can not come soon enough. As Palmer says: "Performing on stage is where this band truly comes into its element. Seeing the fans reacting to our music is what makes it all worthwhile. It is the fuel that drives this train we call ASIA."
Track listing: Valkyrie; Gravitas; The Closer I Get To You; Nyctophobia; Russian Dolls; Heaven Help Me Now; I Would Die For You: Joe Di Maggio's Glove; Till We Meet Again. The Closer I Get To You (Acoustic)*; Joe Di Maggio's Glove (Acoustic)*
DVD (*): Valkyrie (videoclip), "EPK", "Heat of the Moment" (Live in Plovdiv with Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra); TBA (Live in Plovdiv with Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra); TBA (Live in Plovdiv with Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra).
*Available only on the Deluxe Edition
The new Frontiers Records YouTube promo spot is viewable below:
THE H.E.A.T IS ON!:
The long-awaited new studio album Tearing Down The Walls Released on April 14th, 2014 via earMUSIC. Featuring the new single "A Shot At Redemption" taken from the same titled 4-track EP - released February 14
"What can you say about H.E.A.T? If you don't like these energetic Swedes you must be dead inside, as this year they've shown the UK crowd how to be the most complete band on the planet." - Classic Rock Magazine
April 14th, 2014 sees the UK release of the long awaited new studio album "Tearing Down The Walls" by Swedish rock band H.E.A.T via earMUSIC. Once again the band decided the move into Bohus Studio with Grammy-award winning producer Tobias Lindell and created an explosive, fresh sound. The first sneak peak of the album is the lead single A Shot At Redemption. It confirms all that H.E.A.T showed before and more: a catchy hookline, a driven beat, the obligatory guitar solo and the raw, beyond comparison vocals of singer Erik Grönwall.
A Shot At Redemption will be released digitally as part of a 4-track EP on February 14th, 2014 via earMUSIC.
Added on top to the "A Shot At Redemption" EP are the previously unreleased "Under Your Skin", a goosebumps worthy acoustic version of H.E.A.T's "In And Out Of Trouble" and a sensual cover of one of the greatest ballads, "She"s Like The Wind". Four songs to enjoy the energetic and explosive side of H.E.A.T and their great talent for ballads, to ease the wait for the very anticipated new studio album.
"Tearing Down The Walls" – their brand new studio work – is the follow-up to the successful "Address The Nation" which was praised by media worldwide as one of the best album's in 2012 and consolidated the band's reputation as the new leading band in hard edged melodic rock. H.E.A.T had a huge hit in Scandinavia with the song "1000 Miles" in 2009 and the band's 2nd Album, "Freedom Rock" was nominated as one of the Top 50 albums in 2010 by Classic Rock Magazine UK. Since then, they have been touring all over the world, convincing everyone with their powerful performance.
In a moment when artists like Foreigner, Journey and Whitesnake are enjoying a second youth, when teenagers are re-discovering the melodic approach to hard rock which these artists have mastered and when proudly wearing their logo on T-shirts all of a sudden turned "hip", when classic hard rock songs are again in the single charts and among the most downloaded … – H.E.A.T is the hope for carrying this genre to the future. They are young, ambitious and full of energy.
H.E.A.T's music is not a revival, and it's not nostalgic. Still … it's by far the best you can have today if you love "classic rock" or "AOR" … or more simply if you think that rock music means energy, great songs, and the ambition to be on top of the world.
The band will hit the road in 2014. On March 7th they will support the Scorpions in Madrid. On October 4 they headline Saturday's MelodicRockFest 4 lineup. On October 24th they will headline Firefest in Nottingham, UK. More dates will be announced soon.
H.E.A.T line-up: Erik Grönwall - Vocals, Eric Rivers - Guitar, Jimmy Jay - Bass, Jona Tee - Keyboards, Crash - Drums.
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NEW ESCAPE SIGNING PACKS A PUNCH: Escape Music have signed on to release the debut album from Linda and the Punch - another newcomer from the European rock scene. The self-titled debut is due out in March.
Track Listing: What a Shame / Cold Cold World / Welcome To London / Wake up Dreaming of You / Nothing of Anything / Bite / Looking out for Number One / Kill the Lights / Lost for Words / Love Kills Me / Because the Night.
Linda & The Punch:Linda - vocals; Torsten Asemann - bass and vocals; Tim Edler - keys and vocals; Ralf Heyne - guitars and vocals; Oliver Ross - drums and percussion.
Linda is 21 years and hot to rock! After finishing successful her school exams ´Linda´ has devoted her life to music and now with her band ´The Punch´ she is ready to take over the world. The songs are produced by Michael Voss (Michael Schenker, Udo Lindenberg, etc) and Linda has collected some great international writers for her album such as Jeff Franzel (Taylor Dayne, NSync, Chuck Wicks), Steve McEwan (Robbie Willams, Foreigner, Eminem, James Blunt, Roger Daltrey), Herman Rarebell (Scorpions), Tommy Denander.
With special guest appearances of Mark Schulman (Pink) and Pascal Kravetz (Maffay, Bruce Springsteen) Linda and her band have done a great cover version of the anthem Because the Night once sung by Patti Smith.
Her style is fresh and wild and can be described as ´Pink meets Pat Benatar´. We have hard hitting choruses and powerful riffs backed with a solid rhythm section and great production. Songs like "What a shame" and "Bite" are stand out examples of what to expect from this talented young lady.
Linda and the Punch are like a breath of fresh air in today's complex rock world, and this brand new 11 track album is just what we all need to liven up the scene.
THE SECRET IS OUT: Secret is a new Melodic Rock project born in Murcia (Spain) in 2012. Their components are Jesus Espin (ex-vocalist of 91 Suite) and Ivan Gonzalez (ex-guitarist of 91 Suite), who, after a period of musical inactivity, and given the friendship between them, they decide to join in order to have a good time making music they like. From there a number of songs and the idea emerge in an album. Finally, the project is realized under the name of Secret and the album titled The End Of The Road. Album in progress.
Son titles: Give Up The Fight, Here With Me, Since I Feel For You, Just To Hear You Say, Bring You Down, Out Of My Life, Wherever You Go, Trust Someone, Piece Of Mind, When You Really Love Someone, Angeline, I Believe In Love.
The band has exclusively allowed MelodicRock.com to give readers a full length download of one of the upcoming album's tracks. Check it out - Download: Secret - Since I Fell For You.
CONSTANCIA ANNOUNCES NEW BASS PLAYER:
Swedish melodic progressive band Constancia is currently in the process of recording the follow-up to the debut Lost And Gone, which was released on Frontiers Records in 2009. Since bass-player Michael Mueller is busy with Jaded Heart and other projects he has decided to leave the band. Constancia are happy to announce they have now found a replacement, this time a Swedish bassist. Please welcome Linus Abrahamson! Linus is/has also been found in bands like Solar Dawn, Mister Kite, Edge Of A Circle, Nonexist and progsters Andromeda. The band still features singer David Fremberg (Andromeda, Truth), guitarist Janne Stark (Overdrive, Grand Design, Locomotive Breath), keyboard player Mikael Rosengren (Scudiero, Token) and drummer TrumPeter Svensson (Faith, Mercy, Locomotive Breath). The band's new album is set to be finished before summer and hopefully released in the fall. No label is as yet set. "Having a Swedish, and even a local, bass-player now makes it a lot easier for us to rehearse and play shows, which we intend to do once the album is out", the band says. The new album, which will feature Linus' bass-playing, is as yet untitled, but some song titles are: Greyhound Therapy, Spectres, Lucidia, Lies Within Lies, Wake Up Dreaming, Final Curtain and Don't Tread On My Heart.
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/ConstanciaSweden / www.youtube.com/watch?v=JAyg1I9veGg.
NEW SHOWCASE:
A new showcase for the February 24 released Skintrade album (AOR Heaven) has been added to the site. Check it out at: Skintrade.
Frontiers Records is excited to announce the line-up for the first FRONTIERS ROCK FESTIVAL
A three day event which will take place at the Live Club in Trezzo (Milan), Italy on May 1st, 2nd and 3rd 2014.
Tickets are on sale now!
Prices are 59.00 EURO per day OR 159.00 EURO for a 3-day combo ticket for the entire Festival.
A limited amount of 150 special V.I.P tickets are available, offering hotel accommodation,
catering, special meet & greet with the artists,
a personalized very special present from Frontiers Records and more!
All details on tickets, bands, venue details, press downloads and accreditation info are available NOW at www.frontiersrockfestival.com
Wednesday, February 05, 2014
JOURNEY & PERRY - NOT SO FAST FOLKS...:
Stories printed earlier today around the world commenting on Steve Perry talking to Neal Schon/Journey once again are totally inaccurate. I can 100% confirm there has been no business/reunion communication between the camps and while everyone is on good terms, with no issues, there are no plans for any kind of reunion or attempts to work together in the foreseeable future.
As Journey management stated to me today: "No reunion plans...all is well in the Journey camp...big tour in the US this summer - Journey/Steve Miller and Tower of Power."
I can add that Steve's recently quoted responses to media about his situation: "I haven't worked with Neal. We're trying. It's tough. I'm doing my best in that area and I can only do so much," is basically a polite answer to the question he is always going to be asked. And watching him say it on video gives it better context than the quote in text".
A couple of media outlets have seized on the week old comments suddenly, giving them new life. But don't get too excited folks. My source states that any hype is just "hot air..."
PRIMAL FEAR DELIVER THE BLACK TO THE CHARTS:
Delivering The Black, the tenth studio album from German/Swedish power metallers Primal Fear, has entered the official chart in Germany at position No. 13. The CD was released on January 24 in Europe and January 28 in North America via Frontiers Records.
After some very intense songwriting sessions and pre-production schedule, the band started to record the new CD in summer 2013 at the House Of Music studios in Germany, with bassist/producer Mat Sinner and engineer Achim Köhler (Edguy, Masterplan). The band then moved to Denmark in September to finish the album, with acclaimed producer/engineer Jacob Hansen (Volbeat, Pretty Maids, Amaranthe) handling the mix at his Hansen studio in Ribe.
"Delivering The Black" combines the strongest Primal Fear moments ever, with a well-balanced typical Primal Fear trademark riff vibe, crushing songs and some very ambitious musical journeys. The centerpiece of the album are two epic tracks, "When Death Comes Knocking" and the 10-minute opus "One Night In December", spiced with big orchestral arrangements and complex sound designs.
Classic and ultra-fresh Primal Fear riff-rockers like the title track, the album opener "King For A Day" or the groove monsters "Alive And On Fire" and "Road To Asylum" hit the bulls-eye just like the untamed speed killer "Rebel Faction". The outstanding ballad "Born With A Broken Heart" shows a new side of Primal Fear with an acoustic guitar vibe and the addition of Liv Kristine (Leaves' Eyes) on backing vocals.
Says Primal Fear singer Ralf Scheepers: "We worked hard to create our best album ever. I already felt the vibe during the pre-production that we were working on something very special this time. And now the result is just an amazing metal album I'm extremely proud of!" Sinner adds: "The songs, the production, the sound this album is a very special one for me and my career. In my view, everybody in the band just did a killer job and Jacob was fantastic choice to mix the album!"
The arrival of "Delivering The Black" was preceded by the release of the digital-only single/video "When Death Comes Knocking" on December 2 a song which sets the pace for the outstanding quality of production and songwriting displayed on the full album.
"Delivering The Black" was made available in a regular CD edition, deluxe edition with two bonus tracks and in cooperation with Soulfood Music vinyl edition and DVD and limited edition (666 copies only!) of a super-deluxe version, including a metallic eagle.
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STYX AND FOREIGNER, WITH VERY SPECIAL GUEST DON FELDER ANNOUNCE "THE SOUNDTRACK OF SUMMER" TOUR:
February 4, 2014 -- Combined, they've sold over 250 million albums worldwide. They've had 36 #1 and Top 10 smash hit singles that are still being spun on Classic Rock radio over 500,000 times every year. They've performed thousands of concerts worldwide to countless crowds. Now it's time for three of the most legendary names in rock to come together for a massive U.S. Summer tour. Styx and Foreigner, with very special guest Don Felder (former Eagles guitarist/songwriter) will join forces for the "The Soundtrack of Summer" (#thesoundtrackofsummer) three-month U.S. trek, which will kick-off May 16 in Oklahoma City, OK at the Zoo Amphitheatre. Tickets for various cities go on sale starting February 7. Fans can check out the tour's official website, www.soundtrackofsummer.com, for info about all three acts, ticket on-sale dates, and more shows that will be announced in the coming weeks. "The addition of Don Felder to 'The Soundtrack of Summer' tour means that the combined album sales of all 3 acts, as well as all the bands they were once members of, is well north of 200 million worldwide," declares Styx guitarist/singer James "JY" Young. "Certainly by this yardstick, 'The Soundtrack of Summer' has got to easily be in the Top Ten three-act concert tours to ever hit the road. 'Renegade' 'Juke Box Heroes' partying at the 'Hotel California' will be your slammin' soundtrack of a rockin' hot summer!!! What more could you ask for after this crazy cold winter we are having???" "As longtime friends, we're happy to join Styx and Don Felder for the ultimate soundtrack of summer," says Foreigner founding member and lead guitarist Mick Jones. "Our combined songs are some of America's favorite summer anthems, and we're excited to be bringing them to our fans across the country." "This tour will have the best vocalists and guitarists on the road today," exclaims Don Felder. "The sheer volume of our combined catalogs is massive and should satisfy any rock & roll fan, and rock them until they can't walk out of the place."
Don Felder--former guitarist of the Eagles, New York Times best-selling author and four-time Grammy® Award winnerreleased his second solo album (and first since 1983), Road To Forever, in October 9, 2012 and has been on tour throughout the U.S. ever since. Now, to coincide with the launch of "The Soundtrack of Summer," the album is being re-released with four additional songs, Road To Forever: Extended Edition, on March 4 via INGrooves Music Group. The album's latest single, "You Don't Have Me," will be serviced to radio in April. Felder's Road To Forever originally debuted on Billboard's "Heatseekers" chart at #27. "Girls In Black," the album's first single, reached the Top 30 on the Mediabase Rock chart while the second single, "Wash Away," co-written by Felder and Styx's Tommy Shaw and featuring Shaw's signature vocal sound, quickly jumped to #4 on the Mediabase Classic Rock chart. Felder wrote or co-wrote all the songs and performs guitar and lead vocals on the album, which boasts a long list of iconic guest performers including: David Crosby, Graham Nash, Stephen Stills, Steve Lukather, David Paich and Steve Porcaro of Toto, Randy Jackson, Styx's Tommy Shaw and others. It was produced by Felder along with Robin DiMaggio (Posse 2.0 bandleader on the "Arsenio Hall Show," United Nations' Musical Director).
Spawned from a Chicago basement in the early '70s, Styx would eventually transform into the virtual arena rock prototype by the late '70s and early '80s, due to a fondness for big rockers and soaring power ballads. Over the course of their 38-year career they've released 15 studio albums, six best-of compilations and four live albums, garnering eight Top Ten singles. Styx has sold over 30 million albums worldwide. Throughout their illustrious career, they've performed more live shows since 1999 than all of the previous years of its career combined. Two Super-Bowl appearances, Pollstar box office chart-topping tours with Def Leppard, Journey, Boston, REO Speedwagon and Bad Company (to name only a few), two more studio albums and no end in sight, Styx continues to conquer the planet, one venue at a time.
With ten multi-platinum albums and sixteen Top 30 hits, Foreigner is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales, now exceeding 75 million. Responsible for some of rock and roll's most enduring anthems including "Juke Box Hero," "Cold as Ice," "Feels Like The First Time," "Urgent," "Head Games," "Say You Will," "Dirty White Boy," "Long, Long Way From Home," and the worldwide #1 hit, "I Want To Know What Love Is," Foreigner continues to rock the charts more than thirty years into the game. Juke Box Heroes, a new compilation of digitally recorded Foreigner hits, spent over twenty weeks on Billboard's "Top 200 Albums" chart in 2013. The 2008 No End In Sight album re-entered the Billboard "Top 200 Albums" chart, joining Juke Box Heroes in July 2013. Additionally, Juke Box Heroes spent most of 2013 in the Nielsen SoundScan "Top 200 Catalog" chart. It rose to #4 in that chart in September, an astonishing feat that allowed Foreigner's catalog sales that week to eclipse those of AC/DC, Aerosmith, The Rolling Stones, Queen, Van Halen and most of their Classic Rock peers (Source: Nielsen SoundScan Top 200, September 15, 2013).
Check out "The Soundtrack of Summer" tour at any of the following stops (with more to be added in the coming weeks). Don Felder hits the stage at 7:00pm at every stop. Styx and Foreigner will alternate closing slots as listed below.
Fri 5/16 Oklahoma City, OK Zoo Amphitheatre Foreigner
Sat 5/17 Grand Prairie, TX Verizon Theatre Foreigner
Sun 5/18 Houston, TX Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Styx
Tue 5/20 Clearwater, FL Ruth Eckerd Hall Foreigner
Thu 5/22 Estero, FL Germain Arena Styx
Fri 5/23 St. Augustine, FL St. Augustine Amphitheatre Styx
Sat 5/24 Atlanta, GA Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Styx
Sun 5/25 Orange Beach, AL The Wharf Foreigner
Thu 5/29 Tuscaloosa, AL Tuscaloosa Amphitheatre Styx
Fri 5/30 Simpsonville, SC Charter Amphitheatre Foreigner
Sat 5/31 Charlotte, NC PNC Music Pavilion Foreigner
Sun 6/1 Virginia Beach, VA Farm Bureau Amphitheatre Styx
Thu 6/5 Cincinnati, OH Horseshoe Casino Styx
Fri 6/6 Chicago, IL FirstMerit Bank Pavilion Styx
Sat 6/7 Maryland Hts., MO Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Styx
Sun 6/8 Kansas City, MO Starlight Theatre Styx
Thu 6/19 Boston, MA Blue Hills Bank Pavilion Foreigner
Fri 6/20 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube Live Foreigner
Sat 6/21 Big Flats, NY Summer Stage Foreigner
Mon 6/23 Verona, NY Turning Stone Casino Styx
Fri 6/27 Mashantucket, CT Foxwoods Resort Casino Styx
Sat 6/28 Wantagh, NY Nikon Jones Beach Theater Foreigner
Fri 7/4 Scranton, PA Toyota Pavilion Foreigner
Sat 7/5 Bangor, ME Darlings Waterfront Styx
Sun 7/6 Gilford, NH Bank of NH Pavilion Styx
Wed 7/9 Canandaigua, NY Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center Foreigner
Thu 7/10 Detroit, MI Freedom Hill Amphitheater Foreigner
Thu 7/17 Minneapolis, MN Target Center Foreigner
Fri 7/18 Walker, MN Moondance Jam Styx
Tue 7/22 Denver, CO Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre Foreigner
Wed 7/23 Salt Lake City, UT USANA Amphitheatre Styx
Fri 7/25 Las Vegas, NV Orleans Arena Styx
Sat 7/26 Los Angeles, CA Greek Theatre Foreigner
Sun 7/27 Santa Barbara, CA Santa Barbara Bowl Foreigner
WebLinks: www.soundtrackofsummer.com / #thesoundtrackofsummer / www.Styxworld.com / www.Foreigneronline.com / www.donfelder.com.
CHEAP TRICK'S CINDERELLA STORY STARTED AT BUDOKAN 35 YEARS AGO, ROBIN ZANDER, RICK NIELSON REMEMBER INTHESTUDIO:
Dallas, TX - February 4, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands sit down with singer/songwriter Robin Zander and lead guitarist/songwriter Rick Nielson of Cheap Trick to hear the incredible real-life fairy tale behind the multi-platinum selling live album At Budokan.
Cheap Trick's 1977 debut album didn't even make the U.S. Billboard album charts. The band's sophomore effort, In Color peaked only at 73, so when their third, Heaven Tonight , was released in the fall of 1978 it was do or die time. Thousands of miles away, unbeknownst to the band, Japan had embraced Cheap Trick with three # 1 singles including "I Want You to Want Me" and "Surrender". A tour of the country would confirm it with the band receiving an almost Beatlemania-type reception, culminating in a sold-out performance at Tokyo's huge Budokan arena . Stateside, the decision was made to create a live album for Japan only. Cheap Trick At Budokan arrived at U.S. radio on a white label promo-only LP for the sole purpose to help promote the U.S. album Heaven Tonight. Instead it became the band's sumo blockbuster. Rick Nielson explains to InTheStudio host Redbeard how unforeseen success was.
"At Budakon was never supposed to be released outside Japan. Our manager said to us, 'These pictures (which) we had to rush out that were on the cover, it will never see the light of day in the United States.' Famous last words."
Cheap Trick 'At Budakon' / InTheStudio interview program is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/cheap-trick-at-budokan-35th-anniversary-rick-nielsen-robin-zander/
JOHN TAGLIERI AND 'SOUTHERN PARADISE' TAKE ROCKWIRED RADIO'S BEST EP AWARD HITS REVERBNATION'S TOP SPOT IN BOSTON:
(4 February 2014 - Hanson, MA) 2014 has started off huge for singer/songwriter John Taglieri. It was announced on 27 January that John won the Rockwired Radio Music Award for Best Recording (Ep) for his release Southern Paradise (Leap Dog Music / Vanity Music Group). Taglieri's 11th effort, released in April '13, has been selling steadily and helped Taglieri find a bit of a new audience with it's pop country feel. . Peaking at #5 on Amazon.com's Hot New Releases chart and with radio airplay and a video with nearly 5000 views, the Ep has made a solid name for itself. He won the Best Recording nod in a viewers voted poll on Rockwired Radio, which makes it even sweeter. "Knowing that this was decided by fans makes it really special to me..." says Taglieri. "I've been doing this a long time and to still be here and making music that people connect with means the world to me."
On top of that, Taglieri has also hit #1 on the ReverbNation Rock Charts for the Boston area. Living just south of Boston puts him in an area of great talent and great bands and artists. With all of his touring, promotion and sales, the web traffic he's created has driven him up to the top spot, with a steady stream of plays and people visiting his page.
"Southern Paradise" (single) has also broken through on the Hi-Tracks Top 100 Charts in The Netherlands. Entering the chart at #88 two weeks ago, the song is picking up steam and has moved up a couple of spots to #86 this week.
You can view the video for "Southern Paradise" here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=KK093ROaab8.
WebLinks: JohnTaglieri.com / Facebook.com/JohnTaglieriMusic.
FAHRAN TAKE TO PLEDGE MUSIC:
UK hard rock band Fahran have released the artwork from their upcoming second album "Chasing Hours". The band, now fronted by Matt Black (ex-Serpentine) are set to release the album this April. It will consist of 14 new tracks including the recent music video release on YouTube "Take This City Alive". Festival & Tour announcements are soon to follow and will be accompanied by a string of music videos.
Lead singer 'Matt' says; "We're very excited to bring out this album, we've worked really hard on capturing a wide variety of emotions and stories within a mixture of high energy rock tracks and mysterious ballads and I really feel the dynamic in this material is really bringing out the best in all of us". Fahran will release "Chasing Hours" through Pledge Music and have overtaken their goal but you can still pledge for the exclusive updates of the recording process and grab your own copy of the album at www.pledgemusic.com/projects/fahran2.
WebLinks: www.fahran.com / www.facebook.com/fahranmusic.
JAN LE BRANDT ISSUES SINGLE SEVEN:
Norwegian artist Jan Lé Brandt is tripping these days, eagerly awaiting the release of his single number seven. It is a steaming pop-rock hybrid tune that is now in the pipeline from the all-Norwegian singer with the International sounding name. The song "Cloud Nine" has an official release on Friday - January the 31st. - and will be made available in the best online stores and coolest radio stations at home and abroad. Mister Le 'Brandt has tough roots from the magnificent north of Norway, but is well lived in down south since the arrival there in his early teens. His cool voice is sometimes hoarse and rough, but occasionally also moves into a more delicate and sensitive mode. Jan masters the whole spectrum to the fullest, with his soulful presence both on stage and in the studio.
He is unknown to most people, and so far he has not participated on any of the talent pursuit shows on TV. However, this is a guy with solid on-theroad and on-stage experience as a rock musician with many bands - who has now started to realize his ambitions as a recording artist. Thus far he has six singles to his name, and with "Cloud Nine" he can proudly announce number seven.
The last single in his six-pack, "Man Enough To Cry" - triggered rave reviews, 50,000 views on YouTube in three weeks, A-Listings on two Norwegian channels, as well as rotation in both Germany, Canada and Argentina. Number seven, "Cloud Nine" - is a collaboration between Norwegian songwriters Bjorn Vang and Knut Andresen - the latter also the producer at Audiorommet - where Jan has recorded all previous singles. The team reports having more songs coming up...
WebLink: www.lebrandt.com.
COMING SOON:
Tuesday, February 04, 2014
DOCKER'S GUILD COMPETITION LAUNCHED:
Would you like to perform on 2 songs for the new Docker's Guild album and be featured along with some of today's greatest female artists in prog and metal such as Elize Ryd (Amaranthe), Amanda Somerville (Avantasia), Roxy Petrucci (Vixen), Anna Portalupi (Tarja Turunen) and many more? Docker's Guild is giving this opportunity to an upcoming and promising Female Guitarist.
Send your demos, photos and bios to: submissions@dockersguild.com.
The winner will be selected from the 10 most promising guitarists by this jury: Douglas R. Docker (Docker's Guild creator); Alessandro Del Vecchio (Ivorytears Music Works); Laurie Monk (Shreddelicious.com).
Submission deadline: March 31, 2014, Results announced on April 15, 2014
In collaboration with IMW - Ivorytears Music Works & Shreddelicious.
WebLink: dockersguild.com/2014-female-guitarist-competition.
THE LION ROARS AGAIN: Narnia, one of the world's leading bands in neo-classical metal, are back again, stronger than ever. The praised album, and also the fans' favourite, "Long Live The King" this year celebrates fifteen years since its release. This anniversary will be celebrated with bombastic live shows and a deluxe re-issue of the album on CD and limited edition vinyl.
Confirmed concerts so far in 2014:
May 24, Metallsvenskan festival in Örebro, Sweden
June 14, Goodmoodstock Festival in Pieksämäki, Finland
July 5, Gullbranna Festival in Halmstad, Sweden
More dates will be announced later.
The lion will again roar on stage, where Narnia waves the melodic metal flag high and mighty! The Narnia 2014 line-up features: Christian Liljegren (vocals), CJ Grimmark (guitars), Andreas "Habo" Johansson (drums), Martin Härenstam (keyboards), Andreas Passmark (bass).
When the explosive singer Christian Liljegren and the guitar viruoso CJ Grimmark formed Narnia in 1996, little did they know about the adventures which awaited. Tours, six albums, live album/DVD, TV, radio and trips to Japan, The Faroe Islands, Mexico and of course Europe. Narnia toured with bands such as Dio, Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica and many others. They did several festivals such as Sweden Rock Festival and Gates Of Metal, to name a few, where thousands of fans enjoyed Narnia's energetic live show, which leaves no one unaffected. When Narnia now re-unites, the band hopes to visit countries, which have not yet been given the Narnia treatment.
The summer of 2014 will be memorable, when Narnia's metal anthem Long Live The King is resurrected! For more news and updates please follow Narnia on web and Facebook: www.narniatheband.com / www.facebook.com/narniatheband.
LAWLESS PLAN MAD MARCH: Lawless feel proud to announce their Mad March 2014 UK Tour. Confirmed Dates are as follows:
08th March 2014 Legends Of Rock Festival – Great Yarmouth, UK
14th March 2014 The Sugarmill – Stoke-On-Trent, UK
21st March 2014 HRH AOR II Festival – North Wales, UK
23rd March 2014 Riverside – Selby, UK*
25th March 2014 Camden Underworld – London
27th March 2014 UK*Yardbirds – Grimsby, UK*
* Support tour with Coldspell
WebLink: www.lawlessofficial.com
JUST WANT TO SPREAD THE LOVE – THE SPIN RELEASE SINGLE ON VALENTINES DAY:
Swedish, UK based party power pop band The Spin release their new single "I Need You" digitally worldwide, on Valentine's Day, through their own label Sencelled records. This is the first single from the new album, and just like the debut it is produced by Ricky Delin. "I Need You" will be available on all major downloadable and streaming services on February 14.
The Spin are an up and coming party power pop band from Sweden. Their first release in 2011 was hugely appreciated by the press worldwide and time has come for the first release from the follow up. In the fall of 2013 the band made a permanent move to the UK to promote themselves. To find out more about the band, please visit: www.thespin.se / www.facebook.com/spinsweden.
CAPTAIN BLACK BEARD TOUR DATES:
News from Captain Black Beard: "We're proud to announce our participation in this year's Hard Rock Hell AOR Festival in Wales!! This three day festival will be headlined by UFO. We are playing on Thursday the 20th of March. After that we're heading to Wakefield where we'll be opening for one of the best singers in rock, Graham Bonnet (Rainbow, Alcatrazz, MSG, Impellitteri) and then we're playing in Chelmsford, Essex at the Asylum with the mighty Last SuperHeroes. But the fun starts already next week when we're playing with The Spin (who's also playing with us in the UK) at Pitcher's in Uppsala.
Here are the dates:
2014 February 8th @ Pitchers - Uppsala, Sweden (+ The Spin)
2014 March 20th @ Hard Rock Hell AOR - Hafan Y Mor, Wales (+ UFO)
2014 March 21st @ Warehouse 23 - Wakefield, England (+ Graham Bonnet)
2014 March 22nd @ Asylum - Chelmsford, England (+ Last SuperHeroes)
WebLink: www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6qDtp1-NlE.
Monday, February 03, 2014
SECOND FURYON UNDERWAY:
British rockers Furyon will return next week to Black Dog Sound Studios in Atlanta, US to record their sompohore yet-untitled studio album. Once again, the album will be engineered and produced by US producer Rick Beato (Shinedown, Fozzy) and his team.
Singer Matt Mitchell says: "We've worked real hard behind the scenes to make this possible. There were moments I wasn't sure it would happen but it is, and there are some killer tunes!"
After the success of thrilling debut 'Gravitas' that UK's Metal Hammer magazine promoted and covered so well, the band have a new batch of finely tuned writings. What's to be expected is more of the same explosive guitar riffs and solos in well crafted song form. Expressive vocal delivery and melodies to scream along to. A possibly darker album still with progressive elements and a grungy edge. The album aims to be a 10 song album with additions (acoustic tracks and videos). Furyon are extremely excited and looking forward to sharing the outcome of this venture with the World.
Furyon are: Matt Mitchell – Vocals, Chris Green – Guitars, Alex "Nickel" Bowen – Bass, Lee Farmery – Drums.
NEW RAWBURT VIDEO PREVIEW:
The new video by Gothenburg metallers Rawburt are now released, the title track of their latest release entitled "Saligia". The album are based around the concept of the seven deadly sins, as the title are the mnemonic acronym "Saligia" based on the first letters in Latin of the seven deadly sins: superbia, avaritia, luxuria, invidia, gula, ira, acedia. www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5rqowdgk-E.
Rawburt was formed in Gothenburg Sweden by guitarist Robert Hansson and singer Stefano Marchesini (both ex Human Race) back in 2008.
Today, Rawburt has a full worldwide digital release available of the band's current catalog, which means that Tropheus (2011), Musketeer (2012) and Saligia (2013) are available on Spotify etc. Hardcopies are available of each album directly from the band.
The band Rawburt are Stefano Marchesini (vocals), Robert Hansson (guitar), Sonny Andersson (bass) and Anders Östman (drums). www.rawburt.com.
KINGDRAGON ALBUM TEASER:
Melodic Hard Rockers Kingdragon release their album teaser along with the release of their debut album "Hide The Sun". youtu.be/vpuAz6E9XlY.
Kingdragon European Tour Dates will be announced soon in support of their new album "Hide The Sun" released on Friday 31st January from Retrospect Records. You can order "Hide The Sun" from retrospectrecords.com or www.kingdragon.gr (signed) or digital from all well known digital platforms.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS WITH AXEL RUDI PELL, ROYAL HUNT, GARY MESKILL (PRO-PAIN, DARKHAUS) AND COLDSPELL: Rich Davenport's Rock Show this week features exclusive interviews with guitar maestro Axel Rudi Pell, Royal Hunt mastermind Andre Andersen, Gary Meskill of Pro-Pain/Darkhaus and Coldspell guitarist Michael Larsson, and is available now for streaming at this link: www.mixcloud.com/richdav1/rich-davenports-rock-show-axel-rudi-pell-royal-hunt-pro-paindarkhaus-and-coldspell-interviews/
In the first hour of the show, Axel Rudi Pell talks about his chart-storming new album "Into The Storm", recruiting former Rainbow/ Black Sabbath/BOC drummer Bobby Rondinelli, and the band's plans to mark their 25th anniversary this year. Axel also selects two songs from "Into The Storm".
More melodic Metal follows from Royal Hunt, as keyboard maestro Andre Andersen gives the lowdown on their new album "A Life To Die For", which sees the band working with orchestral instruments and a choir, with two tracks from the new release.
In part 2, Coldspell guitarist Michael Larsson discusses the band's latest album "Frozen Paradise" and their well-received appearance at MelodicRockFest 3. Michael also chooses two tracks from the new album, and also picks a Thin Lizzy number for the show's weekly Phil Lynott tribute spot.
And finally, Pro-Pain mainman Gary Meskill takes us through two exciting new releases, the face melting old-school Hardcore of Pro-Pain's new album "The Final Revolution", and the debut release from his new project, international Synth-Rock outfit Darkhaus, whose original sound blends ripping guitars and memorable melodies with influences from early 80s electronica.
You can also listen on Sunday 2nd February 15:00-17:00 GMT and Wednesday 5th February 22:00-00.00 GMT on www.bloodstockradio.com.
Friday, January 31, 2014
THE ULTIMATE STAN BUSH ALBUM ARRIVES IN MARCH:
Legendary AOR singer/songwriter Stan Bush is ready to deliver The Ultimate – and MelodicRock Records is proud to announce a partnership to bring Stan's all-new studio album to fans worldwide.
MelodicRock Records has signed Stan Bush for the release of The Ultimate in Europe, with Stan's own LA Records handling the USA release.
Worldwide icon of melodic rock Stan Bush is best known for his song The Touch, made famous by Transformers: The Movie. An anthem for Transformers fans around the world, "The Touch" was released for Guitar Hero in 2009 and remixed by High Moon Studios in 2013 for their hit video game Transformers: Fall of Cybertron. It has also been featured on NBC's Chuck, FOX's American Dad, Deep Silver's Saints Row IV and in the motion picture Boogie Nights.
The Ultimate is Stan Bush's 12th studio album and delivers his most electrifying work yet! Reuniting with "Touch" collaborator Lenny Macaluso for the powerful title anthem, The Ultimate sees Bush return with the kind of uplifting motivational rock that has become his signature. The Macaluso track "Thunder in Your Heart" gets reinvented for The Ultimate album, which also contains the soaring anthems "Heat of the Battle" and "Unstoppable."
Stan Bush's new album The Ultimate offers trademark tracks like "Stand in the Fire" alongside the heartfelt introspection of "Love Again," "The Memory of You" and "Something to Believe" as Bush takes on love, loss and the search for meaning. With his latest release, the veteran rocker strikes the perfect balance between his high-octane, positively-charged style and mature, emotive songcraft.
In 2010, Stan Bush released the audio gem Dream The Dream, and one of the music videos, "Your Time," became a viral hit on YouTube. Bush's active involvement with social media channels like YouTube and Twitter keeps his ever-growing fanbase engaged, while he remains on top of his game musically. Stan's critically-acclaimed 2007 release In This Life was named "Album of the Year" by RockUnited.com! It features "Til All Are One," the official theme of the global gathering of Transformers fans, BotCon.
In 1997, Stan Bush won an Emmy Award for Best Original Song for his track "Til I Was Loved By You." Another Bush original, "Capture the Dream," was featured at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. His songs are heard in two Jean-Claude Van Damme films: Kickboxer and Bloodsport. Stan has co-written with top songwriters like Jonathan Cain (Journey,) Jim Vallance (Bryan Adams, Aerosmith,) and Paul Stanley of KISS. Stan has toured extensively throughout the United States and Europe in his storied career.
xx
MRR owner Andrew McNeice: "Stan is one of the true icons of melodic rock. He has always been one of my favourite vocalists, dating back to his debut album and working with him over the years always a pleasure. It is an honor that we form a closer partnership to release his brand new album, which I think has all the requirements to become another Stan Bush classic."
The Ultimate is set for release worldwide on March 17!
There will be a pre-sale announcement for the album in February on MelodicRock.com and StanBush.com and folks can always reserve a copy via their favourite online retailers in due course. Stan will headline the Friday night of MelodicRockFest 4 this October in Arlington Heights, IL.
Track listing: 01) Something To Believe 02) The Ultimate 03) Heat Of The Battle 04) Love Again 05) Stand In The Fire 06) Unstoppable 07) Thunder In Your Heart 08) The Journey 09) The Memory Of You 10) If I'm Not Lovin' You 11) The Touch (Power Mix).
For More Information, please visit: StanBush.com / MelodicRockRecords.com / MelodicRockFest.com.
Now to launch the new album, I'm very excited to debut the killer lead track Something To Believe:
PRIMAL FEAR "KING FOR A DAY" PREVIEW: Primal Fear "When Death Comes Knocking" is taken from the album "Delivering the Black" out now on Frontiers Records! Release dates: Europe, January 24 / North America, January 28. Buy the album on Amazon: www.smarturl.it/pfdelivering.
Primal Fear: Ralf Scheepers -- Vocals, Alex Beyrodt -- Guitars, Magnus Karlsson -- Guitar, Keyboards, Randy Black -- Drums, Mat Sinner -- Bass & Vocals.
PRESENTING THE FOLLOW UP TO TED POLEY GREATEST HITS VOL 1:
Press Release: "We are proud to announce the release today of Ted Poley Greatest Hits Volume 2!
This is a very limited pressing of only 2000 for the entire planet. This is an awesome follow up to Vol 1!
Volume 2 features re-masters of some of Ted's favorite songs that didn't make it onto Vol 1 plus 4 new tracks not available on any of ted's cd's until now which includes the single Breathe ("hit" video now playing on YouTube) as well as a rare track by Eric Carr of Kiss with Ted on lead vocals taken from a lost, then found demo cassette tape, vocals added later, this exclusiveversion is remastered!
This collection of 17 classic "tp" songs make this a must have for collectors of vol. 1, which is almost completely sold out.
This CD is not available anywhere else; including iTunes or other digital sites, no retailers will carry this CD. The only place you can get it other than at one of ted's solo live shows is on eBay, seller id tedpoley1 or just search Ted Poley Greatest Hits Vol 2 cd.
The only accepted method of payment is PayPal. No exceptions.
Since you will be buying this directly from ted, he will be happy to autograph it for you on request and he will be also donating a small portion of any profits from this cd to local animal shelters so thank you in advance for your order!!!!!
Order now and don't miss out-this will sell out faster than Vol 1! This is not a pre-order! These are in stock but we will start to ship them out on Tuesday as they will take time to autograph and package.
Please remember to add a note with your PayPal payment letting Ted know the name for the autograph on the CD. There is a place to "add a note to seller" when you go to pay. If no note is received with a name, it will be kept sealed." PurchaseLink: cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=131104906477
DON'T PANIC THIS VALENTINE'S DAY:
Arron and Vinnie from British rock band, Panic Island, are taking people's stories from all over the world and turning them into love songs they can give to their other halves this Valentine's Day. Not just a song, but they are shooting unique videos for each one.
WebLinks: www.yoursongproject.co.uk / www.panicisland.co.uk.
xx
PART 2 OF THE GLASS FIGHT AND OTHER HAZARDS OF DRINKING ON TOUR BY STEVIE ADAMEK: The Glass Fight And Other Hazards of Drinking on Tour by Stevie Adamek - In Part I (Sex) of this series, I wrote about my experience touring the country with the Seattle power rock band Bighorn, opening for bands like Boston, Van Halen, Journey and the J. Geils Band.
The three biggest characteristics of touring, in my experience, are that it's boring the majority of the time, you're spending your time (if you're in an all-male rock band) with a group of guys like you who are stuck psychologically at age 14, and – most importantly - there's usually free access to a variety of mind-altering substances. There are also some compelling business reasons why indulging in drugs and alcohol is encouraged in the touring business. I'll get into those reasons later in this post. It's a fun - but sometimes hazardous - thing to mix music, drugs and alcohol. When you're a touring musician, it's key to know what you are getting yourself into when you decide to indulge.
The full article at: solveigandstevie.com/sex-drugs-and-rock-and-roll-part-ii-drugs-and-alcohol-by-stevie-adamek
MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated with the following new features ready to check out:
- Foreigner - Tokyo 1989
- Badlands - Studio Demos (1987 - 4 Tracks)
- Europe - Los Angeles, California, USA - 1987 Join MRX now.
Thursday, January 30, 2014
MelodicRock Records is very pleased to confirm the release date for the anticipated new Ferreira album V, which will be released via MelodicRock Records/Cargo Distribution on March 17.
Pre-orders will be available shortly. Those pre-ordering will be the first to get the new release prior to the 17th.
Track listing: 01) Hit The Door 02) Heaven Is Her Name 03) No Friend Of Mine 04) Night To Remember 05) Midnight Romeo 06) Don't Let Go 07) Leaving Town 08) That's The Way It Is 09) Superstitions 10) Sometimes Love's Not Enough 11) In The End.
Time to hear another full track from the release - Heaven Is Her Name:
Ferreira is a band fronted by Marco Ferreira (Goodbye Thrill, Venturia) on the veins of Harem Scarem, Ratt, Motley Crue, Def Leppard, early Queen, Mr. Big, Dokken. Line-up: Marco Ferreira – guitars, vocal and keys, Alex Ferreira (Goodbye Thrill) - Drums and Backing vocals, Dario Seixas (touring and recording with Jack Russel's Great White, Firehouse, Crown of Thorns, Goodbye Thrill) on Bass and backing vocals.
The band's focus has always been on guitar riffs, big choruses, lots of harmonies and huge backing vocals....high energy songs all the way. Marco, Brazilian resident in US since 1996, has being putting music out as Ferreira since 2002 with the release of "Fallen Heroes" under the label Shire Records label. In 2009 the second album "Working Overtime" was released, followed in 2010 by the third release "Better Run!". Last was "Are You In?" in 2011.
Marco is also known by his other projects such as the singer of the French progressive metal Venturia with their debut "New Kingdom" in 2006 and 2009 with their second release "Hybrid" (with DVD live in Geneva) both under the label Lion Music; and of course singer/guitarist and main songwriter of the US band Goodbye Thrill with three albums: 2007 (S/T) and "Keepsakes" (double with live acoustic DVD) and "Outrageous" both released in 2010 under Kivel Records label.
V was produced, mixed and mastered by Marco Ferreira at Playrec studio in NY. Check out the track Night To Remember:
Marco:"This is the fifth Ferreira release. Very proud of the new songs and the new label behind it. My first review ever was published on a still baby melodicrock.com by Andrew. We kept in touch over the years though all my projects (Goodbye Thrill, Ferreira and Venturia) and that page turned out to be what it is today. Going stronger year after year. More than 10 years later here we are. We grew together in this crazy business, and we survived without never compromise. All fans of Ferreira and Goodbye Thrill won't be disappointed. I got my boys Dario Seixas (Jack Russell's Great White, Firehouse, Goodbye Thrill…) killing on the bass and Backing Vocals and my little brother Alex Ferreira (Goodbye Thrill) thundering on the Drums and Backing Vox and Myself on Vocals, guitars, Acoustic guitar and keys.
Thanks to Andrew of MMR, there was no rush on this album, instead an exchange of ideas and suggestions such as the opening intro (I was never a big fan of intros) but the one on the CD is exactly what was missing. I also had a pleasure to co-write one of the songs on with our record label mate Marc Farrano of Faith Circus. It came out GREAT!! Lots of work but great results, makes even more special. All production was done at my Playrec studio in Orangeburg, NY, from the writing to mastering. We took care of each second of every tune.
The album is now finalized and will soon be out. We can wait to share it with all our fans out there!"
AXEL RUDI PELL STORMS INTO THE CHARTS:
The new album Into The Storm of German guitar wizard Axel Rudi Pell entered the charts in several European countries: Germany: #5, Switzerland: #9, Austria: #40, Finland: #44.
In Germany and Switzerland it`s the highest chart entry ever in his 25 years solo career.
On February 07th Axel Rudi Pell will start the first leg of the "Into The Storm"-Tour:
07.02. D-Hannover - Capitol
08.02. NL-Weert - De Bosuil
09.02. GB-London - The Garage
11.02. D-Nürnberg - Löwensaal
12.02. CH-Pratteln - Z7
14.02. D-Memmingen - Kaminwerk
15.02. D-Erfurt - HsD
16.02. D-Hamburg - Markthalle
18.02. D-Langen - Neue Stadthalle
19.02. D-Ludwigsburg - Rockfabrik
20.02. D-Bochum - Zeche (sold out)
21.02. D-Bochum - Zeche (sold out)
INTRODUCING THE ODDFATHERS: "What does your music sound like? It sounds like The New Classic Rock"
For a new rock band, honesty and energy are two ingredients that are a must for any chance of success. Don't overthink what you're doing – go where the music and the passion takes you.
It's that attitude – and of course, the music, which caught the ears of one of the greatest producers in rock & roll, Jack Douglas (John Lennon, Aerosmith, Cheap Trick).
Such is the case with The Oddfathers. Forming barely a year ago, the self-proclaimed "oldest new band in rock" got together simply for their shared love of rock & roll. The four members of The Oddfathers are all veterans of the Minneapolis music scene, and all knew of each other – and occasionally worked with each other - but never actually all played together before. Vocalist and guitarist Brynn Arens made Flipp a household word in the Twin Cities (and literally a household band, with numerous and still-talked-about garage gigs) in the 90's. Drummer Tom Cook toured the world with The Magnolias and has been a go-to drummer for any number of bands and genres. Bassist and vocalist Krys Barrato was stage left for numerous Sunset Strip bands and artists in the 90's, before returning to his native Minnesota. And lead guitarist and vocalist Casey Gooby is not only renowned for his fretwork, but also his amp work – his business Gooby Amps repairs and restores classic guitar amps for guitar players around the world. "Basically, it started with an informal jam session; we barely said three words to each other before plugging in and in little more than an hour we had three songs done," recalls Arens. In two days more than ten songs were written and shortly thereafter four of those songs were recorded at Terrarium Studios in Minneapolis for their debut Double Live 45 release.
Collectively, the self-proclaimed "oldest new band in rock" share a love for the most influential artists of the 70's: Mott the Hoople, Rolling Stones, Alice Cooper, KISS, Cheap Trick, Sex Pistols, New York Dolls, to name a few. These bands also inspire the band visually, from the logo to their look – a "gangster" motif, complete with pinstripe suits. "All our favorite bands and albums were colorful and just looked cool," says Arens. "We all come from the same place, musically and visually; there was no concept or planning, really. I suggested the name and someone else said, 'yeah and we can wear suits!' and there you go."
Thanks to a great live show, an ep, Double Live 45 and a video for "Whisper In My Ear," The Oddfathers have quickly garnered a loyal fan base and the word is spreading beyond Minnesota. In the past year, the band recorded a version of "Let Me Go (Rock & Rol)l" for the upcoming KISS tribute album, A World With Heroes" along with a video. And of course, there are more live shows and touring upcoming. Recent live gigs have included opening slots for Steel Panther, Nazareth, Night Ranger, Black Oak Arkansas and Cowboy Mouth, showing that the band's energy and music appeals to a variety of audiences, developing a loyal and fast-growing fan base (a.k.a "The Family").
While all this was going on, Arens putting some demos on a cassette and glued it into a 70's tape player, sending it to various rock magazines and also Jack Douglas. "When a cassette player arrived during an Aerosmith session in L.A. loaded with music by "The Oddfathers", I couldn't resist the invitation to get involved in the fun," says Douglas, adding, "by the way, the guys in Aerosmith couldn't keep their paws off the cassette machine."
The band commenced recording with Douglas in 2013 at Terrarium Studios in Minneapolis. Befitting the producer, the band's music and their influences, the recording sessions featured no tricks or Auto Tune fakery: the band plays their own instruments, and all tracks were produced and recorded 100% analog to tape. The Oddfathers debut album will be released throughout this year in four separate eps, starting with PART 1 on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2014. From there, more shows and touring are on tap: "We'll play anywhere and with anyone. We love playing live and you can feel it at every show," exclaims drummer Tom Cook, adding, "That's really the bottom line."
WebLinks: www.theoddfathers.com / www.facebook.com/theoddfathers. Video preview: youtu.be/Us88sWkbj5Q.
AUDIO FIDELITY TO RELEASE ALICE COOPER ALBUM 'BILLION DOLLAR BABIES' ON HYBRID SACD:
Camarillo, CA - Alice Cooper fans worldwide rejoice! Marshall Blonstein's Audio Fidelity is releasing Alice Cooper's classic album 'Billion Dollar Babies' on Hybrid SACD on February 4, 2014! As a bonus, along with the meticulously reproduced artwork, enclosed in every CD is the very collectible replicated 'Billion Dollar Bill'
With 'Billion Dollar Babies', Alice Cooper refined the raw grit of their earlier work in favor of a slightly more polished sound resulting in a mega-hit album that reached the top of the US and UK album charts. It's impossible to overstate how popular the band had become by the time their sixth album was released. The album, is brilliant, decadent and encapsulated all the celebrity trashiness of the 70's only three years into the decade.
Song for song, 'Billion Dollar Babies' is probably the original Alice Cooper group's finest and strongest. The album's singles "Elected", "Hello Hooray", "Billion Dollar Babies",and "No More Mr. Nice Guy" all became hits on the Billboard Hot 100. Also included are a pair of perennial concert standards - the disturbing necrophilia ditty "I Love the Dead" and the chilling macabre of "Sick Things".
After the album was released, the band embarked on a tour which broke the US box office records previously held by the Rolling Stones. The show climaxed with a guillotine execution of Alice. The album and the tour made the band into the world's preeminent pied pipers of teenage trash culture and the most successful rock band ever to be loathed by American parents. "Other than the original 'Alice Cooper Band' being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame in 2011, our second biggest achievement was when our album 'Billion Dollar Babies' went to Number #1 in all three music trade magazines at the same time in April of 1973. Number #1 in Billboard, Number #1 in Record World and Number #1 in Cash Box. We had hoped it would sell Gold or Platinum as a follow up to the success of our album 'School's Out', but a Number #1 album was something that was totally unexpected. Over the years the title track "Billion Dollar Babies" has become my signature song because of the recognizable drum intro." - Neal Smith, Alice Cooper drummer and founding member
"I remember we were out on the road when the album finally came out in February 1973. I listened to it in my hotel room and just got this really big smile. I was thinking, 'It's amazing, we're really pulling this off'. The album was very, very unique and very, very different. I was really proud of the songs, especially 'No More Mr Nice Guy', 'Billion Dollar Babies' and 'Generation Landslide'." - Michael Bruce, Alice Cooper guitarist/keyboardist and founding member.
Tracks: 1. Hello Hooray 2. Raped and Freezin' 3. Elected 4. Billion Dollar Babies 5. Unfinished Sweet 6. No More Mr. Nice Guy 7. Generation Landslide 8. Sick Things 9. Mary-Ann 10. I Love the Dead.
Produced by Bob Ezrin. Mastered by Steve Hoffman at Stephen Marsh Mastering "...it remains one of rock's quintessential classic albums!" To purchase: www.audiofidelity.net/content/alice-cooper-billion-dollar-babies.
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
TIMO TOLKKI'S AVALON REVEALS THE ALBUM TITLE AND FULL CAST OF SECOND ALBUM:
The anticipated sophomore release from Timo Tolkki's Avalon will be entitled "Angels Of The Apocalypse" and is slated for a May release through Frontiers Records. The singers that will appear on the album are: Floor Jansen (new Nightwish singer), Simone Simons (of Epica), Fabio Lione (of Rhapsody Of Fire), David DeFeis (of Virgin Steele), Elize Ryd (of Amaranthe) and Caterina Nix (who will release her debut album produced by Tolkki, later this year).
Other musicians which will appear on the album include two other former members of Stratovarius: Tuomo Lassila (Stratovarius' founder) on drums and Antti Ikonen, the original keyboard player of Stratovarius. Timo Tolkki also announces a contest for guitar and keyboard players. Now you have the chance to play a solo with Timo Tolkki in one song of the album. Please send one MP3 that contains your solo playing to this email address: solos@tolkki.org.
The winner will receive a backing track and will play his/her solos to this. The MP3's for the contest has to be sent NOT LATER than 16th of February. You can also visit www.avalonopera.com for videoblogs that has been made from the recordings of the album.
MÖTLEY CRÜE ANNOUNCES THE FINAL TOUR:
After more than three decades together, iconic rock 'n roll band Mötley Crüe announced today their Final Tour and the band's ultimate retirement. The announcement was solidified when the band signed a formal Cessation Of Touring Agreement, effective at the end of 2015, in front of global media in Los Angeles today. The band will celebrate the announcement of the Final Tour with a performance at Jimmy Kimmel Live tonight and sit down exclusively with CBS This Morning tomorrow, Wednesday, January 29.
Mötley Crüe has proven they know how to make a lasting impression and this tour will be no different; Fans can expect to hear the catalogue of their chart- topping hits and look forward to mind-blowing, unparalleled live production. "When it comes to putting together a new show we always push the envelope and that's part of Mötley Crüe's legacy," explains Nikki Sixx. "As far as letting on to what we're doing, that would be like finding out what you're getting for Christmas before you open the presents. We think in an age of too much information, we'd like to keep some surprises close to our chest until we launch the Final Tour."
The Final Tour presented by Dodge and produced by Live Nation will kick off in North America on July 2nd in Grand Rapids, MI and reach 72 markets before hitting international territories in 2015.
Fans can look forward to Very Special Guest, Alice Cooper joining Mötley Crüe for an incredible package. Alice invented the genre and Mötley Crüe put steroids in it!
As documented in the Cessation Of Touring Agreement the band signed at the press conference today, the band will not tour after this Final Tour. Vince Neil, Nikki Sixx, Tommy Lee, and Mick Mars will go their separate ways after the lengthy 2-year touring cycle. Tommy Lee explains "Everything must come to an end!! We always had a vision of going out with a big fucking bang and not playing county fairs and clubs with 1 or 2 original band members! Our job here is done!!!" Of the band's tumultuous history, Mick Mars adds "(It has been) more drama than 'General Hospital' it keeps 'em watchin and they keep comin' back." Vince Neil says of the Finality of the tour - "I'll miss playing with the guys but I won't quit playing rock and roll!! I feel there are a lot of great opportunities and exciting projects after Motley."
The Final Tour will coincide with the film made from Mötley Crüe's NY Times Best-Selling book The Dirt. Jeff Tremaine (Bad Grandpa) has signed on to direct the opus that is set to debut in theaters globally in 2015, coinciding with The Final Tour.
Ticket Presales and VIP Ticket Package Presales begin Wednesday, January 29.
Mötley Crüe Fan Club members will get the exclusive very first crack at tickets and VIP Packages, via a unique code, beginning on Wednesday, January 29th from 10am local time on Wednesday, January 29th until 10 PM local time the same day via Ticketmaster.com, LiveNation.com, or via MotleyVIP.com (for those shows not being sold via Ticketmaster or LiveNation).
More and tour dates at: www.Motley.com / facebook.com/motleycrue.
xx
NEW BLACK STAR RIDERS TO BE PRODUCED BY JOE ELLIOTT:
2013 was a fantastic year for Black Star Riders. It saw the release of their fan and critically acclaimed debut album, All Hell Breaks Loose. The album charted well all over the world and the hot single 'Bound For Glory' appeared on the tops of many year-end best-of lists from outlets all over the world! The band toured throughout Europe and Scandinavia, bringing their raw edged sound to thousands of fans. The energy has been intoxicating! Now it is time for the guys to continue with this momentum and create a follow up album. Scott Gorham sums it up, "The fan response has been better then we could have hoped. I haven't had this much fun in years!"
When it comes to the team behind the soundboard, Black Star Riders decided to change things up this time around. Taking over the production reins will be Def Leppard front man Joe Elliott. Adding to the dream team will be long time Leppard sound guru Ronan McHugh. Ricky Warwick chimes in on the reason Joe was tapped for this album. "Joe Elliott's passion, enthusiasm for music, as a fan, artist and friend is unquestionable and Ronan McHugh is a phenomenal engineer. Personally having worked with these guys before, it was a no brainer when they said they would like to produce the new BSR album. We are confident that this will be a huge leap forward in the evolution of BSR." Joe Elliott adds, "Having worked with Scott on the Thin Lizzy remixes a few years ago & having produced Ricky's 1st 2 solo albums, I'm looking forward to taking our musical journey together even further. We're aiming to make a serious leap forward with the next album & I'm proud to be able to contribute to the next chapter in the BSR story."
Black Star Riders is set to enter the studio in Dublin, Ireland in October 2014 to start recording their follow up release. Damon Johnson adds "We are all excited about working with Joe, he is like part of the family. And recording this album in Ireland is a special treat for us."
The new, as yet untitled, album will be released in the spring of 2015 through Nuclear Blast.
EVERGREY SIGNS WITH AFM!: AFM Records proudly announces the signing of Swedish metallers Evergrey. The band, led by frontman Tom S. Englund, is one of the most unique, significant and influential to emerge in the last 2 decades. Currently Evergrey are working on a brand new studio album which will be released later this year. Fans can look forward to an eventful Evergrey year 2014.
"I am sitting here in what feels like the black heart of distorted guitars and heavy drums trying to sort what material to be chosen for the new Evergrey album that will be brought to you by our new record label AFM! While the music might be the most contemplated and dark pieces we have written - and while the sheer amount of music we have the pleasure to choose from is more than ever, we are super psyched and pleased to have chosen a label that believes in Evergrey! AFM are certain that we have a lot more to contribute to the world of music and we can promise you that they are right. On top of that it is about damn time that our fans get some new and fresh metal! While we at this moment are hindered to speak about the new members - this will be totally understandable when we announce it - they are known to some people and some might never have heard of them B U T we can tell you that they are as excited as the rest of us and have already brought in 50% of the material written so this album will be a 100% band effort!
We will release 2 singles 1 complemented with a video produced by our bud Patric Ullaeus and Revolver.se. We will also film our every step of the recording process for you to enjoy at a continuous and steady pace on our different social media channels making this the most accessible album we have made to date. We will also arrange interviews with each and every member during the recording process together with some really cool ideas for the booklet of the CD itself - more on this soon! The album will be recorded in a few different studios and mixed in Denmark at Hansen studios by Jacob Hansen (Volbeat, Amaranthe, Epysode, Pretty Maids, Doro and more).
We are currently planning some cool release shows for different territories and honestly can't wait for YOU to hear our music, as we are thrilled, more than pleased and stoked with what we come up with! And oh, yeah, the title is also set and will be revealed soon!
Watch out for A LOT more from us! Tom, Rikard, Johan, -------- and -------"
MELODIC BRIEFS:
Hamburg-based power metallers Iron Savior give a first teaser for their upcoming album Rise Of The Heroť. Check out the officialť clip for their brand new track Buning Heart. Rise Of The Heroť will be released on February 28th (Europe), March 18th (US).
Michael Sweet of Stryper has a newly launched redesigned solo website www.michaelsweet.com, featuring a preview a new song off his upcoming solo album as well as the first couple of pages of his autobiography.
On March, 28th the new Sonata Arctica album 'Pariah's Child' will be released. It is the band's eighth studio album and the follow up to their successful 'Stones Grow Her Name'. Sonata Arctica have released their 2nd studio trailer, featuring new member Pasi Kauppinen. Watch it here: youtu.be/W5Czn5qyG94.
On April 18 Edguy will release their tenth studio album Space Police - Defenders Of The Crown. Last weekend some journalists had the chance to listen to the album for the first time and the press reaction was amazing. There are several good reasons to believe that this album is going to be one of the strongest and heaviest Edguy albums of all time. Secretly Edguy have sneaked into the studio to record the follow up to their chart breaking 2011 album 'Age Of The Joker' (a.o. #3 in Germany). More details are going to be revealed soon.
With the success of their current record 'C'mon Take On Me' and a co-headlining tour alongside L.A. rock veterans Buckcherry in mind and performing at this year's Soundwave Festival, Swedish Street Metal maniacs Hardcore Superstar are about to release a live video on the track 'Last Call For Alcohol'. To give you a first impression about what the video will look like, Hardcore Superstar have just released a first teaser on the Nuclear Blast YouTube channel, which is available to watch here: youtu.be/pId1eTQmkYs.
Metal merchants Adrenalin Mob return February 18 with their second album Men Of Honor. The track listing is: 1 Mob Is Back 2 Come on Get Up 3 Dearly Departed 4 Behind These Eyes 5 Let It Go 6 Feel the Adrenaline 7 Men of Honor 8 Crystal Clear 9 House of Lies 10 Judgment Day 11 Fallin' to Pieces 12 Crystal Clear (Acoustic Version).
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
NEW ESCAPE SIGNING PACKS A PUNCH: Escape Music have signed on to release the debut album from Linda and the Punch - another newcomer from the European rock scene. The self-titled debut is due out in March.
Track Listing: What a Shame / Cold Cold World / Welcome To London / Wake up Dreaming of You / Nothing of Anything / Bite / Looking out for Number One / Kill the Lights / Lost for Words / Love Kills Me / Because the Night.
Linda & The Punch: Linda - vocals; Torsten Asemann - bass and vocals; Tim Edler - keys and vocals; Ralf Heyne - guitars and vocals; Oliver Ross - drums and percussion.
Linda is 21 years and hot to rock! After finishing successful her school exams ´Linda´ has devoted her life to music and now with her band ´The Punch´ she is ready to take over the world. The songs are produced by Michael Voss (Michael Schenker, Udo Lindenberg, etc) and Linda has collected some great international writers for her album such as Jeff Franzel (Taylor Dayne, NSync, Chuck Wicks), Steve McEwan (Robbie Willams, Foreigner, Eminem, James Blunt, Roger Daltrey), Herman Rarebell (Scorpions), Tommy Denander.
With special guest appearances of Mark Schulman (Pink) and Pascal Kravetz (Maffay, Bruce Springsteen) Linda and her band have done a great cover version of the anthem Because the Night once sung by Patti Smith.
Her style is fresh and wild and can be described as ´Pink meets Pat Benatar´. We have hard hitting choruses and powerful riffs backed with a solid rhythm section and great production. Songs like "What a shame" and "Bite" are stand out examples of what to expect from this talented young lady.
Linda and the Punch are like a breath of fresh air in today's complex rock world, and this brand new 11 track album is just what we all need to liven up the scene.
MORE H.E.A.T. TEASER CLIPS RELEASED + EP DETAILS:
Great news to report folks. I've had the great pleasure of hearing the new 10 track album from H.E.A.T. Tearing Down The Wallls and it's awesome! Every single track is a memorable and enjoyable slice of melodic rock bliss. The album follows a very similar musical path to Address The Nation, with a few fresh twists and a couple of very original ways to rock your world. It took a few listens to really develop in my mind, but now it won't let go.
The band has just announced the EP details for the single A Shot At Redemption - another instantly catchy and memorable anthem for the band. The digital EP is released February 12 and the album April 9.
EP tracklisting: 1. A Shot At Redemption, 2. Under Your Skin (exclusive track) 3. In And Out Of Trouble (acoustic), 4. She's Like The Wind (exclusive track).
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SABBATH REFLECT ON GRAMMY WIN: Black Sabbath added another Grammy® Award to their collection last night (Sunday, January 26) with a win in the "Best Metal Performance" category for "God Is Dead?" The song was the first release from the icon band's 2013 critically acclaimed 13 album (Vertigo/Republic), which entered the charts at #1 in 13 countries. The band's previous Grammy win was in 2000 for "Best Metal Performance" for "Iron Man" from their Reunion live album.
"We've had an unbelievable year. A #1 album in 13 countries, our first-ever #1 ever in America, a sold out world tour and now another Grammy award to top it off. We are shocked and thrilled," Black Sabbath said.
Next up, Black Sabbath will return to the road with performances in North America and Europe. The North American dates launch March 31 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY and will hit ten cities in Canada, including stops in Quebec, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary and Edmonton, before wrapping April 26 at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, CA. The overseas shows kick off May 29 in Abu Dhabi at Du Arena, the band will then perform two gigs in Russia before going on to Europe.. Black Sabbath kicked off their triumphant 2013-2014 world tour in April 2013 with shows in Australia, New Zealand and Japan. North American dates followed, along with performances in South America and Mexico for a headlining stadium tour (where they played to more than 300,000 fans).
Earlier this month, it was announced that Black Sabbath: The Complete Studio Albums 1970-1978 featuring the band's collected studio works for Warner Bros. Records from the 1970's would be available on the iTunes Store worldwide (www.iTunes.com/BlackSabbath). This includes the band's iconic eponymous debut (1970), the multi-platinum landmark Paranoid (1970), the platinum albums Master Of Reality (1971), Vol. 4 (1972), and Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (1973), and the gold-certified Sabotage (1975), Technical Ecstasy (1976), and Never Say Die! (1978). Also available is their classic 1976 compilation We Sold Our Soul For Rock 'N' Roll as well as 2006's Greatest Hits 1970-1978, which was released in connection with their induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
For more than three decades, rock fans have hoped for the return of Black Sabbath, but few could have predicted the forceful return-to-form of 13, which was produced by seven-time Grammy-Award winning producer Rick Rubin. 13 features the original Black Sabbath: Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler. With epic songs like "God Is Dead?," "End of the Beginning" and "Loner," 13 is a testament to the enduring relevance of Black Sabbath's long-running reign. The original Black Sabbath has sold over 70 million albums worldwide.
WebLinks: www.blacksabbath.com / www.facebook.com/BlackSabbath.
FOREIGNER ANNOUNCE ACOUSTIC DATE FOR UK TOUR:
Alongside their fast-selling string of UK dates with Europe and FM this April that already includes sold out shows in Newcastle and Bristol, Foreigner today add a special "An Evening With Foreigner: Unplugged" show at O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire, London on Saturday April 12. A Q&A session with the band, hosted by Team Rock's Kylie Olsson (presenter of The AOR Magazine Show), will also take place on the night with fans invited to submit questions.
An exclusive ticket pre-sale will be available to fans who have purchased tickets to the electric tour from 10am on Thursday 30th January, with tickets going on general sale at 10am on Friday 31st January, priced Ł35 (subject to per-ticket charge plus order processing fee) from www.livenation.co.uk or www.ticketmaster.co.uk.
The announcement of "An Evening With Foreigner: Unplugged" show, comes ahead of the release of the band's new album "I Want To Know What Love Is - The Ballads" on Monday 3rd February 2014. The album features 14 of Foreigner's best and most timeless ballads, previously never released on one album. "I Want To Know What Love Is – The Ballads" will be available in both CD, and 2CD Special Edition-digipak formats, with 200 exclusive signed copies available to purchase at the O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire show.
In addition to the one-off unplugged concert at the O2 Shepherd's Bush on Saturday 12th April, Foreigner headline a full electric UK tour with special guests Europe with support from FM.
Tickets for Foreigner's UK tour with Europe and FM are on sale now priced Ł38.50 regionally and Ł39.50 in London and are available from www.livenation.co.uk or www.ticketmaster.co.uk with official VIP packages available from www.VIPNation.co.uk (all tickets subject to per-ticket charge plus order processing fee).
Foreigner April 2014 UK Tour with special guest Europe and support from FM: (with the exception of a special one-off Foreigner "Unplugged" concert at O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire on Saturday April 12)
· Thursday 3 April - Manchester O2 Apollo
· Friday 4 April - Newcastle City Hall ***Sold Out***
· Saturday 5 April - Glasgow Clyde
· Monday 7 April - Nottingham Royal Centre
· Tuesday 8 April - Sheffield City Hall
· Wednesday 9 April - Portsmouth Guildhall
· Friday 11 April - Bristol Colston Hall ***Sold Out***
· Saturday 12 April - O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire "An Evening with Foreigner Unplugged"
· Sunday 13 April - London Hammersmith Apollo
· Tuesday 15 April - Wolverhampton Civic Hall
GLEN SOBEL AT DUESENBERG GUITARS' NAMM AFTER-PARTY:
January 27, 2014 - Drummer Glen Sobel (Orianthi, Sixx A:M, Impellitteri) along with Alice Cooper band mate Tommy Henriksen (Warlock, War & Peace) on guitar provided musical backup for Alice, Steven Tyler, and Marilyn Manson as they joined actor/musician Johnny Depp at Duesenberg Guitars' NAMM after-party on Saturday night.
The band, consisting of Sobel and Henriksen, along with half of Depp's early 80's band The Kids, Bruce Witkin on bass and Joe Malone (Little Caesar) on guitar, kicked things off with two songs before bringing out singer Marilyn Manson for a few. Manson went straight into his hits "Dope Show" and "Sweet Dreams", then ducked into a fantastic cover of "20th Century Boy". Manson finished out his set with "The Beautiful People."
Johnny Depp introduced Alice and the band played 5 songs beginning with a medley of The Doors' "5 to 1" and "Break On Through." The band went on to play I "Got A Line On You", "Brown Sugar" and the immortal Cooper classic "School's Out" with a twist of Pink Floyd's "Another Brick In The Wall" at the end.
Cooper left the stage only to switch places with Aerosmith's Steven Tyler. Tyler came on and pretended to have a sore throat, telling the crowd that he wasn't really able to sing. Then he tore into an intro to "I'm Down" surprising everyone. They continued with "House of the Rising Sun", and an incredible acoustic version of "Seasons of Wither" featuring Tyler seated with a 12-string acoustic. The band kicked things back into high gear with "Train Kept A-Rollin" before bringing Manson and Cooper back for the finale song, "Come Together."
In other news, Sobel has tracked drums for the upcoming Alice Cooper covers record which is due out later this year. A collection of classic tunes, it will feature a variety of yet-to-be disclosed special guests. Steven Tyler- Train Kept A-Rollin / Come Together: www.youtube.com/watch?v=01GOtTrQpx0.
VALERIE RELEASE LOVE IS LIKE A HEART ATTACK VIDEO: Valerie, Norway's finest new hard rock outfit, debut their 2014 revamped fan favorite Love Is Like a Heart Attack. Originally released on their self-titled debut album (2012) through Hellish Records - the band felt their current version (primarily an updated 2011-demo not intended for the final product) was not up to measure, and needed some work, flash, and glitter. The song is due to be released as a free download within a couple of days though: soundcloud.com/valerieband.
Valerie's debut album (8/10 Hard Rock Haven, 8.5/10 Rock Garage, 4.5/5 Rock Eyez) is currently available digitally though Amazon, iTunes, Spotify, CDBaby etc.
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/valerieband / www.valerie.no / www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wa2C_fzB0xI.
INTRODUCING BLACKWELDER:
International power prog metal band Blackwelder signs worldwide management deal with Germany's Rock'n'growl Management. Hailing from the four corners of the world, Blackwelder is a brand new metal experience featuring some of the top names in Power Prog Metal today. Arguably the best singer in all of metal, Ralf Scheepers (Primal Fear, ex-Gamma Ray) fronts this extraordinary outfit at the top of his game, alongside guitar virtuoso Andrew Szus (Seven Seraphim). Bjorn Englen (Dio Disciples, ex-Yngwie Malmsteen) and Aquiles Priester (Hangar, ex-Angra) round out this unstoppable team of what quite possibly could be one of the greatest lineups metal has ever seen.
Blackwelder are: Ralf Scheepers – Vocals (Primal Fear, ex-Gamma Ray); Andrew Szucs – Guitar (Seven Seraphim); Bjorn Englen – Bass (Dio Disciples, ex-Yngwie Malmsteen); Aquiles Priester – Drums (Hangar, ex-Angra).
Blackwelder began as the long-awaited follow up to Seven Seraphim's "Believe in Angels". Bit by bit, as the songs materialized, it became evident to mainman Andrew Szucs that this music should carry the banner of a new musical entity, emerging from a richer, darker source thus, Blackwelder was born.
Andrew began this musical journey alone, however, once he completed the framework for all of the songs, the band members began to fall into place like pieces of a puzzle. Bjorn Englen was the first to climb aboard, expertly adding his bass lines to the songs. Bjorn would later go on tour with Tony MacAlpine alongside drummer Aquiles Priester, after which, it seemed only natural to keep this rhythm section intact for Blackwelder.
Once Andrew's guitars were recorded, it became evident that a true powerhouse vocalist was needed to carry these songs to completion. Not just any voice would do. Blackwelder would need the stratospheric vocal stylings characterized by the rich tradition of European heavy metal, and who better to do that than the voice of Primal Fear: Ralf Scheepers. Like a dragon with its fire, Ralf's voice and lyrical themes are a natural fit to the songs of Blackwelder; blending and contrasting with the Marshall-based guitar tones in perfect harmony.
Topping off this powerful lineup is the unparalleled drumming of Aquiles Priester. Andrew and Aquiles agreed to finish the songs with Aquiles' unique pyrotechnic display of progressive metal drumming techniques and what a display it is.
Blackwelder is a winning formula of raw musical virtuosity that holds the listener's ears right from the start. This act is surely not one to be missed and cannot be denied!
WebLink: www.facebook.com/pages/Blackwelder/247645672060040.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS WITH SCORPIONS' KLAUS MEINE AND THE MURDER OF MY SWEET ON RICH DAVENPORT'S ROCK SHOW: Rich Davenport's Rock Show this week features exclusive interviews with Scorpions vocalist Klaus Meine and Angelica Rylin (The Murder Of My Sweet), and is available now for streaming at this link: www.mixcloud.com/richdav1/rich-davenports-rock-show-klaus-meine-scorpions-and-angelica-murder-of-my-sweet-interview/
The first hour of the show features a Scorpions special in which the band's vocalist Klaus Meine talks extensively about their new "MTV Unplugged In Athens" CD, DVD and Blu Ray. Klaus selects 8 tracks from the album, and gives an in-depth insight into how the band put the 24 song set list together for the show, covering material from every era of their career, along with 5 new compositions. Klaus also talks about the band's longevity, and their desire to play in the UK one last time before their farewell tour concludes.
In part 2, Angelica Rylin (The Murder Of My Sweet) talks about her debut solo release "Thrive", which sees her fulfilling her childhood dream of making a Melodic Rock album, inspired by some of her favourite vocalists, including Robin Beck, Ann Wilson of Heart, Leigh Matty (Romeo's Daughter). Angelica discusses the songwriting process for the album, which featured contributions from Melodic Rock luminaries such as Harry Hess, Daniel Flores, Robert Sall, Alessandro Del Vecchio and Anders Wigelius, and chooses 2 tracks.
Plus classic tracks and killer new cuts from AC/DC, Absolva, Y&T, Anthrax, Betzefer, The Ramones, Boston, Thin Lizzy, REO Speedwagon.
Monday, January 27, 2014
GOTTHARD BACK WITH A BAND IN APRIL:
New Gotthard album "Bang!" will be released on April 4.
The year starts with a Big Bang! Rock fans can rejoice, because Gotthard will release the new album with the title "Bang!" In addition to Musikvertrieb in Switzerland, for the first time, we have Pias (the rest of the world) and Marquee Inc (Japan) as new distribution partners on board.
Musically, we can be pleased to have 100% Gotthard, since Leo Leoni and Charlie Bauerfeind are the production team for earthy hard rock, pure Gotthard spirit and wonderful rock melodies melding together.
"BANG!" began like its predecessor "Firebirth" - (number 1 in the Swiss charts, number 9 in the German) – in the band's own Yellow House Studios in Lugano in autumn/winter 2013. It reproduces the earlier Gotthard times and transports them into 2014.
Mix engineer Ronald Prent is responsible for the topical and appropriate polish, as he mixed the new album. The Dutchman, who is at home in the famous Wisseloord Studios, has already presented his expertise in the albums "Lipservice" and "Domino Effect". "We got to know him as unbelievably competent and tasteful", said Leo Leoni. "You can see that he loves rock music and knows how to present the sound. He understood then straight away what we wanted and how we should sound. This time, he has shown us his expertise again." No wonder, after all Prent has worked in the studio with bands such as the Scorpions, 3 Doors Down, Def Leppard and Within Temptation.
For singer Nic Maeder, "Bang!" is not only his second album with Gotthard, but also the convincing proof that he belongs in the band, that he has become one of them and his voice and his qualities as a songwriter are indispensable.
The fans and collectors are not the only ones to be happy: Apart from a standard jewel case, the album will be presented in a classy digipack version, with 2 bonus tracks and also on vinyl.
New single – "Feel What I Feel" OUT 31.01.2014 (Digital Download).
MOTLEY CRUE SET TO ANNOUNCE THEIR FINAL TOUR:
JACKY VINCENT "STAR X SPEED STORY" ALBUM RELEASE ON SHRAPNEL RECORDS:
Considered among the top young shred guitarists in contemporary music, Jacky Vincent's new CD, "Star X Speed Story", showcases a guitarist with an exciting collection of great guitar instrumentals with enough taste and technique to satisfy the most discriminating guitar fan. In the tradition of other great Shrapnel instrumental CD's, this record is brimming with important performances by one of the world's greatest new technicians.
Born in Portsmouth, England in 1989, just before the high tech guitar craze and heavy metal gave way to grunge, Jacky Vincent was inspired by guitarists such as Paul Gilbert, Jason Becker, Vinnie Moore, Joe Satriani, and Steve Vai.
Jacky was just 20 years old when he heard that Epitaph recording artists "Falling In Reverse" were looking for a guitarist. Jacky quickly recorded a home demo, sent it to the band in the USA, recorded his guitar tracks on their debut record and hit the road to support the record.
In 2012 the band was added to the main stage on the Vans WARPED tour where they played all over the USA for a couple of months. They also opened for Guns N Roses at the Hollywood Palladium in March of 2012.
At 24, Jacky Vincent plays 80's influenced shred guitar better than most great guitarists of that era and combines it with electronic trance grooves.
Track Listing: I. Maybe I Am A Wolf Ii. Venom Love Iii. Star X Speed Iv. Without You V. Heaven Or Hell? Vi. Neo Concerto Vii. If You Were Mine Viii. Runaway Tryst Ix. The Tempest X. Fatal Envy Xi. Burning Tears Xii. Sidescroller Xiii. I Can Never Go Home (Reprise).
Friday, January 24, 2014
PRETTY MAIDS TO RELEASE LOUDER THAN EVER – OUT IN MARCH ON FRONTIERS: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of Pretty Maids Louder Than Ever – a collection of new songs and re-recorded tracks selected from past albums on March 21 in Europe and March 25 in North America.
After celebrating their 30th Anniversary as a band and the release of their latest monumental album "Motherland", the Danish melodic hard rockers are serving the fans with an album which includes eight re-recorded classic songs from the 1995 - 2006 era, plus four brand new songs specially written for this record and a special bonus DVD including archive footage from the 80's, brand new interviews and plenty of cool material for the fans!
"There were two main reasons for us to do this Album," explains singer Ronnie Atkins. "First of all we wanted to keep the ball in spin and release some kind of an 'in between' album before the next 'real' studio album. Then we were curious to hear how some of the older songs would sound like with the band line up we have today and in the hands of our current producer Jacob Hansen. The original idea was actually to do a mix of both re-recorded, re-mixed, covers and new songs, but in the end decided to cut it down to what it is. We deliberately chose not to re-record some of the eighties and early nineties material, since it's some kind of 'sacred' both to ourselves as well as the fans."
The release of "Louder Than Ever" will be followed up by a three to four weeks tour in Europe in May 2014. On top the band will appear on the bill of several festivals during the summer plus there will be the traditional Christmas Ride.
TURN UP THE VOLUME – DANISH DYNAMITE IS… LOUDER THAN EVER!
"Louder Than Ever" includes the following tracks: CD: Deranged (New Song); Playing God; Psycho Time Bomb Planet Earth; My Soul To Take (New Song); He Who Never Lived; Virtual Brutality; Tortured Spirit; With These Eyes; Nuclear Boomerang (New Song); Snakes In Eden; Wake Up To The Real World; A Heart Without A Home (New Song). DVD: A Retrospective of the "Motherland" 2013 World Tour. Includes Archive footage from early stages of the band's career, interviews, backstage, Studio Footage and the usual freakiness.
Enjoy a "Louder Than Ever" presentation following this Youtube link: youtu.be/404ydIeqUHY.
Pretty Maids:Ronnie Atkins: Vocals; Ken Hammer: Guitar; Rene Shades: Bass; Allan Tchicaja: Drums; Morten Sandager: Keyboards. Produced by Jacob Hansen.
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TOTO RAMPS UP FOR BUSY 2014 WITH PLANNED STUDIO ALBUM, UPCOMING DVD/CD RELEASE, TOUR RUN:
Los Angeles --- Toto has revealed plans for 2014 that deliver what fans have been waiting years for. The band will record a new studio album, their first since Falling In Between (2006). Keyboardist and founding member David Paich shares, "The repertoire is coming together so naturally it is as though we never took a break from creating as Toto in the studio. For the fans who have been waiting patiently and continually showing the band support and love over the last decade or so, this one's for you. Collectively we can't wait to share these recordings with The World."
Late-Spring or Early-Summer, Toto 35th Anniversary: Live In Poland will be issued via Eagle Rock with configurations that include CD, DVD, Blu-ray and a deluxe package which will be revealed imminently. Filmed on June 25, 2013 in Lodz, Poland, the offering captures the band in the midst of a standing-room-only European tour. The two-hour plus performance features the band's hit stocked repertoire alongside other favorites.
This April, Toto returns to Japan for a seven show headlining arena tour that takes them through Nagoya, Osaka, Tokyo, Sendai and Sopporo. The complete itinerary follows below. In August and September, the band will hit the road as co-headliners with Michael McDonald, for their most comprehensive North American tour in years.
This weekend, guitarist Steve "Luke" Lukather will perform with Ringo Starr on the Grammy Awards. The following day on Monday the 27th, he will participate in The Night That Changed America: A Grammy Salute to the Beatles (Airing on CBS-TV February 9). Luke offers, "This is full circle for me. I started playing the guitar the day I saw The Beatles on Ed Sullivan, and now 50 years later I have been so graciously asked to be a part of The Grammy Awards with Ringo alongside playing and being a part of the 50th Anniversary show. I am beyond honored. I am also so excited about the future of Toto. So many things we have been trying to do have now all come true. A real USA tour, a new album of some killer new material, a new live DVD, and a World Tour to follow over the next two years. These are exciting times for myself and the band."
It has also been announced that long-time member drummer Simon Phillips will be departing the band to pursue his solo career and other interests. Luke shares, "He is still a dear friend and we wish him the very best and continued success," The band welcomes new addition Keith Carlock (Steely Dan, Sting, James Taylor, John Mayer). Carlock originally hails from Clinton, Mississippi, and has collaborated with Luke in the past in the jam band Toxic Monkey.
Few ensembles in the history of recorded music have individually or collectively had a larger imprint on pop culture than the members of Toto. As individuals, the band members' imprint can be heard on an astonishing 5000 albums that together amass a sales history of a HALF A BILLION albums. Amongst these recordings, NARAS applauded the performances with more than 200 Grammy nominations. Band members have been South Park characters, and Jimmy Fallon and Justin Timberlake recently did a comedy sketch around the band's hit "Africa." As a band, Toto sold 35 million albums, and today continue to be a worldwide arena draw staging standing room only events around the globe. They are pop culture, and are one of the few 70's bands that have endured the changing trends and styles, and 35 years in to a career enjoy a multi-generational fan base.
In 2013, the band's European tour hit 29 cities staging successful concerts Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland. Toto World Tour 2013 featured Luke, David Paich, Steve Porcaro on keyboards, Simon Phillips on drums, Nathan East on bass guitar, background singers Amy Keys and Mabvuto Carpenter and singer Joseph Williams, who sang the hits "Pamela" and "Stop Loving You" on the worldwide platinum release The Seventh One (1988). Williams is also featured on the platinum certified Fahrenheit (1986), Toto XX (1998), the track "Bottom of Your Soul" on Falling In Between (2006), and the multi-platinum release Past to Present 1977-1990 issued in 1990.
With over 35 years together and thousands of credits and accolades to their names, Toto remains one of the top selling tour and recording acts in the world. Collectively and individually, the band has played on nearly every major hit record of the past quarter century, placing their distinctive stamp of excellence all over CD shelves around the world. Toto are the benchmark by which many artists base their sound and production, and they continue to transcend the standards set by the entire music community, being simply synonymous with musical credibility.
Toto also continues to raise awareness for ALS, for their brother and friend, Mike Porcaro, who has been diagnosed with ALS, Lou Gehrig's Disease. The band commits energies towards fundraising for Police and Fire Departments of California and the Fallen Heroes initiative (www.fallenheroes.org), and help the United Nations in their humanitarian endeavors through music.
Japanese Tour Dates:
4/23 Nagoya - Shi Kokaido
4/24 Osaka - Festival Hall
4/26 Tokyo - Dome City Hall
4/27 Tokyo - Dome City Hall
4/28 Tokyo - Budokan
4/30 Sendai - Electron Hall
5/02 Sapporo - Bunka Hall
Check back for more details: www.totoofficial.com.
STEPHEN CHESNEY UNEVILS FIRST SONG FROM NEW EP WITH ROBERT MASON:
First song co-written with Warrant vocalist Robert Mason sees the light of day.
Los Angeles - The first song from the new solo EP by Guitarist/Songwriter Stephen Chesney featuring Warrant vocalist Robert Mason has found its way online as a streaming preview ahead of a future release. English born Stephen Chesney has been working on the songs throughout 2013 leading into the beginning of 2014 after hooking up with Mason to finish up the songs, based on tunes that Chesney had written over the previous years prior to landing in California. The tune also features drummer Scot Coogan (Ace Frehley/Brides of Destruction) bassist Koko Powell (Edgar Winter Band) and Rob Bloise on keys along with a horns section featuring Jim Wheeler (Slash/Loggins Messina) and Mitch Manker (Ray Charles).
The song along with the rest of the EP has been worked on by Guns N' Roses/Santana Engineer Rob Beaton in Los Angeles, an early/mid 2014 release date is currently being finalized.
More information will be available soon at www.StephenChesney.com / www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCiR1IHTOxM.
BRIAN HOWE AIMS TO RAISE $100k FOR NEW STUDIO PROJECT:
Former Bad Company vocalist Brian Howe has launched a Kickstater campaign to fund a new studio album. This description was posted on the launch page: "This record will be a back to basics harder edged yet commercial rock record. Famous guest artists. Various studios will be utilized to bring you the best production possible. 12 Fresh recordings from a classic rock legend. Several special guest musicians will help make this record the best of Brian Howe's career."
The singer is aiming for $100,000 in pledges.
Join the campaign here: www.kickstarter.com/projects/445520005/a-new-12-song-cd-from-bad-company-former-singer-br.
MELODIC BRIEFS:
News just in that 38 Special bassist Larry Junstrom has retired and will be replaced by Barry Dunaway. I've heard that Larry had carpel tunnel surgery and he chose this time to bow out.
Chandler Mogel, International Recording Artist and lead singer of the band Outloud, is currently one of the Top 5 finalists in the Rock Of Ages Rock Times Square Contest. The winner gets to perform with the cast of the hit musical Rock of Ages at the Super Bowl pre-show party next Friday, January 31st. Please go to the link below and vote for Chandler (you only have to be signed in with Facebook) - it only takes a click! The voting ends at 4 pm Eastern time on Friday January 24th. woobox.com/vypws2.
Nes from Clifford Hoad's Kings Of The Sun: "I can announce we have won a lengthy & prestigious hair raising heart in your mouth competition to play at the Sweden Rock Festival!! This is such a privilege & a honour not only to present the new band & new album Rock Til Ya Die to a international crowd but to represent all the people who love the band & voted for us fanatically from every country . I want to personally thank all of those people who voted for us from the Bottom Of My Heart you guys & gals Rock My World & now we have to get out there & rock yours in Gratitude !!! Thanks for believing in us everyone & Australian Rock that's what we're made of & we won't let you down!"
Things come to those who wait. 35 years after the release of "Metal Rendez-vous" Krokus are now finally been honored by their record company. "Metal Rendez-vous" is considered the most successful hard rock album of Switzerland. It sold worldwide around three million times. "This album awakened the Swiss music scene from their slumber," says vocalist Marc Storace. The Band from Solothurn charted with three songs from that album in the UK charts, all at the same time, toured a little later the U.S., playing to hundreds of thousands of fans. "We have recorded the album for just 15 000 Swiss Francs [about $15,0000]," guitarist Fernando von Arb recalls, "We lived in a cellar hole, put everything on one card and had nothing to lose," says bassist Chris von Rohr. "We never would have expected that it would take off as it did. Great thanks to all the fans!"
INTRODUCING MIRACLE MASTER:
Danish/German hard rockers Miracle Master will release their debut album "Tattooed Woman", on March 7 via GoldenCore Records/ZYX Music. The new band featuring Oliver Weers (Oliver Weers Band) on vocals, was formed out of the ashes of Pump. The cover artwork for the CD was created by Matthias Bäuerele of SeasonZero (Downspirit, Symphorce, Zombie Inc.) can be seen below. Recordings were done at Studio 22, Germany and Medley Studios Copenhagen, Denmark. Produced, mixed and mastered by Miracle Master Axel Heckert (Brainstorm, Symphorce).
Tracklisting: 01. Come Alive 02. Fly Away 03. Stay with Me 04. Forgive Yourself 05. Miracle Master 06. Will to Survive 07. Why Religion 08. Tattooed Woman 09. Highway to Heaven 10. Tear down the Walls 11. We all touch Evil.
Miracle Master recently released a video teaser for the new album. The clip was created by Dominic Pencz of Pencz Art and Krone Camera Edit. The video can be viewed: youtu.be/uVOPNSQVwBI. Miracle Master are: Oliver Weers – Vocals (Oliver Weers Band), Aki Reissmann – Guitars (ex Pump, Downspirit), Selly Bernhardt – Guitars (ex Pump, Tales Of Sorrow), Andy Minich – Drums (ex Pump, Unfroynd), Michael Vetter – Bass (ex Pump, Chinchilla).
You can expext nothing more than KICK ASS HARD ROCK!
WebLinks: www.miracle-master.com / www.facebook.com/MiracleMasterBand.
U.S. digital sales are beginning 2014 just like they ended 2013: in negative territory. Through the third week of the year, track sales are down 11.9% and digital album sales are down 13.3%, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Both figures stand in stark contrast to the same period last year. Through the first three weeks of 2013, track sales were up 2.2% and digital album sales were up 18.1%.
These numbers strongly suggest American consumers are quickly changing how they experience digital music. There are signs of change outside of sales numbers. Beats Music apparently had a strong debut this week -- its overloaded system has resulted in spotty service -- and reached No. 2 on iTunes' list of free iPhone apps. Netflix's fourth quarter exceeded expectations. The streaming video service now has 31.7 million subscribers in the United States and another 9.7 million elsewhere. Pandora's popularity is an ongoing reminder that streaming is mainstream. The Internet radio service had 76.2 million monthly users at the end of December.
iTunes Radio launched in the second half of 2013. Last week, Rdio debuted unlimited, advertising-supported listening. The much-awaited Beats Music launched this week and apparently has an unexpectedly large number of people signing up for paid or free trial accounts. On Wednesday, Beats Music halted new registrations to fix bugs and has been the second-most-downloaded free iPhone across all categories, according to App Annie.
Digital revenues will be under pressure if download sales end the year down 12.6%, the decline of track-equivalent album (TEA) sales in the first three weeks of the year. A 12.6% decline of revenue would equal a loss in the ballpark of $240 million of trade value and $340 million in consumer spending. In this scenario, a major label group with a 25% market share could expect download revenue to decline about $60 million this year. But there's reason to believe digital sales will worsen as the year progresses. If downloads follow the trend established last year, download sales will finish the year in even worse shape. Over the last 12 months, track and digital album sales consistently weakened last year. Track sales were down just 1.3% in the first quarter of 2013 but were down 3.3%, 6% and 12.9% in the successive three quarters. Digital albums had an even greater tumble, going from a 10.4% increase in the first quarter of 2013 to a 7.1% deficit in the fourth quarter.
The pace of download sales' decline is probably faster than labels and publishers would like to see. After all, the download was a growth format for a decade and helped offset losses from declining CD sales. But the decline in download revenue can be offset -- and likely overcome -- by gains in streaming revenue. Between on-demand video services like YouTube and Vevo, Internet radio services such as Pandora and a host of on-demand subscription services, hundreds of millions of incremental digital revenue should be realized in the United States this year.
The cycle is clearly evident: the growth of streaming services negatively impacts digital purchases and puts additional pressure on the music business to generate new revenue by growing streaming services. Rinse and repeat.
MRX UPDATED: MRX has been updated once again and this week we are of course paying tribute to the great Fergie Frederiksen with two features - a live show from Sweden in 1999 and the rare David London solo album from 1981.
Also added is Fastway - Cleveland, Ohio (1984). MRX Membership Details.
SHOWCASE UPDATED:
The CD Showcase has been updated with this week's new Frontiers Records releases - Ring Of Fire, Primal Fear and Red Dragon Cartel. Check them out now.
Thursday, January 23, 2014
INTRODUCING ADRENALINE RUSH: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of Adrenaline Rush. Fronted by one of the most talented and hottest chicks in today's Hard Rock scene, Tĺve Wanning (formerly part of the Teen-Pop duo Peaches), Adrenaline Rush promises to fire up the Rock scene with their lethal dose of heavy guitars, infectious hooks and full blown RnR attitude.
With a debut album recorded under the direction of producer Erik Martensson (Eclipse, W.E.T), this impressive band needs to be on the "to buy" list for all fans of Danger Danger, Motley Crue, Warrant, Treat and Crazy Lixx.
Tĺve Wanning says "I am very excited to finally expose my rock soul with my band. I've always been a rocker at heart and if you're into 70's/80's style rock I am sure you will feel right at home with Adrenaline Rush. Enjoy!"
Frontiers will launch the band with the release of their first video/single "Change" in spring with an album to follow in the summer of 2014. The band will also have some selected live appearances in Sweden and in some festivals in mainland Europe. More info at www.adrenalinerush.se.
PRE-ORDER AIRLESS - BEST OF & RARITIES 1999-2014:
Spanish progressive melodic rockers Airless have signed to MelodicRock Records for the physical CD release of their upcoming anniversary release Best Of + Rarities 1999 - 2014 - a 2CD set put together to celebrate the band's 15th Anniversary. MRR will release and ship out pre-orders of Best Of + Rarities 1999 - 2014 2CD set next week. The CD is a limited to 500 units only and is already at the plant for manufacturing.
You can pre-order Best Of + Rarities 1999 - 2014 exclusively here today. And as of right now, this is the ONLY place you can order the set and be assured a copy. The price is US$15.00 + $5 Airmail shipping worldwide. Order via PayPal link below:
PAUL SHAFFER INTERVIEWS TOM SCHOLZ ON DAY IN ROCK:
Boston Founder Interview Airs January 24 Nationwide on the Envision Rock Network
(January 2014) – Who better to aid Paul Shaffer in his daily rock history lesson than Boston founder Tom Scholz? On January 24, 2014 Scholz will join Paul Shaffer on Envision Radio Networks Paul Shaffer's Day in Rock for an exclusive, rare interview where Scholz discusses Boston's first new album in 11 years, "Life, Love & Hope."
Scholz resurfaces to discuss Boston's new music and during Paul's interview, he reveals the identity of the real Amanda, while also discussing upcoming plans for a 2014 tour. "Ten years ago, I only had life and hope. I was a little short on hope. A few years along the road, love got added in. [It] definitely influenced some of the writing," said Scholz when asked about his inspiration for the album. When asked if they will be touring in support of the album, Scholz responded, "Absolutely, we are planning a big shindig for 2014!"
Paul Shaffer's Day in Rock is available on a barter basis and illustrates the history of rock according to Paul Shaffer. The daily 60-second vignette draws on Shaffer's vast musical knowledge and ability to comment on the history of rock from his unique perspective. Paul Shaffer's Day in Rock is a perfect benchmark feature that can be programmed throughout the day and offers unique sponsorship opportunities for radio stations that are looking to add informative programming to their line-up. Visit paulshaffersdayinrock.com.
THE DEAD DAISIES LAUNCH NEW SINGLE:
After the enormous success of their first single "Lock 'N' Load" feat. Slash which saw the band reach #1 status on Planet Rock Radio in the UK, their second single "Washington" which saw airplay on over 15 US rock radio stations and Triple M in Australia, The Dead Daisies are now set to release their third single "It's Gonna Take Time" on the 21st of January 2014.
About the song: "It's a personal view on the world we live in today. We're all running around on this planet consuming everything in our path. There are so many distractions, that the simple things in life, we don't seem to have time for anymore? Is it just me? Everyone seems to be in a rush nowadays. This song is about stopping for a minute and identifying what is really important in your life! Simple really, but hard to do in this day and age! I hope whoever hears this song, will leave all their other distractions at the door, turn up the volume and Rock Out!" - Jon Stevens
The Dead Daisies new single "It's Gonna Take Time" is an unrestrained and imposing track that showcases Stevens' faltering wail against relentless and crunching guitar riffs. With a thumping cadence that contributes to the rhythm as much as the melody, "It's Gonna Take Time" features a raw and unforgettable sound seemingly plucked directly from the Golden Era of 1970's classic rock. The Dead Daisies will be releasing their self-titled début album 'The Dead Daisies' on the 7th February 2014 and will be touring Australia supporting it throughout February.
VANISHING POINT LAUNCH ALBUM TRAILER:
Australian melodic metal masters Vanishing Point will release their new album "Distant Is The Sun" on February 21st. More than six years after the previous release, "The Fourth Season", the band strikes again with their unique blend of power, prog & AOR. Check out the album trailer to get a first impression: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1P-iwiDolHk.
SHRED GUITARIST MIKE CAMPESE WILL BE PERFORMING AT THE WINTER NAMM SHOW 2014: Mike Campese will be heading out to California to do a few performances at the NAMM show in Anaheim at the Convention Center again this year.
Here are a list of upcoming performances:
Thurs, Jan 23rd 2014 4pm - Booth 4550 NAMM 2014/ Anaheim Convention Center 800 West Katella Ave Anaheim, CA 92802
Fri, Jan 24th 2014 1pm and 5pm - Booth 4550 NAMM 2014/ Anaheim Convention Center 800 West Katella Ave Anaheim, CA 92802
Sat, Jan 25th, 2014 12pm, 2pm and 4pm - Booth 4550 NAMM 2014/ Anaheim Convention Center 800 West Katella Ave Anaheim, CA 92802
Sun, Jan 26th 2014 12pm and 2pm - Booth 4550 NAMM 2014/ Anaheim Convention Center 800 West Katella Ave Anaheim, CA 92802
Mike Campese's new CD Chameleon out now. Chameleon embodies the entire essence and culmination of mike's years of experience as a composer, guitarist, songwriter, and of course includes plenty of serious guitar shredding.
New Promo Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=QyT9XdyvA68 / www.mikecampese.com.
WILD FRONTIER PLAN DVD SHOOT: Wild Frontier plan to record a DVD on March 8. The band states: "We will record a complete show on video and also we will release the audio for digital distribution. The release is scheduled for January 2015. That´s when the band has it's 25th Anniversary. This year we plan a few shows and we're entering the Czech Republic for the first time. More dates for the second half of the year are under construction."
Tour dates for 2014:
Wild Frontier - DVD Recording Show March 8th, 8 pm Venue: Mehrzweckhalle, D-Wabern / Germany
March 22th, 8:30pm Venue: Bounty Music Club, CZ-Olomouce, Czech Republic support: Black Tiger
March 28th, 9pm Venue: Parkhaus Meiderich, D-Duisburg / Germany
June 12th, 8pm Venue: Hessentag 2014, D-Bensheim / Germany support: Wild Night
WWW.NEILDANIELSBOOKS.COM IS LAUNCHED:
Author Neil Daniels - who recently published his first book of 2014, a biography of Journey guitarist Neal Schon (Now available as eBook via Amazon) - has launched his new official website www.neildanielsbooks.com. It contains information on all of his books; music biographies, Createspace, collected works, fiction and eBooks as well as his upcoming projects, foreign editions, sleeve notes and journalism. There's a biography, links to interviews, links to other websites, a gallery, social media links, current news, press releases and a newsletter and much more. The site is regularly updated and includes information on his forthcoming titles on ZZ Top, Iron Maiden and Bon Jovi. Check it out.
NEW MELODIC RISING STAR L.R.S. TO DEBUT WITH DOWN TO THE CORE ON FRONTIERS IN MARCH
Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of L.R.S. debut album Down to the Core on March 21 in Europe and March 25 in North America. L.R.S. stands for the new Melodic Rock musical alliance between singer Tommy La Verdi (21 Guns), guitarist Josh Ramos (The Storm, Hardline) and drummer Michael Shotton (Von Groove, Airtime). Started initially as a way to bring back to the public the amazing vocal talent of Tommy LaVerdi, a singer which came to the attention of the fans on the fabulous 21 GUNS debut album "Salute" in 1992, the whole project morphed into a power band trio when two other well known musicians: guitar player Josh Ramos and drummer Michael Shotton were brought into the picture by the album producer Alessandro Del Vecchio (Hardline).
The writing sessions were fast and steady, with Del Vecchio managing all contributions from the band members – who lived in different places - and offering a number of his own writings and co-writings to the band, which was anyway able to develop a distinctive Melodic Rock sound in the tradition of Journey / The Storm, with hints of Canadian AOR - think mid 80's Triumph. Recording sessions happened for the most part in Somma Lombardo, Italy during the spring of 2013, with the musicians getting along extremely well and creating a spontaneous camaraderie which contributed a lot to the success of the sessions. "I respected a lot both Josh and Michael before starting the album and it was actually very sad to leave each other after we finished recording and filming the videos" said Tommy La Verdi, while Michael Shotton added "It was like we had been playing in a band for years!". "I had the opportunity to try different styles and moods and incorporate elements of my past musical experiences in The Storm and Hardline – I was very glad to be involved in this", concludes Josh Ramos.
The resulting album Down to the Core is now finally ready to be unleashed to the public. With soaring vocals from LaVerdi, a superb vocalist who comes back into the well deserved spotlight and some exquisite guitar playing from Ramos, this is an album not to be missed and an AOR highlight for early 2014! Enjoy the album presentation via YouTube below:
"Down to the Core" includes the following tracklisting: Our Love To Stay; Livin' 4 A Dream; I Can Take You There; Never Surrender; Almost Over You; Shadow Of A Man; Universal Cry; To Be Your Man; Down To The Core; I Will Find My Way; Waiting For Love; Not One Way To Give.
L.R.S. has already agreed to appear live at MelodicRockFest 4 in Chicago on October 4 with more dates in the works in the springtime to accompany the album release.
L.R.S.Tommy La Verdi - lead vocals / Josh Ramos - guitars / Michael Shotton – drums, backing vocals / With: Alessandro Del Vecchio keyboards, hammond organ, backing vocals; Nicola Mazzucconi bass, fretless bass; Anna Portalupi bass, fretless bass; Jamie Browne bass.
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
RED DRAGON CARTEL RELEASE VIDEO FOR "DECEIVED": Red Dragon Cartel have been making waves since the band announced the release of their upcoming debut last year. Now, the band made up of guitar legend Jake E. Lee, bassist Ronnie Mancuso, singer D.J. Smith and drummer Jonas Fairley are unveiling their debut video for the song Deceived. The song comes from their soon-to-be-released Frontiers Records album Red Dragon Cartel out on January 24 in Europe and January 28 in North America. The video for the song can be seen at tinyurl.com/DeceivedVideo and fans that pre-order the album digitally on iTunes at georiot.co/2DV9 receive the song as an instant download. The album is also available for pre-order on Amazon.com at: georiot.co/reddragoncartelcd.
Jake E. Lee is best known for his work in Badlands and as guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne on Bark at the Moon and The Ultimate Sin albums. Red Dragon Cartel also features various guest appearances from some of music's most notable faces including legendary Cheap Trick vocalist Robin Zander, original Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Di'Anno, Kill Devil Hill/Pantera bassist Rex Brown, Sass Jordan, Slash's Conspirators Todd Kearns and Brent Fitz and In This Moment front woman Maria Brink. The album was produced by Ronnie Mancuso and Jake E. Lee and was executive produced, mixed and mastered by Kevin Churko (In This Moment, Ozzy Osbourne, Five Finger Death Punch). Red Dragon Cartel will be hitting the road in the road in March to showcase Jake E Lee's return to the world. The tour kicks off March 5 in Tempe, AZ and runs all the way through April 6, where it wrap up in Seneca, NY. The tour will make stops in Oklahoma City, Houston, Raleigh and Philadelphia to name a few. The band will also be heading over to Europe where they are confirmed to perform at this year's Download Festival in Donnington, England and the famed Sweden Rock Festival. More dates are being added around the world as the band looks to bring the music of Red Dragon Cartel to every corner of the globe.
From the opening riff of "Deceived" to final sustained piano chord of "Exquisite Tenderness," it is clear Red Dragon Cartel has created an album that stands amongst some of the greatest hard rock albums of all time. Infectious songs such as "Shout It Out," "Wasted" and "Slave" showcase the band's ability to write memorable hooks and vocal melodies. Robin Zander of Cheap Trick lends his voice to the track "Feeder" and a lyric video for the song can be seen at http://tinyurl.com/FeederLyricVideo. Maria Brink of In This Moment lends her unique vocals to the track "Big Mouth." Paul Di'Anno and Sass Jordan also lend their talents to the band's debut. Jake E. Lee's trademark playing style instantly shines through and picks up right where he left off.
WebLinks: reddragoncartel.com / www.facebook.com/reddragoncartel / twitter.com/reddragoncartel.
Confirmed Tour Dates:
Mar. 5 Las Vegas, NV The Marquee
Mar. 13 Owaso, OK Lava Cable
Mar. 14 Oklahoma City, OK The Chameleon Room
Mar. 15 Houston, TX Concert Pub North
Mar. 20 Hazard, KY Summit City
Mar. 21 Janesville, WI The Back Bar
Mar. 22 Fridley, MN Leighton's Pickle Park
Mar. 23 Richmond, IN The Firehouse
Mar. 25 McKees Rocks, PA Dead Hourse
Mar. 28 Largo, FL Largo Cultural Center
Mar. 29 – Apr. 1 Miami, FL Monsters Of Rock Cruise
Apr. 2 Teaneck, NJ Mexicali Live
Apr. 3 Philadelphia, PA The Legendary Dobbs
Apr. 4 Amityville, NY Revolutions
Apr. 6 West Seneca, NY Rock & Roll Heaven
May 30 Vienna, AUS Szene
May 31 Munich, GER Backstage
Jun 5 Norje Solvesborg, SWE Sweden Rock Festival
Jun 15 Donnington, ENG Download Festival
Jun 19 Seattle, WA El Corazon
Jun 21 Idaho Falls, ID Rock The Falls
THE WINERY DOGS RELEASE A SPECIAL EDITION AND A DELUXE EDITION OF DEBUT ALBUM:
January 21, 2014 -- The Winery Dogs--Mike Portnoy (drums), Billy Sheehan (bass) and Richie Kotzen (lead vocals, guitars) is getting 2014 started with a new round of tour dates and the release of two new special versions of their self-titled and self-produced debut album that debuted in the Top 10 on various Billboard charts.
Set for release in April, The Winery Dogs Special Edition will be comprised of two-CDs. Disc 1 is the standard album and Disc 2 is entitled Unleashed In Japan 2013, comprised of 10 songs recorded live in Japan during their July '13 tour including "Criminal," a track previously unavailable in the U.S., along with a 16-page booklet of live photos and lyrics. A deluxe package for die-hard fans will be released simultaneously. Dog Treats: The Winery Dogs Deluxe Special Edition will be sold in a box resembling a box of dog treats, and will include the Special Edition collection of music, a DVD featuring four music videos and interview footage, demos from the original recording sessions, a "studio diary" written by Mike Portnoy, as well as some unique merchandise unavailable elsewhere.
After The Winery Dogs was originally released on July 23, 2013 on Loud & Proud Records, it debuted on Billboard's "Top Alternative Albums" chart at #3, "Top Independent Albums" chart at #4, "Top Rock Albums" chart at #5, "Top Internet Albums" at #8 and "Top 200 Albums" chart at #27.
It also landed on numerous "Top 10 Albums of 2013" lists, including the prestigious "2013 Pazz & Jop" critic's poll in New York City's Village Voice, EddieTrunk.com (#1), MetalExiles.com (#1), Examiner.com (#1), ZoiksOnline.com (#1), Hardrockhaven.net (#3), AmpsAndGreenScreens.com (#3), GuitarWorld.com (#6), BraveWords.com (#6), VintageRock.com (#8), ClassicRockRevisited.com (#17). The album's first single, "Elevate," was the #1 Most Played song of 2013 on WDHA-FM in New Jersey and it reached the Top 20 on Mediabase's "Mainstream Rock Tracks" chart.
The four videos that have been released ("Time Machine," the latest single currently being serviced to radio, "Elevate," "I'm No Angel" and "Desire") have garnered over 1.5 million views on their official YouTube page.
Check out The Winery Dogs at any of the following U.S. tour stops (with more dates to be added in the coming weeks):
3/25 New York, NY B.B. King Blues Club and Grill
3/26 New York, NY B.B. King Blues Club and Grill
3/27 Chicago, IL Arcata Theatre
WebLinks: www.TheWineryDogs.com / www.facebook.com/TheWineryDogs.
TONY CLARKIN TALKS ABOUT HIS SHADOW GARDEN:
Not only musicians and freelance artists know this phenomenon: it's impossible to deliver top creative performances at the push of a button. You need peace, leisure, and – most of all – a certain amount of serenity to create truly great works of art. "We used to be under permanent pressure from our record companies," says Magnum mastermind Tony Clarkin. "They kept calling us, demanding hit singles and radio numbers. But that sort of thing doesn't work on demand. Now we're with SPV, where it's a totally different situation. They give us the necessary time and trust us to do the right thing. That's probably the reason why I enjoy working with Magnum again."
Clarkin's regained joy in his band is omnipresent on the latest Magnum offering, Escape From The Shadow Garden. Just like his simple yet logical work ethos: "I simply told myself: you're a passable guitarist, so you should play the guitar. As the band's guitarist and producer, I have all the freedom I need to create exactly what I feel like creating." The result of his latest burst of creativity consists of eleven wonderfully melodic rock songs which blend all the typical Magnum ingredients, sounding in a fascinating way both timeless and classic. "This band has certain unmistakable trademarks," Clarkin explains. "Among them are my feel for melodies and Bob's unique vocal style."
Only a month after the release of its predecessor, On The 13th Day, Clarkin started with the preparations for Escape From The Shadow Garden – as always an exciting phase in his life. "Before you haven't recorded and mixed every single note, you never really know whether you'll be happy with the result. When I heard the final version of the eleven new songs with their different stories and diverse arrangements, I knew it had turned into an impressive and complete album. Together with the great cover artwork designed by Rodney Matthews (Asia, Nazareth, Eloy), this is a release which forges an arch to the early days of Magnum's career. And that's wonderful! I was really happy when my friend Jimmy Lea of Slade came to visit me at the studio again and said: 'You've done it again?' It doesn't matter whether by sheer luck or hard work – life could have gone a totally differently way."
Escape From The Shadow Garden will be release on Steamhammer / SPV on March 19th in Scandinavia, March 21st in Germany, March 24th in Europe and March 25th in the US/Canada.
Escape From The Shadow Garden' will be available as a limited digipak edition with bonus DVD, as a double gatefold coloured vinyl LP set incl. bonus track, standard jewel case CD and download.
Tracklisting: Digipak Version 1. Live 'Til You Die 2. Unwritten Sacrifice 3. Falling For The Big Plan 4. Crying In The Rain 5. Too Many Clowns 6. Midnight Angel 7. The Art Of Compromise 8. Don't Fall Asleep 9. Wisdom's Had Its Day 10. Burning River 11. The Valley Of Tears.
DVD: Bonus Features - Recorded Over Six Nights In Europe Live Footage (Black Skies - Freedom Day - All My Bridges - On A Storyteller's Night), Extras (On tour Footage), (Too Many Clowns - Dance Of The Black Tattoo)
WebLinks: www.magnumonline.co.uk / www.spv.de.
DEF LEPPARD'S SLANG DELUXE EDITION IS DUE OUT FEBRUARY 10: Def Leppard will reissue of their 1996 album will be out on their own Bludgeon Riffola label February 10.
The set will contain demos, alternate versions and new mixes as well as the original tracks, across CD, Digital and Vinyl formats. More details are to be released shortly.
Tracklist: CD/Digital Edition:
Disc 1: 1. Truth? 2. Turn to Dust 3. Slang 4. All I Want Is Everything 5. Work It Out 6. Breathe a Sigh 7. Deliver Me 8. Gift of Flesh 9. Blood Runs Cold 10. Where Does Love Go When It Dies 11. Pearl of Euphoria 12. Move with Me Slowly 13. Truth? (Original Version) 14. Burn Out 15. Worlds Collide 16. Can't Keep Away from the Flame.
Disc 2: 1. Turn to Dust (1st Draft) 2. Raise Your Love 3. All I Want Is Everything (1st Draft) 4. Work It Out (1st Draft) 5. Breathe a Sigh (Rough Mix) 6. Deliver Me (Rough Mix) 7. Black Train 8. Blood Runs Cold (Rough Mix) 9. Where Does Love Go When It Dies (1st Draft) 10. Pearl of Euphoria (Rough Mix) 11. All on Your Touch (2012 Revisit) 12. Anger Me (Deliver Me -1st Draft) 13. Move on Up (Viv Demo)
14. Gift of Flesh (Phil Vocal).
Double 180g Vinyl: Side 1 1. Truth? 2. Turn to Dust 3. Slang 4. All I Want Is Everything 5. Work It Out; Side 2 6. Breathe a Sigh 7. Deliver Me 8. Gift of Flesh 9. Blood Runs Cold 10. Where Does Love Go When It Dies; Side 3 11. Pearl of Euphoria 12. Move with Me Slowly 13. Truth? (original version); Side 4 14. Burn Out 15. Worlds Collide 16. Can't Keep Away from the Flame 17. All on Your Touch (2012 Revisit) 18. Black Train.
DOUBLE NEW JEFF KOLLMAN TUNES:
January 21, 2014 - Acclaimed L.A.-based guitarist Jeff Kollman (Bombastic Meatbats, Cosmosquad, Asia Feat. John Payne, Glenn Hughes) has announced the release of 2 digital-only singles, "Eve of Reflection" and "Old Kentucky Thunder", which will be available January 27 via iTunes and other outlets.
States Jeff: ""Eve of Reflection" was written and recorded on Christmas Eve. "The song is more special to me than many I've written. It feels infinite. A friend said it was one of the few songs they could just keep playing on a repeat loop. 2013 was the first year without my brother. When the holidays come around, we associate it with family and past memories of our togetherness. I'm sure I was in a bit of a melancholy state reflecting on so much to be thankful for. It's always a challenge to emote without a vocal and a lyric, but if we harness that emotion and let it spill out onto the instrument then it can happen. And it did on this track. I used a new minor 9 open tuning on the acoustic guitar that I discovered while writing "Brother to Brother"".
""Old Kentucky Thunder" was an improvisation on a repetitive bluesy sort of motif on an old 60's Gretch acoustic guitar. "After I got done playing the take, I realized that there were glitches with the converters in Pro-Tools. I re-cut the song with more technique and somehow lost the feel completely. Songs can be quite vunerable that way depending on your mood and capturing THE MOMENT. I then went back and added the rain and thunder which inhanced the mood and covered up the digital blunders. Perfect. First take is always the best!"
In other news, footage of Kollman's Guitar Center Drum-Off appearance at L.A.'s Club Nokia on January 18 with drummer Ray Luzier (Korn), bassist Billy Sheehan (The Winery Dogs, Mr. Big), and DJ Sluggo has been posted at this location: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBdz1KvkxT8 ; the guitarist also played a set with his all-star band, the Bombastic Meatbats, featuring Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Chickenfoot), Kevin Chown (Tarja, Artension) and Ed Roth (Montrose, Glenn Hughes), who were joined by special guest Steve Lukather for the occasion. The Meatbats will celebrate NAMM week with a gig at the Baked Potato in Studio City, CA this Thursday, January 23.
Kollman recently unveiled his second signature guitar pedal, The Bombastortion, developed in conjunction with noted tone guru Tim Jauernig, designer of the Gristle King and the Luxury Drive, among others. A demonstration video is posted on Kollman's YouTube channel at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=B48gdZfmHW0 ; the pedal can be ordered directly via www.jeffkollman.com/merch.htm.
For more info visit: www.jeffkollman.com / www.facebook.com/JeffKollman.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
THE LATEST FROM ROCK CANDY:
The following six new Rock Candy titles are all available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price including postage to anywhere in the world for the next two weeks ending on February 3.
Dokken 'Breaking The Chains' CANDY192 / During the 80s Dokken were riding a wave of success that had them bracketed in the same league as heavy hitters like Mötley Crüe, Quiet Riot, the Scorpions and Ratt. Constantly on tour and favourites of MTV, the band's stock was at an all-time high but it wasn't always like that when an early incarnation of the band first formed in Los Angeles during the very late 70s. Named after Norwegian-American born Don Dokken, the band got its first major break playing a series of club dates in Germany in 1981 where they were spotted by feted Scorpions producer Dieter Dierks, who enlisted Don to guide vocal for ailing Scorpions singer Klaus Miene on their 'Blackout' album. Taking advantage of Dierks offer to record some demos the band scored a European deal with the fast rising Carrere label. Their debut album – recorded by Don Dokken, guitarist George Lynch, drummer Mick Brown and Accept's bassist Peter Baltes - was recorded at Dierks Studio in Cologne, utilising up and coming German born producer Michael Wagener. Issued in 1981, 'Breaking The Chains' sold reasonably well in Europe, paving the way for Elektra Records to sign the band and release this superior, revised and remixed version in North America two years later. Attracting instant acclaim the album features several Dokken classics, including 'I Can't See You', 'In The Middle', 'Seven Thunders' and the full throttle title track itself.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interview with Don Dokken.
Track Listing: 1. Breaking The Chains 2. In The Middle 3. Felony 4. I Can't See You 5. Live To Rock (Rock To Live) 6. Nightrider 7. Seven Thunders 8. Young Girls 9. Stick To Your Guns 10. Paris Is Burning (Live).
Dokken 'Tooth And Nail' CANDY193 / It's said that some of the greatest music is created through acrimony and conflict. Certainly it has been true of a number of superstar acts, including the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and the Who, all units that have experienced their fair share of inter band enmity. The same can be said of Dokken, the Los Angeles based band featuring frontman Don Dokken and exceptional guitarist George Lynch; two men who, no matter how hard they tried, just couldn't see eye to eye yet managed to craft some of the most crucial hard rock of the 1980s.
The recording of this, their second, album was beset with problems. At the forefront of their discontentment being a failure to agree on a producer. The first incumbent, studio veteran Tom Werman (Cheap Trick, Ted Nugent) quickly downed tools to be replaced by British studio legend Roy Thomas Baker (Queen, Journey) but only working a day shift, with just three members of the band, before handing over the keys to Michael Wagener to record with Don Dokken at night. It was a bizarre arrangement for sure, but one that, ultimately, produced exciting, if stressful to, results.
Originally issued in 1984, 'Tooth And Nail' leapt out of the starting blocks with all guns blazing, confounding the critics and captivating their audience with an array of classy hard rock, big on hooks and full of energy. Songs such as 'Into The Fire', 'Heartless Heart' and the power ballad 'Alone Again' helped to place Dokken firmly in the big league, providing them with a platinum album.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 2 bonus tracks, 16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interview with Don Dokken.
Track Listing: 1. Without Warning 2. Tooth And Nail 3. Just Got Lucky 4. Heartless Heart 5. Don't Close Your Eyes 6. When Heaven Comes Down 7. Into The Fire 8. Bullets To Spare 9. Alone Again 10. Turn On The Action Bonus Tracks 11. Just Got Lucky (Single Edit) 12. Alone Again (Live In Japan).
Dokken 'Under Lock And Key' CANDY294 / No matter how hard they tried, the feuding principals of Dokken, that's vocalist Don Dokken and guitarist extraordinaire George Lynch, failed to impede the band's commercial progress. Like fire and ice the two were in constant opposition, looking to settle old scores and start a whole heap of new ones at the drop of a hat. Some say that it was this uncomfortable friction that fuelled their creative engine, helping to make Dokken one of the most respected and commercially successful acts of the era. 'Under Lock And Key' was, natch, recorded under strained circumstances. For their last album a bizarre system of separate daytime/night time recording sessions helped to ease the bickering, but this time around the two protagonists insisted on using two different studios to record their contributions. It was an arrangement that dismayed outsiders, yet it made for a fascinating science experiment, one that produced some exceptional music. Produced by both British studio wizard Neil Kernon (Queensryche, Kansas, Autograph) and Michael Wagener (Mötley Crüe, Extreme) the album, originally released in 1985, is generally regarded as one of their best creations, giving rise to a number of classic tracks, including 'The Hunter', 'Unchain The Night', 'It's Not Love' and the chart hit 'In My Dreams'. It was a record that promoted them to an A-grade platinum attraction and one that resulted in the sort of kerb appeal shared by the likes of the Scorpions, Ratt and White Lion.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interview with Don Dokken.
Track Listing: 1. Unchain The Night 2. The Hunter 3. In My Dreams 4. Slippin' Away 5. Lightnin' Strikes Again 6. It's Not Love 7. Jaded Heart 8. Don't Lie To Me 9. Will The Sun Rise 10. Til The Livin' End.
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Tommy Shaw 'Ambition' CANDY195 / The name Tommy Shaw will always be synonymous with Styx, the hugely successful American pomp rock band that notched up a series of multiplatinum albums during the 70s and early 80s. After leaving Styx in 1983 he went on to carve out a solo career, resulting in a trio of well received albums before forming supergroup Damn Yankees alongside Ted Nugent and former Night Ranger songwriter Jack Blades. 'Ambition' was Tommy's third solo album and is generally regarded as the best of the batch. Teaming up with British producer Terry Thomas, the former leader and creative heart of cult AOR band Charlie, and recorded in London, musical assistance was provided by a number of top notch session players. Originally released in 1987, it received immediate and deserved acclaim as one of the most impressive sounding records of the time. Featuring some incredible vocal performances, recorded with pinpoint accuracy and loaded with ten truly great tracks (mostly co-written with Thomas), the record is a startling example of heavy but melodic rock with lashings of power and passion. Songs such as 'Dangerous Game', 'Are You Ready For Me' and 'The Outsider' say so much more about Shaw than we ever learnt when he was a member of Styx. Lead off track, 'No Such Thing' is one of the greatest, yet largely underexposed, tracks he's ever recorded. Look out too for a stunning version of Survivor's 'Ever Since The World Began', another feather in his cap.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 12 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interview with Tommy Shaw.
Track Listing: 1. No Such Thing 2. Dangerous Game 3. The Weight Of The World 4. Ambition 5. Ever Since The World Began 6. Are You Ready For Me 7. Somewhere In The Night 8. Love You Too Much 9. The Outsider 10. Lay Them Down.
Kerry Livgren 'Seeds Of Change' CANDY226 / Of all the greats to emerge from the vibrant American scene in the 70's, few could match the grandiose vision of Kansas. Rising up from relatively inauspicious beginnings in Topeka, in less than a decade they were crafting multi-platinum albums and selling out arena tours right across the States. One of its founding members, and primary songwriter, guitarist Kerry Livgren was the chief architect behind that inexorable rise to success and songs such as 'Carry On Wayward Son' and 'Dust In The Wind' became indelibly etched on the musical psyche of a generation. As the decade drew to a close, however, inevitable changes were beginning to sweep through the Kansas camp. Pieced together during snatched moments of downtime away from the 'Audio Visions' recording sessions, Livgren's first solo album 'Seeds Of Change' is a long forgotten jewel. Featuring guest appearances from most of his Kansas colleagues, as well as cameo's from the likes of Ronnie James Dio, Jethro Tull drummer Barrie Barlow and Ambrosia frontman David Pack; it not only showcased the guitarist's versatility as a songwriter, but also allowed him to push the envelope like never before. Songs blessed with striking arrangements and a surfeit of stirring hooks, 'Mask Of The Great Deceiver', 'To Live For The King' and their ilk still rank amongst Livgren's greatest contributions to the pantheon of progressive rock music!
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 12 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interview with Kerry Livgren.
Track Listing: 1. Just One Way 2. Mask Of The Great Deceiver 3. How Can You Live 4. Whiskey Seed 5. To Live For The King 6. Down To The Core 7. Ground Zero.
Speedway Boulevard 'S/T' CANDY206 / Whichever way you shake a stick at it, the lone album from studio creation Speedway Blvd is arguably one of the greatest hard rock albums that has ever been released. In a fair world this record would have gone on to sell several million copies propelling the band to international fame and fortune. As it happened, despite being signed to a major label, the record came and went in the blink of an eye with barely any acknowledgement of its existence. There's an interesting story here too. The project was initially envisioned as a studio creation by the legendary bubblegum production duo of Kasenetz and Katz. By the mid-seventies they had turned their attention to hard rock, creating in-house studio band Ram Jam and securing a massive international hit single with the track 'Black Betty'. With strong ties at Epic records the production duo gathered another cabal of New York musicians together to form Speedway Blvd. The focus was on lean and mean hard rock, with strong melodies and the killer voice of vocalist Roy Herring Jr. The unit also included future Balance bassist Dennis Feldman and Dream Theater keyboard player Jordan Rudess. Originally issued in 1980, because the album bombed it received little exposure and even less publicity. The band never played live and, in effect, never really consummated their studio gestation beyond these ten songs. Songs (all written by the band) which include the bombastic stadium rock of '(Call My Name) Rock Magic', 'Out Of The Fire' and the zeppelin influenced title track; all killer and no filler.
Special Deluxe Collector's Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology, 12 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork and rare photos.
Track Listing: 1. Speedway Boulevard 2. Chinatown 3. (I Think I Better) Hold On 4. Dog In The Distance 5. Out Of The Fire 6. Telephoto Lens 7. Prisoner Of Time 8. Money, Money 9. (Call My Name) Rock Magic 10. A Boulevard Nite.
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ROYAL HUNT IN OZ UPDATE: Rockstar Productions is delighted to inform the industry that the support acts for the upcoming first ever tour for Royal Hunt in Australia have been finalised.
Royal Hunt will only be performing two exclusive shows; one in Melbourne and one in Sydney. They will be supported on both shows by progressive melodic metal masters Vanishing Point from Melbourne, Victoria and will now be joined by Avarin from Sydney, New South Wales. Avarin, featuring former main members of the critically acclaimed but now disbanded act Transcending Mortality, complete and compliment what is already a stunning bill for this genre ensuring that this tour will have highlights for patrons from start to finish. The opportunity to see Royal Hunt live in Australia is more than likely to be the one and only time this distinguished artist will ever grace our shores.
Royal Hunt will tour Australia for the very first time in their history. Royal Hunt are one of the most acclaimed acts of the melodic metal movement of all time having sold more than one million albums worldwide. Royal Hunt also features 'royalty' in terms of band member personnel with D.C. Cooper (Silent Force, Amaran's Plight), Andre Andersen (Cornerstone, Evil Masquerade, Prime Time, John West) and Allan Sorensen (Cornerstone, Prime Time) leading the front line.
Show tickets & VIP meet & greet fan packs + passes on sale now via www.metalmassacre.com.au.
STEPHEN PEARCY ON NOIZE IN THE ATTIC:
The Ratt bastard Stephen Pearcy will be a very special guest on this week's episode of Noize In The Attic (Where Your Past Comes Back To Haunt You) broadcasting this Friday 1-3PM EST on WNHU 88.7FM New Haven, CT (streaming live on www.wnhu.net) Stephen tells the world of their big 2014 plans including their 10th studio album and 30th Anniversary tour! Free podcasts are available on iTunes or by following the link at www.noizeintheattic.com where you can also find additional air-times and affiliates.
GUITAR MASTER ETHAN BROSH UNLEASHES LIVE THE DREAM:
Prepare to be amazed! Live the Dream, the upcoming all-instrumental album from guitar wunderkind Ethan Brosh, is due out March 4 on drumming legend Carmine Appice's new label, Rocker Records LLC, and Brosh's dazzling chops and limitless imagination as a player and composer will undoubtedly delight metal aficionados and fill them with awe.
An honest-to-goodness guitar hero, Brosh, who grew up in Israel, is a daring six-string acrobat who plays with fire and precision, never sacrificing technical proficiency for flashy showmanship although his dynamic, fleet-fingered solos, furious riffs and complex acoustic figures are wildly entertaining. Having added to his already bulging bag of tricks, the Berklee College of Music graduate, now an instructor at the school, soars to new heights on Live the Dream, pushing the envelope with supernatural guitar wizardry and drawing up stunningly inventive musical designs that are wondrous to behold. "Rocker Records and Carmine Appice are excited to be working with one of metal's up-and-coming young stars,"ť said the label's Michael Cusanelli.
They are not alone in their admiration. Mixed by Max Norman (Ozzy Osbourne, Megadeth) and mastered by Bob Ludwig (Bon Jovi, Def Leppard and Iron Maiden), Live the Dream with cover art painted by Joe Petagno is progressive and intellectual in its construction, showcasing refined melodic sensibilities and a maturing instinct for developing intricate and diverse harmonies. Live the Dream, an album Brosh began promoting last spring while touring in support of Yngwie Malmsteen, finds Brosh quickly evolving as a songwriter, even going so far as to effectively experiment with flamenco, trading off nylon string and full-on electric guitar parts in a completely unique and beguiling fashion while also employing the formidable talents of Megadeth's Dave Ellefson in a way nobody would expect.
Brosh used to be in the band Angels of Babylon with Ellefson, who appears on two Live the Dream tracks. Together again, they go nuclear on the track "Rude Awakening."ť "The intent here was to create a heavy, in-your-face kind of tune with a real mean groove to it!"ť said Brosh, joined by bassist Alex Pierce and drummer Tyler LeVander on Live the Dream. "I figured this tune could use the help of the greatest thrash metal bassist Dave Ellefson! I still can't get over how huge Ellefson's bass intro sounds after the incredible mix of Max Norman!"ť
Brosh is just as enthused about the title track. "I feel this tune defines a lot of my guitar playing at this point in time,"ť he said. "It's an epic tune that combines some hard rock riffs that have lots of drive to them. I believe the beginning is a perfect introduction to this record and its dream concept!"ť
A product of an enjoyable creative process, "Space Invaders"ť is mind-blowing as well. "Since this is a guitar instrumental record after all, I figured I'd have some fun with writing a tune that has a fast riff and lots of guitar harmonies, etc., etc. … I'm really proud of the way it came out because I feel the melodies came out strong in the end,"ť said Brosh. "To me, that's really important. People seem to respond really well to this one when we play it live. Maybe it's because it has too many nooooooootes!"ť
It's a good bet they'll embrace "Clean Slate,"ť too. "The tune started as a guitar only idea,"ť said Brosh. "It developed through time. When I sit at the edge of the stage and play this tune, it is an intimate moment between the audience and me, regardless of the crowd size. Once the band joins in with a big bang, it really hits the listener hard! I think we managed to capture that vibe very well on the record, too. I have a feeling this will be a tune that stands out for people!"ť
Track listing for Live the Dream: 1. Live the Dream 2. Forbidden Pleasure 3. Bottomless Pit 4. Knock on Wood 5. Space Invaders 6. Suspicious Exchange 7. Rude Awakening 8. Dawn of an Old Era 9. Clean Slate 10. Silver Lining 11. Up the Stairway 12. When Picks Fly 13. Crying Moon.
For more information on Ethan Brosh, visit www.ethanbrosh.com.
Monday, January 20, 2014
Monday, January 20, 2014
H.E.A.T RELEASE A NEW ALBUM AND HIT THE ROAD: "What can you say about H.E.A.T? If you don't like these energetic Swedes you must be dead inside, as this year they've shown the UK crowd how to be the most complete band on the planet." – Classic Rock
The 9th of April H.E.A.T will be back with the new album Tearing down the walls. Once again they decided to move to Bohus studio with the producer Tobias Lindell to follow up the success of "Address The Nation" 2012.
First single A Shot At Redemption will be released on February 12, together with a couple of bonus tracks. They have toured all over the world, and built a reputation of being a fantastic live act and the leading young band in the melodic rock genre. A tour is booked and more shows will be added.
Current Tour Dates:
7/3 Palacio Vistalegre, Support /Scorpions, Madrid
11/4 Big Bang Rockklubb, Borĺs
12/4 Bruket, Varberg
18/4 Sticky Fingers, Göteborg
25/4 KB, Malmö
30/4 Idunteatern, Umeĺ
2/5 Kulturens hus, Luleĺ
3/5 Stockholm Waterfront, Stockholm
24/5 Leknes Ungdomshus Lofoten, Norge
30/5 Backstage Rockclub @ Livingroom, Sandviken
31/5 Backstage Rockbar, Trollhättan
14/6 Rock on the Docks, Örnsköldsvik 4/10 Melodic Rock Fest, Chicago
24/10 Firefest, UK
ANBERLIN TO CALL IT QUITS:
Melodic modern rockers Anberlin will finish up after delivering one more studio album and a world tour in 2014. The band made the announcement via video this weekend: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa7RabbuOTA#t=185.
TNT RETURN!:
The setlist from the first TNT show with Tony Harnell back in the fold:
1. Give Me a Sign 2. Invisible Noise 3. She Needs Me 4. Downhill Racer 5. My Religion 6. A Nation Free 6. Caught Between the Tigers 7. Guitar Solo (Ronni Le Tekrř) 8. Forever Shine On 9. Tonight I'm Falling 10. End of the Line 11. Intuition 12. As Far as the Eye Can See 13. Seven Seas 14.Encore: 14. Northern Lights 15. 10,000 Lovers (In One) 16. Everyone's a Star.
FORMER KISS KEYBOARDIST SHARES MORE BEHIND THE SCENES STORIES: The Decibel Geek podcast returns this week with the second half of an in-depth discussion with former Kiss keyboardist Gary Corbett; Episode 120 - Gary Corbett Part 2. In this long-form discussion, Corbett shares insider details of inner-band turmoil in the late 1980's and early 1990's including tension between founding members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley.
Corbett also addresses rumors that have swirled for 20+ years about Eric Carr's status in the band during his final years and gives his take on what was going on at the end of Eric's life. Another subject covered in this hour-plus conversation is Corbett's objection to certain stories portrayed in The Eric Carr Story; a book by Greg Prato in which Corbett is quoted.
Other topics discussed include half of KISS donning makeup for the 'Rise to It' video, the band's club tour to promote Revenge, and Corbett's ongoing friendship with current KISS drummer Eric Singer and an icy reception from Paul Stanley to Corbett backstage at a recent KISS show in Nashville, TN. The Decibel Geek podcast started in April of 2011 and is released weekly with music and discussion of hard rock and heavy metal. Hosted by Chris Czynszak and Aaron Camaro, the Decibel Geek podcast has interviewed rock legends and personalities spanning 4 decades.
Direct link to episode: dbgeekshow.blogspot.com/2014/01/episode-120-gary-corbett-part-2.html.
EARLY '80S SENSATION LOVERBOY GETS LUCKY ON INTHESTUDIO.NET:
(Dallas, TX) - InTheStudio.NET, the web home for North American syndicated rock radio show InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands travels to the early Eighties with the Canadian quintet Loverboy who found themselves the right band at the right time. By 1979 Punk had pretty much torpedoed a hole in the side of the Rock'n'Roll battleship and then blown itself up. Disco had left some indelible marks on music production, and Modern Rock, dubbed New Wave by some, was emerging as the ultimate winner, challenging rock's blues-based riffs in this new decade.
Loverboy, a tightly rehearsed band of western Canadian musicians, set out to capitalize on these seemingly disparate trends in popular music. Guitarist Paul Dean and singer Mike Reno would form the band and quickly move it out of the great white north and into America. Their 1980 self-titled debut slowly got attention with songs "The Kid Is Hot Tonight" and "Turn Me Loose", but it would be their melodic rocking live show coupled with the release of their Top 10 album Get Lucky with songs "Working for the Weekend", "When Its Over", "Lucky Ones" and "Take Me to the Top" that would make their music mass appeal.
Mike Reno reveals to InTheStudio host Redbeard how they successfully meshed Paul Dean's hard rock guitar with Matt Frenette's propulsive "four on the floor" beat and Doug Johnson's electronic keyboards.
"We were really into creating a new scene at that point and you'll hear that in the lyrics to The Kid is Hot Tonight", 'we just heard of a brand new wave'. It was all this new wave music, but we were trying to stay rocky... I think Loverboy did have a different sound and it wasn't like anyone else".
STREAM the Loverboy 'Get Lucky' program this month as part of InTheStudio's Medium Rare "online-only" rockumentary series: www.inthestudio.net/online-only-interviews/loverboy-get-lucky-mike-reno-paul-dean/"
~ Coming Soon on Escape Music ~
Friday, January 17, 2014
THE WINERY DOGS UNLEASHED ON DVD: The Winery Dogs will release a live DVD/CD set, titled Unleased In Japan 2103 in Japan this week, with an international release still uncertain. Track listing is:
DVD Tracks: 01. Elevate 02. We Are One 03. Criminal 04. One More Time 05. Time Machine 06. Damaged 07. Six Feet Deeper 08. Mike Portnoy's Drum Solo 09. The Other Side 10. Billy Sheehan's Bass Solo 11. You Saved Me 12. Not Hopeless 13. Stand (Richie Kotzen solo) 14. You Can't Save Me 15. Shine 16. I'm No Angel 17. The Dying 18. Regret 19. Fooled Around And Fell In Love 20. Desire.
CD Disc1: 01. Elevate 02. We Are One 03. Criminal 04. One More Time 05. Time Machine 06. Damaged 07. Six Feet Deeper 08. Mike Portnoy's Drums Solo 09. The Other Side 10. Billy Sheehan's Bass Solo 11. You Saved Me 12. Not Hopeless.
CD Disc2: 01. Stand (Richie Kotzen's Solo) 02. You Can't Save Me 03. Shine 04. I'm No Angel 05. The Dying 06. Regret 07. MC 08. Fooled Around and Fell in Love 09. Desire.
ROCK ON THE RANGE 2014 EXPANDS TO THREE FULL DAYS:
Following last year's expansion to include three nights of music, America's premier rock festival--Rock On The Range--has once again upped the ante by growing to three full days of music for this year's annual event, May 16, 17 & 18 at Columbus Crew Stadium in Columbus, OH.
Featuring headlining sets from Guns N' Roses, Avenged Sevenfold and Kid Rock, the lineup includes more than 60 of the World's hardest rocking acts including: Five Finger Death Punch, Slayer, Staind, Motorhead, Seether, Chevelle, Alter Bridge, Mastodon, Black Label Society, Killswitch Engage and many more (the full line-up is below). Beyond the expanded musical offerings, this year's festival will include the return of ROTR Comedy Tent, featuring Jim Breuer, Jim Florentine and many up-and-coming comedians.
Weekend passes including Field GA, Stadium GA, hotel and VIP packages and a stadium 4-pack go on sale Friday, January 24 at 10:00 AM (ET). Additional details about the variety of ticketing, hotel and camping packages can be found at RockOnTheRange.com. Visit the website, www.facebook.com/rockontherange and www.twitter.com/rockontherange for the most up-to-date information.
Some of the ROTR 2014 artists weigh in with their thoughts on performing this coming May:
The full ROTR 2014 Line-Up: Guns N' Roses, Avenged Sevenfold, Kid Rock, Five Finger Death Punch, Slayer, Staind, Motorhead, Seether, Chevelle, Alter Bridge, Mastodon, Black Label Society, Killswitch Engage, Bring Me The Horizon, Theory of a Deadman, Down, Black Stone Cherry, Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience, Pop Evil, Of Mice & Men, Adelitas Way, Trivium, Gojira, Suicidal Tendencies, The Pretty Reckless, We Came as Romans, Fuel, Redlight King, Miss May I, Reignwolf, Thousand Foot Krutch, Texas Hippie Coalition, Rev Theory, Skindred, Kyng, Fozzy, Heaven's Basement, Butcher Babies, Nothing More, Exodus, King 810, Devour the Day, We As Human, We Are Harlot, Kvelertak, Jim Breuer Band, One OK Rock, Twelve Foot Ninja, Avatar, WERM, Monster Truck, Wilson, Crobot and Truckfighters with comedians Jim Breuer, Jim Florentine and more.
WebLinks: www.RockOnTheRange.com / www.facebook.com/rockontherange / www.twitter.com/rockontherange.
Savage will be playing a special show in their hometown on Saturday 1st February, the show will be the entire Loose 'n' Lethal album and recorded for release as a live album later this year. All advance ticket holders will receive a copy of the album upon its release. Tickets are available here: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/savage-live-n-lethal-tickets-9093267207.
Danish cult rockers D-A-D celebrate 30th anniversary with extensive Best Of CD... Sometimes a title says it it: D-A-D celebrate 30 years of band history with the release of a 2CD set - 30 Years 30 Hits - Best of D-A-D 1984-2014 on January 31. Time to look back, enjoy & look forward to the next 30 years of D-A-D!
HEAVY METAL GIANTS VICIOUS RUMORS START A NEW CHAPTER:
Heavy Metal Giants Vicious Rumors start a new chapter and welcome new band members Nick Holleman on lead vocals, Tilen Hudrap on bass guitar and welcome back Bob Capka on guitar.
Nick, a native of Holland, has a powerful melodic voice with great range and tone. A natural talent with high octane stage presence and endless sustain. VR fans old and new were stunned by his performance on the last tour in the USA. Nick was hired on the spot after band leader Geoff Thorpe saw a video on YouTube! "I just imagined him singing our songs and it works perfectly. Once we met and the chemistry was right I realized I found the right guy for the job!"
Tilen is a native of Slovenia. After a series of auditions, Tilen was hired last summer to fill in on tour. The band liked his aggressive playing and monster stage presence so much that he was invited to join the band as a full time member after his first show in July. Tilen already played 2 world tours with the band (Europe and USA, 50 shows) and appears in the newest video for the title track off the current album "Electric Punishment".
VR welcomes back Bob Capka, who played on the highly acclaimed '' Electric Punishment" CD and has been on 3 tours in Europe and the USA. Bob brings shredding solos and riffs as well as a hunter's killer attitude to the stage show.
Original members guitar player Geoff Thorpe and drummer Larry Howe are proud to officially announce that this killer new line-up has already recorded a new live album!
The legendary institution that is Vicious Rumors is stronger and faster than ever. After eighty shows on tour in 2013, the new VR line-up has recorded the massive "Live U to Death 2 American Punishment". VR has captured the power and precision with classics that have never been recorded live. "Towns on Fire", "Worlds and Machines", "Master Mind", "World Church", "You Only Live Twice", to name a few. Thirteen tracks in total. The album was recorded during the "American Punishment Tour" in the United States of America in Sept/Oct 2013.
Four albums in four years the mighty, VR ball is sharper than ever. Upcoming tours include European summer festivals, a South America Tour in September/October and also Australian/New Zealand shows in 2014'. Vicious Rumors will play the "70.000 Tons of Metal" festival cruise this year from January 27th - January 31st playing the whole "Digital Dictator" album in its entirety for the first time ever!
Don't miss VR's epic Heavy Metal Attack... "Live U to Death 2 American Punishment" on SPV/Steamhammer to be released early 2014. Look for VR on Tour as the ball rolls through your town in the 2014.
Photo from left to right: Tilen Hudrap (bass), Bob Capka (guitar), Nick Hollemann (vocals), Geoff Thorpe (guitar), Larry Howe (drums)
WebLinks: www.viciousrumors.com / de-de.facebook.com/ViciousRumorsThisIsMetal / www.spv.de.
MRX UPDATED:
The following new Live Soundboard shows have been added to MRX today:
- Phil Collins - New York, NY 1990
- John Mellencamp - Mainz Frankfurter Hof FM 1999
- Hooters - 4 Nov 1983 Join MRX Today.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
VANDEN PLAS "GODMAKER" VISION 3HREE (OFFICIAL VIDEO / NEW ALBUM 2014):
Godmaker is taken from the album Chronicles of the Immortals- Netherworld (Path 1) out on Frontiers Records February 21st in Europe and February 24th in North America. Music: Stephan Lill, Lyrics: Andy Kuntz. Vanden Plas: Andy Kuntz (Vocals), Stephan Lill (Guitar), Günter Werno (Keyboard), Torsten Reichert (Bass), Andreas Lill (Drums).
For more info: www.vandenplas.de / www.facebook.com/VandenPlasOfficial / www.frontiers.it.
Dates:
Wed, April 2 - Northcote Social Club - Melbourne
Friday, April 4 - The Factory Floor (Factory Theatre) - Sydney
LYNCH MOB ANNOUNCES THADEUS GONZALEZ (EX-ELECTRIC SISTER) JOINS AS VOCALIST:
15 January 2014 : Los Angeles, CA…Lynch Mob will rock the west coast in February, delivering classic favorites and tracks from the latest record while introducing a new vocalist for the diversely-pedigreed band.
For twelve years with Dokken, George Lynch was able to develop a ground-breaking brand of guitar virtuoso that would also earn a Grammy nomination. In the early 1990s, Lynch launched his own project, Lynch Mob, which harnessed the talent of rock's best players and released several well-received records, from 1990s Wicked Sensation to the most recent Unplugged. Tracks like Wicked Sensation, River of Love and Tangled in the Web have solidified George Lynch's position on Guitar World's list of Greatest Guitarists of All Time. Live, Lynch Mob is described as desert- infused blues-based rock with a penchant for extended improvising, harkening back to the glorious jam days of the late 60's and early 70's.
Lynch's current work also includes the film Shadow Nation,ť which explores a hybrid way of life, merging modern society with the ancient practices of people who have lived in harmony with the land for thousands of years; native American Indians. The film reveals its message through the journey of a group of renowned musical artists as they share their rock music on a road trip through Indian reservations of the southwest. shadowtrainmovie.com/synopsis/ He has also teamed with Arcane Inc. to create a new signature series of Mr. Scary guitar pickups: mrscaryguitars.com/pickups/
The current iteration of Lynch Mob is an unusual combination of rock backgrounds. Bassist Kevin Baldes is an original member of the Orange County alternative rock band Lit. Lit's platinum album A Place In The Sun spawned three top ten hits including My Own Worst Enemy.ť He's also played with Sugarcult, Mest and Good Man Down. Jimmy D'Anda is on drums. With L.A. based rock band BulletBoys and its hit Smooth Up In Ya,ť he earned a Gold album and toured the world with rock's biggest acts.
Being introduced on this tour is new vocalist Thadeus Gonzalez. With Oakland-based Electric Sister, Tad enjoyed critical acclaim from not only the release of The Lost Art Of Rock & Roll, but also supporting gigs with KISS/Motley Crue, Slash, Black Label Society, and Danko Jones. He's been called a frontman to watchť and a definitive rock n' roll voice.ť
Confirmed dates for the Lynch Mob Wynter 2014 tour include:
2/13 Vamp'd Las Vegas, NV
2/14 Whisky A Go Go Hollywood CA
2/15 Brick By Brick San Diego CA
2/19 El Corazon Seattle WA
2/20 Tonic Lounge Portland OR
2/21 The Boardwalk Orangevale CA
2/22 M15 Concert Bar Corona CA
2/23 910 Live Tempe AZ
WebLink: georgelynch.com.
FOREIGNER TO RELEASE "I WANT TO KNOW WHAT LOVE IS - THE BALLADS":
UK Release Date: Monday 3rd February, 2014 / Just in time for Valentine's Day earMUSIC releases "I Want To Know What Love Is – The Ballads", 14 tracks previously never released on one album of Foreigner's best and most timeless ballads. Embracing over thirty years of award winning creativity, "I Want To Know What Love Is – The Ballads" will be released in the UK on Monday 3rd February, 2014 in two different editions: as a standard jewel case, and as a 2CD Special Edition-digipak.
Featuring "I Want To Know What Love Is" originally released on 1984's multi-platinum album Agent Provocateur, the album also includes thirteen songs including classic hits such as "Waiting For A Girl Like You", "Long, Long Way From Home" from 1977's self-titled debut album, as well as some modern masterpieces of their most recent albums Can't Slow Down from 2010 and Acoustique from 2011, all of which are state of the art new recordings featuring Foreigner lead singer Kelly Hansen.
The Special Edition release is a must-have for all the die-hard Foreigner fans. Produced by noted Foreigner bass guitarist, Jeff Pilson, in December 2013, the bonus disc contains previously unreleased performances of all the hits and fan favourites, recorded from an acoustic show for the German radio station SWR1 in July 2013. The album precedes Foreigner's April 2014 UK Tour with special guests Europe and FM, which kicks off on April 3rd at the Manchester o2 Apollo.
With ten multi-platinum albums and sixteen Top 30 hits, Foreigner is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales, now exceeding 75 million. Responsible for some of rock and roll's most enduring anthems, Foreigner continues to rock the charts more than thirty years into the game. "Our music has touched a lot of people worldwide," says Jones. "Unwittingly, we've weaved into the fabric of people's lives."
At Foreigner's core is founder and lead guitarist Mick Jones, the visionary maestro whose stylistic songwriting, indelible guitar hooks and multi-layered talents continue to escalate Foreigner's influence, along with lead vocalist Kelly Hansen, bass guitarist Jeff Pilson, drummer Chris Frazier, and multi-instrumentalist Tom Gimbel. In June 2013, Mick Jones was inducted to the Songwriters Hall Of Fame. A multi-talented and multi-dimensional "musician's musician," Jones has also written songs such as "Bad Love" with Eric Clapton and "Dreamer" with Ozzy Osbourne, and produced records for others including Billy Joel's Storm Front and Van Halen's 5150.
Foreigner had a blockbuster year and a recent surge in popularity due to several of their hits being featured on the Rock Of Ages soundtrack, including "I Want To Know What Love Is", "Juke Box Hero" and "Waiting For A Girl Like You" – more songs than any other one band on the soundtrack. Hollywood quickly took note, and several more tracks were featured in hit films "Anchorman 2", "Magic Mike", and "Pitch Perfect", sending Foreigner downloads up 400%. The video game industry was soon to follow. The blockbuster release, "Grand Theft Auto V" features Foreigner's "Dirty White Boy" and "Hot Blooded" is included in the November 2013 release of "BandFuse." The high visibility of Foreigner's songs continues to introduce the band's music to a whole future generation of fans.
Foreigner are: Mick Jones (guitar), Kelly Hansen (lead vocals), Jeff Pilson (bass, vocals), Michael Bluestein (keyboards), Tom Gimbel (rhythm guitar, sax, vocals), Bruce Watson (guitar) and Chris Frazier (drums).
Tracklist: CD 1 1. I Want To Know What Love Is 2. In Pieces 3. Waiting For A Girl Like You 4. When It Comes To Love 5. Feels Like The First Time 6. Say You Will 7. The Flame Still Burns 8. Save Me 9. I Can´t Give Up 10. Fool For You Anyway 11. As Long As I Live 12. I´ll Be Home Tonight 13. Double Vision 14. Long, Long Way from Home.
CD 2 (special edition): 1. Double Vision 2. Long, Long Way From Home 3. Say You Will 4. When It Comes To Love 5. Waiting For A Girl Like You 6. Dirty White Boy 7. That's All Right 8. Fool For You Anyway 9. Feels Like The First Time 10. Juke Box Hero 11. I Want To Know What Love Is
12. Hot Blooded.
STEEL PANTHER OFF ALL YOU CAN EAT:
The new Steel Panther album All You Can Eat is due for release April 1 - the track listing (as colourful as always) is: 1. Pussywhipped 2. Party Like Tomorrow Is The End Of The World 3. Gloryhole 4. Bukkake Tears 5. Gangbang At The Old Folks Home 6. Ten Strikes You're Out 7. The Burden Of Being Wonderful 8. F@#king My Heart In The Ass 9. BVS 10. You're Beautiful When You Don't Talk 11. If I Was The King 12. She's On The Rag.
THE MAC IS COMPLETE ONCE AGAIN: Fleetwood Mac's publicist, Liz Rosenberg, has confirmed to Billboard that Christine McVie has re-joined the band after departing the group in 1998. Rosenberg says that McVie "has indeed re-joined Fleetwood Mac and we are hoping to make an announcement about a possible tour for the full tilt Macsters some time in 2014." More at: www.billboard.com/articles/news/5869665/christine-mcvie-rejoins-fleetwood-mac-official.
METAL BRIEFS:
This news has been a long time coming. Secretly Edguy have sneaked into the studio to record the follow up to their chart breaking 2011 album 'Age Of The Joker' (#3 in Germany). The band has issued the following brief statement from the studio: "We have focused on what makes this band unique and recorded what we believe is going to be the strongest & heaviest album this band has ever recorded. We didn't waste any time with updates or distractions. There is no doubt, that this album is going to be the album we'll be measured against in the future. And it makes us proud to say that as a band that has been existing for over 22 years now, fully aware that the best is yet to come."
The album is in the mixing process right now and will be out in April. More details will be revealed soon.
On March, 28 the new Sonata Arctica album Pariah's Child will be released. It is the band's eight studio album and the follow up to their successful 'Stones Grow Her Name'. Today the beautiful cover artwork for 'Pariah's Child' will be released. Vocalist Tony Kakko explains he thoughts behind the album title and the artwork like this: "As always it's pretty hard coming up with a name for the new baby. I tried to approach it from many angles; how this is our 8th album and how easy it would be to abuse that fact. All the symbolism of figure eight, eternity and so on. But that just did not feel right as it's been done so many times. Then I started to think how we'd in ways abandoned our "totem animal", the wolf and all what comes with the territory. As the music on the album is bowing more towards the "old" Sonata, meaning more power metal style elements and wolves in many of the songs in one form or another, it was clear we need a wolf on the cover. An abandoned wolf. A pariah. Or Pariah's child, actually. The new generation to bring the old logo back."
On May16, Swedish Heavy Metal band Sabaton will release the follow up to their successful Carolus Rex record, which will be called Heroes. Today Sabaton release an additional cover artwork and leave the following statement: "Hi everyone, and many thanks for the huge response on our new album artwork made by Peter Sallai. Just like Carolus Rex and Swedish Empire Live our new album Heroes will have an alternate artwork for some editions. Here it is, what do you think?"
The most strong-voiced band of the world Van Canto releases their fifth album Dawn of the Brave and elevates their unique A Cappella Metal to the next level. Only supported by a drummer, the German sextet offers the perfect blend of sweeping original songs and cover versions of legendary Rock classics such as "Paranoid" (Black Sabbath) or "The Final Countdown" (Europe). As a special bonus, more than 200 Van Canto fans took part in the choir recordings, and can hear themselves on the new album. Charlie Bauerfeind (Blind Guardin, Helloween, etc.) produced the drum recordings. The album was mixed by sound wizard Ronald Prent (Manowar, Rammstein, etc.) at the legendary Wisseloord Studio 2. He gave the A Cappella sound and outstanding and omnipresent dynamic. The artwork is based on superhero concept, and this theme runs as a red thread through the photographs and visual design which was provided by Stefan Heilemann. Once more Van Canto shows the scene, that it doesn't need electric guitars to rock!
WebLinks: www.vancanto.de / www.facebook.com/vancantoband.
ALL STAR NAMM CONCERT UPDATE: Derek St. Holmes, best known for his role as Ted Nugent's vocalist & rhythm guitarist, has been added to the Sky Academy & Extreme Cream Mega-Event in conjunction with Dean Guitars Derek will be backed by members of Alcatrazz and perform Stranglehold & other Ted Nugent, MSG & Whiford St. Holmes hits from his career with these bands. The response to these shows has been extremely positive and we have worked hard to put together an all-star line-up that is sure to impress. We have received several generous donations to help with our efforts and decided that we will use this influx of funding in several ways to benefit the overall good of this event.
That's why we are excited to offer a limited number of reduced priced tickets which are now available for the Sunday Jan 26th show at Ramona Mainstage - see their web site for details. www.ramonamainstage.com.
These tickets are available on a first come basis and once sold out are gone. The expenses involved in producing shows like this are immense and It is a positive experience for everyone that we are able to do something like this and make shows more affordable. It is always a fine line to keep ticket prices in check in this economy.
Four Days...Two Cities...One Epic event!! Featured will be live concerts every night preceded earlier in the day by artists/instructors teaching in small groups. Also available are special fan VIP packages including one on one meet & greets.
Below are some of the key performers:
*Gary Hoey (solo artist, Heavy Bones) *Uli Jon Roth (Scorpions, Electric Sun, Extreme Cream, solo artist) *James Kottak (Scorpions, Kingdom Come, Warrant, Montrose, McAuley Schenker Group) *Vinnie Appice (Dio, Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell, Derringer & Kill Devil Hill) *Michael Angelo Batio (Nitro, Holland, C4, solo artist) *Derek St. Holmes (Ted Nugent, MSG, Whitford St. Holmes, Vanilla Fudge) *Elliot Dean Rubinson (MSG, Uli Jon Roth, Cactus, CEO/owner of Dean Guitars) *Craig Goldy (Dio, Giuffria, Rough Cut, Budgie) *Kofi Baker (Extreme Cream, Ohm, Abstract Logic, solo artist) *Roy Z (Halford, Bruce Dickenson, Warrior, Tribe of Gypsies) *Howie Simon (Jeff Scott Soto, Alcatrazz) *Mark Boals (Yngwie Malmsteen, Uli Jon Roth, Ring of Fire, Royal Hunt, solo artist) *Rob Pagliari (Extreme Cream, Ohm). Very Special guest...*Don Dokken (Dokken, Scorpions, solo artist)
Additional artists to be named soon.
The Friday & Saturday events will be held at Malone's (604 Dyer Rd., Santa Ana, CA 92705 ph 714-979-6000). Friday will revolve around the theme of the world's first Super Group & greatest Jam Band... Cream! Each artist will have a full set deriving songs from this classic era of music. Kofi Baker's Extreme Cream MkIII with Roy Z & Mark Boals will open the night. Headlining the night will be Extreme Cream MkII with Uli Jon Roth & Kofi (as an added note of historical importance, MkI is Mike Keneally & MkIV is Gary Hoey). In between the jamming bookends of Uli & Roy will be full sets from Michael Angelo Batio playing his entire Hands Without Shadows - A Tribute to Rock Guitar and CGP - Craig Goldy Project with Elliott Dean Rubinson, Vinnie Appice and Mark Boals! Added to the show will be Derek St. Holmes playing his Ted Nugent, MSG & Whitford St. Holmes hits with members of Alcatrazz supporting him. Don Dokken & Uriah Duffy are scheduled to guest.
Saturday at Malone's will feature James Kottak of the Scorpions teaming up with Uli Jon Roth as they play early era Scorpions with a few surprises thrown in! Performing during Uli's set is CGP-The Craig Goldy Project & Don Dokken is scheduled to guest.
Sunday January 26th at Ramona Main Stage (626 Main St., Ramona CA 92065 ph# 760-789-7008) www.ramonamainstage.com features Headliners Gary Hoey playing Extreme Cream MkIV with MkII guitarist Uli Jon Roth. Also on the bill is Michael Angelo Batio performing an extended Hands Without Shadows - A Tribute to Rock Guitar, CGP - The Craig Goldy Project w/ Vinnie Appice & Derek St. Holmes playing his Ted Nugent, MSG & Whitford St. Holmes hits with members of Alcatrazz supporting him.
Monday's Ramona show features an all-day Sky Academy Seminar with Uli Jon Roth & guest instructor Craig Goldy (Certified by the State of CA) teaching song writing. Guitar luthier Jim Palmer from Guitar ER http://theguitarer.us/ and 111 Guitars will be giving a presentation on the importance of having a properly maintained guitar and how it is an essential link for inspiration & top-level performance. Jim will be offering complimentary guitar set ups & consultation valued at $100. The evening features James Kottak of the Scorpions joining original Scorpions guitarist Uli Jon Roth for a full set of early Scorpions classics.
Separate tickets for live concert performances, Sky Academy instruction, VIP meet & greet sessions for Friday, Saturday & Sunday afternoons are now available for each of the four events through the venues web site Ramonamainstage.com & brownpapertickets.com or visit ExtremeCreamBand.com for more details.
SCHENKER TALKS: Rockpages Web Magazine just posted an exclusive interview with Michael Schenker regarding the promotion of his latest album "Bridge The Gap". Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: I am sure you know that every Scorpions fan around the world is more than happy to see you play once again with Herman Rarebell and Francis Bucholz. How does it feel for you to be performing with those two guys? Michael Schenker: Things happen for a reason…I didn't expect that I would be making another album with these guys after all these years. It is a fantastic feeling. When Pete couldn't make the tour, I asked Herman to ask Francis if he would be interested in touring with us. Francis was more than happy to be back on tour and you know something…it was obvious…almost immediately that there was a great chemistry…especially with Doogie as our singer. It started to develop and it turned out really good. We had so much fun on stage that I decided to capture the moment on DVD before something happens (laughs). So we ended up in Tilburg and filmed the show for the DVD. Then, as the tour continued, the shows were getting better and better. More offers were made and so we started the second leg of the European Tour. It was such a great atmosphere within the band that I asked the guys if they wanted to do a record with me. Everybody agreed and I started almost immediately to write songs. By the end of the year (2012), I presented some songs to Doogie and I told him: think "bridge the gap" and think melodic (laughs)! The album was ready on the 31st of March. I remember it because on the 4th of April we played our first show in Russia. Then I had to wait for 6 months until the album hit the stores…it was OK because we had the chance to edit some stuff and improve some parts that we felt were not so great. We were able to reach the perfection that we needed with "Bridge The Gap".
Read The Full Interview Here: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=10027&type=1&lang=EN.
JIMMY PAGE & ROBERT PLANT REVEAL SECRET TO LED ZEPPELIN I SUCCESS INTHESTUDIO:
Dallas, TX - January 14, 2014. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands commemorates a seismic event in rock history on the 45th anniversary of Led Zeppelin I with a revealing look back at the band's formation and the creation of its historic debut album with band architect Jimmy Page and legendary frontman Robert Plant.
Guitarist Jimmy Page of the Yardbirds and bassist John Paul Jones were young schooled London session players. Singer Robert Plant and drummer John Bonham were talented but untested English Midlands musicians whose raw musicianship and earthy feel were a surprisingly effective contrast. Together the four redefined the limits of rock music while magnifying its visceral power, its reckless abandonment and, yes, some of its faults. Led Zeppelin I received a surprising number of negative reviews from music critics, igniting a debate on whether white musicians could play Afro-American Blues without negatively exploiting the originators, a debate which would dog Led Zeppelin for their first four now-iconic albums.
On January 17, 1969 Led Zeppelin thundered onto the world stage with its debut album and songs "Communication Breakdown", "Good Times, Bad Times", "Dazed and Confused", and "Babe I'm Gonna Leave You" displaying great musical diversity, dynamics, and sounds previously unheard in rock, electrifying the masses (if not rock critics) and selling north of 10 million copies in the U.S. alone.
Jimmy Page tells InTheStudio host Redbeard why he believes Led Zeppelin was so successful from the beginning. "I think everyone was inspired in that band. I think everyone was a star. There wasn't a weakness there. Every single person was strong."
Led Zeppelin I / InTheStudio interview program is available now to STREAM at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/led-zeppelin-1-45th-anniversary-jimmy-page-robert-plant/
LIVE FROM DARYL'S HOUSE RETURNS WITH A BANG: DARYL HALL AND ZZ TOP'S BILLY GIBBONS:
NEW YORK, Jan. 13, 2014-Live from Daryl's House is back from a year-long hiatus and better than ever! The first new episode begins the new year with a meeting of two genuine legends and Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, as newly inducted member Daryl Hall joins iconic ZZ Top guitarist Billy Gibbons for the 63rd and latest edition of the critically acclaimed, award-winning, web-to-cable series. The opening episode of what promises to be a jam-packed 2014 premieres on Daryl's dedicated LFDH.com website on Wednesday, January 15, followed by its cable debut on Viacom's high-definition music channel Palladia on Thursday, February 6 at 11 PM ET.
Billy Gibbons is a founding member and guitarist for the famed Texas blues-rock band ZZ Top with bassist Dusty Hill and drummer Frank Beard, who were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004. The band, formed in Houston in 1969, boasts seven platinum and 11 gold records, selling more than 25 million in U.S. album sales alone.
Daryl and Billy launch into a remarkably diverse seven-song set of Daryl Hall and John Oates and ZZ Top chestnuts along with a vintage cover of Hammond B-3 jazz-blues organist Jimmy McGriff's 1963 instrumental, "Kiko." The pair also perform such deep Daryl Hall tunes as "Bank on Your Love," a song from Daryl Hall and John Oates' hit album, Big Bam Boom and "Love You Like a Brother," recorded in 1973, but unreleased until 1977's Atlantic Records hits compilation, No Goodbyes. The twosome lean into four ZZ Top nuggets, the band's cover of Sam & Dave's "I Thank You," from the 1979 album Deguello; the classic "La Grange," included on 1973's Tres Hombres; "Sharp Dressed Man" from 1983's 10-million-selling Eliminator, and the group's version of the Nightcaps' '50s rave-up, "Thunderbird." "Playing Live from Daryl's House is a regular, down-to-earth, big bash," said Gibbons about the experience. "Good groovin' to the core." "Being in a room with Billy Gibbons is like dipping your toe into the deep wellspring of Texas rock, blues and soul," says Daryl.
The past seven years have marked a steady stream of superlatives and recognition for Live from Daryl's House, with Hall receiving a Webby Award for Best Variety series from more than 10,000 entries at the 14th annual ceremony at N.Y.'s Cipriani Wall Street before garnering an O Music Award from MTV.
Monday, January 13, 2014
ROYAL HUNT'S TOUR TO DIE FOR: Royal Hunt is going on tour to support their new studio album ťA Life To Die For (released in November/December 2013 on Frontiers Records and Marquee Inc.). While the band is getting ready for the tour, their latest studio offering has been met with great enthusiasm from the critics and fans alike. The new album is receiving excellent reviews across the board all over the world. You can enjoy an official lyric video for the title track of the album at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=97KICGmPzmI. Royal Hunt will have a special guest, a Swedish band Cloudscape, www.cloudscape.se, on the European part of the tour (Feb. 22 – March 13)
You can catch Royal Hunt on the following dates:
Feb. 22 – Sweden, Helsingborg at * The Tivoli*
Feb. 23 – Denmark, Copenhagen at *Amager Bio*
Feb. 25 - Belgium, Verviers at *Spirit of 66*
Feb. 27 - Spain, Barcelona at *Sala Bikini*
Feb. 28 - Spain, Madrid at *Sala Lemon*
March 01 - Spain, San Sebastian at *C.C. Intxaurrondo*
March 02 – Spain, Zaragoza at *Sala Lopez*
March 04 - Germany, Bremen at *Meisenfrei Blues Club*
March 05 – UK, London at *The Underworld*
March 06 – UK, Sheffield at *Corporation*
March 07 – Netherlands, Uden at *De Pule*
March 08 – Germany, Burgrieden at *Riffelhof*
March 09 – Switzerland, Uster at *Star Club*
March 11 – Italy, Brescia at *Circolo Colony*
March 12 – Slovakia, Bratislava at *Club Randal*
March 13 – Hungary, Budapest at *A38*
March 14 – Ukraine, Kiev at *Bingo*
March 15 – Ukraine, Chernigov at *GDK*
March 17 – Ukraine, Illichevsk at *Metropolis*
March 19 – Russia, Krasnodar City at *Arena Hall*
March 20 – Russia, Stavropol at *DDT*
March 22 – Russia, St. Petersburg at *Zal Ozhidania*
March 23 – Russia, Moscow at *KZ Mir*
March 25 – Russia, Vladivostok at *Fesco Hall*
March 27 – Japan, Tokyo at *Shibuya O-East*
March 28 – Japan, Osaka at *Club Quattro*
March 29 – South Korea, Seoul at *Sang SangMadang*
March 30 – Taiwan, Taipei at *Pipe Live House*
NEW EDEN'S CURSE STUDIO DIARY ONLINE:
Multinational Melodic Metal band Eden's Curse have posted the fifth edition of their studio diaries online which features new vocalist Nikola Mijic (Alogia, Dreyelands, Expedition Delta) recording his vocals for groups fourth album "Symphony Of Sin" which was released worldwide by AFM Records on 4th October 2013. The video can be viewed: youtu.be/enwoKt0MZTY.
The latest video covers Mijic recording at the Masquerade Ball Studio under the tutelage of Bassist and album Producer Paul Logue and includes a behind-the-scenes insight into the tracking of the songs "Symphony Of Sin", the records lead single "Evil & Divine", "Where Is The Love?" and "Fallen From Grace".
This latest edition comes hot on the heels of the fourth edition which featured Dutch Orchestral composer and arranger Frank Van Essen of Strings Attached documenting the process behind the orchestra intro piece for the album and song "Symphony Of Sin". The group also released a alternative band only performance of their promo video "Evil & Divine". The video's can be viewed here: youtu.be/s4H4S_iU4Oc / youtu.be/kL-JZP6YJbQ.
Eden's Curse will be touring the United Kingdom in support of the new album "Symphony Of Sin" later in the Spring.
WebLinks: www.edenscurse.com / www.facebook.com/edenscurseofficial / www.twitter.com/edenscurse.
THE DEAD DAISIES BACK HOME TO ROCK AUSTRALIA:
Announce Tour Dates & Release anticipated self-titled Debut Album. Album: "The Dead Daisies" - Release date: February 7, 2014
SYDNEY, Australia (January 13, 2014) - Australia will have the chance to welcome back one of their hottest musical exports in years when The Dead Daisies kick off a series of shows supporting the February 7 release of their anticipated Debut self-titled Album, The Dead Daisies.
The line-up for the Australian dates will feature Jon Stevens (INXS/Noiseworks), David Lowy (Red Phoenix/Mink), Richard Fortus (Guns N' Roses/Psychedelic Furs), Dizzy Reed (Guns N' Roses/Hookers & Blow), Marco Mendoza (Thin Lizzy/Whitesnake) and newcomer to the band, John Tempesta (The Cult/Rob Zombie). "I'm really excited about the release of The Dead Daisies debut album in Australia. We've been on tour in the US and UK over the last 6 months and can't wait to play shows at home all through February. The Dead Daisies will be rocking around Australia...hope to see you there....cheers Jon" – Jon Stevens "I'm really looking forward to playing shows with The Dead Daisies next month in Australia. It's gonna be a blast to share the stage with such Incredible musicians! See ya there!" - John Tempesta
Off the back of a whirlwind year which saw the group tour with Aerosmith, headline a stage across North America on the 25 date Rockstar Energy UPROAR Festival alongside Alice in Chains and Jane's Addiction, and play sell out shows throughout the UK & Israel, The Dead Daisies are set to play a series of dates across the country.
"The Dead Daisies played a hard-hitting set of its own, made all the more dramatic since Australian singer Jon Stevens, hopped around the stage "like a (expletive) kangaroo" because of a recently broken leg… but the group kept the crowd moving to debut album songs such as "Lock'N'Load" and "Miles in Front of Me," plus a cover of the Beatles' "Helter Skelter." - The Oakland Press (US)
"The Dead Daises bring you stylish classic rock melded with blues … There is nothing dead about this band." - Yorkshire Evening Post (UK)
"Cannot give The Dead Daisies anything less than a perfect score … this is everything you could possibly want in a record." 10/10 - My Global Mind (UK)
"Loud ballsy catchy rock/pop played with real conviction." - Babysue (US)
"Concocted weave of seventies-to-eighties blues and hard rock... a good knockabout album to pull down a round of suds." - Blabbermouth
"Chunky blues sound thicker than a 12oz steak and with just as much meat on it." - The Black Flag (UK)
The Dead Daisies have continually been talked about in both American and British rock media including features in Rolling Stone & Classic Rock magazines and played on over 30 American rock stations, Planet & Classic Rock Radio, Kerrang Radio and Radio 2 in the UK as well as Alice Cooper and Nikki Six's popular globally syndicated radio programs.
The 12-track self-titled debut album features their UK hit single "Lock N' Load" feat. Slash, which was co-written by Slash and features the inimitable guitar playing of the legendary guitarist. The song came in at number 15 in UK Classic Rock magazines Top 100 songs of the Year, beating new releases from artists such as Black Sabbath and David Bowie. Their second single in Australia "Washington" looks to be a potential summer anthem and already can be heard on Triple M.
Along with the Australian dates and release of their debut album, The Dead Daises will also launch their new Official Fan Club. With plans for more releases and tours of Australia, Europe, USA and other territories', 2014 is already shaping up to be as big and as busy for The Dead Daises as 2013…
Don't miss The Dead Daises at one of the following venues:
Australian Tour Dates:
Thurs 6/02/14 The Gov – Adelaide, SA
Fri 7/02/14 The Old Mill – Hahndorf, SA
Sat 8/02/14 Annie's Lane DOTG – Clare, SA
Sat 15/02/14 Rochford Wines DOTG – Yarra Valley, VIC
Sun 16/02/14 Esplanade Hotel – Melbourne, VIC
Fri 21/02/14 Taronga Zoo – Sydney, NSW (with Jimmy Barnes)
Sat 22/02/14 Bateau Bay Hotel – Bateau Bay, NSW (with Jimmy Barnes)
Sun 23/02/14 Oxford Arts Factory – Sydney, NSW
Tues 25/02/14 Country Club Casino - Launceston, TAS
Wed 26/02/14 Wrestpoint Casino Showroom - Hobart, TAS
Fri 28/02/14 Mulwala Water Ski Club – Mulwala, NSW
Sat 1/03/14 Albury SS&A Club – Albury, NSW
Visit The Dead Daisies online at: www.thedeaddaisies.com / www.facebook.com/TheDeadDaisies / twitter.com/TheDeadDaisies.
FORMER KISS KEYBOARDIST OPENS UP ABOUT LATE 80'S & EARLY 90'S EXPERIENCES WITH BAND: The Decibel Geek Podcast has released Part 1 of a 2 part conversation with Gary Corbett who's worked with Kiss, Cinderella, and many others. In part 1, many topics are discussed including Gary's hiring for the Crazy Nights tour and Gene Simmons' subsequent hazing of the keyboardist during soundcheck. Also discussed is Gary's appearance with Kiss for 1988's Monsters of Rock festival as well as the band being managed by Dr. Jesse Hilsen; Paul Stanley's psychotherapist.
We also begin to touch on Gary's deep friendship with Eric Carr and his memories of Eric always going the extra mile to please fans while, at the same time, feeling stifled by his bosses in Kiss. Lots of interesting details are discussed in this no-holds-barred conversation.
Stream the episode at link below: dbgeekshow.blogspot.com/2014/01/episode-119-gary-corbett-part-1.html.
Friday, January 10, 2014
JORN PROMOTES TRAVELLER WITH NEW VIDEOS: Frontiers Records is pleased to show not one but THREE new videos for the song "Overload" taken from Jorn's latest studio album "Traveller" available NOW on Frontiers Records!
Overload - Live Footage Music Video Czech Republic (Official Video / New Album 2013)
MORE COMING SOON...: CJ Vanston (producer/writer): "First day working on the new Toto album, Luke, Paich and Joseph Williams all in the studio...Steve Porcaro joining tomorrow. Pumped!"
Tesla: "Starting rehearsals Monday for this years shows AND making a new album! Also it is 20th anniversary of Bust A Nut! So we are gonna slip a few songs from that album in the set! Stay tuned.....Frank Hannon."
Neal Schon: "Coming soon on Frontiers Records..."
THE RETURN OF EZ LIVIN':
The German-American Hard Rock group EZ Livin' is centered around mastermind and Bonfire guitar player Hans Ziller with former Accept singer David Reece on the mic!
Founded in 1991, EZ Livin' in the same year have sold 20.000 copies of their debut album "After The Fire" in Europe alone. After the release of the record, the band successfully went on the road as part of the Metal Hammer Roadshow together with Axel Rudi Pell, Casanova, Coracko and Domain.
Now, in the year 2013, Hans Ziller has called some new colleagues to get the group going again. The guitarist added some familiar names to the line-up: Harry Reischmann, who's known as drummer of Ziller's other band Bonfire, Ronnie Parkes (Tango Down and Seven Witches) on bass guitar, Paul Morris (Rainbow) on keyboards, piano & organ and none other than the aforementioned former Accept front man David Reece (Bangaloire Choir) are completing this band which is playing melodic Hard Rock with a bluesy touch. Chris Lyne (Mother Road and ex Soul Doctor) appears as guest on guitars.
The new album Firestorm will be released on 02.28.2014 via Sony Music and was mixed & mastered by Alessandro Del Vecchio (Hardline etc.) EZ Livin'are ready to rock the European stages again in April 2014!
The band will perform both old and new songs from its own catalogue but also offer the classic songs from Bonfire and Accept – a tour not to miss!
Track listing: That's How He Rocks, Loaded Gun, White Lightning, Let's Fly Away, Easy Living, The Damage Is Done, Too Late, Into The Night.
VANISHING POINT: COVER ARTWORK & TRACKLISTING UNVEILED:
February 21 will see Australian melodic metallers Vanishing Point release their brand new studio album Distant Is The Sun - the first since 2007's "The Fourth Season".
Watch the "making of" video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFQDm50kp_Q.
Tracklist: 01. Beyond Redemption (Intro) 02. King Of Empty Promises 03. Distant Is The Sun 04. When Truth Lies 05. Circle Of Fire 06. Let The River Run 07. Denied Deliverance 08. Story Of Misery 09. Era Zero 10. Pillars Of Sand 11. As December Fades 12. Handful Of Hope 13. Walls Of Silence 14. April (Instrumental).
INTRODUCING THE SUMMIT:
On May 14 Rambo/Gain will release the debut album from The Summit. The Summit is a new collaboration between old friends, among them members of classic Swedish rock bands 220 Volt and Easy Action. The album is described as a nod to the members own musical references and influences, mainly from the 70s. A first single will be released mid-April, but before that the band will release at least two videos. The first was shot during the recording of the album.
Click here: youtu.be/-4UithTqu0I.
A short bio: "Wanna make an album? It has to be quick!"
An unexpected clash of elements, several years in the making but assembled in just a short couple of months. In October of 2011 Björn "B" Höglund (drummer of Easy Action and Hoven Droven) made the call to Mats Karlsson (220 Volt) and explained what he had in mind.
For him, a dream team consisting of Mats, singer and childhood friend Michael Klemmé (Marmalade Souls) and bass player Lars Ericsson. Both with who Björn had played with since eighth grade. A carefully picked team of great players and established songwriters with the same background, musical taste and origin.
The task; a quickly assembled album with a nod to the 70s.
Tired of being tied up in several album projects, years in the making, Björn wanted to write and record quickly, just like many of his favourite albums were made in the 70:s, and the music had to fit the same idea. Within hours everyone was on board. At this time Michael and Mats had never even met.
Stepping up to the challenge, the boys began writing in January. Out of some 16 songs written, recording began in April and eleven songs were completed during the fall of 2012.
The result; a modern sounding 70:s rock album with several nods to the all the bands that shaped Mats, Björn, Michael and Lars musically, without ripping off any of them. Well crafted songwriting in the hands of potent players with years of experience from the stage and the studio.
This is The Summit: www.jointhesummit.com.
RIK EMMETT RETURNS TO TEXAS: Rik Emmett of Triumph Solo Acoustic Performance Saturday, February 22, 2014 - The Sanctuary Music & Events, 6633 Virginia Parkway; McKinney, TX / Doors 7pm / Show 8pm.
Openers: Charlie Farren (Joe Perry Project/Farrenheit) and Jonah Smith (Plowboy)
Tickets on sale Friday, January 10 at 10am CST: www.rikemmettmckinney2014.eventbrite.com.
DREAM THEATER LAUNCHES ITS FIRST 360° INTERACTIVE APP (iOS): Dream Theater are proud to announce their first 360° App (iOS). The DreamTheater360° App will offer fans a unique 360° interactive experience into the Grammy-nominated progressive metal titans' performance as captured onstage by Mativision® multi-camera 360° video technology at Luna Park in Buenos Aires. (App Promo video: youtu.be/NthrisVjOC0). The DreamTheater360° App is released on January 9, 2014 and it promises to be a thrilling way for fans to interactively experience the band's onstage world.
The DreamTheater360° App in its first release will include five interactive songs filmed and produced using the Mativision technology, which virtually transports fans directly onto the Luna Park stage right next to the band members and completely immerses them in a unique experience that they can control in real time. Each fan can direct the show by manipulating Mativision's multi-camera iOS player, and enjoy the concert in any way they want. They can seamlessly choose to switch from among six different cameras while also being able to rotate camera angles by taping and dragging, or by using the device's built-in gyroscope. Fans can even zoom in and out or simply switch to "auto pilot" mode and enjoy the show without interaction.
With this groundbreaking app, Dream Theater aim to share with fans all the intense moments of a live performance from right beside them on stage, and provide fans with true interactivity to experience the onstage moments with complete freedom.
Along with the unique interactive 360° content, the DreamTheater360° App will also include enriched up-to-date band-related content such as a biography, discography, photos, and continuously updated tour information, news, and social media.
The first release will be just the start: Mativision will constantly surprise fans with frequent updates, adding more and more amazing and exclusive band content. The DreamTheater360° App is available from the iOS AppStore on the 9th of January, priced at $9.99.
FAST-RISING ROCKERS SILVERTUNG UNLEASH KILLER 'DEVIL'S IN THE DETAILS':
If it's high-octane rock you're craving - with tons of attitude - then Silvertung is your band, and 'Devil's in the Details' is your album. Produced/engineered by Steven Wright (who has worked with everyone from Slipknot to Avril Lavigne), the just-released 'Devil's in the Details' is chock full of no-nonsense, hard-hitting hard rock/heavy metal, as evidenced by the lead-off single, "Coming Alive," as well as such awesome cuts as "Justify" and "Déjŕ Vu." As the group's singer/guitarist, Speed, explains, "This group of songs is definitely special. This CD is much more diverse, and I'd say it's 'deeper'."
And the early reviews have been stellar, as evidenced by this quote from All Access Magazine - "'Devil's In The Details' is a smoking showcase of huge tones and monster riffs. Basically, no frills riff rock! Silvertung promises to be one of the hottest new rock bands to arrive on the rock music scene. Highly recommended."
Hailing from Maryland, Silvertung is comprised of Speed, lead guitarist ZZ, bassist Skoot, and drummer Danno, and have created a tremendous local buzz, on the strength of their live show, which has seen the quartet share the stage with countless national acts, including Godsmack, Disturbed, Shinedown, Slipknot, Staind, Papa Roach, Buckcherry, Filter, Drowning Pool, and P.O.D., among countless others.
And while it's their music and live performance that truly speaks for itself, the band also possesses quite an interesting moniker, as well. "The name Silvertung was revived from an 80's porno movie, though the spelling was 'Silver Tongue'," recalls Speed. "We were practicing in my uncle's basement. And being guys, we had to check out these old porno tapes. Tapes! I think they were VHS tapes. [Laughs] But I really liked the name, just did not like the spelling. But then 'The Simpsons' had an episode 'Silver Tongue,' and I thought, 'Ok, this is a sign.' But I still did not like the spelling. So I thought, 'What about Tung instead of Tongue?' Heard something about the Korean Mafia, the Tungs. Thought that was very cool. The name Silvertung was born…"
And as with all true hard rock bands, you can expect Silvertung to deliver the goods on the concert stage. "We are absolutely passionate about live music," says ZZ. "It's this exchange of energy from us to the crowd, then from the crowd right back to us. There is nothing else like it in the world. When the fans are singing our music back to us word for word, and their volume is louder than ours...wow. It doesn't get any better than that."
For more information, visit: Silvertung.com / facebook.com/Silvertungband.
SEX, DRUGS AND ROCK AND ROLL PART I: SEX BY STEVIE ADAMEK:
Sex was a strategic part of the touring experience in the late 1970s when my band, Bighorn, was touring with Van Halen, Journey, Boston, Triumph, and the J. Geils Band. It was after birth control and before AIDs, and the sheer amount of consensual sex that went on between groupies and bands was perhaps the most it's ever been either before or since. There was an unspoken deal between female fans and guys like me in rock and roll. To mitigate the boredom, loneliness and the adrenaline high of performing, we both used sex to soothe our souls and keep ourselves occupied. It filled a variety of roles for both parties: sleep aid, tension releaser and comfort for the men, power and proximity to fame for the women.
The Number One Enemy: Boredom
Being on tour was a life of extremes. You'd have an hour, maybe an hour a half max of an 18,000 person party, and then 22 hours of trying to sleep, riding in planes and cars, and being bored, trying to stay out of trouble. Except we didn't try very hard. There were no cellphones, no internet. All we had was a VCR and Eddie Murphy and Richard Pryor movies in the hotel room that we memorized line for line. For a bunch of high strung, neurotic young guys, this was bound to be trouble.
David Lee Roth's Room of Girls
If you're a Van Halen fan, you've probably heard about David Lee Roth's "Girl Room." Certain members of the road crew were assigned to pick out the most voluptuous, tantalizing girls they could find in the crowd and give them a backstage pass, inviting them to the post show festivities. This room did exist; it was usually a dressing room in which Roth would host a number of these beautiful women. He'd be there talking to them, chatting them up. Everyone in the opening band, like ours, would be there, too. (We rarely saw Eddie or Alex, they had their own parties going on.) But David always had the best girls, and he was generous enough to let us hang out and socialize with his "cast-offs." He was very generous, and we were as happy to be invited to "The Room" as the girls were. It was like a version of speed dating. The goal was not a group orgy, it was to winnow down the choices. We would talk to a bunch of prospective partners to figure out who was the most willing, and then pick out 3-5 girls to come back to our own hotel rooms.
It was like a series of mini-parties for each band member and the girls he picked out, smoking, talking and drinking, trying to figure out which one (or two) was going to be willing to actually end the evening having sex with us.
The full article from Michael Brandvold here: solveigandstevie.com/sex-drugs-and-rock-and-roll-part-i-sex-by-stevie-adamek/
MRX UPDATED:
Added to MRX today - The Billboard Rock Top 40 from 1984 - THE WHOLE LOT!; plus 2 new killer live shows - Stevie Nicks - Great Woods PAC August 1989 and Big Country - Opry House, Austin, USA 1984. Join MRX Now.
Thursday, January 09, 2014
COMING SOON: Winger's forthcoming album will be entitled Better Day's Comin' – Look out for a release on Frontiers in the Spring 2014!
H.E.A.T. are releasing their new album Tearing Down The Walls in March 2014, with producer Tobias Lindell once again working his magic with the band. The lead single due soon is titled A Shot At Redemption.
THE RETURN OF SKINTRADE!:
Swedish Hard Rock band Skintrade are back with their brand new studio album Refueled which will be released on February 28 via AOR Heaven.
During the 1990's Skintrade enjoyed huge sucess in Sweden and abroad, particularly in Scandinavia, Holland, Germany and Belgium. During this period the band toured extensively in Europe and played some of Europe's biggest festivals such as Dynamo Open Air (Holland) and MTV's Rock Am Ring (Germany) to name a few. Skintrade also toured around Europe supporting bands as Motorhead, Danish rockers DAD and the Irish band Therapy?
The debut album "Skintrade" released in 1993, recieved an overwhelmingly positive response by the press and the public. The singles "Sick As A Dog" and "One by One" got frequent airplay, and the videos aired on heavy rotation on MTV's Headbangers Ball. The band also received the Zeppelin-Award for best Rock act and a nomination for best video at the Swedish Grammy awards. The follow-up "Roachpowder", produced by Thomas Skogsberg (Entombed, Hellacopters etc), was released in 1995. This collaboration allowed the band to explore a darker, heavier side. Again, the videos for the songs "Snap goes your mind" as well as "Flies", were repeatedly aired on MTV.
Now, the Swedish hard rockers Skintrade are back with their third studio album "Refueled" set to be released on February 28th, 2014. The first single "Monster" will be released in January in advance. This is the band's first full-length studio album since "Roach Powder" released in 1995 and the best of album "Past and Present" in 2012 which included three new songs. "We have been working very hard writing songs and recording for over a year and half. We're really proud of the new album and we definitely feel that this is our best effort so far. We can't wait to get out on the road again and meet our old friends and to make new ones", says lead singer Matti Alfonzetti.
Swedish Producer/Engineer Oscar Ammer (Social Pretender, The Moving, Human Desolation) was chosen to co-produce and mix the album. The album was recorded in Skintrade's studio and mixed in Oscar Ammer's studio Echobox Audio Production. "Refueled" packs 12 stunningly powerful songs that will place Skintrade in an undisputed position as a Hard Rock/Metal band to be reckoned with.
Line-up: Matti Alfonzetti - vocals, guitars; Stefan Bergström - guitars, backing vocal; Hĺkan Calmroth – bass, Hĺkan Mĺsen Persson - drums, backing vocal.
Tracklist: 1. Monster, 2. Liar, 3. Pay In Blood, 4. Hardcore MF Heartattack, 5. Close My Eyes, 6. Getting Away With Murder, 7. Mountain, 8. Been To The Bottom, 9. Worse Than Wasted, 10. Dying In Your Arms, 11. Wild One, 12. Look Me In The Eye.
PERSUADER: NEW TRACK STREAMING ONLINE:
The track "Son of Sodom", taken from the up-coming PERSUADER album "The Fiction Maze" is now available for streaming at YouTube. Check it out here: youtu.be/AOM3Iy1iSCI.
"The Fiction Maze" will be released in Europe on January 17th and in North America on January 21st through Inner Wound Recordings. Avalon/Marquee released the album in Japan on December 25th.
ťThe Fiction Mazeť is another step forward for Persuader as they constantly continue to develop their sound, song-writing skills and performance. Persuader describes the sound on the album:
"A lot of hard work was put into creating the perfect mix of everything we've done so far. We've expanded on the Persuader sound while keeping true to the core that is the band; heavy riffing, strong melodies, pounding rhythms and soaring vocals."
The mixing and mastering was handled by Ronnie Bjornstrom [Aeon, Apostasy, Bone Gnawer] and the production fits the album really well, giving lots of space to the more aggressive side of the Persuader sound, but without losing the melodic parts in the process.
The Fiction Mazeť is the proof that Persuader is still one of the most exciting Swedish bands, and also one of the best power metal bands there is. The performance, song-writing and production is outstanding and with vocalist Jens Carlsson [who made his best vocal contribution so far on this album] they truly stand out in the scene and The Fiction Mazeť will for sure be a big hit and a classic in the scene.
Check out an album teaser at YouTube here: youtu.be/lvJAbt3Zbsw.
"The Fiction Maze" can be pre-ordered at the Inner Wound Store [CD, vinyl, t-shirt bundles available] at: innerwound.bigcartel.com.
A limited 12" double gatefold edition of "The Fiction Maze" will be released on February 7th.
Persuader online: www.facebook.com/pages/Persuader/50270729045.
STRIKEFORCE EP ON THE MENU:
Midwest hard rock act Strikeforce has set up camp at Sawwood Studios in St. Louis, Mo with producer Jason McEntire (Uriah Heep, Ken Hensley, The Urge, Divine Chaos and Others) to begin recording the new StrikeForce EP. Visit StrikeForce at: www.sweetsounds.us.
ANDROMEDA: RE-ISSUES FOR "II = I" AND "CHIMERA" ANNOUNCED: Inner Wound Recordings will re-release the classic Andromeda albums "II = I" and "Chimera". The release dates are set to January 21st for North America and January 24th for Europe. Both albums are remastered and contain liner notes written by Andromeda guitar player Johan Reinholdz.
"II = I" track listing: 01. Encyclopedia 02. Mirages 03. Reaching Deep Within 04. Two Is One 05. Morphing Into Nothing 06. Castaway 07. Parasite 08. One In My Head 09. This Fragile Surface.
"Chimera" track listing: 01. Periscope 02. In the End 03. The Hidden Riddle 04. Going Under 05. The Cage of Me 06. No Guidelines 07. Inner Circle 08. Iskenderun 09. Blink of an Eye.
For more information on Andromeda: www.andromedaonline.com / www.facebook.com/andromedaband.
CD SHOWCASE:
The first Showcases for 2014 are online - two pending releases for Escape Music - Lover Under Cover (January 24) and new Overland (February 21). Check both out now.
Wednesday, January 08, 2014
MELODICROCKFEST 4 - TICKETS ON SALE UPDATE:
Friday October 3 – Sunday October 5, 2014 - MelodicRockFest 4 (www.melodicrockfest.com) is taking place at Chicago's own H.O.M.E. Bar (www.homebarchicago.com).
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MRF4 will be North American fans' first ever chance to see some of the most in demand European rock bands, including AOR stars Work Of Art; hard rock heroes The Poodles and Europe's most popular melodic rock band – H.E.A.T! plus first time USA appearances by House Of Shakira, Degreed, Grand Design and Faith Circus. MRF4 will also be the live debut for the new supergroup L.R.S - Tommy La Verdi, Josh Ramos, Mike Shotton - playing the songs you have been dying to hear (The Storm, 21 Guns, Von Groove) and material from their debut album out soon.
PS. The first single from the new H.E.A.T. album is "A Shot At Redemption". Out in February!
Tickets are on sale NEXT WEEK! - January 15 at 5pm Chicago USA time.
Tickets will be for purchase at www.MelodicRockFest.com for all VIP and GA tickets via PayPal, with GA and Weekend Pass tickets also available from H.O.M.E. Bar's secure TicketWeb outlet.
One new VIP Level this year is the Platinum VIP, for which there are only 10 passes available. There are a few exclusive bonuses for these lucky few pass holders. They will be offered the option to introduce a band of their choosing; get food and merch credit; killer grab bag of CDs and extras; but most of all - an invite to an exclusive Invitation Only MR.com/Business Events Canada Panel Discussion and VIP Reception to be held close by on the Friday afternoon. MR.com/Business Events Canada are bringing some corporate guests to an experience you cannot buy! Gathered will be 5 artists to discuss their careers and collaborative work, guided by myself and a professional event moderator, over a 2 hour period, with a Q&A from the audience included. Following the discussion there will be a fully catered 2 hour reception (food and drinks), where you'll be free to mingle with the other guests and the artists for a more informal chat. Lined up to take part in the panel event so far is Mitch Malloy, Paul Laine and Jimi Jamison. 2 more will be added soon! Only ten MRF4 Platinum VIP guests will be allowed into this otherwise by invitation only special event.
EARMUSIC & EAGLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT TO RELEASE DEEP PURPLE LIMITED EDITION NOW WHAT?! GOLD EDITION 2CD:
New York, NY (January 7, 2014) –NOW What?!, the 19th studio album from Deep Purple, reached Gold Status in Germany, Russia, Czech Republic and Poland, not to mention the fact the band has made a very much deserved return to the British Top-20 for the first time in 20 years. To celebrate the success of the album and the support of one of the greatest fan bases known in rock history, NOW What?! will be released on January 21, 2014 as a Golden Deluxe Edition. [MSRP $20.98 2CD, $59.98 Boxed set] The boxed set will be available exclusively via Amazon.
NOW What?! Gold Edition 2CD, packaged in a luxurious gold cover, will also include two bonus songs on disc 1 (a stunning cover of Jerry Lee Lewis' "It'll Be Me," and the rare B-side "First Sign Of Madness," previously only available digitally and on the CD single "Vincent Price"), and an extra live disc. The bonus disc consists of over 70 minutes of unreleased live music recorded during the summer shows ("The NOW What?! Live Tapes").
The live recordings show a band that still love to improvise like only few others can, changing the classic songs all the time and challenging themselves. Still, that magic sound is there, as if time could do nothing against it. In an era when live albums are too often not much more than a studio exercise, one cannot help admiring the musicianship and the groove coming out of the speakers, especially considering that the record shows exactly what came out of the amplifiers on those nights. Great care has been paid to present this extra disc in a stunning hi-fi quality, still preserving its authenticity.
The studio album and this exceptional live album are sold together with the inclusion of a brand new booklet to support the second disc, with notes by Ian Gillan.
The NOW What ?! Boxed Set includes The NOW What?! Live Tapes, a DVD with a 20-minute interview, NOW What?! The Singles ("All The Time In The World," "Vincent Price," "Above And Beyond,"), exclusive t-shirt (large), exclusive poster, and collectible sticker. armusicofficial
Track Listing - CD1 - 1. A Simple Song 2 . Weirdistan 3. Out Of Hand 4 . Hell To Pay 5 . BodyLine 6 . Above and Beyond 7. Blood From A Stone 8 . Uncommon Man 9. Aprčs Vous 10. All The Time in The World 11. Vincent Price Bonus Tracks 12. It'll Be Me 13. First Sign Of Madness
CD2 - The Now What?! Live Tapes - 1. Strange Kind Of Woman (Live in Rome) 2. Hard Loving Man (Live in Aalborg) 3. Vincent Price (Live in Aalborg) 4. Contact Lost (Live in Aalborg) 5. All The Time in The World (Live in Milan) 6. No One Came (Live in Gaevle) 7. BodyLine (Live in Rome) 8. Perfect Strangers (Live in Gaevle) 9. Above And Beyond (Live in Milan) 10. Lazy (Live in Gaevle) 11. Black Night (Live in Rome) 12. Smoke On The Water (Live in Rome).
VAN HALEN 1984 BREAKS OUT, ONLY TO ALMOST BREAK BAND UP:
InTheStudio Reveals Snapshot Of Band Dynamic 30 Years Ago / Dallas, TX - January 7, 2013. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands celebrates the 30th anniversary of Van Halen 1984 with a captivating account of life in the band from Eddie Van Halen, drumming brother Alex, and former VH bassist Michael Anthony.
Van Halen's 1984 album was their biggest selling album with over 12 million copies sold in the U.S. alone, spawning Van Halen's first and only # 1 pop single "Jump", Top 15 hits "Panama" and "I'll Wait", plus the MTV classic "Hot for Teacher", and launching the band on its most ambitious tour, after being the highest paid band ever for their 1983 US Festival performance. Creatively the album was a major leap forward, with the band taking charge of all the music and dictating terms of the recording. Eddie Van Halen candidly points out to InTheStudio host Redbeard his M.O. when it came to picking music for 1984. "Diver Down our 5th record had half cover tunes, and I had it, personally, up to here. That's why I built the (5150 home) studio. I'd rather bomb with my own music than make it doing someone else's music."
Yet, eighteen months later after breaking all album sales and attendance records, popular Van Halen front man David Lee Roth would bolt without warning, leaving Eddie, Alex, and Michael reeling and the band's future in doubt. While the facts in these interviews remain true and accurate, the opinions are a snapshot of just one of the many chapters in this three decade saga, at a time before David Lee Roth was invited back into the band and before Michael Anthony was dismissed. Van Halen '1984' / InTheStudio interview program is available now to stream at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/van-halen-1984-30th-anniversary-eddie-alex-van-halenmichael-anthony/
CATACOMBS OF THE BLACK LABEL SOCIETY: Zakk Wylde has today announced that a brand new Black Label Society studio album Catacombs of the Black Vatican will be released in Europe on April 7th 2014 via Mascot Label Group.
Mascot Label Group are honoured to welcome the band to the label, having recently signed BLS exclusively for European territory. The band will join, amongst others, Joe Bonamassa, Volbeat, Gov't Mule, Beth Hart, Vandenberg's MoonKings, Black Country Communion and Kenny Wayne Shepherd on the Rotterdam-based record company's roster. "Catacombs of the Black Vatican" is Black Label Society's first new studio album since 2009's "The Order of the Black", which debuted at #4 on the Billboard Top 200 chart.
Since their late nineties inception, Black Label Society, formed by guitar legend Zakk Wylde, has been at the forefront of their genre. Their taste for hard riffs and blazing solos has resulted in a slew of hugely successful albums and a reputation as one of the most powerful live bands of their generation.
Zakk Wylde, who has been called one of the true guitar heroes in modern history, served as Ozzy Osbourne's guitarist for over 20 years, in addition to his work with BLS. This collaboration led to a string of multi-platinum albums, including Osbourne's biggest selling "No More Tears," for which Wylde wrote all the music.
Bestowed with such accolades as "Metal Guru" from the recently held Classic Rock awards in the UK, "Golden God" by Metal Hammer and the "Best Guitarist" Award from Revolver Magazine, Wylde has proven time and time again that his songwriting, guitar prowess, and on-stage persona, along with his larger-than-life personality, have made him a force to be reckoned with.
WebLinks: blacklabelsociety.com / zakkwylde.com.
MISTHERIA AND ALBERTO RIGONI ANNOUNCE "VIVALDI ALL-STARS METAL PROJECT":
Keyboardist Mistheria (solo artist, Bruce Dickinson, Rob Rock, Roy Z, etc.) and bassist Alberto Rigoni (solo artist, TwinSpirits) are proud to announce that a new project is coming to light: Vivaldi Metal Project, an All-Metal-Stars amazing project that will blow you away!
The classic legendary masterpiece "The Four Seasons" by Antonio Vivaldi will be rearranged in a Metal version and will be performed by top class musicians from all the world. Just to name a few... Mark Boals (Yngwie Malmsteen, Ring of Fire), John Macaluso (Ark, TNT, James LaBrie), Mike Lepond (Symphony X). More to be announced soon! Recordings will happen in 2014 and more news will be revealed soon! Info and updates on www.vivaldimetalproject.com.
Concept, arrangements, production by Mistheria (www.mistheria.com). Co-produced by Alberto Rigoni (www.albertorigoni.net). Artwork by Henry Ringbert. Communications representative Guglielmo Malusardi.
WebLinks: www.facebook.com/VivaldiMetalProject / www.twitter.com/VivaldiMetal.
Tuesday, January 07, 2014
PRE-ORDER AIRLESS - BEST OF & RARITIES 1999-2014:
Spanish progressive melodic rockers Airless have signed to MelodicRock Records for the physical CD release of their upcoming anniversary release Best Of + Rarities 1999 - 2014 - a 2CD set put together to celebrate the band's 15th Anniversary. MRR will release Best Of + Rarities 1999 - 2014 2CD on January 27. The CD is a limited to 500 units only and is already at the plant for manufacturing.
You can pre-order Best Of + Rarities 1999 - 2014 exclusively here today. And as of right now, this is the ONLY place you can order the set and be assured a copy. The price is US$15.00 + $5 Airmail shipping worldwide. Order via PayPal link below:
Airless Statement: "We are very proud and excited about the idea of being part of the Melodic Rock Records family. After almost 15 years, we are sure that this will be a great opportunity to take the band to another level. Thanks Andrew for your confidence in our music."
Airless was formed in January 2002 and soon signed with Vinny Records Company. The self-titled debut album was released in June 2002, produced by Carlos Creator, worldwide distributed and specially released for Japan by Mellow Music. "The Truth", one of the songs of this first Airless album, was included in "Singing To The World", a 2CD special release by Frontiers Records in memory of World Trade Center's tragedy victims. That album included also songs from Jason Becker, Tesla, Bonnie Tyler, Doro, Paul Gilbert, Paul Nelson, Kane Roberts, Jimmy Hendrix, etc, and was released worldwide. Airless second album, titled "2nd Round", was also produced by Carlos Creator and released by the Finnish Company Lion Music, with the Japanese edition again by Mellow Music. Airless toured and shared stage with bands like Tyketto, Dare or Riot.
"Fight" is the title of their 3rd album that was released in December 2008, again by Lion Music. During the promotion of "Fight", Airless played on several Hard Rock-AOR Fests, and shared stage with bands like Vega, Serpentine, Houston and Reckless Love. February 2013 sees the band return with their most accomplished album to date, "Changes". Released by Lion Music once again, cover artwork by Felipe Machado, and the special collaboration of Danny Vaughn (Tyketto). As a part of "Changes" promotion, Airless toured with Jeff Scott Soto opening shows on his Spanish Tour.
Airless: Ińaki Lazcano (vocals), Miguel Manjon (bass), Pako Martinez (drums), Robert Rodrigo (guitar).
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MRR CD SALE:
I have a limited sale offer for some select MRR/MRCD titles that have had their jewel cases damaged along the way in transit. So the below prices are for the full CDs as usual, just shipped without the jewel cases. CD and cover slicks are not damaged in any way. Prices include airmail shipping worldwide!
FAITHSEDGE RETURN FOR 2014: Faithsedge will return in in 2014 with a more aggressive approach, while still keeping a melodic/progressive edge to their music. This year the band features Giancarlo Floridia (Vocals/Guitar), Alex Derosso (Lead guitar), Tony "AJ" Morra (Drums) and will once again be produced by Fabrizio Grossi (also handling bass duties). In addition, two melodic rock keyboard greats appear on 3 tracks - Eric Ragno and Alessandro DelVecchio. The album is just being finished by Peter Doell (David Lee Roth/Richard Marx) at "Universal Mastering" in Universal City California. More details with release dates and label info soon. Pictured is singer Giancarlo Florida at Universal Mastering with Peter Doell.
READ ALL ABOUT IT: TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest podcast (episode #166), featuring guitarist Maxxxwell Carlisle. Maxxxwell took time out of his busy schedule to discuss the his latest EP, Full Metal Thunder. Maxxxwell also discusses how you can be a professional body builder and still shred. Interview lasts approx. 30 min. When did you get your first concert tee and where did it go? Did you hoard it away in a closet, or has it disappeared off the face of the earth? If you're lucky you can still fit in it but if you're like Genghis and Ragman, that ain't happenin'. Join Genghis and Ragman as they discuss their first concert t-shirt experience as well as how they look at tees today. Next, the boys bring in new axeslinger Maxxxwell Carlisle who discusses his latest EP, Full Metal Thunder, as well as his role in the reunited Hellion.
Piercing Metal have their annual feature of "New Year's Music Resolutions" has begun running on the site's official blog. There are a few more chapters to present to the readers but those that are online now can be enjoyed via this link: www.piercingmetal.com/wordpress/?tag=2014-new-years-music-resolutions.
A new in-depth, career-spanning interview with Andrew Ross, vocalist and guitarist with Trans-Siberian Orchestra and melodic metal band DareDevil Squadron is online now. Among the topics discussed was the recently-released EP by Chameleon, the band that he fronts with fellow TSO vocalist Chloe Lowery, as well as news of his forthcoming solo EP and DareDevil Squadron's forthcoming 2nd album . And finally, also discussed is Andrew's role with TSO, including him singing Savatage covers for them. Direct link to the interview: musicandartinterviews.blogspot.com/2013/12/andrew-ross.html.
DECIBEL GEEK PODCAST EPISODE 118 - PAUL TAYLOR (WINGER, ALICE COOPER): The Decibel Geek podcast has released episode 118 - Conversation with Paul Taylor (Winger, Alice Cooper, Aldo Nova, etc.) Paul Taylor was brought up in the San Francisco bay area to parents that he describes as "70's hippies." Paul's professional debut in music would take a few years but, as you'll hear in this discussion, his face appeared on a major label album cover by a well-known Vietnam-era band. After honing his skills in the Bay area, Taylor catches his first big break as touring keyboardist for Aldo Nova as well as a cameo in the 'Fantasy' video from 1981. In this discussion, Paul tells Aaron and Chris about Nova's difficult demeanor on the road as well as the surprising supplier of the hokey visual effects in the 'Fantasy' video.
After a stint with Nick Gilder in the early 80's, Paul winds up in the Alice Cooper band for The Nightmare Returns tour in 1986. He shares the circumstances that led to his hiring in the Cooper act as well as memories of forming a friendship with bassist Kip Winger that would lead to big things down the road. Also in this discussion, Taylor reminisces on the Raise Your Fist and Yell era of Alice Cooper including memories of protesters outside the venues and the continued misunderstanding of Alice the person in comparison to Alice the performer.
After the European tour with Alice Cooper, Taylor leaves the band to join his former band mate Winger in a new, original project that had just achieved label backing. In this conversation, Paul shares his thoughts on the rise of Winger including the criticism they faced due to the band's image overshadowing the undeniable talent in the band. Winger toured the world on the strong sales of their self-titled debut as well as the successful followup 'In the Heart of the Young.' In this discussion, Taylor remembers the tours the band undertook including stints with Scorpions as well as KISS and the bond formed with late drummer Eric Carr.
He also gives his thoughts on Mike Judge's 'Beavis & Butthead' putting a bullseye on the band through MTV and his opinions on Judge himself. This part of the conversation also dovetails into a discussion of the rise of grunge causing the fall of bands of Winger's ilk as well as the work he's done with Winger in more recent years and some reunion dates going on right now.
After his departure from Winger, Taylor teamed up with former Journey vocalist Steve Perry for 1994's 'For the Love of Strange Medicine.' In this conversation, Paul tells Aaron and Chris how a simple songwriting session turned into an entire album collaboration, Perry's vision for a record, and his thoughts on the then-new digital mix the album received and what he'd do differently with it today.
Listen Here: dbgeekshow.blogspot.com/2014/01/episode-118-paul-taylor.html.
Monday, January 06, 2014
MUSIC HELPS HENRY LEE SUMMER KEEP DRUG DEMONS AT BAY:
The following article was written by journalist David Lindquist last week for the Indy Star and is reprinted with personal thanks to David. I thought it was a great update on the wonderful Henry Lee Summer.
Henry Lee Summer is singing onstage, but the loudest person in this strip-mall bar is arguing about a card game. Nearly everyone here on a recent chilled night is focused on cards, not actively listening to Summer or even facing the stage. Yet the 1980s Hoosier hit maker plays Drifty's on the Far Southside every Wednesday, skillfully executing covers of songs popularized by the Animals, Bill Withers and the Commodores. When no applause arrives at the end of songs, Summer stands up from his electric piano and takes an exaggerated bow. Humor makes the gig bearable, and Summer figures that playing music is better than the alternative. "I have to keep myself busy," he tells The Indianapolis Star after the show. "That's the main thing. The enemy that I have is idle time."
Summer once viewed his music as a lifeline for others instead of himself. When opening shows for the Doobie Brothers, Chicago, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Eddie Money, Summer introduced himself to crowds coast-to-coast with this statement: "I sing the blues, and I'm from Brazil, Ind. I'm gonna make everybody feel good tonight."
The good times rolled in 1988, when Summer's "I Wish I Had a Girl" reached No. 20 on Billboard magazine's Hot 100 singles chart. He can't be classified as a one-hit wonder, because "Hey Baby" climbed to No. 18 in 1989. Summer sang on Arsenio Hall's late-night talk show, and he shared the 1990 Farm Aid stage with Guns 'N Roses and Lou Reed at the RCA Dome. "We did a lot of shows together," said Jim Ryser, a Columbus, Ind., native who recorded a self-titled album for major-label Arista Records in 1990. "Just being part of the night with Henry was always an exciting time. Any time we played anywhere, the audience wouldn't have room to breathe – let alone dance."
In the context of John Mellencamp's massive mainstream success during the Reagan decade, Summer represented the next Indiana rock 'n' roll sensation – but one relegated to working in the shadows. He was Southside Johnny to Mellencamp's Springsteen. Megadeth to Mellencamp's Metallica. The Alarm to Mellencamp's U2.
Although the hits stopped coming for Summer, he maintained a respectable career as a regional act through the 1990s and beyond. In 2004, he performed for thousands of attendees at Rib America Festival in Military Park. The next time Summer made noise on the radio, it was on a police scanner. On Sept. 15, 2006, he was arrested for driving drunk through a Far-Eastside mobile home court. The episode featured Summer's 2006 Ford Explorer bouncing off cars, trucks and at least one mobile home. On May 5, 2009, he was arrested for possessing methamphetamine. Police used a Taser electroshock gun to subdue Summer in the former incident and pepper spray in the latter. Summer's midlife decline began with a prescription of cough medicine in the late 1990s. At the time, he lived in the Meridian Hills neighborhood and was a neighbor of Colts quarterback Peyton Manning. Citing hydrocodone, an opioid present in the cough medicine, Summer said he shifted highs and moved on to "speedball" combinations of meth and heroin. He performs in small-time rooms all over town to keep a drug relapse at bay. "Music keeps that demon off my shoulder," said Summer, who has three rounds of rehab on his resume. He says he's been clean and sober for more than two years.
Had he landed a few more songs on the charts, Summer's tumble from the top would make a spectacular episode of "Behind the Music." His redemption song has yet to be heard, but Summer may strike the first notes on Friday at 8 Seconds Saloon. The 1,500-capacity venue is larger than ones Summer has played lately, and he's headlining a benefit for lobbying group Tavern League of Indiana. In contrast to the low-key duo show at Drifty's with vocalist-guitarist Zanna DiBartoli, Summer will play his own songs at 8 Seconds and be accompanied by his rock band: guitarist Wade Terry, bass player Gary Checkeye, drummer Tim Berry and DiBartoli. Summer said he offers a stylistic authenticity that's rare today. "When it comes to rock 'n' roll, I know I can do that," Summer said. "Rock 'n' roll is about attitude and intensity, and I can always get that going. I'm obviously no top-flight musician, but I can bang on the chord and be passionate about it." Ryser recalls Summer as being somewhat aloof offstage in the early 1990s, as well as being staunchly opposed to excessive partying (a trait shared with Mellencamp, Ryser said.) "Henry is only Henry when he's playing," Ryser said. "He truly is that line in that Fleetwood Mac song: 'Players only love you when they're playing.' He's alive. He makes his whole soul available." As related to the music, Summer's optimism and energy haven't waned. He refers to his songs as "three chords and a cloud of dust." He's written a new tune titled "Plan B" – as in, he's never had one if rock 'n' roll didn't work out. "I'm not looking to do it again. To do it once is a miracle," Summer said of his heyday. "When it's all said and done, I want to do enough good music-wise that I erase the stigma that I put on myself with the drug stuff." He was prescribed the fateful cough medicine at age 43. "I'd never done a drug in my life," Summer said. On the downward spiral, his marriage fell apart.
"There's no excuse. I don't have any excuse for it," Summer said. "I made a mistake, and I paid a heavy price for it. I've been clean now for over two years. It took a long time for it to take hold. I went to a lot of rehabs. It was hard for me to get off the stuff. I was about ready to die. That's what usually has to happen. You have to get so bad that you're about ready to die. 'Oh, shoot. I don't want to die.' That's when I cleaned up my act." Ryser is more than a longtime musical colleague of Summer's. He's a recovering addict of prescription medicine and alcohol who now specializes in the treatment of addiction. "It's never a surprise to me when somebody says, 'Man, I started off a prescription medication and now I'm taking cocaine, doing meth and all kinds of things,'" Ryser said. Summer and Ryser formed a new bond in recent years. The musicians have played benefit shows together, including a Sept. 11 "America Remembers" event at the Rathskeller in 2007. Ryser, program manager for pain services at IU Health Methodist Hospital, compares trading drugs – such as moving from hydrocodone for heroin – to "trading seats on the Titanic. If you have an addiction, you're not addicted to one drug. You're addicted to "more,'" said Ryser. "If you're an addict, you always have a lack of a volume control on your intensity – with whatever it is that you do."
Summer's weathered face, topped by an "I Love New York" winter beanie at Drifty's, shows evidence of tough times. The 58-year-old rents a Westside apartment for $100 a week, and he records music in a modest basement studio ("There's no place to sit or eat," he said). He vows that an upcoming album will feature the best lyrics of his career. "There's so much I went through and can write about," he said. "I think a lot of people will understand what I'm saying." Royalty payments have kept Summer afloat financially. Among eight films that include his songs, 1993's "Sniper" (starring Tom Berenger) boasts two tracks: "Medicine Man" and "Turn It Up." Summer expects to receive a check stemming from "Sunday Night Football's" use of "I Wish I Had a Girl" during the Oct. 20 telecast of the Colts' victory over the Broncos.
He said he doesn't watch TV, and a recently established Twitter profile, @HenryLeeSummer, is the work of an impostor who interacts with fans and promotes Summer's videos available for viewing on YouTube. "I don't own a computer," Summer said. "I don't know what Twitter is." He reads books, and he spends time with his 16-year-old daughter. Mostly, Summer relies on rock 'n' roll to help him steer clear of drugs. Unsurprisingly, performing in nightclubs can be a test of his discipline.
"People still come up and offer me drugs in bars, but I just tell them, 'No, thanks,'" Summer said. "People throw it in your yard, put it in your mailbox. They don't want anybody to get clean, because that makes them feel bad." Although Summer compares the past seven years to being a caged animal on display, he doesn't point fingers at others. "You did it yourself. You can't get mad at anybody but yourself," he said. "It's very humiliating, to go to jail. That's not what I am. I'm not that type of person." Reflecting on the 1980s, Summer said his favorite moments were being called onstage to perform encores with headlining acts. "It was like another world," Summer said. "I had more money than I basically knew what to do with. Lived in a big house. I was on top of the world. Now, I'm down at the bottom. The good news is that I've got no place to go but up."
MELODIC BRIEFS: Steve Augeri has released yet another single to iTunes, this one titles Home Again. Purchase via: itunes.apple.com/us/album/home-again-single/id791061956 - available today on the usual digital download sites. Soon to be released is one more track (a full melodic rocker) that was co-penned with Fredrik Bergh called Tin Soldier.
Here's some footage of guitarist Joel Hoekstra playing with Trans Siberian Orchestra at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin for New Years 2014. An estimated crowd of 1 million people and televised for millions more: www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4Fuh0INhQ4.
Helix is presently working on a new CD called Bastard Of The Blues. The band will also be heading to Spain in May for 3 dates: Barcelona, Madrid, & Pamplona.
LIKE AN ARMY SINGLE "TASTE OF IT" AVAILABLE ON ITUNES NOW:
Rockers Like An Army debut single Taste Of It is available on iTunes and other digital outlets Tuesday December 31st.
Fronted by lead singer Frankie Muriel (King of the Hill) accompanied by drummer Paul Chickey, bassist Cubby Smith and guitarist John "JP" Pennington. Their forthcoming single "Taste Of It" features guitarist Richard Fortus (Guns n Roses, Rhianna, Thin Lizzy) and was mixed by James Michael (Sixx AM, Motley Crue, Papa Roach) The video for "Taste of It" directed by Danny Drysdale (The Killers) is set for sale via iTunes in 2014. "Thank God!! Finally a great ROCK anthem we can get behind!" -Tommy Mattern PD KPNT St Louis
WebLinks: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HN-SRaMWEgc / www.likeanarmy.com/video.
CARSTEN SCHULZ PLANS BUSY 2014:
Coming in 2014 from Carsten Schulz is the following projects the vocalist recently shared with me:
Athlantis: I sang and co-wrote the track "Ashamed Of Being Born" on "Chapter IV", the new album by this great Italian Metal act. Will be out on Rock It Up / Icewarrior Records in spring.
Boguslaw Balcerak's Crylord: I once again had the pleasure to sing for Polish shred god Boguslaw Balcerak. His second album, entitled "Gates Of Valhalla" will also feature the likes of Goran Edman, Mark Boals and Rik Altzi.
Rik Priem's Prime: The first solo output of Frozen Rain guitarist Rik Priem is finished and ready. The self-titled album, mixed and mastered by Rolf Munkes (Empire), also features my dear brother Ramy Ali (Iron Mask, Freedom Call, Lavalle) on drums. Check out what's to come over here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAbUzPVA_zc.
last but not least, 2014 will see the massive debut of the Dead End Heroes, featuring Paul Logue (Eden's Curse, Lavalle) on bass, Holger Seeger (Midnite Club, Iain Ashley Hersey) on Keyboards, Rolf Munkes (Empire, Tony Martin) on guitar, the man, that got us all together, Daniel Voegeli on drums, ...and my good self! Classic early 80s Hard Rock, which will simply blow you away!!!
JOE BONAMASSA GIVES INTHESTUDIO HIS BEST SO FAR:
(Dallas, TX) - InTheStudio.NET, the web home for North American syndicated rock radio show InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands catches up on the dizzying career of American guitarist/singer/songwriter Joe Bonamassa.
On a Guinness Book record-setting pace since his 2000 debut New Day Yesterday at the tender age of only twenty, Joe Bonamassa has recorded and released no less than ten solo studio albums, two collaborations with singer Beth Hart, plus the three studio albums with Black Country Communion.
Bonamassa has toured tirelessly in North America and Europe, resulting in six live albums and an equal number of DVDs, including 2013's An Acoustic Evening at the Vienna Opera House and the massive Tour de Force: Live in London four-DVD set. These live filmed concerts, in particular 2009's Live from Royal Albert Hall, placed Joe B on stage with Eric Clapton and repeatedly on PBS television stations and into the mainstream. Regarding his many blues and rock heroes, Joe Bonamassa tells InTheStudio host Redbeard: "I started playing guitar when I was four…Then I heard the blues through Eric Clapton and ZZ Top, then a lot of the English guys such as Free with Paul Rodgers and Led Zeppelin doing blues. And that sparked my interest in (Americans) Robert Johnson, Guitar Slim, Muddy Waters, Freddie King was another one, too. By the age of nine I was the little white kid who would show up at all of these blues festivals with a guitar!"
Joe Bonamassa shares details InTheStudio on his life and heady accomplishments while sharing songs such as "Miss You Hate You", "You Better Stop" and "Further on Up the Road" live with Eric Clapton, Chris Whitley's "Ball Peen Hammer", "Sloe Gin", "Takin' the Hit", and "Travelin' South".
Stream the Joe Bonamassa 'Best so far' program this month as part of InTheStudio's Medium Rare "online-only" rockumentary series. Direct Program Links: www.inthestudio.net/online-only-interviews/joe-bonamassa-best
Dallas, TX - January 2, 2013. North American syndicated Rock radio show and website InTheStudio: The Stories Behind History's Greatest Rock Bands rings in the New Year with a career-spanning look at the bad boys of rock Motley Crue.
The '80s would not have been, well, the '80s without the outlandish antics and brazen musical style of LA rockers Motley Crue. By the Spring of 1983 the Crue were living in sharp contrast to what was mainstream Reagan America. Songs like "Shout at the Devil" and "Looks that Kill" had nothing in common with the charts then, but 1985's Theatre of Pain album would transform Motley Crue into rock and roll chart toppers driven by the success of their Brownsville Station cover "Smokin' In The Boys' Room" and the monster power ballad, "Home Sweet Home". In an interview with InTheStudio host Redbeard, Nikki Sixx remembers how the latter non-traditional Crue song would set the bar for hard rock bands to follow. "Bands didn't have a power ballad and MTV as a vehicle to have a hit. That just wasn't the way it was. After "Home Sweet Home" every band had the one ballad that came as their second or third single... I think the reason we did it was because it was so anti-Motley Crue and it was funny, because it threw us into the mainstream. Trust me, none of us had the foresight to see that."
Motley Crue has gone on to sell tens of millions of albums over their 30+ year career. InTheStudio shares, in this week's show, the musical highlights and some of the unbelievable lowlights behind one of rock's most notorious hard rock bands.
Motley Crue 'Best of' / InTheStudio interview program is available now to STREAM at: www.inthestudio.net/redbeards-blog/motley-crue-greatest-hits-nikki-sixx-vince-neil
ELECTRIC WORLD – A CASUAL GUIDE TO THE MUSIC OF JOURNEY'S NEAL SCHON: "He's the most underrated guitarist to ever strap on a [guitar]. His touch could be the subtle nuisance of everything he does when he plays." - Herbie Herbert, former Journey manager
Neal Schon is undoubtedly one of rock music's most versatile yet infuriatingly underrated guitarists. His work in the legendary multi-million selling AOR band Journey is universally known but what about his excellent solo albums and his other projects such as Bad English, HSAS, Hardline and Soul SirkUs, and not forgetting his many collaborations with the likes of Sammy Hagar, Paul Rodgers and Jan Hammer? From the author of the acclaimed Don't Stop Believin' – The Untold Story Of Journey, Electric World – A Casual Guide To The Music Of Journey's Neal Schon is the first book to exclusively explore the music of the longest running member of one of the most successful American AOR bands of all time Electric World includes a foreword by Robert Fleischman, the original frontman of Journey, and exclusive interviews with such melodic rock heroes as Marco Mendoza, Jeff Scott Soto, Danny Vaughn, Glen Burtnik, Jimi Jamison and Ricky Phillips as well as a number of highly revered producers who have worked with Neal Schon such as Richie Zito and Mike Fraser. Also included are previously unpublished photos. Electric World is essential reading for Journey fans and AOR enthusiasts. Electric World – A Casual Guide To The Music Of Journey's Neal Schon is a 6x9 344 page paperback and eBook. ISBN: 978-1494710644.
Buy from: Amazon UK Paperback: www.amazon.co.uk/Electric-World-Casual-Guide-Journeys/dp/1494710641/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1388676321&sr=1-1&keywords=9781494710644
eBook: www.amazon.co.uk/Electric-World-Casual-Guide-Journeys-ebook/dp/B00HN3TGRU/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1388676321&sr=1-2&keywords=9781494710644
SIGNUM REGIS: "THE TEN PLAGUES" POSTED ONLINE:
The melodic metal band Signum Regis have uploaded the track "The Ten Plagues" to YouTube. The track comes off their album "Exodus" and feat Matt Smith [Theocracy] on vocals. "Exodus" was released on November 15th in Europe and December 3rd in North America through Ulterium Records. Check out the track at YouTube here: youtu.be/r8oYI90zxbc.
"Exodus" feat. guest vocals by Lance King [ex. Pyramaze, Balance of Power], Michael Vescera [Obsession, Animetal USA], Matt Smith [Theocracy], Daosa Munhoz [Vandroya, Soulspell], Eli Prinsen [Sacred Warrior, The Sacrificed], Samuel Nyman [Manimal], Thomas L. Winkler [Gloryhammer, Emerald], Goran Edman [ex. Yngwie Malmsteen, John Norum] and Mayo Petranin [Castaway]. The album was mastered by Tommy Hansen [Helloween, Jorn, Circus Maximus] and the artwork was created by Felipe Machado Franco [Blind Guardian, Rhapsody of Fire].
"Exodus" is a historical concept album about the Israelites who were enslaved in ancient Egypt.
Check out an album teaser at YouTube: youtu.be/99bIAAvAhPg.
"Exodus" track listing: 01 - On The Nile 02 - Enslaved 03 - The Promised Land 04 - Let Us Go! 05 - Wrath Of Pharaoh 06 - The Ten Plagues 07 - Last Days In Egypt 08 - Exodus 09 - Song Of Deliverance 10 - Sole Survivor 11 – Mountain of God [CD bonus track]
For more information: www.signum-regis.com.
FIVE THINGS LEARNED OPENING FOR BOSTON: Five Things I Learned Opening For Boston by Stevie Adamek - "In May of 1978, I was on the road as the drummer for the Seattle rock band Bighorn, and we had three shows scheduled to open for Boston. The first show was at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii, which could hold about 50,000 people. After that show, we were supposed to fly back to Seattle to open for Journey, and then it was back to opening for Boston somewhere in Oregon, and then Montana. Our debut record on Columbia Records Canada/US, self-titled Bighorn, was on the charts in Honolulu, as, of course, was Boston's first album. They were just about to release their second album, Don't Look Back."
Read on here: solveigandstevie.com/five-things-i-learned-opening-for-boston-by-stevie-adamek/
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, and as the 
. The album's full track listing can be seen below. Look for the band to tour North America and around the globe this year in support of High Road.
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) and deluxe configuration (
). The deluxe edition comes in a glossy digipak and includes the bonus track "Another Beautiful Day" and a DVD including a Making of the Album documentary as well as the videos for "Rat Race" and title track "Better Days Comin'." Fans can also order exclusive bundles, autographed items and more from the band's webstore at: 
(Reg) or 
(Deluxe). Plus - new Frontiers promo spot.
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