Wed
29
Apr

RED DRAGON CARTEL Swaps Singer....Again.

 
CHAS WEST is the latest singer for RED DRAGON CARTEL. He is now the 2nd singer in less than a month to front the band after DARREN SMITH left the lineup.
 
 
Tue
28
Apr

Sweden's KILLER BEE Announces US Tour With PAUL CHAPMAN Guesting

Artist: 
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Categories: 
Tour News
 
Killer Bee Sweden’s new Hard Rock export are ready to rock as they prepare for their scheduled 5 week tour of USA. On the heels of their newest release (April 13 2015) “Rock Another Day” and with the positive response to their release from radio and media Killer Bee look forward to visiting  18 cities in their cross country tour starting May 1 in Florida and ending on June 6 in California.
 
Breaking News… Paul Chapman (UFO) joins Killer Bee on the road…
 
 
Killer Bee are proud to announce that joining them on this tour is guitar player extraordinaire, Paul  Chapman (UFO).
 
This is the band I talked to too my wife about a week ago! Before I knew about any of this.  I need a band that's formed and (semi) organized, so I can become part of a rugby type team again! Camarderie!  They fell out of the sky from Sweden into my crotch!! I will commit 110% to my new project. Or die........... Paul Chapman.
 
From the Killer Bee camp: “We feel overjoyed and excited to have Paul Chapman, a long time veteran in the rock world  join us on this sprint across the states. Due to circumstances beyond our control  guitarist Jimmy Delisi will not be able to join us on tour This addition of Paul on lead guitar is a real boost to the line-up.”  
 
The timing could not be better. This new addition of Paul Chapman combined with the earlier addition of rhythm guitarist André Hägglund really rounds off the traditional heavy sound of Killer Bee.
 
Tour Dates

05.01 - Gainesville, FL - High Dive
05.02 - Atlanta, GA - Swayzes
05.03 - Nashville, TN - The Basement
05.07 - Charlotte, NC - Tremont Music Hall
05.08 - Long Branch, NJ - Brighton Bar
05.09 - Bristol, PA - Freddies
05.15 - Akron, OH Empire Concert Club
05.17 - North Canton, OH - Sadie Rene’s
05.20 - Milwaukee, WI - Metal Grill
05.21 - Omaha, NE - Shamrocks
05.22 - Denver, CO - Bushwackers
05.24 - Boise, ID - Crazy Horse
05.23 - Spokane, WA - The Pin (Pinnacle)
05.27 - Seattle, WA - Funhouse (formerly El Corazon)
05.28 - Portland, OR - Bossanova
06.03 - Ventura, CA - Billy O’s
06.05 - Long Beach, CA - Blacklight District Lounge
06.06 - Hermosa Beach, CA - Saint Rocke
 
The official line-up for Killer Bee on tour is now…
 
Brian “Bee” Frank  - Lead Vocals / Anders “LA” Rönnblom - Bass Vocals / Morgan Evans - Drums, Percussion /  Denny Demarchi – Organ, Piano, Vocals / Paul Chapman - Lead Guitar, Vocals / André Hägglund - Guitar, Vocals
 
 
 
Tue
28
Apr

VIRGIN STEELE Announce New Studio Album 'Nocturnes of Hellfire & Damnation'

Artist: 
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Categories: 
News Feed
 
VIRGIN STEELE  change the title for their forthcoming new studio album in 'Nocturnes of Hellfire & Damnation'.
 
David DeFeis says about the new album: "Our new album which is called "NOCTURNES OF HELLFIRE & DAMNATION",  is not a concept album per se, but there is a through line that connects the tracks. The lyrics essentially deal with relationship issues and by that I mean....the connections between entities....as in all sorts of beings, not only human beings…but also Gods & Goddessses, Spirits, Elements, or whatever, plus various creatures, animal, vegetable and or mineral, but largely the album is about connections between people. People and their belief systems, people and their Gods or Goddesses…people and their life philosophies and also the variouus substances we invest or inject into our daily or nightly rituals and our worldview, and all the complexities of what drives us, makes us who we are and takes us where we may…or may not be going. To sum it up thiis album  is about....all the various ways in which humans can entangle themselves, or destroy themselves…so the album&'s title essentially encompasses what the vibe of the whole Work is about. The title relates to the album in the way that the title 'NOBLE SAVAGE', or 'AGE OF CONSENT', expressed each of those particular Works. The title provides a framework and connective tissue, but each song is really its own thing.
 
Musically the album is pretty heavy, high energy, often dark, at turns melancholy, and at turns aggressive or angry sounding. It does have that over the top bombastic heaviness that we are about, and the whole Barbaric-Romantic thing that we are known for. The overarching theme that comes to mind when I think about the album or listen to it is passion…raw passion. There are big monolithic riffss, moody chord changes, 'classical' type bits, sort of Bluesy moments....it retains the VIRGIN STEELE signature, but it adds new dimensions to it. In a strange way it "feels" to me like it could have been the album we might have made to follow up "NOBLE SAVAGE", had I been able to devote all my energies into the more bombastic or progressive side of my musical nature at that time, rather than trying to appease some of the other "factions" around me who wanted some kind of  a "hit"...whatever that meant at the time. So to conclude...we have infused the recordings with all that we have gone through over these past months, every fiber of our being.....and I think this album will be something our Fans will really enjoy!"

SPV / Steamhammer will release the new studio album on June 17th in Scandinavia, June 19th in Germany, June 22nd in Europe and June 23rd in the USA.

It will come out with three different covers as a standard 1CD version (the gargoyle cover), 2CD digipak version (the angel cover),  2 LP gatefold version (the flute playing skeleton cover) and download.
 

____________________________________________________________
 

 

 
Tue
28
Apr

MICHAEL SCHENKER Announces January 2016 UK Tour

Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Categories: 
Tour News
 
The award-winning, legendary guitarist Michael Schenker will embark on a nationwide UK tour with his band Temple of Rock starting at the Bilston Robin in Wolverhampton on Wednesday 20th January 2016.
A 48-Hour Planet Rock ticket pre-sale starts at 9am on Wednesday 29th April at www.planetrock.com. Tickets will be available to the general public on Friday 1st May via www.thegigcartel.com and the 24-hour box office: 0844 478 0898.
 
Schenker will perform tracks from his current studio album Spirit On A Mission which features the singles Vigilante Man and Live and Let Live.
Spirit On A Mission is a rapturous, explosive collection of brand new songs steeped in shades of dark and light. Musically and lyrically, the new album shows a re-energised guitarist at the top of his game, surrounded by some of the best musicians in rock.
 

Photo Credit: © Steve Brinkman
The new album features twelve classic rock guitar-driven songs that highlight Schenker’s distinctive and dynamic guitar playing, valiantly underpinned by the ferocious rhythm section of Herman Rarebell and Francis Buchholz, the same rhythm section that originally performed together on the Scorpions’ 1979 album Lovedrive.
Scottish vocalist Doogie White, who co-wrote the album with Schenker, soars across every song, and stamps his personality with every note and phrase, while Wayne Findlay adds a new level to Schenker’s classic sound with his Dean 7-string guitar and keyboard arrangements.
 
 
Tue
28
Apr

BLACK MAJESTY Announce Details For 'Cross Of Thorns' Album

Artist: 
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
Categories: 
News Feed

Australian power metal band Black Majesty have signed to new European label Pride & Joy Music for the release of their upcoming sixth studio album titled 'Cross Of Thorns'.
Cross Of Thorns is dedicated to Dirk Illing (R.I.P.) - the band's long time artist who did all the band's cover art work for the first five album's.
 
Cross Of Thorns was mixed and mastered by Roland Grapow (Masterplan) and includes a tribute to Gary Moore with the band recording a cover of the classic 'Out In The Fields' with a lead vocal duet with Jason Old from The Radio Sun. The new album art work was created by Aldo Requena and will be released in July 2015.
 
BLACK MAJESTY have already played and received great reviews after performing at some of the world’s biggest heavy metal festivals including Wacken Open Air Germany, Masters of Rock Czech Republic, Metal Universe Slovakia, Screamfest Australia
The current line-up is: John Cavaliere - vocals, Stevie Janevski - guitars, Hanny Mohamed - guitars & keyboards, Evan Harris - bass, Ben Wignall - drums
 
 
Tue
28
Apr

One On One With Mitch Lafon - TONY HARNELL

Artist: 
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Categories: 
Podcasts & Radio
 
In episode 106 of One On One With Mitch Lafon, Mitch is joined by former TNT and current SKID ROW frontman, Tony Harnell.

In this episode, Tony looks back at his career with TNT, joining & moving forward with Skid Row, the possibility of writing new music with Rachel Bolan and Dave 'Snake' Sabo, and much more.

This episode is co-hosted by FIREHOUSE guitarist, Bill Leverty.

For more about Tony Harnell & Skid Row visit: http://www.skidrow.com- http://www.tonyharnell.com and on Twitter:  @tonyharnell

For more about BILL LEVERTY visit: http://www.facebook.com/LevertyMusic and on Twitter: @Leverty

This Episode of One On One With Mitch Lafon is brought to you by the Heavy Montreal Festival taking place on August 7th, 8th and 9th at Parc Jean Drapeau in Montreal. This year featuring Lamb Of God, Slipknot, Korn, Faith No More as well as '80s artists Dokken, Lita Ford and Warrant. Visit: http://www.heavymontreal.com

Head over to our official FACEBOOK page for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the HEAVY MONTREAL FESTIVAL: http://www.facebook.com/OneOnOneMitchLafon

Follow Mitch Lafon on Twitter: @mitchlafon
One on One With Mitch Lafon's Official Twitter is: @1On1WithMitch
And Official Facebook page is: http://www.facebook.com/OneOnOneMitchLafon
 
 
Tue
28
Apr

FAITH CIRCUS - New LineUp, New Live Dates, New Album

Artist: 
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Categories: 
News Feed

FAITH CIRCUS will tour in support of Robin Beck on the Norwegian leg of her "All That Glitters Tour 2015"! May 28'th (Oslo), May 29'th (Bergen) & May 30'th (Stavanger). Check STAHL Entertainment Ltd., or FAITH CIRCUS facebook page for further information.
 
The band will also announce a new lineup later this week ahead of their new studio album due later in the year.
 
 
Mon
27
Apr

FIREWORKS Magazine Issue 69 - Out Now - WHITESNAKE

Monday, April 27, 2015
Categories: 
News Feed
 
Fireworks #69 stands tall as one of the very best issues we've ever put out. First up we have a phenomenal interview with David Coverdale who talks all about the new Whitesnake record 'The Purple Album', offering an intriguing insight into getting back in touch with Ritchie Blackmore, the idea of the two of them working together again, and MUCH more. It was so good we extended it to three full pages! And we didn't exactly put all of our eggs in one basket, considering we also have Nightwish, Halestorm, Status Quo, Michael Schenker, FM, Black Star Riders, Richie Kotzen, Neal Morse, Jim Peterik, Steve Hackett and Nelson... and that's only some of the TWENTY SIX interviews in total.

We've also got our usual massive array or reviews, covering the new releases on CD, EP, DVD and book formats from the Rock, Metal, Progressive, Blues, Southern, AOR and Melodic Rock spectrum. And speaking of CDs ... 68 FREE songs!

Fireworks #69 also proudly presents a CD that is included FREE and provides you with no less than SIXTY EIGHT full songs in MP3 format, plus an accompanying PDF spanning 22 pages that tells you everything you need to know about the artists on there. And if you have an aversion to CD, don't worry, if you buy the magazine you can download them too. We've thought of everything!
 
On sale in WH Smith stores across UK from Thursday 23rd April, and across USA and Canada from mid May.

Alternatively, buy online HERE!! http://www.rocktopia.co.uk/index.php?option=com_rokquickcart&view=rokquickcart&Itemid=401

 

 
Mon
27
Apr

Double Stop Podcast - Producer TOM WERMAN

Artist: 
Monday, April 27, 2015
Categories: 
Podcasts & Radio
 
This week on the Double Stop Podcast is Producer Tom Werman.
 
Tom walks us through his legendary producing career, from Cheap Trick to Motley Crue, and Twisted Sister to Dokken. He talks about his early days in music, and his rise to famed music Producer multiple hit records under his belt.
He also addresses criticism by Cheap Trick, Twisted Sister and Motley Crue over his production style, and discusses his challenges working with George Lynch on the "Tooth and Nail" CD.
He also covers the film Rock Star, and how helpful Jeff Pilson was in the studio. And finally, we discuss his retirement from the music business, and his latest venture - a luxury Bed & Breakfast in Massachusetts called Stoneover Farm.

https://soundcloud.com/thedoublestop/ep-57-tom-werman-twisted-sister-cheap-trick-dokken-motley-crue

http://thedoublestop.com/ep-57-tom-werman-producer-cheap-trick-twisted-sister-motley-crue-dokken-rock-star/
 
Fri
24
Apr

PETERIK/SCHERER - Risk Everything (Review)

information persons: 
Produced By: 
Jim Peterik
Running Time: 
52
Release Date: 
2015
Released: 
Worldwide
Musical Style: 
Melodic Rock
Label: 
Frontiers
Score: 
95
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Categories: 
Reviews
 
Sir Jim Of Peterik returns with another essential dose of pure, classic melodic rock, on which the songwriter/guitarist/keyboardist has built his career.
And alongside Sir Jim on this occasion is a new partner in crime, a new Knight of the AOR Realm, vocalist Marc Scherer.
This is one for anyone that has appreciated Jim Peterik’s vast contributions to the rock world.
The 80s AOR of Survivor; the pomp of Ides Of March and the birth of Jim’s own identity via Pride Of Lions and his work with Jimi Jamison on Crossroads Moment.
The voice of the Peterik machine is fellow Chicago native Marc Scherer, who whilst having a long local musical history, will now be heralded as ‘another’ Peterik discovery.
 
His contribution to this album is a vital one. His voice is extraordinary. He lifts these already great tunes into classic territory and the warmth in his tone brightens these songs immeasurably.
Marc has the perfect AOR voice. He mixes Jimi Jamison’s higher range and Toby Hitchcock’s lower register to create another essential voice to Jim’s work. No wonder Jim decided he just had to do an album with him.
 
Risk Everything has all those Peterik trademarks – soaring vocals, passionate ballads, rousing anthems and feel good lyrics and sentimental melodies.
And for the delight of Peterik fan club members (and perhaps the frustration of others), there’s also a little of Jim’s own unique pomp-n-stage style rock opera friendly songs in the mix.
 
The quality of this album is to be praised. Risk Everything is akin to the debut Pride Of Lions album and Crossroads Moment and features perhaps the best production quality and mix to date from Jim’s usual band of brothers – Larry Millas, Mike Aquino, Ed Breckenfeld and Bob Lizik.
The vocals have already been praised (as should the multiple harmony vocals throughout – from Marc alongside Alex Ligertwood); the drums are perfect; the mix of keyboards and guitars even and balanced.
 
The songs hint at classic Survivor, the best of Pride Of Lions and also a determination to stand on their own. Jim and Marc have spent a long time getting this album right over the last few years. It has been worth the wait and I can’t imagine any fans of Jim or Jimi or Toby not eating this up.
There are many highlights – in fact, each track on the 11 song album has its own place and identity. This is also the closest to Survivor I have heard yet from Jim.
 
After a rousting intro, the album explodes with Risk Everything - one of the AOR songs of 2015 with its driving beat and the rising verse to a long chorus double dose of melody.
Chance Of A Lifetime is almost Vital Signs material such is the keyboard heavy melodic rocker with a feel good aura.
Then there’s Cold Blooded which sounds again like an 80s movie anthem with a modern production and a strong chorus punch.
Desperate In Love has that I Can’t Hold Back kind of classic AOR feel.
Thee Crescendo is everything some love (and some hate) in Jim Peterik’s theatrical side. The over the top pomp rocker and lyrical salute to music belongs on a stage somewhere. Peterik fans will love it as I do.
Elsewhere on the album is the magic big ballad How Long Is A Moment; the Pride Of Lions rocker Brand New Heart; the moody Broken Home and the soaring mid-tempo AOR Milestones which features another great vocal from Marc.
The regular album closes with the feel good, free flowing melodic rock tune Independence Day.
 
The Japanese edition features 2 bonus tracks.
The Man I Am is almost reminiscent of Ever Since The World Began, but a step up in tempo. It’s a great ‘up’ ballad.
And Moments To Memories is simply another solid Peterik uptempo feel good melodic rock song.
There are two additional tracks recorded for the album that were at the last moment swapped to the Fergie Frederiksen/Jimi Jamison tribute album The Torch.
Both tracks were written in tribute – one for each singer. Heaven Passes The Torch for Jimi – a rousing anthemic AOR track with several guest vocals and some inspired vocals and harmonies.
You’re In Our Hearts is the tribute to Fergie and also sung once again by Marc. And what can you say – it’s a monster ballad that is a fitting tribute to the great man.
 

You know the sound, you know the style, you know the quality. The only thing left to work out is where you will buy this great album from.
 

 

 
Fri
24
Apr

IMPELLITTERI - Venom (Review)

information persons: 
content: 
86%
section name: 
BEST TRACKS
content: 
Produced By: 
Impellitteri
Running Time: 
40
Release Date: 
2015
Released: 
Worldwide
Musical Style: 
Melodic Metal
Label: 
Frontiers
Artist: 
Score: 
86
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Categories: 
Reviews
 
Chris Impellitteri has never been one to steer off course, so the contents of this disc should come as no surprise to fans, or to anyone for that matter.
Impellitteri is the Axel Rudi Pell of the shred metal world. Predictable but very talented, largely consistent and always enjoyable. Even better now that Rob Rock has rejoined for the last couple of albums. His voice and Chris’ manic riff-n-shred guitar playing go hand in and for me.
The only question is the songs – what kind of appeal will they have and what hold will they have over the listener.
The album starts with a flurry of screaming guitars, Rob Rock’s screaming voice and drummer Jon Dette hell bent on doing himself an injury; such is the tempo of the double kick drums.
In fact, his performance and the overall drum sound is a big plus on this album. James Pulli on bass ensures the speakers come within an inch of their life from the pounding they receive.
 
There’s 12 tracks here, but the album is still over faster than one of Chris’ solos. 40 minutes of music with only one song reaching the 4 minute mark, means there is no time for filler, no time for padding – just shredding, screaming and of course solos everywhere.
For me this is one of Impellitteri’s strongest albums. My favourite, the immense Answer To The Master will likely never be beaten, but this is solid for a veteran artist that continues to make new music.
 
The sound is immaculate and the songs, while similar in pace and tempo are memorable.
The particular standouts for me this time around is the opening Venom, the big groove of We Own The Night, the aggressive harmony backed Nightmare and the pounding intensity of Face The Enemy.
The rest – all good, if not similar, but that’s what we love about Chris.
 

No hesitation in recommending this to fans of Impellitteri and even casual fans if you are looking for some well-produced, hard hitting melodic metal.

 

 
Fri
24
Apr

FM - Heroes & Villains (Review)

information persons: 
Produced By: 
FM
Running Time: 
55
Release Date: 
2015
Released: 
Worldwide
Musical Style: 
Melodic Rock / AOR
Label: 
Frontiers
Artist: 
Score: 
92
Friday, April 24, 2015
Categories: 
Reviews
 
While you wait for Def Leppard to eventually release their new album and (probably not) return to their classic sound, melodic rock fans can feast in the delights of the new FM album, which sees the reborn British AOR legends crank the guitars further up in the mix and really hone in on that multi-layered, harmony filled, big production Def Leppard FM sound of the 80s.
FM have been going long enough now that they have a big, dedicated fan base that has followed them through the 80s, into the less notable 90s and back into the light of the last several years, which has seen a true renaissance for the band.
The pinnacle of their activity since reforming has to be this album.
Production is huge, mix is crisp, balanced and clean and if the songs are anything go by; long standing fans are going to need extra lotion to handle the glorious melodies.
And it’s hard to say such a thing for a band that’s been around 30 years, if you’ve never taken FM out for a test drive this will be the album to get you started.
 
Digging In The Dirt is a stop-start groovy rocker; You’re The Best Thing About Me is a glorious anthemic AOR monster, which has to be one of the band’s best ever songs. Vocalist Steve Overland just gets better with age.
Life Is A Highway is a simpler driving kinda tune, while Fire & Rain returns to a sultry groove.
Incredible is a brilliant ballad. A…well, incredible ballad!
Call On Me is another album highlight, a smooth, feel good, foot tapping melodic rocker with a huge chorus; Cold Hearted is a heavier Def Leppard style rocker; Shape I’m In switches back to the feel good layered harmonies; Big Brother is a moodier, brooding rocker; while Somedays I Only Want To Rock N Roll is my one skip of the album. I just don’t dig the lyrics or the vibe.
I Want You is more Leppard harmonizing and the album closes with the immensely personal and enjoyable soulful ballad Walking With Angels.
 

Another year, another new FM album and yes, another triumph! Essential for those that have the 3 albums since reforming and for long time fans it goes without saying.
Filled with finely produced and performed pomp and AOR, this British stalwart of the melodic scene continues to deliver without any signs of aging. 

 

Tags: 
 
Fri
24
Apr

KISKE / SOMERVILLE - City Of Heroes (Review)

information persons: 
Produced By: 
Mat Sinner
Running Time: 
55
Release Date: 
2015
Released: 
Worldwide
Musical Style: 
Melodic Metal
Label: 
Frontiers
Score: 
87
Friday, April 24, 2015
Categories: 
Reviews
 
5 years after an acclaimed debut, the team behind Kise/Somerville regroups for a sequel. The resultant album – City Of Angels – is everything the debut offered and more.
 
All the key players return – German metal singer Michael Kiske and American symphonic metal vocalist Amanda Somerville, along with producer and bassist Mat Sinner, who once again wrote the bulk of the album with guitarist/keyboardist Magnus Karlsson.
There is no major disruption to the formula of the debut or the same formula used by Karlsson on his Allen/Lande releases – that is dueling powerhouse vocals over a bed of swirling keyboards and ear crunching riffs and an in-your-face rhythm section (featuring drummer Veronika Lukesova).
 
Mixed and mastered by the best guy in the business, Jacob Hansen, this album has an even greater sonic impact than the debut and is another great example of Karlsson’s much loved bombastic style.
Song wise, we’re in safe hands and Sinner/Karlsson turn in some memorable melodic metal songs, with an even mix of power and pomp.
 
The opening title track is a wide choice to kick off the album while Walk On Water is an easy choice as single, being the most commercial track on the album.
Salvation is a free flowing anthemic metal track (written by Somerville)
Lights Out has an instantly likeable hook and is a great foot thumper.
And so it continues through the album in very consistent fashion. The tempo is kept up apart from the dreamy ballad Ocean Of Tears and the more impactful After The Night Is Over.
The feisty Open Your Eyes stands out, as does second from last Run With A Dream.
One thing I did notice quite clearly is that the star of this album is Amanda Somerville. She’s all over these songs and Kiske is definitely the minor player here.
 
 

Another easy purchase for fans of the debut and both singers. There’s no change in the formula and what is expected is delivered.
The production quality does seem to have jumped a notch or two and the clear mix makes for an easy listen.
 
 
Fri
24
Apr

Redemption Festival 2015


Redemption Festival 2015, held at Warehouse 23 in Wakefield (1000 capacity venue). Raising funds for Barnsley & Wakefield Hospices.

Live rock bands, comedians & prizes to be won on the day.
 
Tickets available at http://warehouse23.co.uk/events/redemption-festival/
 
 
Fri
24
Apr

MARK SLAUGHTER On 3 Sides Of The Coin

Friday, April 24, 2015
Categories: 
Podcasts & Radio

In Episode 123, April 21, 2015. Mark Slaughter Gives the Not So Pretty Details on Vinnie Vincent. What was the very first comment Vinnie Vincent made to Mark? What was the first comment Gene Simmons said to Mark when Slaughter toured with KISS? Who got the Vinnie Vincent Invasion their record deal? How did Slaughter get their record deal? How did Vinnie treat Mark on stage? Just what kind of a person is Vinnie Vincent? And of course... did Vinnie Vincent save KISS?

A couple revelations by Mark Slaughter:

Vinnie hears Mark sing for the very first time and says "That's bullshit." "That sounds like shit."

Before a show in Philadelphia, Vinnie tells Mark, "You really sounded like garbage last night and if you don't pull it together you're not singing on the record."

Follow Mark Slaughter online at www.MarkSlaughter.com and order his brand new solo album Reflections In A Rear View Mirror.


https://youtu.be/sUdT3jQdZsw?t=1405 23 minute mark the interview begins.

Since launching a year ago Three Sides of the Coin has been viewed or listened to over 1,000,000 times. In the last year, Three Sides of the Coin has been joined by special guests including former KISS lead guitarist Bruce Kulick, the Black Veil Brides' Andy Biersack, Frank Munoz associate producer for Ace Frehley's Anomaly album, award winning songwriter Adam Mitchell, Ed Kanon (Peter Criss' drum tech), and Kevin Valentine (drummer on KISS' Psycho Circus album). Three Sides of the Coin was recently picked (October 2013) as a 'What's Hot' podcast by Apple's iTunes.

In the early '90s, Michael Brandvold launched the fifth ever website on the Internet devoted to KISS, KISS Otaku. He was the first to build, launch and maintain Kissonline.com (KISS' official web presence). Tommy Sommers has spent many years on the record show circuit selling memorabilia and meeting many KISS fans.

It's only our opinion... it's neither right nor wrong.
 
Fri
24
Apr

Frontiers Signs BILLY SHERWOOD For New Project & World Trade

Friday, April 24, 2015
Categories: 
News Feed

Frontiers Records are pleased to announce the signing of former Yes (official) member Billy Sherwood for the release of a new, exciting band and concept album entitled 'Citizen'.
 
The creator of the record is former YES member/producer Billy Sherwood, who is well known for gathering amazing musicians together to perform on his projects. For this record, he has his eyes on some of the best in the business, once again, to help bring his vision to life....
 
In Billy's words, 'Citizen is the story of a lost soul wandering through time and living through many lives during historic periods of time. A reincarnate, he finds himself as a conscript to the ancient Roman legionaries, fighting in the last battles and as a witness to the fall of the Empire. As a close friend discussing the myth of the flat earth with Galileo. As an apprentice to Oppenheimer, he questions the ethics of splitting the atom and it's morality. As a messenger to the high command during WWI, racing through the trenches of Belgium and France. As a factory worker during the rise of the industrial age, merging man with machines. As a victim of the great depression with no options left....and more situations that place the "Citizen" in controversial, emotional and historic settings."
 
Billy has written all the music and production is now in full swing. Guest artists joining Billy in this journey through music, time and space include:
 
1 John Wetton (Asia [Original Asia])
2 Rick Wakeman Music (Yes)
3 Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater)
4 Tony Kaye (Yes)
5 Geoff Downes (Yes, Asia)
6 Chris Squire (Yes)
7 Steve Hackett (Genesis)
8 Jerry Goodman (The Mahavishnu Orchestra)
9 Steve Morse (Deep Purple, Dixie Dregs)
10 Steve Hillage (Gong)
11 Patrick Moraz (Yes)
12 John Wesley (Porcupine Tree)
 
More guests and musicians are TBA.
 
We hope to release this new album in early 2016.
 
In related news, Billy has also reformed his original band WORLD TRADE along with all the original members Bruce Gowdy on guitar, Guy Allison on keyboards and Mark T. Williams on drums. A new album in a musical direction close to Toto's most recent releases and Yes (90125/Big Generator era) will be unleashed after the release of 'Citizen'.
  
 
Thu
23
Apr

Cain's Offering - 'Stormcrow' (Official Audio)

Thursday, April 23, 2015
Categories: 
News Feed
Cain's Offering
Stormcrow
(Official Audio)

 

 
'Stormcrow' is taken from 'Stormcrow', the new album from Cain's Offering. Pre-order 'Stormcrow' at iTunes to get 'Stormcrow' & 'I Will Build You a Rome' INSTANTLY:
iTunes - http://radi.al/COStormcrowiTunes
Amazon - http://radi.al/COStormcrowAmazon
 
Watch 'I Will Build You a Rome' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VECI3keYKug

  

 
Wed
22
Apr

RICK SPRINGFIELD To Tour With LOVERBOY & THE ROMANTICS

Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Categories: 
Tour News
 
RICK SPRINGFIELD will be on tour this summer along with special guests LOVERBOY and THE ROMANTICS
 
8/29 – Delta Classic Chastain Park – Atlanta, GA
8/30 – St. Augustine Amphitheatre – St. Augustine, FL
9/2 – Hard Rock Live – Hollywood, FL
9/4 – Red Hat Amphitheater – Raleigh, NC
9/5 – Uptown Amphitheatre – Charlotte, NC
9/10 – First Merit Bank at Northerly Island – Chicago, IL
9/11 – Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica – Cleveland, OH*
9/12 – Borgata Event Center – Atlantic City, NJ
9/13 – PNC Bank Arts Center – Holmdel, NJ
9/16 – NYCB Theater at Westbury – Westbury, NY
9/17 – Sands Event Center – Bethlehem, PA
9/18 – Freedom Hill – Detroit, MI
9/20 – PNC Pavilion – Cincinnati, OH
9/22 – Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion – Houston, TX
9/23 – Zoo Amphitheatre – Oklahoma City, OK**
 
* Rick Springfield, Loverboy, Donnie Iris and The Cruisers
** Rick Springfield, Loverboy
 
Loverboy Press Release:
 
Time to haul out those iconic red leather pants and bandanas from mothballs, because Canadian hard-rocking legends Loverboy are ready for a full slate of summer touring, including a run of dates with fellow '80s hitmakers Rick Springfield and The Romantics for one of the season's must-see tripleheader concert events. Loverboy are currently enjoying a cultural renaissance, with major companies such as Taco Bell and RadioShack using the band's image and music to promote their products to the '80s generation which grew up on the group, and others who are just being introduced to their anthems. These days, Loverboy's not just "Working for the Weekend," but "Lovin' Every Minute of It," too, performing for those fans who "Get Lucky" enough to catch one of their shows.
 
Loverboy's tour starts with headline dates in April 25 in Pompano Beach, FL at the Pompano Beach Seafood Festival, and runs through October 1 at the Central Washington State Fair in Yakima, WA. The band will be joined by Springfield and The Romantics for dates starting August 29 at Atlanta's Chastain Amphitheater, running through September 23 in Oklahoma City, OK. The band will also be playing two shows in the Los Angeles area for the first time in years, including The Canyon Club in Agoura Hills, CA (September 25) and the Saban Theater in Beverly Hills (September 26). A full listing of dates is below.
 
Loverboy have been delighting audiences around the world since forming back in 1979 when vocalist Mike Reno was introduced to local guitar hot shot Paul Dean in Calgary. The group has four multi-platinum albums, including the four-million-selling Get Lucky, and a trio of double-platinum releases in their self-titled 1980 debut, 1983's Keep It Up and 1985's Lovin' Every Minute of It. Their string of hits includes, in addition to the arena-rock anthem "Working for the Weekend," such staples as "Lovin' Every Minute of It," "This Could Be the Night," "Hot Girls in Love," "The Kid is Hot Tonite," "Turn Me Loose," "When It's Over," "Heaven In Your Eyes" and "Queen of the Broken Hearts." Last July, the band released  Unfinished Business, their first collection of previously unreleased material in seven years.

Their summer tour dates are as follows (headliners unless noted) More dates TBA:

** w/ Rick Springfield and The Romantics
* w/ Rick Springfield and Donnie Iris
^ w/ Styx

April 25 - Pompano Beach Seafood Festival - Pompano Beach, FL
June 13 - Sandy Corley Memorial Run - Rothbury, MI
June 20 - PrairieFest - Oswego, IL
June 27 - Lakes Jam - Brainerd, MN
July 3 - 4th Fest - Coralville, IA
July 4 - Heritage Park - Junction City, KS
July 10 - Three Rivers Festival - Ft. Wayne, IN
July 18 - Summerwinds Family Music Festival - Victoria Beach, MB
July 25 - Timberwood Amphitheater - Hot Springs, AR
August 1 - Kenora Harbourfest - Kenora, ON
August 8 - Rock N August - St. Albert, AB
August 9 - Pinewood Bowl Theater - Lincoln, NE ^
August 14 - Pictou County Wellness Centre - New Glasgow, NS
August 15 - Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre - Bridgewater, NS
August 22 - Fallon County Fair - Baker, MT
August 29 - Chastain Amphitheater - Atlanta, GA **
August 30 - St. Augustine Amphitheater - St. Augustine, FL **
September 2 - Hard Rock Casino - Hollywood, FL **
September 4 - Red Hat - Raleigh, NC **
September 5 - Uptown Amphitheater - Charlotte, NC **
September 10 - Northerly Island - Chicago, IL **
September 11 - Jacobs Pavilion - Cleveland, OH *
September 12 - Borgata - Atlantic City, NJ **
September 13 - PNC - Holmdel, NJ **
September 16 - Music Theater - Westbury, NY **
September 17 - Event Center - Bethlehem, PA **
September 18 - Freedom Hill - Detroit, MI **
September 20 - PNC Pavilion at Riverbend - Cincinnati, OH **
September 22 - Cynthia Woods Pavilion - Houston, TX **
September 23 - Zoo Amphitheater - Oklahoma City, OK **
September 25 - Canyon Club - Agoura Hills, CA
September 26 - Saban Theater - Beverly Hills, CA
September 27 - Coach House - San Juan Capistrano, CA
September 29 - Kern County Fair - Bakersfield, CA
October 1 - Central Washington State Fair - Yakima, WA
 
 
Wed
22
Apr

NELSON 'Rockstar' Static Video Premiere

Artist: 
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Categories: 
News Feed
NELSON
'Rockstar'
Static Video Premiere

 

 
Preorder the album PEACE OUT NOW!
 
Amazon: http://radi.al/NelsonPeaceOutAmazon
 
iTunes: http://radi.al/NelsonPeaceOutiTunes
 
General Download: http://radi.al/NelsonPeaceOut
 
Release dates: EUROPE May 15 // NORTH AMERICA May 19
 
Tags: 
 
Tue
21
Apr

CORNERSTONE Announce European Tour And New Line-Up

Artist: 
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Categories: 
News Feed

There have been some rumours going 'round during the last weeks, but now it's official: in the beginning of 2015 Cornerstone decided to end their work with Patricia Hillinger after six years, and replace her with singer/ guitarplayer ALINA PETER. "Patricia has been full-heartedly involved in the band during the last years, and I have to say that we would not be where we are now without her," says bassist Michael. "But ultimately she made some decisions with which she disqualified herself morally. Everything else is a band issue and we would ask everyone explicitly to respect that."
 
Run-up discussions were held with the former Austrian Song Contest-starter NADINE BEILER (#18/2011) and SUSANNE GSCHWENDTNER, who was mainactor in the US series "The Quest" (ABC TV), but in the end the band chose Alina Peter because she is someone who "is not only great musically and personally, but is also able to set her mainfocus on Cornerstone, which would have been difficult with Nadine and Susanne due to their various other commitments," adds Wachelhofer. The fourpiece has already completed two concerts with Alina to test the waters, and so far everything is positive. New on board is also drummer CHRISTOPH KARRAS, who is "full of enthusiasm and joy" about the upcoming tour, that will guide Cornerstone through UK, Germany and Austria.
 
 
Tue
21
Apr

MR. BIG's Anniversary Year Gets Big With Second New Live Release Due

Artist: 
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Categories: 
News Feed
 
MR. BIG's cult status and their 25th Anniversary year keeps gettign bigger with the massive The Vault Box Set just released and now 2 double live albums due out May 27.
 
The first release has alreadybeen reported on - Raw Like Sushi 114+112 (http://melodicrock.com/articles/news-feed/2015/04/09/japan-lines-new-liv...)
 
Now 'Official Bootleg' can be added to the lost - due out the same date as Raw Like Sushi, May 27. 
 
This release is from the same tour, just two days earlier (November 8, 2014). 
 
The track listing is: 
1. Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy (The Electric Drill Song) 
2. Gotta Love the Ride 
3. American Beauty 
4. Undertow 
5. Alive and Kickin' 
6. I Forget to Breathe 
7. Take Cover 
8. Green-Tinted Sixties Mind 
9. Out of the Underground 
10. Guitar Solo (Paul Gilbert)
11. The Monster in Me 
12. Rock & Roll Over 
13. As Far as I Can See 
14. Wild World
15. East/West 
16. Just Take My Heart (Pat Torpey on drums)
17. Fragile (Pat Torpey on drums)
18. Around the World 
19. Bass Solo (Billy Sheehan)
20. Addicted to That Rush 
 
Encore:
21. To Be With You 
22. Colorado Bulldog 
23. Living After Midnight (Judas Priest cover)
24. Mr. Big (Pat Torpey on drums)
25. The World Is on the Way 
 
 
 
 
Additionally, you can now get some additional copies of The Vault via the CD Japan link below:
 
FULL review and feature on The Vault coming soon to MelodicRock.com
 
Mr. Big The Vault 25 Web Limited Edition /
 
Tags: 
 
Tue
21
Apr

Rock Candy Records Latest - DOKKEN & TRAPEZE

Artist: 
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Categories: 
News Feed

The following three 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 May 3rd.
 
DOKKEN 'BACK FOR THE ATTACK' CANDY266
 
THE FACT THAT Dokken were never the most tightly bonded quartet has been well documented. Internal rancour and persistent inter-band feuding seemed the order of the day (particularly between vocalist Don Dokken and guitarist George Lynch) yet the by-product of such friction seemed to stir the band to amazingly creative highs as this, their fourth studio, album firmly demonstrates. Issued to huge acclaim, to a fan base already primed by the platinum success of their previous album ‘Under Lock And Key’, this album is generally regarded as their most accomplished work.

Re-recording took place over a ten month stretch, with a total of five state-of-the-art Los Angeles studio being utilised. Originally issued in late 1987, and produced by Neil Kernon (Autograph, Queensryche, Kansas), ‘Back For The Attack is a consummate example of late 80s melodic hard rock, stuffed to the rim with all the right moves and grooves. Don Dokken’s instantly identifiable vocals and George Lynch’s guitar solos, soak the songs with enough vim and vigour to elevate them to classic status.

Tracks such as ‘Burning Like A Flame’, ‘Heaven Sent’, ‘Prisoner’ and ‘Dream Warriors’, the theme song to the hit horror movie ‘Nightmare On Elm Street 3’, are some of the best tracks the band ever recorded. It’s sad to note that the band’s final demise started almost immediately upon completion of this album, leaving the hard rock community without one of the best acts of the 80s.

Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, one bonus track, fully remastered sound, 16 page full colour booklet, features new interview with Don Dokken, 3,500 word essay and enhanced artwork.

TRACK LISTING: 1. KISS OF DEATH 2. PRISONER 3. NIGHT BY NIGHT 4. STANDING IN THE SHADOWS 5. HEAVEN SENT 6. MR. SCARY 7. SO MANY TEARS 8. BURNING LIKE A FLAME 9. LOST BEHIND A WALL 10. STOP FIGHTING LOVE 11. CRY OF THE GYPSY 12. SLEEPLESS NIGHTS 13. DREAM WARRIORS BONUS TRACK: 14. BACK FOR THE ATTACK

 

TRAPEZE 'HOT WIRE' CANDY264

TRAPEZE WERE INITIALLY one of the most promising and, later on, revered bands to have emerged from the UK during the 1970s. They blasted their way from obscurity to international acclaim, then, just as stardom beckoned, the carpet was pulled from under their feet when in 1973 vocalist and front man Glenn Hughes opted to leave the band, hitching his wagon to hard rock grandees Deep Purple. The general consensus was that Trapeze would not be able to carry on after such a catastrophic blow yet, against all the odds, they dusted themselves down, retrenched and got back in the ring to fight another day.

Choosing to expand the band’s line-up, founding members guitarist Mel Galley and drummer Dave Holland opted to recruit fellow Midlanders, bassist Pete Wright and second guitarist Rob Kendrick. Together they took the Trapeze blueprint of funky hard rock and injected it with a far more hook-laden sheen. Showing real growth the band’s sound evolved incrementally, with Mel Galley taking on lead vocals, there were now songs that wouldn’t be out of place in the esteemed company of mid seventies US arena acts such as Derringer, Montrose and Foghat.

Originally issued in 1974 and produced by veteran blues champion Neil Slaven (Savoy Brown, Chicken Shack, Stray) at Island Records Basing Street studios in London, the album contains a stellar selection of hard-hitting tracks, including ‘Back Street Love’, ‘Wake Up, Shake Up’ and the album centrepiece ‘Midnight Flyer’, an impressive and hard hitting funk fuelled track built to blow your mind.

Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound, 12 page full colour booklet, features new interviews, 3,500 word essay and previously unseen photos.

TRACK LISTING: 1. BACK STREET LOVE 2. TAKE IT ON DOWN THE ROAD 3. MIDNIGHT FLYER 4. WAKE UP, SHAKE UP 5. TURN IT ON 6. STEAL A MILE 7. GOIN’ HOME 8. FEEL IT INSIDE

TRAPEZE 'S/T' CANDY265

PER CAPITA THE British Midlands produced an extraordinary amount of heavy rock bands during the late 60s and early 70s. Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, Slade and half of Led Zeppelin spring immediately to mind, but of serious note are Trapeze, the group that first introduced us to the extraordinary talent of vocalist and bassist Glenn Hughes. Developing a fervent fan following, especially in the USA, this killer power trio specialised in a brilliant mash-up of hard rock and funk. All was going swimmingly until Hughes was purloined in 1973 by rock behemoths Deep Purple.

Refusing to succumb to defeat, Trapeze regrouped, this time adding two new members to fill the void left by Hughes whilst founding member Mel Galley assumed lead vocal duties. ‘Hot Wire’, the resultant album, was an impressive statement, sending out an unequivocal message that the band was far from spent. Indeed, their stature in the US and especially Texas, was further enhanced with intensive gigging and chart success. For their fifth album (confusingly self titled) the band continued their musical assault, unleashing a record that was more consistent with arena rock of the mid seventies.

Released in 1976, produced by Steve Smith (Back Street Crawler, Rough Diamond and Detective) and recorded in London at Island Studios (mixed by an uncredited Eddie Kramer), the record showcases defiant swagger, and riffs to die for. It even contains two songs featuring Glenn Hughes who had remained a staunch supporter of the band.

Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound, 12 page full colour booklet, features new interviews, 3,500 word essay and previously unseen photos.

TRACK LISTING: 1. STAR BREAKER 2. IT’S ALRIGHT 3. CHANCES 4. THE RAID 5. ON THE SUNNY SIDE OF THE STREET 6. GIMMIE GOOD LOVE 7. MONKEY 8. I NEED YOU 9. SOUL STEALER 10. NOTHING FOR NOTHING
 
 
 
 
Tue
21
Apr

New Metal Project BLASTED TO STATIC

Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Categories: 
News Feed
 
Brace yourself for a vicious onslaught of shredding rock unlike anything you've heard in a long time. More explosive than a hailstorm of hand grenades, BLASTED TO STATIC delivers a cutting-edge offering that is both refreshingly new, and re-imagines the hallmarks of 80’s guitar histrionics as a sonic hurricane that will blow the roof off 2015.
 
Headed up by the incendiary vocals of Jeff Martin (Racer X, Badlands, Leatherwolf, Surgical Steel) and fret-melting wizardry of Stu Marshall (Death Dealer, Empires of Eden, Ex-Dungeon), with the rhythmic talents of Rev Jones (Steelheart, MSG, Black Symphony) on bass and session demigod Clay T on drums, Blasted to Static represents an uncompromising and intense odyssey from veterans of the metal scene.
 
But for all the high-octane, hook-laden riffing mayhem, the band’s versatility also encompasses acoustic elements and more subtle, understated interludes. “We’re embracing an organic approach with this band,” says guitarist Stu Marshall. “Don’t expect music from a single genre, Blasted to Static is all about full artistic freedom, so you might even hear echoes of Black Sabbath or Queen.”
 
Recording is already well underway for the currently untitled debut album, and concert dates for late 2015/early 2016 are in the planning stages.
 
Dangerous, unstoppable and impossible to predict, this savage yet focused shock-and-awe campaign will make any jaded metal fan sit the f__k up and take notice.
 
Shaking off the tired, formulaic monotony that many of us have become accustomed to, Blasted to Static blazes ahead into a golden future of guitar ripping rock.
 

For the latest band news, visit their official Facebook page: Blasted to Static Facebook page

 
 
Tue
21
Apr

MARK TREMONTI Talks To Guitar International

Artist: 
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Categories: 
Podcasts & Radio
 
By: Robert Cavuoto
Mark Tremonti – photo credit: Robert Cavuoto
 
Guitarist Mark Tremonti seeks to explore and discover new walls to breakdown in a never-ending quest to master the guitar. As he reaches the horizon of the guitar, he finds a plateau, only to find yet another world of mastery to work toward.
It’s the magic of the instrument and the essence of inventiveness and creativity and for the guitarist, an unquenchable thirst.
 
What separates the innovators from the followers is the courage to try something different and overcoming the challenges, to break the rules and rewrite them at every opportunity.
We all know that this was the case with guitar greats like Eddie Van Halen, Jimi Hendrix, and Randy Rhoads. Mark Tremonti can be added to this list of innovators as he is finding that there are still walls in guitar playing to break down.
With his powerful and unfaltering right hand he is known for his horse galloping and string muting. With his left hand he marries sheer speed with technical intricacies. Combine that with his experimentation of tuning and prolific songwriting, there should be not doubts as to why he is a guitar player for a new generation.
 
He is back with his solo band and putting out the group’s sophomore CD, Cauterize, slated for release on June 9 via Fret 12 Records. The album features Mark on vocals/guitars, Eric Friedman on guitars, Wolfgang Van Halen on bass and Garrett Whitlock on drums. It’s produced by long-time friend and collaborator, Michael “Elvis” Baskette
 
 
.MarkT1
 
 
Tue
21
Apr

Noize In The Attic Podcast - STEVE WHITEMAN (Kix)

Artist: 
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Categories: 
Podcasts & Radio

Steve Whiteman is this week's guest on Noize In The Attic - Where Your Past Comes Back To Haunt You (www.noizeintheattic.com) on 88.7FM New Haven CT. Steve talks of their newest album Rock Your Face Off, and catches us up on all things KIX!
 
Hear the full episode (the interview starts at 70 minute mark)
 
 

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