In the past two years, Hardline has performed a number of shows across Europe, including festivals and more intimate gigs, and that live “energy” can certainly be felt on their new studio album. The band went back to 1992's “Double Eclipse” album for influence for the songs on this record, but additionally they also looked a little closer in the rearview at the tremendous predecessor to this album, “Human Nature”.
The resulting album, LIFE, perfectly blends the influences of those two albums and sees Hardline heavier, stronger, bigger, and better than ever. The band entered the studio feeling loose and relaxed from all their gigging. The two newest members, Marco Di Salvia on drums and Mario Percudani on guitar, had gelled seamlessly with the rest of the band from all those shows and combined with Anna Portalupi's pulsating rhythms and Alessandro Del Vecchio's songwriting and production abilities, LIFE was almost effortless for the band to create. And of course, Johnny Gioeli sings like only he can over top of these incredible musicians.
LIFE will be released April 26, 2019 on CD/LP/Digital.
More live dates will be forthcoming for the band, including a performance on April 27th at the Frontiers Rock Festival in Milan, IT.
The Michael Thompson Band is back with their brand new album, “Love And Beyond” on April 26, 2019! For this new release, Michael wanted to go back to the more polished AOR sound of the band’s debut album. Once again, he teamed up with Wyn Davis for the mix and also had the amazing Mark Spiro involved in the songwriting and appearing on vocals together with the awesome Larry King and Larry Antonino. Best known for being Unruly Child’s bass player, Antonino delivers a phenomenal vocal performance which can only be defined as stunning. Another Unruly Child member, Guy Allison appears on keyboards, while drums on the album are handled by Sergio Gonzalez and Tim Pedersen.
Amongst musician circles, Michael Thompson is considered one of the leading guitar players in the world. He was awarded the "Distinguished Alumni" award from his alma mater Berklee College of Music to commemorate his contributions to the music industry. Berklee's program for the event noted that "he is widely regarded as being among the elite studio session players, and his amazing list of credits includes such prominent names as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, 'N Sync, Toni Braxton, Phil Collins, Rod Stewart, the Scorpions, Vince Neil, Christina Aguilera, Michael Bolton, Mariah Carey, Bette Midler, Madonna, Babyface, En Vogue, Gloria Estefan, Stanley Clarke and Ricky Martin."
Originally from New York, Michael moved to Los Angeles in 1979 to begin a studio musician career. In 1988, after working to try and get a deal with his band Slang, he finally got signed by Geffen Records to release one album entitled "How Long", under the Michael Thompson Band (M.T.B.) monicker.On "How Long", more great studio musicians appeared as guests, in particular drummer-maestro Terry Bozzio, singer Moon Calhoun (ex The Strand), Pat Torpey (Mr Big), bassist Jimmy Haslip, John Elefante (Kansas), Toto's Bobby Kimball, and Great White associates Michael Lardie and Wyn Davis (who also produced the album). Songwriters would include, among others, AOR luminaries such as Jeff Paris, Mark Spiro, Billy Trudel and Brett Walker.
As of today, “How Long” is still regarded as one of the highest examples of hi-tech AOR / West Coast, with superb production and immaculate songwriting. Reissued in 2007 with 3 bonus tracks, it started a relationship between Michael Thompson and Frontiers, who put out the new Michael Thompson Band album in early 2012.
For the second album which Frontiers released in 2012, Michael teamed up with the awesome singer Larry King from the band Soleil Moon. Larry brought a new and more rocking approach to the MTB sound, but certainly the trademark elements of songwriting and melodies were still to be found on the “Future Past”.
Vocalist/guitarist Alessio Garavello (Ex-Power Quest/Arthemis) and bassist Andrea Lonardi formed A New Tomorrow in London in 2009. The two were later joined by drummer Tim Hall and guitarist Michael Kew (Vega). The band have since honed their sound into powerful, uplifting, hard-hitting melodic hard rock, which drew the attention of Frontiers in 2018 and led to the band's signing.
Rock giants like Alter Bridge, Foo Fighters, Metallica, and Green Day are influential to A New Tomorrow’s musical roots and this rock solid foundation is the road map from which the band developed their sound. Conveying A New Tomorrow’s love for life and go-getter attitude, both on and off stage, their music is meant to motivate and inspire.
Drummer Tim Hall comments, “Several years of amazing times, full of both ups and downs, not just as a band, but as great friends, gave us the foundation to write something special for our music. Universe became the only title to encompass all our experiences as individuals and as a band, with themes - from fear and doubt to taking back the pursuit of our hopes and dreams - that I think all of us can identify with.”
Hall continues, “Expect dynamic and heavy songs, with intricate, interwoven grooves, alongside blankets of melodic guitars and powerful vocals. We feel invigorated playing this music and can’t wait to unleash that energy live in 2019.”
Alessio Garavello on signing to Frontiers: “It’s fantastic to start working with a label that shares the same vision for our music that we do! This union presents an opportunity for us to grow and evolve as a band and we really can’t wait to continue the journey in 2019 and beyond.”
For those unfamiliar with A New Tomorrow, check out videos for previously released tracks “Brighter Than The Sun” and “Damn You” HERE: http://www.anewtomorrowband.com/videos.html
Stay tuned for more info on UNIVERSE and the release of the first single from the album later this year.
Line-up:
Alessio Garavello - Vocals/Guitar
Andrea Lonardi - Bass
Tim Hall - Drums
Michael Kew - Guitar
What is certain to be one of the top rock performances of the summer has been announced, with the 2019 edition of the Tail Winds Music Fest. The all-day performance will be held on Saturday, June 29th at The Hudson Valley Regional Airport, in Wappingers Falls, New York (gates open at 11:00am). Headlining the show is Chris Robinson Brotherhood, with additional sets by the likes of Black Stone Cherry, Geoff Tate’s Operation: Mindcrime, King’s X, and Sass Jordan.
Pre-sale general admission tickets are priced at $55, and a VIP experience is also available for $150 (tickets for kids twelve years of age and under will be $25) - very affordable prices indeed for such renowned rock acts. Tickets are available for purchase via tailwindsmusicfest.com.
In addition to a day’s worth of great music, concert goers will also get a chance to dine and drink via a variety of craft beer and food trunk vendors, a VIP experience second to none, while mobile lockers and helicopter rides will also be available. The event has a number of sponsors so far, including iHeartMedia, Lexington Center for Recovery, and Kings Court Brewing Company. The event is benefitting the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation.
“We were excited about bringing together a varied line-up of electric rock bands on one show, as the area is missing an event like this. With bands, local food trucks, craft breweries and helicopter rides, it’s an experience you don’t see at other festivals, while also supporting local businesses and raising money for a terrific cause.” -Tail Winds Music Festival creators Matt Cavaliere and Chris Muratore
Be sure to mark June 29th on your calendar and get ready for a great day of rock n’ roll and summertime fun!
Former Guns N Roses Guitarist To Release First Solo Album In 15 Years!
GOLDEN ROBOT RECORDS Welcomes Gilby Clarke To The Family!
The world’s fastest growing independent record label, Golden Robot Records, continues it’s upward trajectory into 2019. Starting the year off with a bang, the label is honored to welcome to the family, the guitar icon Gilby Clarke!
Gilby recently signed a GLOBAL deal with Golden Robot Records which will see a brand new solo album - The Gospel Truth - released this year. This will be Gilby’s first in over 15 years!
Mark Alexander-Erber, Golden Robot Entertainment Group Founder and President: says of signing Clarke; 'I couldn’t be happier to sign such an incredible artist like Gilby Clarke to our GRR international roster. He is totally authentic through and through. He brings such a wealth of experience to his songwriting, playing and producing and I know the world is ready for his new solo album which is a long time coming. It is an honour to release this record.’
Clarke explains his excitement about the signing “I am so happy to be a part of the Golden Robot family for my new solo record. I use the word family because I feel like I found a home. We share the same passion for Rock n Roll! Rock N Roll is alive n’ well & together we will turn it up loud!”
Gilby recently did an interview with Gibson Guitars at the 2019 Namm show in Los Angeles where he discusses his upcoming album.
Watch it here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFnVXj5JyCg
Best known for his tenure in the mighty Guns N Roses, Gilby has a long and storied career of which, GNR is only a part. Arriving in Hollywood as a 17 year old punk from Cleveland, Gilby soon found himself as a ghost writer and session player for former Runaway’s manager, Kim Fowleywho then urged him to join the band, Candy. Gilby proved a little too rough and ready for the polished power-poppers and found himself a home both with hard-rockers Kill For Thrills and as a songwriter for Virgin Records.
Then a late night call from Slash changed everything… Gilby joined Guns N Roses in late 1991, replacing the recently departed Izzy Stradlin. For the next 3 years, Gilby strapped in for the wildest ride of his life, playing stadiums the world over and appearing on Guns N Roses, Spaghetti Incident, Live Era ’88-’91 and The Greatest Hits albums. Now in 2019, Gilby is preparing to unleash his first new solo music in nearly two decades! An old school mash-up of Keef, Johnny Thunders, and B.B. King, Gilby’s new album is full of fist-pumping rock ’n’ roll songs with fat choruses, bluesy licks and trademark solos! It’s Classic rock, a new version of what Gilby likes to do and that’s… LOUD GUITARS!
The album features drumming from legendary John Mellencamp and Chickenfoot sticksman Kenny Aronoff and Stephen Perkins from Jane’s Addiction, Porno For Pyro & Infectious Grooves. The Gospel Truth will be released in the first half of 2019. More details coming very soon!
Gilby joins fellow GNR band mate, Dizzy Reed who was one of the first international signings to Golden Robot Records and released his solo album, Rock N Roll Ain't Easy to critical praise in early 2018.
*****
Gilby Clarke is now part of an international roster that includes such iconic artists as, Guns ’N' Roses keyboardist Dizzy Reed, Puddle Of Mudd, Little Caesar, Raveneye, The Lazys and the all star A New Revenge which features Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens, Keri Kelli, Rudy Sarzo and James Kottak
Plus, Golden Robot Records boasts an incredible line up of Aussie acts, led by Rose Tattoo, The Superjesus, Misex and featuring Steve Kilbey, Palace Of The King, Jailbirds, Fyre Byrd, The Kids, Destrends, Flickertail and many more. Watch out for more incredible names who will be joining GRR’s international roster in the near future!
Golden Robot Records now own four record labels and have teams in every major market in the world: Sydney, Los Angeles, New York, Hamburg, London, Tokyo and Auckland. With globally experienced music industry veterans heading up key roles in A&R, Management, Marketing and Publicity, Golden Robot Records are able to give their roster maximum exposure and support.
Singer-songwriter Matthew Shad has just released the single 'Keep Holding On'. This is Matthew's first release since 2015's 'Heart Forgive Me' which was mixed by Kenny Scott (Swirl 360). It is available to stream or download at iTunes, AppleMusic, Spotify, Amazon Music and all other major digital outlets. You can hear the song on YouTube here:ww.youtube.com/watch?v=FhpXJojrjs4
From Matthew:
'Dear Friends of MelodicRock.com,
This might be a different type of press release, but I felt strongly about introducing myself to most of you for the first time in my own words. Since I first gained access to the internet, I became a fan of Andrew and MelodicRock.com. Like many of you, it became my morning paper. I love the genre of Melodic Rock so very much and am proud to share the release of my new song, 'Keep Holding On' with you. In this troubled world, I strongly felt a positive and uplifting anthem of a song was appropriate.
And now, a little about myself:
- I'm the guy that had the albums 'New Jersey' and 'Hysteria' on cassette in my car with all the text worn off from playing them so much.
- I'm the guy who makes singer-songwriter playlists of Mitch Malloy, Paul Gilbert, John Waite, Steve Lukather, Sammy Hagar, Jani Lane, Jude Cole, Mike Tramp, Zakk Wylde, Kip Winger and Butch Walker.
- I'm the guy that teaches his guitar students 'The Answer' from Richie Sambora and 'Rest In Peace' from Extreme.
- I'm the guy who thinks 'Kingdom Of Desire' by Toto and 'Talk' by Yes are masterpieces.
- I'm the guy who is still inspired by Neal Schon's solo in 'Still They Ride', Mark Kendall's solo in 'House Of Broken Love', Kee Marcello's solo in 'Superstitious' and pretty much anything Dann Huff recorded with Giant!
- I'm the guy who stood in the ticket line at 2:00 am for Steve Perry's 'For The Love Of Strange Medicine' Tour (2nd Row)!
- I'm the guy who pre-orders every House of Lords album. I'm also the guy who was lucky enough to see House of Lords open for Nelson (Ken Mary and Bobby Rock in the same night... Doug Aldrich and Bret Garsed in the same night... Vocals from Gunnar, Matthew and James Christian in the same night... Incredible).
- I'm the guy who thinks Mr. Big and Dream Theater must be immortal and been practicing for a million years (That's the only explanation).
- I'm the guy stood in the audience at an acoustic Shaw/Blades concert and knew after the first song that it was going to be one of the best night's ever.
- I'm the guy who knows you can always count on Night Ranger to put on the best rock show in town.
- I'm the guy who heard Vito Bratta's solo for 'Wait' and bought 'Pride' the next day.
- I'm the guy who cherishes albums from RTZ, Hardline, Tyketto, attraction 65, Blue Murder, Open Skyz, The Storm, Echo Jet, Jellyfish, Blue Tears and a thousand others.
Hopefully, you can hear all of that in this song. "Keep Holding On" feels like the first song I've recorded in the longest time that sounds like the music I listen to. Hopefully, you can hear the Boston, Bon Jovi, Journey and Def Leppard loud and clear. I'm extremely proud of this song and excited about releasing more music in the future. Please follow my social media listed below and send me a message letting me know what you think. I hope to see you out there on the road!
"I tip my hat to every original artist out there. It is an uphill battle from the get go and most let go early on in the game, but there are those who "Keep Holding On". Matthew Shad is one of those who do just do that." - Mike Tramp
About Matthew Shad:
Matthew studied at Berklee College of Music with the likes of Livingston Taylor and Jon Finn. He has gone from the studios at Berklee to recording at Full Sail, Gloria Estefan"s Crescent Moon Studios and Criteria"s The Hit Factory. In the 90's his band SHAD recorded a self-titled hard rock album and opened for acts such as Survivor and Bad Company. In 2010, he changed directions with the pop-rock group Stirling Road, releasing a an album and two singles including "Without You" which was co-written and produced by Swirl 360's Kenny Scott. His most cherished musical memory was in 2000 when he performed "Wanted Dead Or Alive" with recent Rock 'N Roll Hall Of Fame inductees, Bon Jovi, at a rehearsal for VH-1's Storytellers. His new single, "Keep Holding On" is out now!
Hi, all - hope you’re all off to a great start so far in 2019.
After much consideration, the time has come to make a few announcements.
To begin: there are many reasons for this but, above all else, because of the demands of my job I’m scaling back most of my music and audio production work. Now more than ever my position is a 24/7 requirement and those responsibilities prevent me from committing to multiple projects/clients without compromising enjoyment of life with my wife, family and friends. This wasn’t a quick decision to arrive at, but it’s the right one when the return on investment on every level for the time and energy I devote to the music business is no longer worth being at the expense of the parts of my life that are priority.
This is the largest of several factors which will unfortunately result in the Adriangale album that was in progress not being completed. I deeply regret this for all of those who were looking forward to it. Rest assured, this wasn’t my intent - especially since I’ve put very substantial work into ten great songs. Having said that, and my job withstanding, I can’t alter other circumstances beyond my control. I can only take appropriate action and, aside from the band’s catalogue staying up on digital media outlets, barring extraordinary developments it’s time to close the book on Adriangale.
I wish to be clear that this isn’t a reflection on Andrew McNeice or Melodicrock Records. Andrew has been a great and unparalleled friend since just about the beginning of my music work. He’s unquestionably one of the most upstanding, loyal and honorable people I’ve ever met. Our friendship is stronger than ever and if/when I’m able to commit to another project with the new songs I’ve put a ton of hard work into, his is still the label that will release it far as I’m concerned.
Regarding the questions about the Best of Adriangale: that collection was promised by my former label, I hope they will honor their commitment for the sake of those who still may be waiting for it.
I’m grateful for all of the things that I have done with my music and even more appreciative for the many amazing people I have met on account of my endeavors.
Thanks for reading - and once again wishing you all the best.
MRR’s Andrew McNeice responds:
Vic Rivera is without question, one of the most genuine and sweetest guys in this business and I’m proud to call him a friend for so many years.
With Adriangale, Vic delivered some of my favourite musical moments of the last decade and a half. With their relationship with their original label over, I was only too happy wot welcome Vic, Jamie and the guys to MRR.
I am disappointed to have to pass on this news, more for selfish reasons, I wanted new music from one of my favourite acts. But I totally respect Vic’s decision and know all too well the pressures of conflicting schedules and the lack of hours in the day to deal with everything life throws at you.
The work Vic has put in over the last year on this album won’t go to waste. No sir! When time permits these wonderful songs will see the light of day in one form or another.
For now, MRR wishes Vic nothing but love and Jamie and his unmistakable voice will pop up somewhere soon no doubt.
LEVERAGE RETURN WITH HIGHLY ANTICIPATED FIFTH ALBUM, “DETERMINUS”
OUT ON FRONTIERS MUSIC SRL ON APRIL 26 | FIRST SINGLE & VIDEO “BURN LOVE BURN” OUT NOW
Finnish heavy rockers Leverage finally put an end to their 10 year hiatus between studio albums with the announcement of the release of their highly anticipated new album, “Determinus”. Preceded by the release of the 2018 (digital only) EP “The Devil’s Turn”, Leverage are set to retake their place in the standings of the heavy metal/hard rock community with this new album. First single and video, "Burn Love Burn" is out today and you can see/hear it below:
Leverage is not a power metal band, nor an AOR band, and definitely not a throwback to the 80’s band. Leverage don’t fall into an easy category. Leverage developed their own style of heavy rock in the 2000’s. For the band, it has always been about making and playing music with all of their hearts and souls while having a blast doing it. Their sonic stamp says “Leverage”. That’s it. “The new album is the same but different,” says guitarist and founder Tuomas Heikkinen. “This is the way I write. It is heavy rock and draws from a variety of influences, mine or the other members. I used to make demos that had every bass, drum and keyboard note MIDI programmed to detail and then just asked the guys to reproduce that exactly, but now I only underline the passages that I feel are essential and let them have a go at expressing themselves as musicians. And just as importantly, I always try to hear the vocalist in my head when writing. Pekka and Kimmo are two different singers, that definitely guides the process.”
Leverage landed on the scene in 2006 with the independent release of their debut album, “Tides”. With their blend of symphonic and melodic hard rock combined with some progressive metal twists, Leverage created a buzz on the scene and were signed by Frontiers for the release of their second album, “Blind Fire” in 2008. Spinefarm/Universal picked the band up for their next album, “Circus Colossus” (2009), but the band became inactive not too long after. “People that have heard the music say that it definitely has the Leverage vibe, but also covers new ground. It has variety, ranging from pretty damn heavy to all kinds of far ends at times. This album sounds like a band playing and there’s movement where we didn’t use to have it. There’s less overdubs, not too many huge hired choirs, very little MIDI orchestrations and less tracks all together,” continues Heikkinen.
"Determinus" also introduces their amazing new singer, Kimmo Blom (Urban Tale, Raskasta Joulua) and a new guitar player, Mikko Salovaara. “Kimmo is a phenomenal and very versatile singer. He draws pictures in front of you the way he sings,” concludes Tuomas. "He has a huge presence, both seen and heard and is not the most typical vocalist in this scene. He approaches each song as a short story and really throws himself in there. Mikko is a monster guitar player with a background of very heavy and complex metal with a band called Kiuas. It was like "I am going to get him or Leverage will have only one guitar". I am happy he wanted to join the band. I have been blessed to get to work with outstanding guitar players in Leverage, first with Torsti and now with Mikko.”
"I’m really excited about all this, getting back to making Leverage music with a great group of people, old and new. And getting it out through a solid label to the fans," concludes Tuomas.
“DeterminUs” promises to be one of the highlights of the melodic metal genre in 2019.
Formed in Kuopio, Finland by brothers Aarni & Jaakko Metsäpelto while they were still in junior high, Block Buster spent their teenage years honing their sound and identity. While still in the midst of not being of legal age to play clubs and instead tearing it up at local backyard and basement parties to their sixteen - seventeen year old friends, the band suddenly found themselves being chosen to open for Bon Jovi at Helsinki Olympic Stadium. Since then, Block Buster have been honing their craft playing gigs at festivals and those clubs they are now legally allowed to enter, while also releasing an EP and two singles which have created a nice buzz in the Finnish rock scene and drew the interest of Frontiers.
"All of us in Block Buster feel totally energized to have signed a worldwide deal with one of the truest ROCK labels on the planet, Frontiers Music. It's taken years of hard work to have built up a great team around the band and now we have all the right machinery behind us to push us to the next level. Our first album, "Losing Gravity" will be released on Frontiers worldwide in 2019 and it is going to be a great year for Block Buster. Please join us on the next stage of our rock 'n roll journey!"
Inspired by the sounds of classic hard rock pioneers while adding a modern “retro” approach, Block Buster are ready to break out from their Nordic homeland on to the world stage.
Legendary singer Lance King, original voice behind PYRAMAZE, AVIAN, BALANCE OF POWER and GEMINI is releasing his second solo album 'ReProgram' in the style of heavy metal that he has properly labeled as 'Celestial Metal', MARCH 29 is the new release date on Nightmare Records.
We are divided and torn by what we want to do and what we think we should to do. This is the ultimate struggle that every human being deals with during their lifetime. We all have the choice to take the road of conformity and compliance, or we can decide to live life to the fullest. We are often held back from our potential because of the many rules handed down to us, indoctrinated ideals of education, sexuality, gender, family, religion, and career. People are usually tied to these rules on a deep level that often make no sense to them, but they prefer the comfort of feeling like they belong, to the often-lonely freedom of being the ones who live on their own terms. This is the internal and external struggle that Lance King wants to showcase with his music.
"ReProgram' is digitally available on iTunes and Amazon today Feb 1st, Pre-order and get an early "gratis track!"
There is a constant dissonance in our lives, and ReProgram looks to find harmony in the dissonant world that we have created. An album for the seekers of truth, for the ones who carry the fire and never let it die. Think of ReProgram as fuel for the restless soul that constantly pounds within your chest. An aural expression infused in metal and forged out of the promise of freedom. That wild and unapologetic inner-self that never fails to remind you of the passion, the adventure and the journey of life. That human being that wants to break away from the mindless zombie herds following the MEME culture.
An album for the Jedi, for the spiritually charged, for the ones that never fade away. Metal that supercharges the mind and encourages the body.
“The single most powerful thing you can do, is unlearn the limiting beliefs you have accepted as truths in your youth. This frees you from the chains that bind, the chains of the subconscious mind.” -- Lance King
Produced by Lance King & Jacob Hansen (Volbeat, Evergrey, Epica, Amaranthe)
Swedish hard rockers Rough Rockers announce the release of their brand new EP, ‘Smoke And Mirrors’ via Dutch label RVPrecords on April 29. Originally conceived as a songwriter/recording project in 2012 by vocalist/bassist Peter Ljungberg and guitarist Magnus Hällström, the group finally secured a permanent line-up with the recruitment of Australian guitarist Joe Matera and Swedish drummer Roger Eriksson in 2018. The band signed to Dutch record label RVPrecords in late 2018.
Matera – a solo recording artist in his own right – was invited to join the band after both he and the band undertook support slots for NWOBHM band Weapon UK in Sweden in 2017. “I’m looking forward to rocking out with the band” says Matera, “and bringing our unique brand of guitar driven rock to audiences across Europe”.
Adds Ljungberg, “I`m so pleased with the way we have put the songs together. We’ve captured the energy of the band in the essence of the songs, and have created a powerful sound of solid catchy rock `n` roll”.
The new EP features a special appearance by legendary singer Graham Bonnet (Rainbow, Alcatrazz, Michael Schenker Group) who guests on lead vocals on the track, “Unleash The Beast”, Twan Bakker, CEO of RVPrecords said, “I got to know the Swedish Rough Rockers through Joe. Their sound, combined with the personal connection to the ever hard working Matera and respected professional Ljungberg convinced me to sign these guys.”
The EP - was mixed by Tomas Skogsberg (Backyard Babies, Entombed) -showcases the band’s diverse songwriting craft and tough twin guitar sound, with a knack for both sparking tasteful rock tunes and elegant ballads, all underscored by a catchy melodicism.
‘Smoke And Mirrors’ will be released both on CD and as a special limited 12” RED vinyl. The band will tour in support of the new release in May.
EVERGREY's stunning new studio album, 'The Atlantic' is out now on AFM Records.
EVERGREY release their official video for 'End Of Silence' (directed by Patrick Ullaeus).
The band state: "Here's end End of Silence accompanied by live clips from this weekends show in Gothenburg! This is of course courtesy of the King Patrick Ullaeus and rEvolver who made a super great work showcasing us live!"
Chania Rock Festival, is one of the most important, louder and hotter metal festivals of Southern Europe and takes place in the beautiful island of Crete, in Chania, on the 5th and 6th of July 2019.
The festival exists since 2002 and many great metal bands have played so far, such as Blind Guardian (GER), Sabaton (SWE), Kreator (GER), Paradise Lost (UK), D-A-D (DEN), Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons (UK), W.A.S.P. (USA) and many more.
This year’s billing, includes some more great bands. Demons & Wizards, the brainchild of Hansi Kursch (Blind Guardian) and Jon Schaffer (Iced Earth), Tarja, RottingChrist, Uli Jon Roth and Carthagods plus more acts to be announced. All these, will take place in the most picturesque landmark of the city of Chania, an ancient fortress by the old harbor, San Salvatore.
Get ready to arrange your summer holidays in one of the most beautiful islands of the Mediterranean and combine it with two days full of heavy metal music. Enjoy the Cretan hospitality, drink raki, swim in some of the most extraordinary beaches on earth, taste famous local food and watch your favorite metal bands perform live in an unforgettable venue in the center of the city. A combination that cannot be missed.
Escape Music is pleased to announce the return of Swiss Progressive Melodic Metal Band Appearance of Nothing with their forth album "In Times Of Darkness"
Appearance of Nothing - In Times Of Darknesss
Release Date: 22 March 2019
Catalogue No: ESM328
Track Listing:
01 Inside these Walls 06:32
02 The Black Sea 09:26
03 Storm 04:25
04 Erase 07:00
05 Deception 07:01
06 Disaster (Sweetest Enemy) 05:28
07 Lost 05:17
08 The Huntress 09:22
Appearance of Nothing is:
Omar Cuna - Vocals and Bass
Marc Petralito - Piano, Hammond, Synth
Ronnie Wolf - Drums
Manuel Meinen - Guitars
Albert Ibrahimaj - Guitars
Guest appearances:
Anna Murphy - Backing Vocals & Lead Vocals on ‘Storm’ & Lost’
Tina Guo - Cello on ‘The Black Sea’ & ‘Deception’
Christian Älvestam - Growls
Devon Graves - Vocals on ‘Disaster’
Drums, Vocals, Piano & Hammond recorded by Anna Murphy at Soundfarm Studios
Guitars & Bass recorded by Tommy Vetterli at New Sound Studio
Acoustic guitars recorded at Music’s Cool Studios Freiburg
Mixed by Anna Murphy
Mastered by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios
Precision and prog metal: the two go hand in hand - esppecially in Switzerland, home to clockworks and quality craftsmanship.
True to that national spirit, Appearance Of Nothing are stepping right into the tradition of outstanding and unique metal, Made In Switzerland (ever heard of Coroner, Eluveitie, or perhaps Celtic Frost?). Honing their skills together since 2004, the band around founding members Marc Petralito (piano, hammond, synths) and Omar Cuna (bass & vocals), along with shredders Manuel Meinen & Albert Ibrahimaj and drummer Ronnie Wolf, have always felt true to Prog with a capital letter - think Opeth, Dream Theater,, or Symphony X.
With their new single ‘Storm’ they mark an explosive return after parting ways with their former lead singer in 2017. Keys blazing, the creative driving force Marc proudly places his giant synth walls right where they should be: front and center. The newest family members Albert Ibrahimaj (two-time winner of a prestigious Berklee College of Music scholarship) and Manuel Meinen - both acclaimed guitar teachers - have found themselves right at home, driving the band’s sound forward along with Ronnie, who has been making a name for himself for over 30 years ever since his work on the legendary 1985 album ‘Young Blood’ by Killer. Omar, finally, having already made the unusual transition from dancer to bass player early in his career, showcases how he inherited the position of main vocalist and frontman without skipping a note on his bass.
A new album has been completed as well, although the band remain shrouded regarding a potential release date. They can, however, announce some explosive details already: the record has been recorded and produced with none other than the undisputed queen of Swiss metal, Anna Murphy (Cellar Darling, ex-Eluveitie) at Soundfarm Studios, has been mastered by Jens Bogren (Opeth, Leprous, Symphony X & more), and features illustrious guest performers including Anna Murphy herself, cello virtuoso Tina Guo (Hans Zimmer, ‘Wonder Woman’ soundtrack), Devon Graves of the legendary Psychotic Waltz, and former Scar Symmetry vocalist Christian Älvestam. Last, but not least, Appearance of Nothing’s new guitar sound was created at Swiss guitar legend Tommy Vetterli’s New Sound Studio.
Appearance of Nothing are getting ready to take part in the European stages in 2019,
Video for The Black Sea:
Tour dates so far:
02.03.2019 - Switzerland, Musigburg Aarburg
UK & Ireland
21.03.2019 - Sheffield Studio
22.03.2019 - North Wales, Hammerfest
23.03.2019 - Cardiff The Globe
24.03.2019 - Birmingham Hare & Hounds
26.03.2019 - Norwich The Waterfront Studio
27.03.2019 - Hull The Welly 2
28.03.2019 - Glasgow Audio
29.03.2019 - Dublin On The Rox
30.03.2019 - Manchester Academy 3
31.03.2019 - London Jazz Cafe Camden
20.04.2019 - Germany, Lörrach
31.08.2019 - Switzerland, Club Natters
21.09.2019 - Switzerland, Club Metbar Lenzburg
13.09.2019 - Italy, to_be_confirmed
14.09.2019 - Italy, to_be_confirmed
15.09.2019 - Italy, to_be_confirmed
More dates will be announced soon including Germany!
Trust Fund Baby Lyrics by Sammy Hagar; Music by Sammy Hagar, Jason Bonham, Ronnie Montrose.
Album release May 10th, 2019. The band will mount a large-scale tour of North America, in support of the new album, in the Spring of 2019. Full track listing and touring details to be announced Monday, Feb 4.
With the upcoming release of Space Between, the band harnesses the depth of their artistic experiences and seminal collaborative sound with Hagar's prolific writing vein to produce an album that builds and explodes, song after song, around the concepts of money, greed, enlightenment and truth. Formed in 2014, the acclaimed supergroup featuring Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Sammy Hagar and bassist Michael Anthony, drummer Jason Bonham and guitarist Vic Johnson, quickly established themselves as one of the most emphatic and exciting live acts on tour today, seamlessly ripping through career-spanning hits from Montrose, Van Halen, Sammy Hagar and The Waboritas and Led Zeppelin.
Lyrically and musically, the collection of songs on Space Between build from intimate and introspective eye-openers to heart-pumping anthems. The music draws on the bands' substantial careers independently and collaboratively; presenting a veteran band still at the peak of their game. Sammy Hagar & The Circle will release Space Between on May 10 via BMG. The band will mount a large-scale tour of North American, in support of the new album, in the Spring of 2019. Space Between tour itinerary, album track listing and more will be revealed beginning February 4.
BMG signed a worldwide label deal with Sammy Hagar & The Circle for the new album, Space Between, and will also include select Hagar catalog titles.
‘DANGER ZONE’ WAS a particularly gutsy album that moved the guitarist towards a fuller hard rock sound boasting lashings of attack and excitement. It was a formidable album that set the red rocker up for major career advancement. Produced by British engineer Geoff Workman, fresh from recording Journey’s breakthrough album ‘Infinity’, it wasn’t the only Journey connection as both vocalist Steve Perry and guitarist Neal Schon made guest appearances helping to showcase a thoroughly impressive collection of tracks and a production that propelled Hagar’s stature ever upwards. Originally issued in 1980, the record contained ten golden hard rock nuggets enhancing his reputation as one of the most compelling and significant artists of the era.
SPECIAL DELUXE COLLECTOR’S EDITION. Fully Remastered Audio, 16 page full colour booklet, 4,000 word essay, enhanced artwork with unpublished photos.
TRACK LISTING: 1. LOVE OR MONEY 2. 20TH CENTURY MAN 3. MILES FROM BOREDOM 4. MOMMY SAYS, DADDY SAYS 5. IN THE NIGHT (ENTERING THE DANGER ZONE) 6. THE ICEMAN 7. BAD REPUTATION 8. HEARTBEAT 9. RUN FOR YOUR LIFE 10. THE DANGER ZONE
STEVE JONES 'MERCY' CANDY363
WHEN THE SEX PISTOLS disintegrated in 1978 guitarist Steve Jones involved himself in a number of diverse projects. Relocating to the USA he commenced building a career as a solo artist. His debut solo album ‘Mercy’, issued in 1984, was a unique and somewhat surprising statement from a man who had previously been viewed as a maverick guitar hero. The album is built primarily around melodic rock songs that, by any other artist, may have been labelled AOR. Of course these tracks provide a solid foundation for Steve to unleash some blazing lead guitar, however, the emphasis is not on power chords but carefully executed solos, helping to support the melody rather than burying it beneath mountainous riffs.
SPECIAL DELUXE COLLECTOR’S EDITION. Fully Remastered Audio, 12 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork with unpublished photos.
TRACK LISTING: 1. MERCY 2. GIVE IT UP 3. THAT’S ENOUGH 4. RAINING IN MY HEART 5. WITH YOU OR WITHOUT YOU 6. PLEASURE AND PAIN 7. PRETTY BABY 8. DRUGS SUCK 9. THROUGH THE NIGHT 10. LOVE LETTERS
STEVE JONES 'FIRE AND GASOLINE' CANDY364
THERE ARE FEW guitarists who have created as big an impact on rock music as Steve Jones. As one of the founding members of the Sex Pistols it was Jones who outlined the band’s sound, with his mountainous guitar riffs and unbridled energy pushing the material way beyond the red zone. ‘Fire And Gasoline’ really saw his creative juices flow. It was a tough and direct display of fire-power, bringing Jones’ guitar prowess to the fore. Produced by British studio wizard Mark Dearnley (AC/DC, Motorhead) with help from The CULT’s Ian Astbury, it concentrates on red hot riffs and shout-it-out-loud songs. Look out for guest appearances, most notably from Billy Duffy and Axl Rose.
SPECIAL DELUXE COLLECTOR’S EDITION. Fully Remastered Audio, Bonus track, 12 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork with unpublished photos.
TRACK LISTING: 1. FREEDOM FIGHTER 2. WE’RE NOT SAINTS 3. GOD IN LOUISIANA 4. FIRE AND GASOLINE 5. TROUBLE MAKER 6. I DID U NO WRONG 7. GET READY 8. GIMME LOVE 9. WILD WHEELS 10. HOLD ON 11. LEAVE YOUR SHOES ON. BONUS TRACK: 12. SUFFRAGETTE CITY
Los Angeles, CA --- Today TOTO have released a brand new lyric video for "Devil's Tower." Taken from their definitive box set: All In via Legacy Recordings (a division of Sony Music).
“We originally recorded this track with Mike and Jeff Porcaro back in 1981 during the sessions for TOTO IV," Steve Lukather remarked. "We never recorded a lead vocal or had lyrics for this one, so Joseph finished it up for us recently."
The track is also available on all of the major streaming services as a stand alone single. TOTO begins a eight show run in Japan on February 14th in Hiroshima. The show in Toyko on February 20th at Budokan has already sold out.
TOTO will be busy in 2019. The band just returned from a standing room only run of Australia and New Zealand, and head to Japan and Indonesia in February. This spring in to the Summer, they’ll stage a long tour of Europe, combining top billing festival appearances and headline dates, after which they’ll bring their “An Evening With” show to North America this Fall. The 40 Trips Around The Sun tour is the band’s most extensive run in years with many more announcements to come.
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. Collectively TOTO has over a billion streams worldwide on all streaming services.
With over 40 years together and literally thousands of credits, including the biggest selling album of all time: Michael Jackson’s Thriller, and accolades to their names, TOTO remains one of the top selling touring 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. Their repertoire continues to be current via high profile usage on broadcast television. They are pop culture, and are one of the few 70’s bands that have endured the changing trends and styles to a career enjoy a multi-generational worldwide fan base.
TOTO – 2019 - 40 TRIPS AROUND THE SUN TOUR
2/14 Hiroshima, JP Bunka Gakuen HBG Hall
2/16 Kanazawa, JP Kanazawa Kagekiza
2/18 Fukoka, JP Fukuoka Shimin Kaikan
2/20 Tokyo, JP Budokan
2/21 Osaka, JP Osaka Castle Hall
2/23 Morioka-Shi, JP Morioka Iwate Kenmin Kaikan
2/25 Nagoya, JP Century Hall
2/27 Sendai, JP Sun Plaza
3/3 Jakarta, ID Java Jazz Festival
6/13 London, UK Live at Chelsea
6/15 Cork, IRL Live at the Marquee - Cork
6/18 Gavle, SE Gasklockorna
6/20 Oslo, NO OverOslo
6/21 Langesund, NO Wrightegaarden
6/22 Sarpsborg, NO Kulasparken
6/23 Aarhus, DK Ceres Arena
6/25 Sopot, PL Opera Lesna
6/27 Budapest, HU Budapest Arena
6/28 Klam Bei Grein, AT Clam Rock
6/29 Eisenstadt, AT Lovely Days
6/30 Berlin, DE Zitadelle Open Air
7/02 Munich, DE Tollwood Festival
7/03 Marostica, IT Piazza Degli Scacchi
7/04 Rome, IT Auditorium Cavea
7/05 Lucca, IT Piazza Napoleone
7/07 Albi, FR Pause Guitare
7/08 Cognac, FR Cognac Pubic Garden
7/10 Barcelona, SP L’Auditori del Forum
7/11 Nimes, FR Festival de Nimes
7/14 Gelsenkirchen, DE Gelnsenkirchen Amphitheater
7/16 Pratteln, CH Z7 Summer Nights Open Air
7/17 Fussen, DE Barockgarten
7/18 Salem, DE Schloss Open Air
7/20 Pori, FI Pori Jazz Festival
Additional appearances will be announced in the coming months…
Jimmy Kay from The Metal Voice (https://www.facebook.com/themetalvoice)spoke to former Ozzy Drummer Lee Kerslake in Anaheim California at this years annual Hall of Heavy Metal History Gala Jan 23 2019, where Kerslake was inducted and presented the two platinum Ozzy Discs.
When asked how he got to California to be inducted
"The phone rang about month and a half ago, it was Pat Guesaldo CEO of the Hall of Heavy Metal History and he said we would like to induct you into the Hall. Pat said we would love to have you in California for the Gala but I said I am on a pension and I can't afford it. Pat then said what if we take care of it for you . Then I said without sounding like a Deva I can't travel coach cause I have arthritis and bone cancer. Then Pat said no worries we are going to fly you first class. I nearly broke down and cried. I finally got to California, the flight took 10 hours and when I landed I said to myself, I MADE IT, I haven't done this for 22 years."
When asked about his reaction to finally receiving the platinum discs from Ozzy and Sharon and a personal letter
" We were filming me packing for California on my upcoming autobiography documentary and then my manager came in and said I have a surprise delivery for you and he brought in these two big boxes and they were the two platinum Ozzy discs, it was a crying moment. We finally buried the hatchet between the Osbournes and myself. I respect Sharon and I love Ozzy to bits. Ozzy also sent me back a beautiful letter hand written."
When asked about his current health situation
"The cancer has come back unfortunately, it has come back with a vengeance but I am not worried about it at the moment I am enjoying this moment and all the love. I am having a great time. My doctor told me before I left they will be putting me on a new drug and I am hopeful."
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