Friday, December 24, 2010

MelodicRock Records signs Riverdogs! Much loved melodic rock band Riverdogs (Rob Lamothe, Vivian Campbell, Nick Brophy & Marc Danzeisen) have signed to MelodicRock Records for an album to be released in the first half of 2011. This studio album is a long awaited return for the band, featuring unreleased music from the 'lost' 2003 sessions as well as perhaps a few new 2010 tunes :) The guys recently spent a week in Los Angeles together working up ideas and re-mixing and adding new parts to the originally recorded songs. Further details, comments from the guys and track titles coming up in the new year. But to say I'm excited about this release is a massive understatement! I've loved this band since the day the debut album came out. They should be mega-stars and perhaps with this release we can get the ball rolling again!   MERRY CHRISTMAS AND THANK YOU AGAIN!: I had the best intentions for a big week of updates - but I fell a little short. That's just the time of the year I guess. Crazy. I'd like to wish all readers a safe, happy, warm and (above all else) MELODIC Christmas! I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that recently donated to the MR Upgrade Drive - I'm humbled and thankful by the great response from so many. We have managed to raise over $4000, which is going straight back into the re-development of the site and ongoing running costs. 2011 is going to deliver one kick-ass MR! Anyway, there is still a few things to do which I will try and get online next week, but maybe not! I can guarantee that business as normal will resume in the new year, Monday January 10. Stay safe (and warm for my Northern friends) and see you soon. PS. Yes, you can expect the MelRock Awards in 2011!

 

 

Thursday, December 23, 2010

COLDSPELL COME OUT FOR SECOND STUDIO ALBUM: Escape Music will release Coldspell's new album Out From The Cold on February 25. The Band consists of: Niklas Swedentorp – Lead Vocals, Michael Larsson – Guitars and Backing Vocals, Anders "Kebbe" Lindmark – Bass, Perra Johanson – Drums, Matti Eklund – Keyboards and vocals, with a very special guest on Drums: Ian Haugland (Europe) Tracklist: 1-Heroes 2- Run For Your Life 3- One In A Million 4- Six Feet Under 5- Time 6- Save Our Souls 7- The King 8- Fate 9- Seven Wonders 10- Angel Eyes 11- Heading For Tomorrow 12- Out From The Cold. Coldspell are an exciting new band based in the north of Sweden. They were formed in 2005 by guitarist and songwriter Michael Larsson, who was previously with the band R.A.W., a band that recorded two albums in the 90's with members from Dalton and Kicken (Poodles) on drums. Together with four other experienced musicians the band Coldspell are ready to impress you with their own brand of hard rock. The band took the world by storm with their "Infinate Stargaze" release (ESM184), a recording that draws influences from a mixture of everything they grew up with from the groove of the 70's to the choruses and melodies of the 80's, mixed with the raw and naked excitement of the 90's, not forgetting the production expertise of the millennium. Coldspell's debut CD has already created a stir in rock circles, and they have a nice crisp guitar sound that can be compared to Gotthard, Malmsteen and Whitesnake but with melodies and a rich rhythm section that smacks of Treat and Dalton. Songs like "Keep on Believin'", "Eye of the Storm" and "Shot Down" won fans over time and time again. The album received stunning reviews all over the world and was on several album "toplists" for 2009 and album of the year at rockrealms.com. (category "heavy, hard and melodic rock"). Here we are two years later and a brand new release "Out from the Cold", once again mixed by Tommy Hansen in Denmark, Tommy of course having previously worked with Helloween, TNT, Pretty Maids, Jorn and Pagan's Mind. Well, why change a winning formula?! What we have here are 12 tracks of hard rock excellence that take the band to new heights. The core of Niklas Swedentorp on vocals, Michael Larssen on Guitars and vocals and Matti Eklund on keyboards and vocals remains the same, but in come new members Perra Johanson (ex Crawley, Lost Souls) on drums and Anders "kebbe" Lindmark joins on Bass (ex Dalton / RAW). What a way to start 2011! WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   xx SCORPIONS GUITARIST TALKS: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine did an exclusive face to face interview with The Scorpions guitarist, Rudolph Schenker. Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr : Have you ever thought about the day after… Rudolf Schenker: No, I don't make plans, they ruin the momentum. When I decided to go to Dakar, my manager said to me "Are you stupid? It's the toughest rally and we have a full tour ahead"! But I was feeling well, so I made the decision. One of my best ever… Rockpages.gr : A moment ago you said you have huge live footage. So are you thinking about releasing a DVD next year? Rudolf Schenker: "World Wide Live" is a DVD with bonus. We filmed so much and only half of that stuff is on the VHS! We will re-release it as a DVD. As I said, I have an outstanding idea for the last concert. I don't want to say anything now. It's gonna be very expensive and very special for Scorpions. Rockpages.gr : Will it be a lonely world without the super groups? Rudolf Schenker: Lonely world? Yes, of course! When the Stones go and AC/DC go and Van Halen… Maybe we do a show in America with Van Halen… Read The Full Interview On: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=4968&type=1&lang=EN.   March, 2011

 

 

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

TEN TO COME BACK WITH A VENGEANCE WITH THE NEW ALBUM STORMWARNING: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Ten's ninth all original studio album entitled Stormwarning on February 18, 2011 in Europe and February the 15th in North America. Turmoil is a word that could well describe what life has been like in the Ten camp over the past few years. Going through several line-up changes and a self imposed exiles from the scene, Ten for many seemed to be a name that wrote glorious pages in the darkest period of Melodic Hard Rock, failing to keep the flame alive when the momentum was raising again. Still, Ten singer and principal songwriter, Gary Hughes knew he had another ace up his sleeve and decided to play it safe. For the new album "Stormwarning" he wanted first to have the right line-up and he enlisted the services of Neil Fraser on lead guitars and Mark Sumner on bass, in addition to long-time members John Helliwell on guitar and Paul Hodson on keyboards. Then the masterful Mark Zonder (Fates Warning) guested to take care of all the drum duties and Gary made sure that none other than Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69 and producer of Angra, Place Vendome, Sunstorm, Edenbridge among others) would mix and produce the album. Finally he made contact with the original designer of the "Spellbound" and "Babylon" covers, the renowned Spanish fantasy artist Luis Royo, to recreate the perfect graphics for the new album. In the summer 2010 with all the groundwork done, Ten finally started the recording of "Stormwarning" an album that, like the name itself tells, is an inspiration for tales of glory, war, and death and of course love. Any rock fan who digs the sound that Rainbow carved out with "Difficult to Cure" or that Whitesnake brought to success with "1987" and that Gary Moore exalted with albums like "Final Frontier" or "Run For Cover" needs to have this record in their collection. And even for the well acquainted, Ten re-ignite memories of "The Name of The Rose" and "Spellbound". Stormwarning track listing includes: Endless Symphony; Centre Of My Universe; Kingdom Come; Book Of Secrets; Stormwarning; Invisible; Love Song; The Hourglass And The Landslide; Destiny; The Wave. The radio edit version of "Endless Symphony" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio   xx HEARTLAND SET TO TRAVEL THROUGH TIME: Escape Music will release a Heartland's Best Of titled Travelling Through Time is now a double CD set, featuring one new track and 6 unreleased tracks (previously 5) and still due for release January 21. Track List - Disc 1: Search Goes On / Too Sad To Cry / Whatever Gets You Through The Night / A Leap In The Dark / City Of Lights / Voodoo Eyes / Wide Open / Castles In The Sand / The Fall / These Are The Days / Magazine / A Man I'll Never Be. Disc 2: Best Is Yet To Come / Where Ever You Want Me / Elena / Stranger In This City / Eyes Wide Open / Where The Pieces Fall / I Believe / Way Of The Buffalo / One Love / The Man In The Iron Mask / Staring Down The Gun / I Count The Days / Long Long Way From Home. The releases: Heartland (1991 A&M) / Wide Open (Escape Music 1999) / III (Escape 1995) / Bridge of Fools (Escape 1997) / Miracles by Design (Escape 1998) / When Angels Call (Escape 1999) / As It Comes (Escape 2000) / Communication Down (Escape 2002) / Move On (Escape 2005) / Mind Your Head (Escape 2007). The Players: Chris Ousey – All Vocals / Steve Morris – Guitars, Bass & Keyboards, Steve Gibson - Drums, Steve Millington - Keyboards. Plus many many more Guests musicians! In the meantime the 2CD set "Travelling Through Time" is an enjoyable way to be reminded of how great they are, with tracks old and new and something you may just never have heard before….this is a milestone achievement from both Escape Music and Heartland, here's to the future of a great working relationship that has stood the test of time. WebLinks: www.Escape-Music.com.   NEW SINGER LINED UP FOR LILLIAN AXE: News direct from Lillian Axe: "Dear Axe Fans, Lillian Axe is alive and well! We know we have been away for a awhile. We now have narrowed our search for a new singer down to two candidates and we will be announcing our new singer in January. We, along with our manager took our time going through numerous submissions and auditions to find the right man for the job and we are almost there. Please be patient and we know you will not be disappointed. We just wanted to make sure we have the right singer to help move Lillian Axe forward and to continue to make great music. We are going to start 2011 with a full throttle assault. We are going to record a new song with our new singer that will be available for download so everyone can hear some new Lillian Axe! Then we will be hitting the road to tour and finally support Deep Red Shadows with a new set list and stage production with the same Lillian Axe intensity that will blow your minds. The new Cuba Gooding Jr. movie, "The Hit List" will finally be released in March and features the single "47 Ways To Die" as the main song in the movie. The entire Lillian Axe organization would like to wish everyone "happy holidays" and a "happy and healthy new year." 2011 is going to be a special time for Lillian Axe. We love you all, ~ Steve, Sam, Eric & Ken."

 

 

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

PRIMAL FEAR SINGER TO RELEASE HIS SELF TITLED SOLO DEBUT: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Scheepers solo debut album on February 18th in Europe and February 15th in North America. Ralf Scheepers has built himself quite a reputation for being one of the finest German Heavy Metal singers. With a career spanning three decades (he debuted with Tyran' Pace's "Eye to Eye" album in 1983), Scheepers sung on true Power Metal manifesto releases such as Gamma Ray's first three albums, before starting Primal Fear in 1997, with Mat Sinner. His voice is high-pitched and tenor-esque and his abilities were often compared to some of the finest Hard Rock and Heavy Metal singers ever (from Rob Halford to Ronnie James Dio and Ian Gillan). Both Helloween and Judas Priest considered him as their possible next lead singer. Over the years Ralf wrote and collected a few tracks that did not fit exactly in the Primal Fear concept. As often happens, he had just been waiting for the right chance to present itself and that happened when himself, his buddy Mat Sinner and Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino sat together and discussed plans for the future in… 2007! Over three years later and the results are finally here and in Scheepers' words "I'm really proud of the result!" Ralf Scheepers' artistic intention was to please the existing Primal Fear fan base, but he also wanted to add some surprises and include as much variation as he could in the recording. So he went ahead and covered one of his own favourite - but untypical Judas Priest songs "Before the Dawn" and for the first time, Ralf played all instruments on a song, except the fantastic guitar solos added by Victor Smolski (Rage). "Compassion" is another special track with a very positive vibe, recorded only with acoustic instruments. Two of the songs were composed with former Primal Fear guitarist Stefan Leibing, while Gamma Ray's Kai Hansen added guitar on "The Pain Of The Accused". Halford's Metal Mike played lead-guitar on the album opener "Locked In The Dungeon". One more highlight is the vocal duet with Tim "Ripper" Owens on "Remission Of Sin". Additional guest appearances include Sander Gommans (ex After Forever), Snowy Shaw (King Diamond, Therion) and Scheepers Primal Fear band mates Magnus Karlsson, Alex Beyrodt & Mat Sinner! The album was mixed and mastered by Achim Koehler and produced by Mat Sinner. Scheepers final track listing includes: Locked in the Dungeon; Remission of Sin; Cyberfreak; The Fall; Doomsday; Saints of The Rock; Before the Dawn; Back on the Track; Dynasty; The Pain of the Accused; Play with the Fire; Compassion. The song "Remission of Sin" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Weblinks: www.myspace.com/rs05 / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords. Musicians: Ralf Scheepers: Lead & Backing Vocals; Acoustic Guitar; Keyboards; FX Sounds; Tim "Ripper" Owens: Lead Vocals on "Remission of Sin"; Magnus Karlsson: Lead Guitars; Guitars; Banjo; Accordion; Keyboards; Sander Gommans: Lead Guitar, Guitars; Mike Chlasciak, Alex Beyrodt; Kai Hansen; Victor Smolski: Lead Guitars; Mat Sinner: Bass, Keyboards; Snowy Shaw: Drums.   xx TRINITY BECKONS FOR EDEN'S CURSE: Multinational Melodic Metallers Eden's Curse have completed the recording of their brand new, and third, studio album Trinity. The album is now in the final stages of the mixing process with long term Producer, and bassist of Pink Cream 69 and Unisonic, Dennis Ward (Angra/Allen & Lande/Silent Force/Krokus) and will be released by Spiritual Beast (Japan) on 16th March 2011 and by AFM Records (Europe) and Metal Mayhem (USA) on 18th March 2011. The band recorded fourteen songs in total, which includes two cover versions. Details of the tracklisting, artwork and news on some very famous guests will be released in early 2011. For more details, visit the Official website: www.EdensCurse.com. SPINEFARM RECORDS / FONTANA TO RELEASE BLACKMORE'S NIGHT'S 'AUTUMN SKY' IN THE US JANUARY 18: Blackmore's Night, the 'fantasy' inspired folk rock band formed by legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore and his wife Candice Night, will release their newest album Autumn Sky on January 18, 2011 in the USA through Spinefarm Records / Fontana. 12/17/2010 – New Yorkk - With a career spanning nearly two decades, the band of minstrels has gained cross over success all over the world with its new genre of 'Ren and Rock' music. The lyrics, written by award winning Singer/Songwriter Candice Night, are inspired by nature and the myths and fairy tales they encounter on their international travels. The melodies, composed and arranged by Grammy nominated Ritchie Blackmore, encompass musical structure and the essence of melodies from the early 1600s. And then they are 'Blackmore-ized' to become the beloved melodies of today! Blackmore's Night's last album, "Secret Voyage", debuted at #1 on the Billboard New Age Chart and held that spot for four consecutive weeks! All of their previous albums have earned the band high chart positions and many gold records and awards all over the world. In addition to being known from their unique sound which combines traditional as well as modern day instruments (including electric and acoustic guitars, keyboards, violins, shawms, chanters etc), and Candice's enchanting lyrics and vocals, they are also known for their fabulous live shows, many of which have been performed at castles and other exceptional venues that add to the mystique and warmth of their performance. Blackmore's Night has appeared nationwide on PBS and Discovery channel specials, and has been awarded the Best Album of the Year and Best Vocal Album of the year by NPR New Age Reporter for their past 7 studio CDs. "Autumn Sky" brings us 15 new Blackmore's Night songs, full of emotion with a touch of past times and magical atmospheres. From the glorious wanderlust-feelings of "Highland" all the way to the sweetness of "Strawberry Girl" and the upbeat "Journeyman", the album is again a powerful proof of the versatility of Ritchie Blackmore and Candice Night's repertoire and the talents of the seven piece Blackmore's Night Band. Recorded during Candice's pregnancy, Candice and Ritchie have dedicated the "Autumn Sky" album to their newly born daughter Autumn Esmerelda Blackmore. WebLinks: www.blackmoresnight.com / www.candicenight.com / www.candice-night.com / www.spinefarmrecordsuk.com.   FACTORY OF DREAMS PREPARES MELOTRONICAL RELEASE: The 3rd album from Factory of Dreams is nearly complete and will be available for pre-order early January 2011 through Progrock Records. A short promo presenting the new album is available at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0E1gh5SE8w. Melotronical is a conceptual CD, revolving around the evolution of an electronic Molecule into a living breathing Entity. This entity, experiences several stages of life, goes through all emotions, love, hate, fear, happiness... The track list is arranged according to this evolution, and one can have a feel of each stage just by reading each song title, listening to the songs and lyrics. Melotronical's track listing goes as follows: 1- Enter Nucleon 2- Melotronical 3- A Taste Of Paradise 4- Protonic Stream 5- Into Oblivion 6- Obsessical 7- Back To Sleep 8- Whispering Eyes 9- Subatomic Tears 10-Dimension Crusher 11-Echoes From Earth 12-Something Calling Me 13-Reprogramming. "It's almost here after so much hard work on this new album! Melotronical is different, very special... Every track from this album has something unique, maybe related to the way the album was designed. The music pushes and goes far beyond the boundaries of the Electronic Progressive Metal genre. Early January everyone will be able to pre-order the album, watch the Official full Promo and listen to a longer preview. So, get ready to feel Melotronical with our brand new album. Wish you all a Happy Christmas and a Fantastic New year 2011!" - Hugo Flores. WebLinks: melotronical.com / www.myspace.com/projectcreation / www.reverbnation.com/factoryofdreams / www.youtube.com/projectcreation / twitter.com/factoryofdreams.   xx

 

 

Monday, December 20, 2010

JOHN WAITE ROUGH & TUMBLE - CUT BY CUT: Here is a terrific, lengthy Track By Track with John Waite on his new studio album Rough And Tumble - out January 21 via Frontiers Records, along with JW's new video Shadows Of Love: 'Rough & Tumble' was the first thing we cut for the album of the songs that were recorded in Los Angeles. I had brought the band together for a quick rehearsal in Santa Monica. We had a rough blueprint of the songs we were going to be recording from some pretty raw demos. The band was tuning up, and Luis played this great blues lick. Five minutes later, we had the basis of 'Rough And Tumble.' Bang! There it was! It was all done 'on the fly.' It felt like it really set the tone for the recording the next day. It sounds like the live album (In Real Time). It's the sound I hear in my head when I go in the studio. Live and raw! I based the song on an idea that a friend once told me. He was in the Russian Tea Room in New York with Keith Richards taking a leak, and Keith leaned and said, 'All we've got to do is stick together and everything is gonna be OK.' I carried that around with me for a couple of weeks thinking about it because it was such good news . such a good thing to say. Getting through the world if you're in love with somebody is like a precious thing. The world is going to throw stuff at you, and you gotta get through it somehow. You've got to stick together. 'Rough & Tumble,' even though it's open for interpretation, is really about surviving the stuff that life throws at you. 'Shadows of Love' was written in Brooklyn quite a while ago when I was just writing songs not knowing where my career would take me next. I thought maybe I'd just be a songwriter. I found out pretty much in those days that I couldn't really write for other people. I needed to write for myself, or I wasn't interested. This song had been a bootleg in Europe for a long time, and the record company over there had heard it. Serafino Perugino, the head of Frontiers Records, loved it, and I kept it in the back of my mind. I thought we could do an arrangement on this song that would bring it up to date. There is a song by New Order, the Manchester band, where the whole band stops and this guitar lick comes in at the top of this gate and it's like the hook of the song, and I thought, well, if we try something like that, we might bring it into this decade. The band pulled out all the stops and surprisingly enough, the thing morphed into this more modern piece of rock, which says a lot about melody. You can't keep a good song down. It worked. Nobody was more surprised than me. 'Evil' was written around the time that Michael Jackson passed away. Kyle Cook and I were sitting there in his writing room out in the country just playing the guitars. I played this bass lick, and he played like this Stones y kind of thing, and the whole thing took off. It sort of happened in spurts, and it took three days to get it. The rap in the middle was completely spontaneous. There was a small Fender amp, and we were recording on the same mic. Kyle would stick the mic in front of the amp and play his guitar. Then I'd take the same mic and sing some more lines into the song on it. In the end, he turned to me laughing and said, 'It's a one stop shop!' What you hear on the record is the demo. We tried taking it in the studio and re recording it, but we just couldn't capture the magic we had managed to get down on tape in Kyle's writing room. It was what it was. It was great the first time around. 'If You Ever Get Lonely' is about getting a phone call at night perhaps the love of your life that you sort of lost track of dials you by mistake or maybe she's out at a party and after a bottle of wine thinks she'll just say hello. It's one of those things where you pick up the phone and you stop breathing. It's about distance. It's about lives going on after they've been damaged. 'Skyward' was written about six years ago in L.A., and I had forgotten all about it. The original idea for this new release was to make a five song EP, but in early October, I got the phone call that the record company would like to have a complete album, so I was trying to fish around for songs that I might be able to record. I was looking off into space in Santa Monica wondering what the hell I was going to do when the phone rang. Jamie Houston, who I wrote 'Skyward' with, was on the other end of the line, and he said that someone wanted to record the song. I had forgotten all about it, but when Jamie brought it up, I had this vague recollection of the song. It started off as 'Skyway' . a song about a girl who had a deep drug problem 'there's a skyway in your eyes,' you know? It was deep, but we turned it around into a happier thing, and it became 'Skyward,' a song about walking on air. The original demo was very pop, but when we went in to record the song for the record, we just turned the band loose on it. We treated it more as a rock song, and it just exploded. It was one of those things that I didn't expect to happen. Just at the right time, it walked into my life. Again. 'Sweet Rhode Island Red' is a song I've wanted to cut since I was about 24. I heard it for the first time over at my brother's house. He had a live album of Ike and Tina Turner called What You See Is What You Get and it was just stormin'. I mean, I remember us just lying there on the floor playing that album a lot, especially through one Christmas. I'd go over there just to hear it. That song killed me. When I learned there was a need to cut more songs for the album, it was the first thing I thought about cutting. I thought if there was ever a time to try to cut something like this, the time is now. Tina wrote the song by herself. It shows you the profound talent that she has. Not only could she blaze through those songs and put her heart out in front of all those people that she sung to, but she could also write stuff like that. It just knocked me out. I think the track turned out great. The band really went for it. Tim Hogan plays some great machine gun bass throughout the song. One of my favorites on the album. Besides, my mum likes it! 'Love's Goin' Out of Style' was the second song I wrote with Kyle Cook. After we finished 'Better Off Gone,' I called him up and told him we need to be singing to grooves and asked if he could put one together. I went over the next day and he had put this thing together a bluesy, bouncing kind of groove that went into a chorus. We're in the one stop shop, you know, so I told him to give me the mic. I sang the entire first verse right into the top of the first chorus 'I've got the keys to the highway since you said goodbye' and all of it came out. Kyle was really impressed, and so was I. I just didn't expect that. We went back and re thought it and sang different stuff into the track but it was very spontaneous. Kyle and I started to realize while working on this song that we could actually write something together that was really going to be stunning. We started with 'Better Off Gone,' followed that up with this one, and then we wrote 'Evil,' so it was a very prolific period. 'Better Off Gone' was the first thing that Kyle Cook and I wrote. We met at a writing room in Nashville down on Music Row. A mutual friend of ours from Indiana had been saying for years that we should get together and write. He thought we would be great together. I finally agreed so we met up to try to knock around some ideas. We sat there on the couch sort of trying to get to know each other. It was kind of this nervous 'Hey, how you doin' man?' 'Great' TWANG (sound of guitar chord) 'Hey, look at the weather, it's really sunny' 'Yeah, great man' TWANG. And in the end, we just had these chords about driving. In my head, I was thinking about '24 Hours From Tulsa,' which is a Gene Pitney song . this great American highway song about just leaving. It's about a white Lincoln Continental. There's one I keep seeing. It's such a beautiful car. It sort of inspired the basis for the lyric. Further The Sky - That's a Gabe Dixon song. Beautiful song. Alison Krauss suggested it. I asked Alison if she had any songs sitting around that would be good for me that she could think of, like something by the Louvin Brothers or an obscure country song, and then I made my mind up not to go in any way acoustic, but this was something that she felt strongly about. The version that we heard was played on an electric piano. We took several stabs at cutting it. I rose the key from F to F sharp thinking that it would make it spikier, but it didn't. It fell completely. We cut it again the next day with the original arrangement still in a higher key and that didn't work either. In fact, when Alison listened down to it, she said it sounded like jazz and suggested I call Shane Fontayne, an old friend of mine. We've made a lot of music together. It just so happens Shane lived down the street from the studio where we were recording. I sent him a copy of the song from You Tube of Gabe playing the song during a live show at Grimey's in Nashville. I was talking to Shane about why we were having trouble with it, and he told me there were a lot of 7 chords in it, and that it felt a little bit high to him, so we decided to put it back in the key of F. Shane slept on it for a couple of days and came in and just played this beautiful guitar part to get us into the top of the song. By this time, we had Rodger Carter on drums and Tim Hogan from my band came back to play bass. It was a three piece band, and they played it completely live. It shows you how great Shane is, you know? We would have probably left that one alone, but we ended up taking the song somewhere else. 'Peace of Mind' is based on Herman Hesse's Steppenwolf. At the time I wrote this, I was trying to find a new way of writing songs . making them almost psychedelic but without being trippy. This was a story about a man going into a theatre in New York and the world turning inside out. All of these people who have influenced me are in there . Charlie Chaplin, Johnny Cash, Charles Baudelaire. It's about a night at the opera . about opening the gate and going through into a different reality. There's also a monologue over the top, which I haven't heard anybody do yet. It was a real trip. I wrote that with Mark Spiro. It still surprises me. 'Mr. Wonderful' was written in New York with Ivan Kral. He had just left Iggy Pop, and we had started to write songs for what was going to turn into my first solo album. A lot of it is Ivan. It's got a very cabaret feel based loosely on pre World War II Germany. It was meant to be about estrangement and living on the outside of things. It's also sort of paranoid. 'Hanging Tree' was written with Shane Fontayne. That song had been on a few bootlegs around Europe, and I'd always thought maybe it would be a great bonus track for a record. When Shane came in to play on 'Further The Sky,' I thought it would be great to do a song with him, and we had this one just sitting there. It's a Zen cowboy song about reincarnation, which is even more odd if you go back to 1875 and think about people leaving this world and coming back in as different people then. It's a song about a guy who's an outlaw being tracked down and lynched. At the moment he's lynched, he comes back into the world again.   POWER QUEST REVEAL TRACK LIST OF BLOOD ALLIANCE: UK based melodic power metal crew Power Quest have completed their new album "Blood Alliance" and are ready for an ambitious and busy 2011. Not only will the UK 6 piece have its 10 years anniversary coming up, but "Blood Alliance" will see the light of the day in early 2011. Firstly it is released in Japan on January 19th via Marquee/Avalon. The European release is expected towards the end of March, with the USA release in early April. Keyboardist and PQ founder Steve Williams had this to say, ahead of revealing the track list for the new record. "Well it has been a long time coming but finally the 5th PQ album is done and I don't think I have ever been so excited about releasing an album. All the guys have given 110% to this record and I'm proud of them all. Its without doubt the heaviest PQ album yet but without sacrificing the PQ melodic tradition. I just can't wait for you all to hear it!" Here is the official Blood Alliance track list and running order: 1. Battle Stations 2. Rising Anew 3. Glorious 4. Sacrifice 5. Survive 6. Better Days 7. Crunching the Numbers 8. Only in my Dreams 9. Blood Alliance 10. City of Lies 11. Time to Burn (Japanese bonus track). Initial industry feedback has been extremely positive and "Blood Alliance" is without doubt the heaviest and catchiest album PQ have recorded to date. With new front man Chity Somapala and a full new line-up this will be by far one of the most interesting album releases in 2011. The album artwork will be revealed on December 30th! Power Quest are confirmed to play HardRock Hell Ibiza in June 2011 and will confirm some more UK festival appearances shortly. Updates on touring will follow shortly. Stay tuned for more live shows to be announced and follow all the updates via Twitter, MySpace, Facebook and the official Power Quest website. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/powerquest / www.power-quest.co.uk. CRAZY LIXX CRASH THROUGH MADRID: MetalSymphony.com has uploaded photos of Crazy Lixx December 11, 2010 concert at Sala Ritmo y Compás in Madrid, Spain. Also available are pictures of support act Nagasaki and Jolly Joker. Check them out at this location: www.metalsymphony.com/galeria/thumbnails.php?album=303. Crazy Lixx's setlist was as follows: Rock and a hard Place, Lock up your Daughter, She´s Mine, Dr. Hollywood, Want It, Make ends Meet, Woodoo Woman, Blame it on Love, 21 Till I Die, Children of the Cross, Hell or high Water, Road to Babylon, My Medicine (R.O.C.K.), The witching Hour, Heroes are Forever. ROTOSOUND CONFIRM DUFF MCKAGAN, BILLY SHEEHAN AND RATT AT NAMM 2011: Metal Legend Duff McKagan of Guns & Roses / Velvet Revolver fame will be appearing on the Rotosound booth at Winter NAMM alongside fellow legendary bassist Billy Sheehan. Billy is regarded by many to have changed the way the bass guitar is played and has been voted best bass guitar player five times by Guitar Player Magazine readers. Duff, revered by many musicians all over the world for his unique bass skills has recently been recording with Jane's Addiction, Manic Street Preachers as well playing in the surprise one off reunion with fellow Guns & Roses members. Heavy metal stalwarts Ratt will also be making an appearance on the Rotosound stand. They have been touring extensively supporting the Scorpions this year, following the release of their first studio album in over a decade 'Infestation'. Robbie Crane will be joined by Warren DeMartini and Carlos Cavazo. Appearance Dates & Times: Duff McKagan Saturday 15th January 2011 1.00pm Billy Sheehan Saturday 15th January 2011 2.00pm Ratt: Robbie Crane, Warren DeMartini & Carlos Cavazo Saturday 15th January 2011 4.00pm For further information and to see the latest new products visit Rotosound Booth 5596, Hall B see: www.rotosound.com.

 

 

Friday, December 17, 2010

DONATION DRIVE UPDATE: I am very pleased to bring you an update on the site Donation Drive that's been happening all week. I'm thrilled to say that over $3000 has been raised so far, to pay for a full upgrade of the site and to help with ongoing running costs. It's both humbling and heartwarming to get the support of the community that reads and uses this site and gain so much positive feedback for what is done here. I want to thank everyone that has donated so far and others that have pledged support. You rule! Any extra money raised will help pay server costs - and allow me extra time to concentrate on building the new site instead of chasing income constantly. I've had my first lengthy call with the designer and I can promise a seriously kick-ass site beyond any boundaries currently in place. Stay tuned! And just to reiterate, those that donate (button on top of left side menu) will be lined up to beta-test the new site when ready and also be kept up to date with regular e-mail updates. Thanks again folks. A MULTIMEDIA PROJECT ON A GRAND SCALE: Reign of Kings is a collaborative group consisting of international musicians, artists and an author. The author, Shawn R. Key, has created an epic story, The Spirit Quest. The story is told to a rich musical score and is available via Audiobook as well as an eBook complete with elaborate illustrations. The Reign of Kings musicians have created an accompanying CD inspired by the story, The Spirit Quest. The musicians on this CD have sold several hundred thousand records in their previous, various collaborations. A project appropriate for all times of the year, this is holiday oriented and perfect for the winter season. The first release from the CD, Interstellar Christmas, is available on iTunes now. The Audiobook and the eBook, are also available on the Reign of Kings website right now. Additional e-releases will be made on iTunes, iBook and other electronic delivery sites throughout the 2010 holiday. A portion of all revenues from this project goes to various charities primarily focused on improving the lives of children. Reign of Kings wishes to thank everyone for their support. We hope to bring renewed spirit via our story and songs to the world and everyone can help us make a difference. Some of the proceeds from revenue goes to Toys for Tots and Soldier's Angels. The project is gaining some serious momentum and talks for a theatrical show are in the works already. Interstellar Christmas is the song getting airplay across the country now. CD features Robin Beck, James Christian (House of Lords), Bill Leverty (Firehouse), Pete Evik and more. Full details and links to purchase and listen are on the project website: www.reignofkings.com.   xx ROCK STARS UNITE FOR BENEFIT CONCERT FOR BASSIST PHIL KENNEMORE OF Y&T: A parade of Rockstars are coming together to support beloved bassist, Phil Kennemore, founding member of Northern California's legendary rockers Y&T, Kennemore was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer while on tour this last summer. Having recorded and toured the world relentlessly since 1974, Kennemore has dedicated his life to making millions of people happy with his music. Now, he needs your help. Due to the overwhelming medical bills, Y&T's lead singer and best mate, Dave Meniketti, started the "Phil Kennemore Fund" to help Phil with his bills. This New Year's concert is the ultimate fund-raiser for a friend who has made such a positive impact on the music scene. This concert is an all-star line up of many of Kennemore's friends from bands such as Queensryche, Dokken, Ratt, Black Sabbath, DIO, Alice Cooper, Testament, and Y&T all donating their time to perform on New Year's Eve. This is a must-see concert and is going to rock! The lineup for the all star extravaganza is as follows: · Geoff Tate (Queensryche) · Don Dokken (Dokken) · Bobby Blotzer (Ratt) · Vinny Appice (Dio, Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell) · Sean McNabb (Dokken, Montrose) · Loren Gold (Roger Daltrey) · Chuck Billy (Testament) · Paul Bostaph (Testament, Slayer) · Jimmy DeGrasso (Alice Cooper) · Joey Alves · Leonard Haze · Ron Keel · Greg Kihn ...and more (see www.YandTRocks.com for updates). The show will take place at the Avalon (777 Lawrence Expressway. Santa Clara, CA), a 1000+ capacity venue which Y&T has performed at several times on New Year's Eve over the past five years. The club, like the performers, has generously volunteered to donate 100% of the ticket proceeds directly to Phil. The doors open at 8:00PM. Tickets are $75. For further information, call the Avalon at 408.241.0777 or visit www.YandTRocks.com. BONZO: THE GROOVE REMAINS THE SAME: A DOUBLE ENCORE: Due to the overwhelming success and positive feedback from the audience and drummers at the first "Bonzo: The Groove Remains The Same" John Bonham tribute show on Zeptember 25th, 2010, Brian Tichy and Joe Sutton agreed to look into doing it again. The problem was; Brian Tichy would be on tour next year with Whitesnake for most of 2011 into 2012. The only way to go for it again was to have the show sooner than later. And while looking into this, two back to back dates came up! The drummers all agreed two shows are better than one! Most of the drummers are back as well! Event idea-man and Whitesnake drummer Brian Tichy said, "Hey, we all had a great night! It was a huge success and we wanted to do it again. The time and energy that was put into the show made it all the more easy to set back up and hit again! We have the Amber Vistalite drumkit and 3-ring-logo backdrop, so why let it collect dust! It's all about tributing to rock's greatest drummer, John Henry Bonham. That is a timeless endeavor! The communal spirit of the rehearsals and show bonded us and solidified the common reasons why we all chose drumming as a way of life. Yeah! Plus, Led Zeppelin is the best, there are lots of people that wanted to see it but couldn't, and there's never anything wrong with giving it up to John Bonham!" We'd also like to welcome our friends; fellow Bonzo freaks/ rhythmic badasses Charlie Benante (Anthrax), Xavier Muriel (Buckcherry), Jason Sutter (Foreigner, Chris Cornell) and John Tempesta (The Cult, White Zombie) to the festivities! Legendary disc jockey, KLOS's own Uncle Joe Benson is also back hosting both nights!" "Bonzo: The Groove Remains The Same: A Double Encore!" will take place on: Wednesday, January 12th, Key Club, West Hollywood, CA Tickets available at www.keyclub.com Thursday, January 13th, The Galaxy Theater, Anaheim, CA Tickets available at www.galaxytheatre.com Doors at 7pm, both shows. Drummers performing over the two nights include: Steven Adler: (Guns 'N Roses, Adler's Appetite), Carmine Appice: (Vanilla Fudge, Rod Stewart, Ozzy Osbourne), Vinny Appice: (Black Sabbath/ DIO/ Heaven And Hell), Kenny Aronoff: (John Cougar, Smashing Pumpkins), Frankie Banali: (Quiet Riot), Charlie Benante**: (Anthrax), Bobby Blotzer: (Ratt), Fred Coury: (Cinderella), Jimmy D'Anda: (Bulletboys), James Kottak: (Scorpions), Abe Laboriel: (Paul McCartney, Sting), Khurt Maier: (Salty Dog), Xavier Muriel**: (Buckcherry), Stephen Perkins*: (Jane's Addiction), Chris Slade: (AC/DC, The Firm), Chad Smith: (Chili Peppers, Chickenfoot), Jason Sutter*: (Foreigner, Chris Cornell), John Tempesta*: (White Zombie, The Cult, Testament), Brian Tichy: (Whitesnake, Foreigner, Billy Idol, Ozzy Osbourne), Joe Travers: (Zappa Plays Zappa, Duran Duran), Simon Wright: (AC/DC, Dio). *at Key Club **at Galaxy only The infamous house band The Moby Dicks will be back in action! Brent Woods/ gtr., Michael "Denim" Devin/ bass, Keith St. John/ vox and Stephen LeBlanc/ keys. Go to www.briantichy.com for all updates and info. CJ SNARE JOINS CHRISTMAS RUSH: LNJ alumni and Firehouse lead singer CJ Snare has just released a holiday single just in time for Christmas..... CJ wanted to pass this message on, "Hello everyone...its CJ Snare from FireHouse. My new Holiday Single has just been released. It has a world music feel and I am very excited for you all to hear it. Please check it out and happy holidays!!!" The link for this incredible Christmas song is: www.tunecore.com/music/cjsnare. In Liberty N' Justice news, you now can hear samples from there new EP at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4xKB3kotDE. TERJE EIDE ON TWITTER, MYSPACE, REVERBNATION AND YOUTUBE: Get short, timely messages from Terje Eide by following him on Twitter: www.twitter.com/terjeeideonline. And you're welcome to enjoy the music on MySpace, Reverbnation & YouTube: MELODIC BRIEFS: A cool EPK here from Mr. Mister, put together to promote the Pull release: www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-zZTxNH7LU. Larry Hoppen (Orleans) has a new solo project One of the Lucky Ones - physically available on CD in 2011, but available right now to download (by singles or the whole album) at: www.amazon.com and itunes.apple.com/us/album/one-of-the-lucky-ones/id408685504. Three more dates for the John Waite 2011 European tour added, all in England: johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl/johnwaitethegreatest/2010/12/european-tourdates-2011.html. Neil Diamond, Tom Waits, Alice Cooper Make Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/hall-of-fame2-1215. Whitesnake Announce 2011 UK Tour: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/whitesnake-tour-1215. Pompei Nights have unveiled the artwork for the promo single Midnight Mistress from their upcoming debut album. The single contain two tracks, recorded and mixed by Martin Sweet (Crashdiet): Midnight Mistress and I Want It. Two songs can be listened on Street Symphonies Records YouTube Channel. Pompei Nights' debut album is gonna be released in the beginning of next year through Street Symphonies Records. Midnight Mistress: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGn8ojGxtgM / I Want It: www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTi2fHo2KJ0. Glam metal comedians Steel Panther are giving fans a free Christmas gift, in the form of a new song "Sexy Santa": app.topspin.net/store/artist/2225. Warrant's Erik Turner was recently quoted stating: "We have a new CD of all original material coming out with Robert in May 2011." Interview: heavyparadise.blogspot.com/2010/12/interview-with-warrants-guitarist-erik.html. Visit the brand new Memoria Avenue music page and join the band on Facebook: www.memoriaavenue.com. This is the new band from the Norwegian guitar player and songwriter Tor Talle, best known from the Northern Light project and working with great artists like Joe Lynn Turner (Rainbow, Deep Purple), Fergie Frederiksen (ex-Toto), Rob Moratti (Saga), Steve Overland (FM) and Tony Mills (TNT, Shy). The amazing singer is the very talented and hidden jewel Jan Le' Brandt. Jan is best known as the singer in the coverband Svigermord. Take a moment to check out the new Stormzone video for 'Secret Gateway' featuring live footage from their performance at Raismes Fest in France: www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-u6cgYBwi0. Issa - The Official Trailer:   NEW RON GEESIN ALBUM: "RONCYCLE 1: THE JOURNEY OF A MELODY": Every interviewer will start out by crediting Ron Geesin with being one of the most creative and original artists of our time - after which they will invariably focus exclusively on his work with Pink Floyd on Atom Heart Mother, which Geesin famously co-wrote and orchestrated. When gauged against his imposing body of work, this must seem a striking case of historical injustice - albeit one which cannot come as surprise to someone who, already as early as 1970, berated the Floyd for turning into a commercial machine and always chose the path of the individual expressionist. And yet, even in a career now spanning almost half a century, RonCycle1: The Journey Of A Melody, represents one of his most ambitious projects to date. It is an integral suite composed of sixteen pieces - some of them a mere minute short. Geesin has himself, in fact, referred to his latest creation as "a monster from the deep". Elements and influences from his entire career are passing by the audience's ears, ranging from puristic folk and proto-funk to orchestral meditations and the complex metrics of progressive rock. Thanks to a clearly defined narrative, which Geesin readily expounds upon in the liner notes, the result has nonetheless turned out entirely coherent. Geesin began work on the album in 1986: "the reason that it has all taken so long is that, as it grew, it frightened me so much that I had to walk away for long periods". Working with a variety of compositional approaches and with a little help from Edgar Allan Poe, the music did not develop in a linear fashion, but rather proliferated outward from a handful of creative centres. Technical issues meant parts of the work had to be transferred from their original tape to computer and, according to Geesin, "the whole digi-structure was becoming overwhelmingly complicated". Meeting Mark Ayres, known for his contribution to the BBC's Dr. Who, proved to be the solution. Ayres took care of final arrangements in his studio, bringing a twenty five year long epic journey to a satisfying end. Needless to say, RonCycle1: The Journey Of A Melody won't save Geesin from his association with Atom Heart Mother either. But taking into consideration that every step on his way has always seemed to be good for something, why should it? LION'S SHARE TO PLAY KARMOYGEDDON: Swedish melodic metal masters Lion's Share have been confirmed for next year's installment of the Karmøygeddon metal festival, set to take place May 6-7, 2011 in Haugesund, Norway. Other acts include Amorphis, Grave Digger, Crimson Glory, The Haunted etc. Lion's Share recently performed four Black Sabbath and Dio classics "Mob Rules", "Heaven And Hell", "Stand Up And Shout" and "We Rock" — with legendary drummer Vinny Appice (Heaven & Hell, Black Sabbath, Dio), during his Scandinavian Drum Day appearance in Stockholm, Sweden. Check out video footage of the "Heaven And Hell" soundcheck performance: www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQ-z8jFHFeg. Lion's Share's critically acclaimed "Dark Hours" album was released in 2009. The follow-up to 2007's "Emotional Coma" was mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren (Opeth, Symphony X, Paradise Lost, Amon Amarth) and features a guest appearance by Symphony X guitarist Mike Romeo (solo on "Behind The Curtain"). EMPIRES OF EDEN LAUNCH THE NEW FREE EOE APP ON IPHONE: Empires Of Eden launch the new free eoe app. The new free app give iPhone users bonus and exclusive content. The band will be providing regular competitions, updates and exclusive tracks for anyone with the new app. And, coming up to Xmas, is a gift to the fans of the band. Having released one of 2010's most celebrated metal releases, the album features superstars such as: Zak Stevens (Savatage / Circle II Circle) - Steve Grimmett (Grim Reaper - Lionsheart) - Mike Vescera (Yngwie Malmsteen - Loudness) - Sean peck (Cage) - Carlos Zema (Ourworld) and many more. Empires of Eden is a melodic shredding power ride that has earned reviews such as 9.5/10 metal monthly - 9/10 heavymetal.de and 8.5/10 powermetal.de. Search under "eoe" in the app store. www.empiresofeden.com. INTRODUCING ELECTRIC BOA: Electric Boa are a brand new Rock 'n Roll band from Philadelphia. The band just got their debut CD released and are also looking for new management (E-mail TheElectricBoa@mail.com for enquiries). Contact the band through: www.TheElectricBoa.com / www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/The-Electric-Boa/115764421792755 / www.airrecords.com. The Electric Boa, Candy Coated Cyanide, is now available on - CDuniverse.com - CDbaby.com - Itunes.com - Amazon.com. A recent review can be read here: www.origivation.com/reviews/december2010/boa.php. VICIOUS RUMORS NEW ALBUM "RAZORBACK KILLERS" COMING IN MARCH / APRIL 2011: It's Geoff Thorpe's story of power and pain. The quest to change peoples lives with the power of metal music and the fascination of his band in 2011. The guitarist and main songwriter of American power metal act Vicious Rumors says: "The older we get, the more wicked Vicious Rumors sound. We've definitely not slowed down – quite the opposite – have even more drive. Our fans won't see a single Vicious Rumors show where we don't go to our limits and beyond." Anybody who has been to one of the group's gigs during the past two years knows just what he means. Thorpe's comment not only describes his band's concerts, but also without reservation Vicious Rumour's latest album Razorback Killers, due out on SPV on 28 March 2011 (Germany: 25 March 2011, US: April 5th.) and featuring ten breathtaking new songs which transport the traditional Vicious Rumors sound perfectly into the present. To cut a long story short: this band has never sounded more dynamic than on Razorback Killers. The reasons for Vicious Rumors' high-powered performance? Thorpe has a plausible explanation: "The metal is in our blood!!!! Plus we always have an awesome line-up. Larry Howe on drums and vocals, our bassist Stephen Goodwin and guitarist Kiyoshi Morgan, and in Brian Allen we've found the best vocalist you could possibly get for these kind of songs." Brian Allen joined the Vicious Rumors fold one and a half years ago at the recommendation of Matt McCourt (Wild Dogs), a long time friend who Thorpe met up with at the Headbangers Open Air. "Matt had praised Brian, and I thought that he'd be perfect for Vicious Rumors." His assessment soon proved true: from the beginning, Allen showed his great potential during intense rehearsals. "We immediately noticed this raw, pure quality in him. Like a snowball, something very big developed very quickly out of small beginnings. During our five-week European tour, Brian got nothing but positive reactions from our fans." So Brian Allen and Kiyoshi Morgan are – along with Thorpe, Bassist Stephen Goodwin and drummer Larry Howe, of course – two of the elemental parameters which make Razorback Killers such a dynamic powerhouse of an album. Three other musicians deserve to be mentioned: the guest guitarists Mark McGee, Eric Peterson and Brad Gillis. "Isn't it fantastic that Mark returned and contributed those amazing solos on two songs?" McGee was a band member between 1986 and 1995 and has launched veritable guitar solos on 'Blood Stained Sunday' and 'Pearl Of Wisdom'. "Mark and I trading solos just like the old days," enthuses Thorpe, who also can't hold back his delight at Eric Peterson's impassioned solo passages on 'Murderball'. "Eric has been a friend for many years and is the driving force in Testament. His solo on 'Murderball' is a perfect combination of the whole energy of Vicious Rumors and Testament, merged into one song." And last but not least: Brad Gillis, who otherwise makes his living as one of the band leaders in Night Ranger, is one of Geoff Thorpe's close friends and already delivered a number of great solos on Vicious Rumor's predecessor album, Warball. This time around, Gillis contributed a matchless – as Thorpe calls it – "classic tremolo guitar solo" on 'Deal With The Devil'. "I remember well when he replaced the late Randy Rhoads in Ozzy Osbourne's band. Brad has my utmost respect as a friend and colleague." So the furious Razorback Killers marks the next chapter in the career of Vicious Rumors, whose history is paved with countless highlights: the band took the legendary Dynamo Festival in Eindhoven, Netherlands, by storm with their amazing shows in the summers of 1990 and 1994, floored the 2002 Wacken Open Air, rocked the metal fans at the 2007 Bang Your Head Festival and are celebrated frenetically all over the world for their passionate live performances. Vicious Rumors have released ten excellent power metal albums to date, travelled the world over a dozen times – with Metallica, Mötley Crüe, Judas Priest, Aerosmith and many others – and are now ready to present their latest recording to their fans. "We'll be co- headlining the Keep It True festival in April 2011, one month after the album is released," Thorpe promises. "We'll be touring for the rest of the year in the USA, Europe and Japan, hopefully also visiting countries such as South America or Australia, where we've never been before." Razorback Killers produced by Geoff Thorpe and Juan Urteaga certainly has the potential! Tracks: 01 Murderball, 02 Black, 03 Razorback Blade, 04 Blood Stained Sunday, 05 Pearl Of Wisdom, 06 All I Want Is You, 07 Axe To Grind, 08 Let The Garden Burn, 09 Rite Of Devastation, 10 Deal With The Devil. WebLinks: www.viciousrumors.com / www.myspace.com/spvmusic. MR-X UPDATED: Earlier this week, the annual tick-over of original memberships took place. There were a lot of failed/cancelled memberships due to changes of personal details within PayPal etc. For those that cannot log in this week, simply start afresh via the link below and have new details e-mailed to you. MR-X has been updated once again, this week featuring these new Z-rated uploads: - Zeno - Demos (21 Tracks) - Zircus - Demos (10 Tracks - Zero Zero & Steve Doherty - Demos (14 Tracks) - Ace Frehley - Best Of Live (15 Tracks) MR-X Membership Details. COMING UP: Up next week - Christmas Week: new Reviews, new CD Showcases (including John Waite) and the first Feature Interview for sometime - record producer Kevin Shirley (Mr. Big, Journey, Black Country Communion). Stay tuned...

 

 

Thursday, December 16, 2010

B&T DONATES ALL PROCEEDS FROM CHRISTMAS SINGLE TO KEEP MEMORY ALIVE: Las Vegas, NV – December 10, 2010 – Las Vegas rock band Beggars & Thieves (who recently returned from playing the prestigious Firefest in Nottingham, England), have just released an original Holiday single called Come Christmas Time available thru iTunes. The band will be donating all proceeds from the sales of the single through Christmas Day, 2010 to the non-profit "Keep Memory Alive" which supports the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. The Ruvo Center, located in downtown Las Vegas is the first medical center to bring world-class health care to Nevada. Beggars & Thieves' singer, Louie Merlino said, "We are proud to be able to help this great cause that is important to the future of Nevada." On December 13th KMA Founder Larry Ruvo, stated "The generous donation of Beggars & Thieves single, "Come Christmas Time" brings a younger audience to our charity and helps broaden our reach to younger generations". Keep Memory Alive, whose mission is to provide enhanced treatments and ultimately cures for patients and their families suffering from neurocognitive disorders, raises awareness and funds in support of the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. By supporting Keep Memory Alive and its fight against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Huntington's, Parkinson's, ALS and memory disorders of all kinds, we can ensure progress towards better treatments and ultimately cures will occur in Nevada. For additional information call (702) 263-9797 or visit www.keepmemoryalive.org. The band based out of Las Vegas was signed and released albums for both Atlantic and Epic/Sony Records. Their new album We Are The Brokenhearted will be released worldwide in the first quarter of 2011. Video Trailer Link click: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioj201DAFpQ. To purchase song visit itunes click: itunes.apple.com/us/album/come-christmas-timesingle/id408959948. AOR MAGAZINE ISSUE 2 GREEN LIGHTED: Great news for the AOR/melodic rock scene - an official green light has been given to the gang behind Classic Rock Presents AOR for a second issue to be due out in early March 2011. YES, IT'S A NEW LAD ALBUM: The new Last Autumn's Dream album titled Yes, has just been released in Japan, with the following track listing: 1 I've Fallen Into You 2 The Sound Of A Heartbreak 3 Another Night 4 Fool's Game 5 If I Could Change The World 6 To Be With You 7 Michelle Don`t Live Here No More 8 In This Thing Too Deep 9 Still Standin' Where Ya Left Me 10 Kissin' Goodbye My Tears 11 Survivor 12 I Forgive You 13 Alive. There is as yet, no word on a European release date. Stay tuned.   COLD CHISEL TO PICK IT UP AGAIN: Australian rockers Cold Chisel will once again reform next year for a new studio album and tour. Stated in The Age newspaper today: "Ian Moss, performing solo in Melbourne this week, said yesterday the band's gig at the Deniliquin Ute Muster in October was partly a catalyst for the re-formation. ''That was our second gig in 12 months and we're all getting on really well, so … at this stage we're in writing mode and in the very early part of 2011 we'll see if we've got enough songs and if we're happy with the ones we've written," he said. ''Hopefully by mid-year we'll be ready to start recording and we'll aim for a release later in the year.'' NewsLink: www.theage.com.au/entertainment/music/chisel-back-ready-to-rock-20101215-18y6i.html. NEW PROJECT HAS 'HOLY SHIT FACTOR' SAYS CRAIG GOLDY: Former Dio guitarist Craig Goldy has told Classic Rock that he's put together a new band, with what he describes as "having the Holy Shit factor". Joining him in this project are vocalist Chas West (Bonham), bassist Sean McNabb (Quiet Riot, Great White) and drummer Gary Holland (Great White). "The idea is to put the rock star back into everyone's lives," explains Goldy, who's currently working with Budgie. "So, you've got four people who look great, are amazing at their craft and the music pierces your soul. And they're all good people. I think people miss that sort of thing." The band currently have no name but are toying with the idea of calling themselves 13th Floor – "Because nobody ever likes to admit there is a 13th floor in a building!" NETWORK/SANDBAR VENUE CLARIFICATION: I had a couple of e-mails about the Network/Sandbar Reunion. Just to confirm - it is taking place at The Recher Theater in Towson, MD (www.rechertheatre.com/Shows).

 

 

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

TRACK BY TRACK WITH FENRIK LANE: MelodicRock Records released the great power-pop/melodic rock album 317 from Fenrik Lane back in September. The band originates from Bergen, Norway. This magnificent record contains powerful modern melodic rock and energetic pop. The band has experimented with creative arrangements, and the outcome is an exceptional recording with a unique and rich sound. The album also includes an intense rock-version of Rihanna's Russian Roulette. Recently reviewed in Issue 1 of Classic Rock Presents AOR, writer Jerry Ewing called the album "one of the finest melodic rock records this writer has heard in years! Chock full of ebullient melodies, razor sharp riffs and a prime pop sensibility... Fenrik Lane deserve to be superstars." Purchase full album from: www.melodicrockrecords.com/store Today it's over to bassist/pianist/backing vocalist John Erik Soltvedt for track by track comments on the album. Each track title is linked to a soundbyte, with several full length tracks available for downloading to sample this killer album.   Megalomania: We wanted the album to have a powerful start, and we felt that this track was spot on. The song is built around a strong main guitar theme, and it shows the darker and melancholic side of Fenrik Lane. Call Her Name: This is the complete opposite of the first track. Straight forward, but far from boring, this energetic pop song with it's catchy chorus will easily stick in your head. Diamonds In The Waste: This rock anthem is actually written by Fenrik Lane's former vocalist and World Idol winner Kurt Nilsen together with the producer Eirik Gronner. They felt that it was better suited for Fenrik Lane than Nilsen's solo album, and we're quite certain that they were right. The song differs from the rest of the album with the massive amount of synth and effects, but it still has the signature Fenrik-sound with a shouting chorus that could knock you over. Paranoia: The song has been described as manic melodica. This is guitar based rock with a powerful beat, and it escalates to be the most playful and experimental track on the album. Runaway Car: The first song to be recorded on this album (already in 2007). Classic rock song with a galloping chorus and mighty backing vocals. It was used in a commercial by Mitsubishi in their campaign on the new car ASX. Cover Your Eyes: A strong power ballad with clear inspiration from U2 in the verse and a killer chorus controlled by hefty backing vocals. Left Me Scarred: A combination of piano and a steady beat kick-starts this song. The staccato punch of the verse really brings out the flow of the chorus escalating all the way through the song. One of our personal favourites. Hot Lips: Fenrik Lane's ode to Major 'Hot Lips' Houlihan of MASH. The fast paced drums with the 16th hi-hat and the playful bass are fighting all the way through one of the more fevered compositions on 317. Bulletproof: An extraordinary ballad focusing on a lead bass and almost completely stripped of drums. Knut shows exceptional vocals in the lower tones of this evocative track including a beautiful piano bridge and by far the most disturbing lyrics on the album. Hello: Mid-tempo classic rock with mystical synth in the verse before the chorus kicks in with old-school guitars and "wo-o-ooh" vocals in the spirit of Twisted Sister. Going Nowhere: American rock song with a piano intro that gives you early-Springsteen associations. A rollicking happy-tune. Hate How You Say Goodbye: This is probably the oldest song on the album. A bright and melodic tune despite the title. Sun Explodes: One of the mellower tracks on the release, mostly acoustic guitar and excellent, earnest vocals from Glesnes. There's a real honesty to the vocal delivery, all accompanied by nearly choral background vocals. The outro will catch you off guard. Russian Roulette: The kick-ass version of Rihanna's Russian Roulette, a burst of adrenalin to end the album. The heartbeat ticks fast and the bullet is in the chamber ready to go! This is the only song on the record with a different producer, Bjarte Ludvigsen.     SERPENTINE CHANGE VOCALIST PRIOR TO NEW ALBUM LAUNCH: UK melodic rock band Serpentine who released their Japanese charting debut album A Touch Of Heaven via AOR Heaven / Marquee Avalon to great acclaim earlier this year, are pleased to announce that they are currently in pre-production for a follow up album due for release next summer. The band once again are teaming up with producers Mark V Stuart and Sheena Sear at M2 Studios in Staffordshire, and are due to start recording next month. Due to his heavy commitments with TNT it will be their last album with vocal legend Tony Mills, although he will continue his involvement with the band in a songwriting and arranging capacity. Says Mills: "This next album is a major development from the first and my serious concerns are for the guys and their musical careers, which will be much longer than mine. I think this is the right time as we are parting amicably and with a killer album in the works!" After a long search the group have recruited 23 year old Matt Black as the new voice of Serpentine. Matt was part of Oskura which featured the lead guitarist from Nazareth & Sensational Alex Harvey Band, Zal Cleminson. Keyboard player Gareth David Noon commented: "Tony is a tough act to follow for any musician, but Matt absolutely nailed his audition with us. He's a writer who lets energy and emotion into his songs, takes this to the stage with confidence and loves to get involved with his audience. This move for Serpentine allows us to be the band, not studio-only project that we've always professed to be. We are very much looking forward to this next chapter in our story." Expect Serpentine to hit the road in the UK with a bang next Spring. WebLink: www.myspace.com/planetserpentine.   KINGDOM COME NEW ALBUM "RENDERED WATERS" IN MARCH 2011: It is not the success of the early days which Lenny Wolf associates Kingdom Come with, nor earlier hits from his long-standing career. What he really cares about is the present. Is this a contradiction in view of his new album Rendered Waters (out on 28 March 2011 in Europe, 25 March 2011 in Germany, and on 05 April 2011 in the US), which features eight old and three newly recorded songs? Certainly not. All eleven tracks were cut at Lenny's Two Square Noise Factory studio in Hamburg, Germany. In particular, the new recordings of old material show Kingdom Come's vision of living in the here and now. "I purposely chose tracks from the very early days to show how we play, hear and feel the songs nowadays," says Wolf. "Listening habits have changed dramatically, especially among the younger audience, which made it exciting for me to breathe new life into numbers which have not been heard for a while." For example 'Should I', this time played more slowly giving it a heavier appeal. The drums are more open and the guitars, according to Lenny, feature a more tube-oriented sound and warmer, more driving tone: "Just to give it an overall 2011 vibe. Of course, you can only change songs to a certain extent if you don't want to lose the character and central theme of the original version." The same goes for 'I've Been Trying', 'Pushing Hard' and 'Living Out Of Touch'. None of them has been reinvented, but all three certainly have a noticeably new approach to them. On the other hand, Lenny changed the verse of 'I've Been Trying' completely, giving it a different arrangement, just like he transported the song 'Seventeen' into the year 2011. "'Seventeen' has always been kind of a key song for Kingdom Come, yet it has never received much attention since it has a very non-commercial approach and is either loved or hated, but with the new version it will hopefully get the recognition it deserves." Another argument against suggestions that Lenny just wanted to warm up old material is that he purposely didn't choose to re-record former hits like 'Get It On', 'What Love Can Be', 'Do you like it' and 'Twilight Cruiser' which put Kingdom Come on the map on a global level. He even selected a song such as 'Break Down The Wall' from his pre-Kingdom Come days back in 1985 when he played with LA-based band Stone Fury, which just goes to show how timeless the material is. "It was very interesting to add new styles and to carry them into the year 2011. There are a number of songs from the Seventies. Their charm lives off the old recording technology which can't be beaten these days and therefore should remain untouched, but re-recording Eighties songs isn't such a sacrilege." Let's not forget the three brand new songs, which feature that typical Kingdom Come structure of strong guitar hook lines and Wolf's charismatic vocals. 'Blue Trees', 'Is It Fair Enough' and 'Don't Remember' once again see Lenny prove his unwillingness to pander to expectations. Like it or not, he certainly follows his very own route. Although Lenny again recorded most of the instruments himself, Eric Förster, who contributed those ruthlessly driven guitar solos, and American-born Berlin resident Hanan Rubinstein, who mastered the CD, both certainly need to be mentioned for their great contribution. To sum it up, here are a number of facts for history buffs: Kingdom Come were formed in 1987 in Los Angeles, USA. Besides Lenny, the only German in the group, there was also James Kottack, now playing drums with the Scorpions. The sensational debut Kingdom Come reached number 12 in the US charts and went Gold, and its successor In Your Face made high chart positions all over the globe, too. There is no end in sight. In Lenny's words: "Kingdom Come is my calling. I either fall or rise with it. Apart from a few bad decisions, I've done alright. Thankful and still fully loaded, back to the future." For more detailed information about the Kingdom Come history, please visit www.lennywolf.com. Tracks: 01. Can't Deny (newly recorded version) 02. The Wind (newly recorded version) 03. Blue Trees (brand new song) 04. Should I (newly recorded version) 05. I've Been Trying (newly recorded version) 06. Pushing Hard (newly recorded version) 07. Seventeen (newly recorded version) 08. Is It Fair Enough (brand new song) 09. Living Out Of Touch (newly recorded version) 10. Don't Remember (brand new song) 11. Break Down The Wall (newly recorded version). WebLinks: www.myspace.com/spvmusic / www.lennywolf.com.   STRYPER BOOK AVAILABLE NOW: A limited number of Stryper books are now available for sale to the general public. Books are in stock now and will ship immediately via Priority Mail (with tracking number for shipments within the US). Stryper: By His Strypes is a 25 year visual history of your favorite yellow and black clad rockers! This limited edition (only 2,000 printed) high quality, hardcover coffee table book is packed with 200 pages of rare and never before seen pictures. The last chapter is dedicated to YOU, the fans, and features fan submissions from all over the world. WebLink: www.stryper.portmerch.com/stores/product.php?productid=17294&cat=0&pa. INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine did an exclusive interview with Bonfire's frontman Claus Lessmann about a number of topics. Lessmann revealed that the band's new album will be released early next year and he also shared with us a few song titles. Here's the excerpt: Rockpages.gr: You are about to release a brand new record. What can you tell us about it? Bonfire: As we speak, we are in the middle of the mixing process and if all goes as planned; the album will be released early next year…around January or February. I really like the new stuff…the new songs are somewhere in between "Fireworks", Point Blank" and "Double X". Rockpages.gr: Any titles…? Bonfire: Let's see…"Do or Die", "Save Me", "Just Follow The Rainbow"…it will be a great album. Rockpages.gr: Do you miss the days when you were all over MTV with "Hard On Me" and "Sword and Stone"? Bonfire: (laughs) Yes!!! Short Answer! I really miss that time but nevertheless we all have to carry on and fight against all the people who try to stop good rock music. I really hope that one day this music will return to TV because there are lots of people out there who miss it and wait for its return. Read The Full Interview On: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=4940&type=1&lang=EN. TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest Podcast (episode #112), featuring Kamelot Guitarist Thomas Youngblood. Thomas took time out of his busy schedule to discuss Kamelot's latest CD Poetry for the Poisoned, Thomas discusses how the new CD came together as well as why the current tour has been put on hold. Interview lasts approx. 25 min. Ever wondered what the worst hard rock/metal song was? There're quite a few, unfortunately, so narrowing it down would be tough. But join Genghis and Ragman as they discuss some of the biggest misses by some of their favorite artists. Next, the boys chew the fat with Kamelot guitarist Thomas Youngblood as he discusses the band's latest CD Poetry for the Poisoned, as well as the status of vocalist Roy Khan. Mike Levine (Triumph) interview: metalshrineblogg.blogspot.com/2010/12/intervju-med-mike-levine-i-triumph-for.html#links. Topics include new DVD, writing songs, first gig, offer from Damn Yankees, Sweden Rock audio and more. New interviews with Julie Westlake of Hydrogyn and Rudy Sarzo on RockEyez: www.rockeyez.com. MELODIC BRIEFS: Dangerous Enemy Forum release their latest album 'The Scorched Earth Policy' with 10 tracks – Where Life Goes, Better Off Dead, Lost In Faith, Last Chance Just Died, Shadows Over All We Know, Red Alert, After the War, Chronicle Of The world, This Conversation Is Over, Last Judgement Of The Man On The Street. The UK based band's 3 previous albums 'High Scream Head' / 'Set In Stone' / 'Dark Corridors' are also included as part of this free download package: www.reverbnation.com/dangerousenemyforum. Ceramoniah present their debut album 'Mind's Eye' featuring 11 classic rock influenced tracks – Dawn Raider, Call Of The Wild, Journey's End, Tekkon Nights, Mind's Eye, Ride the Storm, Looking Down, Execute The Masterplan, Event Horizon, Pray For The Outside World, On The Edge. The band are a self-financed, UK-based, independent artist, who are making the album available for download at: www.reverbnation.com/ceramoniah where you can also pick up the bonus track Lost Among The Clouds. Broken Melody news: "The band completed the new promo disc for the upcoming album. This new evolution in BM's sound it will be something that will surprise all open-minded metal fans. The band is also working on a great quantity of videos after the requests of fans around the world. "It's funny to work and record all these kind of behind the scenes and videos for the people that want to know more on the band. We just love it and we have to say a huge thank you to the fans all around" - says Roberto. Broken Melody will start the recordings of the first video clip at the end of December. Stay tuned for more." Billboard.biz reporting NBC is teaming with Mark Burnett to rush launch a new singing competition program that takes aim at Fox's American Idol and its upcoming series The X Factor. Titled "The Voice of America": www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/genre/rock-and-pop/nbc-mark-burnett-to-launch-idol-rival-1004134575.story. Soul Sign, featuring Michael Olivieri (Leatherwolf) - vocals, Bjorn Englen (Y. Malmsteen) - bass, Rob Math (Player, Seal) - guitar and Mike Taylor (R. McAuley) - drums, will be doing an exclusive show at Paladino's in Tarzana, CA this Fri Dec 17 at 11:30pm. This will be their only L.A./US show before the European Tour in May. The album "Life In The Dark" is ready for release and the group is currently negotiating a deal. For samples and more info visit SoulSign.us. GARY BARDEN ISSUES NEW SOLO ALBUM IN JANUARY: Inakustik/MVD has set an January 11, 2011 release date for Rock 'N' Roll My Soul, the brand new solo album from singer/songwriter Gary Barden (MSG). Along with Michael Schenker, Barden has penned several of the greatest songs made since the '80s, with Schenker composing the music and Barden providing the lyrics. "Rock 'N' Roll My Soul" shows a very different side of Gary Barden as it reflects the emotions and impressions which the singer soaked up in his youth. Commented Barden: "My love for these songs will never die. Enjoy these songs from a long bygone, but truly wonderful, time. You will hear how broad my musical influences are. There are a few surprises in store." "Rock 'N' Roll My Soul" track listing: 01. Oh Well 02. I'm Just a Singer 03. Never Before 04. When A Blind Man Cries 05. Let's Work Together 06. Why Did You Do It 07. I'm a Man 08. Stay With Me 09. Travellin' Band 10. The Long and Winding Road 11. Zeit Macht Nur Vor Dem Teufel Halt 12. Rock 'n' Roll My Soul. HARD ROCK NIGHTS TO LAUNCH NEW SHOW: Beginning Jan. 17th, Hard Rock Nights will begin airing a new, 3-hour show Monday thru Saturday on KARL Radio based out of Los Angeles. The Monday thru Friday shows will feature original programming each night, and the Saturday show will serve as a recap show highlighting the best music of the previous week. Hard Rock Nights is a 2 hour weekly syndicated radio program, hosted by Brian Basher, that currently airs on 20+ affiliates and in 3 countries and can be heard approximately 25 times a week. Participating stations and show times can be found at: hardrocknights.com/affiliates/. Since it first hit the airwaves in August 2008 on WMWX-FM in Cincinnati, through its move to syndication in 2009,. Hard Rock Nights has strived to give its listeners the best hard rock show possible each and every week. Following a slight format change and a new host in 2010, the syndicated radio show plans to take that goal a step further heading into 2011. Hard Rock Nights owner and host Brian Basher had this to say about the show. "Having a 2 hour weekly show is great for introducing our listeners to various new bands, but it doesn't really give the listeners a chance to become familiar with those bands because the play-list changes so much from week to week. With a nightly show we'll be able to introduce the bands to listeners around the world and give them a chance to really become familiar with a band and their music on a consistent basis." Basher continues, "I'm grateful and thrilled that the staff at KARL Radio have enjoyed what we've been trying to accomplish with Hard Rock Nights week-in and week-out, and I am thankful for the opportunity they have offered us to take Hard Rock Nights to the next level." While the initial nightly episodes of Hard Rock Nights will be broadcast on KARL Radio other stations, both internet and terrestrial are invited to contact Brian Basher in regards to carrying Hard Rock Nights - either the weekly or nightly broadcasts. KARL Radio is an internet radio station based out of Los Angeles that offers its listeners a wide variety of programming on a daily basis and can be heard at the following link: www.showbizbroadcasting.com. SITE DONATIONS - THANK YOU: A massive and heartfelt thank you to all that have donated over the last day or two. It's humbling to hear what the site means to people. I will sum things up Friday and can't wait to get cracking on a brand new MelodicRock for years to come.

 

 

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

LION MUSIC ARTIST UPDATE: After 2008's self explanatory Let The Metal Do The Talking, Swedish traditional metal exponents Overdrive deliver the most pulsating album of their career with the pedal to the metal bombast of Angelmaker. This new album sees Overdrive pummel the listener with their heaviest release yet. Home to 12 tracks all of which will make any self respecting metal fan throw the "horns" in appreciation. The artwork was once again created by renowned artist: Monowasp (House Of Lords, TNT, Aces High, Crystal Eyes etc) and depicts an "angelmaker" doing her deed (which was to make angels of (mostly) illegitimate babies). "Angelmaker" will be released by Lion Music on January 21. A track-by-track by Janne Stark: Signs All Over (Stark/Karlsson) – Kicks off the album with the pedal to the metal! Classic double bass drums heavy metal! In Gut We Trust (Stark) – Heavy stomper with an infectious soccer choir chorus. The lyrics are about trusting your guts, your inner feelings, instead of technology and false prophets. Angelmaker (Stark) – Another high speed metal number with an evil riff. An angelmaker was a woman who "took care of" children born out of wedlock and made them "disappear". The last one was convicted in the 1930's in Sweden. I Know There's Something Going On (Russ Ballard, arr: Stark) – A cover of the Russ Ballard penned song recorded by ABBA's Frida in the 80's, rejuvenated and metalized. Under The Influence (Ericsson/Karlsson) – Maiden-influenced riff oriented fast metal rocker which deals about a man trying to suppress his morbid urges. Featuring the classic Overdrive harmony guitars. On With The Action (Jacobsson) – Up-tempo environmental-friendly classic metal. See The Light (Stark) – A song originally penned by Janne Stark for the latest Scorpions writing session. As the Scorps wouldn't have it, Overdrive would. If it sounds a bit vintage Scorpions, it's no wonder. To Grow (Karlsson) – Another fast pace straight ahead heavy metal song with some nice variations. Mother Earth (Jacobsson) – A mid-tempo rocker with a heavy chorus dedicated to the north American Indians. It's A Thriller (Stark/Karlsson) – Up/mid-tempo metal influenced by Accept and Judas Priest, heavy and mean! Cold Blood Chaser (Stark) – Riff-filled up-tempo rocker, a bit influenced by vintage Riot (where the name Overdrive also comes from). Lyrics that take a twist on the vampire theme. The Wavebreaker (Karlsson) – PerilOz's epic anthem that goes from its soft acoustic intro into full heavy metal mayhem, ending where it started. Loaded with twin guitars. The perfect album closer. A video for the album medley (filmed at Metal Warning in Helsinki, Finland) has been produced and can be found on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYvkakGz0jg. WebLinks: www.facebook.com/OverdriveMetal / www.overdrive.se / www.lionmusic.com. MUSICIANS: Per 'PerilOz' Karlsson: Vocals, acoustic guitars; Janne Stark: Guitars, bass; Kjell Jacobsson: Guitars; Kenth Ericsson: Bass; Kenta Svensson: Drums. WebLinks: www.overdrive.se / www.myspace.com/overdrivesweden / www.facebook.com/OverdriveMetal.   xx Danish progressive metallers Infinity Overture return with their second album The Infinite Overture pt.1. Led by the superb guitar and compositional skills of Neils Vejlyt, the band have taken a step away from the symphonic metal slant of their debut to mark the start of altogether darker and more distinctive journey with enhanced progressive elements blended with gothic textures. The listener will also notice the new album being more guitar driven due to the reduction of symphonic elements. The new material also showcases the virtuoso side of the band making great use of dynamically rich music wrapped around irresistible vocal melodies. Vejlyt must be applauded for managing to combine all these elements whilst still ensuring the song remains the main priority and these are 9 compelling compositions. As a result of the slight change of musical direction Vejlyt saw fit to change the band line-up to best bring out the new music and also ensure the caliber of musicianship was high enough to perform the new material live. New female vocalist Kimmie Tenna Nielsen is the most major change, with her moving and powerful voice driving on the new compositions, her performance is set to make her an upcoming talent in the metal world. Bassist Bernardo Fesch has brought awesome bass groves to the compositions whilst drummer Jakob Vand has adds his grand technical skills and ideas to the band making for a very exciting rhythm section. Niels Vejlyt also secured the services of two of his favourite vocalists to perform some guest spots on the new release – namely Fabio Lione (Rhapssody Of Fire) and Amanda Somerville (Epica, Kamelot etc). Niels describes this as, An honour to have such greats on the songs. In addition to these two household names are a number of other guest backing vocalists all adding further depth to the compositions. Production guru Sascha Paeth (Edguy, Rhapsody of Fire, Kamelot) once again oversaw the mix and master with the outcome being another full and rich sounding release from Infinity Overture. Smoke & Mirrors Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrnFExCGVs8. Track Listing: 01. The Hunger. 02. The Stand. 03. Angels. 04. Evernight. 05. Secrets. 06. Back From The Past. 07. Smoke and Mirrors. 08. The Infinite Overture pt. 1. 09. Darkness Of Mind. Musicians: Niels Vejlyt - Guitar, Orchestrations and growl. Kimmie Tenna Nielsen - Vocals. Jakob Vand - Drums. Bernardo Fesch - Bass. Guest Musicians: Fabio Lione: Vocals, The Hunger; Amanda Somerville: Vocals, The Hunger, Secrets, The Infinite Overture pt. 1, Smoke and Mirrors; Marie Frifelt: Vocals, Back from the Past, Darkness of Mind; Simon Holm: Growl, Smoke and Mirrors, Darkness of Mind, Evernight; Hjalte Sejr Bertelsen: Growl, Smoke and Mirrors; Thomas Jensen: Vocals, Back from the Past, The Hunger; Mads Damgaard: Piano, Angels, Secrets, The Infinite Overture pt. 1. Album Credits: Produced by Niels Vejlyt. Edits: Niels Vejlyt. Mixed by Sascha Paeth. Mastered by Sascha Paeth. Orchestrations by Niels Vejlyt. WebLinks: www.welcometoinfinity.com / www.myspace.com/welcometoinfinity.   xx SCHENKER FRONTS NEW 'SUPER' GROUP FOR 2011: Greek Scorpions' Fan Club World Exclusive! New "super band", featuring Michael Schenker, Herman Rarebell, Pete Way and Michael Voss on vocals. The boys are hidden in the studio in Brighton working on a new album. Just a taste of what the boys are preparing for 2011! www.youtube.com/watch?v=4C4kWDLzHLE. FIREWORKS #43 OUT NOW + ROCKTOPIA TV: Fireworks #43 is out now. Available from selected WH Smiths stores (see Rocktopia.net for full details) as well as your favourite melodic rock outlets as ST Records, Destiny Records and AOR Heaven. This 96 page full colour issue contains interviews with Mr. Big, Heaven & Hell, Michael Monroe, Alter Bridge, Status Quo, Nelson, King X. Eloy, Huey Lewis, Stone Sour, Yngwie Malmsteen, Richard Marx, The Poodles, Paul Gilbert, Murederdolls, Taking Dawn, Poison Sun, Tank, Phenomena, Transatlantic, Line of Fire, Gravedigger and many, many more. Plus more reviews than you can shake a stick at, including full detailed review of October's incredible Firefest. You can read full interviews with Tom Galley (Phenomena), Line of Fire and The Gracious Few, plus extracts from Mr. Big, Richard Marx and Status Quo in the Fireworks section of Rocktopia.net. Copies can be bought online from www.rocktopia.net and www.thefirefest.com, and download pdf version will be available exclusively from melodicrock.com. UK readers can also get a copy by sending cheque for £6 (inc P&P) payable to 'Bruce Mee' to the following address: Fireworks Magazine, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5XD.   How many of you were there at Firefest 3 when Gotthard blew the roof off, cementing their reputation as one of THE best live rock bands going? That was the same year as Wig Wam's eye-popping UK debut, and who could EVER forget those guys? Or even further back, to the Gods show in Wigan in 2000 when Kevin Chalfant brought a few friends with him – Jim Peterik and Kelly Keagy for example – and delivered a truly memorable set crammed full of classics from Two Fires, Survivor, Night Ranger and The Storm? Well now you can relive the high points of those sets on Rocktopia TV as we give you access to exclusive DVD footage … with the promise of more to come. To access these shows, simply log register on Rocktopia here: www.rocktopia.co.uk/index.php?option=com_juser&task=register then click on Rocktopia TV. You've heard the legendary stories of classic sets … now go and check them out for yourself! Coming soon....Romeo's Daughter, Ten and Terry Brock! WITHIN TEMPTATION REVEAL FIRST SONG FROM NEW ALBUM: On Wednesday December 15, Within Temptation will reveal the first song from their upcoming and long-awaited concept album The Unforgiving which hits stores March 2011. The track, titled "Where Is The Edge," will be launched on the band's official website and will coincide with the launch of a video featuring the track. The video will contain exclusive preview scenes taken from the upcoming movie Me & Mr. Jones, directed by Oscar-winning Dutch director Paul Ruven. The movie is a thriller inspired by the disappearance of Natalee Holloway on Aruba, the island where also the movie itself has been secretly shot. Fans sharing the video on their Facebook using an application on the Within Temptation Facebook page will have their names included in the special edition of the album. When speaking about the track, Within Temptation revealed, "The song 'Where Is The Edge' is based on the story of The Unforgiving, a graphic novel written by Steven O'Connell. However there is a clear link between the storyline of our new concept album and the thriller Me & Mr. Jones as they both deal with mystery, murder, guilt, and a lack of forgiveness." For more information on Within Temptation: www.within-temptation.com. SANDBAR/NETWORK REUNION - TOWSON, MD: Saturday, December 18 - Hybrid Ice; Mannekin; B.A.M.B. (Featuring Rob and Lee from the Ravyns, and Vinnie and JT from Crack the Sky); Scott McGinn and David Utter of FaceDancer with Ricky Thomas of Mona Lisa; Hammer; Temper Temper; Vaudeville; Johnny, Jeff and Steve of The Vamps; Dogs Of War; and more to be announced. 2pm Doors, All Ages, $20.00. Located at 8501 Fort Smallwood Rd in Pasadena MD, Sandbar/Network was known for its live entertainment that would bring a crowd that crossed the Stoney Creek bridge to see such acts as The Shoes, Facedancer, GTR, Talas, The Joe Perry Project, Staggerwing, Mannekin, Wrathchild, Spectrum, The Road Ducks, Twisted Sister and many more. DOUBLE-LP VINYL VERSION OF 'DIO AT DONINGTON UK: LIVE 1983 AND 1987': The recently-released double-disc Dio CD, 'Dio at Donington UK: Live 1983 & 1987,' is about to get a glorious vinyl makeover. On February 15, 2011, the album will be issued as a double vinyl set with deluxe gatefold packaging, and on 180 gram vinyl - the first-ever Dio album to be released in this high quality vinyl format. The album was mixed and mastered under the supervision of Dio's longtime engineer, Wyn Davis, and comes hot on the heels of the CD version's success (debuting at #98 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart - Dio's strongest chart debut in the "Soundscan era"). The first disc of 'Dio at Donington UK: Live 1983 & 1987' was recorded at the first-ever UK performance by Dio's solo group, while on tour supporting their classic debut, 'Holy Diver.' And the set-list does a superb job reflecting Dio's debut (featuring such classics as "Rainbow in the Dark," "Stand Up And Shout," etc.), as well as classics from both Rainbow and Black Sabbath ("Man on the Silver Mountain," "Heaven and Hell," etc.) - resulting in a thorough retrospective of Dio's career, from Rainbow to Black Sabbath to solo hits. The second disc of 'Dio at Donington UK: Live 1983 & 1987' features guitarist Craig Goldy's debut - recorded in 1987, in support of the 'Dream Evil' album, and contains further highlights from Dio's career. Between Facebook, MySpace and Twitter, the Dio social media followers now number over one million. Also recently opened for business is the Official Dio Webstore, which gives fans worldwide the opportunity to purchase t-shirts, limited edition items, and CD's/DVD's that fans have been requesting. 2011 is shaping up to be a busy shopping year for Dio collectors, so stay tuned! For more information, please go to: www.ronniejamesdio.com / www.facebook.com/OfficialRonnieJamesDio / www.myspace.com/dioofficial / www.twitter.com/OfficialRJDio / www.officialronniejamesdiowebstore.com.

 

 

Monday, December 13, 2010

Hi folks, time for a little end of year 'where are we at' update. For the past 6 months I have been planning a complete redesign of the site – retaining the features and style that are most loved about the site, while also adding some fresh ideas and a new approach to how I deliver parts of the site content. I want an easier to update site so all sections can be better updated at regular intervals. Not to mention brining this self-designed and self-built archaic 2002 era platform up to 2011 standards of full interactivity for users. As I searched for the right CMS platform to suit the site's needs I quickly found out that nothing short of a purpose built design was going to cut it. So I have hooked up with a premiere US based Drupal design agency to help build MelodicRock Mk. 4, to be launched in the first half of 2011. Unfortunately, there is a substantial cost to do this and I am calling upon the melodic community that reads and enjoys this site to help fund the re-design. The state of business in general in this scene is pretty dire – I'm not sure how many people realize just how bad it is and how many small operators are struggling. We all are. But the fight must go on! For that reason, I am just not in a position to be able to afford an upgrade without the support of readers. So today I launch the MelodicRock Upgrade Donation Drive. I'm hoping that I can raise at least $2000 in donations, but anything over that will also go into ensuring that I can continue to deliver news, reviews and everything else for the foreseeable future. Anyone that does donate to the cause will find themselves in a group of VIPs that will be used to beta-test the new site and gain first access to new interactive features. You'll see it first and you'll use it first and I will keep all folks updated with news of how things are coming along. Plus – you will be encouraged to add your own input into the site and what you would like to see included. Thanks for reading and thanks in advance for any support you can offer. The idea is to bring MelodicRock not only up to date, but put it firmly in front as a leader in this scene for years to come. Donate via Paypal on the link provided. Other methods for donating can be accommodated, please e-mail for options.   AVENUE OF ALLIES PRESS RELEASE – DECEMBER 2010: Avenue Of Allies Press: "The schedule for 2011 will be kicked off by the smokin' hot albums of Miss Behaviour, Hell In The Club, Moritz and Danger Zone, all due January 28. Miss Behaviour – Last Woman Standing (Sweden 2011 – Avenue 11 01 0021) "Last Woman Standing" is a Melodic Rock and AOR album of the highest order based in the classic Eighties sound and including a guest appearance of guitar player Roland Grapow (Masterplan, Ex-Helloween). Certainly one of the highlights in the upcoming year in the genre. The professionally shot video to the ballad Till We Meet Again just premiered on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=SchX6n6EQZg / www.missbehaviour.se.   xx Danger Zone – Line Of Fire (Italy 2011 - Avenue 11 02 0022) Danger Zone's "Line Of Fire" is an album of catchy Melodic Rock songs with an harder edge. Recorded back in the prime days of Melodic Rock, with producers Jody Gray and Mark Cobrin, both successful with the Japanese Hard Rock outfits Loudness and EZO. "Line Of Fire" is now available for the first time ever carefully remastered from the original source by Roberto Priori and packaged as a Special Limited Edition in a jewel case with an individually numbered slipcase. WebLinks: www.dangerzoneweb.com / www.myspace.com/dangerzoneband.   xx Moritz - Undivided (United Kingdom 2011- Avenue 11 03 0023) The amazing return of one of the UK's finest AOR bands, twelve new classic AOR tunes in the vein of Strangeways, FM, Airrace and Tobruk. A very pleasant surprise and definitely a must-have for any serious AOR and Melodic Rock fan. The official promo video for the song Should've Been Gone is available on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGAXcu5sWro / www.harmonyfactory.co.uk.   xx Hell In The Club – Let The Games Begin (Italy 2011 - Avenue 11 04 0024) Created by members of two of the most talented Italian Heavy Metal bands around: Secret Shere and Elvenking, Hell In The Club is a successful venture into a different musical territory delivering fist pumping Hard Rock anthems with ultra catchy hooklines. www.myspace.com/hellintheclub / www.hellintheclub.com. LabelLink: www.avenue-of-allies.com   xx FIREFEST 2011 NEWS UPDATE: News from the office of Firefest: "After a few weeks rest and recuperation for all the crew, it has been decided that we simply cannot resist seeing all your smiling faces again in 2011. We are just awaiting a written confirmation or two from various managers and agents regarding some of the acts that we have lined up for next year. We are hopeful that we will have everything completed by Christmas but in the event that the holiday period causes some unforeseen delays we are pretty sure that we should be ready to go in early January with a full announcement of venue, dates (and no it's not the same weekend as last year!!) and full line up. It has not been decided yet if we will run a three day (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) Firefest. We are all well aware that a three day show incurs a lot of extra expense (extra tickets, accommodation costs etc.) and at this point in time we are leaning strongly towards a return to a Friday and Saturday only, but that's not to say we cannot be persuaded to extend that . We have a LOT of bands keen to play the show , so there is certainly no problem in running a 3 day , but our primary consideration as always is affordability for those attending. As you are no doubt aware we do this every year without any major commercial sponsorship, so if anybody interested in sponsoring any part of the show would like to step up we would be delighted to hear from you. We're not going to give the game away with regard to who is or who is not playing at this point in time, only to say that 2011 will be a year for a lot of 'firsts' ... in fact we looked at the potential line up earlier tonight and went WOW! As soon as we have the line up completed and fully confirmed we will announce it through the usual channels. A brief update regarding the live DVDS and CDs recorded at Firefest 2010. Mixing is currently taking place on all the recorded material, and hopefully we should have the first recordings available in late January or early Feburary. More news as soon as we have it, in the meantime, wishing you all a Very Merry Christmas and a rocking 2011." - Kieran, Bruce and the gang. LITTLE AMERICA BACK FOR ONE SHOW: Awesome news for fans of Mid-western rock - Little America will reform for the first time since 1989 and play a live show at Club Fortune Casino in Henderson, Nevada Feb 26 at 10pm. The band's Andy Logan e-mailed me the news today, stating: "I've had fun working through the old tunes and getting my gear in order. We'll be sticking to the old stuff. No solo material." I suggested to Andy that there should be a live recording of this show!   NEW SEVEN THORNS DUE IN JANUARY: The Danish Power Metal band Seven Thorns announced the release date for Return to the past in Germany at the 14. January 2011. Feat. special guests - Erik "Ez" Blomkvist, Mikkel Henderson and Olaf Lenk. Recorded and mixed in Media Sound Studios by Peter Brander. Mastered by Tommy Hansen, Jailhouse Studios. The band inked a deal with the promo agency Rock N Growl (www.rockngrowl.com) and booking with "Red Lion Music" (www.redlionmusic.de) from Germany. The new website of "Seven Thorns" is online! Seven Thorns: "The new Seven Thorns website is on air. We hope you like it as much as we do. Check out the media player, where you can hear a couple of our great songs!" - www.seventhorns.com. The new video for the hit song "Liberty" is on its way. Stay tuned for updates! lads.myspace.com/Embeds/SongEmbed/SongEmbed.swf?songId=77687068. Statements "Return to the past": "It kicks ass!!" :: Tommy Hansen "The best album ever - from the leading Danish supplier of catchy power metal" :: Steen (Power of Metal Magazine) "Seven Thorns is Denmark's best answer to a metal band of international stature, as the album's production qualities also testify. These guys know what they want and they are really good at doing it" :: Martin (Power of Metal Magazine) "Return To The Past is most likely to be the best power metal release in 2010" :: Johanne (Gaffa Magazine) "Return To the Past is without a doubt one of the best Danish power metal album in quite some time, and an album that should help Seven Thorns establish themselves as one of Denmark's leading power metal bands with ease. Go get!" :: Kenn Jensen (Power of Metal Magazine) Check www.seventhorns.com :: www.rockngrowl.com :: www.trendxl.de :: www.redlionmusic.de for all announcements.   WHITE WIDDOW TALKS TO ROCK PAGES: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine did an exclusive interview with Australian's new melodic rock sensation White Widdow. Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: 80's AOR has been quite fashionable lately, but it seems like it's making a strong come back now. What does White Widdow have to offer in this re-emerging scene? Enzo Almanzi: 80's AOR is definitely thriving more at the moment in other certain parts of the world than it has in years. I guess we offer a slightly harder edged sound than most AOR bands. The fact is that each member of White Widdow has quite diverse influences, hopefully sets us slightly apart from the current (and awesome!) crop of melodic rock bands. At the same time, we always set out to play this style of music because of our long term love for it, so we aren't likely to ever deviate far from this sound. Rockpages.gr: How long did the band exist before the album release? Have you tested the material live? Enzo Almanzi: The idea of White Widdow and forming an Australian AOR band was born in late 2007. I was friends of Jules and Trent (Wilson, bass) though playing in a Van Halen tribute with Jim (Nais, drums) on the same bill as their band The Deadthings many times. I approached Jules one night at a local hard rock club here in Melbourne about possibly working together on music in the near future. Within a few days he called me to meet and discuss the idea further which led to White Widdow. Trent, Jules and I quickly recruited a drummer and Jules' brother Xav on keys and began playing shows locally, doing mainly AOR covers from bands such as Treat and Aviator. We were writing our own songs in rehearsals and slowly worked them into our set. Jim was brought in to replace our first drummer last year. We continued playing shows and touring the main Australian cities right up until we were signed by AOR Heaven earlier this year! Read The Full Interview On: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=4928&type=1&lang=EN.

 

 

Friday, December 10, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS INTRODUCES HURTSMILE: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of Hurtsmile self-titled debut album on January 21st 2011 in Europe, with US release to follow. Hurtsmile is the new band featuring singer Gary Cherone (Extreme, Van Halen) who has teamed up with his brother Mark to write his most succinct record to date. The self-titled, Hurtsmile is a raw sonic sucker punch in the face! From the opening buzz saw riff of "Just War Theory" to the epic finale of "Slave" and "Beyond The Garden/Kicking Against the Goads", Gary continues to push and poke you in the ear with his lyrically provocative themes. "Hurtsmile was a long time coming… I always wanted to write a record with my brother," says Gary. "I'm a big fan of Mark's song writing and his snarling guitar riffs." The timing was right as Extreme was in-between their touring and record cycle, leaving Gary the freedom. They recruited Joe Pessia (bass) an alumnus of Nuno Bettencourt's Dramagods as well as the guitar player for Tantric. Joe also engineered, and co-produced the record with Gary. To round off the lineup they enlisted heavy hitter Dana Spellman on drums "It's an east coast-Boston thing," states Gary. "Mark, my brother, was in a band with Nuno's brother… Joe was in Nuno's band and Dana was a friend, and student of Mike Mangini (former Extreme drummer)…we like to keep it in the family." The lineup is not the only thing familiar with the band. In true Cherone fashion, the record is chock full of swaggering guitar, soaring vocals and the trademark Cherone eclecticism on tracks such as "Jesus Would You Meet Me", the reggae-tinged "Just War Reprise" and the Dylanesq "The Murder of Daniel Faulkner (4699)". "Hurtsmile was about returning to my roots, writing a record in my basement, a straight up rock 'n' roll record… but it turned out to be more diverse and ambitious than I expected." Gary is no stranger to taking on intense topics, and Hurtsmile is no exception. The first half of the record is a group of more loosely knit songs such as the cynically inquisitive "Just War Theory", the limit's of free speech "Tolerance Song (edit)" and the disturbingly mesmerizing "Kaffur (Infidel)", inspired by the beheading of Daniel Pearl. The 2nd half of the record is more conceptually cohesive; an introspective look at the nature of man and the condition of the human heart. "Stillborn" introduced earlier, and "Set Me Free" both touch on mans inclination toward darkness, culminating with an epic journey from sin to salvation… "Slave" to "Beyond the Garden/Kicking Against the Goads". For the most part both themes are represented as 2 sides of a record. A concept familiar to Extreme fans but make no mistake, whether reading between the lines or just moved by the visceral power of the music, this is a completely different type of record. Gary adds, "All the boys in the band have brought something new to the table, and you'll never know what hit you!" "Hurtsmile" tracklisting includes: Just War Theory; Stillborn; Love Thy Neighbor; Kaffur (Infidel); Painter Paint; Tolerance Song (Edit); Set Me Free; Jesus Would You Meet Me; Slave; Beyond The Garden / Kicking Against The Goads; Just War Reprise; The Murder Of Daniel Faulkner (4699). The songs "Just War Theory" and "Love Thy Neighbor" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Hurtsmile: Gary Cherone ­ Vocals; Mark Cherone - Guitars; Joe Pessia - Bass, Mandolin; Dana Spellman ­ Drums, Percussion. Produced by Gary Cherone, Joe Pessia.   xx METAL HEAVEN ANNOUNCE FEBRUARY RELEASES: Oliver Weers - Evil's Back / Out: February 25, 2011/ label: Metal Heaven Oliver Weers stormed into Danish consciousness in 2007 with his emphatic performances during the auditions of the biggest talent show in the world, The X-Factor. His popularity amongst the Danish population sky rocketed with his legendary performance in the final, singing Queen's classic "The Show Must Go On". One success led to another. Being a household name in Denmark his debut album was hotly anticipated by the press, and in early 2008 fans were rewarded with the fantastic "Get Ready". Released by Target Records "Get Ready" proved apt advice for the tour de force of Oliver's powerful vocals and the album's impressive musical line-up. Not many debuts can boast performances with producer/musicians like Søren Andersen (Mike Tramp/Artillery), drummer Tommy Aldridge (Ozzy Osbourne/Whitesnake) and bassist Marco Mendoza (Whitesnake/ Thin Lizzy). By September 2008 the album was set for international release in the rest of Europe and Japan. In the following years Oliver has established himself as one of the leading hard rock artists in Scandinavia. Through impressive live performances at some of the biggest festivals in Denmark and support slots for giants such as Motley Crue and Whitesnake his fan base is rapidly growing. For "Evil's Back" Oliver has collaborated with an international and mixed generation team of artists; with young and vibrant Anders Borre and Anders Bo, from Denmark, and talented guitarist Laki Ragazas, from Greece. This is a team for great composing and song writing, completed by Kristian Thomsen who has mixed the album. Track list: 1. Intro, 2. Evils Back, 3. All My Life, 4. Without You, 5. Hero, 6. Need it Bad, 7. Beautiful Rain, 8. Much too Much, 9. Fighting the Mountains, 10. Devils Chain, 11. Demolition Man, 12. Rainbow Star. Sound clips in advance: All My Life / Much Too Much / Need It Bad. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/oliverweersband.   xx Sideburn - Jail / Out: February 25, 2011 / label: Metal Heaven Sideburn were founded on the ashes of Swiss Heavy Metal band Genocide (which were active between 1986-1997) in 1997 by vocalist Roland Pierrehumbert and rhythm guitarist Fred Gudit. "Sell Your Soul (For Rock 'n' Roll)" (1997), the self-proclaimed "rebaptism" as Sideburn saw the band's redirected approach, which resulted in this bare-knuckled album. Sideburn seemingly made no apologies for the full-scale change from Heavy Metal to riff orientated Hard Rock. The name "Sideburn," in fact, is also admittedly rooted in rock tradition. Relentless gigging, including a pinnacle supporting slot for KISS at Hallenstadion in Zurich and a couple of line-up changes followed. Following a brief hiatus where the realigned band tightened the screws a few turns, Sideburn resurfaced in 2001 with "Crocodile" and later with "Gasoline" in 2004. Swiss production guru Juerg Naegeli also re-enlisted for both discs. These releases continued to exhibit the band's progressive dedication to the favored Aussie sound. Over this period, the band's reputation as a tight, dedicated outfit both in the studio and live led to an impressive list of supporting tour engagements. Sideburn opened for legends Def Leppard, Motorhead, Dio, Ted Nugent, Thin Lizzy, Krokus and Doro... and even Meat Loaf. 2006 marked the 20th anniversary of the Sideburn/Genocide project. The band celebrated the milestone with the career spanning anthology titled "Archives" before the most recent album "Cherry Red" was released in 2008. The song "Six Feet Under" was featured in the last season of the famous show "24" with Kiefer Sutherland. In 2010, Sideburn worked on their new release with multi-platinum producer Beau Hill (over 50 millions album sold Ratt, Gary Moore, Winger, Twisted Sister), as co-producer and mixer. Since September 2010, the fans can challenge themselves by playing the song "Cherry Red" on Xbox 360's music game "Rockband 3". The new album "Jail" will be released on the 25th of February 2011 by Metal Heaven in Europe (except Switzerland) & Japan. Tracklist: 1. Live To Rock 2. Devil And Angel 3. One Night Stand 4. Rock'n'roller 5. Lazy Daisy 6. Jail 7. Chase The Rainbow 8. The Red Knight 9. Long Beard And Boogie 10. Good Boy 11. Kiss Of Death 12. Creedence Vibe. Sound clips in advance: Lazy Daisy / Live To Rock / The Red Knight. WebLink: www.sideburn.ch.   xx MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new features: - Skid Row - Best Of Live (17 Tracks) - White Lion - When The Lion Cries 1991 (Full Live Show) - Odessa - Demos (Sweden 1989)(3 Tracks) - Los Angeles - Demos (US 1987)(4 Tracks) - Palma - Demos (UK 87 - 88)(8 Tracks) MR-X Membership Details. ALICE COOPER 1971 KILLER TOUR PRO SHOT SURFACES TO PROMOTE AUCTIONS: To promote a series of Hard Rock/Heavy Metal memorabilia auctions, eBay seller EliteWorks has posted an excerpt from a never-before-seen 1971 pro-shot of the original Alice Cooper group. The 39-year old film features the original band in all of their glory, during their Killer Tour. The concert was recorded on New Years Eve 1971 in Toronto, Canada and this is the first time any moving images have surfaced of the original band performing Be My Lover. The footage is so rare most die-hard Alice Cooper collectors were not even aware of its existence. The Hard Rock/Heavy Metal themed auctions include several vintage Alice Cooper items notably; rare 1970s paperwork, monogrammed sticks from original drummer Neal Smith and even the highly-sought after 1975 Performance Magazine Welcome To My Nightmare cover story. The auctions can be seen here: search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZeliteworks. Alice Cooper performing Be My Lover from 1971 may be viewed here: www.youtube.com/user/EliteWorksATeBay?feature=mhum#p/u/12/H5uqBr6CC9Y. MOSH POTATOES - RED EYE SHOW INTERVIEW: Music Industry veteran and musician Steve "Buckshot" Seabury was interviewed on last night's edition of Fox News' "Red Eye" show with host Greg Gutfeld. During the interview they discussed the inspiration behind "Mosh Potatoes - Recipes, Anecdotes & Mayhem From The Heavyweights Of Heavy Metal", a food tasting and the humorous stories behind each recipe. "Red Eye" is a late-night/early-morning talk show on the Fox News channel. Airing at 3:00 a.m. EST on weekdays with repeats on weekends at 12:00 a.m. EST, the show covers a variety of topics, including news, entertainment, sports, and gossip. It is hosted by former Maxim U.K. editor Greg Gutfeld. Here is the link to watch the interview on Red Eye: video.foxnews.com/v/4453499/recipes-to-rock-your-taste-buds/. The Chicago Reader noted for its literary style of journalism, is acclaimed for their critic's choices and recommendations in film, music, art and dining has named Mosh Potatoes in their top 10 cookbooks of 2010 in their year end Food & Drink Column: www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/holiday-cookbooks-guide-thai-street-food-mosh-potatoes/Content?oid=2848837. Over 5 years in the making, Mosh Potatoes (Simon & Schuster) features 147 exciting recipes from legendary icons like Lemmy, Zakk Wylde and Lita Ford to the thrash titans of Pantera, Megadeth, Testament, Overkill and Anthrax to the hair metal bands of Guns & Roses, Dokken, La Guns, Steel Panther, Twisted Sister to the mayhem of metal including Mudvayne, Lamb Of God, Shadows Fall, Hatebreed and Devildriver. For more information please check out the new Mosh Potatoes website at: www.moshpotatoescookbook.com / www.facebook.com/moshpotatoesbook.   REVIEWS UPDATED: New Reviews online today for Nelson, Dan Reed, Appearance Of Nothing and Captain Zapped. Read Now.

 

 

Thursday, December 09, 2010

ADRIAN DODZ BACK OUT ON CD: The Schmankerl Records Crew proudly presents: the Digital Remastered 2010 Re-release of the ultra-rare 1988 Melodic hard rock indie release from the U.S.A. - Adrian Dodz. The album features Hal Selzer & John Bushnell (later - Silent Witness) ~ the perfect combination of Red Dawn + Network + Icon - incl. 3 unreleased bonus tracks. The re-issue is available right now from: www.schmankerl-records.de.   xx JEFF SCOTT SOTO - RARE USA SOLO SHOW: Jeff Scott Soto and his solo band featuring members past and present (Howie Simon, Gary Schutt, Edu Cominato, BJ) will be playing a special show at the Whisky-A-GoGo in Hollywood, CA on Thu, January 13, 2011, with headliners Fozzy featuring Chris Jericho and Brooklyn's Z02, the band from the hit TV series Z-Rock, which will be sponsored by many of the companies endorsing these acts. The show is All Ages and will be a sell out so get your tickets early!   MOONSPELL CONFIRMED FOR SWEDEN ROCK 2011: Portugal's biggest metal band of all time - Moonspell - is also ranks among the pioneers of Gothic metal, along the likes of Type O Negative, Paradise Lost, My Dying Bride and Katatonia. Especially Moonspell's debut album "Wolfheart" (1995) ranks among the classics of the genre with its rough black metal edges around the ominous core. After a number of years and releases of a more experimental, poppier kind, Moonspell returned to their heavy origins on "Under Satanae" (2007) and "Night Eternal" (2008) - to the delight of their fans. Moonspell are currently working on their tenth album, that singer Fernando Ribeira promises will be their darkest, sexiest and heaviest in ages. Excellent timing, with the band's first SRF-performance coming up. Read more under Bands 2011 - www.swedenrock.com. NEW DOWNLOAD FROM JAMIE MALLENDER: Press release from Jamie Mallender, best known as bass player for former Black Sabbath vocalist, Tony Martin: Released 1st December 2010 as a taster from the forthcoming "Tunes From The Mothership" EP, Slip Away, is a download only single, available from all the usual digital download sites - iTunes, Amazon, CDBaby etc. Jamie states: "It's been just over a year since "Return To Bass," and I really didn't want to wait this long to put out another record. I love recording and I have a lot of music in me, I just need the time to put it down on tape! I've been singing a lot whilst I've been working with Eaglesque this last 12 months and this has got me back into the singer/songwriter thing. So I've decided that as soon as i can, I'll put out an EP, 3 vocal tunes (one of which is a cover of one of my favourite songs) and 2 instrumentals. The EP will be called "Tunes From The Mothership," and Slip Away will be track 1. I'm releasing the single version of it now as a download only, as a little taster and to keep the fans awake!" Some fans may recall "The Free Download EP" which was available on MySpace a few years ago, for a limited time only. The most popular track from that demo recording was, "Don't Let It Slip Away" which is the track Jamie has re-recorded here, giving it the Mothership studios treatment, a shortened name and here it is. Written and recorded by Jamie Mallender, also featuring Jamie on all instruments and all voices: www.youtube.com/watch?v=gujrjF1trMM / www.jamiemallender.co.uk.

 

 

Wednesday, December 08, 2010

SPONSOR CALL: MelodicRock.com is actively looking for new sponsors – big or small – in the industry or outside. This site has a very large and loyal reader base, should any company out there be looking to reach into new territory or further expand their brand name in one easy step. I will also happily take suggestions or leads from any readers. A complete set of statistical data is available on request for any interested parties. For details, please e-mail: ajm@melodicrock.com. JUDAS PRIEST ANNOUNCE FAREWELL TOUR: After storming the world for nearly 40 years and taking their very special brand of heavy metal to all four corners of the planet, Judas Priest - one of the most influential heavy metal bands of all time, have announced this will be their final world tour! However, the mighty Priest will certainly be going out strong as they rock the planet starting in 2011 on the massive Epitaph Tour - hitting all the major cities throughout the world, they will be playing the songs that helped make the name Judas Priest synonymous with heavy metal! With all guns blazing and amps cranked to eleven, the band will be giving all their fans one last chance to witness the ultimate metal experience that is Judas Priest! Judas Priest will be starting their world tour in Europe - we have just confirmed the following festivals for 2011 - 9th June Sweden Rock Festival, Sweden 11th June Sauna Festival, Finland 17th June Copenhell Festival, Copenhagen, Denmark 19th June Hellfest, Nantes, France 22nd June Gods of Metal Festival, Milan, Italy 25th JuneGraspop Festival, Belgium 23rd July High Voltage Festival, London, UK 5th August Wacken Festival, Germany Stay tuned as we announce more dates - information will be forthcoming soon - so start getting prepared to rock one final time with the incomparable JUDAS PRIEST! TRIUMPH, HAS LAUNCHED ONLINE STORE AND BRAND NEW WEBSITE: "The fans spoke, and now they have gotten what they wanted. Canadian rock royalty Triumph, has launched a brand new, completely overhauled website and online store, for all your Triumph needs! The website will serve as both the band's official website and as a community for Triumph's devoted worldwide following. The new site (whose URL will remain www.TriumphMusic.com) will feature streaming music, videos, classic interviews and memorabilia, as well as many other options for fans to learn the history behind one of Canada's greatest hard rocking bands. Additionally, by going to Triumph's new site, you'll be able to access the group's Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter pages, as well as the group's official YouTube page (comprised of kick-ass, vintage video clips), and the Triumph iLike page, where you can purchase downloads of Triumph music. As the site content continues to grow, Triumph fans will be treated to exclusive free music downloads, a monthly newsletter, fan forum, and online store featuring rare merchandise bundles, including t-shirts, signed CDs, posters, videos, etc., among other goodies. Right now, there are a total of four "bundles" for sale. There are three different bundles for the 'Greatest Hits' release (including a "digital bundle" , a "classic bundle" and a "deluxe bundle" ), as well as a "limited edition bundle" for the bands classic 1977 release, 'Rock & Roll Machine' (a release that celebrated its 33rd anniversary of release this past November). On December 3, Frontiers Records released, in Europe only, official reissues of Triumph's ten classic albums, in digipak version and with the original track listings. These albums include 'In The Beginning' (1976), 'Rock and Roll Machine' (1977), 'Just a Game' (1979), 'Progressions of Power' (1980), 'Allied Forces' (1981), 'Never Surrender' (1983), 'Thunder Seven' (1984), 'Stages (Live)' (1985), 'The Sport of Kings' (1986), and 'Surveillance' (1987). The CDs have been remastered and have an extensive booklet including lyrics. For the serious Triumph fan, Frontiers has released, also in Europe only, a very limited edition collector's Box Set, entitled 'Diamond Collection,' which will include all the 10 albums in vinyl replica, featuring the artwork from the original vinyl editions of the albums. By special arrangement, the Triumph online store has imported 300 Box Sets that are available for sale in North America. The Box Sets are numbered and will not be sold anywhere else. Keep an eye on www.TriumphMusic.com and visit it frequently, as you never know what surprises, exclusive content, and sales may lay in store for you. And always remember...Fight The Good Fight!" JIMI JAMISON CD DEAL: Buy any other CD with a Jimi Jamison/Jim Peterik Extra Moments CD on www.sweetsounds.us and receive one FREE Legendary Scorpion Drummer Herman Rarebell's band HZG world tour short sleeve tee shirt (L-XL or 2XL) for their upcoming February World Tour. This is a must have for true Scorpion fans!!!!! See shirt on www.sweetsounds.us. "THE TOUCH" ROCK BAND VIDEO CONTEST: Los Angeles, 2010 – Stan Bush's timeless hit The Touch is now available for Rock Band! Bush has partnered with The Authority Inc. and the Rock Band Network to create "The Touch" Video Contest! "The Touch" Video Contest challenges participants to create any kind of video – from live action to animation – that makes reference to both "The Touch" and the Rock Band game (any version) The subject matter is completely up to the participant(s). Videos to be considered for the contest must be created and uploaded no later than January 11th, 2011 and can be hosted on any site of the participant's choosing (YouTube, dailymotion, Vimeo, etc.) Judging of the videos and the three top winners will be handled by Stan Bush himself! The grand prize for "The Touch" Video Contest is a complete set of Stan Bush CD's, each personally autographed by the artist. Runners up will receive CD's and/or a Stan Bush t-shirt. Complete rules for the competition can be seen here: www.authoritymusic.com/rules.html To submit your entry for consideration in "The Touch" Video Contest, send an email to contest@authoritymusic.com containing your full name, e-mail address and the URL of your completed video no later than January 11th, 2011. Winners will be contacted via e-mail. Also coming in 2011, the Rock Band Network release of Stan Bush's "Til All Are One" from the hit video game Transformers: War for Cybertron! Plus, Stan teams with "The Touch" co-writer Lenny Macaluso once again for the forthcoming single "Heat of the Battle," available soon for digital download. One other note: a special reissue of the original classic "Stan Bush & Barrage" album, featuring "The Touch" and "Love Don't Lie", is now available at stanbush.com! A NEW HOME FOR TERJE EIDE: Welcome to the brand NEW official music page of Terje Eide on Facebook. This will be the main official site on Facebook for Terje Eide and his music. It will include News, Music, Videos, Photos and much more...Terje Eide Official Music Page on Facebook: www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Terje-Eide/177804195563257.   MELODIC BRIEFS: One for Quiet Riot fans to check out: interstatelive.com/Quiet-Riot-is-back.html. A lovely interview with Eric Martin can be found at: metalshrineblogg.blogspot.com/2010/12/intervju-med-eric-martin-i-mr-big-for.html#links. Eric talks about the new Mr. Big, being back together again, working with Kevin Shirley, his "audition" for Van Halen, meeting Bon Scott, having Elvis Costello yelling "Piss off!" to him, his brief stint w/Toto and lots more. Alyson from www.metalmessiahradio.com is doing an interview with Harry Hess from Harem Scarem/First Signal which will be on her show on Thursday December 16. It airs from 7pm EST-9pm EST. Tune in at: www.metalmessiahradio.com.

 

 

Tuesday, December 07, 2010

JOHN WAITE'S ROUGH & TUMBLE ­ AN EXHILARATING RETURN: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release in Europe of John Waite's new studio album entitled Rough & Tumble on January 21, 2011. Waite's anticipated new release follows 2007's Downtown…Journey of Heart and shows a new and fresh side of the British singer/songwriter's creative output. Part of the album was recorded in Nashville. The record wrapped with a spirited studio session in Los Angeles with the members of his touring band. Waite says of Rough & Tumble: "As much as I feel the release of the live album, In Real Time, last May was a defining moment and as much as I have enjoyed playing those songs, I consider this album a new beginning. I approached this project with an entirely different ambition musically than I've had in the past. It's the first record I've made that I think is made up of singles. All 12 tracks are contenders. They're all alive in their own way. I'm not really sure what the energy is behind the songs, but there is a real kind of velocity in the album where we just picked up speed and kept going. We just wanted to play and win." A good portion of Rough & Tumble was written and produced in a sweet pocket of creativity enjoyed over the past year and a half with Matchbox Twenty lead guitarist/songwriter Kyle Cook, who Waite met through a mutual friend. "It's pretty much extraordinary," Waite says about the material he created for the new album. "It's not like what people would expect from me. It's a step to the left. There's a rock imprint on the music and a melodic presence, but it's just shifted gears. It's an extreme record. It has an identity and a philosophy of its own, which is really fresh for me." The Waite/Cook collaboration has proved to be nothing short of phenomenal, as evidenced by songs like "Evil" (a thumping rocker-meets-dance-club tour de force), "Better Off Gone" (a hook-laced better-off-on-the-open-road anthem), the deep groove-laden "Love's Goin' Out of Style" and the soaring magic ballad "If You Ever Get Lonely". "I'm not saying it's high art, but genuinely speaking, it's fantastic for me," Waite says, reflecting on his new music. "I certainly am interested in spending the rest of my life doing something creative rather than just living in the past". On Rough & Tumble, Waite also managed to keep the rougher live rock edge that shines through on In Real Time alive and well. The no-holds-barred, riff-ready title track and the driving renditions of "Sweet Rhode Island Red" (a Tina Turner number) and "Mr. Wonderful" (a new take on a hidden gem originally included on his debut solo album, Ignition) are set to shake heads during the next tour. The melodies of the amazing "Shadows of Love" are yet another highlight of Waite's new superbly varied and interesting musical statement. Rough & Tumble final track listing includes: Rough & Tumble, Shadows of Love, Evil, If You Ever Get Lonely, Skyward, Sweet Rhode Island Red, Love's Goin' Out of Style; Better Off Gone, Further The Sky, Peace of Mind, Mr. Wonderful, Hanging Tree. The songs "Shadows of Love" and "If You Ever Get Lonely" can be listened to in full exclusively on the Frontiers Web Radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. The first single "Shadows of Love" is available NOW for digital purchase! Weblinks: www.johnwaite.com (The All New Official John Waite Page Coming Soon) / johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl / www.myspace.com/johnwaite / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords. Musicians: John Waite ­ Vocals Luis Maldonado ­ Electric & Acoustic Guitar on "Rough & Tumble," "Shadows Of Love," "Skyward," "Sweet Rhode Island Red," "Mr. Wonderful" Tim Hogan ­ Low End on "Rough & Tumble," "Shadows Of Love," "Skyward," "Sweet Rhode Island Red," "Mr. Wonderful," "Further The Sky" Billy Wilkes ­ Drums/Percussion on "Rough & Tumble," "Shadows Of Love," "Skyward," "Sweet Rhode Island Red," "Mr. Wonderful" Kyle Cook ­ Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Programming & Harmony Vocals on "Evil,", "If You Ever Get Lonely," "Love's Goin' Out of Style," "Better Off Gone," "Peace of Mind"; Keys on "Evil," "If You Ever Get Lonely" & "Love's Goin' Out Of Style" David Santos ­ Bass Guitar on "If You Ever Get Lonely," "Love's Goin' Out of Style," "Better Off Gone," "Peace of Mind" Mike Webb ­ Hammond B3 on "Shadows of Love," "Skyward," "Sweet Rhode Island Red," "Further The Sky" Fred Eltringham ­ Drums/Percussion on "If You Ever Get Lonely," "Love's Goin' Out of Style," "Better Off Gone," "Peace of Mind" Shane Fontayne ­ Electric & Acoustic Guitar on "Further The Sky," Acoustic & Baritone Guitar on "Hanging Tree" Rodger Carter ­ Drums/Percussion on "Further The Sky" Bobby Keys ­ Saxophone on "Love's Goin' Out of Style" Jennifer Paige ­ Background Vocals on "If You Ever Get Lonely" & "Better Off Gone"   xx AVENUE OF ALLIES - ARTIST & RELEASE UPDATES: Press Release / "Following the release of our latest albums by Fabri Kiareli's F.E.A.S.T., Perfect View and Fire in October, the label is currently putting the finishing touches to the first releases for 2011. Meanwhile members of the bands Shining Line, Skill In Veins, Wheels Of Fire and label manager Gregor Klee met in the North of Italy on the Lake Como for a classy Italian dinner and a short trip to Milan to visit the famous Domo and to check out the local record stores.   On the bands websites you can find the latest reviews and news including information about upcoming live dates, the brand new line-up of Skill in Veins and the Japanese Edition of Wheels Of Fire, including two brand new bonus tracks (released in Japan through Bickee Music / Happinet on November 24): www.myspace.com/shiningline / www.skillinveins.com / www.wheels-of-fire.com. In further news Fabri Kiareli's F.E.A.S.T., Skill in Veins and Perfect View recently completed interviews with the renowned Dutch website Lords Of Metal. You can read the interviews here: Fabri Kiareli's F.E.A.S.T.: www.lordsofmetal.nl/showinterview.php?id=3609&lang=en Skill in Veins: www.lordsofmetal.nl/showinterview.php?id=3403&lang=en Perfect View: www.lordsofmetal.nl/showinterview.php?id=3598&lang=en To conclude today news round-up we'd like to present you a clip from the energetic live performance of "Dangerous Love" by Fabri Kiareli's F.E.A.S.T. on October 29: www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=rXy2UDuMvkM.   The next news update from Avenue of Allies will present the first four albums of the coming year, due on January 28, 2011. The outlook on the new year is very promising and the schedule will be kicked off by the smokin' hot albums of Miss Behaviour, Hell In The Club, Moritz and Danger Zone. Have a Rockin' Good Christmas time, Gregor Klee." - Avenue Of Allies / www.avenue-of-allies.com. TOKYO BLADE RETURNS WITH NEW LINE-UP: The newly revamped lineup of the NWOBHM band Tokyo Blade — featuring 4 members from the classic Night Of The Blade line up in Andy Boulton (guitar) guitarist John Wiggins (Paul Di'anno's Battlezone/Deep Machine/Slam), bassist Andy Wrighton (Deep Machine/Shogun) and drummer Steve Pierce (Shogun), alongside new singer Nicolaj "Nick" Ruhnow (Irony, Voivittu, Domain, Hellfort) — have signed with Sony/Fastball Records and will release its new album, tentatively titled "1000 Men Strong", in February 2011. The CD is being helmed by veteran British producer Chris Tsangarides, who has previously worked with Thin Lizzy, Y&T, Free, Black Sabbath, Ian Gillan, Judas Priest, Ozzy Osbourne and Anvil, among others. Video footage from the new line ups debut at the Heavy Metal Maniacs Festival can be viewed below. Black Abysss (New Song) - www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pGHnjaKQUs Lightning Strikes - www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXwYhqPj3Sw Commented the band: "We are treating ['1000 Men Strong'] as [our] third album, or the third album that should have been, so to speak. We view it as the natural follow-up to [1984's] 'Night Of The Blade' as the songs hark back to the glory days of NWOBHM. We have deliberately recorded the whole thing in a very live manner in just over a week (real time) as albums were recorded [back in the early '80s]. No keyboards, no bullshit — just 100% heavy metal helped considerably by the talent of our new vocalist, Nicolaj, and classic heavy metal producer Chris Tsangarides." The band have also confirmed live appearances at Headbangers Open Air 2011 and Rocktower Festival 2011 with more dates currently being arranged. Tokyo Blade's current lineup is: Andy Boulton (guitar), John Wiggins (guitar), Andy Wrighton (bass), Steve Pierce (drums), Nicolaj "Nick" Ruhnow (vocals). For all information go to the bands official website at: www.tokyoblade.com. NEW LIBERTY & JUSTICE EP READY FOR DOWNLOAD: Liberty N' Justice is trying to create awareness of epilepsy and raise money for research to find a cure. The disease hits very close to home for Justin Murr and his family. Justin's oldest daughter, Trinity Paige Murr, was diagnosed with epilepsy at age 7. For the past five years she has battled through daily medication, hospital stays, cluster seizures, induced comas, three weeks in the ICU ­ and finally brain surgery. To raise awareness, Murr got together with Vic Rivera and wrote 5 songs from a perspective of what he saw his daughter going through, his love for her, doubting his own faith, and where his relationship with his wife was at the time. Murr states, "I held nothing back in the lyrics and wanted people to see what this disease was doing to my family and my heart really wants to raise awareness and help other families going through the same thing." Donate $7.50 or more and you will be able to download this new LNJ EP while helping a great cause. Donations will be made to The Epilepsy Foundation in Trinity's name. Donations can me made through LNJ's website at www.libertynjustice.net. All the musicians and the cover artist (Rex Zachary) donated there time and talents to this EP. The track listing is... Say Uncle (Paul Shortino of Rough Cutt/Quiet Riot/King Kobra, Ron Keel of Keel, and Eddie Ojeda of Twisted Sister) Throwing Stones (Donnie Vie of Enuff Z' Nuff and JK Northrup) Paige's Song (Philip Bardowell of Magdalen/Unruly Child/The Beach Boys and Tony Palacios of Guardian) Playing God (Terry Ilous of XYZ, Jeff Paris and Richard Kendrick of Near Life Experience) Chasing A Cure (Benny Mardones, John Pine and Bill Leverty of Firehouse) Besides the new EP, LNJ has opened there own digital store (our complete discography including a newly released album Here: LNJ demos and unreleased songs) through there website and any album or song bought between now and Feb 14,11. LNJ will donate those proceeds as well. You can check out a video featuring Trinity Murr at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gclYSY6MPw. Please help us spread the word about this project...We hope even if you don't like this style of music you would consider making a donation for a great cause and "pray" we stop chasing and start catching the cure for epilepsy!   ANNUAL VENICE CHRISTMAS CONCERT REPORT: Last Saturday night, Venice used a day off from their performing duties as the backup singers on Roger Waters' "The Wall" tour to stage their annual Venice Christmas Concert in Santa Monica, CA. In attendance was the entirety of Waters' touring band. After delivering a blistering two hour set, Venice surprised the crowd at their first encore by returning to the stage with Robbie Wykoff, Harry Waters, Dave Kilminster, GE Smith, Graham Broad and Jon Joyce. They proceeded to perform "Goodbye Blue Sky," "Comfortably Numb" and a medley consisting of Stevie Wonder's "Superstition," David Bowie's "Fame," Peter Gabriel's "Sledgehammer" and the Rolling Stones' "It's Only Rock and Roll (But I Like It)." The excitement and enthusiasm from the sold out crowd practically tore the roof off. Here's a clip: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KwbFf3rBO8. STREET SYMPHONIES RECORDS PRESENTS POMPEI NIGHTS: Street Symphonies Records is proud to present the Swedish band Pompei Nights, whose debut album, still without a title, will be released in 2011. Young, good-looking and rebel, Pompei Nights isn't surely the nth sleaze band from the Scandinavian wave willing to try, without success, to write a new Appetite For Destruction or Girls Girls Girls. Their is on the contrary a modern hard rock that moves with the times, with two sharp guitars, a thumping rhythm section and a voice maybe a bit mould-breaker, but that won't definitely pass unnoticed! Born just one year ago in Stockholm, Sweden, Pompei Nights have already a goal clear in mind: to conquer the most prestigious stages to the sound of rock'n'roll. The album will be anticipated by the release of the promo single "Midnight Mistress" that will also include another track, "I Want It". Pompei Nights: remember this name, they are the next big thing! Pompei Nights: Joey Eden - Vocals, Olli Cox - Lead Guitar, Matt Cosby - Lead Guitar, Rob Cold - Bass, Devlin - Drums. www.myspace.com/pompeinights / www.streetsymphonies.com. CINEMATIC DOCUMENT OF GERMAN PROG ROCK BAND ELOY TO BE RELEASED: 12/6/2010 – Germany – In celebration of their 40 year band history, a new cinematic document of Germany's most successful progressive rock band Eloy take the friends of their music on a journey through four decades of the band's fascinating history. In the 90-minute documentary Mighty Echoes (DVD 1) former and current Eloy musicians (Frank Bornemann, Klaus-Peter Matziol, Jurgen Rosenthal, Hannes Folberth, Michael Gerlach, Fritz Randow, Hannes Arkona) talk about their time and work with Eloy. Likewise engineers, product managers and other important companions of the band also have their say. All phases are documented and enhanced with previously unpublished pictures making this the definitive documentary of the legendary German ensemble. On the clip compilation (DVD 2) there is an additional collection of old TV shows, live videos and promotional videos, such as The Midnight Fight, The Sun Song, Decay of Logos, Silhouette and Voyager of the Future Race. The entire Eloy history, discography, pictures and more can be viewed at www.eloy-legacy.com. Frank Bornemann hand-signed copies of 'The Legacy Box' as well as new editions of T-Shirts, picture cards and stickers at our store: shop.rootbeat.de.

 

 

Monday, December 06, 2010

THE SCHEDULED RELEASE OF SOME 'LOST' MELODIC ROCK GEMS: Discussions have taken place between myself and Angelmilk Records owner Andy Bramhall in regards to the titles originally signed to that label during the time of our partnership together and how we can complete the job first started. I am very pleased to announce that we have worked out a plan and these albums will now finally find themselves released in the first half of 2011. MelodicRock Records will take over the release of these albums, in partnership with Andy's new studio venture Analogue Baby. All titles will be pressed, released, marketed and sold through the established MelodicRock Records channels. Andy Bramhall sent in this message for all that have followed news of these releases: "Hello melodicrock.com, Andrew and myself have finally got our heads together to get theses titles out there for you guys, we both feel that all these titles deserve the right to be heard by all on here. Its a collaboration between 2 people that really haven't seen eye to eye over a lot of things over the past 2 years... I've infuriated him many times over a lot of things - BUT, we're still talking on the phone and still finding time for a laugh or two, this is good. Andy is running the site and trying to get MRR off the ground and I'm busy building (two thirds of the way done) what we believe here to be one of the finest stereo and 5.1 mix environments in the WORLD. The studio is called "Analogue Baby" and its the real deal, featuring a brand new 60 Channel NEVE 88RS large format analogue console in a perfect acoustic space, the 500 sq ft control room with 16ft ceilings has been designed by Roger D'arcy of Recording Architecture, many high profile music mix projects and computer game projects will be done here in 2011 (unfortunately no MR) so I'll drop in from time to time and keep you all posted. The web address is www.analoguebaby.com just a holding page at the moment but things are getting there on the site. We'll be helping each other out in the future I have no doubt, and I'm sure there will be some new music coming out of our place with the MRR and Analogue Baby name on it (mixed in the studios down time periods)....he sniggers....we'll keep you all posted on that I'm sure... Enjoy the music and thanks for listening. All the best to you and have a great Christmas...." The titles in question are: Chris Antblad - Century (debut solo album from former Spin Gallery vocalist - classic AOR with modern touches) Andreas Novak - Novakation (new solo album from former Mind's Eye and new House Of Shakira vocalist - classic style melodic rock with modern touch) Infinity - Infinity (Pre-cursor to Red Dawn - Archive release of unreleased mid-80s project featuring Mitch Malloy and David Rosenthal) Rick Springfield Tribute - Featuring various rockers; 7th heaven, Gary Schutt, Eric Martin, Mitch Malloy, Vinny Burns, American Anthem, Thom Griffin & Hardway, James Christian and many more... Nexx - Another Dawn (Spanish Version) and Colours (Re-Mixed & Re-Mastered Version) Vox Tempus - In The Eye Of Time (Re-Mastered Version)(Digital Release Only) There will also be fresh (brand new/sealed) copies made available of the first three Angelmilk titles - Alias - Never Say Never; Poley/Rivera - Only Human and Nexx - Another Dawn (English Version). All titles will be available on CD via mail-order, wholesale/retail outlets and also via Digital Release. An idea of possible release dates and further details about each individual release will be posted later this week. Personally....I thank Andy for his co-operation and original belief in these titles, which I remain very proud of...and very excited by. Despite being temporarily 'lost', I'm confident these titles will feature on many 2011 Best Of lists. Stay tuned!   xx FRONTIERS RECORDS ANNOUNCES THE NEW NORTH AMERICAN DISTRIBUTOR: Frontiers Records is proud to announce the signing of a new Distribution Agreement for its label products with EMI Music Distribution in North America. The new Agreement will be effective from January 1st 2011 and marks a "huge step forward in the label's expansion strategy" ­ as stated by Frontiers President, Serafino Perugino. EMI Music will distribute physical product from Frontiers Records in the United States of America and Canada. Plans are already underway to expand the territorial areas of partnership. "We are happy that Frontiers Records have chosen us to partner with to release some of the greatest rock bands of all time - on their label you will find greats such as Whitesnake, Asia and Yes" said EMI's Executive VP / General Manager Mike Harris. "True classic rock artists that have sold millions of records worldwide. We look forward to a very rewarding relationship and know we will see true success in 2011." Frontiers has recently announced the new partnership with Derek Shulman and 2Plus Music Entertainment who will oversee the label development and marketing over the North American market in conjunction with the EMI team in New York. Shulman said: "Our friends at EMI are all real music enthusiasts and we are looking forward to a long and fruitful relationship with them. The North American Frontiers team is gearing up for the first quarter release, which includes new music from Mr. Big, Nelson and Whitesnake". The first releases which will be distributed with the new set up in January 2011 will be the recent Yoso debut "Elements", the Allen Lande hit album "The Showdown", along with Nelson's recent comeback "Lightning Strikes Twice" and Mr. Big's forthcoming "What If...". The first quarter release plan shall be officially announced shortly. In related Frontiers news - New first hand information on the new John Waite single Shadows Of Love from the upcoming Rough and Tumble album, plus John's notes on this song can be read now at: johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl/johnwaitethegreatest/2010/12/new-single-release-for-john-waite-shadow-of-love.html.   NEW ALYSON AVENUE DUE IN 2011: Niclas Olsson sent in this long awaited update: The new Alyson Avenue album is taking shape and lead vocals are now recorded on almost every song. Arabella has done a really great job. It's some very melodic stuff but more versatile than on our previous album. Fredrik Bergh and I have written one track together and Michael Bormann is doing a duet together with Arabella on a semi-ballad. I have also started to record the new Second Heat album together with the band and we have nailed two songs that sounds incredible fresh. 11 new songs will be recorded. Another album that we just do for the fun of it with influences from new and old heroes in rock music. The difference this time is that we will probably do some shows after the release. WebLinks: alysonavenue.se. MELODIC BRIEFS: James LaBrie: "Dream Theater Will Still Go On Forward And Be Strong And Come Out With Incredible Music": www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/James-LaBrie. Gene Simmons interviewed on CNN: edition.cnn.com/video/?/video/showbiz/2010/12/02/behar.gene.simmons.hln. Michael Brandvold has posted another new archive interview online: "While in college radio at KGMA at Mankato State University I did a phone interview with Poison lead singer Bret Michaels shortly after their debut album Look What The Cat Dragged In was released. Bret discusses their touring at the time, filming of videos, the history and influence of the band and more. This might be the first time it has been heard. Note there is about eight seconds of silence at the start of the recording. Interview with Poison lead singer Bret Michaels, April 17, 1987 Part One - 22 Minutes. Part two of this interview will be posted next week: michaelbrandvold.com/blog/2010/12/radio-interview-with-poison-lead-singer-bret-michaels-from-1987. POLEY BRIEFS: Sydney based rock fan and part time Journo Giles conducted a video interview with Ted Poley for a YouTube channel called 'Schitzophonic Media'. Ted discusses, D2, Prophet, Solo, touring, even his work on the Sonic Hedgehog soundtrack CD. Check it out at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=4h0w9sy5OwY / www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhkaQzrIcfY. Clips of the new Ted Poley Band in Sweden @ Klubben can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZD-Rr0__ic / www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEeoa8Th-WU / www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjwCc9dsk-k / www.youtube.com/watch?v=6SmMiqUgW7c.

 

 

Friday, December 03, 2010

KEVIN SHIRLEY TALKS MR. BIG, JOURNEY AND MORE: Producer Kevin Shirley was recently interviewed by Music Radar, covering his work with Iron maiden, Black Country Communion and of course, his current work on new albums with Mr. Big and Journey. The full interview can be found here: www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/producer-kevin-shirley-on-joe-bonamassa-iron-maiden-led-zeppelin-316822/3. Shirley on Mr. Big: I mean, you take a band like Mr Big. There's such an amazing depth of talent in that band, and the same goes for Journey and Maiden and all these guys. They're brilliant. The trick, for me, is to make them feel like they're 19 again." And how do you do that? "By getting them to write great songs and not be too clever with their musicianship. Stop thinking about the press and the reviewers. Do it for the right reasons. Make music to pull chicks and stop worrying about turning on the Steely Dan guys." On Journey's Trial By Fire album: Still, that had to be difficult when you worked with Journey hooking back up with Steve Perry - there was so much acrimony between everybody at the time. "Well, there wasn't when I worked with them. To be brutally honest, I had never even heard Journey until I started working with them. I didn't know a thing about them. [Former A&R exec] John Kalodner called me to his office and he played me Separate Ways, and he asked me what I thought, and I said, 'There's a lot of reverb on that.' And that was my only comment. But when I got together with the band, I wasn't starstruck or anything. We went to work in a warehouse for six weeks, and we fine-tuned every drum fill and turnaround. They had a good time. They were Journey again. It was fantastic." Did you have the feeling that Steve Perry and drummer Steve Smith were going to quit again? Which, of course, they did. "No, I didn't. But you know, Steve Perry developed, and he reached the point where he…you know, people's voices change. You look at a guy like Robert Plant, who's doing his Alison Krauss thing now. In 1969 he was doing the Whole Lotta Love Thing, and he just doesn't do that anymore. Same thing with Steve Perry, who probably struggles to do Open Arms now. He was probably scared to go out there and have trouble doing what people wanted." On recent studio work with Journey: How has it been producing Journey's current lineup with their new singer, Arnel Pineda? Does it get tougher with a heritage act as the years go by? "Uh…it gets tougher when somebody in the band is frustrated. And there are frustrations in this band, for sure." Can you elaborate? "Well…it's probably not the right time for me to do so, especially when we're finishing up a record. But it's not easy trying to make a record when there are opposing forces in the band. There's people who want to be in a heavy rock band, and there's people who want to have hit ballads. It's just a matter of who stamps their feet the loudest." There was a rumor going around recently that Steve Perry wanted back in. "Well, that's just that - a rumor. But I can tell you he's still a key component of the decision-making part of the band. Nothing gets played or released without Steve Perry signing off on it. I'm not privy to the details of their arrangement, but I can tell you this: if Steve Perry wanted to be back singing with Journey, everybody would find a way to make that happen." You had glowing things to say about Mr Big. What were they like in the studio? They had a bit of a rough breakup before this reunion. "This was my first time working with them, but I thought they were terrific. We had two weeks in the studio, not a lot of time, but it forced me to capture them playing live and getting a lot of energy - which definitely happened. Musically, they were much more like a Stone Temple Pilots band than, say…you know, hair metal of the '80s. They were hungry and ready to go, and I think the results speak for themselves." INXS SINGER TEAMS UP WITH IRON MAIDEN'S ADRIAN SMITH: QMI Agency is reporting that J.D. Fortune is writing new material with Iron Maiden guitarist Adrian Smith. The Canadian singer, who replaced the late Michael Hutchence after winning the Rock Star reality TV show in 2005, also says that one of their songs has been picked up by Jerry Bruckheimer for an undisclosed film project. As for Inxs, Fortune is back on the road with the Australian band after it was widely reported that he had been fired. "We had just got off tour and we took a break," said Fortune. "And in that break, things got misconstrued. We were not able to communicate with each other -- we live 12,000 kilometres apart." Fortune reunited with the band to perform at the Vancouver Olympic Games earlier this year, followed by shows in Australia. He is reportedly working on new material with them now. "We got together after the show in Melbourne and just started jamming. And all the sparks went off -- it was like fireworks and bells and whistles. We all went, 'Awesome. Let's keep doing this.' The possibilities are endless. It's really exciting. I'm just honored to be fronting the band again." WebLink: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/inxs-1202. VOICES OF RAINBOW - LIVE IN JAPAN - IN PICTURES: Jesús García Forés from City Of Dreams website was the only western press in place for the Voices Of Rainbow tour in Japan recently. He was in Tokyo and Fireworks magazine has his exclusive review and some photos for the December magazine. But you can check out a full concert photo album at: www.cityofdreamsweb.com. Tour Link: www.zak.co.jp/artest/2010/rainbow/rainbow.html. Joe Lynn Turner was backed by his Japanese band, which has accompanied him on other Japanese shows: Akira Kajiyama on guitars, Toshio Egawa on keyboards, Atsushi Hasegawa on bass and on drums, Kenichi Fujimoto. This was the band also used by Doogie White to perform some Rainbow classics, while Graham Bonnet appeared with Alcatrazz, with his set-list alternating between songs from his Rainbow days and Alcatrazz classics. This line-up was Howie Simon on guitar, Tim on bass and Jeff Luce Bowders on drums. SWEDEN ROCK FESTIVAL ADDS JOAN JETT: Joan Jett entered rock history in 1975 when she co-founded The Runaways - the world's first successful all-female rock band. The Runaways folded in 1979 and Joan, the band's front woman and guitarist, started a solo career and then a new band, The Blackhearts. The cognoscenti predicted a colossal fiasco, but had to eat crow big time when Joan Jett and the Blackheart's "I Love Rock 'n' Roll" became a monumental hit in 1982. Over the years, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts have released a total of 12 studio albums in their own right, crammed with raw garage-rock in a Hard Rock package. Apart from the abovementioned super hit, "Bad Reputation", "Crimson and Clover", "Do You Wanna Touch", "Light of Day", and "I Hate Myself for Loving You" also rank among her most revered numbers. This is actually the first time the iconic rock 'n' roll heroine visits SRF - could it be the beginning of a beautiful friendship? promises to be a fascinating experience. WebLink: www.swedenrock.com. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new features: - Aerosmith - Live 1986 - Poison - Best Of Live - Van Halen - Best Of Balance Live 1995 - Ozzy Osbourne - Live In Japan 1998 MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, December 02, 2010

ROLL UP, ROLL UP...: Well, it's December 2, so it's officially the Silly Season, so I can start flogging merch along with every other man and his dog. I've rolled out a couple of special offers and hope they might appeal to all. Reader support is vital for this site's existence, especially in the current upheaval that is the music industry. First - what better present to give rock n rolling members of your family and circle of friends, than a PayPal Gift Voucher to spend in the MelodicRock/MelodicRock Records Store! Nominate any amount you like, pay and then present to anyone for use in the store. Voucher number is added at check out time. Titles include the current MRR releases and all MRCD volumes.   The perfect way to rock out at Christmas is with MRCD6 - We Will Rock Yule. There are limited numbers left of this Christmas compilation, which for this occasion has been discounted to $9.00 + shipping. Limited numbers...limited time only!   If you have not yet purchased MRCD7 - Forces Of Dark & Light, for this limited time and via this link only, you can get both MRCD7 and MRCD6 sent together for $30! That's $22 + $8 shipping. 2 CDs/ 3 Discs for just $30.   xx UFO - NEW STUDIO ALBUM DUE IN JUNE 2011 ON SPV/STEAMHAMMER: The initial dates for UFO's 2011 North American tour have just been revealed. The band will be touring North America in support of their latest studio effort which is slated to be released in June 2011 via SPV/Steamhammer. The East Coast leg of the tour will kick off May 11, 2011 at Bourbon Street in Baltimore, MD. The following are a list of all confirmed dates as of now: May 11, 2011 - Baltimore, MD @ Bourbon Street May 13, 2011 - New York, NY @ BB Kings May 14, 2011 - Foxboro, MA (Boston) @ The Showcase Live May 20, 2011 - Chicago, IL @ The Arcada Theater May 21, 2011 - Chicago, IL @ The Aracada Theater Expect more dates for the East Coast leg of the tour to be announced in the coming days and an announcement will be coming soon about the West Coast leg of the tour slated to kick off in September. UFO's latest two releases 2009's "The Visitor" and 2010's "Best of a Decade" are available now via SPV/Steamhammer. True rock legends such as UFO are characterized not only by the fact that they have added several classic anthems to the annals of rock history, but that their musical output, after many years, still remains at such a consistently high level and they always have something new and fresh coming up. With classic albums such as "Phenomenon", "Force it" and "No Heavy Pettin" Phil Mogg, Vinnie Moore, Andy Parker and Paul Raymond still sound vital and imaginative to this day. Visit UFO and SPV on the web: www.ufo-music.info / www.myspace.com/spvmusic. MELODIC BRIEFS: Sammy Hagar Talks Autobiography, Cabo Wabo: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/sammy-hagar-1201. Lars Ulrich Still Loves Metallica's Death Magnetic: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/metallica-1130. MetalSymphony.com has uploaded photos of Pretty Maids November 20, 2010 concert at Sala Heineken in Madrid, Spain. Also available are pictures of support act Arkania. Check them out at this location: www.metalsymphony.com/galeria/thumbnails.php?album=302. Pretty Maids 's set list was as follows: Pandemonium, I.N.V.U., Wake up to the real World, Walk Away, Savage Heart, It comes at Night, Queen of Dreams, Cielo Drive, Back to Back, Rodeo, Please Don't Leave Me - John Sykes, Love Games, Future World, Little Drops Of Heaven, Red, Hot And Heavy. Takara's last show - complete set of songs: www.youtube.com/user/Takararocks. During December ONLY - get both Line Of Fire albums at a special price @ Tribunal E_Store! Momentum - $10.99 Line Of Fire (Deluxe Reissue) - $6.99: tribunalrecords.bigcartel.com/artist/line-of-fire. PJ Rautiainen Secret Isle interview by Urban "Wally" Wallstrom, RockUnited.com: www.rockunited.com. Shockwaves/HardRadio Podcast #48: On this episode host Bob Nalbandian interviews renowned vocalist David Reece (Bangalore Choir, Accept, Sircle of Silence). Currently residing in Germany, David recently reformed the great late '80s blues-based hard rock band Bangalore Choir who just released their new CD Cadence. Also on this episode is a fantastic interview with guitarist Andy Charters and vocalist Nige Roberts of the legendary and pioneering NWOBHM band Marseille who also recently reformed and recorded their new CD Unfinished Business. Direct Link to All Episodes: www.hardradio.com/shockwaves/podcasts/podcast1.xml. WILL WALLNER & VIVIEN VAIN ANNOUNCE DEBUT ALBUM FEATURING LEGENDARY MUSICIANS: Los Angeles based hard rock artists Will Wallner (Guitarist) & Vivien Vain (Vocalist) announce debut album featuring an all-star line up of guest musicians. The duo have written and recorded several songs and are in the process of recording the final tracks for their debut release. The project began when Wallner/Vain had a chance meeting with Carmine Appice (Blue Murder / King Kobra) and Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath / Dio) at the Rainbow Bar & Grill on the Sunset Strip. Half of the songs feature Carmine and half feature Vinny. Bassist Tony Franklin (Blue Murder / The Firm) plays alongside Carmine which reunites the duo who played together in the critically acclaimed Blue Murder. Vinny performs with bassist Jimmy Bain (Rainbow / Dio) who had previously played together in the classic line-up of Dio. Rudy Sarzo (Ozzy Osbourne / Quiet Riot) also plays on several tracks with Vinny. Guest musician Tony Carey (Rainbow / EBC) also plays on two tracks and reunites Carey with Jimmy Bain who last played together on Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow – Rising. Mixing the album is industry ppro Gary Tole who in addition to working with Bon Jovi and Metallica has worked with David Lee Roth and Joe Lynn Turner. Finally a song from Will Wallner's previous project with Keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater / Black Country Communion) will be included on the album. The song was produced by Derek and features Brian Tichy (Whitesnake / Pride & Glory) on drums with Tony Franklin. The album will be released sometime in 2011. For more information go to: www.wallnervain.com. Thanks for your time and consideration we would love to hear what you think of our music! OVERKILL SIDE PROJECT – THE BRONX CASKET CO. SIGNS TO eONE MUSIC: (New York, NY) — eOne Music has signed a world wide deal with NY rock band The Bronx Casket Co. "I am totally psyched to be working with eOne for the new Bronx Casket release! They did an amazing job with the Overkill record and I know they will do the same for this. Having a label home where people "get" it and are psyched to work a record is a great feeling", says front man DD Verni. The band originally formed in 1998 by Overkill co-founder and bassist DD Verni. Having played in one of the most respected thrash bands ever for over 2 decades, why have another band? Two reasons, states DD, "the challenge of writing interesting new material and for fun of course!" The bands second release caught the ear of playwright Andrea Lepcio. Soon after, Verni and Lepcio were collaborating with 3-time Tony Winner Hinton Battle to direct and choreograph. Soon the seeds of "The Bronx Casket Co., A New Musical" were planted. Verni quickly recruited several members from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra to perform. The cast consisted of performers from the Broadway shows Hairspray, Rent and Dance of the Vampire. There have been several performances off-Broadway for producers/backers and the show is still in the writing stages. It has a gothic/Broadway score with a twisted love story woven throughout. Songs from the first two Bronx Casket Co. releases are included in the show, as well as 13 new songs D.D. Verni penned just for the musical. It's been five years since The Bronx Casket Co. last released an album and has been well worth the wait. Verni concludes, "This Bronx Casket record is the best we have done, and we are looking forward to getting out on the road and doing some shows." As with every Bronx Casket Co. release, Verni has charted new territory, and stretched his writing boundaries. The Bronx Casket Co: DD Verni – Vocals & Bass, Jack Frost – guitars, Charlie Calv - keyboards, Rob Pallotta – drums, Michael Romeo – shredding guitar solos on new album - Antihero. Partial Track Listing For Antihero: Antihero, Bonesaw, Holy Mother, NYC (Devil's Playground), You Look Like Hell, I Never Loved You Anyway, Death On Two Legs (Queen cover song), My Way (Frank Sinatra cover song). WebLink: www.bronxcasketco.com. Left to right: Jack Frost/guitar, Rob Pallotta/drums, Charlie Calv/keyboards and DD Verni/vocals & bass.

 

 

Wednesday, December 01, 2010

GARY SCHUTT LAUNCHES HIS CONTINGENCY PLAN: Multi-instrumentalist/singer/songwriter Gary Schutt (Jeff Scott Soto Band) has his brand new solo album ready to roll. Contingency Plan will be released worldwide December 21. Members: Gary Schutt - lead guitar & lead vocal, Angelo Collura - drums & vocals, JR Williams - bass & vocals. Gary states: "This album of 11 brand new Heavy-Pop-Metal tunes continues in the path of 2002's Excruciating Pleasures. Very heavy guitar riffs, catchy vocal melodies and hooks, a perfect mix of old and new school rock, lyrics that everyone can relate to, and enough melodic shred guitar playing to keep the guitar enthusiasts entertained and the radio listeners tuned in! Check www.garyschutt.com frequently for details of distribution for physical CDs and digital downloads." See the below videos to sample Gary's magic.   DUNBAR ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS A VERY MERRY X-MASS: On December 1, 2010, Dunbar Entertainment will release A Very Merry X-Mass EP. an exclusive 2 Song Christmas CD featuring "Jingle Bell Rock" & "Grown Up Christmas List." All proceeds from the sales of this "X-Mass" CD will benefit the Toys For Tots foundation. Mass have had numerous accomplishments over the years, but most notably is the selling of over a half million albums. In 1985, Mass was signed to RCA records and released the album, New Birth. The single, Do You Love Me, was number one for over six weeks at many radio stations along the east coast. The video for that single was also in rotation on MTV and hit the Billboard charts. During the 1980’s, Mass went on to release Take You Home and Voices in the Night, which was produced by Michael Sweet of Stryper. These albums have been re-released on Retrospect Records. In July 2007, Mass released their comeback album, Crack of Dawn on Escape Music. 2010 has been a very productive year for the band. In May, the band released its new studio album Sea of Black via Escape Music. The band played several successful shows in support of Sea of Black, most notably the M3 Rock Festival in Columbia, Maryland along side such Classic Rock legends as the Scorpions, Cinderella, Vince Neil of Motley Crue and Kix. Mass also performed to a sold-out crowd at the legendary Regent Theater in their home state of Massachusetts, which was filmed for a DVD to be released by Dunbar Entertainment in early 2011. Most recently, Retroactive Records released the band's long-lost A&M Records release, Fighter and also reissued the band's 84 Unchained EP. Click Here for a free 60 sec song sample of "Grown Up Christmas List". "A Very Merry X-Mass" EP is only available exclusively at www.massrocks.com.   SINAI HIT THE STAGE FOR LIVE DEBUT: Sinai, the new rock band featuring former Shinedown and Silvertide guitarist, Nick Perri, former Silvertide & Automatic Fire vocalist Walt Lafty and former Jealousy Curve drummer Shane Rozum played their first show together at the legendary TLA in Philadelphia, PA as part of 93.3's WMMR's Gobblaroo. Video footage of Sinai performing "Can you hear me" and "Shake" on November 24, 2010 has been uploaded at www.sinaiband.com and www.youtube.com/sinaiband. SINAI is writing and recording their first album for a 2011 release. For more information, visit www.sinaiband.com. HELP TYRANT SAVE THE DEVIL: Tasmanian based, Australian 'old school' hard rock metal act, Tyrant – will release their new CD, the bands' 5th release titled, Save The Devil - has just been released. The new CD was recorded at Izaneer studios, in Tasmania and was engineered, mixed and produced by Brett Collidge. Collidge produced Tyrant vocalist, Neil Steel's other band project, Roadkill's debut CD, "God Bless America" in 2007. "Save The Devil" - track listing is: Intro (0:58), Courage Of The Heart (4:04), Lay Down The Law (4:36), Defenders Of The Faith ** (3:20), Devil Woman (4:56), Tumbling Down (4:15), Fire In The Sky ** (5:00), Young Blood (4:29), Killing Machine (4:30), Running From The Law ** (3:07). ** Demo versions of these songs are currently available at the bands ' my space page which differ from the above recordings! A track by track synopsis of the new CD is also available at Tyrant's my space page. Tyrant's new "Save The Devil" CD marks the first studio recording, to feature the latest line-up of the band who made their debut on the 2005 CD release, "Live Bootleg!" This will also be the first new Tyrant studio recording in 7 years, their last release being 2003's, "Thunder Down Under" album. Vocalist Neil Steel Wilson said, "It's taken a little longer than expected - no thanks to my car accident in August 2008 but the recording process was put back on track and the finish line, is finally here!" Initially, to be an EP to celebrate 25 years since Tyrant's debut release - the CD has now become a full length album instead! Steel added: "I think that the new CD is gonna be a real cracker and it's definitely going to surprise a lot of people! As a wise man once said: 'You either do it or you don't ' - this CD will show any who ever doubted my dedication to Tyrant and ass-kickin' old school metal!" A new song from the up-coming CD has been uploaded at the bands' my space page titled, 'Fire In The Sky' – which shows a less commercial feel and a non-standard type of arrangement, a more 'traditional' style. "The songs sound massive, the playing is second to none and the execution is truly awesome! TYRANT in 2010 is a far more metal sounding beast, than we were before and the band will absolutely 'kill' when they hit the stage later this year!" A track by track synopsis by vocalist, Neil Steel can be viewed at the Tyrant MySpace page. WebLink: www.myspace.com/tyrantaustralia.

 

 

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Styx Bassist Ricky Phillips Talks Grand Illusion/Pieces of Eight Tour and More - Hardrock Haven had the privilege of speaking with Styx bassist Ricky Phillips after the opening night of The Grand Illusion/Pieces Of Eight Tour. In this exclusive interview Ricky gives the readers a detailed look into the making of one of the most anticipated tours of the season. HRH: Ricky, Thank you for checking in with Hardrock Haven. Styx recently kicked off The Grand Illusion/Pieces Of Eight Tour. How did opening night go? What were some of the highlights? Ricky: The highlights were remembering the songs. (Laughter) We are actually doing a lot of material in the set that we haven't played in ages, and some stuff that Styx that has never performed. We have got such a comfortable place in our set where we are running around jumping off the drum riser, summersaults all kind of crazy stuff onstage. Now all of a sudden we got to stop and think there are moments when I got lead boots and I am just standing there going oh my God what is next? But it gives it a great energy. I have to say last night's show had such an undercurrent of intensity that we talked about afterwards that we got offstage. There is a very cool vibe. There is a different type of audience coming to this. More of the audio file type of audience and we like that. It is fun to see and fun to feel. It is not so immediate of people just jumping up and down and rocking out for no apparent reason. It is people who are checking it out and us out in the process. It was a great show and good fun. To read the entire interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/ricky-phillips-of-styx/. Steve Summers from Pretty Boy Floyd was interviewed from Skylight Webzine about past & present of the band... He talks about the first days in MCA Records, the Sunset Strip Era, Reality Shows, Kristy Majors, etc. Read the full interview here: www.skylight.gr/index.php. Rocknation interviews Alice Cooper guitarist Keri Kelli. Keri talks about Alice Cooper tour with Rob Zombie and Murderdolls. Keri also talks about the highlights of his AC/DC tour with Slash and Big Bang Babies one of his first bands in Hollywood. Rocknation also interviewed Seventh Rize vocalist Stacy "Big Daddy" Humphries. Stacy fills in the details with Jeff LaBar of Cinderalla fame performing on guitar with their latest Texas concert opening for Lou Gramm. Stacy also talks about the 'Brother In Arms" tour with Mark Slaughter. Both audio interviews can be heard on Rocknation Radio player at: www.rocknation.us. MELODIC BRIEFS: A couple of news items from Gibson.com - Jason Bonham Reflects on His Own Led Zeppelin Experience (www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/jason-bonham-1129) and Paul Rodgers Plots 2011 Tour (www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/paul-rodgers-1129). The first official music video for the new Myon single is finally ready, preview it from this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=kszpII4k-Ic. RHINO BUCKET TAKE ON EUROPE: Rhino Bucket European Tour Dates - More info at: www.teenageheadmusic.com. 6/1/2011 Verviers - Belgium @ Spirit of '66 7/1/2011 Kerkrade - Holland @ The Rock Temple 8/1/2011 Zweibrucken - Germany @ Erdgeschoss Live Music club 9/1/2011 Uelsen - Germany @ UJT 10/1/2011 Koln - Germany @ Sonic Ballroom 11/1/2011 Bochum - Germany @ Zwischenfall 12/1/2011 Hamburg - Germany @ Hafenklang 13/1/2010 Drammen - Norway @ Buddy's 14/1/2010 Lillehammer - Norway @ Heroes Rock café 15/1/2010 Favang - Norway @ Kvitfjell Pub & Stage 16/1/2010 Oslo - Norway @ Buckley's 19/1/2011 Helsinki - Finland @ Nosturi 20/1/2011 Tampere - Finland @ Yo Talo 21/1/2011 Turku - Finland @ Clubi 22/1/2011 Seinäjoki - Finland @ Ilona 24/1/2011 Halden - Norway @ Dr Feelgood 26/1/2011 Skien - Norway @ Kikkis Rock Cafe 27/1/2011 Kopenhagen - Denmark @ Templet 28/1/2011 Luebeck - Germany @ Rider's café 29/1/2011 Berlin - Germany @ Wild at Heart 30/1/2011 Prague - Czech Republic @ Exit 1/2/2011 Velden - Austria @ Bluesiana 2/2/2011 Weiden - Germany @ Musikclub Salute 3/2/2011 Kufstein - Austria @ Q-West Club 4/2/2011 Uster - Switzerland @ Rock fabrik 5/2/2011 Worblaufen - Switzerland @ Tibis Downstairs 6/2/2011 Ravensburg - Germany @ Balthes 7/2/2011 Frankfurt - Germany @ Batsckapp 8/2/2011 Spaichingen - Germany @ Café Passé 9/2/2011 Ludwigsburg - Germany @ Rockfabrik 10/2/2011 Regensburg - Germany @ Alte Maltzerei 11/2/2011 Solothurn - Switzerland @ Kofmehl 12/2/2011 Genova - Italy @ Crazy Bull 13/2/2011 Milano - Italy @ Rock and Roll 14/2/2011 Bologna - Italy @ Thunder Dome 16/2/2011 Monzon - Spain @ Zona Rock 17/2/2011 Barcelona - Spain @ Rocksound 18/2/2011 Vila Real - Spain @ Japan Club 19/2/2011 Valencia - Spain @ Durango Club 20/2/2011 Orihuela - Spain @ La Gramola 21/2/2011 Granada - Spain @ Plants Baja 22/2/2011 Cadiz - Spain @ Sala Supersonic 23/2/2011 Lisboa - Portugal @ Music Box 24/2/2011 Madrid - Spain @ Gruta 77 25/2/2011 Logroño - Spain @ Biribay Jazz Club 26/2/2011 Bilbao - Spain @ Azkena 27/2/2011 Leon - Spain @ Grand Café 3/3/2011 Rennes - France @ Mondo Bizarro 5/3/2011 Eindhoven – Holland @ The Rambler 5/3/2011 Eindhoven - Holland @ Rambler

 

 

Monday, November 29, 2010

DEGREED GETS DIGITAL LAUNCH: Degreed's killer debut album Life, Love, Loss is now available digitally via iTunes worldwide. The album has been warmly received by fans and critics alike, with the latest great review of the Swede's album just posted at: www.glorydazemusic.com/articles.php?article_id=4284. You can purchase the CD release via many great melodic retailers and direct from www.melodicrockrecords.com. More MRR titles will be available digitally in coming weeks.   STEVE LUKATHER ANNOUNCES 2011 UK DATES: Following the release of the critically acclaimed new studio album All's Well That Ends Well, and his packed out UK gigs in London, Wolverhampton and Southampton earlier this month, Toto guitarist Steve Lukather has just announced a handful of further UK solo concerts during March 2011. Lukather will play the Leamington Spa Assembly (Thu 17th March), Manchester Club Academy (Fri 18th March) and Holmfirth Picturedrome (Sat 19th March). Tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday November 26th via the 24 hour box office: 0871 230 1110, www.seetickets.com. "AOR for intelligent guitar fans... Lukather plays everything from Hendrix-style groove rock to Steely Dan 'clever chords' pop and twisted guitar fusion." - Total Guitar "Lukather has opted for a heavier melodic approach... The complexity of the instrumental 'Tumescent' proves he's lost none of his ambition." - Classic Rock presents AOR Read the full official web announcement - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/mascot/SteveLukather.htm. WHO IS BIG SWEDE AND WHY IS HOWIE SIMON ON HIS SONG?: Big Swede got a new 2 disc 23 track CD out: "BS In Da Club" ( released by Big Swede Studios). Rod Jackson (Slash's Snakepit) is guesting on 3 tracks and Howie Simon (Alcatrazz) is guesting on one track. This is an Electronica/Dance record. The song "We Need To Regulate This Soul Music" features both Rod and Howie and is a mixture of Electronica and Rock, with a cool guitar solo from Howie. - "It's interesting to record these guys on tracks that you normally wouldn't hear them on. I like to mix and match vibes & flavors", says Big Swede. You can hear the track on Big Swede Studios Facebook page, first in the music player: listn.to/BigSwedeStudios or www.facebook.com/pages/Big-Swede-Studios/119056794804855. Also for more info see: www.bigswedestudios.com (where you can hear Rod and Howie on a few rock tracks in the Rock/Pop player: "Digging Your Own Grave" and "The Most Wanted" - These tracks are not released yet). More info/credits: www.bigswedestudios.com/new-pages-2010/services-and-clients.html. GRAHAM BONNET PERSONALLY SIGNED FENDER STRATACOUSTIC FOR SALE: Legendary vocalist and songwriter Graham Bonnet, who has been in the band Rainbow, The Michael Schenker Group, Impellitteri and currently in Alcatrazz is making available for sale his Fender Stratacoustic. It has a Stratocaster guitar body, it's made in China and it's approximately 11-years old. It was used to write many of his famous songs and still has the original strings on it. Graham Bonnet has some new endorsements, which means new guitars are coming into his collection!. He doesn't use this guitar anymore and wanted to make it available to fans. If you wish, the guitar can be personally signed to you by Graham Bonnet. For price and info. please e-mail: zconcerts@aol.com. MELODIC BRIEFS: In an interview with German "Rock City" magazine, Eric Singer revealed, that Kiss will be back in Europe soon. They will be going into the studio early next year to do the yet untitled new studio album. He also said, that there will be more Kissology DVDs coming. New Quiet Riot - Metal Health - Denver, Co. - 11-26-2010 - www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YcAkkaarAE. Rock Sugar on "Private Chefs of Beverly Hills" - www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkdUec990B4 / www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fuv1gMXAkdU. Metal Shrine talked in depth with Jeff Scott Soto about his first meeting with Yngwie, his one recorded song with Journey, his fear of KISS growing up, TSO, Vinnie Vincent, Babylon AD and more: metalshrineblogg.blogspot.com/2010/11/intervju-med-jeff-scott-soto.html#links. Soul Secret are proud to announce that Marco Sfogli will appear as a guest star on their upcoming album performing a guitar solo. He declared: "It was a great pleasure to work on that track. Finally a campanian band that is every bit as good as the great international names!". www.soulsecret.net. Finally we found Paul DiBartolo lead guitarist of the 80's sensation Spread Eagle but a little twist his name now is Salvado Poe...Come read the interview that Spread Eagle fans were looking for. On RockEyez - www.rockeyez.com. Damage Control – Damage Control CD is now available for only £4.95 +pp - www.damagecontrolmusic.com/dccd.htm. Damage Control - Damage Control CD British Rock/Blues at its best. Line-up: Spike: lead Vox (Quireboys), Robin George: guitar/B vox (Thin Lizzy - Robert Plant), Pete Way: Bass/B Vox (UFO, Wasted, Fastway), Chris Slade: Drums (AC/DC - Micheal Schenker). Listen to edits on www.damagecontrolmusic.com/dccd.htm. John Waite's recent live album "In Real Time" has just been released and re-titled in the US as part of the Extended Versions series. LATEST FM NEWS FROM THE UK: Meet & Greet applications for the FM Christmas Party are now open. FM will be meeting & greeting after their set at London O2 Academy Islington on December 1st. Places are limited and the closing date is midnight Friday 26th November, so don't hesitate! For more info and to apply please go to: bit.ly/FMmandg. If anyone is wondering whether this will be the unmissable Christmas Party of the Year here's a little info about the evening... Four Wheel Drive will open proceedings at 7.10pm. Their brand of high-rollin' rock 'n' roll has been getting rave reviews and we highly recommend you check them out. 4WD will be filming on the day for their first live DVD. More info at: www.fourwheeldriverock.com. Good friends of FM, Airrace need no introduction. They will be taking to the stage at 8.10pm and there's a whisper that their set will include a couple of brand new songs from their currently-being-recorded new album. Don't miss it! www.myspace.com/airraceband. Keeping the evening running smoothly will be Master of Ceremonies none other than DJ Steve Price of ARfm. Mr. Bah Humbug himself will be playing some cool Yule music in between bands and ensuring that matters get very out of hand... … and so to FM. They've always loved their Christmas shows and on December 1 they're planning to have an absolute blast. To help them celebrate the evening they'll be sharing the stage with some very special guests. More details soon... As 2010 winds down, FM would like to thank everyone for helping to make this year a fantastic year for the band. "You've wholeheartedly embraced our new songs on Metropolis and City Limits EP. You've sung your hearts out at our shows. We can't wait to see you at our Christmas Party and at Hard Rock Hell on December 3. We're excited about what 2011 holds for FM and look forward to going on that trip in your very good company. We'll start 2011 on a good footing by confirming that we are delighted we'll be appearing with Thin Lizzy at London Hammersmith Apollo on January 22." FM website – www.fmofficial.com / Christmas Party Tickets – www.ticketweb.co.uk. HARDROCK HELL IV SHOWTIME!: Fatal Smile will be playing at Hardrock Hell IV in Prestatyn Sands, Wales on the "Hard Rock Heaven" stage on Dec 3 and the showtime is like below. So make sure to catch them kicking ass after the following great bands: 17.00 Diamond Head / 18.00 FM / 19.15 UFO / 20.35 Uriah Heep / 22.00 Airbourne / 23.35 Skid Row / 01.10 Fatal Smile. The band is currently working on their new album Welcome To The Freakshow and will enter the studio in December to follow up their masterpiece World Domination that was released in February 2008. They´ve been on a massive wourld tour and done over 300 shows and the album will be released in the spring 2011 and will be followed up by a even bigger world tour. Stay tuned for more info. WebLink: www.fatalsmile.com. VEGA'S NICK WORKMAN CARVES OUT PLACE ONLINE FOR FANS: With the build up to probably the best UK AOR release in recent years, Vega's Kiss Of Life, Nick Workman's fans have created an online portal to help promote his work past and more importantly present at www.nickworkmanonline.webs.com. The site has the full approval from Nick himself, who also promises to help with future content. The aim of the site is to promote the latest from the singer / frontman who started his recording career with Kick, allowing his fans to communicate with others on the internet and create a virtual online 'street team'. In addition to the site, the fans have also created a Yahoo Group, which will also act as a mailing list at uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/nickworkmanonline/ (Link is also provide at the portal). The site(s) are still being developed to allow maximum exposure to Nick and his work. Which means those who are running the site(s) would like fellow fans' input and feedback to ensure that this is the best source of information, etc for Nick.

 

 

Friday, November 26, 2010

ROCK CANDY RELEASE NEXT TWO SURVIVOR RE-ISSUES: These releases are available immediately from the Rock Candy website (www.rockcandyrecords.com) for a discounted price of £11.99 each ending December 12. Survivor Caught In The Game CANDY087 / "From pretty much out of nowhere Survivor scored one of the biggest ever selling hit singles in 1982 with the classic 'Eye Of The Tiger', a song written for the blockbuster movie 'Rocky III', featuring Sylvester Stallone. Buoyed by that success, the band took stock and regrouped to record their fourth album, the much overlooked 'Caught In The Game'. Mostly written and rehearsed in a Carpet Warehouse in their native Chicago, then recorded in Los Angeles and produced by guitarist Frankie Sullivan (engineered by future Guns N' Roses producer Mike Clink), the album is a pithy coalescence of Survivor's trademark sound and style. Arresting but smoothly produced, the songs ring with crystal clear clarity, refusing to out stay their welcome. With 'Caught In The Game', 'What Do You Really Think?', 'I Never Stopped Loving You' and the epic 'Santa Ana Winds' standing out from the pack. Amazingly, the album (originally released in 1983) failed to repeat the massive achievement of the 'Eye Of The Tiger' record, delivering no hit singles and making only a fleeting appearance on the album charts. It was a shocking development especially when you consider that 'Caught In The Game' harbours some of the band's best songs. It was also the last album to feature vocalist Dave Bickler, and saw the band going through some major changes in an effort to reverse their lack of continued good fortune." Track Listing: 1. Caught In The Game 2. Jackie Don't Go 3. I Never Stopped Loving You 4. It Doesn't Have To Be This Way 5. Ready For The Real Thing 6. Half-Life 7. What Do You Really Think? 8. Slander 9. Santa Ana Winds. Survivor Vital Signs CANDY088 / "Despite notching up a huge worldwide hit single with 'Eye Of The Tiger', Survivor's career trajectory was in a state of some flux. The band's last album - the 1983 released 'Caught In The Game' - although still maintaining an outstanding level of production and song writing, failed to connect with their audience, leaving the band scratching their heads in disbelief. Disappointed but not deterred, they retreated back to their home city of Chicago and laid down plans to record another album, one that would, as it turned out, put them squarely back in the spotlight. Naturally, changes had to be made, not least of all a change of lead vocalist from Dave Bickler (who had left because of vocal problems) to Jimi Jamison. In addition, the band decided to recall veteran producer Ron Nevison (Heart, Led Zeppelin, Bad Company) back into the fold to handle knob twiddling duties. The results were spectacular. 'Vital Signs' blew the roof of the charts, delivering three US top 20 hit singles ('The Search Is Over', 'High On You' & 'I Can't Hold Back') whilst the album itself made #16 on the album charts. It was a spectacular recovery from what had looked like a desperate situation and is now recognised as arguably Survivor's finest moment, packed with killer tracks and boasting a superior production. Truly one of the most essential AOR albums of all time." Track Listing: 1. I Can't Hold Back 2. High On You 3. First Night 4. The Search Is Over 5. Broken Promises 6. Popular Girl 7. Everlasting 8. It's The Singer Not The Song 9. I See You In Everyone BONUS TRACK 10. The Moment Of Truth.   xx SPV ANNOUNCES A&R PARTNERSHIP WITH DEREK OLIVER: SPV is pleased to announce that veteran A&R Derek Oliver will join forces with the label effective immediately. This alliance signifies yet another positive step forward for the company following a period of consolidation and restructuring that denotes a renewed commitment to expanding SPV's presence in the international market. Working closely with SPV's Hannover based operational HQ, Derek will contribute his successfully proven A&R activity in addition to communicating to the global artistic community opportunities that now exist with the label. Based in London, Derek will focus on working with established artists looking to broaden their appeal by plugging into the infrastructure of one of the last truly comprehensively independent rock record labels in Europe. Commencing his career as a music journalist with the Melody Maker and later Kerrang!, Derek relocated to the USA in 1989 to work in A&R for several labels, including Atlantic, Atco, East West, Elektra and Roadrunner, signing and working with a number of acts, including Dream Theater, Pantera, Better Than Ezra, The Rembrandts, Motley Crue, AC/DC, Bad Company and The Cult. Derek is also the owner of highly respected rock reissue label Rock Candy Records. SPV General Manager Frank Uhle comments: "With Derek we have found a well respected and experienced insider who still retains a deep passion for music – something that is quite unique in this business. Derek joining the SPV family will help to strengthen and expand our A&R skills and bridge the gap between classic rock and cutting edge metal." Derek Oliver states: "I'm very excited by the opportunity of working with SPV and in particular executives Frank Uhle and Olly Hahn, who have proved to be dynamic and forward thinking pillar's of strength in an organisation that I truly believe is well placed to meet the great challenges of our industry ahead." WebLink: www.spv.de. AVENUE OF ALLIES SIGNS MISS BEHAVIOUR: Avenue Of Allies takes pride in presenting the sophomore album Last Woman Standing of the Swedish Melodic Rock band Miss Behaviour as the first release of the label in 2011. "Miss Behaviour" released their critically acclaimed debut album "Heart Of Midwinter" in 2006. In the following years the founding members Erik Heikne (guitar) and Henrik Sproge (keyboards) recruited the duo of Sebastian Roos and Anders Berlin, both of the band Shineth as their new lead vocalist and drummer respectively. "Last Woman Standing" is a Rock album of the highest order, ranging from classic 80s styled AOR anthems like "1988", "Cynthia" and "Emergency" to the harder edged Melodic Rock of "Perfect War", featuring a blistering guitar solo of Roland Grapow (Masterplan, Ex-Helloween). Other highlights include the epic title track "Last Woman Standing", a duet with female vocalist Kajsa Berg and the ballad "Till We Meet Again", a tune already receiving airplay on National Radio in Sweden, with a professionally shot video to follow in the coming weeks. On the strength of "Last Woman Standing" is geared up to enter the stage in 2011 and introduce the all new "Miss Behaviour" live in concert. WebLink: www.missbehaviour.se. GOTTHARD'S STEVE LEE GETS HIS FIRST TRIBUTE ALBUM: APRIL RAIN PROMOTION have come up with a tribute album to Gotthard's Steve Lee. The press release sent out would not allow me to copy the text into this news update, but I can provide the track listing for the Digital Album (physical release under negotiation with Gottard management it seems): 1) Tank & Mitzi (Italy) "Heaven" 2) GoodWins (Russia) "Hole In One" 3) B.J. (Brazil) "Someday" 4) Chicka (Italy) "Let It Be" 5) Edoardo Menchicchi (Italy) "Angel" 6) Pub Connection (Germany) "Sister Moon" 7) Hugo M. Otsuki (Japan/Brazil) "All I Care For" 8) Freak Show (France) "Mighty Quinn" 9) MMM Acoustic Trio (Italy) "One Life One Soul" 10) Sound Explosion (Hungary) "She Goes Down" 11) Junkie Dildoz (Italy) "Come Alive" 12) Nathalie Griffart (France) "And Then Goodbye". More info at: www.aprilrainprom.com.   LONDON BACK FOR NEW RELEASE: Sunset Strip legends London, who helped launch the careers of artists such as Motley Crue's Nikki Sixx, Guns N' Roses' Slash and W.A.S.P.'s Blackie Lawless, are currently working on material for a new album which would be the band's first studio release since 1990's 'Playa Del Rock'. London vocalist Nadir D'Priest tells Sleaze Roxx, "At this time we are working on new material to put together a new London album. This is the original line-up from 1989 -- we have Brian West on bass, Sean Lewis on guitar and Krigger on drums. It has been over 20 years since we have had this line-up together, which are the original players on the album 'Playa Del Rock'. I am really looking forward to new tunes, a new album, and also a new music video. The band sounds louder and better than ever. It's great having Brian West and Krigger back on the London ship. We are now ready for take off!" "The voice is still there and we are going to put together a new album -- looking at 2011", continues Nadir. "It would be great to have a tune from Nikki Sixx and Blackie Lawless with me on vocals, and maybe the others who came through London. What do you think? It would be killer. I don't think that would happen though, way too big for little old London." To read Nadir D'Priest's interview with Sleaze Roxx visit www.sleazeroxx.com/interviews/nadirdpriest.shtml. INTRODUCING HEAVY METAL MUSEUM RECORDS: Heavy Metal Museum Records (www.heavymetalmuseum.com) is a new label out of the USA for LP releases. The first is Kix vocalist Steve Whiteman's band Funny Money and their album Back Again, available on super limited colored vinyl in the following colors: Total pressing 500 pieces, hand numbered limited edition. 001-100 Green Vinyl -- Pink Splatter 101-200 Green Vinyl -- Black Splatter 201-300 Green vinyl -- Solid Green 301-400 Green vinyl -- Halloween Orange splatter 401-500 Green Vinyl -- Red Splatter Customers can find them in my the label's E-Bay store for purchase - save $10 on the complete set, and wholesale inquiries welcome.   MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with some killer soundboard live shows this week after several weeks of adding demo and rare titles. And it's a big update featuring the following: - John Waite - Tower Theatre, PA, 1985 - Cheap Trick - Tacoma, WA 2010 - Van Halen - Unchained Monsters (Star Pavilion, Hershey, PA July. 26, 1998 + Rock Im Park Nurnberg Germany May.29, 1998) - Rush - First Part of Counters (Jan. 18, 1994 Civic Center, Pensacola, FL) - Great White - Big Blues Live (Electric Ladyland, NY 1991) - Feature Album - ZEROp - From Zero To Hero MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, November 25, 2010

NEXT IN LINE FROM AOR CLASSIX: After the successful re-releases of Casanova's "Heroes", After Hours' "Take Off" and Steel Breeze's "Heart On The Line", the AOR Heaven Classix series continues with the digitally remastered re-issue of a much sought after West Coast AOR gem - The L.A. Cowboys "Endless Summer". The album will be out on November 30th, 2010. Originally released in 1993 on EMI-Toshiba in Japan, and five years later as a limited edition of 1.000 copies via AOR Heaven, this cracker has definitely stood the test time as an ultimate masterpiece of the genre, right next to Planet 3 and Chicago. Led by James Studer and Wayne Nelson (Little River Band) the album features world renown musicians like Joseph Williams (Toto), Buzz Feiten, Mick Fleetwood, Michael Thompson, Tris Imboden, George Hawkins Jr. and many more. Digitally remastered by Chris Lyne and featuring liner notes from Takeshi Ito this strictly limited edition of 1. 000 copies is your chance to grab a copy of this much sought after gem. Due next in the AOR Heaven Classix series in January 2011 is the re-issue of Paul Laine's mega classic "Stick It In Your Ear" (incl. the 4 bonus tracks from the Long Island re-issue), which will get remastered by Chris Lyne and will contain liner notes by Dave Reynolds. Following hot on the heels is the re-issue of Time Gallery's self-titled debut, originally released in 1989 and produced by Keith Olsen. In conjunction with the band and EMI-Denmark this great Toto flavoured album will get remastered by the band and will include four previously unreleased bonus tracks. The album will be limited to 1.000 copies as well. Both albums from Paul Laine and Time Gallery are scheduled for a release on January 14, 2011. MICKEY FINN - CLARIFICATION REGARDING JETBOY DEPARTURE REMARKS: Mickey Finn, former lead vocalist for Jetboy would like to clarify some remarks made in a previous press release and subsequent interviews regarding that release. In the initial release, Mickey gave the impression that he was unhappy with the way the band has been managed for the past four years. Mickey Finn in no way meant to include Richard Riis of R&R Management in that assessment. "Richard got us some amazing gigs, and some guarantees that never would have materialized had he not been in the picture". Says Mickey "We played Rocklahoma, M3 (twice), South Texas Rock Fest, and a myriad of other amazing shows. Good Lord, the guy got us gigs we never could have dreamed of on our own". "As I said on the Rock and Roll Geek Show with Michael Butler last week, it was more about the guys in the band not managing ourselves right, and not being willing to go all-in. I guess I just said it wrong, and I never meant to give off the wrong impression. The band's publicist Ray Miller has stepped up and is helping out with managing the band now, and he too has done great work on Jetboy's behalf." Mickey Finn is no longer doing interviews regarding Jetboy and asks that the press respect his decision to move on to his new project with the Cold Blue Rebels. Mickey Finn wishes his former bandmates Billy Rowe, Fernie Rod, Jess Reckless, Jessie Mendez and their new vocalist DK Revelle nothing but the best and encourages fans in Europe to embrace the tour and to support Jetboy. "I know how tough it is to be a frontman. I've seen the video of DK fronting Jetboy, and I think the guy is doing great with the gig. I'd love to be doing it myself, and if I didn't say that it feels weird to see someone else fronting the band I'd be lying to you. That being said, I hope DK continues to kick some ass my friends keep blowing away audiences. Jetboy will always have a special place in my heart, and I truly wish the guys health and happiness." JADED AIM HIGHER WITH NEW EP: The all female rock band Jaded, teaming up with new vocalist Katy Reign this past year, has just released their new EP Higher, recorded in Boston, MA. This fall is filled with great shows in the New England area while working to finish up more new tunes for the full length album. Following in Aerosmith's footsteps, Jaded is putting their name on the map as Boston's Bad Girls of Rock N' Roll - and they'll give it to you, high heels and all! - National and international touring (direct support for WASP) - Recording experience with Grammy Award winning producer Gary Katz (Steely Dan, Joe Cocker) - Support for bands including Alice In Chains, Twisted Sister, Buckcherry, Shinedown, Damage Plan, Lita Ford, Skid Row, Kittie, Halestorm, Doro Pesch, Disturbed etc. - Endorsements: Sabian Cymbals, Vic Firth, Jackson Guitars, Dunlop, Ovation Guitars, Hercules Stands. WebLinks: www.jadedrockers.com / www.facebook.com/jadedrock / www.reverbnation.com/jadedrockers / www.myspace.com/jadedrockers.   ELECTRIC CITY BY MIKE CAMPESE: Electric City is the 7th solo release from guitar virtuoso Mike Campese. The 14 song, over 76 minute Cd is filled with some of the most blistering guitar work Mike has ever recorded. The CD kicks off with a bang with the tune "Eleventh Degree" featuring some intense melodic shredding and jazzy harmonies. Just when you thought you heard some crazy guitar playing, Campese takes it up another notch with" Shred Machine", which is just pure non stop shredding done very tastefully. This is defiantly Mike Campese's most heaviest CD to date, with the down tuned song "Heavy Thing" and the in your face progressive vocal tune "LandShark". Mike Campese really shows off his versatility with the Indian inspired tunes like "Cruisin Across the Mojave" and "Camelryde". Like each Mike Campese CD there is something for everyone, Campese does some pretty intense over the top guitar work, especially on the demonic arpeggio blistering tune "Over The Top", which Paganini fans would love and the face melting tune "Napali Coast". Mike does sing on a few tracks on this disc like on the epic tune "Kauai Blue", which is loaded with lush harmonies. Mike can really shred but he has a strong sense of melody that he is known for which can be heard on his catchy ballad "Closer To The Sun" that has some beautiful haunting melodies. Campese even gets a little funky on the tunes "Butterfingers" and "Punk Ass", featuring some hip sassy melodies. The Mike Campese fans are going to love this CD and it should bring him over the top. The latest GP lesson is this link here: www.guitarplayer.com/article/mike-campeses-string-skipping/February-2010/107393. Mike Campese on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikFu1SPbcuk / www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENMik4n7NG0. Orders, soundbytes and more info at: www.mikecampese.com.

 

 

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

FAIR WARNING LIVE OUT THIS WEEK: This week sees the release of the most extensive live collection of Fair Warning to date. This 3 CD and 2 DVD set features three full length shows, from 3 of Fair Warning's classic Japanese concerts. USA readers - AOL MUSIC is currently hosting a full album listening party for the first disc of the 3 CD anthology. Get your first listen at: fpro.us/B. It was only four years ago that Fair Warning - led by charismatic front man Tommy Heart - re-entered the stage after a break of nearly five years to introduce the reunion album "Brother's Keeper". A sold-out tour through Japan as well as various festival appearances throughout Europe followed. In summer 2009 they released the much-acclaimed studio album "Aura". After a great concert at Tokyo, Japan's Loud Park festivals in 2009 and a sold-out tour of Japan in 2010, the band decided to release a live CD and a live DVD to document what they do best... play intense live shows and put on some of the best rock performances in the world. Check out the exclusive video trailer at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsMVzmk9Sb0.   ARCHIVE RICK NIELSON INTERVIEW: This press release in today from journalist Michael Brandvold: "Today I posted a 12 minute radio interview I did with Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick back in 1986. While in college radio at KGMA at Mankato State University I did a phone interview with Cheap Trick lead guitarist Rick Nielsen. I am pretty sure this interview never aired, so this is the first time you are hearing it... in its entirety, uncut. I wonder if the kid who answers the phone is now Cheap Trick's drummer, Daxx Nielsen? A little back story for this interview. I was supposed to interview Rick Nielsen backstage at the Met Center in Bloomington, MN. Cheap Trick were on tour opening for Ratt. Unfortunately my backstage access was messed up and I was not able to interview Rick. So it was arranged to do a phone interview. Interview with Cheap Trick lead guitarist Rick Nielsen, December 31, 1986 - 12 Minutes. Link: michaelbrandvold.com/blog/2010/11/unreleased-1986-interview-with-cheap-tricks-rick-nielsen/. CARL DIXON REFLECTS UPON HIS LUCK: Coney Hatch frontman Carl Dixon is one "lucky dog", surviving a near fatal car crash in Australia a couple of years back. Now he has a new solo album on the verge of release: "It's finally ready. My new album Lucky Dog is the best thing I've ever done. I hope you'll try it and see if you don't agree. Thirteen of my songs plus one little known gem by Peter Ham of Badfinger adds up to fourteen tracks of "a love letter to my generation". That's Carl Dixon, Lucky Dog, because that's what I am." Pre-Orders via: www.carldixon.com.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Former Pretty Boy Floyd bassist, Leslie Sanders, is back with a new band called Prophets Of Addiction: prophetsofaddiction.com. Legendary Welsh rabble rousers Tigertailz are back with their first new album release in three years! December 6th sees the launch of the no-holds-barred live album 'Bezerk Live - Burnin' Fuel' and Tigertailz and Sleaze Roxx have teamed up to give you a sneak-peak of the new album with a cover of The Osmonds' hit single "Crazy Horses" at: www.sleazeroxx.com/news10/1121tig.shtml. Scott Leifer wrote and recorded this tribute to Ronnie James Dio and hopes fans will enjoy: www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aRQSgxP27w. The new Nazareth CD is titled Big Dogz and will be released in February 2011: www.nazarethdirect.co.uk/nazareth/. AXL SUES AGAIN: Demonstrating an appetite for litigation, former Guns N' Roses singer Axl Rose is suing video game maker Activision Blizzard for $20 million. He is alleging fraud and breach of contract relating to the company's popular Guitar Hero III game, Radar Online said today. Rose has also claimed unjust enrichment, saying that he is the majority owner of the trademarks and licensing associated with his former heavy metal band. Rose said Guitar Hero III uses several Guns N' Roses hits in the game, including Welcome to the Jungle, without his permission. While there was an agreement for the song, Rose said: "Activision breached the contract when it released GH III which prominently features Slash imagery in direct connection with the use of Welcome to the Jungle, exploits the prior association between [former band member] Slash and Guns N' Roses, promotes Slash's and VR's [the band Velvet Revolver] separate interests and includes VR tracks as available downloads, all of which was and is directly contrary to the contractual obligations of Defendants," according to legal documents seen by Radar. Read more: www.news.com.au. ROCKVILLE MUSIC NEW RELEASES: Pavlov's Dog Live and Unleashed Label: Rockville Music / Out: January 28th, 2011 / Live and unleashed is the first Pavlov's Dog live album in it's 36 year history. The band is touring again regularly since 2004, and receives terrific reviews for energetic, emotional, and congenial concerts. LIVE and unleashed captures the unique spirit of a Pavlov's Dog show authentically. The 7 piece live-lineup, incl. violin, melotron, piano, guitar and David Surkamp's unique voice, generates the typical Pavlov's Dog sound. Some arrangements are quite different to the studio versions, and overall the band is live more heavy. Powerful rock songs such as Breaking Ice or Looking For My Shadow, take turns with ballads such as Standing Here With You or Angel's Twilight Jump. Branded by beautiful violin melodies and Surkamp's affecting vocals, Pavlov's Dog live gives the heebie-jeebies for granted. Live and unleashed comprehends a cross-section of all Pavlov's Dog and David Surkamp periods. The album contains not only tracks of any Pavlov's Dog album, but as well Heart Of Mine (a track originally by HIFI, Surkamp's band in the 80ies together with Ian Matthews), and with Wrong and Looking For My Shadow two tracks of Surkamp's 2006 solo album Dancing On The Edge Of A Teacup. And despite Live and unleashed was recorded in 2009, it comprehends already four tracks of the brand new studio album Echo & Boo, which was released in October 2010. LIVE and unleashed, and the tour 2009, are dedicated to Sigfried Carver. The original Pavlov's Dog violin player passed away in 2009. Track list: 01 Preludin, 02 Of Once And Future Kings, 03 Breaking Ice (Intro: Dedication to Sigfried Carver V2009), 04 I Don't Need Magic Anymore, 05 Heat Of Mine, 06 Late November, 07 Not By My Side, 08 Theme From Subway Sue, 09 Episode, 10 I Love You Still, 11 Gold Nuggets, 12 Looking For My Shadow, 13 Wrong, 14 Standing Here With You (Megan's Song), 15 Angeline, 16 Angel's Twilight Jump. Central Park Reflected / Label: Rockville Music / Out: January 28th, 2011 / Reflected is the 2nd album by Munich based Progressive Rock band Central Park. Founded in 1983, during the renaissance of Prog-Rock powered by bands such as Marillion, Asia or Saga, Central Park performed to „the summit of Germany's Progressive Rock League" (quote Keys Magazine). Central Park first split in 1989. 2006 the band reunited in their original lineup – accidentally inspired by a Yes concert. The debut album 'Unexpected" (a pair of CD & DVD) was released 23 years (!) after the band's initial foundation. The enormous feedback by press and media made Central Park the most recognized German Progressive Rock act in the fall of 2006. E.g. Kultur Spiegel magazine wrote: „Hipster Vincent Gallo would have highly appreciated the majestic debut." In Summer 2010 new singer Jannine Pusch joined Central Park. She was not only the new face in the front. The impressing vocal variety of the educated soprano singer was the ignition for change and advancement. Pusch's preference for heavy sounds inspired and challenged Central Park's musical brain and keyboard player Jochen Scheffter. "Reflected" easily meshes both rocking and classic elements, it unifies hymn-like with Crimsonesque influences, symphonic and metallic sounds. The opener 'Guns R Us" decries the child abuse found in child soldiers around the world, starting with a memorable rhythm sounding like gun shots. And with the typical 21-minute Prog Rock opus 'Vision of Cassandra", Central Park transport the vision of Troy's decline from ancient to today's world, and create an actual apocalyptical vision for the ears. Track list: 01 Guns R Us, 02 Free Fall, 03 White Princess, 04 Another Part; Vision Of Cassandra (3 Parts): 05 Vision, 06 Doom (Winterstorm), 07 Awakening, 08 Path Of Mercy. WebLink: www.myspace.com/centralparkband.   xx

 

 

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

MASS RELEASES TWO LOST CLASSICS ON RETROACTIVE RECORDS: The Boston-based band, Mass, is a juggernaut in melodic metal circles. They self-released a self-titled debut vinyl-only 4 song EP in 1984, selling 10,000 units in the Boston area alone! By 1985, the band released the legendary New Birth album on RCA Records. The band resurfaced in 1988 with the classic 6 song EP, Take You Home, on Enigma Records. 1989 brought fans Voices In the Night produced by Stryper's, Michael Sweet. What most fans never knew was that Mass actually signed an ill-fated record deal with A&M Records in 1982, when the band was still full of teenagers! Fighter was recorded on a budget of $150,000 with the intent to release on their new label. Conflicts between the band's manager and A&M escalated and legal issues prevented the release from ever seeing the light of day. Almost 30 years later, the Iowa-based Christian record label, Retroactive Records now brings this Mass-ive metal record to fans across the world! Four tracks from the 1982 A&M Fighter album, 'Too Far Gone,' 'Voyager (Look For The Edge),' 'Do You Love Me' and 'Watch Her Walk,' ended up on the band's 1985 RCA album, New Birth. This release is special because the 1982 A&M Fighter album was the way MASS originally wrote these songs during their teenage years – different recordings, different tempos and even different lyrics. Tom Allom (Judas Priest) produced this classic metal release from 1982. It's the same musical genius MASS has provided on every release - full of hard-charging metallic guitar riffs and powerful melodies! For fans of Bloodgood, Stryper, Saint, TNT, Quiet Riot, Warrant, and Scorpions! After spending two years in court trying to free themselves from a bad management situation, Mass wrote four brand new songs and released their debut record on their own label, Mass Records in 1984. The self-titled EP was a big success, selling 10,000 units in the Boston area alone. The EP got the attention of major labels and eventually resulted in Mass signing with RCA in early 1985. The tracks 'Holy One' and 'Pedal to the Metal' would later see nationwide release via on 1988 Enigma Records release, Take You Home. However, the songs were remixed with vocal harmonies and completely redone guitars added for that release. This Retroactive Records EP release has the original raw energy that showcases these classic songs as they were originally intended. '84 Unchained is the original 4 song self-titled EP with the addition of the previously unreleased bonus track, 'Bones! '84 Unchained includes exclusive liner notes by Mass front man Louis St. August. The EP has been re-mastered from the original tapes by the legendary J Powell of Steinhaus. Releasing on the Iowa-based Christian record label, Retroactive Records, this classic EP + bonus track is available on CD for the first time ever! It has been re-titled '84 Unchained because the band was breaking free from the legal barriers that held them back for years. This special EP unleashed a heavy metal renegade band that went on to make history as hard music legends with RCA and Enigma Records for years to come! This classic metal rarity is as good as metal gets! For fans of Stryper, Bloodgood, Quiet Riot, Warrant, Barren Cross and Dio! Retroactive Records: www.retroactiverecords.net.   xx STEPHEN PEARCY'S SOLO NEWS: Top Fuel Newz - Stephen Pearcy (Ratt) to hit the studio to start work on his 4th solo release. Pearcy says; "Expect the unexpected, It's time to pull out all the stops on this one, no f*#kin' around. We've got more then enough material, and the material is ass kicking! There's a couple songs that should of been on "Infestation" that's for sure, stubbornness and politics prevented that. But there's a reason for everything. I've been writing songs the last year to this day, you can never have enough music. I'm going to work the songs up at Fred Coury's (Cinderella) studio, and yes, hopefully he'll be drums on as much of the new music as I can get. My partner in grime; Erik Ferentinos, from my solo band and I have written plenty of songs for the "Battering Ramm" project, so were good to go. I'd also like to get a song with Carlos (Cavazo, who co wrote "Eat Me Up Alive and "Best Of Me" with Stephen for Ratt "Infestation") in there. "It's all about the best solo music I have, and songs for "Battering Ramm" right now. We'll have some great players all over the new CD! Hopes are to take the same players on tour next year. "With new management, I've got a full plate at the moment for 2011, and wouldn't have it any other way at this time". Stay tuned...." FIREFEST REVIEW AND PODCAST ONLINE NOW: Full detailed Firefest 2010 review and photos from the Fireworks crew now up on www.rocktopia.net. Relive the weekend, or see what all the fuss was about! AhORa Rock Podcast #5 is now online at www.rocktopia.net. As well as featuring the latest melodic releases from the likes of Vega, Bad City, Michael Bormann, Legion and Casanova, we also have an interview with the star of Firefest 2010, Jimi Jamison. So make sure you make a date with the beautiful and irrepressible princess of rock, Pilar Sanchez, and check out AhORa Rock now! MELODIC BRIEFS: Metallica's final Death Magnetic World Tour stats: The World Magnetic tour crossed 45 countries, 143 arena shows, 34 festival shows, 29 stadium shows, 4 club/theater shows, 3 tv/radio shows, 2 hall of fame shows, 3790 songs, and not a single setlist was the same (KISS, Motley Crue, Alice Cooper, etc... please take note of that last part of the sentence). RockEyez presents Ted Poley Band @ Dingbatz doing "Bang Bang", "Naughty Naughty" w/guest vocals by Ian Criss of Rock Kandy And "Stone in Love" Featuring Doug Odell: www.rockeyez.com. Faith Circus has entered the studio with producer/engineer Thomas "TomTom" Haugland to begin work on the follow-up to their 2008 debut (Kivel Records). On this weeks Hair Metal Haven, Chris Nelson will be talking to Mathew and Gunnar Nelson about there new album Lightning Strikes Twice, the death of there father Ricky Nelson and there plans for 2011. Also on the show its the 2nd of the 18 & Life personal interviews featuring Nick Workman of new Frontiers signings Vega. So join Chris this Saturday 27th Nov 17.00-19.00 GMT on www.phoenixradio.co.uk. Metal Sludge's Top 10 Drunkest (Living) Rock Stars of All Time - www.metalsludge.tv/home/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2157&Itemid=42. HOLLYWOOD KILLERZ: RECORD DEAL, NEW ALBUM ART, TRACK LIST: Hollywood Killerz have inked a deal with logic(il)logic for the release of their much anticipated new album, "Dead On Arrival". Harry lead singer of the band commented: "Dead on Arrival is a major step in the history of this band, it really represents ourselves and what we've been through to become what we are today. It contains some Hollywood Killerz classic tunes like "Grey Celebrations" or "Lovecrash" as well as new songs written exclusively for this album. It's a decadent glam-punk cocktail, often angry, sometimes intimate and sometimes cheerful. In conclusion it's the perfect soundtrack for a quiet weekend of disorder". The 13-tracks CD will be released on December 11 and track list is as follows: 1. 700.000 2. Grey Celebrations 3. Luxury Depression 4. Girls ® Dead 5. How (Could I) 6. Going Down 7. Somewhere Out Of This Mind 8. All Tomorrow's Parties 9. Over And Over 10.Through The Sand 11.Our Memories May Be Right 12.Lovecrash 13.More Than It Hurts You. The release party will take place in Turin, the band's hometown, at the United Club, with Superhorrorfuck as special guest logic(il)logic is Street Symphonies Records' new sub-label dedicated to metal and rock in all possible forms. WebLinks: www.hollywoodkillerz.net / www.myspace.com/motorcitymaphia / www.streetsymphonies.com/logicillogic. CAGE VOCALIST SEAN PECK FEATURED IN NEW THE RIGHT TO ROCK PODCAST: TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest Podcast (episode #111), featuring Cage Vocalist Sean Peck. Sean took time out of his busy schedule to discuss Cage's upcoming DVD release. Sean discusses the layout of the DVD, as well as what fans can expect on the new CD. Sean also gives The Right to Rock an exclusive listen to their new track War of the Undead. Interview lasts approx. 40 min. Yes, Halloween came and went without our usual show - but we promise we had a good reason! Apparently, that bastard John, jealous that we would even think of doing the show without him this year, did his best to utterly destroy misplace the tapes. Luckily, they've been found, Blair Witch Project style and the mysteries of our time spent in central Texas killin' zombies and such are yours to be enjoyed. Sorry about the generator noise, we had a problem with that, but hopefully you'll be able to understand us. As for Mel...nobody really understands him anymore anyway, right? Then the boys get a call from our West Coast correspondent (hunkered down out East this time), Sean Peck of Cage, whose z-killin' skills are unmatched. Sean takes a little time out from whoopin' undead ass to tell us some mouth-watering news about the new CD and DVD, and even drops a world premiere exclusive track on ya! Zounds!

 

 

Monday, November 22, 2010

HAGAR, ROTH AND ANTHONY INK NEW DEALS WITH WARNER/CHAPPELL: Warner/Chappell recently inked deals with legendary rockers Sammy Hagar, David Lee Roth and Michael Anthony, all of Van Halen fame. As part of the new agreement, Warner/Chappell acquired the entire catalog of songs written by Sammy Hagar—songwriter guitarist, and former lead singer of Van Halen (1986 through 1996)—including his work with the bands Van Halen, Montrose and Chickenfoot, as well as his music as a solo artist. Additionally, Warner/Chappell extended and expanded its worldwide administration agreements with songwriters David Lee Roth, original lead singer for Van Halen (1978 through 1984), and Michael Anthony, bassist for Van Halen and Chickenfoot. Roth's existing catalog, including his Van Halen and solo work, as well as Anthony's work with Van Halen and Chickenfoot's debut self-titled album, are part of the agreements. "Sammy Hagar, David Lee Roth and Michael Anthony have not only each co-written hit songs recorded by Van Halen on some of the highest-selling albums of all time, but each had success on other solo or band recording projects as well," said Scott Francis, President, Warner/Chappell Music, and Chairman and CEO, Warner/Chappell Music U.S. "Their work is classic, timeless and adored around the world. The entire Warner/Chappell staff is excited to be working with such revered musicians who we know will continue to thrill fans for years to come." WebLink: www.warnerchappell.com. The timing on the above announcement is nothing short of fascinating don't you think?! In related news for those seeking every molecule of information on Van Halen's coming plans, this scan from Melbourne (Australia's) Sunday Herald Sun. I'll see what I can do to reach out to the promoter in question (I've been told who it is...) and I will seek comment from Van Halen's spokesman. However, I don't believe the album title mentioned or proposed January release date is accurate.   EDEN'S CURSE TO INFECT DVD PLAYERS: Multinational Melodic Metallers Eden's Curse have released their first DVD titled Creation Of Eden which is a 2 DVD rockumentary of the Making of their self titled debut album and the highly acclaimed follow up The Second Coming. Released on November 29th, on their own label, A&D Records, the DVD clocks in at 169 Minutes and also features several bonus interviews and interactive band biographies. Pre-Orders are now available at special discounted price from: www.edenscurse.com/edensstore. A a DVD Trailer is also available here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=BqNtzKGZ5ds.   GLEN BURTNIK'S XMAS XTRAVAGANZA: 20th ANNIVERSARY: Glen Burtnik's Xmas Xtravaganza, an annual holiday concert which benefits food banks and other charities, will celebrate 20 years of fundraising on Saturday, December 18, 2010. The show, which last year featured over one hundred performers, will be held at Count Basie Theatre, 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, New Jersey. Born at a small club in New Jersey in the late 80's, this annual holiday concert revue of seasonal musical performances has grown larger each year, evolving into a New York-New Jersey area tradition not to be missed. It features a colorful cast of characters which changes from year to year, but in the past has included such luminaries as Patty Smyth, John McEnroe, Phoebe Snow, Billy Squier, Marshall Crenshaw, The Patti Smith Band, Billy J. Kramer, Fred Schneider (B-52's), Jill Sobule, Idina Menzel, Jeffrey Gaines, Freedy Johnston, Jonathan Cain, Madison Cain, Steve Augeri, Dan Bern, John Waite, Curtis Stigers, STYX, Mary Lee Kortes, Kimberley Dahme (Boston), Deborah Harry, Ian Hunter, and Willie Nile, among others. Shows have been sold out for the past six years running. Originally started in 1989, the show has been held every year except 1990 & '91, making the 2010 Xmas Xtravanganza the 20th Anniversary of this event. "It's a celebration of the music of the season," says Burtnik, "which I've always found a magically effective genre. Once I realized it was a worthwhile undertaking, I decided it'd be most appropriate to the spirit of the show to give the profit to people in need. I take the overall show as a great compliment, that all these amazing artists, assistants and technicians donate time for no pay so I can raise some money for local charities. This is a blessing I do not take lightly. That the audience brings so many giant Hefty bags full of canned food, warm clothes and toys to be distributed to soup kitchens and family shelters - simply because I ASK, is a gesture which causes me to tear up." What: Glen Burtnik's Xmas Xtravaganza, 20TH ANNIVERSARY When: Saturday, December 18 @ 7:30 PM Where: Count Basie Theatre, 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-842-9000. www.countbasietheatre.org Tickets: $45, $35, $30, $20 available at venue box office or online A benefit for New Jersey food banks, Elijah's Promise in New Brunswick, and other worthwhile charities. Audience members are encouraged to contribute warm clothing, new toys and canned food for those less fortunate. MILI COVERS COHEN: Hallelujah: One of the most memorable, captivating and inspiring songs you will ever hear sung by the world renown singer Mili Matijevic. The voice of Mark Wahlberg in the movie Rock Star, SteelHeart and most recent the front man for Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger "The Doors". Mili delivers a touching rendition of Hallelujah written by Leonard Cohan. Recorded for the holidays, this track captures the true emotion and the spirit of "Hallelujah". Accompanied by piano, string section and a choir. Produced by: Matijevic. Link: www.steelheartstore.com. MOONSTONE PROJECT UPDATE: If you are into classic rock music, you've probably heard about Moonstone Project: It is Italian musician Matt Filippini's super studio project featuring rock giants like Glenn Hughes, Ian Paice, James Christian, Clive Bunker, Ken Hensley, Carmine Appice, Graham Bonnet, Steve Walsh, Eric Bloom and many more! They released 3 studio albums between 2006 and 2009; the last one's been "Rebel On The Run" released by Blistering Records in June 2009. On November 26th, 2010 Moonstone will play their last show @ Highway Star Club in Sospiro (CR) Italy. It will be an intimate gig in a small club, with the band playing near Matt's hometown, Cremona (Italy). After the European dates with Carmine Appice on drums that Moonstone played during Sept/Oct 2010, Matt decided it's the right time to start new musical adventures. The last studio project for Moonstone will be a cover album to be released sometime next year; this album will feature some great classic rock song performed by Matt and his band mates with some international special guests like Bobby Kimball (Toto) and Carmine Appice. And after that? Of course Matt will write some more music, possibly forming a new exciting band. Moonstone Project and Matt Filippini websites: www.mattfilippini.com / www.myspace.com/moonstoneproject. BON JOVI TO SET AUSSIE BLOOMERS ALIGHT: Bon Jovi will perform a private concert for 300 guests being flown out for Oprah Winfrey's Australian TV specials along with hundreds of other VIPs. More than 1000 invitations were yesterday sent out for the December 15 concert at Star City with stars including U2, Bob Geldof , Winfrey and her fans, plus high-rolling gamblers all expected to attend. The show will attract world-wide attention thanks to Winfrey's association and the elite of Sydney's business, social and showbiz circles have been invited to the intimate show, which coincides with the US supergroup's Australian tour. Star City is undergoing an $860 million renovation and new management has recruited Bon Jovi for the relaunch -- aimed at making it a world-class venue. The new management of Star City want to make a statement . . . the private Bon Jovi concert show and the after-party will be one of the biggest VIP events Sydney has seen in more than a decade, a source said. Invited guests include Cate Blanchett, Russell Crowe, Keith Urban, Nicole Kidman, James and Erica Packer, Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch, Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness. Read more: www.news.com.au/entertainment/. CD SHOWCASE: A big CD Showcase update today, featuring a number of new and upcoming releases - Prime Suspect, Vega and a Nelson double header (Frontiers Records, out December 3); Appearance Of Nothing (Escape Music, out January 21); Seventh Wonder, Michael Harris, Anthriel & Mistheria (Lion Music, out now); Survivor re-issues (Rock Candy Records, out now); Michael Bormann, Dan Reed, Poison Sun, Steel Breeze & After Hours (all AOR Heaven/Metal Heaven, out now). Check them out now.

 

 

Friday, November 19, 2010

VAN HALEN - LAST WORD (FOR THIS WEEK AT LEAST!): Some great Van Halen feedback in the last 24 hrs. It seems most fans see past the official spin, but the most disturbing aspect is witnessing just how frustrated long suffering VH fans are (that included me...). There is a lengthy and intelligent conversation going on at: www.vhlinks.com/vbforums/main-vh-discussion-f8.html which is worth a read. Additionally, Blabbermouth have reported on both my initial news item and the "official word" added yesterday here. They have also added a nice summary of events over the last 12 months, all the reported comments from various people suggesting just what I was reporting on earlier this week. One fan did e-mail me and asked me to stick to the facts when reporting VH news....I thought I had done just that... Stay tuned. LATEST FROM ROCK CANDY: These releases are available immediately from the Rock Candy website (www.rockcandyrecords.com) for a discounted price of £11.99 each ending December 1st. Burning Tree 'S/T' CANDY086 / Although Los Angeles was at the epicentre of the 'big hair' hard rock explosion during the 1980s, it was also a place where other, less flamboyant, musical renegades were carving out a niche for themselves. Groups such as Jane's Addiction and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers may have been ploughing a thoroughly modern path but deeper in the undergrowth lurked a retro centric three piece power trio by the name of Burning Tree. Taking their cue from late sixties Blues boomers such as Cream, Mountain and the Jimi Hendrix Experience they cooked up a musical soup by showboating a number of golden elements, including hard rock, psych, soul and blues. The power trio approach was, for the era, something of an exception, and focused the spotlight not on outrageous antics but squarely on the music. Marc Ford's guitar work was pivotal to the band's sound; a sinewy stylist with a carefully executed sound that placed the emphasis not on how many notes he could squeeze into each track but more on how much space he could leave for the song to breathe. No wonder the Black Crowes snapped him up immediately after Burning Tree's demise. Despite valiant efforts to the contrary, Burning Tree's expansive sound failed to connect with a mass audience, leaving the band with little choice but to splinter and eventually disband. Retro for sure, but in a strange way there's was also the sound of uncompromising futuristic blues. Track Listing: 1. Burning Tree 2. Wigs, Blues And High Heeled Shoes 3. Fly On 4. Mistreated Lover 5. Masquerade 6. Playing In The Wind 7. Last Laugh 8. Crush 9. Same Old Story 10. Baker's Song 11. Baby Blue 12. Turtle BONUS TRACKS: 13. Burning Tree (Live) 14. Fly On (Live) 15. Mistreated Lover (Live) 16. Same Old Story (Live). Circus Of Power 'Vices' CANDY085 / During the late 1980s New York played host to a number of crucial hard rock contenders, including the Throbs, Smashed Gladys, Raging Slab and, of course, Circus Of Power. The latter's debut album, although failing to set the charts on fire, had blown the proverbial roof off with its brazen mix of low-slung guitar worship and a surly attitude to rival the best of West Coast rivals Guns 'N' Roses. The perfect set-up, in fact, for album #2. Produced, like the debut album, by Daniel Rey and titled 'Vices' (for obvious reasons), Circus Of Power's sophomore release is finely hewn from a similar block of tough granite. Big riffs peppered with throat ripping vocals atop huge blasts of guitar are the order of the day, all expertly inserted into some of the most combustible songs the band ever penned. Incredibly, despite universal praise, the album failed to propel them into the upper echelons of the hard rock elite, leaving the band floundering in shallow water on a label that couldn't quite get to grips with such radically charged music. The band's last hurrah for RCA was the release of a five track live EP recorded in New York (included here as bonus material) before agreeing to disagree with the label and moving on to the more welcoming arms of Sony. 'Vices' remains, however, an essential, overlooked classic of its kind, a record that has found its place with the passing of time. Track Listing: 1. Gates Of Love 2. Desire/Fire In The Night 3. Two River Highway 4. Vices 5. Don't Drag Me Down 6. Last Call Rosie 7. Doctor Potion 8. Los Angeles 9. Got Hard… 10. Temptation 11. Junkie Girl 12. Simple Man/Simple Woman BONUS TRACKS: 13. Gates Of Love (Live) 14. Call Of The Wild (Live) 15. Los Angeles (Live) 16. Vices (Live) 17. How Many More Times (Live).   xx EVERGREY GET GLORIOUS: Occasionally a musician has to take a step back into the past to develop artistically. Tom Englund, guitarist and vocalist with Swedish rock group Evergrey, took this risk and reorganised his artistic environment. "The most recent Evergrey line-up had reached a point where we no longer had fun as a group," he confesses, adding: "So we went our separate ways to save our friendship. There were no angry words, and we're still friends privately." Naturally, the decision to break up wasn't easy for these long-standing friends, especially for Englund and his remaining keyboardist, Rikard Zander, for whom a continuation of Evergrey was never called into question. Yet they both had to face a new challenge: "In the beginning, we weren't sure whether we'd be able to write a new album without the wealth of experience that the previous line-up brought in. But after Rikard and I had composed a full three numbers during the first week, we felt that was a real coup." Listeners will feel this positive energy throughout Glorious Collision, the band's eighth studio album, which is due for release on 28 February 2011 (Germany: 25 February 2011; USA/Canada: 22 February 2011) on Steamhammer/SPV. A dynamic goody bag featuring the most diverse material ever released on an Evergrey album. "This may sound like a contradiction in view of our personnel situation, but Rikard and I have allowed more influences on Glorious Collision than ever before. Some elements on Glorious Collision are classic rock, based on a metal format, sometimes the tracks are quiet and haunting, sometimes wild, demanding and gripping." This diversity is also expressed in the instrumentation of this extremely dynamic studio production which presents the new band members Marcus Jidell (guitar), Hannes Van Dahl (drums) and Johan Niemann (bass). "It's great to hear what a breath of fresh air Marcus, Johan and Hannes have brought into the band," Englund enthuses. "Although the entire material, except for two songs to which Marcus contributed on the compositional side, had already been decided when we started recording, they all left their own, very personal mark on this album." The great experience of Jidell and Niemann, who have worked with acts such as Royal Hunt and Therion, among others, and have now contributed lots of positive energy together with the 20-year-old drummer, Van Dahl, can be felt throughout the album. Tracks: Leave It Behind Us * You * Wrong * Frozen * Restoring The Loss * To Fit The Mold * Out Of Reach * The Phantom Letters * The Disease ... * It Comes From Within * Free * I´m Drowning Alone * ... And The Distance * ... And The Distance ("Carina" - Bonustrack for limited digipak with female vocals). Evergrey live 2010: 25.11. SE/FI – Stockholm/Turku – Silja Galaxy Cruise 16.12. D-Bochum - Matrix 17.12. NL-Rotterdam – Baroeg 18.12. NL-Kerkrade – The Rock Temple 19.12. D-Ludwigsburg – Rockfabrik 20.12. CH-Pratteln - Galerie WebLinks: www.evergrey.net / www.myspace.com/spvmusic.   MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new features: - Crossfire - Battlefront (Rare Album) - F.K.M. - Demos (UK 89)(4 Tracks) - Mindstorm (Unreleased LP) - Maeday (Rare 1987 Album) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, November 18, 2010

MR. BIG HIT BACK IN EUROPE WITH THE RELEASE OF WHAT IF…: Frontiers Records is proud to announce the highly anticipated European release of Mr. Big's new studio album entitled What If… on January 21, 2011. The North American release, also on Frontiers records, shall follow in February with more exciting details to be announced! What If… is Mr. Big's first "all original" album since the reunion of the four original members, Eric Martin, Paul Gilbert, Billy Sheehan and Pat Torpey back in early 2009. Sixteen years after the release of Hey Man, the new recording is set to bring back MR. BIG on the height of the current Hard Rock scene. Guitarist Paul Gilbert said: "This is the first MR. BIG album I have been a part of, since fourteen years and it was done in a snap. It was fun and we had really a good time in making this one". Continues Billy Sheehan "It's so great to be back with Paul, Eric and Pat too. We wrote this record like we did in the old days for the first 2 records. Jamming together in the same room to write songs". Pat Torpey adds "Some of the recording process is different now from what we were used to in the old times. But I think this record really managed to capture the performances of the band, not of the individual musicians". Eric Martin concludes: "I like to compare this to the first album, when we just got to know each other in a rehearsal studio and cut it in 8 or 9 days. This is like chapter 2. We had so many years, so many records and so many things behind us. Now this feels like a beautiful brand new chapter starting for all of us". What If… was produced by Kevin Shirley (Journey, Aerosmith, Rush, Iron Maiden) and the release will be followed by a World Tour which will kick off in South America in March and will hit Europe in early summer. Formed in 1988, Mr. Big forged its place in hard rock history by combining trademark "shredding" musicianship with awesome vocal harmonies. The original line-up ­ vocalist Eric Martin, guitarist Paul Gilbert, bassist Billy Sheehan, and drummer Pat Torpey. Mr. Big produced numerous hit songs that ranged across a wide array of rock genres ­ be it ballads, heavy metal, or blues rock. Their hits included "To Be With You" (Billboard Hot 100 number one single in 15 countries for weeks, in 1991, propelling the band the band to huge international success and record sales in the multi-millions), "Wild World", Green-Tinted sixties Mind", "Just Take My Heart", and a host of heavy metal songs that were played mostly during their live performances: "Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy", "Addicted to that Rush", "Colorado Bulldog", and "Take Cover". "What If…" will be released in a special edition CD + DVD in digipak, regular CD, vinyl and digital download and in a limited edition luxury box including the CD, DVD, LP and exclusive memorabilia. "What If…" track listing includes: Undertow; American Beauty; Stranger In My Life; Nobody Takes the Blame; Still Ain't Enough for Me; Once Upon a Time; As Far As I Can See; All The Way Up; I Won't Get In My Way; Around The World; I Get The Feeling; Unforgiven (exclusive bonus track for Europe / North America ­ not on vinyl edition). The DVD will include the video clips of "Undertow" and "All the Way Up" plus a documentary "Making of" the album including interviews and exclusive behind the scenes features of the four members. The first single "Undertow" will have an official promotional launch on November 27.   Just to add a few comments since I have been most fortunate to hear the new record - this is a seriously hard rocking Mr. Big album. It has the raw energy and feel of the debut, with the intimacy of Lean Into It and even a little of the Hey Man mood. But above all - this sounds like a fresh, energized Mr. Big and in places, heavier than ever. There is an updated contemporary feel to several of the tracks, especially in Paul Gilbert's sound, while on other tracks, it is as if the band was recording a sequel to Lean Into It. And I have to say that the entire album is riddled with shredding Paul & Bill guitar and bass solos and a pummeling drum sound. And Eric Martin sounds as if he hasn't aged a day since 1991. A few personal favourites at this early time: Undertow - hard hitting, but moody melodic rocker with a vibe similar to Take Cover from Hey Man. Very commercial. American Beauty - Straight ahead uptempo hard rocker with a hook. Stranger In My Life - big commercial ballad, but still rocks. Just Take My Heart perhaps? But better! Nobody Takes the Blame & Still Ain't Enough for Me - Heavy heavy heavy! Around The World - Big rock n roll anthem. I Get The Feeling - Another big harmonious chorus. A full track by track review in the weeks to come. But not a weak track in sight on What If...   VAN HALEN CONFUSION CONTINUES: Preface: I know you folks are just gonna love this… Earlier today I was contacted by the office of Larry Solters – spokesman for Van Halen asking me to give him a call. I did so and was asked to pass on clarification of my Van Halen news item earlier this week. It seems there was some surprise in the VH camp following my news and the official word is that… "none of it was true." Yep…incredibly, the official word is that there is "no tour on the books" right now and "no new album on the books". Mr. Solters did concede that the guys hung out together "working on stuff", but as of right now – no album, no tour in 2011. He kindly added that I'd be the first to know when there was news. That's all I have to add right now. Safe to say that this rebuke has not put me off digging deeper into this and I'll report back when possible. I'll leave it up to you Van Halen fans to choose what to believe! FRONTIERS RECORDS - NEW MAGAZINE OUT: Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of Melodic Rock Fanzine. The 41st release of the label's successful magazine is available for free all over the world through record shops, mail-orders and every fine dealer carrying the Frontiers Records releases. Here are the previews of the two Melodic Rock Fanzine covers:   This new issue includes reviews and interviews of Nelson, The Poodles, Darkwater, Signum Regis, F.E.A.S.T., Perfect View, Poison Sun, Prime Suspect, Jeff Scott Soto, Vega, Allen Lande, Michael Bormann... and more! Electronic readble version of the magazine is available on the Frontiers official site and here. NEW BOOK LAUNCHED 'A DRUMMER'S PERSPECTIVE': A Drummer's Perspective is an original and unrivalled collection of over 200 photographs celebrating the world of drumming. This large format book brings together some of the finest unseen photographs of legendary drummers. It is a unique collection of pictures taken by the author David Phillips, who has been given rare access on stage and behind the scenes to many of the biggest bands in the world. These images capture the raw emotion and sheer excitement of playing live: You'll be able to see the view from behind the kit on stage in front of tens of thousands of people, get up close to the action at sound checks and see exceptional shots of some of the most amazing rock concerts and festivals. The book features over hundred drumming legends from every type of genre and includes new photos of Dave Grohl, Joey Jordison, Zak Starkey, Ginger Baker, Dominic Howard, Neil Peart, Nicko McBrain, Mitch Mitchell, Roger Taylor, Dennis Chambers, Mike Portnoy, Nick Mason, Alex Acuña, Dave Weckl, Josh Freese, Chad Smith, Joey Castillo, Thomas Lang and this list goes on and on! Renowned drummer, Terry Bozzio has written the foreword. Each picture is accompanied with details of where and when it was taken, recollections and anecdotes from the author, together with tour memorabilia such as backstage and photo passes. The powerful images and text give a fascinating insight to drummers, their playing and their world. This coffee table book retails for £29.99 and can be purchased exclusively from www.music-images.co.uk . It will go on sale from December 6 and pre-orders can be placed via the website before this to reserve your copy in time for Christmas.

 

 

OUT NOW! MelodicRock Records is proud to announce the release of yet another debut album - this time Italian symphonic metal outfit Violet Sun. Their debut album Loneliness In Supremacy is available for shipping as of now. Melodic Rock retailers will have this in stock release mid-late next week.     The core of Violet Sun goes back to 2005, when Dario Grillo (Platens, Thy Majesty) heard the voice of Alessandra Amata, a singer of great talent of Catania, well known in the Sicilian musical circle. Dario had some interesting unpublished work that proposed to her. Alessandra immediately showed herself to be very enthusiastic about the project and so in a few months they began to work to the drawing up and the realization of the songs contained in the debut album. Loneliness In Supremacy is not a normal Metal album, but a real blended work in which the styles such as classic and opera music, heavy metal, oriental, progressive and AOR blend perfectly together to create powerful and memorable melodies. This record places itself midway between a real Metal Opera (Avantasia, Aina, Nostradamus) and bands as Nightwish, Epica, Kamelot. MelodicRock Records owner Andrew McNeice: "There is nothing harder in this scene than breaking in a new name, but just as my other signings have impressed, so to did Violet Sun. One listen and I called upon Dario to sign up. I wasn't looking for a heavier project to add to the label, but taking each release on its merits, this just screamed out for attention. The production is simply world class. Intense themes, immense arrangements and the power and emotion of the material appealed to me instantly. I am very happy to have such a strong group of artists involved in the label and Violet Sun only enhances that. Female fronted symphonic melodic metal at its best!"   The album comes with 12 powerful tracks and a deluxe 16 page booklet featuring the outstanding artwork of CadiesArt (Degreed). Track Listing (and audio samples): 01) Dust In The Wind 02) Inside Out 03) Midnight [Instrumental] 04) When The Lights Go Down 05) Cross The Line 06) Falling In Love 07) Where Is My Way Home 08) My Flame Still Burns 09) Pray On The Grave 10) Break Your Chains 11) Synthetic Pleasures 12) Loneliness In Supremacy [Instrumental] WebLinks: www.myspace.com/violetsunofficial / www.facebook.com/pages/Violet-Sun/219691939228 / www.melodicrockrecords.com     xxxx Some early reviews of "Loneliness In Supremacy": "Right from the start, there was this cherry blossom fragrance that heralded the special character of the album. Special because I knew this journey would take several attentive listens before it would sink in. Special because there is so much going on here, any description will be inaccurate. After his break with Thy Majestie, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Dario Grillo kept himself busy with his new female-fronted band Violet Sun. Loneliness In Supremacy, the band's elegant debut, makes you dig through layers and layers of symphonic edges that draw up the blueprint, enough progressive hooks to prevent the album from being easy digestible, and even a few gothic abstracts which give color to the darker sides of the album. Clearly Grillo had still many more bright ideas up his sleeve, as Loneliness In Supremacy abounds in creativity, variety and versatility. Loneliness In Supremacy is a still-evolving journey. At one point I thought I had reached the heart of the album, where seemingly unrelated emotions are woven together. But then that thrill was gone as quickly as it had come, entangled in debris, and I knew I had to start all over again. A real tease indeed." - www.metalstorm.net/pub/review.php?review_id=8061. "Violet Sun's music has its core in Symphonic Power Metal, with a wide variety of influences ranging from Gothic Metal and Progressive Metal. We like how the futuristic sounding keyboards enrich the music and make it sound very different than most bands (a lot like Anthropia). The overall Symphonic atmosphere of the album is top notch and creates a very unique world to "Loneliness in Supremacy". The female vocals feature a nice range and a very unique sound to them, allowing them to have (yet another) identifier to their own sound. The choir sections are just more icing on top of the cake, and just and grandiosity to the songs where they are used. "Loneliness in Supremacy" is a majestic release that has all the right elements and the correct sound to get worldwide acclaim. With the use of Sax, oriental instruments, a full on opera choir, and mastering by Mika Jussila, the band means serious business. If you like Power Metal, Progressive Metal, or Gothic Metal, give Violet Sun a try you will not regret it." - www.infernalmasquerade.com/?q=reviews%2F001071-violet-sun-%E2%80%93-loneliness-supremacy-2010.

 

 

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

TED POLEY ANNOUNCES NEW KEYBOARD PLAYER: Danger Danger vocalist Ted Poley announces the addition of guitarist/ keyboardist Paul LaPlaca to his solo touring band. LaPlaca has previously worked with such acts as ZO2, Zandelle and Chris Caffrey of Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Savatage. Poley's current roster also includes drummer Dennis Leeflang (Lita Ford, Bumblefoot), guitarist Maz Mazza (40 Ft. Ringo, Detroit Cheeta) and bassist Doug Odell (All Pointz West, Ice Age). The new lineup is scheduled to make its live debut on December 3rd, 2010 at Klubben Fryshuset in Sweden. Paul's inclusion in Ted's touring band continues a busy year for the multi-talented musician, which most recently saw him serving as associate producer of the new album from SplitScreen Entertainment, "Whole Lotta Love: An All-Star Salute to Fat Chicks." For this unique project, LaPlaca produced 5 tracks in total, working with members of L.A. Guns, Quiet Riot, W.A.S.P. and Twisted Sister. "It's just been a crazy year so far and every day is completely different." states the in-demand Paul LaPlaca. "Working on the 'Whole Lotta Love' album was an incredible experience, with so many different styles and such outstanding musicians. After that I was able to squeeze in some tech duties for one of my all-time favorite bands, Living Colour. In between I worked a Disney fashion show and manned a camera for insanely talented drummer Jojo Mayer. I was even flown from New York to Tampa to shoot a product demo for Rocktron. Now instead of taking a break, I'm preparing for the European festival date with Ted Poley, a reunion show with members of October Thorns and a live set of metalized Hanukkah favorites with NY's own Gods of Fire. I guess I can sleep when I'm DEAD!" Making LaPlaca's induction into Poley's band all the more appropriate is the fact that he'd previously produced a song called "Ted Poley" for the 2008 tribute album "Kiss My Ankh: A Tribute To Vinnie Vincent." A parody of the Kiss song "Unholy" by Vincent and Gene Simmons, the song was performed by rock & roll comic C.C. Banana and even featured current Poley bandmate Dennis Leeflang on drums. The track has proven to be a favorite with Ted's fans and has been used to open his solo shows ever since. Considering that Poley himself recently signed with ARM Entertainment (management firm of such notable talent as Bret Michaels, L.A. Guns and Dokken), Paul anticipates keeping busy for foreseeable future. SECOND ALBUM REUNITES BROTHERS AND SEPULTURA PRINCIPAL MEMBERS MAX AND IGGOR CAVALERA: New York, NY: Cavalera Conspiracy announced today the title of their second album, Blunt Force Trauma. The band released Inflikted in 2008 to much critical and fan acclaim. The album was a momentous occasion in the heavy metal universe, as it reunited brothers Max and Iggor Cavalera for the first time since Max left Sepultura in 1996. The Brothers Cavalera co-founded Sepultura, the Brazilian metal band that redefined and established the genre outside of the US and Europe. After Max exited the band, there was a rift between himself and his brother, one that was eventually repaired through the redemptive power of music. Some time had passed and Max and Iggor were unable to resist the musical pull in their magnetic fields and their musical collaboration was renewed. The duo are back for round two with Cavalera Conspiracy. Cavalera Conspiracy's lineup is filled out by guitarist Marc Rizzo, who plays with Max in Soulfly, and bassist Johnny Chow. Blunt Force Trauma is due out in March via Roadrunner Records. The track listing is: 1. Warlord 2. Torture 3. Lynch Mob 4. Killing Inside 5. Thrasher 6. I Speak Hate 7 . Target 8. Genghis Khan 9. Burn Waco 10. Rasputin 11. Blunt Force Trauma. WHO'S GOT NEW RHINO BUCKET: Fresh off the success of their first European tour in 20 years, Rhino Bucket immediately returned to the studio with ace producer Doug Boehm (Dirty Sweet, The Vines) at the helm. The hard rockin' result is Who's Got Mine, their sixth studio album and third on Acetate Records. Recorded at legendary Hollywood rock-shack Grandmaster Recorders, the disc features original members Georg Dolivo & Reeve Downes, accompanied by Brian "Damage" Forsythe (KIX) and touring drummer Anthony "Tiny" Biuso (TSOL, The Dickies). A full-scale European tour starts Jan. 6, US dates to follow! In Stores Feb 8, 2011 - Pre-orders ship Jan. 15!   MELODIC BRIEFS: Don't Stop Believin' – The Untold Story Of Journey by Neil Daniels is published early next year by Omnibus Press. More details to follow. Visit www.neildaniels.com and neildanielsbooks.wordpress.com for more info. Sign up tot he new Eddie Money mailing list at: www.eddiemoney.com and receive a free download of Eddie's new song One More Soldier Coming Home. On this weeks Hair Metal Haven, Chris Nelson will be talking to Bangalore Choir vocalist David Reece about the new album Cadence, what it was like to replace Udo in Accept, and his plans for a new solo album. Also on the show Chris will be talking to Jules from new Australian rockers White Widow. The interview is Chris's first 18 & Life chat in which he discusses 18 close and personal questions about their likes and dislikes. So tune in this Saturday 20th November 17.00-19.00 GMT, only on www.phoenixradio.co.uk. GENE SIMMONS PRESENTS THE ENVY: Following his keynote address this week at the M For Montreal music conference, rock legend and business magnate Gene Simmons will introduce the city to the first signing of his Simmons Records/Universal Music Canada imprint: the Toronto-based rock quintet The Envy. The first-come, first-served free concert will take place at 8:30pm on Wednesday, 17th November @ Cafe Campus. The 60-minute set will also be filmed in conjunction with the celebrated reality television series Gene Simmons: Family Jewels. The Envy will release their debut album, recorded with JUNO award-winning producer Gavin Brown (Billy Talent, Metric, Three Days Grace) as well as the legendary songwriter/producer Desmond Child (Katy Perry, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Tokyo Hotel), in early 2011. The band has toured across North America with such contemporaries as KISS, Marianas Trench, The Midway State and Stereos. Event Details: Date: Wednesday, 17th November 2010 Doors: 7:30pm Performance: 8:30pm to 9:30pm Venue: Cafe Campus Address: 57 rue Prince Arthur Est (corner St-Laurent) Online: theenvymusic.com / myspace.com/theenvymusic. Y&T IN MADRID: MetalSymphony.com has posted pictures from Y&T's November 9th show in Madrid, Spain at Sala Heineken. Pictures of support act Lynch Mob are also available. Go to this location to check it out: www.metalsymphony.com/galeria/thumbnails.php?album=295. Y&T's setlist on the night was as follows: Highway To Hell/Prelude, On With The Show, Hard Times, Mean Streak, Lonely Side Of Town, Shine On, If You Want Me, Lipstick & Leather, Hurricane, I'm Coming Home, I Believe In You, Eyes Of A Stranger, Midnight in Tokyo, Blind Patriot, I'll Cry For You, Black Tiger, Mike Drums Solo, Rock & Roll's Gonna Save the World, Dirty Girl, Summertime Girls, Forever, Winds of Change, Open Fire, Rescue Me. TRIUMPH BASSIST MIKE LEVINE FEATURED IN NEW THE RIGHT TO ROCK PODCAST: TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest Podcast (episode #110), featuring Triumph Bassist Mike Levine. Mike took time out of his busy schedule to discuss Triumph's new greatest hits package, Mike discusses what it was like going through the video archives to put this DVD together as well as what it was like remixing the classics, Interview lasts approx. 35 min. These days it seems like everybody's throwing the horns up sign like they're running for office, with Hollywood starlets wearing classic (and probably original – meaning they cost $100-200 from some vintage clothing store) metal band t-shirts. The question is, how should we as metal fans feel about this? Is it cool? Is it disrespectful? Should we be happy or angry? And what does it mean for the state of metal? Join Genghis and Ragman as they ponder this topic and much more, following with legendary Triumph bassist Mike Levine for a chat. Mike Discusses Triumph's latest greatest hits package as well as the future of the classic band.

 

 

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

VAN HALEN - 2011 STILL SHAPING UP FOR A BIG YEAR: Let's great straight to it - it's been quiet in the Van Halen camp since a wave of expectation and excitement broke following news leaks a few months back regarding a possible new album and tour for 2011. The Tour: The band will tour extensively in 2011, taking in North America, likely European dates and even some Australian dates, which local newspaper the Herald Sun stated Sunday - [VH] "...are very close to confirming an Oz visit next year..." The line-up will remain as it was for the 2007 tour - Eddie, Alex, Wolfgang and David Lee Roth. The New Album: Numerous reports about new music coming from the band are true. There is new music recorded with the expectation of an all-new studio album featuring David Lee Roth to be released in 2011. What is not known right now is the time frame for this. Here is what I was told. It seems DLR's vocals are being recorded away from the 5150 studio, with Eddie receiving various vocal tracks from the singer, but not always to the guitarist's satisfaction. I'm told that it's work in progress between Eddie and Dave. I also heard, but cannot confirm, that Eddie has recorded most of the bass parts for the album. There is a deal in place between Warner Bros. and the band for a new album (as announced a few months back). However, I'm told there is a genuine fear from the label that the album may now not be ready before tour commitments begin. The album was definitely expected to be released in early 2011, but there has been so much going back and forth and re-arranging, so if the recordings are not turned in by early 2011, the label have developed a contingency plan. That is preparing re-masters of the Sammy Hagar era catalogue (curious decision perhaps, but the only albums left to do), as well as preparing Blue-Ray releases of Live Without a Net and Live Right Here Right Now so at least there is something on the market when the band tours. Additionally they are preparing limited edition Vinyl releases, which have just appeared on the Rhino/Warner schedule. 1984, Women And Children First and Van Halen II will be released on LP December 13. And to close - the band apparently tested a few different producers, but the man at the helm for this album is one Ross Hogarth. Go look him up. His website makes no mention of any work with Van Halen, but in July he did make one reference to a new record he was starting. He stated: "The record I just started ROCKS!!! [it] will be amazing...that is all I will say..." Stay tuned as always...more soon. A PRIMAL UPDATE FROM SOLO RALF: The forthcoming solo album from Primal Fear singer Ralf Scheepers is in the very final stages of production. Some very special guests agreed to appear - the list includes guitarists "Metal" Mike Chlasciak (Halford), Kai Hansen (Gamma Ray), Sander Gommans (After Forever) and Magnus Karlsson (Primal Fear, Allen/Lande). Powerhouse American vocalist Tim "Ripper" Owens (Yngwie Malmsteen, Judas Priest, Iced Earth) is dueting with Scheepers in the track "Remission Of Sin", Swedish multi-instrumentalist Snowy Shaw (Therion, Dream Evil, King Diamond, Dimmu Borgir) appears on drums and Primal Fear's Mat Sinner is playing bass on the entire LP and produced the album. Achim Koehler is currently in the final stages of the mixing session and will shortly be mastering the production. Scheepers revealed that his upcoming solo album will include a remake of his song "Saints Of Rock" Scheepers originally recorded with his band Tyran Pace and a cover version of the Judas Priest classic "Before The Dawn'. "'Saints Of Rock' is gonna be, of course, a little bit more modern and updated than it was [when the original version was recorded] in 1986," he explained. "I mean, right now we have much more possibilities to make songs sound a little bit more modern, starting with the drum sound and the bass sounds." He added, "I think 'Before The Dawn' pretty much is a straight cover, but the first song I'm playing (nearly) all instruments — just a little more orchestral things going on. Vocal-wise, I just added harmony vocals, plus the two outstanding guitar solos by maestro Victor Smolski (Rage). The album is like a trip through my entire career from hard driven crushing metal, groovy heavy beats, orchestral epic to stripped down basic songs and of course some nice surprises!" The musical direction of his forthcoming solo CD is more diverse than Primal Fear, from the hardest to the softest tones. The album was recently presented to the German press and some of the reactions included: "A varied, magic masterpiece! Intensive, passionate and faithful - a terrific singer!" - Markus Wosgien (Rock It!, EMP, Blast!) "A surprisingly varied and still compact metal-masterpiece, that leaves nothing to be desired!" - Andreas Schöwe (Metal Hammer) "The vocals and the songwriting are just terrific and you've never experienced Ralf Scheepers so relaxed. The album is a hit! Does the world needs a solo album of the Primal Fear singer? Yes, of course!" - Birgit Braeckle (Breakout) Frontiers plans to release the album in February 2011.   FOREIGNER CAN'T SLOW DOWN LIVE: Foreigner will release a double live album next week. Can't Slow Down … When It's Live! is released in Europe via earMUSIC. "Can't Slow Down is about fresh starts," said founding guitarist Mick Jones. "For the band, it was a chance to step out from the shadow of the past and establish its own identity. Personally, the album helped me reclaim my confidence as an artist and rediscover the fun of making music again." Last year, Foreigner unleashed their first studio album in 15 years – Can't Slow Down – but their new live album also includes plenty of old-school Foreigner hits. Keeping up their live momentum, Foreigner recently announced plans to tour the U.K. with Journey and Styx next summer. Can't Slow Down … When It's Live! track list: CD1: 1. "Double Vision" 2. "Head Games" 3. "Cold as Ice" 4. "In Pieces" 5. "Blue Morning, Blue Day" 6. "Waiting for a Girl Like You" 7. "When it Comes to Love". CD2: 1. "Feels Like the First Time" 2. "Urgent" 3. "Juke Box Hero" 4. "Long, Long Way From Home" 5. "I Want to Know What Love Is" 6. "Hot Blooded" 7. "Can't Slow Down" (bonus track).   YESTERROCK RELEASE INFORMATION NOVEMBER 2010: Michael C. Dragon - Dragon Of Transylvania / release date: 19.11.2010 / Michael C. Dragon's album 'Dragon Of Transylvania' originally was released as private pressing on the artist's own label in 1997 and is one of the best Melodic Rock records from this era. Dragon, the composer and singer on this record, is also well known from his contributions to the 'German Rock Project' album in 1991. Today, the original Michael C. Dragon 7-track album is one of the most sought after collector's item of the genre and especially appeals to fans of early Bon Jovi, Whitesnake and Blue Tears material. Remastered and re-released through Yesterrock incl. three bonus tracks, this lost treasure now is available again for a reasonable price. A absolutely must for any fan of this genre! Lyraka - Lyraka Vol. 1 / release date: 26.11.2010 / Lyraka is a heavy metal opera written by composer Andy DiGelsomina. The CD, 'Lyraka Volume 1', is the first in a set, featuring vocal performances by Graham Bonnet (Rainbow, Alcatrazz), Tommy Heart (Soul Doctor, Uli Jon Roth, Fair Warning), and Veronica Freeman (Benedictum). The Lyraka opera is the heavy metal event of the century. Never before has there been a Wagnerian Opera approach applied to guitar-driven heavy metal music. In the tradition of Richard Wagner's 'Ring der Nibelungen', Lyraka's allegorical concept is presented in a musico-literary fashion . The music of Lyraka ROCKS and follows the traditions of bands like Black Sabbath, Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, Manowar, and Kreator. The cover artwork was created by Ken Kelly who also designed artwork for Rainbow and Manowar. Janina And The Deeds - Last Girl Standing / release date: 15.10.2010 / Rough, straight, upright! With only few instruments, but a clear attitude, Janina and the Deeds are beating at the pulse of time. Janinas exceptional talent for smashing tunes, the vivid lyrics of Dominoe-Singer Jörg Sieber and the straight production style of Robert Papst: 'they get together in an awesome way and created 11 rock-songs, which in their harsh presence partly remind of 1970es punk and rock music with a modern appeal'. Last Girl Standing Janina Dietz completed classical singing instructions and worked as an actress on Berlin theatres. In New York she deepened her education in the arts. Recordings for the Berlin pop-project 'Soul's Travesty' followed. As a studio-singer, Janina Dietz has been working for many German musicians. Since 2009 she also has worked as a presenter for Power Radio Berlin, FM. The album Last Girl Standing is mastered by Gavin Lurrsen, Los Angeles, who worked with artists like Matchbox 20, Robert Plant and Sheryl Crow. Janina and the Deeds' agenda is filled up with several live-gigs. The album includes a video clip from the current single 'Bye, Bye, Bye'. Walk The Wire - Walk The Wire / release date: 26.11.2010 / Walk The Wire were a five-piece, keyboard-driven AOR band from the UK which was active during the mid 90's. Their self-titled album originally was released in 1994 and included 10 great AOR hymns in the tradition of fellow bands such as FM, Strangeways or Atlantic. The catchy tracks 'Nothing To Lose' and 'Crossfire' received numerous airplay at the time of the original release. Through the years, 'Walk The Wire' became a hard to find collector's item. Yesterrock now re-issues this pure gem of British 90's AOR with three bonus tracks and with an amazing re-mastered sound. Brian McDonald Group - Desperate Business / release date: 29.11.2010 / Brian McDonald has released three albums as a solo artist. 'Desperate Business' is the first out of these releases and was originally released in 1987 via Sony Music. This album impressively reflects the AOR sound of the 80's and awakens memories on the great Bon Jovi, Def Leppard and Winger in their early years. Catchy melodies and a keyboard-driven sound are the trademarks of this album. Later, Brian McDonald has released the records 'Wind It Up' in 2000 and 'Voyage' in 2003. 'Desperate Business' today is a real collector's item and will now be available through Yesterrock in collaboration with Sony Music for a reasonable price. All tracks have been digitally remastered.   xxxx SEBASTIAN BACH ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY BITING BAR STAFF: One of many news items around today... This one from: www.chartattack.com/news/2010/nov/15/nom-nom-nom-sebastian-bach-arrested-for-allegedly-biting-bar-staff "A rock star arrested for assault, marijuana possession and mischief? There's nothing out of the ordinary about that. But a rock star arrested for allegedly biting someone working at a bar? That's almost unheard of. Former Skid Row singer Sebastian Bach was arrested and charged with assault after allegedly smashing a wine glass and reportedly biting a staff member at a Peterborough, Ont. bar early this morning. According to The Canadian Press, Bach got into a fight with the staff at Riley's Old Towne Pub and was told to leave around midnight today, and threw a wine glass at the door when he was told he couldn't continue to get his drunk and take the wine with him. TMZ reports Bach was then held down until the cops showed up, but then decided to get all Mike Tyson on the owner of the bar and allegedly bit his left hand. Good thing it wasn't an ear. Right, Evander? Bach was charged with assault, marijuana possession and mischief under $5,000 and is due to appear on court today. LION MUSIC ARTIST UPDATES: Classic Swedish metal merchants Overdrive have signed a new licensing deal with Lion Music for the upcoming album Angelmaker, due out in January 2011. This time the band wrote and recorded 18 songs of which 12 are set to appear on the album. "This time we used a panel of 15 people to help us select which tracks to use. It was really great to hear what people outside of the band thought of the tracks before we decided on which to put on the album. Some of our own favourites were not as high up on the list as expected, while others were higher than expected, which was interesting. Hopefully our listening panel reflects the general public, which then would make this a killer album", says guitarist Janne Stark. The album was recorded by the band and Johan Blomquist (Blinded Colony, Kaptain Sun etc) and mixed by Pelle Saether (Grand Design, Diabolical, Wolf) at Studio Underground. "I have been working with Pelle on several other recordings, such as Locomotive Breath, Mountain Of Power and Zello, and he has an ability to understand and capture just the sound you're after. He did that this time, too. To be honest this is the best sounding Overdrive album to date", Janne continues. Overdrive still features original members Janne Stark and Kjell Jacobsson on guitars, Kenth Ericsson on bass and Kenta Svensson on drums, plus vocalist Per PeiolOz Karlsson who joined the band at the reunion in 2003 and has since been an integral part of the band. On December 3rd Overdrive will support Pretty Maids in Karlshamn (SWE), where the bands actually did a show together back in 1983! For more information and samples from the forthcoming album visit: www.overdrive.se.   With the release of Seventh Wonder's highly anticipated fourth album The Great Escape fast approaching on Dec 3, the band have announced details of the official release party which takes place the following day. The release party will also prove to be the end of an era for the band also marking the departure of drummer Johnny Sandin. The info is as follows: Saturday December 4th, 20:00 / Najespalatset in Bromma, Stockholm, Sweden / 100 SEK paid in cash at the door (no exceptions and no cash machine nearby!). www.brommanojespalats.se/brhitta.html. Full information on "The Great Escape" can be found at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/greatescape.htm.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Looks like the US 2011 tour circuit will feature a duel bill of Poison and Motley Crue. Poison frontman Brett Michaels meanwhile will release another solo album later this year or early next year - a contemporary country-Americana album tentatively titled Once A Cowboy, Always A Cowboy. Helix will release of their new acoustic album, Smash Hits Unplugged in January. Track listing: Rock You, Heavy Metal Love, Gimme Gimme Good Lovin', Make Me Do (Anything You Want), Wild In The Streets/No Rest For The Wicked, Deep Cuts The Knife, The Kids Are All Shakin', Dream On, That Day Is Gonna Come, Good To The Last Drop, A Touch of Magic. A new review of the Fenrik Lane album 317 can be viewed at: www.chambersofrock.blogspot.com/2010/11/fenrik-lane-317-album-review.html.

 

 

Monday, November 15, 2010

Swedish rockers Degreed have just released their killer debut album Life, Love, Loss through MelodicRock Records. It is available now at a number of good melodic rock retailers and a few more to come (news soon). Or purchase direct from MRR: www.melodicrockrecords.com/store. A few early reviews are in. This from Kaj Roth at melodic.net: "Over a year ago I got to hear the un-mastered untitled debut from Swedish AOR band Degreed and I was amazed by their impressive cover of Steve Perry's "Captured By The Moment", I also thought they had lots of potential on their original tunes as well but I never thought it would sound this good as the final product "Life Love Loss". The songs have been mastered and the album has a much bigger and heavier sound which is super, they deliver a heavier style of AOR but of course done with class. Their fellow countrymen in H.E.A.T couldn't have written a better tune than "A little bit", roll out the red carpet because these guys should walk up to the next years Grammy Awards nominated as the best new rock album from Sweden. Treat and H.E.A.T are not alone my dear friends, if the opening track "B.O.D" or the excellent "Captured By The Moment" won't get you knocked out. I don't know what will!" And...Dave Laroxx: "It really rocks. Lots of good stuff." John Patrick (Radio Caroline): "What do I say about "Degreed"? It is utterly fantastic. It is one of the strongest sets of music I have received in a very long time. I will be including them in my "Newband" slot where I will tell the audience about the band and play about 5/6 tracks from the CD."   Now hear the songs and read a track by track commentary from the band: 01. B.O.D. - I've had this riff laying around for a couple of years and wanted to show it to the guys and as soon as we started jammin' away - magic was in the air! It turned out great and also one of the heavier songs on the album and a personal favorite too! - Micke Jansson 02. Arms of Misery [Full Length Download] - The song on the record taking the longest amount of time to finish, it took over three months until it started to take shape as a song. Even after the three months spent writing the song we developed the song later along with our producer Erik Lidbom, who also added strings, additional synths and beats which really lifted the song. Daniel wrote the lyrics to this one, a song that defines the name of the record - "life, love, loss". It has always been a favorite of mine. - Mats Ericsson 03. A Little Bit - I wrote this song along with Erik Lidbom, our producer. He came up with the music and I wrote the lyrics. This is the last song that we wrote/recorded before releasing the album, and I think it's a step closer to a more commercial level. - Robin Ericsson 04. Captured by the Moment - It's actually a cover song from Steve Perry's album "Street Talk", which we choose to record cause we all just love the song. Some of us hadn't even heard the song before Robin came with the brilliant idea of recording it for our debut album but after he showed it the first time for everyone, we just knew that it would fit perfectly on the album. - Mats Ericsson 05. Just Imagine - The oldest song on the record! I think Robin wrote the basics back in 2001 or something. But somehow it stuck with us through the years and saw the light of day once again in 2010, after a much needed face-lift! A straight up, no bullshit, heavy rock tune! - Micke Jansson 06. Story of Life - This song is pretty old. I wrote it along with our former guitar player, Jonas Erikers, back in 2006. It brings the music back to the eighties rock, but with a heavier modern touch. One of the best lyrics I've ever written. - Robin Ericsson 07. Human Being? - Another song that's been with us for a while, even before degreed existed. The basics of the song's written back in 2003-04 but have since then been modified a bit and is actually a bit different on the record than the live version now as well. I think it's the only song on the record that has a slightly different sound than the others, it isn't as keyboard based as the other song – it's more guitar based. It's a real heavy tune and one of two songs were Daniel used a 7-string to get a real heavy guitar sound and it's just kick-ass. - Mats Ericsson 08. Color Me - "We need more cowbell". One day Daniel came to us with this really cool guitar riff which we immediately started to goof around with. I took it home one day and finished it. The lyrics just wrote themselves. Some fancy guitar-work by Jesper made the song fly and here we are. Great song! We actually never rehearsed this song before recording it. Respect. - Micke Jansson 09. Catch the Feeling - The first song I ever wrote together with Daniel. A charming piece of music. Something that we never would write today, but still a good song. - Robin Ericsson 10. Keep me Alive - Jonas Erkers, a good friend and former member of the band, actually wrote a lot of the music to this song and a bit of the lyrics as well. Me and Robin helped him with the lyrics he had and then wrote the rest of it when we sat on the bus home from a rehearsal while we still lived at our moms. After Jonas had shown us what he had music wise for the song we started dribbling with that and this is how it turned out. It was a pretty smooth song writing session. - Mats Ericsson 11. My Fall - I remember us sitting in our old rehearsal place in Skanstull and working on the vocal melodies on this beautiful tune! Happy times! Probably the smoothest and easiest song we ever wrote together! Everything just fell into place right away! - Micke Jansson 12. By Your Side - This one wasn't meant to be a degreed song at first. It's a very personal song which I wrote a few years ago. I was a lot into singer/songwriter artists like Ryan Adams and Damien Rice, and I think you can hear that in this song. It's a piano ballad and I'm very happy that it ended up at Degreed's first album! - Robin Ericsson.   xxxx RUSH CLASSIC NOW A FRESH POP SONG: Canadian pop sensation Nelly Furtado has just released her new single - a cover of the iconic Rush song Time Stands Still (actually my favourite Rush song ever!). She obviously turns it into a dance/pop tune, but does a fine job nevertheless. Nelly is a rare pop artist that can actually sing! (What a concept...). Check it out here: www.youtube.com/user/NellyFurtadoDaily#p/u/0/fgT1AA7wtSI. Rush's Geddy Lee responded with this: "She was part of a Canadian film called Score: A Hockey Musical. We got a call that she wanted to sing that song. It's really sweet of her to do that. I don't know how she came about choosing that song, but she obviously responded to it." JETBOY PARTS WAYS WITH MICKEY FINN, BEGINS EUROPEAN TOUR NOVEMBER 12: Press Release / "Parting ways with a family member is never easy, and believe us it was a bitter pill to swallow. When Mickey made his plans known that he would not be participating in the European tour, or the future of Jetboy the rest of the band were forced into action. As a group, Jetboy did not want to let fans down and back out of their first European tour, that being said, we immediately began the search. "We're all still friends, and we wish Mickey nothing but the best going forward. We are incredibly happy to have someone as professional as D.K Revelle to step in on a months notice and front the European tour" said founding member Billy Rowe. D.K. Revelle has a long pedigree, having worked coast to coast honing his craft. Most recently, D.K. fronted the band Beggar's Ball in Hollywood, California (2005-2008) recording two albums. D.K. was also the vocalist in the New York based act Feels Like Fiction, under the management of the famous Bill Aucoin (Kiss/Billy Idol). D.K. Revelle is the consummate front man, bringing not only professionalism and talent to the table, but a filthy-dirty rock and roll style that Jetboy fans have come to expect from the band. "From the moment we began to jam, the chemistry was undeniable" says founding guitarist Fernie Rod, "when something works, its effortless and it just makes sense. We're excited to bring Jetboy to our European fans for the first time in the band's history, and to tell you the truth, you are getting us at what feels like the best moment in Jetboy's storied career. This band is primed and ready to bring rock and roll from the gutters of California to the other side of the pond. Get ready Europe, we're gonna rock your ass off!" Jetboy is excited to announce the bands first ever European tour to support both the worldwide release of Now And Then (The Collection), as well as the European re-release of 'Damned Nation'. The re-release of 'Damed Nation' comes 20 years after the CD debuted to critical acclaim in 1990. The re-release comes with bonus tracks and a 16 page booklet that includes lyrics and rare photos of the band from that era. The disk was released on October 20th, and will be available throughout Europe and via the internet on Bad Reputation Records. The re-release of 'Damned Nation' comes fresh on the heels of their 'NOW AND THEN' release which includes a collection of songs from 1986-2010 available on Demon Doll Records which was released October 31. Jetboy's European tour will begin on November 11." MORE 7TH HEAVEN GOODIES: 7th heaven has 3 new releases available now at: www.7thheavenband.com: 1 - Jukebox - 700 song box-set of music from the 25 year history of the band 2 - Merry Christmas In Chicago - Christmas CD of 14 tracks (4 original) 3 - Live at Solider Field - DVD of band opening for Bon Jovi Entire Jukebox and Merry Christmas In Chicago CD available on Apple iTunes and can be previewed on the band's website. MELODIC BRIEFS: Brand new Petra soundclips form their upcoming album Back To The Rock: soundcloud.com/dpulse/sets/classic-petra-back-to-the-rock-preview. From Soul Secret: www.soulsecret.net / "We finally found the right bass player for us, his name is Claudio Casaburi! It's a talented musician and a wonderful guy, he will play on our next album as he recorded and composed every bass line on it. We look forward to let you feel his groove! We are proud to announce that we also met a great new singer, his name is Fabio Manda. The partnership starts immediately, Fabio will sing on our next album and will join our promotional tour! Fabio is a great frontman, has a powerful voice and a very nice personality... just what we need since the beginning!" UK rockers The Mercy House won the Kerrang competition to get their track Greed on the next 'Guitar Hero' game. Check out the link below and video clip of the final: warriorsofrock.kerrang.com. A new Harry Hess interview online now at: www.rockeyez.com. Spanish rockers RadioZ have just recorded a single with acclaimed European rock producer Michael Voss. Muertos despiertos can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvYD_57PLQw&hd=1. RadioZ MySpace: www.myspace.com/radiozombi. A Paul Shortino interview has just been posted at: www.solidrock.gr/index.php/lang-en/interviews/1795-paul-shortino-interview-october-2010. CHRISTMAS CHARITY RELEASE: Press Release / "We are excited to announce that our newest Charity Release "The Christmas Gift" which was released yesterday through our new charity imprint label There Is Hope Records. "The Christmas Gift" is not your traditional Holiday release in fact many of the songs are have nothing to do with Christmas or the Holidays rather they are songs from the heart. So you might ask yourself what is the purpose of this release called "The Christmas Gift" if it's not an album filled with holiday tracks. "The Christmas Gift" is an album of songs donated by 14 bands and or solo artists to help raise money for the homeless and displaced families. As many as 3.5 million Americans are homeless each year. Of these, more than 1 million are children and on any given night, more than 300,000 children are homeless and these stats only reflect homelessness in America. We are donating all proceeds to Habitat For Humanity via Music for Relief an organization set up by musicians and helping those in need." WebLink: thereishoperecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-christmas-gift.

 

 

Saturday, November 13, 2010

PERRY NOT RETURNING TO JOURNEY: There are widespread media reports online today attributed to a news item posted online, suggesting that Steve Perry had reached out to his former Journey band mates to rejoin the band. These reports are 100% false. There has been no contact between parties and Journey has a new studio album with vocalist Arnel Pineda due early 2011 and a full touring schedule planned through 2012. Any such rumors of Steve Perry's return are to be disregarded.

 

 

Friday, November 12, 2010

NEW REVIEWS: A whole ton of new Reviews have been added today...catching up with a lot of releases from 2010 that have yet to be covered. A lot of InBrief Reviews also. No matter the length of the review, do check them out, as there are a number of recommended releases in amongst today's reviewed titles. Reviews are now online for: Steve Lukather, Black Country Communion, James LaBrie, Bangalore Choir, White Widdow, The Poodles, Asia, Houston, H.E.A.T., Ozzy, Grand Illusion, Eric Martin, The Poor, Black Label Society, Tunnel, Casa Mendoza, Juke Kartel, John Norum, John Farnham, Dangered Ace, Goodbye Thrill, Boys Of The Band, Cry Wolf, Ides Of March, High Road Easy, AOR, Reckless Love, Ken's Dojo, Hartmann, Erik Gronwall, Masterplan, Robert Plant, Axel Rudi Pell, The Bluesmasters, D'Ercole, Leverage, Johnny Lima, Wicked Sensation and more... Read The New Reviews. METAL/AOR HEAVEN JANUARY RELEASES: TNT - A Farewell To Arms - Release: 21.01.2011 - With the release of "A Farewell To Arms", their third album with the current lineup, TNT returns to their roots. The music is more hard edged than on the last few albums, and the truth is you'll have to go all the way back to 1984's "Knights Of The New Thunder" to find the band so heavy. TNT was formed in Norway back in 1982, and the band released its eponymous debut album the following year. After some changes in the line up the classic "Knights Of The New Thunder" were released in the fall of 1984, by a band now consisting of extremely talented guitar player Ronni Le Tekrø, drummer Diesel Dahl, American singer Tony Harnell, and bass player Morty Black. Throughout the eighties the band released the melodic hard rock gems "Tell No Tales" and "Intuition", while building a fan base in Europe, America, and especially in Japan where "Intuition" became a hit. In the early nineties the band broke up, but TNT returned with a couple of more alternative hard rock albums later in the decade, before disappearing again. At the turn of the millennium TNT slowly began to rise once more, and came back with full force when "My Religion" was released to rave reviews in 2004. The band then started to fall apart, and as bass players changed at a rapid pace, singer Harnell left the band in 2006 to be replaced by Tony Mills. Diesel Dahl and Ronni Le Tekrö were by now the core of TNT, and in Victor Borge (ex Jack In The Box, Autopulver) they found a permanent bass player. When Tony Mills entered the scene TNT was finally a complete unit again, and released "The New Territory" in 2007. TNT have been touring extensively in Norway ever since, and at the same time been working on new music. This resulted in "Atlantis". "A Farewell To Arms" was produced by Tekrö at his Studio Studio, and the songs are mainly written by Tekrö and Mills. It still hasn't been an easy road for the band: just as the new album was finished Mills suffered a heart attack at Oslo's main airport, but quick response from the airports paramedics saved the singer's life. With the combination of Ronni's powerful riffs and great melodies TNT will once again please their fans with a catchy piece like "Don't Misunderstand Me", the groovy "Engine", more heavy stuff like "A Farewell To Arms" and "Take It Like A Man - Woman!", or a ballad like "God Natt, Marie". TNT are: Tony Mills - vocals, Ronni Le Tekrö - guitars, Victor Borge - bass, Diesel Dahl - drums. Track list: 01. Engine, 02. Refugee, 03. Ship In The Night, 04. Take It Like A Man – Woman, 05. Come, 06. Barracuda, 07. Signature On A Demon's Self Portrait, 08. Don't Misunderstand Me, 09. A Farewell To Arms, 10. Someone Else, 11. God Natt, Marie, 12. Harley Davidson. Soundfiles in advance: Refugee / Ship In The Night / Barracuda. For more infos: www.tnttheband.com.   xx Bad Habit - Atmosphere - Release: 21.01.2011 - It's all about 'striking a chord...' both musically and emotionally... It's about connecting with listener... at more than one level... It's about delivering powerful melodic rock that inspires people... and that triggers positive feelings, thoughts and actions...This has been the Bad Habit approach for many years... and continues to be so... now more than ever - with new album 'Atmosphere'... With their 10th album, Bad Habit cement their position as one of melodic rock's finest bands... once again delivering what will most likely become yet another classic album for the band… with everything from an outstanding production to superb songs with a high 'BFC' - factor (Big F...ing Chorus). With Hal Marabel in the producer seat and Jonas Reingold behind the mixer... you can't go wrong... For this album, a few outside songwriters were also invited to join the creative process... which turned out to be a fruitful collaboration... adding a new dimension to the overall Bad Habit sound expression... Formed in 1987 in Sweden, Bad Habit represent a diverse combination of musical talent and vast experience... that stretches the boundaries and conventions of the rock genre... Something that their fans have come to love and appreciate over the years...Bad Habit is about exceeding expectations... leading with example... and creating the right 'Atmosphere' to become your best... Enjoy the experience… Bad Habit are: Bax Fehling - Lead vocals; Hal Marabel - Guitars, keyboards; Sven Cirnski - Lead guitar; Patrik Södergren - Bass; Jaime Salazar - Drums. Tracklist: 1. In The Heat Of The Night, 2. Words Are Not Enough, 3. Every Time You Cry, 4. I Wanna Be The One, 5. I'll Die For You, 6. Angel Of Mine, 7. Fantasy, 8. We Are One, 9. Only Time Will Tell, 10. Break The Silence, 11. Save Me, 12. Catch Me When I Fall, 13. Without You. Soundfiles in advance: In The Heat Of The Night / Words Are Not Enough / Every Time You Cry. For more info: www.badhabitvip.com.   xx ROCK CITY ANGELS CD PARTY AT THE MUSE: November 19, mark it on your calendar, will be a big night for Rock City Angels - performing live with a forward march and a look back to the storyteller past, where they will be celebrating the release of Midnight Confessions on FnA Records, a collection of demos recorded from Memphis to England with Brian Robertson of Thin Lizzy fame on what would have been their second Geffen Records release. Bobby Durango talked about Midnight Confessions; a collection of demos spanning three years after the release of their first Geffen album Young Man's Blues. "We had the same A&R as Guns n Roses at Geffen and that is where they put their money and promotion". The label didn't give them an idea of when they would drop the second record, "The A&R guy just kept saying "This stuff is great but I don't hear THAT SONG, it was almost like Geffen was saying we are not going to put money into this". Rock City Angels went through several lineup changes that even included Brian Robertson of Thin Lizzy featured on "Heart and Soul" between 1989 and 1992 before they were sold a bad idea. "Bands are much more savvy now. I just wanted to be a musician, not a businessman. Our lawyer was in collusion with the label. He was the one who sold us on the idea of declaring Bankruptcy." Rock City Angels were told at the time by their own Lawyer that when it was done Geffen Records would sign them again, when in actuality it was a way to wash their hands of the band without having to buy them out of their contract. The tracks that make up Midnight Confessions are working demos that would have eventually made up their second Geffen release. Bobby isn't bitter, "If you listen to the record (Young Man's Blues) it still holds up, a lot of bands can't say the same thing." Bobby hates being lumped in with the hair band scene, "We were more like The Stones. It's time to clear the record. For the most part our fans know the difference". Rock City Angels has been busy this last year after the release of their newest material "Use Once and Destroy" a straight ahead rocker, "We were never about going after that elusive hit. We were after an overall theme like Aerosmith Rocks: A great album. Use Once and Destroy is what would be an official follow up to their first album. They will feature at least two gems from Midnight Confessions, ""Sweet Ambition" sounds killer and we have never done it live. We have an updated arrangement of "Shattered Shake"". Neither song has ever been performed live and will make their debut on November 19 at The Muse in Nashville. They will perform songs from all of their releases, making sure to mix crowd favorites with newer material and diamonds from the past. It will be a night that kicks off renewed interest in the band especially in Europe. "We just had a five page article come out in Popular One in Spain. We hope to get over to Europe; we have a lot of fans over there." There is still a lot of unreleased music as well as new stuff to the forefront. "Geffen spent a lot of money on the first album. We actually recorded it once with Producer Jim Dickinson (The Replacements, Big Star, Mudhoney, and Mojo Nixon) and Geffen decided we had to re-record it and the second recording became Young Man's Blues. I still have that first recording". Okay, it's time for Geffen to consider a re-release with both mixes. The current lineup of Bobby Durango, Pagan Raygun, Jorge Hernandez, Mark Binko and Adam Keller is primed and ready for a killer show. "We have a great future ahead of us, so… fuck 'em". Enough said. ~ Brad Hardisty, Nashville, TN.   xx HARD ROCK CAFE INTERNATIONAL SERVES CEASE & DESIST LETTER TO HARD ROCK NIGHTS: File under utterly rediculous. It seems the Hard Rock Cafe think they own the term Hard Rock! What next!! Read on... Brian Basher the owner of the domain hardrocknights.com and host of the Hard Rock Nights Radio show was served a cease & desist letter from Hard Rock Cafe International claiming copyright & trademark infringement. Hard Rock Cafe International has threatened a lawsuit against Basher if he does not immediately take down all content and cease operating www.hardrocknights.com and immediately transfer to Hard Rock Cafe International any and all rights to the domain name hardrocknights.com Although he makes no money or profits from www.hardrocknights.com or the Hard Rock Nights Radio show Basher has decided to fight this frivolous legal action from Hard Rock Cafe International. From Brian Basher: "Hard Rock Nights and hardrocknights.com are in no way shape or form associated with Hard Rock Cafe International. I'm a disabled veteran who makes no money whatsoever from the website or radio show and it isn't about that. Hard Rock Nights is about celebrating the genre of Hard Rock and the bands that make the greatest music in the world and sharing that music with fans old and new around the world. I find it very hard to believe a term or genre of music can be trademarked." More information, and the Cease & Desist letter is available at the following link: hardrocknights.wordpress.com/2010/11/10/hard-rock-cafe-international-claims-copyright-infringement-aga inst-hard-rock-nights/ METAL XMAS RE-ISSUED: Revised and updated for 2010 with 4 new tracks, We Wish You A Metal Xmas & A Headbanging New Year is the all hard rock and metal compilation of everyone s favorite holiday songs which features the likes of Dave Grohl (Them Crooked Vultures) Geoff Tate (Queensryche), Ronnie James Dio, Lemmy, Alice Cooper, Billy F. Gibbons (ZZ Top), George Lynch (Dokken) and more! The 2010 edition features 4 new recordings featuring Dez Fafara (DevilDriver), Doro Pesch, Steve Lips Kudlow (Anvil) & other metal greats! CD1 (original release): 1. Jeff Scott Soto, Bruce Kulick, Bob Kulick, Chris Wyse, Ray Luzier - We Wish You A Merry Christmas; 2. Lemmy Kilmister, Billy F. Gibbons, Dave Grohl - Run Rudolph Run; 3. Alice Cooper, John 5, Billy Sheehan, Vinny Appice - Santa Claws Is Coming To Town; 4. Ronnie James Dio, Tony Iommi, Rudy Sarzo, Simon Wright - God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen; 5. Geoff Tate, Carlos Cavazo, James Lomenzo, Ray Luzier - Silver Bells; 6. Dug Pinnick, George Lynch, Billy Sheehan, Simon Phillips - Little Drummer Boy; 7. Tim 'Ripper' Owens, Steve Morse, Juan Garcia, Marco Mendoza, Vinny Appice - Santa Claus Is Back In Town; 8. Chuck Billy, Scott Ian, Jon Donais, Chris Wyse, John Tempesta - Silent Night; 9. Oni Logan, Craig Goldy, Tony Franklin, John Tempesta - Deck The Halls; 10. Stephen Pearcy, Tracii Guns, Bob Kulick, Billy Shehan, Gregg Bissonette - Grandma Got Ran Over By A Reindeer; 11. Joe Lynn Turner, Bruce Kulick, Bob Kulick, Rudy Sarzo, Simon Wright - Rocking Round The Xmas Tree; 12. Tommy Shaw, Steve Lukather, Marco Mendoza, Kenny Aronoff - Happy Xmas (War Is Over). CD2 (new bonus tracks): 1. Doro Pesch, Michael Schenker, Tony Franklin, Frankie Benali - O' Christmas Tree; 2. Girlschool: Kim McAuliffe, Jackie Chambers, Enid Williams, Denise Dufort - Auld Lang Syne; 3. Steve "Lips" Kudlow, Bumblefoot, Chris Chaney, Kenny Aronoff - Frosty The Snowman; 4. Dez Fafara, Doug Aldrich, Blasko, John Tempesta - Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer. DURAN DURAN TO TOUR NEXT YEAR: From Gibson.com: "New Romantic wild boys Duran Duran are set to return to their glory days this coming year with the release of their 13th album, All You Need Is Now. The album was produced by Amy Winehouse producer and recent solo artist Mark Ronson. Keyboardist Nick Rhodes enthused to Spinner, "It's the best record we've made in over two decades." But Rhodes didn't stop there. He also announced that the band would approach the material as they had back in the days of Rio, with plenty of well-produced videos. "One thing I can say is that we will be making videos for every track on the album, which is something we certainly haven't done since the very beginning. We feel that visual material and content now is actually becoming of value again," he said, citing Lada Gaga and Kanye West as artists who have made music videos interesting again for the first time in ages. Rhodes also promised fans the chance to see the band in the flesh. "We're going to be touring next year for sure," he said. "We haven't announced anything yet, but this record is built for touring, so we're definitely excited about that." All You Need Is Now will be available on iTunes on December 21 and will be in stores in February 2011. SWISS RECORD FAIR FOR NOVEMBER: A Swiss only hardrock/AOR/Metal record and CD fair "Metalbörse" is coming up November 27. The details are as follows as provided from the organizers: "It is an event for lovers and fans of rock music only (no pop, no jazz, no commercial stuff). Our approach is to give the rock fans here in Switzerland a possibility to find rare items, merchandise or gems of their favorite rock bands." Event: Metalbörse 2010 / Location: Zofingen, Switzerland / Fair ground: Grosser Stadtsaal / Date: Saturday 27 Nov 2010 / Opening time: 9 am to 4 pm.   INTERVIEW BRIEFS: L.A. AOR gods Silent Rage are stirring again. Lead singer and songwriter Jesse Damon took a break in the studio to talk about his upcoming solo album, the Rage's plans for 2011, what we can all learn from Gene Simmons and whose chest is on the cover of their melodic rock masterpiece, Don't Touch Me There. HRH: Jesse, thanks for taking a moment and giving the Hardrock Haven audience an update on what you and SR are up to. Is there a new Silent Rage album in the works? Jesse Damon: It's my pleasure to talk to Hardrock Haven about the latest news from the Rage camp. We are performing one more date this year on Nov. 20 in Los Angeles with Gilby Clarke and Little Caesar on the same bill. We're also writing new material and stockpiling songs, but first on the agenda is to record two bonus tracks for our Don't Touch Me There CD reissue, plus have it remastered. Then we plan to continue recording for a possible fifth studio album. No word as to a tentative release date or record label involved yet. One thing I can say is that we've been talking about having Paul Sabu (Alice Cooper, David Bowie, Shania Twain, John Waite, Heart) involved with producing it. We're also planning a short trip to Europe for a festival in Italy, along with a string of dates in several countries Feb. 2011. We'll be issuing a press release soon... To read the entire interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/jesse-damon-of-silent-rage. TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest podcast (episode #109), featuring Former Harem Scarem Vocalist Harry Hess. Harry took time out of his busy schedule to discuss his latest project First Signal. Harry discusses his involvment in First Signal, as well as the possibility of a Harem Scarem reunion, somewhere down the line. Interview lasts approx. 40 min. What effect does alcohol have on an artist and their music; does is make it better or worse? We have lost several of our heroes to the juice - as well as other extra-curricular activities - so is it a good thing or a bad thing? Considering that some of the best music ever made was by artists under the influence, is it really worth it? Join Genghis and Ragman as they explore the effects of alcohol on artists and the music they make. After which, the boys bring in Harry Hess for a one on one as he discusses life after Harem Scarem as well as his latest rock release, First Signal. Jeff and Frank from Tesla stop by to chat on the next episode of VH1 Classic's That Metal Show: www.vh1.com/video/misc/596052/jeff-keith-frank-hannon-tesla-sneak.jhtml#id=1651959. Frank Hannon explaining to everyone that the Guns 'n Roses song "Patience" was a rip off of a Tesla demo called "Better Off Without You." Frank Hannon: "Let me tell you something: "Patience", we were label mates with Gun 'n Roses on Geffen, there's a demo of a song that we wrote called "Better Off Without You". It is "Patience" note for note." MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated. Online today are the following new features: Breakout - Promo EP (5 Tracks, Denmark) Chase (11 Track, Indie , 1992) Circus - Demos (UK 90, 4 Tracks) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, November 11, 2010

FANS SET TO WELCOME PULL, THE FINAL ALBUM FROM MR. MISTER: "Pull needed to be released, and it deserves to be heard because it's a really special record. There are a lot of Mr. Mister fans out there, and they deserve it, hardcore fans who loved our band." (Richard Page, founding member of Mr. Mister) After a 20-year wait, legions of loyal Mr. Mister fans around the world are buzzing over news of the official release of Pull, the band's previously unreleased fourth and final album from 1990. Subject of rumor and speculation for two decades (and shoddy, often partial bootlegs that have never done justice to the album's pristinely crafted sound), Pull will finally be available at online retail in digital form starting November 23, 2010 through RCA/Legacy, a division of Sony Music Entertainment. Physical CD packages of Pull will be available exclusively at MrMisterofficial.com and littledumerecordings.com.   At the same time, two of Mr. Mister's classic albums, originally released on RCA, will also be available at online retail in digital form starting November 23 through RCA/Legacy. Out-of-print in this country for at least 15 years, the two albums are: I Wear The Face (1984), the first Mr. Mister album, with their first Hot 100 chart single, "Hunters of the Night"; and Go On... (1987), the third album, with the Top 30 hit "Something Real (Inside Me/Inside You)" and the Grammy nominated track, "Healing Waters." I Wear The Face and Go On... now rejoin Mr. Mister's legendary second album, Welcome To the Real World, with the career-defining consecutive #1 singles, "Broken Wings" and "Kyrie." A consistent RIAA platinum catalog best-seller, Welcome To the Real World also enjoyed high chart success after its 1985 release in Austria, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK, and elsewhere. As every fan of Mr. Mister knows, they evolved from the late-'70s Los Angeles-based group known as Pages, who released two albums on Epic Records. At the end of Pages' run, three of the members – bassist Richard Page, keyboardist Steve George, and principal lyricist John Lang – joined with guitarist Steve Farris and drummer Pat Mastelotto to form Mr. Mister. The two Pages albums, which were once issued on CD in Japan, will now join the two Mr. Mister albums as part of this reissue campaign. The self titled Pages debut album of 1978, and Future Street of 1979, will be available at online retail in digital form November 23 through Epic/Legacy. After a near decade and a half hiatus from the spotlight, Richard Page released a new solo album in 2010, Peculiar Life, and recently concluded the "11th All-Star Band Tour," a two-month, 32-concert tour with Beatles drummer Ringo Starr. Page joined a band that included Edgar Winter and Gary ("Dream Weaver") Wright on keyboards, Rick Derringer and Wally Palmar (from the Romantics) on guitars, and Gregg Bisonette on [second] drums. Ringo graciously cameoed Page on "Broken Wings" and "Kyrie" as a nightly feature of the tour. (The tour encompassed Ringo's 70th birthday at Radio City in New York, including a surprise appearance by fellow Beatle Sir Paul McCartney, who sang "Birthday" from the White album. A gala party afterwards at the Rainbow Room was attended by Keith Richards and many other friends. Including Richard Page.) In the March 1, 1986 issue of Billboard, RCA Victor recording group Mr. Mister joined an elite handful of contemporary artists who have charted – in the same week – a #1 album (their second LP, Welcome To the Real World) and its #1 single ("Kyrie," follow-up to their #1 '80s rock anthem, "Broken Wings"). It was RCA's first chart-topping album in a decade, since Jefferson Starship and John Denver back in 1975; and the company's first consecutive #1 singles by an artist since Elvis Presley back in 1959-60-61. At the dawn of the MTV era, Mr. Mister was on top of the world – and gold and platinum around the world. But in 1987, a so-called 'regime change' in senior management at RCA changed the picture, and Mr. Mister suffered. After Welcome To the Real World went to #1 and RIAA platinum, Go On… only rose to #55. Richard accepts part of the responsibility, "I may have made the mistake of thinking, 'Look, we've got everybody's attention now, we can do whatever we want.' But when I was growing up listening to music, the bands that I liked were always breaking new ground with every new record, and I thought that's what you were supposed to do." They eventually began to work on their next album, as the songwriting team of Page, Steve George and John Lang "Pulled" together. "It was just a matter of making the best music we possibly could," says Page, "and satisfying ourselves first, figuring if we liked it, other people would like it, that was always our criteria for making records." Lang was the main lyricist. "John had the real unusual take on life, a real poetic sense," Page says. "He'd usually come in with the idea and I'd refine the lyrics. "George is a super accomplished musician, he's the kind of guy who can sit down and play piano like Bill Evans, or play a pop song – or classical. He's just one of those guys who has a broad, deep musical palette. The disparate musical distance between Steve and I is what made that interesting contrast of the simple melody with the complex harmonic structure and rhythmic thing. He loved jazz, we all loved Weather Report" (whose 1978 album, Mr. Gone, on Columbia Records, supposedly inspired Mr. Mister's name). Also, in the wake of the departure of Steve Farris after Go On…, Mr. Mister was able to work with a variety of guitarists, among them musician's musician Buzz Feiten, Trevor Rabin of Yes, and James Harrah, as well as Cuban percussionist Luis Conte. The other element was a reunion with producer Paul DeVilliers, who produced Welcome to the Real World, and engineer Kevin Killen who worked on Go On… "Paul is sonically very experimental and very pioneering," says Page. "He just liked to try new and odd things, and he had great arrangement ideas, so he definitely had a lot to do with construction and arrangements of the songs and their sonic quality. Kevin mixed most of the album, he really understands space and e.q. and how to create a panorama." The whole concoction described the essential chemistry of Mr. Mister. "That's really how we worked off each other and how we complemented each other." Their spirit, however, may have been too adventurous. In 1990, with new A&R and a new president, RCA rejected the "sneak previews" of tracks they heard from the new album by Mr. Mister. Despite the high level of craftsmanship in "Close Your Eyes," "Waiting in My Dreams," "We Belong To No One," and "No Words To Say" (Page's autobiographic paean to growing up in the segregated Jim Crow deep South of Montgomery, Alabama in the 1950s) – Pull was ultimately shelved. Mr. Mister disbanded that year, and the members went their separate ways. Page began recording as a solo artist and then collaborated in 3rd Matinee with Madonna's producer Patrick Leonard. Page and Leonard wrote Madonna's #2 hit of 1994, "I'll Remember," but after Page released his solo album Shelter Me in 1996 (on Blue Thumb Records) he put his public career on hold. Steve George toured as Kenny Loggins' music director from 1990-96, and later worked with Jewel before leaving the industry and settling in Sedona, Arizona. One of the busiest drummers on the planet, Pat Mastelotto has been a member of King Crimson since 1994 (some 20 studio and live albums' worth), and works with bassist Tony Levin on many KC side projects. As for any long hoped-for Mr. Mister get-together happening, Page has the final word: "There's always a chance for a reunion, never say never."   Comments On Mr. Mister's Pull Richard Page: "Albums are much like your children. You do everything you can to nurture them and hope they grow up to be happy and successful. Pull is like an orphaned child who had the potential of being a stand out, but was denied the opportunity. Finally, after 20 plus years, it will get its chance to shine. This album, I believe, best represents what our band was all about; stretching the boundaries of pop music, not conforming to the conventional wisdom that you have to write within accepted perimeters, allowing ourselves the freedom to express the musicianship and writing skills we encouraged in each other. Like many other successful bands, Mr. Mister will always be remembered and defined by our hits and understandably so. But there is so much more to what we did in our short time together, and I think Pull is proof of that. I have to acknowledge Paul DeVilliers, who co-produced this album with us (Paul also co-produced Welcome to the Real World). Paul was an uncompromising force in the studio, who left no stone unturned. He was responsible for so many of the unique arrangements and the sonic quality of Pull. Truly an under-appreciated talent. Also, Kevin Killen, who not only mixed most of the tracks, but even volunteered his own time and money to see it finished. We love you Kevin. Lastly, I'd like to mention all the fans, who over the years have never given up their passion and desire to have this album properly released. And, selfishly, I'm glad I will never hear again, "Man, when is Pull going to be released!" Steve George: "It's hard to believe that it's been twenty years since we recorded this album. It has such a timeless quality about it that it sounds like it could have been recorded yesterday. That's due, in no small part, to the superb engineering and co-production by Paul DeVilliers and masterful mixing by Kevin Killen. Thank you, gentlemen. In addition to the great sound of the album, I also believe that this represents some of Mr. Mister's best work in all respects – songwriting, arranging, singing and musicianship - and it's a privilege to have been a part of it. An enormous amount of effort by all involved went into making this record and I'm thrilled that it's finally going to be heard. Rich, Pat, John, George – I love you guys. To our fans everywhere – Thank you!" Pat Mastelotto: "It was 20 years ago today, that Sgt. Pepper. . . --no wait-- that was another melodic pop band with a paronomastic name that went all artsy. And that was 20 years before the 20 years I'm talking about. I'm talking 1990 and Pull the last recordings of Mr. Mister, the group that had brought RCA its first back to back number one hits since Elvis, but had since moved into uncharted territory and got dropped from their label for being too Artsy (wtf? - music that has too much art??) What we have here, in Pull, is a time capsule, the cache left on a shelf. . . until now." The gang's all back (besides the departure of Steve Farris) -- this record sees the trio, of Rich, Steve and Pat, reunited with John Lang (co-writer of "Broken Wings"), engineer Paul DeVilliers (who co produced the #1's like "Broken Wings" & "Kyrie"), sonic wonder boy Kevin Killen (Peter Gabriel, U2) to oversee mixing. Listen closely, and you might even recognize additional guitar from Trevor Rabin of Yes. Truly a time capsule recorded and mixed in (then state of the art) Analog and (early) Digital at the very best of the classic L.A. studios, Ocean Way, Sunset Sound, Sound Castle, Sound Factory, and Mastered by legendary Bob Ludwig. When we set out to make our Pull, we wanted a different sound so gone are the sequencers and drum machines used on the massive hits. A more intermittent style of 'big' production took hold. After first entering the studio with 10 new songs the band retreated to smaller studios to write and nurture arrangements of another dozen songs till we felt we had the right balance of material. Since the demise of the Misters and being the drummer in King Crimson, XTC and many other bands favored by the discerning highbrow critics I am often asked how it was, or even why, I was in Mr. Mister. . . why? I'll tell you why -- because these guys were good! Still to this day I've never worked with singers the quality of Rich and Steve, and by this 4th record our sense of band self was codifying as we stretched arrangements using metric modulations and beat displacements, words I'd never even heard at the time, that would become such a large part of today's progressive music. Personally I think Pull is the missing link to explain how I got from pop music to the avant-garde art music. . . but the fact is I never saw them as anything but two sides of the same coin, and I think many of the Mister's fans always understood and embraced that." So after 20 years of fans asking when can we hear Pull? I can answer 'now'. WebLinks: legacyrecordings.com / MrMisterofficial.com / Littledumerecordings.com. PRESS RELEASE – TARA'S SECRET: UK rock band Tara's Secret have added Spanish and German language pages to their website www.taras-secret.com, as hits from Spain, Argentina & Germany went through the roof in October, following the release of the band's first video Rock & Roll Beauty Queen www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkVpCeL1JzU. Interest is still increasing for this independent band and its 3rd album Vertigo which first hit the rock news pages in February 2010. Guitarist Craig Chapman says "we had label offers for Vertigo, but having put so much into this album, we chose to promote it ourselves through our own Black Cat Music. So, unlike a label release with all its upfront promotion, we have slowly grown our contacts list and 9 months later the momentum is still growing. Our first reviews in USA and Argentina are only just reaching rock music fans in those countries and the reaction is really exciting." The band is also climbing the "Sign Me To Roadrunner Records" charts and hope more fans will take the time to visit signmeto.roadrunnerrecords.com/artists/taras-secret to vote and leave their comments. The band will be playing live at a Derby Rockhouse Reunion on Nov 26 in Derby and supporting Vega at Yardbirds Club, Grimsby on Dec 9. Festival appearances are already confirmed for 2011. Plenty of new songs are coming through ready for a 4th album and this time the band are keen to talk to labels before heading for the studio! OUTLOUD RETURNS: After last years successful debut release in 2009 and a busy year of writing, recording and performing just a few gigs, Outloud - Chandler Mogel, Bob Katsionis, Mark Cross, Tony Kash and Sverd T. return with only one show in Greece for their fans on Friday, November 19th to the Revenge Of Rock in Athens, Greece! Recently the "Revenge of Rock" expanded its stage, added new lights and sound to it's production and will ensure much greater live quality in the future! Outloud will perform a full set of their first album's material, as well as a few songs from the upcoming album which has recently been mixed, but not released yet! Don't miss that unique show, meet the band and rock away the night! The ones who will be there, have the chance to be the first to catch the pre listening of the new album! Soon the band will announce details about the upcoming album, which is scheduled for 2011! Revenge Of Rock / Alexandras Av.34 Athens, GR / Doors: 10pm / Entrance: 10,00 EURO incl. 1 beer! WebLinks: wwww.outloud-rock.com / www.myspace.com/outloudtheband / www.facebook.com/outloudtheband. OZ ROCKERS PICKED FOR ZEPP FEST 2011: Australian Led Zeppelin cover band The Led Zeppelin Show has just been booked to perform at Zepp Fest 2011, to be held in Washington DC, USA May 2011. This festival is labelled it the world's largest Zeppelin festival, with 5 stages, 50+ bands including some US Zep tributes and TLZS, who will represent Australia. Links for bookings and more info at: www.zepfest2011.com / Facebook.com/ZePFest2011 / www.zeppelinlive.com.au. GRAHAM PARKER & THE FIGGS: LIVE AT THE FTC TO BE RELEASED DECEMBER 7 ON PRIMARY WAVE RECORDS: (New York, NY) – British rock legend Graham Parker will release his first ever live performance DVD titled Graham Parker & The Figgs: Live at The FTC on December 7 on Primary Wave Records. With backup from cult favorites The Figgs, Parker uses this occasion to celebrate his 20th album, Imaginary Television, released earlier this year on Bloodshot Records, as well as 21 classic cuts such as "Life Gets Better", "Mercury Poisoning" and "My Love's Strong". The performance was filmed in 5.1 on April 23, 2010 at Fairfield, Connecticut's FTC Stageone. The DVD also features a career-spanning interview with Graham Parker, as well as a companion CD featuring the concert in full. Parker says, "Typically, when the film crew turns up for the one gig on the tour they are scheduled to film, something goes wrong and the band don't get a proper sound check. The singer (me) is sick with the tour bug and has lost half his voice. A blizzard occurs and half the audience don't show. Whatever: it's often less than ideal. Not the case with this little, beauty, thankfully! The band rocked like Safari Park Chimps, the film crew were non-intrusive, I was in full, strong voice, and the weather did not conspire to keep the punters at home. What a strange confluence of fortuitous events! This one's a keeper." Executive Producer Seth Faber says, "After months of cajoling, Graham agreed to let us set up our cameras and capture his show at the FTC, so long as our approach was laissez-faire. That noninvasive direction proved wise; we skillfully captured Graham in his natural habitat, as honest, acerbic, and electrifying as ever." WebLink: www.grahamparker.net.

 

 

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

JOURNEY/STYX/FOREIGNER IN UK TOUR: It is now official - Journey will be joined by Styx and Foreigner on a UK tour next (northern) summer. Dates announced are: London Wembley Arena - June 4th Birmingham NIA - June 5th Newcastle Metro Radio Arena - June 7th Manchester Evening News Arena - June 8th Glasgow SECC - June 9th On Journey's return to Britain, guiatist Neal Schon said: "We're so excited to be coming back to the UK to play arenas with our friends Foreigner and Styx. Be prepared to hear a lot of hit songs." Foreigner guitarist Mick Jones adds: "This will be one of the main events of the summer. Bands who represent the magic era in classic rock together for the first time in my home country. Get ready to rock!" Styx guitarist James 'JY' Young enthuses: "Styx has always enjoyed sharing the stage with Journey, going back to the Santa Monica Civic Center in 1976. The tour we did with them in 2003 across the United States was an amazing success of sold-out arenas. Journey, Foreigner and Styx seems like a can't-miss 'guitars a-blazin', vocals amazin' kind of a classic rock evening." The tour will be sponsored by the brand new magazine Classic Rock Presents AOR. Editor Geoff Barton had the following to say: "With melodic rock on the resurgence, this tour is going to be one of the must-sees of 2011. We're happy to set the ball rolling by featuring Journey on the cover of our brand new magazine, Classic Rock Presents AOR, which goes on sale on November 17. And, of course, with Journey's classic song Don't Stop Believin' enjoying a brand new lease of life, it was only right that the track, making it back into the Top 10 nearly 30 years after its release, would be in the running to receive 'Event Of The Year' at our prestigious Classic Rock Roll Of Honour Awards." Tickets go on sale 9am on Friday November 12 priced at £42.50 adv London / £40.00 regionally (subject to booking fee) and are available from www.livenation.co.uk.   FIREWORKS #42 OUT NOW - PRINT AND DIGITAL EDITIONS: Now we've got Firefest 2010 out of the way, time to let you all know Fireworks #42 is out NOW. 100 full-colour pages over-flowing with melodic rock goodness, this latest issue sees interviews with Vince Neil, LA Guns, Rob Halford, Zakk Wylde, Joe Satriani, Magnum, Terry Brock, Marci Free, Skin, Ronnie Wood, Spock's Beard, Dweezil Zappa, Edenbridge, Kamelot, White Widdow, Liv Kristine, James LaBrie, Marseille, Issa, Bangalore Choir, Tarja and MANY more. Also packed to the brim with more CD/DVD and live reviews than you could shake a pink fluffy stick at!! On top of all this, there is also a free 18 track CD featuring the likes of Bangalore Choir, Nelson, Skin, Phenomena, White Widdow, Kissin' Dynamite and lots more.   The magazine can be ordered at www.rocktopia.net, in the online Shop, or bought in UK in WH Smith (see online store detector in Rocktopia for which WH Smith stores stock the magazine). Or for UK orders, can send a cheque for £6 (Payabel to 'Bruce Mee') to Fireworks Magazine, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5XD. Download version available exclusively in the FW Showcase (and PayPal link below) - right now! Back issues still available also.   Also AhORa Rock Podcast #4 Available For Download & Stream - Issue #4 of AhORa Rock's excellent melodic rock programme, hosted by the wonderful Ms Pilar Sanchez, is now online for download or streaming. This latest issue features the latest releases from Nelson, Poodles, Gotthard, Kissin' Dynamite, White Widdow, Houston, Phenomena, Survivor, an exclusive Robin Beck track and many more! Check it out at www.rocktopia.net. Firefest Friday – Request For Help - One of our good friends dropped her phone in the Trent University on Friday night. It was found some time later in pieces, minus the Memory Card. It pains me that someone from our close-knit family scene would do this rather than hand the phone in. The SIM is useless, but contains irreplaceable family photos. If whoever took the Memory Card would be kind enough to return it to Fireworks Magazine at the address above, no questions asked, we would all be very grateful. Many thanks ~ Bruce. BCC LIVE IN BLACK COUNTRY: Black Country Communion, the critically acclaimed rock supergroup featuring vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Trapeze, Black Sabbath), award-winning blues-rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa, drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin, Foreigner) and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Billy Idol), today confirmed that they will perform two long-awaited UK concerts in December. Fittingly, the first concert will take place right in the heart of the Black Country at the legendary Wolverhampton Civic Hall on Wednesday 29th December, followed by a concert at London's o2 Shepherd's Bush Empire on Thursday 30th December. Planet Rock Radio will launch an exclusive 4-day ticket pre-sale from Monday 15th November, for full details visit www.planetrock.com/bcc. Tickets will then go on sale to the general public from 9.00am on Friday 19th November, via the National 24 Hour Box Office - 0871 230 1101, www.seetickets.com, www.eventim.co.uk. To read the online press release - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/mascot/BCCTour.htm. TRIXTER RECORDING NEW STUDIO ALBUM: Steve Brown dropped me a short e-mail this morning - it reads: "Just wanted to let you know, the mighty Trixter has started work on a new CD...most of the songs are written and we've started tracking drums. Some song titles Drag Me Down, The Coolest Thing, Tattoos And Misery....it's sounding killer...the band is pumped." QUEEN PLANNING BIG 40th ANNIVERSARY YEAR: Via Billboard/Reuters/Gibson and more: "After almost 40 years with EMI, rock legends Queen have signed a deal with Universal Music Group, according to Reuters. Re-releases of the band's studio albums have been announced for 2011, which also marks Queen's 40th anniversary. "We are very excited, after all this time, to be embarking on a new phase of our career – with a new record company, with new ideas and new dreams," Queen guitarist Brian May said in a statement. The switch from EMI to Universal has been rumored since May but was only recently confirmed. This marks another high-profile loss for EMI, who have parted ways with The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney and Radiohead in recent years. Starting in 2011, Queen albums will appear on Universal subsidiary Island Records. Reportedly, the label will release each of the band's 15 studio albums with bonus content and remastered sound. In March, the first five re-releases – Queen, Queen II, Sheer Heart Attack, A Night at the Opera and A Day at the Races – will hit stores and online retailers." MR. VOCALIST STRIKES AGAIN: Eric Martin's latest solo release Mr. Vocalist 3 is out now. The third Japanese exclusive release features Martin singing Japanese female artists' hit songs. Includes a duet song "Sekaiju no Dare Yori Kitto" with Debbie Gibson. Gibson meanwhile is the new Mrs. Vocalist and has released her first album in what will no doubt be an ongoing series. The duet with Eric Martin appears on her album also.

 

 

Tuesday, November 09, 2010

TRACK BY TRACK WITH ALL I KNOW: MelodicRockRecords signing All I Know have provided Track By Track comments about their debut album Vanity Kills. Frontman Ward Dufraimont is doing the talking. The album is available now from all good melodic rock outlets and direct from MelodicRock Records Store. Buying this album supports great new talent and purchasing direct from MRR in turn helps both the artist and the new label. Thanks in advance for that support! Purchase here. Click on song titles for audio samples. Vanity Kills - Track By Track: All Night Long: Album opener, also long-time live show opener. Last song we wrote before we started recording the album. At the time, and still, one of our personal favourites. First song, along with 'Rain', we released to MySpace before the album release. Bad Boy: Written by our Guitar player Michaël. Fun little party number. Has a kind of Poison-esque vibe to it, not in the least lyrically. Note the live handclaps in the middle eight, courtesy of Michaël and Fiona Brown, producer Staf Verbeeck's girlfriend. Asphyxia: The BIG ballad. Possibly the oldest song on the album. Written on acoustics in about half an hour. In my opinion the best song on the album, musically as well as lyrically. The piano and keyboards came out just right, arranged by one of Belgium's top session men, David Poltrock. Rain: The lead single. This is the song that led legendary producer Beau Hill [Europe, Alice Cooper] to contact us about remixing some of our key tracks. This is the first thing he worked on back in his home studio in Austin, Texas. Rock royalty ladies and gentlemen. What an honour. Most cryptic AIK lyric to date. Turn Back Time: First of 2 new songs, recorded in June 2010 in the legendary Jet Studio in Brussels, Belgium. This was not on the 2008 self-released version of 'Vanity Kills'. Actually written for the follow-up album, hopefully to be released somewhere in 2011. The album originally had 2 other, older songs, which have been replaced by 'Turn Back Time' and 'All The Way'. Later used as exclusive free downloads with all pre-orders of the album. This is one of the heaviest tracks in our set. I Need You: Another rocker in the Bryan Adams tradition, specifically the 'Waking Up The Neighbours' era, which we are big fans of. Going for that Mutt Lange magic. The opening riff might ring a bell. It's called an homage, people! Into Your Heart: Another Michaël song. I love the hook on this one. Always interesting to see what the other half in our song-writing partnership comes up with. Great live song. I Wanna Rock You: One of the older songs on the album, and I think it shows. Debuted live at the end of 2006, go figure. Short, poppy little diddie about, yes, a girl. Sweet 17: One of several fun songs, lyrically. Based on a true story ! Hard song to pull off live. Note the keyboard lines, played by Michaël. Strong Europe influence here musically. Teenage Queen: Similar to the previous track subject-wise. Features Dave Martijn on lead guitar, courtesy of Belgium's biggest dance act Goose. Dave mostly plays keys now, but lets it rip here one more time, and how! All The Way: Second new track. First song written for the follow-up to 'Vanity Kills'. Label chief Andrew wanted some exclusive tracks for the re-release, and we immediately thought of this one. Up-tempo rocker, and also our new live set opener. Gotta give props to Michaël for the lead guitar work here! Hope And Dreams: Album closing acoustic ballad, written and sung by Michaël. Floored me first time I heard it. Initially 'Rain' was the album closer, until we heard the final mixes and realised we wanted it to be the first thing people hear from the album. 'Hope And Dreams' was a nice way to close out the album in a mellow way instead. Weblinks: www.alliknow.be / www.myspace.com/alliknow / www.melodicrockrecords.com   FRONTIERS RECORDS GAINS NEW GROUNDS IN THE USA: Frontiers Records is excited to announce that Derek Shulman and 2Plus Music Entertainment has agreed to oversee the label development and marketing over the North American market. After an internationally acknowledged career as singer for the Progressive Music band Gentle Giant, Derek Shulman became involved in the recording business in the early 80's. Starting as an A&R representative at PolyGram Records, where he rose to the ranks of Senior Vice President, he signed Bon Jovi, Dan Reed Network, Cinderella, and Kingdom Come, among many others. In 1988 he became President and C.E.O of Atco Records (where he signed the progressive metal band Dream Theater, as well as Pantera). He also re-established the careers of AC/DC and Bad Company, both of whom sold multi-platinum albums under his watch. He then went on to become President of Roadrunner Records overseeing signings like Slipknot and Nickelback. 2PLUS directors, internationally renowned music impresario Leonardo Pavkovic and CFO Lawrence Offsey join him in this endeavour. 2PLUS will coordinate artist acquisition and marketing for Frontiers in North America and will represent the label in the relationship with the local distributors and promoters.   Pictured L to R: Larry Offsey, Derek Shulman, Serafino Perugino, Leonardo Pavkovic, Mario de Riso Frontiers Records label President Serafino Perugino stated, "Working with "the professor" Derek Shulman has been nothing but a joy so far. His experience and wisdom are going to guide Frontiers Records growth to the next level and we are absolutely excited to share with him and 2PLUS a vision for the future growth of Frontiers in the North American market". Derek Shulman stated "I am extremely excited about being involved with Serafino and Frontiers Records. It is very gratifying to work with people who are music fans and yet understand the dynamics of the ever-changing music business model. Frontiers Records is committed to making the leap to become the premiere independent rock music company worldwide. I am very happy to lend my experience to my friends at Frontiers to realize this goal". WebLinks: www.frontiers.it / www.2plus.us. The latest Frontiers Records YouTube promo spot is now online:   TNT STORM BACK WITH A FAREWELL TO ARMS: TNT is back with their latest studio album A Farewell To Arms is in the can and ready for release in Japan December 15. And before anyone makes preconceived judgments - there's something a little different about this album. It rocks! Yes, TNT turn to a much harder rocking sound with an album of energetic, guitar-shred filled tunes. They don't completely abandon the eccentricity that can be TNT, but they are much closer to the band's trademark sound and they are heavy! It's the third album to feature vocalist Tony Mills. A European release will be announced shortly and my further comments on the album itself will follow. Track Listing: 1. Engine 2. Refugee 3. Ship In The Night 4. Take It Like A Man - Woman! 5. Come 6. Barracuda 7. A Signature On A Demon's Self-portrait 8. Don't Misunderstand Me 9. A Farewell To Arms 10. Someone Else 11. God Natt, Marie 12. Not Only Lonely (Bonus track for Japan).   JON CAIN TALKS JOURNEY AND LOOKS BACK AT HIS STUDIO: Journey keyboardist Jonathan Cain updated his website with a lengthy blog this week. Highlights from the comments are as follows: "Before handing the house over to the new owners, I felt I had unfinished business. A vineyard on our hillside where pinot noir needed harvesting and Neal Schon wanted to come over to my studio to finish up some guitar parts for the new upcoming Journey album. I also downloaded my analog tapes onto digital formats that required baking tapes for sometimes as long as eight hours. It was strange being in the studio alone without Doc--my beloved tech who died last year of liver cancer. Doc Shaffer worked tirelessly for seventeen years not only for me but for Journey on countless projects. Before I went on the road we shared a bittersweet visit. I spent an afternoon with him at the hospital two days before he passed. The Nashville move was tedious and it took several Mayflower truckloads to transport the layers of belongings and keepsakes we had accumulated over the years as a family to Tennessee. The part I procrastinated on and dreaded the most-- tearing the 1500 square foot recording studio apart I built back in 1991. It took weeks to sort through --but with the help of some friends and Brent Jeffers, my keyboard tech, I was successful in vacating Wildhorse Studio--a space that helped me create over nine CD's and countless Journey projects—including writing material for the new album to be released next year, which Neal and I started-- back in late January this year. Fittingly, Neal Schon came over to my studio in October to play some guitar on the new Journey album (due out next April) before I had the place taken apart. Pictured is the two of us on the last day of the recording session. As we hugged that afternoon, I got caught up in emotion recalling the memorable musical events that had taken place there. Not only did we crank out Neal's Beyond the Thunder, and Soul Sirkus there—I recorded and mixed 8 solo albums—spanning genres from pop to jazz to new age. Elvin Bishop, Greg Allman, and yes-- even Steve Perry-- all sang there. This was the space that Neal and I put Journey back together in 1997. A clubhouse that we could create in Wildhorse proved to be a needed tool for us to continue to hone our sound. In June, with Kevin Shirley at the helm as producer, the recording for the new Journey album began at Fantasy Studios over in Berkeley, where we did Escape and Frontiers. We laid down the basic tracks that Neal and I had created during the early part of 2010. It was inspiring being back in the studio we had so much success in the 80's. Not much had changed except that the old console had been replaced by a newer SSL. The tracking went quickly as Neal and I brought in several new songs we demoed on the weekends at Wildhorse to add to the mix. The staff was friendly and helpful during the time we were there and I even got to see some Giants games right over the Bay Bridge at AT+T Park. A concept album--the new release is a departure from what we have done in the past. It has a hard-hitting rock edge with soul-searching lyrics. Arnel soars along with some of Neal's best playing -- the band is solid as ever. I look forward to next spring when we will release it—probably at Walmart. From Cain's latest update: www.jonathancain.com. THIS WEEK - TED POLEY AUSTRALIAN TOUR: For the first time in Australia, Vagabond Entertainment presents Ted Poley. As the voice of Danger Danger and over a musical career spanning three decades, Ted Poley is regarded as one of the premier hard rock performers in the world. Corner Hotel, Melbourne - Wednesday 10 November Bald Faced Stag, Sydney on Saturday 13 November With Danger Danger, Poley enjoyed much worldwide success with the albums 'Danger Danger' and 'Screw It!' selling millions of copies worldwide. Video clips for the singles 'Naughty Naughty', 'Bang Bang' and 'Monkey Business' enjoyed high rotation on MTV worldwide and tours with the likes of KISS, Alice Cooper, Warrant and Extreme solidified Danger Danger's place in the world of rock. After leaving Danger Danger in the mid 90's, Ted released albums under the guises of Bonemachine and Melodica, with both projects firmly establishing Poley's standing within the worldwide melodic rock community. After an eleven year absence, 2004 saw the return of Poley to the ranks of Danger Danger. The re-united band's first show was in front of 25,000 people at the prestigious Sweden Rock Festival, their performance hailed as one of the highlights. In 2006 Poley released his very successful debut solo CD 'Collateral Damage', following that up with the equally successful 'Smile' in 2008 on Frontiers Records, an album full of immediately recognisable hooklines and total 80's attitude that saw Poley at the top of his game. In 2009 Danger Danger released their highly anticipated new album 'Revolve' which coincided with the 20th anniversary of their classic debut. Speaking of Poley's performance on the album, Danger Danger bass player Bruno Ravel says "anytime you hear Ted sing, you immediately think "hey, that's Danger Danger. I think it's the best he has ever sounded…on any record!" With a setlist aimed to please, now it is your chance to hear live in Australia, Ted Poley, the voice of Danger Danger. He will be joined by Australian melodic rock sensations White Widdow for both shows. White Widdow recently released their debut self titled album through European label AOR Heaven which has been received rave reviews by such publications as Classic Rock, Fireworks and Powerplay. Ted Poley and White Widdow will be joined by the female-fronted hard rock of Spitfire Rain in Melbourne and a reunited Mr. Scary in Sydney. Ticketing information available at www.vagabond-entertainment.com. TOMMY DENANDER SUMS IT ALL UP: A just delivered update from Swedish guitarist and producer Tommy Denander reads as follows...(cut and paste from Tommy's e-mail to me): "To say that life is an adventure is an understatement!!! For the most part i've never been more happy and satisfied with life than right now, the amount of great work i do is amazing so i feel i have very little to complain about. So to clear up the only sad part; I'd been looking forward so much to Firefest for 6 months, counting the days until i could experience another weekend at the best festival i know. And this time i was playing with the amazing Jimi Jamison and a killer band i put together so all was set up to be perfect…and it was until i was falsely accused of a VERY horrible crime!!! For legal reasons i can't go into all the details so i'll keep it short for now…a truly disturbed person wanted to get attention from Jimi Jamison and made up a big scary lie to the police which got me arrested and thrown in jail!!!!…..the worst 24 hours i've had ever. It's all 100% untrue and i'm being cleared from everything but still….how one sick person can lie and ruin someone innocent this easy scares me! This made me miss my flight home, cost me 400€ to get new tickets home and i was scared i would have to cancel the Swedish tour with Jimi but luckily i got back in time. And the worst part…this all happened cause i felt sorry for this girl who seemed alone and sad that nobody cared, being nice as i always try to bit me hard in the ass to say the least!!! So on a happier note; I've had to keep this a secret for a little while but i got to play guitars on the coming Alice Cooper album and i got to work with the legendary Bob Ezrin, i also play guitars on 3-4 songs on the coming Ricky Martin album that Desmond Child produced, i also play on the number 1 hit "All i need is you" that Andreas Carlsson and Enrique Iglesias wrote for the Swedish Idol Allstars..…and i've done guitars on one song for the K….ops...he is so big i can't tell you yet!! And the new Radioactive album is almost done and features a stunning cast of singers, Robin Beck's new album is out soon and i think we've done her best one to date, Chris Ousey's album is almost finished and i produced it together with Mike Slamer who also mixed it, i'm right now working on new albums for House Of Lords, Fiona, Ozone (Steve Overland & Chris Ousey), LA Project, Joseph WIlliams - Peter Friestedt, Viktor Fritz-Crone etc... And to top it all off…my signature VGS "Tommy Denander" guitar is a major success around the world, it's featured on the cover of 9 guitar magazines soon including the recent issue of the biggest magazine in Europe "Gitarre & Bass" The new model features the two greatest inventions in the history of the string instrument, the Evertune bridge that makes it completely impossible to make the guitar go out of tune and True Temperament which makes the guitar 100% perfect in the intonation. In January a 12 month marketing explosion around the world will begin for i'm excited! So i'm gonna let the good and positive in life cure the shock i'm still carrying from what happened in Nottingham. My friends and fans are the best and i can't thank you all enough for the support…to Bruce, Kieran, Tony, Sue and all the rest at Firefest…you are the best!!!! Best, Tommy Denander."   CATCH SEVENTH WONDER LIVE THIS WEEK: In the run up to the release of the eagerly anticipated fourth album The Great Escape (December 3rd), Swedish progressive metallers Seventh Wonder have lined up a mini tour of Finland. Fellow Lion Music label mates Status Minor support the band in Jyväskylä making this a fantastic Friday night for the prog metal fanatic. 11 Nov 2010 Klubi Turku Turku, Finland. 12 Nov 2010 Pub Katse Jyväskylä, Finland (Support From Status Minor). 13 Nov 2010 Dante's Highlight, Helsinki, Finland. In addition the band has also announced details of a release party for The Great Escape on: 4 Dec 2010 Naespalatset Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden. Full information on the The Great Escape can be found at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/greatescape.htm. Guitar virtuoso Michael Harris' latest release Tranz-Fused has been picking up rave reviews from press. Check out a video taster of the album at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JgdNV5m7Qg and read a selection of press quotes below. Tranz-Fused finds guitarist Michael Harris going places only the most fearless guitarist would: the realm of fusion and experimental guitar. This is masterful, creative, and often totally over-the-top wild stuff. Call it genius or merely an exercise in boundless creativity for Harris, and pure intrigue for the listener. 5/5 at www.dangerdog.com/2010-music-reviews/michael-harris-tranz-fused-review.php Jazz, Metal, Blues, Funk......any way you slice it, "Tranz-Fused" is the real deal. 95/100 at www.powerofmetal.dk/reviews10/michael_harris_review.htm Tranz-Fused album is an absolutely brilliant instrumental fusion. 18/20 at www.auxportesdumetal.com/reviews/MichaelHarris/michaelharris-tranz-fused... Another fine album from a guitarist who must rank one of the worlds most overlooked by the general public – take a chance and check it out. 88% at www.virtuosityone.com The range of moods and sounds can be described as a giant wall of funkiness, weird, beautifully composed and played from top to bottom in a state that seriously showcases Michael's amazing guitar skills. You think this is deserving of some attention? Yea I think so. Go check it out!!! 8/10 at myglobalmind.com/2010/10/17/michael-harris-%E2%80%93-tranz-fused/ Find out more about Tranz-Fused at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/tranzfused.htm Milan Polak has just made available a promotional video for the track All I Want, which has been hailed by many as one of the best songs on the Straight album. View here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpwejkZNaJA UNRELEASED TOMMY BOLIN DEMOS EARN ALL-STAR TRIBUTE: Between his time with Zephyr, the James Gang, Moxy and Deep Purple (to name but a few bands), alongside a series of lauded solo recordings, Tommy Bolin is one of the world's most recognizable guitarists who's had an indelible impact on the generations that followed. The six-string slinger from Sioux City, Iowa literally set the world on fire with his unmistakable riffs, technical precision, attention to detail and larger than life personality, which continues to be chronicled throughout a series of compilations and live recordings from the archives. But what sets this particular project apart is its ability to cull together some of the guitar god's unfinished works, which earn the royal treatment thanks to a series of friends, professional colleagues and proverbial protégés. All the while, the tunes are interpreted through classic, modern, alternative and blues rock lenses under the initial vision and ongoing direction of executive producer Bill Schenk and creative consultant John Schenk (co-founder of the rock n' roll Rainbow Foundation charity). "I've always been a Bolin fan and the thought of doing a track was very appealing," muses musical contributor Randy Jackson (of Zebra fame). "I love anything melodic and "Celebration" was a really melodic track with some cool space in it. It was an honor to participate and I'm glad it turned out so well." Along with an all-star cast that also includes Jeff Pilson from Foreigner, Dokken and Dio, Derek St. Holmes from Ted Nugent Band, Eric Martin from Mr. Big, Kimberly Dahme from Boston, Doogie White from Rainbow and Tommy's own brother Johnnie Bolin (to name a few), it's a one of a kind treasure trove that continues to extend Bolin's lauded legacy, while simultaneously introducing his music to legions of younger fans. "We felt a responsibility, first and foremost, to make sure that the listener realizes what a great songwriter Tommy Bolin was," assures co-producer/musician Chuck Giacinto. "These songs are 35 years old and had never been completed and yet they sound as relevant as if they were written yesterday." Adds fellow co-producer/musician Christopher Peterson: "To see this go from a small handful of demos to where it is now is nothing short of amazing. His depth of creativity was endless. Everyone has been incredible to work with. Getting to work with people I've respected for years as peers and fellow musicians made this project both insightful and incredibly special." In addition to the wealth of musical ingenuity contained within this space, a percentage of the proceeds from this very project will benefit the Jackson Recovery Center (www.jacksonrecovery.com), a drug and alcohol rehab facility in the artist's hometown. So sit back, relax and crank up the amplifiers to eleven for the full-throttled sonic affair, sure to showcase Bolin's enduring songwriting genius and bring his seminal career full circle. "The fact that the project will benefit a great organization like the Jackson Recovery Centers makes it all the more a worthy venture," adds Giacinto. "Everyone brought their best to the table. You got the sense early on that each person that came on board realized that this was something special and wanted to put their best work forward. And in the end, when you listen to the project as a whole, it doesn't really seem to be about the artists in any competitive way. It's about the songs. And in that sense, I think we've succeeded." Track listing: 1. They're Gonna Let Me Die (Doogie White) 2. You're No Angel (Eric Martin) 3. Meaning of Love (Jeff Pilson) 4. Celebration (Randy Jackson) 5. Tears & Turpentine (Brandon Reid Allen) 6. Evening Rain (Cristina Sanchez) 7. I Want You To Take Me There (Pale Angel) (Van McLain & Ronnie Platt of Shooting Star) 8. Jump Back (No Sky Today feat. Fin Muir) 9. Glory Train (Doogie White feat. Rex Carroll) 10. Gypsy Moon (Derek St. Holmes) 11. Road to Walk (The Michael Sean Affair) 12. It's Up To You (HiFi Superstar) 13. Slowdriver (Kimberly Dahme) 14. Blues Gonna Take Me Away (Robin McAuley) 15. Long Way to Go (The 77's) 16. Feel It's Time For Love (A Gain of Ten) 17. Love is a Bandit (John Kelly Gannett). WebLinks: www.misterbolinslatenightrevival.com / www.facebook.com/pages/Mister-Bolins-Late-Night-Revival/155150597852367.   xx URIAH HEEP CELEBRATE 40 YEARS OF ROCK: Uriah Heep are heading to Australia in early 2011 and its time for Celebration! Uriah Heep has often been referred as "one of the greatest bands from the '70s". In their 40-year musical career Uriah Heep accomplished to release 21 studio-albums. Altogether their records sold more than 30 million units worldwide. To celebrate their 40th band-anniversary Uriah Heep decided to look back to their past without melancholy or nostalgia. Uriah Heep look to the future proudly and are happy about their 40 years of joyful relationship with their audience. That's how the title 'Celebration' came about. Heep history has been an extraordinary journey and it was time that their greatest classics were recorded in studio by the line up playing them live to fans all over the world for more than 20 years. The band re-recorded 12 of their most successful songs: classics like 'Free Me', 'Gypsy', 'The Wizard', 'Easy Living' and of course their all-time smash-hit 'Lady In Black'. In addition to that they have composed and recorded two completely new songs as a special gift to their fans 'Only Human' and 'Corridors of Madness', two of their best tracks in years. 'Celebration' will also be a tour, reaching every major city all over the world including Australia. This Deluxe Edition is the one all hardcore fans will want to have in their collection. It will feature a DVD with Uriah Heep's outstanding live-show at legendary 'Sweden Rock Festival 2009'. Australian Tour is on sale for March 2011. One of the biggest rock bands ever – 30 Million + sales. Great collector's edition in deluxe Digipack and bonus DVD! Totally re-recorded 'Best Of' with 2 new tracks!   MELODIC BRIEFS: This is fascinating listening for those that have a little spare time - Kiss fan Michael Brandvold has a series of rare Kiss related audio on his Blog. One such piece is a 1hr radio show from 1983 - Truth About Rock Ministries 'Kiss Exposed' Protest by the Peters Brothers, basically a 'reverend' taking up his cause to rid the world of Kiss, but then coming up against Gene Simons. Check it out at: michaelbrandvold.com/blog/. MSN /Rock Metal TV recently conducted an interview with guitarist Steve Lukather. Steve discusses New Solo Album All's Well that Ends Well. Steve confirmed that it will not record any more Toto album's in the future. MSN /Rock Metal TV is the new rock television in Spain directed by Mario Ruiz from Krea Films and veteran Spanish journalist Rafa Basa from www.RafaBasa.com. US rockers Takara performed live for the first time recently. This clip from the band on YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/Takararocks?feature=mhum. Beggars & Thieves pay tribute to Gotthard's Steve Lee at Firefest: www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7pVev0tc1k. On this weeks Hair Metal Haven, Chris Nelson will be talking to Europe's brand new super group Tainted Nation. They consist of Pete Newdeck on Vocals (Eden's Curse, Steve Grimmett), Pontus Egberg on Bass (The Poodles), Mark Cross on Drums (ex Firewind, Outloud), & Ian Nash on Guitar (Steve Grimmett Band). Then on the Power Hour hear Chris talking to Mathew Greywolf from top Power Metal band Powerwolf. This Saturday 13th November 17.00-19.00 GMT on www.phoenixradio.co.uk. STRICTLY STRYPER PODCAST: Welcome back! We have a killer episode of Strictly Stryper this November! We are going to hear another exclusive brand new track from Stryper that was just released on iTunes! That's right a brand new reworked version of the smash radio hit 'Honestly'. And we love that new version of 'Heaven and Hell' so much your gonna get to hear it again too! And the new music does not stop there! You are going to hear another brand new exclusive track from Bloodgood coming off of the brand new Intense Millennium Records remastered CD's coming out this November! Plus we have a very cool Strictly Stryper cover song coming to us this month by way of one of the original members of Stryper covering a Beatles song? You will have to tune in to check this out! PLUS plenty of Stryper news and updates! So tune in to one of our fine affiliates beginning the first weekend of November… Pure Rock Radio, Almighty Metal Radio , Untombed Radio , Uncontrolled Noize, The Refinery Rock Radio Show or brand new to carrying our show Rock X Radio!! Also check out the brand new Facebook fan page for all the news: www.facebook.com/Roxx.Productions. VR LIVE IN HOUSTON: Born from the some of rock's most notorious and influential musicians, Velvet Revolver brought their almighty brand of hard rock to a whole new generation of post-millennial fans. On November 16, their very first live DVD, Velvet Revolver: Live In Houston, hits the shelves, courtesy of Eagle Rock Entertainment. [MSRP $14.98] Filmed in 2005, while Velvet Revolver was touring in support of their best selling/Grammy Award-winning debut Contraband, Live in Houston features the original line-up of vocalist Scott Weiland, lead guitarist Slash, bassist/vocalist Duff McKagan, drummer Matt Sorum, and rhythm guitarist Dave Kushner. Showcasing rock's elite bringing the heat on hits like Slither and Fall To Pieces before the raucous, riotous Texas crowd, this 78-minute rock fest also treats fans to tracks from each member's background, including Guns N' Roses It's So Easy and Used To Love Her, and Stone Temple Pilots' Sex Type Thing, and Crackerman. Additionally, interview footage with each of the members on the band's formation is spliced into the mix, making Live in Houston the ultimate Velvet Revolver experience. Click here for e-card: www.eaglerockent.com/ecards/VelvetRevolverLive. Track Listing: 1.) Sucker Train Blues 2.) Do It For The Kids 3.) Headspace 4.) Crackerman 5.) Illegal I 6.) It's So Easy 7.) Fall To Pieces 8.) Big Machine 9.) Set Me Free 10.) Used To Love Her 11.) Slither 12.) Sex Type Thing. GUITARIST CHRIS BROOKS RETURNS WITH NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO: Fans patiently (and not so patiently) awaiting the release of Chris Brooks' second solo instrumental album will not only get their first taste of the Australian guitar sensation's sophomore effort with the release of the first single set for release on November 29, but also be given the chance to jam their own version of the track with a deluxe edition also soon to be on offer. "Velvet Claws" is the lead single from the forthcoming album entitled "The Axis of All Things", which Brooks hopes to release after another single or two. Brooks chose the first single from the new album based on the positive reception from fans who've attended recent clinics, and also from fans privy to a sample of the song on social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook. A commercial track in Brooks' opinion, "Velvet Claws" sees Brooks transcending the prog-isms of some of his early recorded work in favour of a live-sounding melodic rocker. "It's just one of the styles on the new album, but I like it for its live vibe and instant appeal factor", says Brooks. Brooks single release, the first under his new label moniker Axiology Records, will be available in a conventional digital release via CD Baby and Apple iTunes, as well as a "Deluxe Download Edition" from Brooks' site (www.chrisbrooks.com) which will feature the single, the music video, a backing track, and a concise transcription of the guitar lines in the song, giving buyers an opportunity to jam to the track and add their own styling. Chris Brooks first came to the attention of the guitar-music and prog-metal communities with the release of his debut album "The Master Plan", which has now sold over five thousand copies. Since then he has recorded with members of Yngwie Malmsteen's Rising Force, Dio, and Lord, and recorded tracks for compilation albums from Frontiers Records and Liquid Note Records. The dynamic music video for "Velvet Claws" has been created by Wollongong NSW based company Dusk Music Video Production, under the direction of Lord Tim of the band Lord, and James Lopes. The video will be launched on YouTube on same day as the single's release; November 29, 2010. WebLinks: www.chrisbrooks.com / www.facebook.com/chrisbrooksguitar / www.youtube.com/chrisbrooksmusic.

 

 

Monday, November 08, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE TWO NELSON CATALOGUE FAMILY JEWELS: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the European release on December 3 of two (2) Nelson albums: Before the Rain the demo collection of songs that secured their recording deal with Geffen Records in 1990 and Perfect Storm – After the Rain World Tour 1991 live concert album. A North American release will follow in February 2011, as a complement to the release of Nelson's brand new original album Lightning Strikes Twice. "Both of these extraordinary albums provide a Nelson time capsule," reflects Gunnar Nelson. "From the early demo recordings on 'Before the Rain' to the rare live tour recordings on 'Perfect Storm', the music on these albums offers a unique glimpse of our early career." "These two Nelson albums are indeed newly unearthed roots of the Nelson family tree," adds Matthew Nelson. "They both offer valuable insight to what makes our current sound what it is by way of an amazing journey back in time as we were first putting all of the pieces of the puzzle together." The phenomenal success of Nelson's 1990 debut LP "After The Rain" did not happen overnight. It came after years of hard work that are documented in the "Before the Rain" album, a release that tells the story of twins Matthew and Gunnar Nelson and their five year musical journey (from 1986 to 1990) to reach the Rock N' Roll Promised Land. In 1986, after writing songs with Dweezil Zappa for his debut LP "My Guitar Wants To Kill Your Momma" and writing and recording the title cut for the film "Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure" under the band name Power Tool, Matthew and Gunnar Nelson decided they needed to hone their songwriting craft and learn from experts. They started with writer/producer Jack Ponti in New Jersey and recorded the songs they wrote that year with friends that eventually became the band Skid Row. Next, they journeyed to Australia to collaborate with Little River Band's hit writer Graham Gobel and other writers for two months Down Under. A subsequent 3-month stay in the U.K. to write with hit makers Adrian Gurvitz and Argent's Russ Ballard followed. Though elements from those experiences and sessions would wind up in later attempts, Nelson finally hit musical pay dirt writing songs in a bedroom in Pacific Palisades California and recorded them in a 16-track demo studio in a converted garage in the San Fernando Valley with a then unknown writer/producer named Marc Tanner. The results are what can be heard now on "Before the Rain". These are the original demonstration recordings that caught the attention of A&R legend John Kalodner in late 1989 and scored Nelson a recording contract with Geffen/DGC Records which led to eventual sales of more than 3,000,000 copies of "After The Rain" and all the success that followed, including a World tour with over 300 concerts. Nelson's live line-up included some incredible virtuoso musicians such as Bobby Rock on drums, Brett Garsed on guitar, Paul Mirkovich on Keys and vocals and the addition of Joey Cathcart on vocals and second lead guitar. Nelson provided 4-part harmony, stellar musicianship, veteran showmanship, twin frontmen, and most importantly - great songs. Nelson played venues ranging in size from 1,200 to 60,000 seats between 1990-1992 from New York to Tokyo, sharing the stage with some other great bands with some strong openers, including House Of Lords, Tyketto, Enuff Z'nuff, Cinderella and Lynch Mob. Amazingly and sadly, throughout the 3-year phenomenon of "After The Rain", none of the tour's concerts were ever filmed in their entirety. "Perfect Storm" live audio recordings are all that remain to document the height of Nelsonmania for posterity. If you were there you are sure to remember how you felt that night experiencing the magic of the "After The Rain" tour in person. If you weren't, you can be transported back in time now through this amazing live album. With all the right components for success, the right cast of characters, the best fans, everything converging at the right place and time.... Nelson's After The Rain World Tour was "The Perfect Storm". "Before the Rain" track listing includes: After The Rain; Bits And Pieces; (Can't Live Without Your) Love And Affection; Will Ya Love Me; You're All I Need Tonight; More Than Ever; (It's Just) Desire; I Can Hardly Wait; Senorita; Everywhere I Go; Let's Get This Show On The Road; Far Away From Home; It's Gotta Get Better; I Wish; That's Love; Avalon; Runnin' Outta Time (The Silence Is Broken); Love Is All We've Got. "Perfect Storm" track listing includes: On With The Show!; Fill You Up; More Than Ever; Only Time Will Tell; Uluru; Will You Love Me; (Can't Live Without Your) Love And Affection; Two Heads Are Better Than One; Bits And Pieces; After The Rain; The Legend; Thank You And Good Night; Interlude; Everywhere I Go; Keep One Heart (full band version - studio Bonus Track). Before the Rain – performers: Matthew and Gunnar Nelson – All instruments Perfect Storm – performers: Gunnar Nelson – Lead Vocals, Guitar; Matthew Nelson - Lead Vocals, Bass; Brett Garsed - Vocals, Lead Guitar; Joey Cathcart - Vocals, Guitar; Paul Mirkovich - Vocals, Keyboards; Bob Rock - Drums. Weblinks: www.NelsonKicksAss.com / www.Facebook.com/NelsonRockBand / www.myspace.com/OfficialNelson / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx INTRODUCING OSUKARU: Osukaru looks like being the latest new melodic rock force out of Sweden, with their debut release GBG2LA out November 15. Founded in late 2009 by the former Eye and Katana guitarist Oz Osukaru and the awarded American drummer Ryan Coyle, this band quickly found its place in the reborn AOR scene. The idea was to deliver high class harmonic hard rock for the true dreamers out there. Along the way Oz was reunited with his former Katana band mates; Johan Bernspång with an A-class vocal register as well as guitarist Tobie Karlsson with more of a metal edge to his sound. As the last piece of the puzzle, a very young, beautiful and new talent named Emma Lee joined the band on bass. Read more: www.myspace.com/osukarutheband. Tell Me You'll Stay is the new single, a video for which is now available on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjPGiya7Srs. Unfortunately there already seems to be a snag in the bands plans, with this update posted at MySpace: "Unfortunately, Philip Lindstrand have to step down from his role as our lead singer for, hopefully, a limited time only because of some private reasons. But (!!) this doesn't mean he have left the band though he, if everything goes as planned, will return by the end of the summer. 'Till then, filling in as our lead singer we got Johan Bernspång from the heavy metal band Katana as well as a 2nd guitarist; Tobias Karlsson from the very same band. And yes, we will still release a CD this July as promised but because of the situation, we will make it very special for you guys. It will be a mini-album featuring the entire band, both lead singers and some special guests! It will also be a limited edition of only 1000 units so be sure to get a copy. But some major online record stores around the world will have it in stock and we will bring you the CD at our live shows as well!" So I'm not sure what this debut release consists of song wise, but I'll keep an eye on it and report back ASAP.   MELODIC BRIEFS: New Steve Augeri song Riverside can be purchased via digital download at iTunes and Amazon now. Queensryche's triple-platinum selling album, Empire, has been remastered and expanded for a 20th Anniversary Edition that will be released by Capitol/EMI next Tuesday, November 9. The new 2CD and digital packages both include the remastered album, featuring six hit singles, including the #1 smash "Silent Lucidity," as well as 13 bonus tracks, among them 10 previously unreleased live performances recorded in 1990 at London's Hammersmith Odeon. Gene Simmons has posted the following today on his Twitter page: "Working on overview of my boxed set. Literally hundreds of songs... Bigger project than I had imagined." Hundreds of Gene Simmons songs? Yikes! DONNIE IRIS CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS: Donnie Iris is releasing a Christmas CD titled Ah! Leluiah! The Christmas Album this month. It's available for order on www.donnieiris.com. Official release is noted as November 18, but pre-orders are shipping now. Track Listing: 1. Introduction 2. Angels We Have Heard On High 3. We Wish You A Merry Christmas 4. Blue Christmas 5. Emmanuel 6. O Come All Ye Faithful 7. White Christmas 8. Carol Of The Bells 9. Alleluyah Sasa! (He Is Born) 10. This Child * 11. Ave Maria 12. We Wish You A Merry Christmas (Reprise) 13. Panis Angelicus 14. The Hallelujah Chorus 15. Auld Lang Syne 16. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas 17. Silent Night. *written by Mark Avsec. WebLink: www.donnieiris.com

 

 

Friday, November 05, 2010

NEW MYLAND DUE JANUARY 2011: The Milan based AOR act known as Myland is proud to announce the upcoming release of a brand new CD, Light of a new day, scheduled to be out in stores in January 2011, produced and distributed by Point Music Germany. Led by the charismatic drummer Paolo Morbini (Eva, Exilia, Brunorock), the band has been completely refreshed since the latest release (No Man's Land -2008), and the new lineup now is: Hox Martino (Guitar), Davide Faccio (Keyboards), Fabian Andrechen (Bass), Franco Campanella (Vocals). Myland's musical direction didn't change though. Sure the new material is still very much AOR! 100% guaranteed! More info at: www.mylandmusic.com / www.myspace.com/Mylandproject.   LION MUSIC ARTIST NEWS: George Bellas has recently composed a new album that is chock-full of epic themes, rich harmonic underpinnings, intricate rhythms and advanced forms. Recording is scheduled to commence in November 2010. As with his latest release "The Dawn Of Time"; drumming legend Marco Minnemann will once again be laying down the drum tracks. Further details regarding this new album will be revealed through progress reports during the production process. Prepare for some exquisite romanticism. All parts for the entire album have been scored and are now just waiting to be recorded. The music is heavily immersed in romanticism and is molded using some complex developmental forms that have not appeared on previous releases. Some pieces are of short to moderate length while others are just under or exceed the ten minute mark. The album has a total running time of approximately 80 minutes. Much of the thematic material on this upcoming release was developed within very elaborate forms. The melodies were of utmost importance and much focus was devoted to developing them through various composing techniques. The harmonic schemes are colourfully rich and diverse. And of course, the unique rhythms used are a recognizable staple of George's style. Epic themes and grandiose forms packed into an 80 minute new album! WebLink: www.georgebellas.com. French progressive metallers Venturia have recently undergone some line-up changes as they're about to enter the studio at the end of November to record their third studio album entitled "Straight", a title that represents the efficient and catchy nature of the new tunes that have already been penned. Guitarist Charly Sahona comments, "First, bassist Thomas James Potrel decided to quit Venturia in order to focus on different projects. It was really sad news for us as he brought a lot to the band. Thomas is an amazing guy and musician, we respect his artistic choices and wish him all the best in the world and we will miss him as well as always keeping a door open for him. We are delighted to announce that Thomas' replacement is none other than our friend Franck Hermanny (Adagio) who is now an additional member as and when his Adagio schedule allows. We're very excited and proud to have the opportunity to do some stuff together with Venturia. Secondly one half of Venturia's dual vocal team Marc Ferreira will not be collaborating with the band anymore. There is no personal or artistic reason behind the decision but purely comes down to the economic times we are in. As long-time fans know the band is based in France yet Marc lives in the USA, as Venturia make no money (for the moment) asking somebody from the US to come and stay here in Europe for a recording, rehearsals involves a lot of money, more than the band makes at present and its no longer a viable position. Marc is a great musician and we wish the situation was different and I encourage everyone to check out his solo albums." As a result Charly Sahona will undertake lead male vocals to compliment the exquisite female vocals of Lydie Robin. On his new dual role of guitarist/vocalist Sahona states "It's a really big challenge for me and I will do all I can to deliver the best performances possible." The line up is completed by long-term drummer Diego Rapacchietti. Those wishing to follow the bands making of "Straight" can do so at the bands official Facebook page where during the recording of the album, all the different steps of the making of will be shown and commented by the band. SHREDGUY RECORDS PRESENTS: Shredguy Records is making available some rare and unreleased tracks from guitarist Toby Knapp. Shredguy Records' Michael McDowell says "due to Toby gaining some new fans from his successful release The Campaign (release earlier this year), it's time to make some of his earlier work available for those fans to purchase". Here is an overview of the release: Archives Of Magick will include - The 1995 EP Infinite Opposition will be released in it's entirety. Originally pressed at only 500 cassette copies on the Wild Rags record label, "Infinite" showcases the work Knapp was preparing as a follow up to his Shrapnel debut "Guitar Distortion", this time loaded with razor sharp solos behind a wall of thrash/death metal and progressive rock. The Archives will also contain Knapp's 3 song MCD "Darken" originally released in 1998 on the Defiled Records. The music of Darken can best be described as atmospheric Black/Doom metal with keyboards, searing guitar solos and hellish vocals from vocalist Necrotriton. In addition to this, the much sought after Darken demo track "Eternal Winters" will be included by popular demand. To complete the compilation Toby Knapp's 10 track solo album "Misanthropy Divine" will be released in it's entirety. Originally released in 2008 by German label "Rock It Up" records, "Misanthropy" will finally be easily available to U.S. listeners. The 20 song experience provides a glimpse into Knapp's unique world that musically knows no boundaries as sophisticated Instrumental music merges with straight up Heavy Metal and some of the most intense Black Metal to be unleashed from the U.S. The Archives is an essential addition to fans of Toby's solo outings, his work with Onward and his heralded collaborations with the Unholy entity, Godless Rising. The tracks will be available to download as a full CD or individual tracks on amazon.com, iTunes, and cdbaby.com. NEW SWEDEN ROCK 2011 BANDS ANNOUNCED: Finally it's time for Rhapsody Of Fire to play Sweden Rock. With "The Cold Embrace of Fear" the band have arrived at their ninth full-length album, and in 2011 they make their highly anticipated return to the live scene. Including SRF, like so many of you have been yearning for so long. Machistic rock, based on fat riffs, contagious choruses and a lethal groove is their simple but effective recipe for success. Mustasch will be back at the festival next summer. Next artist has developed his very own style as a blues- and rock guitarist, exemplified by his latest and 20th solo record "Common Ground". We welcome Walter Trout to Sweden Rock 2011. Last, but not least we proudly present legendary Groundhogs with guitarist Tony McPhee up front! Confirmed bands so far out of a total of around 70: Ozzy Osbourne, Saxon, Rhapsody of Fire, Mustasch, Jason & the Scorchers, Agent Steel, Walter Trout, Groundhogs, Fläsket Brinner. The tickets to Sweden Rock Festival 2011 are now released and you buy them directly online at our homepage. The first 4000 ticket holders will also get a unique jubilee t-shirt. More information at: www.swedenrock.com. FREE CHRIS POLAND PERFORMANCE AT THE HOUSE OF GUITARS ROCHESTER NY, NOV 20: As part of the annual House of Guitars Guitar Expo day, Eminence Speakers (www.eminence.com) is sponsoring a Chris Poland guitar clinic/ performance featuring his old Welkin band mates Mike Meaney and Robert "Moon" McGeoch on drums and bass respectively. Lots of special guests lined up to join in, including Rob Lamothe, vocalist of The Riverdogs and young guitar phenomenon, Randy McStine, from Binghamton, NY. More special well-known guests are awaiting confirmation. Below is some footage from Chris Poland's April 24, 2010 clinic at The House of Guitars: www.youtube.com/watch?v=gek6dDsa8HI / www.youtube.com/watch?v=ScLV891aycg as well as some videos of Chris demoing Eminence Speakers at the 2010 Winter NAMM: www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKRRcfsRIlg. In addition to Chris Poland's performance on 11/20, Michael Angelo Batio (Nitro) will also be giving a clinic performance at the House of Guitars Guitar Expo. The days events are free so come on out and be a part of something very unique and special at The House of Guitars, a historic landmark - www.houseofguitars.com. TODAY'S SITE UPDATES: MR-X has been updated with the following new features: - Kristine Nichols (The Storm) - Blue Avenue (Solo Demos)(10 Tracks) - No Sweat (UK) - Demos 87 (5 Tracks) - Bon Jovi - Tokyo, Japan, 31st December 1988 (Soundboard) MR-X Membership Details. New Reviews online today for: Allen/Lande, Two Fires, Salute, Stratosphere and Tom Galley Phenomena. Read them now.

 

 

Thursday, November 04, 2010

DON'T STOP BELIEVIN'! BRAND NEW AOR MAG ON THE WAY: It's been mentioned before - but here's the latest press release and the actual magazine cover for the new Classic Rock AOR Magazine: "An all-new magazine from the Classic Rock stable – Classic Rock Presents AOR – goes on sale November 17. We've got a major melodic-rock exclusive for the cover story: Steve Perry, the legendary former Journey frontman, talking about the band's pivotal album Escape – the record that gave the world the song Don't Stop Believin'. Elsewhere in the issue we've got a great mix of old 'n' new: the likes of Night Ranger, Survivor, REO Speedwagon and Heart stacked up alongside Crashdiet, Reckless Love, Houston and Train. There's a sprawling feature on the Top 40 AOR Vocalists Of All Time, written and compiled by Derek Oliver, the renowned melodic-rock guru. Who's No.1? Sir Michael of Bolton, perhaps? Brad Love of Aviary, even?! You'll have to buy the issue to find out. There's also a free 15-track CD, Coliseum Rock, featuring Journey, Enuff Z'Nuff, Triumph, W.E.T., Issa, White Widdow, Bangalore Choir, Moritz and many more. Geoff Barton, Editor of Classic Rock Presents AOR, said: "With acts like Foreigner and FM on Radio Two, Journey's Don't Stop Believin' the biggest-selling download of all-time, and a wave of reunions and new artists, the genre that seemed terminally out of fashion is back." Classic Rock Presents AOR hits newsstands on Wednesday, November 17, with a cover-price of £7.99. The issue comes in a special cardboard wallet featuring an all-new, specially commissioned interpretation of Journey's distinctive scarab logo (see below). Plus, on the cover of the mag itself, there's rare artwork from famed Bay Area artist Stanley (Journey, Grateful Dead) Mouse!"   MRCD SPECIAL PACKAGE OFFER - FREE SHIPPING: MRCD Special Offer! It's coming up on Christmas once again, so what better way to get merry (besides drinking), then tune into some melodic rock Christmas tunes. As a frontpage special offer, order MRCD6 We Will Rock Rule together with the new MRCD7 Forces Of Light And Dark and you'll pay ZERO for airmail shipping (Save $8.00). Purchase the set now for $33.00 and it will ship immediately. CD Details for MRCD6 and MRCD7.   xx R.I.P. CANADA'S JIM CLENCH: More sad news for classic rock fans - Jim Clench (April Wine/BTO) has passed away overnight in Canada. Jim is a Canadian bassist best known for his roles in the Canadian rock bands April Wine and Bachman Turner Overdrive. Clench was asked to join April Wine after Jim Henman decided to leave the band. Clench was April Wine's bassist from 1971 to 1975. And although Myles Goodwyn was April Wine's primary lead singer, Clench also took part in some lead vocals on songs such as "Oowatanite" and "Weeping Widow". In 1975, he decided to leave the band and was replaced by Steve Lang. His last album with the band was "Stand Back", released just before he left. In 1978, Clench was asked to join Bachman Turner Overdrive to replace Randy Bachman, who decided to start a solo career. Clench was with BTO until its demise in the late 1970s. R.I.P. Jim. MODELS SINGER JAMES FREUD COMMITS SUICIDE: Devestating news to the Australian rock community - with breaking news this afternoon that Models frontman James Freud has died. Updates to follow... "Undercover has heard that James Freud, the singer with Models, has taken his life in his Melbourne home this morning. Freud was noticeably absent when his band Models were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame last week. Sean Kelly commented that James "had fallen off the bike". In his autobiography, Freud described his life as "not without a few old-fashioned rock'n'roll excesses". He had a long-term battle with alcoholism and recounted those battles in his two books. Freud was 51-years old." ADLER'S APPETITE RELEASES FULL VERSION OF "ALIVE", NEW TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED: Adler's Appetite, the band led by former Guns N' Roses drummer Steven Adler has announced more tour dates, including additional dates for their European tour, set to start on Feb. 3rd 2011 in Rome, Italy. The band has also officially released their new single "Alive", It is currently available on iTunes as well as other online music stores. This will be the first chance for fans to get the full version of the track. A radio edit of "Alive" was released on July 29th in conjunction with Adler's tell-all biography My Appetite For Destruction: Sex Drugs and Guns N' Roses. For more info check out www.adlersappetiteonline.com. "The new songs are coming along great" says Adler. "After the response we got from performing "Alive" all summer, we are really excited to put out more original music". The band is currently in the studio writing and recording new material for a 2011 release. Tour Dates are as Follows: Dec 11 - Feelgoods, Las Vegas, NV Jan 15 - Whiskey A Go Go, Hollywood, CA NAMM Weekend Show Jan 21 - Sky City Augusta, Augusta, GA Jan 22 - 37 Main, Buford, GA Jan 28 - Club Red, Tempe, AZ Jan 29 - The Rock, Tucson, AZ Feb 03 - Qube, Rome, Italy Feb 04 - New Age Club, Roncade, Italy Feb 05 - Rock n Roll Arena, Romagnano Sesie, Italy Feb 07 - Melkweg, Amsterdam, Holland Feb 08 - Metropool, Hengelo, Netherlands Feb 10 - The Rock Temple, Kerkrade, Netherlands Feb 11 - Le Forum, Vaureal, France Feb 15 - Cafe Del Theatre, Lleida, Spain Feb 16 - Durango Club, Valencia, Spain Feb 17 - Porta Caeli, Valladolid, Spain Feb 18 - Sala Inferno, Vigo, Spain Feb 19 - TBA, La Coruna, Spain Feb 20 - Musicbox Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal Feb 22 - The Underworld, London, UK Feb 23 - The Regent, Ipswich, Suffolk, UK Feb 24 - The Yardbirds, Grimsley, Lincolnshire, UK Feb 25 - The Diamond, Sutton, Nottinghamshire, UK Feb 26 - The DUchess, York, Yorkshire, UK Feb 27 - The Robin 2, Bilston, Wolverhampton, UK YNGWIE MALMSTEEN RELENTLESS REMINDER: Relentless, the stunning new album from guitar legend and classical metal master Yngwie Malmsteen, will hit streets on November 23 via Malmsteen's own Rising Force Records. The album contains more than 60 minutes of brand new material and showcases the guitar great at his best with the signature virtuosity and mind-blowing technical speed for which he has come to be known. Relentless also features striking vocals from Tim "Ripper" Owens (Judas Priest, Iced Earth), who first collaborated with Malmsteen on 2008's critically-acclaimed Perpetual Flame (Malmsteen's first album for the Rising Force Records label). For nearly three decades, Grammy-nominated Swedish guitar icon Yngwie Malmsteen has been amazing audiences with dazzling technical speed and ability. Malmsteen's signature style of playing, which combines elements of seemingly disparate styles of music - metal and classical, spawned the now commonplace genres of heavy metal known as "shred guitar" and "neo classical" and earned Malmsteen the title "the Paganini of heavy metal". Malmsteen was the first guitarist to have his own Fender signature guitar model (even before Eric Clapton). He has graced the cover of more than 200 magazines worldwide, has won every guitar award imaginable and to date, has sold millions of records. Time recently named Malmsteen one of the "Top Ten Greatest Electric Guitar Players", an honor he shared with the likes of Les Paul, Jimmy Page and Jimi Hendrix. "Guitar Hero" enthusiasts know they have arrived when they are bestowed with the Yngwie Malmsteen award in the Xbox 360 version of "Guitar Hero 2". The award signifies a 1000+ note streak in succession. EXCLUSIVE DOWNLOADS FROM PHIL VINCENT: Two new Phil Vincent cover tunes can be sampled and purchased via the following links: Cover of The Who's Baba O'Riley - www.cdbaby.com/cd/philvincent13 and Cover of the Beatles And I Love Her - www.cdbaby.com/cd/philvincent12. NOTORIOUS "RADIO SILENCE" RELEASED ON ANGEL AIR RECORDS NOVEMBER 2: November 2 sees the long awaited release of Notorious - The Original Radio Silence sessions, featuring Sean Harris (ex-Diamond Head) and Robin George (Phil Lynott / David Byron). Available at www.angelair.co.uk. Check out Robin's other 7 albums also available from Angel Air Records, iTunes, HMV and all leading record stores, including the re-mastered classic, Dangerous Music, featuring Robin's biggest hit single, Heartline and bonus tracks. More Information: www.robingeorge.co.uk/notorious.htm.   BLUES STAR ON BLUE RAY: Provogue is pleased to announce the UK release of the companion piece to 2009's hugely successful DVD release Joe Bonamassa - Live At The Royal Albert Hall (originally released in October 2009). Now, for the first time, the legendary concert, featuring a special guest appearance from Eric Clapton, will be released on special 2 x CD and Blu-Ray formats in the UK on Monday November 15th and Monday November 22nd respectively. For the official online announcement and pre-order links, click here - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/provogue/joebonamassa.htm. When blues rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa took the stage at Royal Albert Hall in May 2009, he fulfilled a dream he'd held since first picking up a guitar as a kid in upstate New York. The sold-out concert — fresh off the back of his album The Ballad Of John Henry — marked Bonamassa's headlining debut at arguably the most prestigious concert venue in the world. "May 4, 2009 was a day 20 years in the making," says Bonamassa. "I have never been so honoured in my life. It was truly larger than the sum of its parts." The Blu-Ray edition, which also features an exclusive interview with Bonamassa, presents that magical night in full — for posterity, and for all the fans that couldn't be among the 4,000 concert goers who filled the seats. The 12-camera high definition, Surround Sound shoot was produced by Bonamassa's collaborator Kevin Shirley.

 

 

Wednesday, November 03, 2010

ZINK MUSIC - NEW RELEASES OUT ON NOVEMBER 26: A strictly limited edition CD-single only to be sold on the Scandinavian LA Project concerts featuring Joseph Williams in November 2010. The single features a first taste from the Joseph Williams & Peter Friestedt album which is to be released in 2011. The song "Say Goodbye" is a great mix of Westcoast and classic AOR and for sure a future fan favourite. The other songs are "Gotta Find It" from the first LA Project album and "One More Night" from the second, lead vocals on all three by Joseph Williams. If, that is if, we have some left after the tour they will be up for sale in our webshop! LA Project Tour-dates: November 12. Fasching, Stockholm, Sweden. www.fasching.se November 13. Nefertiti, Gothenburg, Sweden. www.nefertiti.se November 14. Glenghuset, Sarpsborg, Norway. www.glenghuset.no For those in Stockholm we will be at the record fair in Solnahallen on November 27, we will have all the CD's (incl. the new ones) from the shop plus many many more on sale - hope to see you there. Rolf Jardemark Sunset In Guitarland / Rolf Jardemark makes a triumphant return to the sound that characterized his 1989 debut album "Soft Landing" back in 1989. The new album "Sunset in Guitarland" is a greatly produced album of Westcoast and Smooth Jazz. By his side, Jardemark has some of the genres most legendary musicians, like John JR Robinson, Ralph Humphreys, Neil Stubenhaus and phenomenal vocal contributions from both Bill Cantos and Michael Ruff! On here is also drummer Per Lindvall and guitarist Ulf Wakenius. Bass player Lars Danielsson and keyboardist Dan Evmark, who both was part of the classic Swedish Westcoast band Rite On Time are also well represented. "Sunset in Guitarland" was produced by Peter Friestedt and recorded between 2006 and 2010 in Sweden, Los Angeles, Hawaii and Brazil. Josef Melin Offshore Monsters EP / Hailing from Sweden, Josef Melin is the brainchild of the band Smooth Reunion; they released their critical acclaimed full length debut "Cleaning Up the Business" in 2008. The EP "Offshore Monsters" is a first taste from his solo debut "Prepare for Y2K", to be released in January 2011. This is an excellent mix of Pop, Jazz, Soul with a big portion of Steely Dan; well crafted, humoristic and performed with brilliance and charm! The EP features two versions of the title track, a long cool version of "Let Me Know" and the non-album track "Wave to Friends and Family". Four songs in total and an absolute must for those who can't wait and indeed something extra for connoisseurs and collectors! For more information, store and sound-samples - please visit www.zinkmusic.com / www.myspace.com/zinkmusic.   xxxx DAVID "ROCK" FEINSTEIN SOLO ALBUM DUE: David "Rock" Feinstein - the former member of Ronnie Dio & The Prophets, The Electric Elves, Elf, and the leader of the legendary NYC band, The Rods - is about to unleash an all-new solo effort via the Niji Entertainment Group, Bitten By The Beast. Although the album's official release date is November 23, 2010, fans can now pre-order 'Bitten By The Beast' via the Official Ronnie James Dio webstore. To pre-order the album, you can go to this direct link: officialronniejamesdiowebstore.com. The nine-track disc will also be available as a deluxe Digipack, and will certainly be of interest to metal fans worldwide, due to Feinstein's impressive hard rock pedigree. But also, because the album features what turned out to be one of the last-ever recorded vocals by Ronnie James Dio (Feinstein's cousin), on the headbanging anthem "Metal Will Never Die." "I feel like it was meant for me to write 'Metal Will Never Die'," explains Feinstein. "And it was meant to be that Ronnie James Dio should sing it! Whatever power it was that brought the two of us back together musically, I am so thankful for. Now, 'Metal Will Never Die' means more to me than any other song that I have written in my whole career as a songwriter and musician. I can't wait for the world to hear it!" And now, fans have the opportunity to pre-order and be the first to experience this must-hear metal disc. 'Bitten By The Beast' Track listing: Smoke On The Horizon, Evil In Me, Break Down The Walls, Metal Will Never Die (Featuring Ronnie James Dio on lead vocals), Kill The Demon, Rock's Boogie, Give Me Mercy, Run For Your Life, Gambler Gambler. For more information, visit: www.bittenbythebeast.com / www.myspace.com/davidrockfeinstein / www.facebook.com/nijientertainmentgroup. MELODIC BRIEFS: Glen Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath) has announced on Twitter that Black Country Communion will begin recording their second album in January. The first new music from The Cars can be heard on Facebook: www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=445115559565. For Cars fans, it sounds like the band stepped right back into 1984. New Haven music video on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdvqKSOkS-s. George Lynch says Jeff Pilson will join Brian Tichy and himself on the next Lynch Mob album - but no word if Oni Logan will be vocalist: guitarinternational.com/wpmu/2010/10/27/george-lynch-an-interview-with-furious-george. For those curious, a recent set list for Great White featuring Jani Lane (October 31) was as follows: 01 Desert Moon, 02 Lady Red Light, 03 Face The Day, 04 On Your Knees, 05 Save Your Love, 06 Jani Lane-Warrant Medley, 07 Mista Bone, 08 Rock Me, 09 House Of Broken Love, 10 Can't Shake It, 11 Once Bitten Twice Shy. POWERWORLD ALBUM IN STORES NOVEMBER 9, 2010 ON SPV/STEAMHAMMER: Bravewords.com is exclusively premiering the title track of the new Powerworld album entitled "Human Parasite". Check out the song on Bravewords "Knuckle Tracks" Player by heading over to www.bravewords.com. Powerworld is releasing their new album in North America on November 9. After leaving Freedom Call in the end of 2005 Ilker Ersin started to build up his own band Powerworld. Ilker wrote every song, produced the demos and searched for the right musicians to complete the band. It was clear, that he would ask his long-time friend Barish Kepic of ex-Jaded Heart for the spot as guitarist. With vocalist Steffen Brunner, Nils Neumann ex-Freedom Call on the keyboards and ex-At Vance drummer Jürgen Lucas, the line up was ready to record the songs. Drums were recorded by Sascha Gerstner of Helloween in his G-Tracks Studios. Chris Lausmann (Bonfire/Jaded Heart/Pink Cream 69/Voices of Rock/Cornerstone etc.) did the rough mix. Ilker finished the mixes of all the songs and Achim Köhler (Brainstorm, Primal Fear, Edguy, Avantasia etc.) did the mastering. The band signed a worldwide record deal with Metal Heaven/AOR Heaven and released their self titled debut of in March of 2008. Unfortunately, due to prior engagements Powerworld were unable to play live. During the making of the second CD, vocalist Steffen Brunner and drummer Jürgen Lucas parted ways with Powerworld. The rest of the band finished the work on the new CD as fast as possible to fulfil their contract with the record company. With drummer Simon Michael of Subway to Sally they had found a man who was able to play the new songs in the studio in just a few days. The band started the search for the right vocalist immediately after the drum-recordings. After a short time the ex-Sargant Fury/Threshold-front man Andrew "Mac" McDermott was found. He possessed the necessary self identity and musical maturity to complete the Powerworld package, giving the whole sound a more rocky and less mainstream metal sound than their debut. Shortly after that Barish asked drummer Achim Keller of Victory to join the band as a full member. SPV / Steamhammer signed a worldwide deal with Powerworld in August 2010. The new album "Human Parasite" will be released in Europe on October 22nd and in the USA/Canada on November 9th. The band will embark on a European tour in early 2011. Stay tuned. LINE-UP: Andrew "Mac" McDermott - vocals (Ex-Sargant Fury, Ex-Threshold), Ilker Ersin - bass (Ex-Freedom Call, Ex-MoonDoc), Nils Neumann - keyboards (Ex-Freedom Call), Barish Kepic - guitars (Ex-Jaded Heart), Achim Keller - drums (Victory). Tracklisting: 01. Cleansed by Fire 02. Stand Up 03. Evil In Me 04. Time Will Change 05. Human Parasite 06. Hope 07. East Comes To West 08. Children Of The Future 09. Caught In Your Web 10. Tame Your Demons 11. Might Of Secrets 12. King For A Day. Visit Powerworld on the Web: www.powerworld.org / www.myspace.com/powerworld.

 

 

Tuesday, November 02, 2010

LATEST ROCK CANDY RECORDS TITLES: New Rock Candy titles - both are available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price of £11.99 for the next two weeks ending on November 14. Melidian 'Lost In The Wild' CANDY084 / The late 1980s provided an avalanche of melodic rock bands, a movement that fed off the poptastic cavorting of big-haired platinum rockers such as Slaughter, White Lion, Winger and Warrant. Naturally, every label in the world was on the lookout for their very own stars, resulting in an extraordinary amount of talent landing prized record deals. Of course, lack of quality control meant that a fair amount of tosh hit the record racks, most of which was rightly dismissed by the public, but amongst the endless supply of also-rans were a number of classy melodic rock acts that really should have received far more attention and success. The lone Melidian album 'Lost In The Wild', originally released on CBS in 1989, was truly a peach of an album, yet it was one of those sadly lost amidst the throng of half baked records desperately vying for a slice of a market that was about to be engulfed by back-to-basics grunge and irritating college rock. Perhaps Melidian's educated musical roots were to blame – their sound was a triumphant mix of pompish keyboard driven AOR and muscular riffs, laced with razor sharp guitar riffs. Imagine a satisfying combination of Survivor, Bad English and Giant for an accurate approximation of their sound and you'll be half way to paradise. Time now to reappraise a most satisfying, yet largely unheralded, album from this little known New York City five piece. Track Listing: 1. Ready To Rock 2. Livin' Under The Gun 3. Fire Up The Heart 4. Sleepless Nights 5. Hands Off 6. Lost In The Wild 7. Overheated 8. Top Of The Rock 9. Broken Toys. Heavens Edge 'S/T' CANDY083 / It's no secret that Philadelphia has, over the years, become synonymous with the sweet sound of meticulously manufactured soul and r 'n' b. However, if you dig a little deeper, you'll uncover a thriving hard rock scene best exemplified by the late 80s banshee wail of bands like Cinderella, Britny Fox and Tangier. Add to that list the name of Heavens Edge and suddenly you've got a pack of lean 'n' mean rockers that could - and did - rival both Los Angeles and New York for sheer quality and bravado. Assembled from the cream of local Phili bands, Heavens Edge rapidly snagged a substantial deal with industry powerhouse Columbia Records, who at the time were a label eager to increase their market share of profitable melodic rock acts. Renowned British producer Neil Kernon (Dokken, Queensryche, Autograph etc) was tapped to produce but when the album was delivered they found a new label hierarchy had taken over... one much more fixated on the embryonic sounds of grunge. Originally released in 1989, 'Heavens Edge' contained a bumper selection of loud and proud hard rock anthems, tracks that were easily comparable to their contemporaries bringing to mind a delicious blend of Bon Jovi, Ratt and Dokken; fiery melodic rock with a finger firmly on the trigger all wrapped up in production to die for. It doesn't get much better than this. Track listing: 1. Intro 2. Play Dirty 3. Skin To Skin 4. Find Another Way 5. Up Against The Wall 6. Hold On Tonight 7. Can't Catch Me 8. Bad Reputation 9. Daddy's Little Girl 10. Is That All You Want? 11. Come Play The Game 12. Don't Stop, Don't Go Bonus Tracks: 13. Superstition (Demo) 14. U Got It (Demo) 15. Just Another Fire (Demo).   xx ROCK SINGER ROBIN BECK IS BACK WITH THE GREAT ESCAPE: The Great Escape will be the title of this new masterpiece and will be out on February 11. Originally from Brooklyn, Robin Beck's career started long before anyone had ever heard of her. "I dreamed about being an artist and a song writer since I was about 9 years old". But it wasn't Robin's fate to be a country singer. Growing up in Brooklyn in the 70's Robin learned a lot about R&B, and the Beatles and Carol King, right there on the stoops and corner of her block. "There were a few boys that used to gather on the corner with a guitar and I was drawn to the sound like a moth to a flame... they always invited me to sing and I was loud!". Robin was just a kid when she left home to find herself in Daytona Beach Florida searching for her dream to sing in a rock band. She was discovered by a local musician (Alex London) who got Robin her first professional job with guitarist Johnny Conklin. Robin landed her first recording contract for a single entitled Still In Love, after being discovered while playing in a Detroit club Back in New York, Robin started to work on different projects including the Broadway musical "Got To Go Disco" and finally started a proper recording career with the release of her first album Sweet Talk in 1979 with Kenny Lehman of the famed "Dance, Dance, Dance". While living in the Big Apple, she started to become involved in the jingle business and it was during that period that she got to work with some of the greatest musicians in the world. It was thanks to a certain jingle that Robin's name came to prominence in 1988 when the song First Time (a Coca-Cola theme tune) became a huge hit worldwide. The subsequent album Trouble or Nothin' featured contributions from such luminaries as Steve Lukather (Toto), Paul Stanley (KISS), Diane Warren, long standing writing partner Jeff Kent and Desmond Child to name a few. Robin's follow up album, Human Instinct, was released on the D.S.B. label in 1992 and featured once again the cream of the session world (Jeff Porcaro, Kim Bullard, Tim Pierce, Michael Landau, Lee Ritenour, Michael Thompson etc.) and songwriters (Mark Spiro, Jeff Kent, Journey's Jonathan Cain, Heart's Ann and Nancy Wilson, Sue Shifrin, Glen Burtnik etc.).Can't Get Off dates back to 1994 on East/West and once again she proved her qualities as a fine singer with songs offered by the likes of Clif Magness (Avril Lavigne, Steve Perry), Steve Kipner, Michael Bolton, Ole Evenrude, Marc Jordan. A break from the music industry was in the cards and it was during this time that Robin met and married James Christian, record producer and singer with the rock band House of Lords. Together they had a beautiful daughter, Olivia. Despite her new role as a mother, Robin couldn't stay entirely out of the limelight and in 1998 she recorded a duet with Italian star 'Pupo' which required that she travel throughout Italy and Germany to promote it with nine month old Olivia at her side. In 1999, Robin released the singles "Jewel in my Crown" and "Shut up and Kiss Me" and in 2003 she released the full album "Wonderland". Robin's solo career and writing has always been the most important part of her focus. However, through the years her talents have been called upon many times for session work alongside some of the music greats of 20th century. She has performed with Patty Austin, headlined with Tina Turner and Richard Marx and recorded with top artists such as, David Bowie, Michael Bolton, Deep Purple and Cher to name but a few. Her long awaited return to melodic rock happened finally in 2005 with Do You Miss Me, a beautiful piece of melodic rock music with superb original songs and was right up there with her most rocking efforts like "Trouble or Nothing" and "Human Instinct". "Living On A Dream" was released in 2006 by Frontiers Records. The classic 'First Time' was also back in the spot light and during that same year as Robin was asked by Universal to re create the vocal along with a new dance mix of "First Time" with the famed Sunblock mixers. This too proved to be an instant success and Robin performed on Top Of The Pops. Robin once again topping the chart with a spot on the UK's official Billboard Charts at #9 and selling to date over 3, million units. In February 2009 Kicking off her new label Her Majesty's Music Room, Robin gave her fans a real treat by releasing the 20th anniversary Silver Edition Trouble Or Nothin' CD. Every note was newly recorded, with a host of killer new songs included. This was something Robin had wanted to give her fans for a long time. By now you may be wondering why Robin has ventured off on her own and starting her own label Her Majesty's Music Room. Well true to form as life goes, we will all at some point or another go back to where we started from. For Robin it's about her dream of becoming a songwriter who sings her own songs and travels to the beat of a different drum. While others may be waiting for their big break to come and get out of the straggle hold of fear, Robin is breaking down all the barriers "For years I believed that I had no power because I didn't sit behind a desk up at a record company drawing a check and calling the shots. Those days are over! In order to live the dream you have to take stock in it. After all it's my dream and if you aren't sharing it you may as well not be in it with me." After a long 2 years of writing and performing along with managing a new young band from Wales named Kane'd, and running her own record label, Robin has completed her long awaited follow up to "Trouble Or Nothing" 20th Anniversary edition. The new cd is called "The Great Escape" and is due February 11th 2011. The album will be distributed by Sony/Neo and Cargo Distribution. Get ready for "The Great Escape". 11 original songs, no sleepers all keepers! Passionate and tough, sensitive yet cutting lyrics and melodies that will resonate and find a home with the rock n' roll classics. Never underestimate a true Rocker! Robin never gives up and she never gives in… "I waited a long time to do a duet with one of my favorite male rock gods, Joe Lynn Turner of Rainbow and Deep Purple… "That All Depends On What You Do Tonight"…The wait was well worth it!" The Songs are written by Robin Beck, Tommy Denander and James Christian and produced by James Christian, mixed by James Christian and Co-produced by Tommy Denander. Robins goal is to succeed by her own terms. She continues to be a driving force, an innovator and a true leader in her Genre. One of the dynamics that makes Robin so special and unique is that she truly appreciates and loves her fans as much as they appreciate and love her. The proof of this is right there in the music.   NEW FILTER VIDEO PREMIERE: Today Filter premiered a video for No Love over at AOL. Noisecreep also posted an acoustic session with the band that was recorded back in September. You can check out both from the links below. Filter is in the middle of a headlining tour that wraps up Nov 12 in St Paul. No Love video: music.aol.com/video/no-love/filter/bc:653367145001 / Noisecreep Acoustic Session: www.noisecreep.com/2010/11/01/filter-no-love-video-premiere Filter 'No Love' Tour Oct 22 Dallas, TX @ Palladium Ballroom Oct 23 The Woodlands, TX (Buzzfest w/ BUSH & more) Oct 24 Tyler, TX @ The Venue Down Under Oct 27 Little Rock, AR @ Rev Room Oct 29 Knoxville, TN @ Valarium Oct 31 Chattanooga, TN @ Rhythm & Brews Nov 1 Nashville, TN @ Exit/In Nov 2 Cleveland, Oh @ The Grog Shop Nov 4 Flint, MI @ Machine Shop Nov 5 Grand Rapids, MI @ The Intersection Nov 6 Chicago, IL @ The Cubby Bear Nov 9 Des Moines, IA @ People's Court Nov 11 Fargo, ND @ The Venue Nov 12 St Paul, MN @ Station 4 More dates TBA… Website: www.officialfilter.com. GARY SCHUTT BAND LIVE IN FLORIDA: Oh My God, it's two weeks away! That's right folks, Gary Schutt Band is gonna rock downtown St. Petersburg FL on Saturday November 13th at 2:00 p.m. right before Rick Springfield! All new originals, new merch, covers songs you love and special guest singer Todd Plant! You don't want to miss this! Ribfest is an annual event, and it's huge! For ticket and information go to ribfest.org.   R.I.P. BOBBY LEE MORGAN, 45 PERFORMER, MUSICIAN AND SONGWRITER: "Bobby Lee Morgan, Musician and Songwriter of the Nashville, Tennessee late 80's-early 90's rock band Badd Attitude passed away on Oct. 29th just weeks after a Rock and Roll showcase that saw the reunion of what was the "Hometown Hero Hair Band" waiting to be signed back in 1990 before the onslaught of the grunge scene. Bobby Lee wrote well crafted, melodic, catchy rock songs about girls, parties and love that set Badd Attitude apart from the rest of the local Metal scene. The Badd Attitude album never saw the light of day in 1990 and sat collecting dust until being released this past July by FNA Records. After the CD release there was talk of more shows as well as the opening of a nightclub in Printers Alley that Bobby Lee had been working on for some time. Bobby Lee was well loved among the Nashville Rock Scene and was in the middle of one of the most successful periods of his life. Bobby Lee is preceded in death by his Grandmother and Mother who he had thanked in the CD liner notes for their support and love. On Nov. 7th a benefit Concert will be held at Nashville Center Stage. FNA Records is donating Five Dollars towards funeral expenses for every Badd Attitude CD purchased before Nov. 30th. The charitable balance will benefit his niece and nephews." - Brad Hardisty, Nashville, TN.   xx NEW PUSH FOR HERMAN ZE GERMAN: Herman Ze German featuring legendary scorpions drummer Herman Rarebell, has joined the Los Angeles based artist roster of the Biggtime Entertainment Agency. Biggtime is the USA booking agency for Great White, Kix, Slaughter, Leatherwolf, Steven Pearcy of Ratt and others! Lead guitarist of "HZG" Duke Jackson says "we are very proud to be part of the Biggtime family. And Herman can't wait to get on the road and rock you into a "blackout". "Herman Ze German" will be playing some US festivals and concerts in 2011. line up: Herman Rarebell (Scorpions) - drums; Duke Jackson (Strikeforce) - lead guitar; Joe Council (Push) - bass; Timexx Nasty (Drivin Rain) - vocals. Check out Biggtime at: www.biggtimeinc.com / www.hermanrarebell.com.   JETBOY SIGNS WITH DEMON DOLL RECORDS TO RELEASE GREATEST HITS PACKAGE: Glam & Sleaze Rock Veterans Jetboy have inked a deal with Demon Doll Records to release a Greatest Hits compilation CD entitled "Now and Then". Comprised of the band's strongest material from 1986 to present, "Now and Then" gives fans a collection of Jetboy tunes that will satisfy their every taste. The entire 14 song CD drips Glam, Blues, Sleaze and Punk that fans have come to expect from the legendary San Francisco bad boys. The new album will be available exclusively for sale worldwide distribution through DemonDollRecords.com on Halloween October 31st, 2010. "Now and Then" pushes the envelope with remastered versions of their biggest hits, "Feel the Shake", "Make Some Noise" and "Snakebite" from their 1988 Billboard Charting debut "Feel the Shake" as well as "Stomp It (Down To The Bricks), "Evil", "Heavy Chevy" and "Bullfrog Pond" from their 1990 Sophomore Release "DamnedNation".  Never before has Jetboy ever offered a comprehensive greatest hits package of this kind. Jetboy's distinctive sound will hearken you back to the late 80's and early 90's with the new whiskey soaked, groove oriented smash tracks "Going Down (Above the Clouds)", "Perfectly Wrong" and "Dogs Gotta Roam" as well as cutting loose the brand new, never released ass kicker "Dying Inside". This is a must have for every Glam & Sleaze fan on the planet! Sharing the stage with the likes of The Scorpions, Motley Crue, Kix, Whitesnake, Poison and Cheap Trick as well as terrorizing Headbanger's Ball into heavy rotation with their videos "Evil" and "Feel The Shake", it's safe to say that Jetboy have left their mark on the Glam & Sleaze scene for many years, and with "Now and Then" - Jetboy's Greatest Hits, the band is poised to usher their fans into 2011 with an updated sound based in classic grinding blues. "Now and Then" is a total package designed to escort fans who still believe in one of the greatest eras in Rock 'N' Roll History! Track Listing: 1. Dogs Gotta Roam 2. Going Down (Above the Clouds) 3. Perfectly Wrong 4. Stomp It (Down To the Bricks) 5. Heavy Chevy 6. Evil 7. Bullfrog Pond 8. Feel the Shake 9. Make Some Noise 10. Snakebite 11. One Night Stand 12. I Wanna Be a Millionaire 13. No Limit 14. Dying Inside (Unreleased Track). To purchase "Then and Now", please visit Demon Doll Records at the following address: demondollrecords.com/Jetboy_-_Now_and_Then.html.   JACKYL COLLABORATE WITH DMC ON NEW SINGLE: What a kick ass year 2010 has turned out to be for rockers Jackyl! Jesse Dupree (Vocals), Jeff Worley (Guitar), Roman Glick (Bass) & Chris Worley (Drums) celebrated the release of the new Jackyl CD, When Moonshine and Dynamite Collide by personally calling everyone that pre-ordered to thank them for their support. "We never expected just how cool that was going to be" Jackyl Lead Vocalist Jesse James Dupree quoted. As their first single She's Not A Drug shot up the active rock charts, Jackyl continued to tour from coast to coast. The shenanigans were just beginning! Dupree serves as executive producer of the truTV hit series Full Throttle Saloon, which looks at the behind-the-scenes mayhem at Michael Ballards legendary biker watering hole in Sturgis, South Dakota. The second exciting season, which features a performance by Jackyl, launches on Wednesday, Nov. 17, at 10 p.m. (ET). Jackyl are ending 2010 with a bang by collaborating with R&R Hall of Fame legend DMC from Run DMC by releasing the single Just Like A Negro. DMC will be performing the extremely powerful song with Jackyl on stage during their late fall and winter tour. Darryl is an inspiration and its an honor to sing and share the stage with him, especially having such a impacting message in our song, Just Like A Negro says Dupree of DMC. The single is available for purchase at www.jackyl.com and comes with a limited edition Jackyl featuring DMC poster, or download at ITUNES. Check out the video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TMO9A7uccw. Jackyl Fall Tour Dates Confirmed: 11/24 in Kansas City, MO @ Midland Theatre. 11/25 in Louisville, KY @ Phoenix Hill. 11/26 in Traverse City, MI @ Ground Zero. 11/27 in Flint, MI @ Machine Shop 12/1 in Fargo, ND @ The Venue 12/2 in Council Bluffs, IA @ Whiskey. 12/3 in Green Bay,WI @ The Club at Tom, Dick, & Harrys. 12/4 in Libertyville, IL @ Austins. 12/5 in Tailgaters ­ Bolingbrook, IL 12/10 in Cincinnati, OH @ Bogarts 96 Rock X-Mas Show. More dates TBC... For more information, please visit: www.rockmerollmejackylmeoff.com. MOONDANCE JAM ON TV: For the first time in its 19-year history, the Moondance Jam rock festival will be broadcast on television. America's premier television provider, DIRECTV, will air the 2010 festival exclusively on The 101 Network. Blaze TV filmed performances during the festival last July 15 – 17 and are producing ten one hour shows featuring Moondance Jam main stage acts. The programs will air as part of the DIRECTV Concert Series and begin airing on The 101 Network this November. Here is the schedule so far. More shows will be added soon: · Saturday 11/20: REO Speedwagon · Monday 11/22: REO Speedwagon · Saturday 12/11 Buckcherry · Monday 12/13 Buckcherry · Saturday 12/18 Sammy Hagar · Monday 12/20 REO Speedwagon · Monday 12/27 Jonny Lang This news comes as the staff and fans of the festival continue to mourn the passing of festival founder Bill Bieloh. Bill passed away in the morning hours of September 24. His legacy can never be put into words, but perhaps a small part of what he meant to the bands, fans and staff of the Moondance Jam festivals will be apparent when you watch these performances from the 2010 festival.

 

 

Monday, November 01, 2010

YES SIGNS NEW WORLDWIDE RECORDING DEAL WITH FRONTIERS RECORDS: New Studio CD, First In Nearly A Decade, Slated For 2011 / Grammy Award winners Yes, one of the most influential and ground-breaking progressive rock 'n' roll bands, today announced the signing of a new worldwide recording deal with the Italian-based record label, Frontiers Records. Songs such as "Roundabout", "I've Seen All Good People", "Owner Of A Lonely Heart", and countless others, have served to place the group upon the pantheon of rock 'n' roll history. But history is still, yet to be written, because Steve Howe, Chris Squire and Alan White, along with Oliver Wakeman (Rick Wakeman's son) and new lead singer Benoit David, will enter the studio to record the group's first new CD in a decade. It is anticipated for release before Summer 2011. Frontiers Records President, Serafino Perugino said: "I am truly honored and excited to have these Rock and Roll pioneers on the label. Yes have written some fabulous pages in the history of this music and I look forward to keep on writing new exciting chapters with them!" "Having the two new guys in the line-up has inspired the impetus behind the need for Yes to return to the studio" explains Chris Squire, while Steve Howe adds "The new lineup has shown that we can operate well as a touring band, so now to expand that to recording would broaden our repertoire and the inclusion of Oliver and Benoit on new recordings will show a new leaf in YES music's continuing development." One of the most popular concert attractions of all-time Yes's remarkable career has served to re-define the boundaries of rock. Proving to be a dominant force, for more than four decades, YES has sold over 33 million albums worldwide. Their symphonic use of sound and innovative musical style has made each of the group's players are virtuosos in their own right.   MEAT LOAF RELEASES NEW DIGITAL EP: Legendary American musician Meat Loaf has released a special digital EP entitled If I Can't Have You, featuring a rollicking version of title-track "If I Can't Have You" and two brand-new bonus tracks. "If I Can't Have You" is a duet with former American Idol judge and world renowned songwriter Kara DioGuardi, and also features House star Hugh Laurie on piano. Besides the powerful duet, the EP also features a live version of the Rocky Horror Picture Show classic "Hot Patootie Bless My Soul" from Meat Loaf's successful Hang Cool Teddy Bear Summer tour. The third song on this release is "Don't Get Me Goin," a Hang Cool Teddy Bear studio B-side. In other exciting Meat Loaf news, he recently appeared as a Rocky Horror Picture Show-hating newsman (alongside original Rocky alum Barry Bostwick) on Fox's hit show Glee. The episode "The Rocky Horror Glee Show" featured the Glee cast re-imagining the original film, with multi-talented actor John Stamos performing Meat Loaf's signature number, "Hot Patootie Bless My Soul."   BRYAN ADAMS GOES BARE BONES FOR NEW LIVE CD: Bare Bones is the eleventh studio album from Canadian rocker Bryan Adams and was recorded during his acoustic 'Bare Bones Tour' in early 2010. The album features re-workings of songs from Adam's extensive back catalogue stripped back to just vocals and guitar, with the occasional backing by keyboardist Gary Breit. The album captures Adams at his most vulnerable and raw and breathes new life into some of his most popular songs. Adams says he was inspired to re-record the tracks by his experience recording 'MTV's Unplugged' in the Nineties. So he began performing the re-worked songs during his live shows. 'As the tour rolled across the USA and Canada, many people were asking for a recording of the songs as they had just heard in the show. So in response to that, I decided to record a few shows to see if a recording was even interesting… I like the way the songs carry themselves warts and all, bare-boned, without the original arrangements of a full band or an orchestra. These recordings only have the voices and hand claps of the fans in the audience and the ambience of the room to lift them.' Narrowing down the selection of songs was such a difficult task that Adams threw it open to his fans, who voted through Twitter and his official website. The Canadian-born singer-songwriter has sold more than 65 million albums worldwide, garnered 21 top ten hits, and earned nominations for three Academy Awards and five Golden Globes. Bare Bones track listing: You've Been A Friend To Me, Here I Am, I'm Ready, Night To Remember, It Ain't A Party (If You Can't Come 'Round), (Everything I Do) I Do It For You, Cuts Like A Knife, Please Forgive Me, Summer Of '69, Walk On By, Cloud Number 9, It's Only Love, Heaven, Right Place, The Way You Make Me, The Only Thing That Looks Good On Me Is You, You're Still Beautiful To Me, Straight From The Heart, I Still Miss You...A Little Bit, All For Love.   GUITAR GURU GARY HOEY RELEASES 17TH ALBUM: Ax-slinger Gary Hoey has had a busy year with numerous projects and extensive touring. Most recently, he wrapped up his latest album Utopia, which released on his own label Wazoo Music Group. While Hoey is known for his signature versions of covers (Hocus Pocus, Lowrider, Misirlou, etc.) this album features 12 all new, all original songs. Utopia features Hoey's widely recognized guitar skills, while showcasing his growth as a singer and songwriter. "Utopia's been a long time coming," explains Hoey. "Utopia took over 2 years to make because I wanted time to develop my songs on tour and then bring that to the studio. That is why I started my indie label, Wazoo Music Group, so I could have that creative control over my music and be able to give it to my fans on my own terms." Hoey has toured North America throughout the year opening shows for Jeff Beck, Styx, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Bret Michaels. Additionally, he was Camp Counselor at Rock N Roll Fantasy Camp. That session was filmed and produced by Mark Burnett for a reality TV series that is currently airing on VH1 Classic. With a collection of 17 albums and five top 20 Billboard hits, it's clear to see why Gary Hoey is listed in the top 100 greatest guitar players of all time. Whether Hoey plays rock, blues, surf or Christmas, Hoey's command of each style makes his live show one of the most exciting on the circuit today. Utopia is a must have for your collection, available now through www.garyhoey.com , iTunes and Amazon.com. MELOIDC BRIEFS: Friday October 15th 2010 Bob Catley was interviewed Live on Greece's Metalzone radio show with Kostas Purevil Kyriakakis and Helena Mihailidou. Bob talked about the upcoming Magnum album "The Visitation" and also his solo projects. Listeners also had the chance to listen the rough mixes of three songs which will be included in the upcoming album. Download and listen to the album at this location: rapidshare.com/files/425304867/catley.mp3. Ted Nugent is expanding his activities with the U.S. cable network The Outdoors Channel by entering into a multi-year endorsement agreement that will cover not only his current program, Spirit of the Wild, but will extend to all media including the internet and live appearances. The Angels will celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the 'Dark Room' album by performing the entire album at their upcoming Australian shows. John Corabi is doing a benefit gig for Toys For Tots. Says John: "We can help make somebody's Xmas better...I know I can count on you guys! And thank you sooo much to everybody who has sent in a generous donation already!" Friday, December 3 at 8:00pm - December 4 at 3:00am / Drifter's Bar-B-Q (East Nashville) 1008 Woodland St. Nashville, TN. LION'S SHARE TO PERFORM WITH VINNY APPICE: Swedish melodic metal masters Lion's Share will perform 2-3 songs together with legendary drummer Vinny Appice (Heaven & Hell, Black Sabbath, Dio), during his Scandinavian Drum Day appearance on October 30 in Stockholm, Sweden. Lion's Share was the main band during the Ronnie James Dio Tribute Concert that took place on the Sweden Rock Cruise on October 7, together with guests from In Flames, Hardcore Superstar, King Diamond, Stratovarius, Yngwie, Amon Amarth etc. A fan filmed clip of Lion's Share performing the song "Heaven & Hell" can be found on the following location: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yhm7gzTGtiI. Lion's Share's critically acclaimed "Dark Hours" album was released in March 2009 via Blistering Records. The follow-up to 2007's "Emotional Coma" was mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren (Opeth, Symphony X, Paradise Lost, Amon Amarth) and features a guest appearance by Symphony X guitarist Mike Romeo (guest solo on "Behind The Curtain"). WebLinks: www.lionsshare.org. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: 3 new CD Showcases added today - 3 new releases for Avenue Of Allies Music: Fabri Kiareli's F.E.A.S.T, Fire & Perfect View. Check them out now.

 

 

Friday, October 29, 2010

DIAMOND BACK CATALOGUE FOR TRIUMPH FANS: Triumph is one of Canada's greatest Hard Rock bands. With 10 classic albums released between 1976 and 1987, they have left an indelible mark on the history of Hard Rock, Melodic Rock and are nowadays considered among the forefathers of Progressive Metal. Epitomizing the essence of the Power trio sound: Rik Emmett (guitar and vocals), Mike Levine (bass and keyboards) and Gil Moore (drums and vocals) are regarded as virtuoso musicians in their own right and great entertainers thanks to the Triumph concert spectacle that was second to none. Frontiers Records is therefore proud to announce that the official reissues of Triumph's 10 classic albums, in digipak version and with the original tracklistings, will be released on December 3. In The Beginning (1976) Rock and Roll Machine (1977) Just a Game (1979) Progressions of Power (1980) Allied Forces (1981) Never Surrender (1983) Thunder Seven (1984) Stages (Live) (1985) The Sport of Kings (1986) Surveillance (1987). All CDs have been remastered and feature an extensive booklet including lyrics. In addition, Frontiers will issue a very limited collector's edition Box Set entitled "Diamond Collection" which will include all the 10 albums in vinyl replica, and will feature the artwork from the original vinyl edition of the albums. While future plans remain uncertain for the band, and after the recent reunion shows, the time to re-live the impressive legacy of their music has come. This new set of reissues is a real present to the Triumph fans, both old and new, who now have the opportunity to own these timeless masterpieces of Classic Rock. WebLinks: www.triumphmusic.com / www.frontiers.it.   GOTTHARD COMPILATION TRIBUTE FOR STEVE LEE: Gotthard will release a new compilation CD Heaven – Best of Ballads Part 2 in Europe on November 26. Featured are 17 songs including one new track What Am I. Additionally Heaven, Don't Let Me Down, I've Seen An Angel Cry, Have A Little Faith and Falling are featured as acoustic-piano versions. Track Listing: 01. Heaven 02. What Am I * 03. Where Is Love When It's Gone 04. Need To Believe 05. One Life One Soul 06. The Call 07. Don't Let Me Down 08. Nothing Left At All 09. Unconditional Faith 10. Have A Little Faith ** 11. Tears To Cry 12. Everything I Want 13. I've Seen An Angel Cry 14. Tomorrow's Just Begun 15. Falling *** 16. And Then Goodbye 17. Merry Christmas. * previously unreleased ** special piano version / previously unreleased *** special acoustic version / previously unreleased. WebLink: www.blick.ch/unterhaltung/musik/das-ist-das-neue-gotthard-album-159468.   SWEET SOUNDS MUSIC DISTRIBUTION: Sweet Sounds Music & Management have taken many of their artists and signed them to major record deals throughout the years. We also offer world wide digital distribution to artists who are in need of this service. We are proud to be working with Melodic Rock in promoting artists current CDs such as Jimi Jamison/Jim Peterik Extra Moments as well as other artists under the Melodic Rock label. To order "Extra Moments" please visit www.sweetsounds.us. HAIR METAL LIKE IT'S 1989... : Hair Metal band Beautiful Beast throws a rock party like it's 1989. It's freakin' old-fashioned, outdated and over the hill, but you will love the big-haired choruses, spandex-clad licks and the eyeliner-induced attitude. The group is the new project of singer/guitarist Julian Angel. Angel has released two solo albums ("angel-rock.com", 2001; "Choreography Sucks", 2007), was nominated for German Rock Awards as 'Best Guitarist' and (since mid 2009) has been producing music for film, television and commercials. With Beautiful Beast, Julian Angel wants to bring the good times back when bands had long hair, wore fancy clothes and used more reverb in their productions than grunge boy can imagine. "We will look, sound and feel like it's 1989" says Angel "and if anyone calls us out-dated then our mission will be accomplished". Beautiful Beast are currently putting finishing touches to their debut CD Adult Oriented Candy. The album will be mixed by Rolf Munkes (Empire, Razorback) who's currently playing with ex-Black Sabbath Tony Martin and is set for release in January 2011. If you wish that Bon Jovi would still sound like "Bad Medicine", Autograph would churn out another "Blondes In Black Cars" and that Alice Cooper sounded that cool on a "Bed Of Nails", then Beautiful Beast will give their very best to make your wishes come true. Stay tuned... WebLinks: www.facebook.com/pages/Beautiful-Beast/108655302490873 / www.angel-rock.com / www.hairmetalalbum.com. KIPP LENNON TALKS ROGER WATERS: Matt Wardlaw recently had the chance to chat with Kipp Lennon of Venice about their participation in the current Roger Waters tour for the Riverfront Times. The interview is online now in two parts. Part 1: www.riverfronttimes.com/2010-10-27/music/outside-10-the-wall/ Part 2: blogs.riverfronttimes.com/atoz/. Some additional Venice-related chat and a few other tidbits from the Waters tour online at my blog (www.addictedtovinyl.com) within the next week or so... DANNY BOWES TO SING FOR HIS SUPPER: News release from the Thunder camp: "Danny has asked me to let you know that he will be making a guest appearance at Dave "Bucket" Colwell's "Bucket & Co" album launch show at The Purple Turtle in Camden London on November 9. He will sing 3 songs. Dave will be showcasing the songs from his new album, and his band will feature the following musicians: Paul Guerin (Quireboys) - guitar, Benjy Reid (Praying Mantis/Ted Nugent) – Drums, PJ Phillips (Rod Stewart/others) – Bass, Dick Young (ASAP) – Keys & Ronan Kavanagh on Vocals. The irrepressible Spike from the Quireboys will be making a guest vocal appearance, as will Tracie Hunter. Terry Marshall will join in on saxophone, along with Judd Lander on harmonica. More Free Thunder Downloads - As part of an ongoing process of improvements since launching the new site, I'm quite pleased to announce that as of today, six more live Thunder tunes are now available to download free via Music Glue. The songs are: · You'll Still Need A Friend (from Rock City Case #2) · Love Worth Dying For (from The Magnificent Five Do Xmas) · Shake The Tree (from Rock City 6 - The Smell of Snow)· Long Way From Home (from Rock City 8 - The Turkey Strikes Back) · Miracle Man (from A Bit Of Rough Vol. 1) · Everybody Wants Her (from A Bit Of Rough Vol. 2). All can be found on the Live Albums page, or if you can't wait, click here to go straight to Music Glue and get your free tunes. Watch this space peeps, the band may be gone, but the name goes on, there'll be more news soon…" WebLinks: www.thunderonline.com / www.thunderonline-shop.co.uk. PODCAST BRIEFS: Shockwaves Skull Sessions Episode #42: On this episode Skullsessions returning guests Monte Conner (VP of A&R for Roadrunner Records) and legendary Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward, along with newcomer to the Skullsessions and thrash-metal drummer extraordinaire Gene Hoglan (Fear Factory/ Deathclock), join Skullsessions host Bob Nalbandian on this astounding and diverse conversation about modern-metal bands, the art of drumming and the use of dynamics, the metal music business of today, modern recording techniques vs. analog, the great John Bonham and much, much more! WebLink: www.roadrunnerrecords.com/news/Skull-Sessions-Podcast-42-Drummers-22151.aspx. Shockwaves/HardRadio Podcast #47: On this episode host Bob Nalbandian interviews founding guitarist for the classic German heavy metal band Accept, Wolf Hoffman. The two discuss the new Accept album Blood of Nations and some great stories about the past. Also on this episode is a feature interview with legendary Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward. Bill discusses his new projects, the new Black Sabbath Paranoid Classic Albums DVD and he also shares some fond memories of Ronnie James Dio. WebLink: www.hardradio.com/shockwaves/podcasts/podcast47.m4a. PRAYING MANTIS TURN UP THE HEAT FOR HALLOWEEN: Come join the witch hunt and watch the legend burn: www.youtube.com/watch?v=t98PUI3p514. Praying Mantis have just celebrated their 30th Anniversary. The band were a landmark in the founding's of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal era, appearing on the legendary Metal for Muthas 1 Compilation as well as touring alongside legends Iron Maiden and Angel Witch. To celebrate their 30th Anniversary, the band are releasing their awesome never been released new single Witch Hunt as a Free Download for 5 days available via iTunes starting on the 29th October 2010. This will be followed by a Special Limited Edition EP in late November 2010 which will include a number of their classic tracks! Song stream: www.trendxl.de/praying-mantis-witch-hunt. More info: www.praying-mantis.com / www.rockngrowl.com. SITE UPDATES ONLINE TODAY: New Reviews added today - Unruly Child, Nelson and Strangeways. Read the reviews now. CD Showcase has been updated with Nelson's new album to check out. MR-X has been updated with the following new features: - Giuffria - Silk & Steel Outtakes (4 Tracks) - Gudrun Laos - Demos (14 Tracks) - Nick Henderson - Demos (US 88)(10 Tracks) - Asher - Asher EP (US 84)(4 Tracks) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, October 28, 2010

HEARTLAND SET TO TRAVEL THROUGH TIME: Escape Music will release a Heartland Best Of titled Travelling Through Time, set for release January 21, 2011. The set adds one brand new song and five unreleased tracks. Included tracks (in no particular order for now): Search Goes On (New Track), Eyes Wide Open, Elena, When Angels Call, Whatever Gets You Through The Night, One Love, City Of Light, Too Sad To Cry, The Best Yet To Come, Man In The Iron Mask, Magazine, Staring Down The Gun, Where the pieces fall, Wide Open, A Leap In The Dark. Plus 5 Unreleased Bonus tracks: The Fall, I Believe, A Man I'll Never Be, These are The Days, Stranger In This City. The releases: Heartland (1991 A&M) / Wide Open (Escape Music 1999) / III (Escape 1995) / Bridge of Fools (Escape 1997) / Miracles by Design (Escape 1998) / When Angels Call (Escape 1999) / As It Comes (Escape 2000) / Communication Down (Escape 2002) / Move On (Escape 2005) / Mind Your Head (Escape 2007). The Players: Chris Ousey – All Vocals / Steve Morris – Guitars, Bass & Keyboards, Steve Gibson - Drums, Steve Millington - Keyboards. Plus many many more Guests musicians! Chris Ousey's career goes from strength to strength. His first main achievement was with Polygram recording artists "Monroe" with guitarist Gary Sharpe, but Chris never made it to the album as he was snatched in the pre-production stages by John Bonham's son, Jason, for his new band of the moment, Virginia Wolf. The band notched up 250,000 album sales between two records in the form of their self titled debut (produced by Queen's Roger Taylor) and "Push" (produced by Keith Olsen). Heartland was actually formed by Chris with Gary Sharpe and their self titled debut on A & M Records in the early nineties was produced by James "Jimbo" Barton. Barton eventually teamed up with Heartland bassist Phil Brown and the pair went on to produce Trixter, Steve Perry and Queensryche. Heartland originally toured with Mr. Big in support of their debut album. Chris and Gary later got together and put out "Wide Open" in 1994, an album that has been reissued by Escape Music with bonus tracks (ESM 046). Later that year, Escape Music's Khalil Turk introduced Chris to guitarist Steve Morris. Steve is a guitar virtuoso and as experienced as Chris in his own field having recorded two albums with Epic recording artist's "Export" ("Living in fear of the Private Eye" and "Export") as well as touring with their own independent album supporting Slade. Through Export he got to work with Tony Bongiovi and Lance Quinn as well as writing with Bob Halligan Jnr. and Michael Bolton. Finally, Steve became guitarist for Deep Purple vocalist Ian Gillan and recorded three albums in addition to co-writing all the material, before he hooked up with Chris Ousey. The album Heartland III (ESM 002), which was essentially the first release on the then newly formed Escape Music label, has done extremely well since its release in November, 1995 and 12 years later is still very much a popular album. This third outing was considered more commercial than the previous two albums, but nevertheless kept the rock fan's respect as well as gaining a wider audience. In early 1997 the album "Bridge of Fools" (ESM 011) was unleashed, with a return to rock roots and more of a 'band' feel. Along with Chris on lead vocals and Steve on guitars, Say keyboards player Chris Lloyd and original Heartland drummer Steve Gibson joined the line-up, together with bassist Tim Duncan. At this point in time, Escape Music was working on many other projects, one of these being Vancouver based band "Pokerface" (Life's A Gamble ESM 008). This particular outfit is fronted by Darcy Deutsch (Prism) and features guitarist/song writer/producer Kenny "Kaos" Loney. Kenny was to become very much a part of Heartland when Steve was tied up recording "Dream Catcher" with Ian Gillan. Hence, the collaboration between Chris and Kenny, known as "The Distance", culminating in the release of two albums "The Distance" (ESM 022) and "Live and Learn" (ESM 042). Soon after, the production started for "Miracles by Design" (ESM 029), the fifth Heartland album. The album was released in May, 98 and recorded in Parr Street Studio's (Belonging to Genesis's management) using Ken Nelson as sound engineer. As keyboards player Chris Lloyd (Say) had recently been injured in a car crash, Steve Morris had to finish the keyboards before the tapes went to Vancouver for completion. Kenny made his contribution to the album and "Distance" cohorts John Counsel and Dave Hopia added keys and bass respectively. Loverboy/Blackstone man Paul Dean in his own Vancouver studios carried out the mixing. Chris and Steve have both expanded their already sound experience by working with many Escape Music artists in recent years, examples being Change of Heart, Message, Radio Silence and Newman, plus both Foreigner and Boston tributes. Their production and input is clearly evident. Since the release of "Miracles", Heartland have released a sixth (acoustic) album "When Angels Call" (ESM 043), featuring songs old and new as the Heartland wagon train rolled ahead into a new millennium. The Ousey/Morris core remained backed with original drummer Steve Gibson, bass player Tim Hewitt (Boulevard) and keyboards aficionado Steve Millington (10cc). "As It Comes", the seventh album, was a major leap forward by the band in the way that it combined all of their best elements and brought them out in a beautiful manner. This album Rocked!: it was a winner from the start, with production from Steve Morris, mixing by Ray Roper (Stonebolt) and mastering by Craig Wadell. Heartland recorded album number eight, "Communication Down" in 2002 and this saw Heartland going for the throat. This album was a real ripper and the band was now pushing towards a more hard rock sound. Keyboards were supplied by the great Dave Chapman (Change of Heart). "Move On" was the ninth studio album by this great British melodic rock band. It was over two years in the making and was well worth the wait. Steve Morris has also been a very busy man, as well as working with Gillan he has also been working on the Shadowman albums with Steve Overland (FM, The Ladder). Mind Your Head was their 10th studio album no less. The core of the band Ousey and Morris are at their best, like a fine red wine they have matured into the much loved band we hear and love today. Just recently Chris is recording a solo album produced by Mike Slamer & Tommy Denander and is also working with Steve Overland on a new project called Ozone. In the meantime "Travelling Through Time" is an enjoyable way to be reminded of how great they are, with tracks old and new and something you may just never have heard before….this is a milestone achievement from both Escape Music and Heartland, here's to the future of a great working relationship that has stood the test of time. WebLinks: www.Escape-Music.com.   LION MUSIC'S SEVENTH WONDER ESCAPE IN DECEMBER: One of the most anticipated releases in the progressive metal genre is released on December 3. Having built a reputation as one of the most exciting, skilled and enthralling metal acts currently on the scene as well as making a name for themselves with potent live performances Sweden Rock Festival and two shows at the prestigious ProgPower USA, Swedish progressive metal masters Seventh Wonder have raised the bar even further with The Great Escape. This spectacular new album is a continuation of where the band left us last with 2008's Mercy Falls. The band's trademark first class melodies and great choruses are still in focus along with astonishing lead work from all musicians throughout the CD. Yet there is for the first time in Seventh Wonder history a really epic track on the album with the adventurous title track that clocks in at 30 minutes. The story of this track is based on the epic space saga Aniara, written in 1956 by Swedish Nobel Prize winner Harry Martinson. The band even obtained written permission from the author's daughter who holds the copyright, to use phrases from the original book after hearing a few Seventh Wonder tracks and liked them. The rest of the lyrics on the album sees the bands usual wide variety of topics dealing with everyday life and challenges in our modern society, as well as more fictional stories and historical themes. Some other novel musical excursions also appear on the album, while staying true to the Seventh Wonder formula of writing music. Sonically the new album is somewhat drier than its predecessor Mercy Falls and in that sense more reminiscent of the sound on Waiting In The Wings, a more guitar driven sound. The sound is still very clear such that all instruments are clearly audible, as we have come to expect from Seventh Wonder releases with the album being a great reflection of the power the band possess in the live arena. Never an act to stand still the band wanted to try something new this time. The new stuff constitutes about half of the albums playing time and is made up of the aforementioned epic title track on one hand and the slow, almost poppy song Long Way Home on the other, featuring Jenny Karevik on additional vocals and Andreas Blomqvist playing fretless bass, adding to the different feel of the track. If these two tracks represent the new flavour, then the rest of the songs are exactly what you would expect from Seventh Wonder, only newer and better. In the build up to release the band made their first promotional video for the song Alley Cat which scored over 20,000 hits on YouTube within 14 days of upload and at the time of writing has had over 35,000 hits. A clear sign the band are ready to move to the next level in terms of popularity. The Great Escape features some new flavours for the Seventh Wonder fans indeed, but always staying true to the formula that have gained them thousands of fans around the globe; -technically advanced progressive metal with hooks and melodies to die for. Track Listing: 01. Wiseman. 02. Alley Cat. 03. The Angelmaker. 04. King of Whitewater. 05. Long Way Home. 06. Move on Through. 07. The Great Escape. Musicians: Andreas Blomqvist – Bass Johan Liefvendahl – Guitar Tommy Karevik – Vocals Andreas Soderin – Keyboards Johnny Sandin - Drums. WebLinks: www.seventhwonder.nu / www.myspace.com/officialSW.

 

 

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

JSS LIVE AT FIREFEST V ON CD IN DECEMBER: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Jeff Scott Soto's double live album Live at Firefest 2008 on December 3rd 2010. Firefest has become a pivotal event in the Melodic Rock season in Europe. Born from the ashes of the 'Gods of AOR' festival, Firefest started in 2004 and not only did they continue the tradition of Europe's finest Melodic Rock/AOR festivals, but exceeded all previous expectations. Not many bands have the chance to play on 'that' stage nowadays and when Bruce Mee and Kieran Dargan have realized the demand for particular artists to continuing rounding up annually. Jeff Scott Soto was no stranger to 'that' stage. He performed at the Gods festival in 2002 putting up an amazing show that was mirrored with a live CD/DVD. So when the call came to Jeff about the new and continued version of this proven festival, he wasted no time in answering "Of course!". But not all good things come easily… "Unfortunately the date clashed with my commitments touring with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra in the US for their annual Winter Tour" recalls Jeff. "This meant a week of 12 hour rehearsals in the US, leaving on a Friday to land in London on a Saturday morning, bee-line it up to Nottingham for 4 hours in traffic, meet with the band for 30 minutes, as they were wrapping up the ONLY rehearsal we had prior to the show (the last time we had played together was nearly a year prior!), straight to the venue and onstage within the next hour!" But once onstage, the warmth of the crowd and the energy transmitted by the electricity of the event was such that Jeff and his band stormed through our 70 minute set like gangbusters! It was the first time the songs from the "Beautiful Mess" album were performed in Europe and the last show the original JSS band featuring Howie Simon on guitar, Dave Dzialak on drums and Gary Schutt on bass played together. In JSS words: "Here it is in all its glory, a little extra something for you all to help me remember this wonderful night of music and memories". "Live at Firefest 2008" tracklisting includes: CD1: 21st Century; Colour My XTC (prelude); Soul Divine; Drowning; Our Song; DD Solo; Guitar Jam; Mountain; Eyes Of Love; Testify; Broken Man. CD2: Hey; Crazy; Piano Medley (If This Is The End, Nobody Said It Was Easy, 4 U); Gin & Tonic Sky; I'll Be Waiting; Funky Medley (Play That Funky Music, Jungle Boogie, The Roof Is On Fire, Brick House, Shake Your Booty, Kung Fu Fighting, Yo Baby Yo, Macho Man, Ice Ice Baby, Stayin' Alive, Another One Bites The Dust, Walk This Way, My Love, My Friend) The songs "21st Century" and "Eyes Of Love" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio.   xx New Frontiers videos can be viewed now on YouTube. Two Fires (Is It Any Wonder): www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOoqIvJBlOY. And Nelson LST EPK: www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKq8NaSnzOE and You're All I Need Tonight: www.youtube.com/watch?v=19N6YoIx7OI. FIREFEST SIGNING SESSIONS: The following signing session are being held over the Firefest weekend, between band performances. Please note that due to time restrictions, a maximum of TWO items per person will be allowed. The perfect excuse for buy that amazing 36 page full-colour Firefest programme for a risible £5. The signing sessions will take place in The Cellar, which is the room to the left as you exit down the stairs from main room (opposite entrance to The Rig). Friday October 29 9.50pm: Signing Session: Reckless Love (After Crazy Lixx set) Saturday October 30 Doors Open : 12.15 5.10pm: Signing Session: Bangalore Choir (after Shotgun Symphony set) 6.35pm: Signing session: Shotgun Symphony (after Bonfire set) 8.05pm: Signing Session: Bonfire (after Dare set) Sunday October 31 Door Open : 12.15 1.15pm: Signing Session: Stage Dolls (after Grand Design set) 2.30pm: Signing Session: Strangeways (after Newman set) 3.50pm: Signing Session: Steve Newman (after Stage Dolls set) 5.10pm: Signing Session: Jimi Jamison (after Strangeways set) 6.35pm: Signing Session: Nelson (after Pretty Maids set) 8.05pm: Signing Session: Pretty Maids (after Jimi Jamison set) INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine did an exclusive TV Interview with Derek Sherinian from Black Communion Country, Planet X and many others regarding various topics including the new Black Communion Country album, life on the road, Alice Cooper etc. Here's the link where you can see the TV Interview and read the whole script: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=4649&type=1&lang=EN. A recent interview with Joe Satriani is online now at: www.bestofwny.com/nightlife. RockEyez interviews Marcie Free (Unruly Child): www.rockeyez.com. A detailed interview with Two Fires frontman Kevin Chalfant can be found at: www.fabricationshq.com/kevin-chalfant-oct-2010.html. OLIVER WEERS FINISH THE RECORDING OF HIS NEW ALBUM – SET TO BE RELEASED IN EARLY 2011: The charismatic Oliver Weers (German born, currently located in Denmark) is ready to unleash his new album Evil's Back. Many should recall his predecessor "Get Ready" from 2008, which featured such names as Tommy Aldridge (Ozzy, Whitesnake) and Marco Mendoza (Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake). The record was released through out Europe and in 2010 reached Japan. The Japanese magazine Burrn wrote: "He's doubling the charm of authentic Hard rock music…" and the magazine Player states "This really rocks!". Oliver Weers has supported such giants as Mötley Crüe and Whitesnake. Surely "Get Ready" did consolidate it self as a success and manifested Oliver Weers as a great artist. Needless to say Oliver Weers has something to live up to these days, and with "Evil's Back" he is ready to prove to the critics and audiences that he is here to stay. The 2nd album is a response to what is going on in the world today. "With the upcoming Album "Evil's Back" we can expect more depth and heavy tones," Oliver Weers comments. "Not heavy in a "metal" sense but more detailed and exciting. It will take us through a very sensual world of delicacies which open many of our natural emotions. I'm much occupied with our global crisis and witness a change in people's behavior and well-being. We're all in the same boat wherever I go. I think many people around will be able to relate to the words and have their own personal interpretations to the songs." With perfect cut riffs and catchy hook lines, Oliver Weers is perfecting his expression and growing as an artist, but also leaving some room for surprises to the hard rock audiences. The first single "All My Life" is a great indicator of what people can expect from the new Oliver Weers record. The track can be downloaded for free here at Bandcamp.com. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/oliverweersband / www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Oliver-Weers-Official/145636002143151?ref=ts / www.targetrecords.dk.

 

 

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

MELODIC ROCK RECORDS - ARTIST UPDATES: Time for some MelodicRockRecords updates. Firstly I am very excited to announce the signing of cult AOR legends Taxxi for an album of previously unreleased gems. The band sadly split on the verge of releasing their 5th studio album (2nd for MCA), following the inclusion of the amazing Heaven And The Heartaches song on the Secret Of My Success soundtrack. From the same sessions of that song and a couple of other trips to the studio comes a sensation compilation of material that I believe would have been rated classic for its time. The 11 unreleased songs are all of exceptional quality. One track Writing On The Wall was previewed on MRCD5 a year or so back. The remaining songs are just as great! Further details and soundbytes will come in due course. The album will hopefully be released in February 2011.   I am also closing in on another artist deal to bring some more unreleased material from this popular band that should have come out long before now. Never too late though! The Jimi Jamison & Jim Peterik release Extra Moments has sold out of it's 2000 unit run, so I have no more stock here to sell. However, a number of the usual melodic rock retailers still have stock, including AOR Heaven, NEH Records, Sweet Sounds Music and Music Buy Mail to name a few. Fenrik Lane's debut album 317 has been gathering some favourable reviews. Melodic.net calls it "melodic rock even if it's performed in a more modern way...". Nick van der Meulen: "The band sounds gloriously like a mix of a more melodic version of Coldplay, Foo Fighters, Live and U2. Very easy listening, the band produces upbeat, light, melodic rock that any rock fan would listen to and enjoy." HardRock Haven says: "Not only are they strong musicians, but they write stellar songs. Even the production efforts on 317 are pristine. Fenrik Lane is all about potential right now, but potentially, these guys should make a lot of waves in 2010 … and beyond." You can purchase the album via all good melodic outlets or direct from myself at: www.melodicrockrecords.com/store.   Out next week are the next two MRR releases - another two debut albums! First Swedish rockers Degreed Life, Love, Loss. The band mixes classic and modern with a really sharp production and some big melodic anthems. The first 6 samples can be heard at: www.melodicrockrecords.com/degreed-lifeloveloss.html. And right now I'd like to present samples of the other 6 tracks on the album. Please check them out, I don't think there is a dud track to be found! Download: 07) Human Being 08) Colour Me 09) Catch The Feeling 10) Keep Me Alive 11) My Fall 12) By Your Side. Once again, you can purchase the album via all good melodic outlets (as of next week) or direct from myself at: www.melodicrockrecords.com/store (shipping this week). All I Know's debut album Vanity Kills is also out Monday, with pre-sales shipping this week. Remember that all direct orders via the MRR store will receive 2 bonus tracks as free download. Full details and audio samples at: www.melodicrockrecords.com/alliknow-vanitykills.html.   xx Violet Sun will be released November 19 and Taxxi in February. Beyond that is wait and see at this point, but I have some additional plans brewing. I am looking for additional distribution opportunities for the label and will continue working these releases for some time to come. I believe their quality deserves continual promotion and hopefully the good word will continue to spread. As far as the MelodicRock Compilation series - MRCD7 is out now and ready to ship on demand. the 2CD set features a number of exclusive tracks and there are plenty here to shift, so please consider supporting this site and the artists involved by purchasing a copy now.   MRCD8 and MRDVD1 are both on hold for the time being due to financial constraints placed upon me by the ever weakening value of the US Dollar. Basically it just costs too much to manufacture and ship these sets out at current prices. So I'll work through the current period promoting the MRR releases and see where we are at in the new year. And that folks....is about that! Thanks for the support of the label and the site and stay tuned for further updates.   TOBY HITCHCOCK RELEASE SET TO IMPRESS: As most will be aware, Pride Of Lions vocalist Toby Hitchcock has a solo project coming out very soon. Toby hooked up with Eclipse/W.E.T. mastermind Erik Martensson to create a killer melodic rock record that steps outside the POL sound. And I'm pleased to say that this record looks like delivering just as expected. I've heard 5 tracks to date and love them all, so that's a great sign of what the finished album promises. The sound mixes Toby's big booming voice and Erik's own unique sound for a record that is going to appeal to all fans of Price Of Lions, Eclipse and W.E.T. A brief description of the tracks I have heard: A Different Drum - A dramatic style hard rocker that would definitely sound at home on the W.E.T. release. Great chorus and some big harmony vocals. I Should Have Said - Definitely has that hard edge Eclipse sound and builds intensity into a huge chorus and some tasty guitar soloing. Strong uptempo melodic rocker. Let Go - Has that lush AOR sound that featured on W.E.T. with keyboard fills and an intense vocal from Toby that sees him stretching his voice. Strong Enough - This has a great sound...a real urgency to it. A big anthemic AOR number with a fast tempo and lots of backing vocals. This Is The Moment - A darker and heavier side to Toby and Erik here with some major keyboard parts. A dramatic chorus and somewhat lighter verse. Definitely a touch of POL here and an orchestral double kick-drum finish! Release news and audio samples to follow as soon as possible....but soon!   ESCAPE MUSIC ANNOUNCE SOPHMORE APPEARANCE OF NOTHING CD: Escape Music are pleased to announce their next scheduled release Appearance of Nothing and their album All Gods are Gone, due out January 21, 2011. Track List: 1- The Mirror's Eyes 6.03 2- 2nd God 6.18 3- Sweet Enemy 9.00 4- Destination 9.10 5- The Call of Eve 5.17 6- …I said Silence 7.31 7- The Rise and Fall of Nothing 4.56. The Band: Pat Gerber: Vocals / Guitar, Omar Cuna: Vocals / Bass Peter Berger: Lead Guitar, Marc Petralito: Keyboards, Yves Lüthi: Drums. Produced by Markus Teske, Bazement Studio & Marc Petralito. Mixed & Mastered by Markus Teske. With Special guests appearance: "The Mirror's Eyes", "... I said Silence" & "2nd God" death Vocals by Dan Swanö (ex Edge of Sanity/ Nightingale). "Sweet Enemy" Lead Vocals by Devon Graves (ex Psychotic Waltz/Deadsoul Tribe) Download this full length preview: The Call Of Eve. Swiss band Appearance of Nothing was founded 2004 by Pat Gerber (Vocals/Guitar), Yves Lüthi (Drums), Omar Cuna (Bass) and Marc Petralito (Keys). After a short experimental period the band began to write their own songs. Since then Pat and Omar both share the part as lead singers which adds additional variety to the songs. In 2005 the first self-produced demo Behind Closed Doors was released, which gained a lot of positive reaction, so the band decided, together with their new lead guitarist Peter Berger, to take a big step forward. In 2008 Wasted Time (ESM174) was released and the band engaged Markus Teske as producer who worked together with famous bands such as "Vanden Plas" and "Symphony X". What we have with this highly acclaimed release is a very symphonic and highly enjoyable sound that brings together the best elements of Dream Theater, Symphony X, Saga and Vanden Plas. Arrangements are grand and lush with powerful keyboard passages and strutting guitars, all backed with a great rhythm section. In the years 2008/2009 Appearance of Nothing concentrated on playing headliner shows, as well as shows as supporting act of Gurd and at the Swiss RAW festival in front of 4000 people on the main stage. It's 2010 and Appearance of Nothing have a new recording: All Gods are Gone. The album has a considerably more aggressive and more modern attitude. Not only the sound but also the collaboration with vocalist Dan Swanö (ex Edge of Sanity/Nightingale). The first track Mirrors Eyes is actually a follow up to the song Man in the Mirror from Wasted Time. This is one seriously good recording, although with a more modern approach this new release should see the band attracting new fans as well as keeping their current fan base more than happy. A truly epic release. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   xx BEGGARS & THIEVES DEBUT EP AT FIREFEST - DOWNLOAD TRACK HERE: Following up on the Beggars & Thieves EP news from yesterday...Stone Alone Firefest collectors EP will be a limited edition (500 units) EP available at Firefest this coming weekend. Featuring the lead new track Stone Alone - Mixed and Mastered by Kevin Churko (Ozzy Osbourne, Hinder). The band's in-progress album is apparently almost ready and should be mixed and mastered in the beginning of the 2011. Right now though....the band have given permission to offer the brand new song for free download - right here. Download: Beggars & Thieves - Stone Alone.   GOTTHARD SET CHART RECORD IN SWITZERLAND: The tragic death of Gotthard singer Steve Lee has triggered a record demand for the band's albums. For the first time in the history of the Swiss charts, 13 albums from one band are among the top 100 at the same time – and that means all albums that Gotthard have released so far in their career. Also in the Swiss single charts, the loyalty and sympathy after Steve Lee's death are very apparent. The single "Heaven" even made it to the top of the charts with "One Life One Soul" at number four. In total, nine single are in the charts. In the album charts it is "Need To Believe" and "One Team – One Spirit" that have the highest positions, numbers two and three respectively. Just last Sunday, the official funeral service for the Gotthard front man was held on top of the Gotthard mountain. In spite of snow and winter temperatures, more than 3000 people came to pay their last respect to Steve Lee. Among them were all the band members, Lee' s girlfriend Brigitte Voss-Balzarini and his sister as well as all the people involved with Gotthard such as management, technicians, crew, label and promotion. In a memorial tent, mourners could place candles and flowers and say goodbye to Steve, to the sound of Native Indian music – the same music that Steve avidly listened to while visiting a camp of the Indian Shoshone tribe just one day before his death in the USA. At 13.00 the eulogy was held in Italian and German by two monks of the Gotthard hospice. In Swiss history the term "Gotthard" has always stood for the uniting of the south, north, east and west and therefore would have a very special status for all, the monks said. Yet it also represents "onward journey" and "stopover". The speech was closed reverently with the song "One Life One Soul" in a duet with opera diva Montserrat Caballé. Gotthard are one of the most successful groups Switzerland has ever had. Several platinum, double and triple platinum awards enrich their history. 216 times, the Rock group has appeared in the single charts and a total of 378 times in the album charts. Twelve Gotthard albums have topped the charts. The single "Heaven" is only the second song in Swiss music history to achieve a second number 1 entry after being out of the charts for a while.   INTRODUCING FAITHEALER: Faithealer is Ivan Gunn (ex-Balance Of Power/Pride) & Jason Marks (ex-Forever/S.I.N). Formed from the ashes of Europe's bright AOR hopes Pride and S.I.N, this is a meeting of melodic minds with a plan to write the best most emotional melodic songs write with no agenda and what comes from the heart.......the result Welcome To The Edge Of The World. Featuring guests Chris Green and Mat Mitchell (ex-Pride/Furyon) and Rick Hunter Martinez, this is an album full of hooks melody and emotion. Faithealer are proud to announce the release of their debut album through King Records in Japan on OCT 27 and that they have signed a sub publishing deal with Fuji Pacific. Also Faithealer are proud to announce that they have been selected to be on the cover mount CD of the first ever issue of Classic Rock's new publication Classic AOR in November. And finally proud to announce they have signed a worldwide digital release agreement with The Orchard for the new album meaning you will be able to down load from the Rest Of World version of this album contains a bonus track and the album is released in November and available from www.destinyrocks.com. Samples of the album can be heard at: www.myspace.com/faithealerocks. Contact the band at: faithealerocks@hotmail.co.uk. Faithealer audio samples can be heard via this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIidVgKvzU0. The band will also be distributed via Wishing Well Entertainment in the USA.   PROG ROCK SUPERGROUP TRANSATLANTIC LAUNCHES WHIRLWIND TOUR 2010 DVD: Music fans were surprised and elated in 2009 when prog rock supergroup Transatlantic announced they were reforming for a new album. The Whirlwind went on to be their best-selling album, entering mainstream charts in the US, Germany and Netherlands. Ten years earlier, four of progressive rock's finest joined together to form the supergroup, Transatlantic: Neal Morse (lead vocals, guitar, keyboard), Roine Stolt (lead vocals, guitar), Mike Portnoy (drums, vocals), and Pete Trewavas (bass, vocals). Their two seminal albums, tours and DVDs redefined prog's artistic and commercial possibilities with a combination of modern and traditional prog, classic pop sensibilities, and mind-blowing musicianship. The Whirlwind tour was the group's largest, covering both sides of the Atlantic across 11 countries. With the addition of Pain of Salvation's Daniel Gildenlow on guitar and keyboards, it was also their most musically powerful. On May 21, 2010, at Shepherd's Bush Empire in London, the cameras were rolling. The concert featured the entire Whirlwind album performed exactly as on the studio recording. But that's just the beginning. For the next two and half hours, Transatlantic performed nearly every song they've ever recorded, along with some surprises. The audio recorded at the show was later mixed by the band's own Roine Stolt, ensuring a genuine presentation of the music from that night. The show doesn't end, though, with the fading echoes of the final note. Backstage, in and around cities throughout Europe, the cameras accompanied Mike, Neal, Roine and Pete on their journey. Uncensored experiences and candid moments reveal the good, the bad, and the unexpected of life on the road. Also included is the band's encore from the final night of their tour, a headlining spot at the UK's High Voltage Festival. For the last song, they performed the Genesis classic, Return of the Giant Hogweed, joined onstage by original Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett. Travel from the last decade of prog to today and from the backstage to the soundstage. Capturing a thousand timeless moments, Whirlwind Tour 2010: Live at Shepherd's Bush London captures musicians and audience uniting to create an electrifying musical experience. Join Transatlantic as they unleash their very best as you've never seen, heard or imagined them. DVD 1 (147 minutes) 1. The Whirlwind 2. All of the Above 3. We All Need Some Light 4. Duel With the Devil. DVD 2 (160 minutes) 1. Bridge Across Forever 2. Stranger in Your Soul 3. Documentary 4. Band Interview 5. Return of the Giant Hogweed (w/ Steve Hacket) CD Release - Audio CD 1 1. The Whirlwind (79:52) Audio CD 2 1. All of the Above (30:19) 2. We All Need Some Light (8:40) 3. Duel with the Devil (28:31) Audio CD 3 1. Bridge Across Forever (6:03) 2. Stranger in Your Soul (30:00). WebLinks: www.transatlanticweb.com / www.myspace.com/transatlanticprog / www.facebook.com/transatlanticmusic. RELEASE PARTY FOR DANGER AVENUE ­ LONG OVERDUE: The time has come! November 12th is the date when Gothenburg band Danger Avenue will release their album Long Overdue. This will be celebrated with a huge release party at Valand in their home town, and with the help from special guests, fellow Gothenburg rockers Siphon Fuel, and the musician store Jam, we'll make this night a special one! No fan of classic, 70´s and 80´s inspired rock can afford to miss this! The album "Long Overdue" is a 12 track statement that shows what's been missing for too long in the music of today: Really good and powerful songs, and a dynamic sound with depth. The album is recorded with, mixed and produced by Roberth Olausson (Hardcore Superstar, Evergrey among others). Mastering is done by the highly praised, and incredibly experienced Dragan Tanaskovic. For only 100 SEK, you get entrance to Valand, a full-on concert with Danger Avenue + special guest, and you also get a copy of the album "Long Overdue"! For free tickets or press contact, please contact: info@dangeravenue.com / www.myspace.com/dangeravenuerock. SWEDISH BRIEFS: The Swedish melodic Supermetal band 7days are back with their long awaited 2nd album - Into Forever. 7DAYS is a must album for all lovers of Avantasia, Symphony X & Ayreon. Featuring a killer line-up with members from Therion, Divinefire, Harmony, Dark Water, Murder Of My Sweet, Royal Hunt, Rob Rock & Narnia. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/7daysmetal / www.liljegren-records.com. ReinXeed - The Swedish melodic power metal band are back with their 3rd album Majestic. The album scored 88 points in Burrn! Magazine in Japan and reached top positions on Japanese Metal Charts for several months. The 22 year young Tommy Johansson guitar & vocal hero in ReinXeed & Golden Resurrection reaching new fans all over the world with his exceptional guitar playing and vocal talents. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/reinxeednorth / www.liljegren-records.com. Johnny Lennartsson Group - The New Classic Rock And Power House Trio Sensation From Sweden. Feel The Fire is the title of the debut album and what you get is melodic classic rock in the finest way. The musical influences are Michael Landau, Jeff Beck, Joe Bonamassa, Black County Communion & Steve Lukather. WebLink: www.myspace.com/johnnylennartssongroup. CLASSIC ROCKPALAST PERFORMANCES AVAILABLE TODAY ON MIG MUSIC: Rockpalast is a world renowned German television series that began airing in 1974 on the German television station Westdeutscher Rundfunk (WDR). Translated into English as "Rock Palace" the television series still airs today. Over the years countless artists and bands have appeared on the show and now MIG is pleased to present four memorable performances from some of Rock's most iconic bands and musicians. All of the recordings will be available in CD and DVD format, with the exception of the John Cale release which has a Double CD, Double DVD and an LP version and the Roger Mcguinn release which is available only on DVD. In conjunction with the release of these amazing archival performances, AOL Music and Spinner.com are presenting Full Album Listening Parties of the Rockpalast Performances from John Cale & Band, UFO, and Michael Schenker Group. John Cale & Band can be heard at the following links: music.aol.com/new-releases-full-cds/#/21 / www.spinner.com/new-releases#/24. UFO can be heard at: music.aol.com/new-releases-full-cds/#/22. Michael Schenker Group can be heard at: music.aol.com/new-releases-full-cds/#/23. DVDs can be found at: www.migmusic.de. LEGENDARY US METAL BAND SIGNS DEAL WITH SPV / STEAMHAMMER - NEW ALBUM MARCH 2011: Metal masters Vicious Rumors have just signed with German label SPV/Steamhammer for the world except Japan. The new CD Razorback Killer will be released world wide March 2011. The new Album is Vicious Rumors at their very best! Vicious Rumors mastermind Geoff Thorpe has put together 10 power tracks full of killer guitars and melody's. Larry Howe is the thunder hammer on drums, new vocalist Brian Allen has a wicked high range and power while Kiyoshi Morgan shredding on guitar and Stephen Goodwin pounding on bass. Songs like "Razorback Blade" is a speed metal anthem, "Deal with the Devil" and "All I Want Is You" are classic Vicious Rumors!! The thrashing "Axe to Grind" and "Murderball" is pure power. Produced by Geoff Thorpe for GTM World Wide and Juan Urteaga of Trident Studios ( Machine Head, Ted Nugent, Night Ranger,) "Razorback Killer" is a real metal classic! Vicious Rumors is very excited to have Mark McGee return to the band on guitar for 2 songs in a very special re-union on this new CD . Geoff and Mark trading solos and doing harmonys in the studio just like the old days! Vicious Rumors was honored to have Brad Gillis (Night Ranger, Ozzy) make a guest appearance for a blazing solo. Just when you thought you were safe Eric Peterson (Testament) records a wicked harmony and shred solo on the killer track "Murderball". With these songs and the new "old" logo Vicious Rumors keeps the ball rolling! Vicious Rumors is currently on tour all over Europe. They will co- headline the Keep It true Festival in Germany in April 2011 with a "Tribute to Carl Albert" featuring Carl Albert`s son Kevin on vocals with former members Mark McGee and Tommy Sisco. Vicious Rumors "European-Tour 2010" 29.10. D-Uelsen - UJT 30.10. D-Hannover - Metal Shock Festival 02.11. F-Paris - Le Klub 04.11. E-Gijon - Sala Otto 05.11. E-Vigo - La Fabrica de Chocolate 06.11. PT-Lisbon - Side B 07.11. E-Madrid - Ritmo y Compas 11.11. NL-Eindhoven - The Rambler 12.11. CH-Uster - Rock City 13.11. B-Antwerp - De Rots WebLinks: www.viciousrumors.com / www.spv.de. OZZY OSBOURNE CONFIRMED FOR SWEDEN ROCK FESTIVAL: There are famous artists, there are legendary ones - and there is Ozzy Osbourne. Not only is "the Prince of Darkness" one of hard rock's most iconic characters, he has also remained at the very top of his career for longer than any of his peers. We are proud to announce that Ozzy Osbourne will make his only Swedish appearance in 2011 at Sweden Rock Festival! His career took off on Friday the 13th of February 1970, with the release of Black Sabbath's eponymous debut - the Big bang in heavy music history. Until 1978 the band would release another seven albums featuring Ozzy's uniquely scornful voice over ominous Doomsday riffs, in countless immortal tracks like "Paranoid", "Iron man" and "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath". 1980 saw the arrival of the singer's solo debut "Blizzard of Ozz", another landmark release establishing the characteristic Ozzy sound with tough riffs combined with strong melodies. In the following years Ozzy's status has grown to Olympic proportions. Events like the reunion of the original Black Sabbath and the controversial reality show "The Osbournes" have been commercial triumphs. However, his prime achievements remain the albums themselves. In 2010, "Scream" materialized as Ozzy's tenth studio release, featuring the single "Let me hear you scream". The latter is the newest addition to an array of classic songs including "Crazy train", "Mr. Crowley", "Bark at the moon" and "No more tears". To name but a few. His recent show at the Stockholm Globe Arena sold out completely soon after the tickets were released and was unanimously hailed by the press, proving Ozzy is as pivotal as ever to the world's rock and metal scene. It is this heavy metal titan that in June 2011 makes his very first appearance at Sweden Rock Festival. And his mind is setting on putting on a stellar show. As Ozzy himself puts it in an upcoming Sweden Rock Magazine cover story: "I would pay to see my fans. I love meeting them and making sure they have a good time." SIGNED GUITARS & DRUM HEADS FOR SILENT AUCTION: What do Rob Zombie, Paul Gilbert, Steve Vai, Alice Cooper, Marky Ramone and so many other rockstars have in common? They all love animals and have signed guitars and more to help support the upcoming concert Humanity Thru Music and the building of a No-Kill animal sanctuary. Right now you can get your ticket for $35 as a special Halloween price – Just Paypal to donations@furfeather.org and get yours now! Come wag your tail and rock-out in Hollywood on November, 6 at the First Annual "Humanity Thru Music" concert and paw-sta dinner in benefit of Fur & Feather Animal Sanctuary a 501c3 dedicated to much needed animal welfare in California. Come help save the lives of our homeless animals from having to enter shelters and face needless euthanasia by supporting the building of Southern California's first full NO-KILL animal sanctuary, medical and educational center. The night will dazzle you with bright lights and stars as you cross the green carpet to the corridor off of Hollywood Blvd for fun, food and a paw-stompin concert with Platinum super-group players from Yes & Toto – Yoso - playing hits from both bands Roundabout, Owner Of A Lonely Heart, Rosanna, Hold The Line and so much more! Join celebrities and rockstars at the vegetarian Paw-sta buffet bar then trot over and chase your tail around one of the largest silent auctions full of the best treats, including guitars signed by Steve Vai, Paul Gilbert, George Lynch, drum heads signed by Marky Ramone, weekend trips, Hi-end spa weekends, signed sports memorabilia, autographed Star Wars memorabilia, Two Brunches at the House of Blues, Tickets from the LA Philharmonic (winter season) and Hollywood Bowl tickets (summer season), a Two Night Stay at the beautiful Carmel By the Sea, Cypress Inn - part owned by Doris Day and pet friendly. The list of auction items is endless and all proceeds go to Fur & Feather Animal Sanctuary to further their goal of building in 2011. Nights Schedule: Will-call opens at 5:30 pm to check in and purchase tickets with the Green Carpet and silent auction starting at 6:00 pm. The vegetarian paw-sta buffet starts at 6:30 pm with a martini and wine bar. 8:00 pm is your cue to go rock-out to classic rock in the amphitheater for the concert that will start at 8:30pm. The concert will end about 11:00 pm in which the guests will return to the corridor for the last chance to bid on the silent auction before the winners are announced. At this time, coffee and dessert will be served. Online Advance Sale: General Admission seats, dinner and dog tags (festival seating) is $50, VIP seating, dinner, dog tags and commemorative book is $100 (guaranteed first 5 rows), $195 VIP Backstage (First 3 center rows seating guaranteed | VIP Lounge | After-Show Meet & Greet | Special Yoso Gift bag), Platinum group seating for 10 includes all above* $1250. To Buy Tickets – Go to www.ticketfly.com, Paypal at www.furfeather.org OR Paypal direct with ticket seat-type and quantities to music@furfeather.org – You will be provided with a confirmation page you will bring to will-call night of the event. Will-call starts @ 5:30 pm sharp! WALK-UP (day of show): General Admission seats, dinner and dog tags (festival seating) is $50, VIP seating, dinner, dog tags and commemorative book is $100 (guaranteed first 5 rows), VIP Backstage not available. CASTAWAY RECORDS TO RELEASE "THESE BANDS ROCK - A COMPILATION OF NEW AND UPCOMING BANDS": Castaway Records is a new European record label. We are licensing and promoting our products to countries worldwide as well as co-operating with distributors in all important countries. Castaway Records is now releasing a compilation entitled "These Band Rock! - A Compilation of new and upcoming bands". The compilation is released to promote new and upcoming bands and artists to the European rock scene and to help them to get their music out to the masses. The compilation was already promoted this summer at various summer festivals around Europe as well as will now be sent to all major online mags, rock/metal radios, rock clubs, printed mags etc. Tracklist: Asylum Pyre - Laughing With The Stars, Neuronia - White Mouse, Bones Of Freedom - Honey Bee, Disharmony - Cosmic Anarchy, Oriz - Rocktree, Dimmz - So Easy, Aim Deep - Disbelieve, Shades Of Crimson - Nightfall, The Indigo - I´m So Alive, Loud At Least - Drive Any Road, Martyr - Circle Of 8, Cross Section - Don´t Have To Be Here, Everlasting Blood - When The Heavens Fall. WebLink: www.castawayrecords.com. METALLICA OFFER UP NEW LIVE EP: Metallica posted this news update online: "If you picked up "Six Feet Down Under," you may have noticed the words "EP One" on the package and were quick to ask "what the hell does that mean?" Well, drum roll please . . . you guessed it, there is indeed an "EP Two" in the works . . . very clever clue, don't ya think? Look for "Six Feet Down Under Part II" in Australian and New Zealand stores, along with metallica.com and metclub.com, on November 12. In our quest to have something unique and special to celebrate our long overdue visit to this part of the world, as well as the final stretch of World Magnetic tour dates, we wanted to release some live recordings from previous tours on EP # 1 and a companion EP from the current 2010 tour. The first time around we called on you to send us your bootleg recordings from those earlier tour dates going back as far as 1989 and we pulled a track list together from the submissions. Once again we went to you, the 'Tallica faithful, for help and polled Fan Club members from Australia and New Zealand to come up with their top eight picks from all the 41 songs played during the early part of the Trans-Tasman run this year. We played 'em . . . you picked 'em . . . here it is: Blackened, recorded live on October 16, 2010, at the Brisbane Entertainment Center, in Brisbane, Australia, Ride The Lightning, recorded live on October 14, 2010, at the Vector Arena, in Auckland, New Zealand, The Four Horsemen, recorded live on September 18, 2010, at the Acer Arena, in Sydney, Australia, Welcome Home (Sanitarium), recorded live on September 15, 2010, at the Rod Laver Arena, in Melbourne, Australia, Master Of Puppets, recorded live on October 16, 2010, at the Brisbane Entertainment Center, in Brisbane, Australia, ...And Justice For All, recorded live on October 18, 2010, at the Brisbane Entertainment Center, in Brisbane, Australia, Fade To Black, recorded live on September 18, 2010, at the Acer Arena, in Sydney, Australia, Damage, Inc., recorded live on September 22, 2010, at the CBS Canterbury Arena, in Christchurch, New Zealand.   SUPERTRAMP LIVE SHOWS FOR SALE: In September Supertramp started their 70-10 Tour through Europe, celebrating forty years since the release of their first album, "Supertramp", in 1970. Joining Supertramp's founder, lead singer and keyboardist, Rick Davies, are legendary Supertramp members John Anthony Helliwell, saxophones and woodwinds, and Bob Siebenberg, drums. Veterans of past Supertramp tours, Jesse Siebenberg, lead vocals, guitars and percussion, Cliff Hugo, bass, Carl Verheyen, guitars, and Lee Thornburg, horns, will round out the lineup. Simfy live features high-quality live audio recordings of the concerts of Supertramp's 70-10 Tour. The live recordings are available as Supertramp 70-10 Live-CD-Set or as MP3 download. During the two hour show the band performs a plethora of classics from their forty year history, including Bloody Well Right, Dreamer, From Now On, Goodbye Stranger, The Logical Song, Rudy and many, many more. More details at: www.simfy.com.

 

 

MelodicRock Records is proud to announce the release of yet another debut album - this time Italian symphonic metal outfit Violet Sun. Their debut album Loneliness In Supremacy will be released November 19, with pre-orders shipping November 12.     The core of Violet Sun goes back to 2005, when Dario Grillo (Platens, Thy Majesty) heard the voice of Alessandra Amata, a singer of great talent of Catania, well known in the Sicilian musical circle. Dario had some interesting unpublished work that proposed to her. Alessandra immediately showed herself to be very enthusiastic about the project and so in a few months they began to work to the drawing up and the realization of the songs contained in the debut album. Loneliness In Supremacy is not a normal Metal album, but a real blended work in which the styles such as classic and opera music, heavy metal, oriental, progressive and AOR blend perfectly together to create powerful and memorable melodies. This record places itself midway between a real Metal Opera (Avantasia, Aina, Nostradamus) and bands as Nightwish, Epica, Kamelot. MelodicRock Records owner Andrew McNeice: "There is nothing harder in this scene than breaking in a new name, but just as my other signings have impressed, so to did Violet Sun. One listen and I called upon Dario to sign up. I wasn't looking for a heavier project to add to the label, but taking each release on its merits, this just screamed out for attention. The production is simply world class. Intense themes, immense arrangements and the power and emotion of the material appealed to me instantly. I am very happy to have such a strong group of artists involved in the label and Violet Sun only enhances that."   The album comes with 12 powerful tracks and a deluxe 16 page booklet featuring the outstanding artwork of CadiesArt (Degreed). Track Listing (and audio samples): 01) Dust In The Wind 02) Inside Out 03) Midnight [Instrumental] 04) When The Lights Go Down 05) Cross The Line 06) Falling In Love 07) Where Is My Way Home 08) My Flame Still Burns 09) Pray On The Grave 10) Break Your Chains 11) Synthetic Pleasures 12) Loneliness In Supremacy [Instrumental] WebLinks: www.myspace.com/violetsunofficial / www.facebook.com/pages/Violet-Sun/219691939228 / www.melodicrockrecords.com     xxxx Some early reviews of "Loneliness In Supremacy": "Right from the start, there was this cherry blossom fragrance that heralded the special character of the album. Special because I knew this journey would take several attentive listens before it would sink in. Special because there is so much going on here, any description will be inaccurate. After his break with Thy Majestie, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Dario Grillo kept himself busy with his new female-fronted band Violet Sun. Loneliness In Supremacy, the band's elegant debut, makes you dig through layers and layers of symphonic edges that draw up the blueprint, enough progressive hooks to prevent the album from being easy digestible, and even a few gothic abstracts which give color to the darker sides of the album. Clearly Grillo had still many more bright ideas up his sleeve, as Loneliness In Supremacy abounds in creativity, variety and versatility. Loneliness In Supremacy is a still-evolving journey. At one point I thought I had reached the heart of the album, where seemingly unrelated emotions are woven together. But then that thrill was gone as quickly as it had come, entangled in debris, and I knew I had to start all over again. A real tease indeed." - www.metalstorm.net/pub/review.php?review_id=8061. "Violet Sun's music has its core in Symphonic Power Metal, with a wide variety of influences ranging from Gothic Metal and Progressive Metal. We like how the futuristic sounding keyboards enrich the music and make it sound very different than most bands (a lot like Anthropia). The overall Symphonic atmosphere of the album is top notch and creates a very unique world to "Loneliness in Supremacy". The female vocals feature a nice range and a very unique sound to them, allowing them to have (yet another) identifier to their own sound. The choir sections are just more icing on top of the cake, and just and grandiosity to the songs where they are used. "Loneliness in Supremacy" is a majestic release that has all the right elements and the correct sound to get worldwide acclaim. With the use of Sax, oriental instruments, a full on opera choir, and mastering by Mika Jussila, the band means serious business. If you like Power Metal, Progressive Metal, or Gothic Metal, give Violet Sun a try you will not regret it." - www.infernalmasquerade.com/?q=reviews%2F001071-violet-sun-%E2%80%93-loneliness-supremacy-2010.

 

 

Monday, October 25, 2010

THE OUTFIELD CLOSER TO NEW ALBUM: Power pop-rock trio The Outfield, who scored big in the 1980s with a series of venerable Top 40 hits, including "Your Love," "Say It Isn't So" and "Since You've Been Gone," have been working diligently in a London studio finishing up several new tracks that are expected to make the setlist for the band's new album. Guitarist and chief songwriter John Spinks is said to have hit an impressive creative streak— penning a prolific number of new songs over the last year and a half that the band hopes will resonate with long-time fans as well as the three-million-plus people who purchased their multi-platinum debut album Play Deep. Early previews of their studio work indicate that the band is on course to release a record of stellar new material with the same melodic pop/rock sound and sensibilities of their earlier records. The return of original drummer Alan Jackman is being credited with sparking a vitality in the studio that can be heard in the most recent recording sessions. The songs represent a truly inspired and productive reunion for the trio, who haven't worked collaboratively since 1989 when Jackman left the band after recording the Voices of Babylon album. And from the still-growing collection of new material, the band has recently identified a sonic focus for their next album and begun a challenging process of elimination to decide which songs will make the cut. Led by the highly infectious "California Sun," which has been tentatively scheduled for release as a single in January 2011, the other tracks said to be contenders for the album all share a reverberating energy that has become a hallmark of the band's distinctive and dynamic sound. All the components that fans have come to expect from The Outfield are there— Tony Lewis' octave-soaring voice, Spinks' driving power-chords, Jackman's skillful percussion and those lush vocal harmonies that are rivaled only by recordings of Lennon and McCartney. Collectively, these elements are probably most evident on the songs "A Long, Long Time Ago" and "Who Would You Be," which offer a perfect blend of pop and rock that recalls the best of the band's Bangin' repertoire. Perhaps even more irresistible is a tune called "New York City" and its clever, circular melody that systematically steers the song as if it were locked on cruise control. In that regard, it shares a euphonic kinship with "California Sun" as another song that will be audibly stuck in your head for days. Nevertheless, each of the new tracks has a contemporary sound that is quintessential Outfield mixed with slight tinges of Spinks' musical influences woven into them. "In Your Company" and "Sandman," for example, immediately evoke sonic comparisons to the stylings of another popular 80s rock trio, The Police. And much like the demo for "Baby, I'm Crazy" that was previously featured on The Outfield's website this year, the song "Mr. Paranoia" features an edgier guitar sound and shades of Led Zeppelin that demand you play it at a louder volume for full effect. If the new material reflects the direction that The Outfield is taking with this new album, the band is enthusiastically demonstrating— intentionally or unwittingly perhaps— that they were never destined to be a nostalgia act. And despite having achieved enormous success with their debut album 25 years ago, there clearly isn't any desire to record "Play Deep, Part 2" or to release an album of subpar songs simply for the sake of touring on the hits again. Instead, The Outfield appear to have built upon their own unique brand of pop/rock foundation to craft an entirely new set of songs that seem fresh and spirited, yet instantly classic at the same time. For more information on The Outfield, visit the band's official website at www.theoutfield.com. Band management added a little extra info for me: "Since Alan has come back into the fold, the band decided to basically re-start from scratch in the studio. We now are set to release the album in April/May 2011 with some exciting new projects with Sony that will be released in January of 2011. We will start with a new Best Of The Outfield - Playlist Series (Sony) which will include a new track from the upcoming album California Sun." INXS RE-CUT ORIGINALS TO CREATE NEW SIN: Inxs have revealed November 8 as the release date for their hotly-anticipated all-star Greatest Hits album, Original Sin. Two years in the making, Original Sin revisits all their best-loved tracks with the help of stars like Ben Harper, Rob Thomas, Tricky and on-again, off-again singer JD Fortune, who reinterprets The Stairs. "We've re-invented these songs. Some have been done by an orchestra, some [are] stripped down and some tracks may take you [a while] to recognise what it is," Jon Farriss told Triple M's Home Brew earlier this year. It's INXS' unique way to pay tribute to songwriter Andrew Farriss and their legendary frontman, the late and great Michael Hutchence. "We wanted to celebrate the songs, they're such great songs," drummer Jon Farriss says. "I think initially there was a mixed bag of emotions and feelings, which was probably a good thing because we realized how much the songs meant to us," Farriss continued. "But at the end of the day we started to realize that this is actually cathartic for us and it might be for everyone else as well." The music world were equally moved. "Inxs' material, specifically Inxs' songs, set the table for singers," said Ben Harper. "In my opinion, they're any singer's dream songs to sing," Harper added. Covering, 'Never Tear Us Apart' is like covering 'Dock Of The Bay.' That is one of the greatest soul songs ever written." Several of the artists who bravely stepped into Hutchence's shoes in the studio didn't make this record, like The Killers' Brandon Flowers and Vanessa Amorosi. The outtakes may one day surface on a second volume according to band insiders, but this is by no means confirmed. Young Aussie singer/songwriter Dan Sultan will not only be sharing the stage with the band at this year's ARIAs, he also sings his version of Just Keep Walking with the band. "We put the track down between shows in London. The producer saw our last show and asked if [his songwriting partner/guitarist] Scott [Wilson] could play guitar on it," Dan says. "[Dan Sultan guitarist] Scott was blown away as he played a Telecaster that was apparently owned by the great Carl Perkins and later by Ray Davies of The Kinks. So, it was an Inxs song, [played on] Carl Perkins' guitar and recorded in a studio owned by Robbie Williams' producer," Sultan says. The unique stories behind each track will be revealed in due course. Inxs Original Sin tracklist as follows: 1. Drum Opera - Jon Farriss 2. Mediate - feat. Tricky 3. Original Sin feat. Rob Thomas 4. Never Tear Us Apart - feat. Ben Harper & Mylene Farmer 5. Beautiful Girl - feat. Pat Monahan 6. New Sensation - feat. Deborah de Corral 7. Just Keep Walking - feat. Dan Sultan 8. To Look At You - feat. Kav Temperly 9. Mystify - feat. Loane 10. Don't Change - Andrew Farriss & Kirk Pengilly 11. The Stairs - feat. JD Fortune.   THE CARS TO RECORD WITH RIC OCASEK BACK IN THE SADDLE: The Ric Ocasek-led new wave band the Cars have reunited to record their first album in 23 years and may support it with a tour, Billboard.com has learned. The sessions were first confirmed by veteran engineer Paul Orofino in posts on the Pro Sound online message board that have since been deleted, and follow the late July posting on Facebook of a photo with the band's four surviving original members together in a Boston recording studio. Last week, the Cars revealed a 73-second snippet of a new song, "Blue Tip," on their Facebook page, but provided no additional information about the album. Orofino's posts previously indicated that the band, which features Ocasek, guitarist Elliot Easton, keyboardist Greg Hawkes and drummer David Robinson, recorded only new songs for the album at his studio in Millbrook, N.Y. Orofino added that Hawkes played and/or programmed all the bass parts, filling the role served during the Cars' original 1976-1988 run by Benjamin Orr, who died of cancer in 2000. Sources tell Billboard the group is strongly considering touring, but dates have yet to be confirmed. BEGGARS & THIEVES ANNOUNCE UPCOMING EP: Beggars and Thieves have uploaded a new video the first in 20 years. No More Broken Dreams - a new video from the upcoming Stone Alone Firefest collectors EP, Mixed and Mastered by Kevin Churko (Ozzy Osbourne, Hinder). Featuring the single Stone Alone with 2 new tracks recorded at the We are the Brokenhearted sessions plus bonus acoustic versions of No More Broken Dreams and Beggars & Thieves. EP purchase details to follow, but for now, sample the acoustic No More Broken Dreams here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxLSGdkpq9k. RATT ON INDEFINITE HIATUS FOR NOW: Ratt's Robbie Crane made the following statement to Metal Sludge regarding his tenure in the band: "As far as I'm concerned there is no Ratt to be "fired" from as Ratt is on an indefinite hiatus as we've finished the Infestation tour in Japan last week... Warren has dates with his and Dee Schnider's Christmas band, Stephen has 4 to 6 months of solo dates, Carlos is working with Rudy and Vinny on an awesome new project and I'm touring with Lynch Mob over the next couple of months... Thanks for the concern... " This follows recent comments that frontman Stephen Pearcy was returning to his solo endeavors once the current tour concluded. KEYBOARDIST MICHAEL T ROSS ON THE ROAD: Keyboardist Michael T. Ross embarks on more European shows in November with guitarist Alen Brentini, which includes supporting Richie Kotzen at Boogaloo in Zagreb, Croatia on November 18. "While on some down time with Lita Ford, I'm excited to go back to Europe and work with Alen and share the stage again, which is a follow-up to our successful shows in May in Croatia", Michael states. Full Show Listing- November 5- Rock Caffe (Pula Croatia), 6- Club Pepe Rosso (Rijeka, Croatia), 11- Bluesiana (Velden, Austria), 12- Risto Birreria Accademia (Venezia, Italy) w/ Chemistry Room, 17- Klub Sax (Zagreb, Croatia), 18- Boogaloo (Zagreb, Croatia) w/ Richie Kotzen, 20- Rock City at The Soundcave (Uster- Zürich, Switzerland). You can hear Michael's keys on Alen's new single called "Make You Happy" at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWoCgZRBWgc. Other recordings Michael played on are Lizzy Borden "Appointment With Death", Terry Ilous "Hear and Gone", Lillian Axe "Sad Day on Planet Earth", Hardline "Leaving The End Open" and Alen Brentini "Treca Dimenzija". Current interviews of Michael can be seen at www.therockpit.net and in the October issue of Roadie Crew (Brazil). For more information please visit these sites: www.facebook.com/rockkeys, www.twitter.com/michaeltross, www.myspace.com/brentini, www.reverbnation.com/alenbrentini. BACKSTAGE AUCTIONS ANNOUNCES ALL STAR LINE UP FOR THE ROCK GODS AND METAL MONSTERS AUCTION: The auction will showcase over 400 exceptionally rare pieces of rock memorabilia, featuring members of such legendary groups as Pantera, Ministry, Quiet Riot, Dio, White Zombie, Whitesnake, Alcatrazz, Queensryche,  Black Sabbath, Mercyful Fate, Ozzy and more, direct from the private collections of notable rock and metal icons from the past 3 decades. Houston, TX - October 7, 2010 – Backstage Auctions is proud to present the "Rock Gods and Metal Monsters Auction", an unprecedented hard rock and heavy metal online auction event. "Almost every item being offered in the auction is "iconic memorabilia" and is easily identifiable to a specific artist or band," explains Backstage Auctions founder Jacques van Gool. The auction, which is scheduled to go live on Halloween, features amazing pieces direct from the private collections of Al Jourgensen (Ministry), Rudy Sarzo (Quiet Riot, Ozzy, Whitesnake, Dio), Graham Bonnet (Rainbow, Michael Schenker Group, Alcatrazz, Impellitteri), Scott Rockenfield (Queensryche), Kip Winger (Winger) , Bobby Rondinelli (Black Sabbath, Aerosmith), Andy Laroque (Mercyful Fate, King Diamond) and John 5 (Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson) and that is just the tip of the rockin' iceberg. "When we designed the hard rock and heavy metal themed auction, we really tried to build an event that was not only unique but give fans and collectors access to pieces of rock history that were equally rare and one of kind and we have definitely achieved that goal," says Jacques. The auction catalog features over 50 gold and platinum records awards, guitars, drums, gear, stage props, artist stage worn apparel, master recordings, vinyl, handwritten lyrics, rare concert posters and photos and the list goes on and on. "It's not an every day event that you can stand behind and grab on to Al Jourgensen's infamous "skull and bones" microphone stand which he used extensively on many Ministry shows and rehearsals. The historical relevance of that one piece in the rock community is well documented and is going to be one heck of a conversation piece for lucky fan or collector that grabs it in auction," says Jacques. Equally impressive is the private collection of Concrete Management co-founder, Walter O'Brien which features a jaw dropping collection of RIAA record awards presented to him while managing Pantera and White Zombie. On a more personal level, Sarzo and Bonnet have both offered up their personal vintage "rocker apparel" that they wore on stage, during photo shoots and really cool music videos back in the day. The auction wouldn't be complete without a few guitars, drums, stage props and handwritten lyrics. Amazing pieces that Scott Rockenfield of Queensryche, John 5 of Rob Zombie, Bobby Rondinelli and Kip Winger have pulled out of their personal collections are sure to get quite a bit of activity during the auction. "While this is a stellar line-up of artists, we are still adding headliners to the event, which is exciting. It will be interesting to see the final line up." says van Gool. The event, aptly titled the "Rock Gods and Metal Monsters Auction", is a not-to-miss opportunity for fans and collectors around the world to own an authentic piece of one of the most significant genres of music history. The auction, which will be held on-line at www.backstageauctions.com starts on October 31, 2010 and will run through November 7, 2010. A special preview of the entire auction catalog will be available to view beginning Sunday, October 24. Website: www.backstageauctions.com. NEW ERIC JOHNSON SOLO CD: Guitarist, songwriter and singer Eric Johnson brings listeners Up Close to his stunning musicality when the Grammy winning artist releases his sixth studio album on his own Vortexan Music label (via EMI Distribution) on December 7th 2010. The 15-track disc presents 14 new Johnson compositions plus his version of the Electric Flag song Texas, and features guest appearances by fellow master players Jimmie Vaughan and Sonny Landreth on guitar and vocals by Steve Miller, Johnny Lang and Lyrical themes of reflection, emotional revelations, personal growth and fulfillment are underscored on the album by Johnson's most daring, urgent, progressive and at times raw and fervent guitar work to date. As with all of Johnson's work, his all-encompassing style draws from rock, blues, pop, country, jazz and classic to exemplify his stature as an extraordinary guitar player accessible to ordinary music fans (Memphis Commercial Appeal). Malford Milligan as well as Johnson. It returns him to the EMI family where Johnson enjoyed his greatest record success with the albums Ah Via Musicom and Venus Isle. Praised by All Music Guide as "one of the very few musical artists [to] achieve a true signature style which makes comparisons to other musicians impossible", Johnson expands, deepens and enhances his sound on his first album release since Bloom in 2005. The title reflects the revelatory and spontaneous performances on Up Close as well as its sonic immediacy thanks to a mix by legendary veteran engineer Andy Johns. "I decided to let go a bit and allow things to happen and just go with the flow", explains Johnson of his approach to the album. "I like my work to have a high proficiency, but I also wanted to go for the energy and magic of the performances." He precedes the album's release with a special acoustic Guitar Masters tour alongside acclaimed players Peppino D'Agostino and Andy McKee in October, and follows it with his second appearance on the Experience Hendrix tour later this year and another leg of the Guitar Masters tour in January 2011. Lyrical themes of reflection, emotional revelations, personal growth and fulfillment are underscored on the album by Johnson's most daring, urgent, progressive and at times raw and fervent guitar work to date. As with all of Johnson's work, his all-encompassing style draws from rock, blues, pop, country, jazz and classic to exemplify his stature as an extraordinary guitar player accessible to ordinary music fans (Memphis Commercial Appeal). Track Listing: 1. Awaken 2. Fatdaddy 3. Brilliant Room (Malford Milligan -Vocal) 4. Texas (Steve Miller ­Vocal, Jimmie Vaughan - Guitar) 5. Gem 6. Traverse 7. Austin (Jonny Lang - Vocal) 8. Soul Surprise 9. On The Way 10. Arithmetic 11. The Sea And The Mountain 12. Vortexan 13. A Change Has Come To Me 14. Change - Revisited 15. Your Book (Sonny Landreth - Guitar). For more information, visit www.ericjohnson.com. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with my promised tribute to Gotthard's Steve Lee (RIP). The tribute features 4 live shows (3 audio, 1 DVD): - Gotthard - Live 2007 (Soundboard) - Gotthard - Switzerland, April 25 2010 (Audience Recording) - Gotthard - Switzerland March 9, 2004 (Audience Recording) - Gotthard - Unplugged Live - DVD (Pro-Shot. AWESOME show!) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, October 21, 2010

DANIELE LIVERANI & FRIENDS RETURN TO MELODIC ROCK AS A PRIME SUSPECT Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Prime Suspect debut album on December 3. Prime Suspect is a new melodic rock combo formed by Daniele Liverani, Tommy Ermolli and Dario Ciccioni, three Italian musicians who came to the attention of the Melodic Rock crowd thanks to their performances on the three Khymera releases. Liverani, the most experienced musician of the lot, had a long career in the Italian HR/HM scene releasing albums with the Prog Metal groups Empty Tremor and Twinspirits and also with the Genius Rock Opera in 3 chapters, showcasing an international all star cast of singers including Daniel Gildenlow (Pain of Salvation), Mark Boals, DC Cooper (ex Royal Hunt) and many more. Since the Khymera last two albums saw the bulk of the songwriting from the brothers Tom and James Martin, Liverani started to put together some Melodic Rock tracks which could live on the quality of arrangement and performance of the previous Khymera releases. "The awesome songwriting of the Martin Brothers for the Khymera albums I've been arranging and producing inspired me a lot and that's why I decided to accept the challenge of writing some original material in the more Melodic Rock style" says Daniele Liverani presenting the new album. " I would say that Prime Suspect is a combination of what I've been learning with Khymera and my personal style and I have been thrilled with the result... It's been very refreshing to work on this record, and it's been awesome as usual to work all the musicians involved, that provided great performances and the right sound for this new challenge". After a few demos, the three musicians started looking for a suitable singer who could gel with the material written and the search was over when Olaf Senkbeil, from the German band Dreamtide, came into the picture. The icing on the cake was offered by the Swedish songwriter Christian Wolff (On The Rise, Johnny Lima, Mecca) who contributed with two songs "What Do You Want" and "It Could've Been You" for the amazing final result. "Basically there's a lot of classic melodic rock inside the tunes" tells Liverani "but the sound is very modern and powerful with a touch of experimentation that comes from my Progressive experience. That's an interesting combination that hopefully the listeners will find interesting and entertaining" A brilliant debut album which offers a contemporary and European sounding / flavoured Melodic Rock, which is granted to appeal to the fans of Khymera, Last Autumn's Dream and class AOR music. "Prime Suspect" track listing includes: What Do You Want; I'll Be Fine; Change This World; I Never Knew; I Would Like To Reach The Sun; It Could've Been You; Hear Me Calling; Deep In My Heart; So Strange; Watch Me. The songs "What Do You Want" and "Change This World" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio.   xx NELSON RELEASES FIRST MUSIC VIDEO IN 15 YEARS "YOU'RE ALL I NEED TONIGHT" Never before seen music video You're All I Need Tonight from Nelson's forthcoming album Lightning Strikes Twice premiers live on AOL Music and Noisecreep - www.noisecreep.com or www.music.aol.com. You're All I Need Tonight is the first music video created by Matthew & Gunnar Nelson in over 15 years. It is the first single to be released from the critically acclaimed new album "Lightning Strikes Twice" from Frontiers Records scheduled for release in Europe on November 5th, and in the U.S. in February 2011 from Frontiers Records USA. "Lightning Strikes Twice" is a sequel to Nelson's classic multi-platinum debut album, "After the Rain". You're All I Need Tonight captures the melodic rock signature Nelson sound and harmonies from the twin lead front men and songwriters performing at the top of their game. A-list stage performance led by Matthew Nelson and featuring backing musicians Juke Kartel, provide the perfect compliment to the powerful lead vocals of Gunnar Nelson, whose stellar vocal performance ignites the screen. Video trailer here: www.NelsonKicksAss.com OR www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKq8NaSnzOE. Nelson's single You're All I Need Tonight is now available for digital audio download purchase from Frontiers Records online at Amazon.com, iTunes and Napster.   NEW LEVERTY / KUNES SONG NOW AVAILABLE For the princely sum of 99c, you can now own the new Leverty / Kunes classic hard rock single: All The Girls Are Crazy. Leverty & Kunes pay tribute to the songwriter, Mike Montgomery, from Paul Kossoff`s band Back Street Crawler. This is the debut effort between two longtime musical friends: Bill Leverty of Firehouse fame, who also has a stunning blues solo record, "Deep South" (www.leverty.com); and Cactus/Savoy Brown vocalist frontman Jimmy Kunes, who also has two solo records to his credit as Jimmy Kunes Band : "Slow Moving Vehicle" / Love Train and Gate Of All Saints (www.myspace.com/jimmykunes). The pair were thrilled to have the full support of Cayman Publishing to achieve the goal of bringing this classic gem back into the hearts and minds of true rock fans around the world. Leverty and Kunes recruited the powerful drumming talents of Andre LaBelle for this recording. Special thanks to David Clayton at Free Appreciation Society for his help and continuing support. Get your high quality digital copy today from any of the following outlets: cdbaby.com/cd/levertykunes / www.amazon.com / itunes.apple.com/us/album/all-the-girls-are-crazy-single/id399121647.   POWER QUEST READY THEIR BLOOD ALLIANCE Power Quest have finished the recording part of their new album Blood Alliance, the follow up to 2008's highly acclaimed "Master of Illusion". Steve Williams checks in: "The recording of "Blood Alliance" has now finished at Foel Studios. Big thanks to Chris Fielding and Dave Anderson for all their hard work over the month we spent there. We worked 14 hours per day most days and everyone was pretty much destroyed by the end of the session but we are all extremely pleased with the results! Mixing is due to commence at Remaster Studio in Vicenza on October 26th. Nick Savio, who mixed "Master Of Illusion" will again be in the hot seat for this. Release dates are currently being discussed with Napalm Records and everything is on course for a February 2011 release. Felipe Machado has completed another awesome job with the artwork and booklet and Dijana Capan has provided us with some excellent photos for the booklet and the promotional campaign." ROB ROCK TO PERFORM IN MEXICO The Rob Rock Band will play the "Together For The Revolution" festival in Mexico City on November 20th 2010. Check this site for more info: www.myspace.com/togetherfortherevolution. ENVISION'S CHOP SHOP WELCOMES JOE SATRIANI AS GUEST HOST This weekend, master guitarist Joe Satriani will be stepping in for Steve Black and hosting The Chop Shop Classic Guitar Radio Show. Tune in to see what surprises Satriani has in store for listeners, including a Hall of Fame salute to Rush and a Founding Fathers segment with Kenny Wayne Shepherd paying tribute to the James Moore blues original "I'm A King Bee." Satriani will also talk about his new album, Black Swans and Wormhole Wizards, which hit stores last week. The Chop Shop and Chop Shop Classic feature weekly updates on bands and tours, web exclusive content, and special guests all while playing 10 songs an hour. Both versions are two hours in length and contain two feature interviews as well as the exclusive Chop Shop Hall of Fame feature, where such guests as Ted Nugent, Brian May, Leslie West, and hundreds others pay tribute to guitar legends Eddie Van Halen, Jimi Hendrix, Angus Young, Slash and more. Visit www.chopshopradio.com.

 

 

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

VEGA DELIVERS UK AOR FANS A KISS OF LIFE Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Vega's debut album Kiss of Life on December 3 in Europe. VEGA is a band that formed in may 2009 from the union of former KICK vocalist Nick Workman with the successful and respected song writing partnership of Tom and James Martin (House of Lords, Ted Poley of Danger Danger, Khymera, Sunstorm to name but a few), VEGA is a new band but rest assured they are about to take the Melodic Rock world by storm! Their debut album "Kiss of Life" has been produced by John Greatwood (engineer for Tom Lord Alge of QUEEN fame) and mastered by the one and only Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69) and features 12 rock songs which mix classic Bon Jovi and Def Leppard, with a pinch of U2 and Journey. "We wear our love of 80's rock music on our sleeve, but we also have injected our love of modern rock music to it" says Tom Martin. "We aren't trying to rehash anything: the sound we have achieved is 100% VEGA. We didn't want to try and guess what people expect and get it wrong. Normally when we write songs we have the control over the lyrics/melodies but this time with Vega we left Nick to this part because we really rate him as a songwriter and he did a fantastic job with this on Kick's albums, so we knew he could make our sound more unique and make it a bit different from the AOR songs we write". Tom and James met Nick 10 years ago when KICK was supporting Thunder on the first of their farewell tours. In the time that followed, the guys had always wanted to work with Nick, and opportunity came when the two brothers and drummer Dan Chantrey met Nick for a second time at a U.K. rock festival. Conversations about movies and music finally moved on to the all important question….."When are we going to work together?". The answer ended up being the next day, and VEGA was born. The chemistry between the guys was obvious and two brothers became four! Vega wrote 25 songs in the coming months and chose the best songs for recording. No expense was spared and a top UK recording studio was booked and in John Greatwood a producer with numerous UK and European top 10 albums and singles was on board! Following recording and mixing in October, Dennis Ward stepped up to the plate to put the final touches to the album, mastering it in his studio in Germany. Get ready to experience the band live! "We do have a couple of gigs confirmed and others that we are waiting on" says singer Nick Workman. "We will support Danny Vaughn at Dudley JB's on December 10th, the week the album comes out. As we were going to be rehearsed for that it would be silly not to do another gig, so we booked a date at The Yardbird's the night before to blow out the cobwebs!! It's going to be a lot of fun to play these songs live." You can expect Vega to be on many people's best of list of 2010 even if the album will be released almost... out of time! Kiss of Life tracklisting includes: Into The Wild; Kiss Of Life; One Of A Kind; Staring At The Sun; Too Young For Wings; A.N. Other; Headlights; Hearts Of Glass; Stay With Me; Wonderland; What It Takes; S.O.S. - Kiss Of Life (videoclip). The songs "Into The Wild" and "Kiss Of Life" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Enjoy the "Kiss of Life" videoclip: www.youtube.com/watch?v=LnVoF4TalEA. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/vegaofficial / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx FRONTIERS RECORDS OCTOBER PR SPOT The latest Frontiers Records promo spot can be viewed via YouTube now:   MAGNUM "THE VISITATION" - NEW ALBUM IN JANUARY 2011 On a music scene which laments with increasing vehemence a lack of consistency and artistic standards, Magnum are a band who possess these very qualities. For almost 40 years, they have been among the most consistent leading lights in rock history and continue to impress with their unique style, a mix of powerful energy, deep melodiousness and perceptive lyrics. At the same time, Magnum's songs immediately captivate their audience and lose none of their fascination, even after repeated listens. "I'd even say that many of our songs reveal all their strong points only after you've heard them a few times," guitarist/songwriter/producer Tony Clarkin explains, adding: "Our brand-new compositions in particular feature a large number of harmony and rhythm changes, I feel they should definitely be heard a few times so you can discover their many details." Clarkin is referring to the latest Magnum release, The Visitation, due out on Steamhammer/SPV in Europe on 17 January 2011 (Germany: 14 January; US & Canada: 25 January) and without a doubt one of the strongest albums in the band's history to date. The five Magnum members, Tony Clarkin (guitars), Bob Catley (vocals), Mark Stanway (keyboards), Al Barrow (bass) and Harry James (drums), have invested all their passion, skill and great experience to come up with an optimum result. "I feel we haven't brought out one really weak album, yet none of our previous recordings featured a better production than The Visitation," Clarkin announces proudly. "This release sounds more rock-oriented and at the same time more personal than anything we've recorded so far, and it definitely features the widest range of stylistic directions and atmospheres. What makes it so special is the fact that the music's arrangements match the atmosphere and the lyrics' statements. Every cog turns perfectly within the wheelwork." Magnum prove repeatedly on The Visitation that their lyrics are anything but superficial or mediocre: 'Mother Nature's Final Dance' has the musicians decry the destructive way we treat our environment. "Just look at what's going on in the world at the moment, toxic red mud polluting a whole village in Hungary, the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico – terrible. It's always a mix of greed and lack of responsibility which leads to these kinds of tragedies." The rock number 'Freedom Day', a kind of paean of praise to self-determination, is equally profound. Clarkin: "We live in freedom in Europe, but looking at a lot of South-American or African countries, you see oppression, you see people living under the brutal reign of a dictator. That's why we say: let's fight for freedom." The cover artwork, which was again created by graphic designer Rodney Matthews, reflects the lyrics of 'Door To Nowhere', which has Magnum look back at their own childhood. It would hardly be possible for a track to be more typical of this band than this number with its dynamic guitar parts, gritty arrangements and charismatic vocals. The Visitation will be available in four different formats: as a standard version (see the cover in yellow), in a limited-edition DigiPak featuring a bonus DVD (the black cover), as double gatefold coloured vinyl (the black cover) and for download. Starting early March 2011, Magnum will embark on a two-month European tour which will see the band present, along with songs from The Visitation and popular classics, tracks which haven't featured on their live playlist for a number of years. So the party is about to begin! Tracklisting: 01. Black Skies , 02. Doors To Nowhere, 03. The Visitation, 04. Wild Angels, 05. Spin Like A Wheel, 06. The Last Frontier, 07. Freedom Day, 08. Mother Nature's Final Dance, 09. Midnight Kings, 10. Tonight's The Night. Bonus DVD / Limited Edition Digipak: The Visitation Lyrics / Live at the High Voltage Festival 2010 in London 2010: Brand New Morning - Les Morts Dansant - All My Bridges - When We Were Younger / Eyes Like Fire - footage (this is one of the tracks that didn't make the album) / Behind The Artwork video with Al Barrow (with tracks The Moonking & In My Minds Eye) / Rodney Matthews Artwork / Photo Galleries / Moonblog - montage. "The Visitation" - Tour 2011 09.03. SE-Stockholm – Debaser Medis 10.03. SE-Gothenburg – Brew House 11.03. D-Berlin – Fritz Club (in the Postbahnhof) 12.03. D-Leipzig – Hellraiser 13.03. CZ-Prague - Exit Chmelnice 15.03. D-Munich – Ampere 16.03. D-Nuremburg – Hirsch 18.03. D-Mannheim – Capitol 19.03. D-Memmingen – Kaminwerk 21.03. CH-Pratteln – Z7 22.03. D-Freiburg – Jazzhaus 23.03. D-Bochum – Matrix 25.03. D-Aschaffenburg – Colos-Saal 26.03. D-Winterbach – Lehenbachhalle 27.03. D-Cologne – Kantine 29.03. D-Würzburg – Posthalle 31.03. D-Hamburg – Fabrik 01.04. D-Osnabrück – Rosenhof 02.04. D-Worpswede – Music Hall 04.04. D-Saarbrücken – Garage 13.04. GB-Glasgow – The Garage 14.04. GB-Newcastle – Academy 1 16.04. GB-Liverpool – Stanley Theatre 17.04. GB-Leamington – Assembly 18.04. GB-Oxford - Academy 19.04. GB-Norwich – Waterfront 20.04. GB-Sheffield – The Cooperation 22.04. GB-Holmfirth - Picturedome 23.04. GB-Wolverhampton – Wulfrun Hall 24.04. GB-Southampton – The Brook 27.04. GB-Nottingham – Rock City 28.04. GB-Manchester – Academy 2 29.04. GB-Treorci - The Park & Dare Theatre 30.04. GB-London – Shepherd`s Bush Empire 01.05. GB-Bristol - Academy WebLinks: www.magnumonline.co.uk / www.myspace.com/spvmusic.   xxxx FIREFEST - UPDATES AND MERCH A few notes from Firefest, in the lead up to the event in under 2 weeks time - "Due to Rock City imposing a REALLY STRICT 10PM curfew on us both nights we have had to review the door opening times and the complete running times for Saturday and Sunday. Can you all take note of the NEW door opening and band running times..." Running Times Firefest 2010 Friday October 29 Doors Open: 7pm Reckless Love : 7.30 – 8.30 Crazy Lixx : 8.50 – 9.50 HEAT : 10.15 – 11.30 Saturday October 30 Doors Open : 12.15 Grand Illusion : 12.35 – 1.15 Beggars and Thieves : 1.35 – 2.30 Bangalore Choir : 2.50– 3.50 Shotgun Symphony : 4.10 – 5.10 Bonfire : 5.30 – 6.35 Dare : 7.00 – 8.05 Lynch Mob : 8.35 – 9.50 Sunday October 31 Door Open : 12.15 Grand Design : 12.35 -1.15 Newman : 1.35 – 2.30 Stage Dolls : 2.50 – 3.50 Strangeways : 4.10 – 5.10 Pretty Maids : 5.30 – 6.35 Jimi Jamison : 7.00 – 8.05 Nelson : 8.35 – 9.50 Firefest 2010 Merchandise All t-shirts designs (2 for men, 3 for girls) are now up online at our shop at www.thefirefest.com for pre-order at £15 each plus postage. Also online is the awesome 36 page full colour A4 programme for the ludicrously low price of £5. All prices have had postage built in, with options for UK, Europe and USA/Rest of World. In the first 12 hours on sale we shifted over £1500 worth of t-shirts, so be sure to get your Firefest merch before it is all gone! Also listed in the Shop are bargains for all our available official Firefest DVDs.   THANK YOU Thank you for all the support and kind words during my sick leave. I'm not 100%, but at least I hope updates can resume from today and I'll do my best to catch up in the next week...

 

 

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Hi folks. I attempted a comeback to work today…I've been laid flat with the flu since late last week. I know there are some that get critical and frustrated with down time, lack of news and whatever…my apologies for that. Glad there has only been one e-mail telling me how much I suck on this occasion. I have had ongoing health issues over the last year or two that have caused delays and I'm continuing to try and get those figured out. Believe me – I'm my own worst critic and I'm more frustrated than anyone else out there might be. Hey – if you are bored, buy some of my CDs! But for better or worse, I run the site as I always have and right now I'm simply too tired to be able to sit at my desk and get anything done. I've been trying all day, but going nowhere. This pushes me ever further behind and there's a lot of stuff that needs dealing with, announcements, news, reviews, MR-X, showcases etc…but nothing is guaranteed before next Monday. Thanks to all (most at least!) for hanging in there yet again…

 

 

Friday, October 08, 2010

xx Forgive this late tribute and lack of general news; I've been sick most of the week. Sadly this has only given me more time to reflect on just what a tragic situation we find ourselves in. Steve Lee's accidental death is simply unbelievable. Gotthard were one of the blueprint bands for "getting it right" in the scene this website covers. I was an early fan of the band before losing my way a little, but like so many others, found myself right back seriously pumped about the band with the release of their Lipservice record. That was a storming return to form, which propelled the band further ahead as far as their overall reputation and building stature as an amazing live act. They became Switzerland's biggest rock band and retained that crown with each subsequent release. They could do no wrong as far as I and many others are concerned... And the overwhelming feedback I have had from newer fans in the last couple of days (besides the obvious shock) is that they discovered the band right here and were instantly hooked. That's the kind of band they were. One listen and they engaged the listener. And a big part of just why this was so, was the natural charisma and vocal talent of frontman Steve Lee. A dynamic frontman and songwriter, he also had that perfect voice for rock n roll and I count myself as one of the fortunate ones to be a fan of his voice, his stagecraft and his band. I was lucky enough to meet the very humble Steve at Firefest one year and saw Gotthard in full flight. I'll remember that set for it's energy and the way the crowd lapped up every note. This unbelievably tragic event has taken Steve from his family, his band mates and thousand's of adoring fans way way way too early. His music will live on forever, but in this close knit community, his talent will leave a massive, unfillable hole for all. R.I.P. Steve Lee and my personal, heartfelt condolences to everyone who's lives he touched. An official condolence site for Steve has been established at: www.stevelee.ch. The photo's above are courtesy of Edwin van Hoof. Take in Gotthard in their prime, live on stage via the clips below. Gotthard's record label, Nuclear Blast Records, has released the following statement: "The world has lost one of its greatest rock singers: Gotthard frontman Steve Lee was killed accidentally during a motorcycle trip in the USA on Interstate 15 between Mesquite and Las Vegas and died at the scene. The Gotthard singer had flown to the U.S. with some biker friends just this weekend to fulfill a long-cherished dream for which he'd never had the time due to his heavy touring schedule for many years. It was to be two weeks through the States on a Harley-Davidson. The 21 Swiss bikers started their journey on Sunday on a total of 12 motorcycles. On Tuesday, October 5, about 50 miles from Las Vegas, the group had stopped at the roadside to put on their rain gear as it had started to rain. On the slippery road, the trailer of a passing truck began to skid. The driver attempted evasive action but his trailer clipped five of the motorcycles parked at the roadside; one of them hit Steve Lee. Rescue services attempted resuscitation but efforts were stopped after 20 minutes. At 16:13 local time, Steve Lee was pronounced dead. Among the passengers were Gotthard bassist Marc Lynn and Lee's girlfriend Brigitte Voss Balzarini. All other fellow riders were unharmed. Steve Lee was 48 years old. With Steve Lee, we not only lose one of the world's best rock voices but also an extraordinary personality. Despite his enormous success, the Ticino singer had retained a very subtle eye for detail and often impressed the people around him with his sensitive observation. Due to his personality, he had a serious outlook, without losing his sense of humour and lust for life. Steve Lee met his environment with respect but always had, in his gentle way, a very simple, personal touch. He understood like no one else how to enjoy without going too far — to him, alcohol and parties were things he met with level-headedness. The singer sold several million albums throughout his career with GOTTHARD, several of them reaching platinum, double or triple platinum status. And yet all this bears no relation to the human greatness of Steve Lee on a daily basis." MSN/Rock Metal TV Spain exclusively filmed in high quality several songs of the last Gotthard gig in Madrid. The footage is totally unreleased. We want to remember Steve Lee and pay him a little homage. Gotthard - Top Of The World Gotthard - Need To Believe Gotthard - Sister Moon   MSN/Rock Metal TV is the new rock television in Spain directed by Mario Ruiz from Krea Films and veteran Spanish journalist Rafa Basa from RafaBasa.com. UNRULY CHILD EPK TO VIEW: Frontiers Records have released a new EPK for the Unruly Child album World's Collide, due out October 15.   INTRODUCING SEBASTIEN FROM ESCAPE MUSIC: Escape Music will release the debut album from Sebastien titled Tears Of White Roses on November 19. Packed with special guests, the track listing is as follows: 1. Museé du Satan Rouge (with Tore Moren's guitar solo), 2. Femme Fatale (with Amanda Somerville's voice), 3. Dorian (with Fabio Lione's and Roland Grapow's voice), 4. Remiel In Flames, 5. Tears Of White Roses (with Mike DiMeo's voice), 6. Phoenix Rising (with Roland Grapow's voice), 7. Voices In Your Heart (with Mike DiMeo's voice and Roland Grapow's guitar solo), 8. Fields Of Chlum (1866 A.D.) (with Fabio Lione's voice), 9. Lake Of Dreams, 10. Silver Water (with Apollo Papathanasio's voice), 11. Black Rose - part I (with Doogie White's voice), 12. Black Rose - part II (with Amanda Somerville's voice). Band: George Rain - vocals, guitars; Andy Mons - guitars; Peter Forge - bass; Rob Vrsansky - keyboards; Radek Rain - drums. Produced by: Roland Grapow. Full Length audio download: Dorian. "I put lots of my energy in them because I believe they can wake up the interest abroad and reach the international success." Roland Grapow. Sebastien origins date back to February 1999. The first real line-up appears under the name Calypso in December 1999. Two years later the name is changed to Navar. In studio "Dark" the first CD "Navar" with songs from the creative workshop of George Rain and Julián Záhorovský (later Czech Pop Idol finalist) is recorded. Then the period of frequent concerts, recording the single "Shine of Light" and finally realization of the second CD "Commotion" occurs. In summer 2004 the band goes to the studio again to present the new image of Navar! It is heavy metal EP "Proti všem". In April 2006 the new CD "1621" is baptized and self-published, rewarded with many positive reviews (Spark rock magazine...) and expanded to Japan (with Leviathan Records). In 2008 two members leave the group... Torso of Navar ­ Rain brothers and Andy Mons ­ invite new members. The new band is born, known as Sebastien! At the same time George Rain is involved in the preparation of Czech metal opera, Fraternitas. New SP "Závidím" is recorded and George Rain and Andy Mons work on the material for the new album... In November 2009 the band goes to the Grapow Studios (of Roland Grapow - guitarist of Masterplan, ex-Helloween) to record long-promised album "Tears Of White Roses"... Lyrics are written by poet Jan Petri (he also works for Czech prog-thrashers, Asmodeus) and songs are written and arranged by George Rain and Andy Mons... For the first time in the history of rock/metal music you can hear a great, fresh CD with strong melodies and modern sound coming from the heart of Europe, from country small only in its size ­ Czech Republic. This album shows off seven famous names of favourite artists and is proud to be called the first of its kind on rock/metal scene. No doubt the new rock/metal masterpiece is ready to be served to hungry fans... WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   Escape have previously announced the limited edition DigiPack release of the two classic Steelhouse Lane albums Metallic Blue and Slaves Of The New World on November 19. The exclusive artwork has just been released:   MR-X UPDATE PENDING: MR-X will be updated Monday with a special tribute to Steve Lee and Gotthard. There was an issue with postage rates being added to T-Shirt orders in error. That should now be fixed and those that have ordered will be contacted Monday to sort out.

 

 

Wednesday, October 06, 2010

GOTTHARD'S SINGER STEVE LEE DIES IN MOTORBIKE ACCIDENT: Sad, tragic and heartbreaking news has just broken - Steve Lee, the hugely respected voice of Swiss hard rock heroes Gotthard has been killed in a motorbike accident in California. There is no press release or official statement as of yet, but there will be in the hours to follow. News will be updated ASAP. Swiss news reports: www.blick.ch/people/schweiz/steve-lee-schon-wieder-horror-crash-158008 My personal heartfelt condolences go to his family and band mates and friends...and all the fans of Gotthard. R.I.P. Steve - a true hero of the melodic rock scene. URIAH HEEP - 'EAVY BRITISH ROCK LEGENDS RETURN 'DOWNUNDA' IN 2011 WITH A GREATEST HITS TOUR: It's been over 25 years since the legendary Uriah Heep have played on Australian soil. In that time we've witnessed a lot of changes to our musical landscape: the birth, death and rebirth of trends; musical marriages and mix-ups; assassinations and cultural revolutions; and of course the dawn of the digital age. Through all of this, Uriah Heep has ensured at least one constant on the horizon - a hard, heavy rock band that continues to deliver. Uriah Heep's unique, progressive, hard sound has made them a mainstay of the rock circuit for four decades. Famed for their accomplished musical chops, diverse song writing and powerful live performances, the band has released some of the most popular and defining music of their genre. With a catalog that includes albums such as 1972's 'Demons and Wizards', 1982's 'Abominog', and the 2001 release 'Future Echoes Of The Past', it's no surprise that the band has sold over 30 million records worldwide. Australian audiences in particular have taken Uriah Heep into their hard-rocking hearts, with the band scoring consecutive charting albums and singles in the country on more than one occasion. Heep's remarkable popularity in the Great Southern Land spawned the exclusive Australian compilation 'Downunda', released to commemorate their 1974 tour. What's more, in 2003 Uriah Heep enlisted the vocal talents of none other than Aussie rock legend Jimmy Barnes on the 'Relentless' album, thus cementing their affinity to this country. Uriah Heep have toured consistently throughout their 40-year career, performing in over 48 countries to millions of faithful fans, including headline performances at Redding and the prestigious Sweden Rock Festival. In 1987 they became the first major rock act to perform in the Soviet Union, playing to audiences of 185,000 people. Uriah Heep bassist Trevor Bolder (ex-David Bowie & the Spiders from Mars) revealed the secret of the band's longevity is its passion for live performance. He says, "You go in and out of fashion but we've always wanted to play. we love being on the road." Make sure you catch Uriah Heep on their triumphant return to Australia in 2011. Thursday 31st March. Brisbane. The Tivoli Friday 1st April. Sydney. Enmore Theatre Saturday 2nd April. Melbourne. Palais Theatre Tickets on sale Friday October 15 at 9am MR. BIG ALBUM NEARS: News from Eric Martin - "Doing background vocals with the guys this week and then it's mixing time for the new Mr. Big record. Out December 15th!" Can't wait!! TUNE IN TO WDLJ: Tune in every Thursday night at 10 pm Central (Midwest) USA to www.wdlj.com (97.5FM) - The Metalshop Worldwide show! Playing the best metal on the planet! National, local, international, major and independent artists featured weekly! One hour of killer metal/hard rock! Featuring artists from MelodicRock Records, Retrospect Records, Frontiers Records, AOR Heaven, Sweetsounds Music and other major and independent labels. This weeks top rock artist charts (Sept 30, 2010) include Jimi Jamison - Dream Higher * Fenrik Lane - Diamonds In The Waste * Jim Peterik - Hearts Are Gonna Roll * Doogie White - Times Like These * First Signal - When You Believe *Bangaloir Choir - Dont Act Surprised * Halford - Electric Eye (Live!) * Strikeforce - Last Train * Accept - Rolling Thunder * Overkill - Ironbound * Joe Lynn Turner - This Is Who I Am. Top artist charts are based on worldwide email requests - e-mail your hard rock/metal requests to: metal_shop1@yahoo.com. HEALTH UPDATE ON Y&T's PHIL KENNEMORE: Y&T update: "On behalf of Phil, his family, and Y&T, we would like to thank everyone who has so generously donated something to Phil. There is not a donation, no matter how small, that goes unnoticed or unappreciated. We've been so moved by some of the stories--fans who could probably not afford a cent yet they gave what they could anyway, even if it was $5; a number of fans who have been kind enough to give more than once; a fan in Japan who sold his extra guitar and donated the funds to Phil; George Bisceglia who is building a "Facemelter" guitar to auction for Phil (details to come); Denise & Eric Martin who gave a generous donation; a popular booking agent in the UK who gave a substantial donation for his pal Phil; one of our agents in Belgium who wired a healthy donation into Phil's account. Those are just a few of the many events that have overwhelmed us. And one donation that has touched us all...Wendy Dio phoned Jill to say that the board of the "Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund" met and decided to give a sizeable donation to Phil. The check arrived the next day, along with a handwritten note from Wendy for Phil. As Dave recently posted on the forum, what you all are doing demonstrates more how you feel about Phil than just the monetary value of your donation. Thank you, one and all, for your outpouring of love and support for our buddy Phil. Since our last email update, Phil has posted two new threads on the forum regarding his health and well-being - www.meniketti.com/vforum/showthread.php?t=32003 and www.meniketti.com/vforum/showthread.php?t=32250. As Phil stated, he is reading (and re-reading) every single response. Please post your messages to Phil in one of the above posts. ORIGINAL MR T-SHIRT SALE: ONCE SOLD OUT - THEY ARE GONE FOR GOOD! NO REPRINTS ON THESE DESIGNS LIMITED NUMBERS AVAILABLE! SOME TITLES 1 UNIT ONLY!!!!!!!! ALL PRICES INCLUDE SHIPPING - AIR MAIL WORLDWIDE   Shirt Options Blue XL $25.00Grey XL $25.00Blue XXL $25.00Grey XXL $25.00Blue XXXL $25.00Grey XXXL $25.00Blue Large $25.00 Shirt Options Black XXXXL $30.00Black Long Sleeve L $30.00Blue XXL $25.00 Size Option Black Short Sleeve $25.00Black Long Sleeve XXXL $30.00 Details Large GREY $25.00

 

 

Tuesday, October 05, 2010

UNRULY CHILD FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME: Click on the image to enjoy the clip of Very First Time - the monster AOR track from Unruly Child, taken from "Worlds Collide" Out on October 15 via Frontiers Records.   LILLIAN AXE VACANCY ARISES AGAIN: Former Metal Church frontman Ronny Munroe has announced his departure from Lillian Axe, less than four months after he joined the Louisiana-based band. In a statement Ronny is quoted: "I'm sorry to announce that I have had to step down from my position as lead vocalist of Lillian Axe," Munroe writes in a statement. "My commitments to my other bands have made it impossible to give Lillian Axe the time and dedication that it truly deserves. I want to thank Steve Blaze [guitar] and the rest of the Lillian camp for the opportunity to front such a great band and I wish them all the best for the future." MELODIC BRIEFS: Rock Eyes have an band interview with Shotgun Symphony who are playing Firefest later this month: www.rockeyez.com. Steve Lukather is featured in an interview up now at: www.rockgig.co.uk. As is a live report of Black Country Communion's recent showcase gig. Joe Satriani interview feature: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/joe-satriani-0922/ ERUPTION ALL BURNT OUT: Australian hard rock band ERUPTION are splitting up (they released the 2009 debut album "All Screwed Up" via Escape Music). Darren Grant (lead vocalist/guitarist) is currently recording a solo album and is now based on the Gold Coast Australia. Darren is looking for musicians to put together a new Christian rock band. If your interested, contact him at dazzarocks@hotmail.com. Guitar virtuoso Santi Rigolizio is currently recording a solo album also.

 

 

Monday, October 04, 2010

ANOTHER PIKC UP FOR SPRINGFIELD FANS: Rick Springfield is filling a long left void in the market place and frequent fan request by compiling all his career video clips onto one DVD - Video Vault. The quote from R9ick's Merch site reads: "In this first-ever compilation of music videos from GRAMMY-awarding winning musician Rick Springfield, Video Vault captures the artist's meteoric rise from the early 80s through his still red-hot performances today. All the classics from Rick's amazing 30-plus year career are included, accompanied by personal commentary from Rick himself that will have you singing and laughing along to Jessie's Girl, Love Is Alright Tonite, Love Somebody, and more. With a running time of 127 minutes, and more than 70 minutes of Rick's own commentary, this special release DVD captures Rick's incredible talent that has produced 17 Top 40 hits and sold 19 million records. Special DVD features include Rick's favorite television appearances – performances that can't be found anywhere else but inside the Video Vault." DVDs are currently in production and will begin shipping on 10/8/10. By purchasing this item, you agree and understand the conditions of this pre-sale. We will not respond to emails about shipping status until after this date. Thank you!" Pre-Order at: www.rickspringfieldmerch.com/product_p/004-vidv-dvd.htm. Video Listing: Jessie's Girl, I've Done Everything for You, Love Is Alright Tonite, Don't Talk to Strangers, What Kind of Fool Am I, I Get Excited, April 24, 1981, Affair of the Heart, Human Touch, Souls, Love Somebody, Bop 'Til You Drop, Don't Walk Away, Celebrate Youth, State of the Heart, Rock of Life, Dance This World Away, Honeymoon in Beirut, Christmas With You, What's Victoria's Secret, Don't Keep the Sandman Waiting.   TAKARA 1ST LIVE PERFORMANCE IN LOS ANGELES/ NEW LINEUP ANNOUNCEMENT: SPV/ Progrock Recording artists Takara announce there first live gig ever! The debut live show will be on October 30, 2010 at 11:15 pm, at Paladinos night club in Reseda, a suburb of Los Angeles CA. Attendees of this performance can expect to hear a set of music from Takara, that spans their entire music career catalogue, from their first album "Eternal Faith" all the way through to their latest release "Invitation to Forever". The band is extremely pleased to be finally be performing all these songs from the bands entire catalogue. More Takara shows will be announced for Southern California in the coming weeks. Takara is also please to announce it's new lineup. On Lead Vocals is Jaimie Kelli, Drums Gene McEwen, Bass, Surge Black, and on Guitar, is Takara founder Neal Grusky. All Takara CD's are available through the Takara site: www.takararocks.com. Takara merchandise/CD's will be for sale at the Paladinos show as well. All Takara music is available via digital download at iTunes, as well as all other fine music download sites too. www.myspace.com/takararocks. NEW VIDEO LAUNCH FOR GRAND DESIGN: Grand Design / Metal Heaven Records (Ger) are proud to introduce the 2nd video "Sad Sound Of Goodbye" from Swedish rock sensation Grand Design. The song is a soft rock song all about broken hearts: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVVq3UVpaqg. SLEAZEROXX.COM PREMIERES TRACK FROM ZODIAC MINDWARP AND THE LOVE REACTION": Sleazeroxx.com will be exclusively streaming a track from Zodiac Mindwarp And The Love Reaction's new album "We Are Volsung" which is slated for an October 12th release via SPV/Steamhammer. The track entitled "Stark Von Oben" can be heard in its entirety at the following link: www.sleazeroxx.com/news10/0930zod.shtml. While you are there, be sure to check out Sleazeroxx's exclusive interview with ZODIAC and their review of the new album. They were the prime mover, they preached back seat education, and together with Alice Cooper they fed Frankenstein....now they are back....meaner, leaner and heavier than ever. Zodiac Mindwarp & The Love Reaction will enter a new decade of heavy dirty street rock n`roll as they declare "We Are Volsung". Inspired by the Nordic mythology the album features ten brand-new unadulterated. The album will be available in three formats: CD, LP and digital download. The band has just unveiled the cover art for "We Are Volsung" which can be seen above. SPV / Steamhammer are very proud to have the band on board for a journey to Valhalla and back. The album will be released in the North America on October 12th and followed by a US Tour in January /February 2011. In a musical world of hairspray and spandex, two long haired leather clad rockers were introduced to each other by their "exotic dancer" girlfriends; one, a graphic artist and poet, the other, a budding philosopher. They immediately dropped everything, joined forces and created the dirtiest, wildest band of all time. One year later, they signed to Polygram and released the ground breaking High Priest of Love EP, and the Tattooed Beat Messiah album shortly after, which contained the well received single "Prime Mover". Overnight, they accidentally changed the look of all the rock bands of the time from the obligatory spandex, eye liner and tinsel, to rough biker jackets, engineer boots and goatee beards. Mötley Crüe declared them to be their favourite band and immediately restyled themselves for their Girls, Girls, Girls record. ZMATLR grew in notoriety, touring the World and America, co-headlining arenas and theatres with Guns `N` Roses and finding themselves at home playing festivals and baseball stadiums with Iron Maiden. After attending a Hammersmith Odeon ZMATLR concert and giving it his seal of approval, Alice Cooper recorded the Zodiac Mindwarp penned "Feed My Frankenstein", which was later, performed in the film Wayne's World... The critical acclaim of ZMATLR then caused rare misfortune, when they lost their young naive bass player to the lures of The Cult. The band soldiered on regardless. Sometime later, in Paris, Slam Thunderhide, their drummer decided to put down his sticks to become a Go-Go dancer in Vancouver. Today with The Cat shaking the Earth on drums and Jack Shitt rumbling the low frequencies, they ride again, honing their skills playing for the Viking descendants in Scandinavia. From these tough, manly ordeals, a new set of recordings have been forged. "We Are Volsung" is the result, a celebration in the Norse tradition. Current Line-Up: Zodiac Mindwarp - vocals, Cobalt Stargazer - guitars, Jack Shitt - bass, The Cat - drums. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/zodiacmindwarp1 / www.myspace.com/spvmusic / www.sleazeroxx.com. JAMES KOTTAK TALKS RETIREMENT: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine talked exclusively to the SCORPIONS' drummer, James Kottak for the promotion of his solo album "Rock & Roll Forever" and the upcoming Scorpions concert in Athens, Greece. Here's an excerpt regarding Kottak's feelings toward Scorpions' decision to retire after this tour: Rockpages.gr: Scorpions have announced their split after the tour ends. Please let me know how you imagine the last show? Would James like something special for this show? James Kottak: You know this is a tough question because we have just started now on the tour and it is so far away that I imagine "this is really it", that's three years from now. It's hard to go. So it's like going on the high school, feeling great, what's going to be like on the graduation day? I don't know...shall I retire? I don't like it... Rockpages.gr: Which element do you believe, eventually, made thousands of people shed tears and faint in front of Scorpions' stage, which element made millions of people love Scorpions, some of them even if they don't deal with rock or metal music? Was it their composing craft, Klaus Meine's voice, the ballads, all this together or maybe something else? James Kottak: I don't know what it is but Scorpions is a kind of guitar thing, it's not narrow, it's Scorpions itself you can say it's a phenomenon. And the fans are so die hard. It's just crazy! They are so dedicated. Read The Full Interview on: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=4587&type=1&lang=EN. NEIL DIAMOND TO THE HALL OF FAME: There is an effort underway by a large group of Neil Diamond fans to generate support for his induction into the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame. He has been nominated and the voters will be casting ballots in the coming weeks. We have created a Facebook page to help gain exposure for Neil and to provide an outlet for fans to voice their support for him. Neil Diamond's influence on rock-n-roll is undeniable. Rockers such as Chris Cornell, Deep Purple, Kid Rock, Elvis Presley and Urge Overkill have all recorded Neil's material. Artists from other musical genres have covered his material as well. (Frank Sinatra, Tim McGraw, etc.) The "Induct Neil" Facebook page can be found at: www.facebook.com/pages/Induct-Neil-Diamond-into-the-Rock-n-Roll-Hall-of-Fame/118689468188771?ref=ts.

 

 

Saturday, October 02, 2010

SATCH PREVIEWS NEW WORMHOLE RELEASE: One of Rock Music's most renowned guitarists, Joe Satriani is giving fans an exclusive preview of his new album Black Swans & Wormhole Wizards ahead of its UK release next Monday (October 4). Joe has created a series of "webisodes" via his official website (www.satriani.com), explaining the thought process behind each track on the album. A new track will be previewed each morning leading up to the album's release next week. Click the link below to view tracks 1-7 from "Black Swans & Wormhole Wizards" and also to view today's new upload, "Two Sides to Every Story." - www.satriani.com/podcast/BSAWW/. You can pre-order "Black Swans & Wormhole Wizards" from Amazon UK here - www.amazon.co.uk/Black-Swans-Wormhole-Wizards-Satriani. Joe's UK tour kicks off on October 17 at the Manchester Apollo, dates includes Bristol, London, Newcastle, Glasgow and Birmingham, tickets – www.ticketline.co.uk. TESLA STUDIO DAMAGED BY FIRE: Sad news for Tesla fans, with their long used recording studio extensively damaged by fire - www.kcra.com/news/25222158/detail.html. "Sacramento recording studio of the rock band Tesla and an apartment building next door. The blaze broke out just before 2 a.m. at 1012 27th St. Some of the well-known band's memorabilia was lost. Firefighters salvaged musical instruments from the damaged studio. John Carlson, who was displaced by the fire, said he woke up as the blaze was breaking out. "The power kind of surged, and then it went off," he said. "And then we heard crackling, popping noises." Fire crews arrived within five minutes to find heavy fire and smoke coming from the two-story apartments, Sacramento Fire Department Capt. Jonathan Burgess said. Flames from the apartments jumped to the nearby two-story building that is home to the studio, Burgess added. The studio is located on the second floor. Burgess said firefighters had a hard time accessing the attic of the studio building because of its thick walls and ceiling. It took more than 86 firefighters more than an hour to extinguish the two fires, Burgess said. No firefighters or residents were hurt, but two cats died. The Red Cross responded to help five residents displaced by the flames. The cause is under investigation. The studio is run by the band's bassist, Brian Wheat. The group formed in 1984 and was known as City Kidd. Inspired by electrical engineer Nikola Tesla, the name was later changed to Tesla. The band hit it big with 1986's "Mechanical Resonance." NEW VIRGIN STEELE BLOG BY DAVID DEFEIS: New Virgin Steele blog by David Defeis: "Well....believe it or not...we have actually finished the album and sent it off to our label, Steamhammer SPV for publication/replication. It was a mad, wild time these past few weeks & days recording and mixing like banshees! But....we made it....A week ago seems like an entire lifetime ago. It seems like every possible situation and change of season has occurred in a matter of hours and days. I personally went through the full dynamic range of emotional upheavals possible....One minute I was on top of the World, the next completely beneath it....and everything in between. Through it all as we say here in the Land Of Steele....we remained...Invictus! As always when it comes time to actually part with an album and send it off into the World, I get very crazy. I always want to completely re-do it, to go back to the beginning and live with everything longer, but this of course is impossible. I am always frantic and rushed with every album, but this one was exceptionally challenging. Its birth was very much like how they did it in the long, long past, when people like Chuck Berry or Elvis would record a song, and then it would be immediately pressed and released only a few short hours later. After finishing these final mixes, I straight away began the process to send the album over to our label, so I really did not have the opportunity to live with these final mixes, listen back and adjust anything along the way....I trust that all turned out well and can only judge things from my initial gut reaction....which was that everything seems fine and nice and raw! In the end Life goes on and all projects must have their completion, and this one is now well on its way to landing in your hands soon. I hope you enjoy it....All of us here in the House Of Steele stand behind it, and think that it makes a very appropriate soundtrack to the coming Autumnal Season...We poured all of our blood, sweat, & energy into these tracks, and everything from $200 dollar scotch (a very nice gift from a Fan) to 7-ll coffee went into the making of it. May it empower you and take you on journeys both strange & beautiful.... Cheers & By The Black Sun & Moon." - David DeFeis September 27, 2010. The new album "The Black Light Bacchanalia" will be released in 4 formats with 3 different covers: Limited Edition Digipak incl. Bonus CD with 2 bonus tracks and a spoken history. Standard Jewel Version & Download. LP boxset incl. 3 LPs with printed inner sleeves, the standard jewel version, 10 page history booklet, poster, sticker and postcard (limited to 3.000 copies worldwide). Tracklisting: 01. By The Hammer Of Zeus (And The Wrecking Ball Of Thor), 02. Pagan Heart, 03. The Bread Of Wickedness, 04. In A Dream Of Fire, 05. Nepenthe (I Live Tomorrow), 06. The Orpheus Taboo, 07. To Crown Them With Halos Parts 1 & 2, 08. The Black Light Bacchanalia (The Age That Is To Come), 09. The Torture's Of The Damned, 10. Necropolis (He Answers Them With Death), 11. Eternal Regret. Bonus Tracks on the Limited Edition Digipak: 01. When I'm Silent (The Wind Of Voices), 02. Silent Sorrow, 03. From A Whisper To A Scream - (The Spoken Biography) – spoken by David DeFeis. Release Dates: Germany: October 22, Europe: October 25, USA/Canada: November 9. WebLink: www.virgin-steele.com / www.spv.de. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new features: - Heaven's Edge - Demos (US)(12 Tracks) - Heaven's Edge - Missing Pieces (US)(12 Tracks) - Breakout - Promo CD (Denmark,1997)(5 Tracks) - Asher (Demo, 1984)(4 Tracks) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, September 30, 2010

UK ROCKERS SKIN BREAK THE SILENCE: 11 years after calling it a day, Skin are back! The original quartet of Myke Gray, Neville MacDonald, Andy Robbins and Dicki Flizsar rocked us all with hits like 'Look But Don't Touch', 'Money' and 'House Of Love' and made three albums before calling it a day. Out of the blue, a chance to play Download in 2009 resulted in the band getting back together and blowing away everybody present. Due to the amazing reaction of the fans, Skin have decided for one last hurrah and made a stunning new record, aptly titled 'Breaking the Silence'. Featuring 11 brand new tracks, the band are selling it independently via their secure web-shop on their site www.skinfreak.co.uk. Myke explains to James Gaden in the upcoming edition of Fireworks 42: "We wanted to make a record that sounded like we did live. When the decision was made to make a new record I listened to all the albums and realised that the second and third albums sounded very different from the first. We wanted to go back to our roots and take it a step further - we wanted it to sound raw and real... We did have interest from a major label, it went as far as them listening to the songs and talking about producers, but the general consensus in the band was that we didn't want to sign to a label and have them telling us what to do, regarding touring, promotion, etc... we take the risk but in our minds it is worth it for control." The band have made an official video for one fo the new tracks, 'Born To Rock 'n' Roll', which features footage from their performance at Download 2010, which you can see here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Ld3iTd9b_Q. The song is available as a free mp3 from: www.skinrocks.info. An acoustic live album 'Up Close And Personal' of the performances that wowed audiences who saw them supporting the likes of Chickenfoot and Mr. Big is also available there, along with the 'Skin Reunited' DVD which offers a documentary about the band reforming, as well as their entire Download 2009 performance. 'Good To Be Back', also from the brand new album, features on the free cover-mounted CD with the upcoming Fireworks 42, as well as the full interview with Myke where he discusses the new record, reforming, Download, and the decision to finish off with a Farewell Tour in the UK in December. "We love Skin and our relationship with the fans is amazing - we have done it for two years now, to say thank you and hopefully have a happy ending to our legacy... This album was inspired by and is dedicated to all the Skin fans that gave us the time of our lives. This is our way of saying thank you - and without you we are nothing!" Fireworks 42 will be in WHSmiths across the UK from mid October and available from www.rocktopia.net. The purchasable PDF version of the magazine with the CD tracks as mp3s will also be available from right here at www.melodicrock.com shortly after the hard copy goes on sale. 'Breaking The Silence' tracklist: Good To Be Back / Don't Call It Love / Stronger / Can You Feel It? / The Book Of Your Life / When I'm With You / Trigger Inside / Indestructible / Redemption / Bad Reputation / Born To Rock 'N' Roll. Skin Farewell tour: Wed 8 Glasgow Cathouse Thu 9 Newcastle 02 Academy Fri 10 Manchester Academy 3 Sat 11 Norwich Waterfront Sun 12 Bristol Thelka Tue 14 Bournemouth Firestation Wed 15 London Underworld Thu 16 Birmingham 02 Academy Fri 17 Oxford 02 Academy Sat 18 Nottingham Rock City Support from Matti Alfonzetti (ex-Jagged Edge) acoustic and Toby Jepson (Little Angels) acoustic. Tickets available from www.ticketweb.co.uk or from links provided at www.skinfreak.co.uk.   SPRINGFIELD SWEDEN GIG BEING STREAMED LIVE NOW: Rick Springfield's classic live performance at this year's, Sweden Rock Festival is currently being streamed on P4 Live out of Sweden: sverigesradio.se/sida/default.aspx?ProgramId=488. Track Listing for this vibrant show was: Affair Of The Heart, Living In Oz, Victoria's Secret, Celebrate Youth, Venus In Overdrive, I'll Miss That Someday, Love Is Alright, Crossroads, Don't Talk To Strangers, Love Somebody, Human Touch, Jessie's Girl, Kristina. A LITTLE SPARE CHANCE GETS YOU RARE BOOKS: Press Release: "Rufus Stone Limited Editions is a brand new, high-end music book publisher. Quite simply we're passionate about music, books and publishing. We are a group of creative thinkers, working together to create a new publishing venture specializing in producing the best quality products that both fans and artiste would be proud to own. It's that simple. The market for "investment books" has grown over the last few years but this means limited edition high-end products can sell for £200 up to £3000. Even we think this is a little steep. Our approach is to generate high quality, bespoke content in short runs at a price point people can afford. Yes, they are still expensive but you are buying a product that can't be purchased on the highstreet, featuring hours of investment in intellectual content and the very highest production standards. Quite simply we only produce books and boxsets we'd buy ourselves. They will be works of art and they are vinyl sized as well (12" square). As the "label" grows we have plans for some exciting and unusual books. We'd like to work directly with a variety of artistes and bands at all levels with projects starting at just 250 copies. Of course, some of our titles will be gloriously unofficial but sometimes that makes for a better, more independent product. One of our USP's is the Hardkases range of books. Hardkases is a new type of collectible... a strictly limited edition book and goodies complete in a custom-built flightcase. Each book is carefully housed in a foam recess inside the flightcase, keeping it safe for years to come. A true collectors product, they are hand numbered and printed on the front with details of the title inside. We expect these editions to sell out fast, even though they cost a premium. Payment plans are available to customers who wish to pay over 4-6 months. We have launched with three titles, Ronnie James Dio – A Photographic Memoir by PG Brunelli, Whitesnake – The Definitive Biography by Simon Robinson, John Tucker and Nigel Young and The Beatles – Monochrome, a unique photo-documentary of the bands first American tour. We are already working on further titles and we are keen to work directly with bands, writers, photographers and license holders to bring new and unique products to the book market." The website URLs to browse and buy from are: www.rslimitededitions.com / www.hardkases.com. Rufus Stone Limited Editions is proud to announce the following releases: Ronnie James Dio - A Photographic Memoir by PG Brunelli Ronnie James Dio was one of rocks most respected and talented frontmen, renowned for his instantly recognisable vocals, lyrics and stagecraft. On May 16th 2010 Ronnie succumbed to cancer and the world of hard rock lost one of it's greatest talents. Renowned music photographer PG Brunelli traveled the world with Ronnie from 1983, photographing him onstage, backstage, at home and in the recording studio. This special, large format hardback book takes the best of PG's photography and weaves a memoir of Ronnie's life starting onstage at Donington Monsters of Rock in 1983. Together with unique written contributions from Bruce Dickinson, Rob Halford, Doug Aldrich and many of his peers, colleagues and fellow professionals. This book has been compiled with the knowledge and approval of Ronnie's wife, Wendy. Available in two limited edition versions, starting at just £40 (plus p+p) Ronnie James Dio - A Photographic Memoir is released at the end of November 2010. To secure your standard or Hardkase version (£150 plus p+p) early ordering is essential. £10 from the sale of the standard version and £30 from the sale of the Hardkase edition will be donated to the Stand Up and Shout Cancer fund. Whitesnake – The Definitive Biography The Whitesnake story is one of rock's most enduring and complicated stories. Formed by frontman David Coverdale after the demise of Deep Purple in the 1970's, the band has been on a rollercoaster ride ever since, attaining huge worldwide success in the 1980's with the multi-million selling "1987" album. This unique coffee table sized in-depth book traces the history of the band from humble beginnings playing Rafters in Manchester in front of 500 people to their current position as one of Classic Rock's most successful stadium acts. Written by Simon Robinson, John Tucker and Nigel Young, The Definitive Biography celebrates the success of Whitesnake with the full story, comprehensive discographies and an extensive gig list together with hundreds of rare and many unseen colour pictures, and memorabilia from across the band's career.  This huge volume, available in two strictly limited edition versions, including a 250 copy Hardkase edition, is a must for all fans of the band and will become a true collector's item in years to come. The standard edition (just 750 copies) costs £175.00 each and the Hardkase edition (250 copies) costs £225 each plus p+p The Beatles – Monochrome In 1964 the Beatles undertook their first tour of America, a two week visit that took in The Ed Sullivan show, playing live in Washington and New York before finishing in Florida with a second Ed Sullivan experience. Photographer Joe Allen followed them on the entire visit, taking hundreds of black and white images to document this historic first trip to the USA. For the first time, all of Allen's negatives have been scanned in hi-resolution, meticulously retouched and restored to better than their original glory and assembled in this huge, limited edition photo album. Beautifully printed and bound using the latest technologies Monochrome is destined to be a true collectors item in both it's standard and Hardkase edition. The Hardkase editions also includes 4 hand numbered giclee prints of each band member, re-coloured from the original negatives and never to be released in any form outside of this publication. The standard edition costs £175 and the limited Hardkase edition (350 copies only) costs £290.00 + p+p. WebLinks: www.rslimitededitions.com / www.hardkases.com. INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Bassist Paul Ranieri and vocalist Chandler Mogel from the band Dangered Ace checked in with Hardrock Haven to discuss the debut release GoTenGo; how the band was formed and why they are called Dangered Ace; why their music can be defined as Hard Swing playing live with the various musical elements in the band; and a whole lot more. To hear the interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/dangered-ace. TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest Podcast (episode #107), featuring Ex-TNT Vocalist Tony Harnell. Tony took time out of his busy schedule to discuss his new band The Mercury Train and their debut release Round Trip, as well their touring plans. Tony gives us the low down on life after TNT and more. Interview lasts approx. 40 min. It is still hard to believe that Mike Portnoy has left Dream Theater. I shudder to think what might happen to the band having just lost a key member. Yes, they're all talented, but Portnoy was such an integral part in this band's make up, that it will be hard to imagine them without him. Join Genghis and Ragman as they discuss the departure of Portnoy and the future of DT. Next, the boys rounded up former TNT lead singer Tony Harnell for a one on one as he discusses his current project, The Mercury Train, and their debut CD, Round Trip. Tony gives an in-depth look into the new CD and discusses the challenges of making an old song sound new. SCREW THE HALL OF FAME: Rush are named Live Legends: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/rush-0929/ "Despite being snubbed (again) by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Canadian rock legends Rush will be honored at the 2010 Billboard Touring Awards. The trio of Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart will receive the Legend of Live award on November 4 in New York City." THE BOSS HELPS OUT WAITRESS IN NEED: Lifted from: ThisDayinMusic.com. It could have been any other Friday night at Matt's Saloon in Prescott, Arizona. The beer was flowing, the band was playing and everyday folks were celebrating the start of a hard-earned weekend. Oh yeah, and Bruce Springsteen was there. No E Street Band, no Patti Scialfa, just an unannounced visit from The Boss and a few of his buddies, who had come from Los Angeles to northwest Arizona on their motorcycles. Springsteen bellied up and ordered a beer. Wearing a leather vest and a bandana around his neck, Bruce was enjoying drinking and talking with the regulars, according to Utah's Deseret News and Denny Orr, rhythm guitarist for that night's entertainment, The Mile High Band. Soon word got out and the crowd jumped "from seven or eight people to 80 or 90 in 10 minutes," Orr said. "It went nuts." Before long, Springsteen was on stage, playing with the band. Orr remembered seeing the rock star enter Matt's and "the next thing I knew, he said, 'Come on, boys. Let's jam.'" Bruce played with the band for about an hour, leading the guys through a bunch of rock and roll classics, including Elvis Presley's "Don't Be Cruel," Chuck Berry's "Sweet Little Sixteen" and the road-running gem, "Route 66." He also sang "I'm on Fire" – one of the seven Top 10 singles from his 1984 blockbuster, Born in the U.S.A. – with The Mile High Band. According to Orr, the band also asked him to play "Pink Cadillac" with them, but Bruce said he couldn't remember the words to his own hit song. The impromptu jam session wasn't even the coolest thing that happened because of Springsteen's visit. While at the country-western bar, Bruce had overheard the barmaid's sad story. Brenda "Bubbles" Pechanec had incurred some serious bills because of a medical issue. Even after leaving the bar that night, that tale must have made quite an impression on Springsteen. About a week later, a letter was delivered to the saloon, addressed to "Bubbles." In the envelope might have been the biggest tip ever given to a barmaid. Bruce had sent her a check for $100,000 to take care of her hospital expenses. The Boss had blown into town, rocked the house and left behind a legendary story. SWITCHBLADE SUICIDE'S JAPANESE RELEASE: Boston-based rock band Switchblade Suicide announces the release of their long-awaited EP Japanese Release, available now on iTunes & CDBaby.com. The four-song EP encompasses the band's uncompromising, unapologetic and unbridled rock sound with edgy vocals, sleazy guitar riffs and a solid rhythmic backbone. The CD features the single "Stronger," a runaway freight train of powerful rock melodies, harmonizing and edgy vocal sounds. This EP is a follow up to their debut, self-titled, three-song EP that released to rave reviews. A recent review on Sleazeroxx.com says: "Switchblade Suicide has stayed true to their sleazy '70s inspired roots on "Japanese Release" while expanding their sound ever so slightly. They kick things into high gear during "Stronger," "DFC" and "Sunset Rose" with an updated Little Caesar blueprint with gritty guitars, a strong backend and vocals that combine a bluesy delivery with hard rock." After a busy summer — including opening for Cheap Trick, Squeeze, and KISS — Switchblade Suicide is planning a series of acoustic shows in and around Boston for this fall. For information: www.switchbladesuicide.com.   DDRIVE GUITAR GIVEAWAY: DDrive will be hosting a special show at Nola's in Rochester, NY on October 23rd. This is a special show to introduce the recently released DDrive CD titled "3D". There will be a drawing to win an assortment of prizes from the DDrive vault with paid admission. Prizes include a DDrive CD Collection, T-Shirts, Nola's Gift Certificate & the Grand Prize - A brand new electric guitar autographed by DDrive (Courtesy of The House of Guitars) there is no opening act as DDrive will play 2 sets show kicks off at 10:00 pm for more information www.ddrive.com or www.nolasweb.com. PRESS RELEASE: NEW ALBUM SENT TO MASTERING: Progressive hard rock band Slaves To Fashion from Norway has just finished recording and mixing the new album, which is due to release later this year. The album has been mixed by Rudolf Fredly in Sweetspot studio in Norway and the tracks have now been sent for mastering to Mika Jussila (Masterplan, Nightwish, Stratovarius) in Finnvox studio in Finland. "The new album is progressive, heavy, melodic, dark and fashionable - and we can't wait to get it out there. Mr. Fredly did a great job mixing it and we're all excited to hear the final result from Mika Jussila", says vocalist Johannes Støle. More details about the album will follow soon. Slaves To Fashion on Internet: www.myspace.com/slavestofashion.

 

 

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

FM TO RELEASE CITY LIMITS EP OCTOBER 11: 2010 has been one hell of a year for FM so far. Their highly-acclaimed album Metropolis (released March 2010) continues to garner approval from fans and critics alike and tracks from the album continue to see regular airplay. Their May single "Hollow" was playlisted for a month on BBC Radio 2 and throughout the nation on regional radio. They have toured the UK to a great reception everywhere and were invited to play the Main Stage at Download 2010 in June with headliners Aerosmith. Their London show in July was Classic Rock magazine's 'Gig of the Week', and they featured heavily in the Summer issue of Classic Rock in the article "The Return of AOR – How Journey, FM & Foreigner made it back on the radio". FM will round-off a very successful year with 3 more regional shows in October; a return to London O2 Academy Islington on December 1 and an appearance on the Main Stage at Hard Rock Hell IV in Prestatyn on December 3. All this and the release of a stonking new 9-track mini-album too! Released via Riff City Records, the City Limits EP will no doubt please fans old and new. Lead track "Bring Back Yesterday" (from this year's Metropolis album) has been playlisted on BBC Radio 2, receiving plays on the Chris Evans and Steve Wright shows amongst others. Also included on the mini-album are 5 tracks from Metropolis recorded live at FM shows this summer. Fans will be champing at the bit to hear brand new song "Start It Up" and a breathtaking new acoustic version of "That Girl" (originally released on the band's début album Indiscreet and still one of their most popular songs, regularly included in their live set). The mini-album concludes with one of DJ Juppy's (drummer Pete Jupp) tour de force extended mixes of lead track "Bring Back Yesterday". City Limits EP is released on October 11 and will be available to download from all good internet retailers. The CD may be purchased from the FM webshop at www.fmofficial.com from October 11. Those wishing to get their hands on a copy prior to the general release date can do so as the EP will be sold at the band's forthcoming October UK live shows. Full track-listing: Bring Back Yesterday (Radio Edit); Start It Up; That Girl (Acoustic Version 2010); Wildside (Live); Hollow (Live); Metropolis (Live); Over You (Live); Flamingo Road (Live) and Bring Back Yesterday (City Limits Extended Mix) *** Soundclips can be heard on the Fmofficial Media page *** Oct 6 Newcastle O2 Academy2 www.ticketweb.co.uk 0844 477 2000 Moonlight Valentino Oct 7 Manchester Club Academy www.ticketline.co.uk 0161 832 1111 Madison & Rollin Thunder Oct 8 Buckley Tivoli www.seetickets.com 0870 264 3333 Whiskey And Lace Dec 1 London O2 Academy Islington www.ticketweb.co.uk 0844 477 2000 Airrace Dec 3 Prestatyn Hard Rock Hell IV www.seetickets.com 0870 264 3333 Applications are now open for Meet & Greets to be held at the October FM shows. Full details on how to apply can be found at www.fmofficial.com.   MAGNUM'S NEXT VISITATION: Magnum's next studio album The Visitation will be released January 17, 2011. The Rodney Matthews artwork has been unveiled at the band's website (www.magnumonline.co.uk) in the form of a promo spot seen below.   IT'S AN AFFAIR OF THE HEART FOR RICK SPRINGFIELD FANS: Press Release: "Connected through powerful music, witness first-hand a timeless love affair that has bonded rock icon Rick Springfield with multiple generations of fans from around the globe for over 30 years. Rick Springfield has been writing and performing music for more than four decades. To date, he has sold over 19 million records with 17 Top-40 hits. He has performed for millions of devoted fans over the past three decades and continues to play over 100 shows a year. Rick Springfield continues to attract new fans wherever he goes with his unique brand of audience interaction, unstoppable energy, and unforgettable songs that have become part of the soundtrack to people's lives. In addition, he is an accomplished actor who has performed on Broadway, headlined in Las Vegas, and starred in numerous movies and television series; most recently, he played a twisted version of "himself" in Showtime's hit Californication. Follow the Yellow Rick Road as we gain an all-access view of Rick Springfield's life today and the lives of a few of his most devoted fans. Our film crew is currently in full production mode and will continue shooting through the end of 2010 (making stops throughout the USA, Europe, Canada, on Rick's upcoming Late, Late at Night book tour, and concluding on the 3rd Annual Rick Springfield & Friends Cruise). The film is scheduled to be released in 2011 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Working Class Dog, the album that included the #1 hit "Jessie's Girl." Right now, you have a unique opportunity to become a member of the YRR's VIP Virtual Crew and witness the process of making this landmark film. As a VIP Crew Member, you will have access to exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and stories about this talented musician and his loyal fans. You will also be entered into private contests, have the opportunity to communicate with YRR Producers and other VIP Crew members on a private message board, and be privy to information not available anywhere else. Plus, your VIP membership fee will help fund the production costs involved in making this film. We appreciate your interest and your support of this project. Please tell your friends to follow the Yellow Rick Road, too. WebLink: rickspringfielddoc.com. And don't forget Rick's Autobiography Late Late At Night coming up in just under 2 weeks time - "In a searingly candid memoir which he authored himself, Grammy Award-winning pop icon Rick Springfield pulls back the curtain on his image as a bright, shiny, happy performer to share the startling story of his rise and fall and rise in music, film, and television and his lifelong battle with depression. In the 1980s, singer-songwriter and actor Rick Springfield seemed to have it all: a megahit single in "Jessie's Girl," sold-out concert tours, follow-up hits that sold more than 17 million albums and became the pop soundtrack for an entire generation, and 12 million daily viewers who avidly tuned in to "General Hospital "to swoon over his portrayal of the handsome" Dr. Noah Drake. Yet lurking behind his "success as a pop star and soap opera heartthrob" "and his unstoppable drive was a moody, somber, and dark soul, one filled with depression and insecurity. In "Late, Late at Night," the memoir his millions of fans have been waiting for, Rick takes readers inside the highs and lows of his extraordinary life. By turns winningly funny and heartbreakingly sad, every page resonates with Rick's witty, wry, self-deprecating, brutally honest voice. On one level, he reveals the inside story of his ride to the top of the entertainment world. On a second, deeper level, he recounts with unsparing candor the forces that have driven his life, including his longtime battle with depression and thoughts of suicide, the shattering death of his father, and his decision to drop out at the absolute peak of fame. Having finally found a more stable equilibrium, Rick's story is ultimately a positive one, deeply informed by his passion for creative expression through his music, a deep love of his wife of twenty-six years and their two sons, and his life-long quest for spiritual peace."   "ANVIL!: THE STORY OF ANVIL" TAKES HOME A NEWS & DOCUMENTARY EMMY® AWARD: VH1 was awarded the News & Documentary Emmy® Award in the "Outstanding Arts and Culture Programming" category last night for its VH1 Rock Doc Anvil! The Story of Anvil. It's the second time that the critically acclaimed VH1 Rock Docs franchise has won a News & Documentary Emmy® Award in five Emmy® nominations. Other nominees in the category included "Finishing Heaven" (HBO); "No Subtitles Necessary: Laszol and Vilmos" (PBS); "Woodstock: Now & Then" (VH1 & History Channel). The awards were presented by the National Academy of Arts & Sciences (NATAS) in a ceremony held at Frederick P. Rose Hall, Home of Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York. "Anvil! The Story of Anvil" is the directorial debut of screenwriter Sacha Gervasi ("The Terminal") and was produced by Rebecca Yeldham ("The Kite Runner" and "The Motorcycle Diaries"). The film follows Kudlow, Reiner and their band, Anvil, which released one of the heaviest albums in metal history, 1982's Metal on Metal. The album influenced an entire musical generation of rock bands, including Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax, who all went on to sell millions of records. Anvil, on the other hand, took a different path—straight to obscurity. The film is both entertaining and touching as it follows their last-ditch quest for the fame and fortune that has been so elusive to them. "Anvil! The Story of Anvil" is a timeless tale of survival and the unadulterated passion it takes to follow your dream, year after year. "Anvil! The Story of Anvil" contains appearances by an array of heavy metal icons, including Metallica's Lars Ulrich, former member of Guns N' Roses' Slash, Anthrax's Scott Ian, and Slayer's Tom Araya, among others. The overwhelming response and incredible buzz created by the film paved a stellar comeback for Anvil guitarist Steve "Lips" Kudlow and drummer Robb Reiner who started the band 30 years ago. During its theatrical run, "Anvil! The Story of Anvil" garnered extraordinary support from the public with continual updates on social networking websites, Twitter postings and declarations of, "You must see this film!" not only from fans, but from celebrities unconnected to the film such as Dustin Hoffman, Mandy Moore, Keanu Reeves and John Mayer. Features in Newsweek and Rolling Stone, and a national television appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! shined a cultural spotlight on Anvil, propelling them to the opening act slot for also the opening act for AC/DC's Black Ice World Tour at the Gillette Stadium show on July 28th and the Giants Stadium show on July 31st, 2009. "Anvil! The Story of Anvil" is part of VH1's Emmy Award-winning VH1 Rock Doc franchise.  VH1 Rock Docs are high-end feature-length documentaries that each reveal an untold story in the history of rock and hip-hop music, combining never-before-seen footage with a unique and unconventional narrative approach.  The documentaries tell some of the most unique stories of artists and music from a wide range of genres, styles, and musical perspectives. "Anvil! The Story of Anvil" was executive produced by Rick Krim, Brad Abramson, and Shelly Tatro and Warren Cowan served as supervising producer for VH1. SHOTGUN SYMPHONY DIGITALLY RELEASES DEBUT CD: For those who cannot witness Shotgun Symphony performing their entire classic debut CD October 30th at Firefest, you can now for the first time download the CD in its entirety from Amazon, iTunes, eMusic, Rhapsody, and many more starting today. This self-titled debut received rave reviews in industry bibles such as Kerrang and Burrn!, and is considered by some as "possibly one of the greatest debut albums of the melodic rock genre". Also available will be the bands 1997 release "On The Line Of Fire" and 1999's "Sea Of Desire". For up to date information on these releases and the moments leading up to Firefest 2010, visit www.shotgunsymphony.net and www.myspace.com/shotgunsymphony2010. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: New CD Showcases have been added for the following new releases: Unruly Child, Strangeways & Asia Live (Frontiers Records, October 15 release); Stratosphere (Escape Music, October 22 release); White Widdow (AOR Heaven, October 29 release) and Bangalore Choir (AOR Heaven, out now). Check them out now.

 

 

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

NELSON ANNOUNCE THE RELEASE OF THEIR NEW ALBUM LIGHTNING STRIKES TWICE: On September 29, 1991 Nelson reached the height of the US Single charts with their evergreen hit "(Can't Live Without Your) Love And Affection". Their music has stood the test of time and now 20 years later Matthew and Gunnar Nelson explore fresh creative territory in the present with their new album, Lightning Strikes Twice scheduled for first release in Europe on November 5, with US and Asian release to follow. Magical melodic songwriting and soaring sibling harmonies continue to ensure that this dynamic duo is still a vital part of the music scene's future. The new album goes straight back to the absolute brilliance of Nelson's first album, hence the title and an amazing set of songs that are going to restore the faith in Nelson. "After the Rain" was the debut multi-platinum album by Nelson in the early 1990s. They zoomed to number one with their hit song, "(Can't Live Without Your) Love and Affection," which made history landing America's iconic Nelson family (bandleader Ozzie Nelson, rock legend Rick Nelson, and twins Matthew & Gunnar) into the Guinness Book of World Records as the ONLY family in Entertainment with 3 successive generations of #1 hitmakers. Nelson's "After the Rain" record and tour became a phenomenon just prior to the rise of grunge. The last major success of the good time rock'n'roll era, Nelson has had (1) Number One, (4) Top Ten, and (5) Top 40 Billboard Hot 100 hit singles, plus (5) #1 MTV videos and has sold over 6.5 million albums worldwide! Nelson has always been synonymous with entertainment in America. Matthew and Gunnar follow Ozzie Nelson's vision of embracing connecting with people and audiences through all forms of media. They have been doing television-hosting work for VH1 and E! Gunnar is also a standout reality TV star with VH1's "Celebrity Fit Club". Plus, Gunnar co-hosted Lifetime Radio's nationally syndicated morning show. A&E channel's Nelson Family "Biography" episode is still one of the top-rated 'Biography' installments. Matthew & Gunnar embraced this fascination by creating a touring show to celebrate the TV Nelsons and the amazing career of their legendary father, Ricky, for whom Life magazine coined the phrase "Teen idol". They share video clips & tell stories about their Hollywood family and perform their Pop's music live to audiences in Ricky Nelson Remembered while separately touring as Nelson. Nelson has been headlining at major rock festivals around the globe celebrating the 20th anniversary of "After the Rain". Touring in China, the U.K. and of course the U.S. where they have also toured extensively with Peter Frampton and Styx. In October 2010 the band will head to the UK to headline day 2 of the Firefest festival appearing with label mates Jimi Jamison, Lynch Mob, Strangeways, Pretty Maids amongst others. A world tour at the beginning of 2011 will follow. "'Lightning Strikes Twice' has allowed us creatively, artistically and musically to resolve some unfinished business," Gunnar says. "We've had a blast going into the studio writing and performing some of our best songs. Plus, being back on the road with Nelson is living the dream all over again. New fans are discovering our music and original fans have shown incredible support all over the world. It ROCKS!" Matthew adds, "Who could believe we would be doing a Nelson sequel to 'After the Rain" twenty years later? Gunnar and I feel it's our best work to date and should live up to its name 'Lightning Strikes Twice'. We believe Nelson fans will agree with that forecast and hope they feel it's been worth the long wait." "Lightning Strikes Twice" tracklisting includes: Call Me; Day By Day; Ready, Willing and Able; How Can I Miss You?; You're All I Need Tonight; To Get Back To You; When You're Gone; Take Me There; Come; In It For The Money; Change a Thing; Kickin' My Heart Around. The first single "You're All I Need Tonight" and "Call Me" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Musicians on "Lightning Strikes Twice" include: Gunnar Nelson: Lead Vocals, Guitars; Matthew Nelson: Lead Vocals, Bass; With special guest appearances: Gary Corbett: piano, keyboards; Brian Burwell: drums; David Morgan: piano, background vocals; Steve Lukather: guest guitar on "To Get Back To You". Weblinks: www.myspace.com/officialnelson / www.nelsonkicksass.com / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx YNGWIE MALMSTEEN RETURNS WITH KILLER NEW 'RELENTLESS' ALBUM: "Shred guitar" and "neo classical metal" are two phrases that have been commonplace in the world of heavy metal for decades by this point, but both can be attributed to the unmistakable work by Yngwie Malmsteen. Ever since the early 1980's, Yngwie has been pushing the limits of guitar, and influencing countless other players in the process. And he continues to impress to this day, as evidenced by his forthcoming album, Relentless, the highly anticipated follow-up to 2008's critically acclaimed 'Perpetual Flame' (Yngwie's first album for Rising Force Records). The album is the second to feature ex-Judas Priest and Iced Earth singer Tim "Ripper" Owens, and features over 60 minutes of incredibly complex, kick ass arrangements. "This title truly is the right one for this album", explains Yngwie. "I mean, after all these years, some kind of force is driving me to create something that totally surpasses everything I've done before. I tried to capture the raw energy of a live performance, yet push myself to the most demanding level of playing and composing to harness that elusive magic that can't just be switched on. All the way out, caution to the wind, but disciplined performances was what I went for. Maybe I did it too, check it out!" Confirmed song titles for 'Relentless' include "Relentless," "Look At You Now," "Shot Across the Bow," "Adagio B Minor Variation," "Caged Animal," "Critical Mass," "Into Valhalla," "Enemy Within," and "Caprici Di Inferno." Bursting onto the scene with such classic releases as 1984's 'Rising Force,' 1985's 'Marching Out,' and 1986's 'Trilogy,' Yngwie instantly made a name for himself, by recreating the spirit of celebrated composer/musician Niccolo Paganini, but within the realm of heavy metal guitar. Soon, countless other guitarists were copying Yngwie's style...but there is simply only one Yngwie. Yngwie's career continued to thrive throughout the world, including such additional triumphs as his totally classical work for orchestra and solo electric guitar, 'Concerto Suite,' which proved once and for all that his classical credentials were genuine. Yngwie continues to receive accolades worldwide, such as recently being selected as one Time Magazine's "Top Ten Greatest Electric Guitar Players" (amongst the stellar company of Les Paul, Jimmy Page, and Jimi Hendrix). A respected musician among both his peers and his fans, Yngwie continues to play and compose at a level of mastery that many career musicians only dream of. 'Relentless' is a must-have, which will appeal to all Yngwie fans and rock music fans alike. Prepare yourself for a 'Relentless' classical metal attack! For more information, visit: www.yngwiemalmsteen.com / www.myspace.com/yngwiemalmsteen. XYZ TO FILM LIVE DVD/CD IN DENVER COLORADO: 80's rockers XYZ return to Denver after a 17 year absence to play the legendary club Bangles, Friday October 22nd. In what promises to be an amazing night, the band has decided to document the evening! Singer Terry Ilous stated: "Hello everyone, we will shoot a live DVD and record a live CD that night…XYZ Live In Denver…so its simple…in order to be 'in' that at night, you will have to dress up totally 80's, It should be a lot of fun…Girls, mini skirts and white pumps. Guys, well I don't know, hide your beer guts ha ha." XYZ also features Pat Fontaine on bass, Tony Marcus on guitar and Joey Shapiro on drums. Joey is a veteran of the Denver hard rock scene and was a regular at Bangles playing with his band Dirty Boys. In fact, it was playing there that landed him the gig with XYZ when they were touring the country as a 3 piece doing acoustic shows back in 1992. Sharing the bill that night are some of Denver's top hard rock acts: The Dark, Lil' Dreamer and Bone Circus. Tickets are $12.50 online or $15 day of the show. You can buy them at davidbproductions.com until 10/21. Brought to you by David B Productions. Bangles @ The Sangria Lounge. 4501 E Virginia Ave, Glendale Co. 720-941-0138. H.E.A.T FESTIVAL NEWS - LIMITED V.I.P TICKETS ON SALE: Special Festival V.I.P Tickets for the HEAT festival available. They are limited to 30 tickets and the price is € 150,-. It includes: - Festival ticket for both days - V.I.P. Festivalshirt - Food and drinks for free on both days in the catering area of the bands - Possibility to meet the bands there - The first three songs in the photo/press area in front of the stage to shoot some photos If you already bought a ticket, you can pimp it up to a V.I.P ticket with € 110,. First come, first serve. The tickets are available only through the festival website - www.heat-festival.de. The H.E.A.T Festival takes place in Reichenbach/Fils near Stutgart/Germany on October 16th & 17th at the venue h20. Saturday, 16th: Wig Wam (N), H.E.A.T (S), Soul Doctor (Ger), Bad Habit (S), Bangalore Choir (Usa), Bai Bang (S), Markonee (I) Sunday, 17th: Axxis, playing classic set (GER), O'Hrenfeindt (Ger), Hartmann (Ger), Subway (Ger), Subsignal (Ger), Wicked Temptation (Ger), Redlight Ballerina (Ger).   LISTEN TO LIBERTY N' JUSTICE'S NEW SINGLE "CHASING A CURE": This song was written for Trinity Paige Murr, who was diagnosed with epilepsy 5 years ago, and is in the process of defeating this horrifying disease. Through proceeds and donations, Liberty N' Justice hopes to raise awareness and encourage families who feel hopeless. The song features Benny Mardones, John Pine and Bill Leverty of Firehouse. More details and the release date of Liberty N' Justice's new 5 song EP, "Chasing A Cure", coming soon. The song and a video featuring Trinity and be viewed at....www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gclYSY6MPw.

 

 

Monday, September 27, 2010

AVENUE OF ALLIES – NEW RELEASES OCTOBER 2010: Avenue Of Allies is proud to announce three brand new releases, all due out on October 15 via www.avenue-of-allies.com. This time we cover the Melodic Hard Rock, AOR and Classic Rock genres with bands hailing from the Mediterranean area: Fabri Kiareli's F.E.A.S.T - Rise (2010 / Avenue 10 10 0018) / A Hard Rock debut from Italy rich in variety. Melodic and metallic, energetic and balladic. Feat. Alessandro Del Vecchio (Edge Of Forever, Glenn Hughes, Eden's Curse). www.feastrock.com / www.myspace.com/feastrock. F.E.A.S.T. is the brain child of Italian born singer and guitarist Fabri Kiareli. The debut album "Rise" of Fabri Kiareli's F.E.A.S.T. showcases the musical influences of its main man, ranging from straight ahead Heavy Rock anthems ("Fire And Dynamite", "Feed The Hunger", "(Ain't Done) 'Til It's Over") to Classic Rock power ballads ("Broken Dreams", "Cold Hearted") and from fast paced Metal tracks "Win Or Lose"), to the epic masterpiece "The Meaning Of Life" and the Melodic Rock hymn "Follow The Way", a duet with Alessandro Del Vecchio (Edge Of Forever, Eden's Curse, Shining Line, Axe, Glenn Hughes, Bernie Marsden). While Fabri handled most of the instruments on "Rise" himself, except for the drums, he has now put together the band line-up of F.E.A.S.T., including Lukino "Luke" Ballabio (guitar), who also played the guitar solo on "(Ain't Done) 'Til It's Over", Angelo Perini (bass) and Mao Granata (drums). Together they will present the album live in Italy and beyond. Soundbytes - Fire And Dynamite / Feed The Hunger / Follow The Way.   xx Perfect View - Hold Your Dreams (2010 / Avenue 10 11 0019) / Italian Newcomer on the heels of Toto, Saga and Winger. Keyboard laden AOR spiced up with rocking guitars, brilliant melodies and fabulous harmonies. Great musicianship and a crystal clear sound courtesy of Roberto Priori (Wheels Of Fire, Los Angeles, Killing Touch). www.perfectviewtheband.com. The work on the songs for Perfect View's debut album "Hold Your Dreams" was a collective effort with contributions coming from each musician. The finished recordings were eventually mixed and mastered in the spring of 2010 by Roberto Priori (Wheels Of Fire, Los Angeles, Killing Touch) at his PriStudios in Bologna, Italy. The big sounding songs showcase the musician's high level of instrumental skills and Massimiliano's powerhouse high pitched vocals that evoke thoughts of Tony Harnell, Tony Mills and Rob Moratti. After just a few bars of the opener "A Better Place" you know that the band was successful with their task to balance great melodies and vocal harmonies with hard rocking guitars while giving the keyboards lots of space to shine in many different colours. To get hooked to the sound of Perfect View just listen to the radio-ready midtempo track "Closer", the Toto-like AOR of "Believe" or the power ballads "A Reason To Fight" and "Where's The Love" with their symphonic arrangements. To keep up the interest of the listener there is always a certain complexity added to songs like the title track, "I Need Your Love", "Speed Demon" and "Showtime", similar to what Extreme did on their "Three Sides To Every Story" album and what Saga managed to achieve on most albums during their long career. Soundbytes - A Better Place / Closer / Hold Your Dreams.   xx Fire - Ignite (2010 / Avenue 10 12 0020) / The 2006 debut album of the Maltese Melodic Hard Rockers. Internationally available for the first time, incl. two bonus tracks, one of them the classic Bryan Adams track "Run To You". Finest Classic Rock for fans of Y & T, Thunder, Gotthard, Whitesnake and Krokus. www.firemalta.com / www.myspace.com/firemalta. After the the successful international release of Fire's second album "Thrill Me" in the fall of 2009, Avenue Of Allies now presents the band's debut album "Ignite" as an expanded CD re-issue. Originally only released on the band's home island of Malta, the new version includes two exclusive bonus tracks, that haven't been available on CD before. The first one is a newly recorded version of the Bryan Adams classic "Run To You" featuring the trademark Fire-sound. Rounding out the album is "Miss You This Christmas", a track which was originally sent out to Radio stations on Malta back in December of 2007. The story of Fire began around 1998 with the band mainly playing Classic Rock covers. As time went by the band started to write its own material and in 2006 they finally released their first album "Ignite". The record also included the two previously released singles, with "Manhunter" being one of the albums highlights with its infectious hookline and catchy chorus. Another song with a massive sing along refrain is "Home And Dry", written by Joe Mizzi, a friend of the band, who also contributed one song to the band's follow-up album "Thrill Me". The album opener "Get Out Of My Way" is another straight ahead Rocker showcasing the characteristic Fire guitar riffs and the Hammond organ in the background. And it's a cut you won't get out of your head once you've heard it. A different side of the band show the Classic Rock power ballad "Goin' Down" and the dark and more complex, but still catchy Rock epic "Conspiracy Theory". Soundbytes - Get Out Of My Way / Manhunter / Goin' Down.   xx DUE FROM FRONTIERS IN SEPTEMBER: The latest promo spot for Frontiers Records can be viewed below:   BCC MAKES CHART WAVES: Black Country Communion's self titled debut album has charted at #13 in the Official UK Top 40 Album Chart - www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/chart/albums. The album has also hit #1 in Official UK Top 40 Rock Album Chart (www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/chart/rockalbums) and #2 in the Official UK Top 40 Indie Album Chart (www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/chart/indiealbums). The album, produced by Kevin Shirley (RUSH, Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, Black Crowes), features vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes (Trapeze, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath), award-winning guitarist Joe Bonamassa, drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin, Foreigner) and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Billy Idol, Dream Theater). Having recently performed a secret concert to a select audience of 160 people in London on September 20th, BCC are finalizing details of concerts in the UK this December. DAVID REECE TALKS CADENCE: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine talked exclusive with Bangalore Choir's singer, David Reece, about the band's comeback record "Cadence". Reece commented, also, on Accept's new record with Mark Tornillo on vocals. Here's the excerpt: Rockpages.gr: Accept reappeared with a new singer (Mark Tornillo). Did you have the chance to listen to the album and would you like to tell us what do you remember from the short time that you were the band's frontman? David Reece: I've heard it but honestly don't like it. My short time with Accept was a good and bad thing…the best part was it gave me the opportunity to showcase my work so I'm grateful for that. Read The Full Interview on: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=4585&type=1&lang=EN.

 

 

Friday, September 24, 2010

THE POODLES TO RELEASE A LIVE CD AND DVD TO START FRONTIERS DEAL: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of The Poodles live package including the No Quarter CD and In The Flesh DVD on November 5. Having carved in stone their reputation as prime time entertainers with the release of three acclaimed studio albums and over 350 shows in the entire Europe in the past few years, not counting Gold and Platinum record awards in their home country, The Poodles close the first chapter of their musical adventure and set their sails for the next step. As a tribute to the first years on the road, The Poodles offer the fans a live package including a CD and a DVD recorded during the "Clash of the Elements" tour in 2009, which portrays the band in the most natural environment: the live show. "The high points for us as a band is anytime we go on stage", says guitar player Henrik Bergqvist. "This may sound like somewhat of a cliché but it is no less true. It doesn't matter if we play a crowd of 10.000 people at Graspop or in front of a handful on a rainy November Monday in Copenhagen, those are the moments we relish and live for. We've had so many special moments on stage over the past couple of years that it seems impossible to single even a few of them out. Having said this, some special moments can certainly be seen on the live DVD and heard on the live CD". "We are very proud of how the live CD and live DVD turned out and we feel that they really shows what the band is like on stage" continues Bergqvist, "being able to watch a DVD of your favourite band is great and there are a few really nice ones out there, but the connection that takes place between the band and the crowd during live shows cannot be formatted to the screen. You can catch a glimpse of it, but to experience a band live will always be different from listening to or viewing a recording of that band. Have a look and see for yourselves, though!" Aptly titled "In The Flesh" the DVD is a real in deep look at the Poodles style of life with in-deep interviews, that present each band member, behind-the stage instant footage and a collection of the promo videoclips shot for the "Clash of the Elements" promotion. In addition, a selection of the band's classic cuts performed live shows that the Poodles are delivering the goods when the play live. The live cd, soundtrack of the DVD, plus the song "Lullaby For Jimmy" as cd exclusive, shows that behind the look and the words there is a solid band playing great music! Henrik concludes: "The future plan for The Poodles is closely connected to the band's cooperation with Frontiers Records. The band expects to play for an ever expanding audience as a result of it and take the mission of Heavy Metal to virgin lands. We want to see our beloved fans again on the road and make new friends too. The future is bright for us, and that's good because we already wear shades!" The live CD "No Quarter" track listing includes: Too Much Of Everything; Caroline; Seven Seas; Metal Will Stand Tall; Like No Tomorrow; One Out Of Ten; Lullaby For Jimmy; Drum Solo; Echoes From The Past; Thunderball; I Rule The Night; Night Of Passion; Flesh & Blood; Line Of Fire.   xxx The Live DVD "In The Flesh" table of contents include: Movie: Introduction; Stockholm, Party & Fun; About The Poodles; Metal Standing Tall; The Director & Crew; Being On Top; Jakob; Henrik; Pontus; Kicken; The First Five Rows; Tribute To The Fans; End Credits. Concert: Too Much Of Everything; Caroline; Seven Seas; Metal Will Stand Tall; Like No Tomorrow; One Out Of Ten; Echoes From The Past; Thunderball; I Rule The Night; Night Of Passion; Flesh & Blood; Line Of Fire. Extras: Like No Tomorrow (Video); I Rule The Night (Video); In The Flesh (Video); Warrior (The Movie Trailer); Majestic Film And Metal Warriors. The DVD will be released in NTSC Region Free format with Screen 16:9 and Mix in 2.0. There will also be a limited release of a luxury packaging including the live CD "No Quarter" and the DVD "In The Flesh" is a luxury digipak edition. The songs "One Out Of Ten" and "Caroline" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web Radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/thepoodles / www.poodles.se / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords. "In The Flesh" trailer can be enjoyed following this link on Youtube:   MORE UNRULY CHILD PREVIEWS: Right at the very top of my playlist for several weeks now is the new Unruly Child. I am absolutely addicted to this marvelous album of intelligent song writing and intricately crafted melodies and hooks. So no better time than to preview another 3 tunes from the album World's Collide, due for release October 2 via Frontiers Records. Check out: Insane / Love Is Blind / Read My Mind.   MELODICROCK RECORDS UPDATES: MelodicRock Records recently announce two new releases for October - All I Know (Belgium) and Degreed (Sweden). Both albums are released October 22 for pre-orders and in-store October 29. I will continue to offer free full length downloads with each release to help folks sample the bands in their best light. If you haven't checked out the MelodicRockRecords releases yet, here is some links to the free tracks on offer. Additional Soundbytes for all can be heard at: www.melodicrockrecords.com. Purchase and pre-order at: www.melodicrockrecords.com/store.   Degreed - "Life, Love, Loss" (MRR004) Pre-Order Now $15 Release Date: October 29. Pre-Orders Ship: October 22. Free Download: Arms Of Misery All I Know - "Vanity Kills" (MRR003) Pre-Order Now $15 (+2 Bonus Track Downloads) Release Date: October 29. Pre-Orders Ship: October 22. Free Download: Rain Fenrik Lane - "317" (MRR002) Available Now $15 Free Download: MRR EP (01. Megalomania, 02. Call Her Name, 03. Cover Your Eyes, 04. Hot Lips, 05. Going Nowhere) Jimi Jamison & Jim Peterik - "Extra Moments" (MRR001) Available Now $15 ONLY 40 UNITS LEFT!! Free Download: Cry Of The Wild Heart Harem Scarem - "The MelodicRock EP" Available Now $9 ONLY 10 UNITS LEFT!! Free Download: Human Nature "ROCK MEETS CLASSIC" WITH STEVE LEE, IAN GILLAN, DAN MCCAFFERTY, LOU GRAMM: In January 2011 the original singers from Deep Purple, Foreigner, Nazareth and Gotthard will go on tour on the 2011 edition of "Rock Meets Classic". Ian Gillan (Deep Purple), Lou Gramm (Foreigner), Dan Mccafferty (Nazareth) and Steve Lee (Gotthard) will perform some of their hits in "a Classical and rocking way". They will be backed by the RMC Band under musical supervision by Mat Sinner, and the Bohemian Symphony Orchestra Prague under musical supervision by Philipp Maier. TourLink: www.tourneen.com/index.php?option=com_bc_events&task=event&view=main&Itemid=120&id=731. A ROCK N ROLL EBOOK FROM AUSSIE GUITARIST/AUTHOR: "The Crunge was a dance conjured by Jimmy Page, guitarist of Led Zeppelin. The steps were impossible to execute. Jimmy Fukstaak, the central character of the novel The Crunge, leads a life as awkward, ridiculous, funny and sad as that dance. The manuscript is a roman à clef of the Sydney underground rock scene in the late 1980's and through the 90's. Many followed the grunge fashion. Some lived the life. There's an incessant flow of Twelve Step confessionals from successful rockers, but what happens to the far more common resultants of gambling all for the life: the ones who don't make it? Jimmy escapes poverty and abuse and Canberra after the death of a close friend. Finding himself homeless and centless in Sydney's Kings Cross, he is taken in by the unlikely benevolence of the petty street crims. Establishing somewhat of a living there, he finds himself joining a hardcore punk rock band. From there Jimmy pursues a career in inane, unenjoyable sex, alcohol, marijuana, speed, and heroin abuse. And rock n roll. Searching for love and comfort, and meaning, Jimmy barks with humour and melancholy up continuous wrong trees. All the while doing the recording and gigging dog-paddle in the sea of punters and bands that make up the Sydney inner-city rock circuit. Until things really have to change. He joins the army, thinking the discipline and implied health will transform him. There is a transformation of sorts, but Jimmy is running away from things that exist universally. A scaring injuring sustained in Southeast Asia sees him discharged, and left with more psychological scaring than he went into the army with. But life improves. Jimmy finds music again. Finds family. He even almost finds love. And redemption. But there's always that omnipresent monster: addiction. The Crunge may make some readers cringe; but despite his rather deep flaws, Jimmy Fukstaak draws compassion." Quarterpipe Records is stoked to release our first digital novel / e-book - especially one as drenched with sex, drugs, rock n roll as The Crunge. Truly never a dull moment in these 209 pages. Award winning author Damian McDonald was formerly the bass player for Sydney hard rock bands Detriment, & Money Tree Seeds, and as such his many references to the venues & characters of the 90's Sydney hard rock scene ring true throughout. The Crunge can be downloaded in PDF format for AU$8.00 (works just fine on your iPhone or iPod Touch): www.quarterpiperecords.com/Talent/Damian%20McDonald/Damian%20McDonald.htm. PROG ROCK KEYBOARDIST LISA LARUE RECRUITS GUITARIST MITCH PERRY FOR 2KX CD: Muskogee, OK - Prog rock musician/keyboardist Lisa LaRue has recruited guitarist Mitch Perry for her CD release "Fast and Blue" by 2KX. Gold records, sold out concert tours, MTV video and network TV appearances, numerous magazine features and recognition in the form of several guitar awards - over the last 25 years, Mitch Perry has accomplished all of the above in a career working alongside some of the most renowned and popular musicians in the world. Mitch's discography and touring experience reads like a who's who of rock ranging from Aerosmith to Michael Schenker Group to Cher and Edgar Winter. He is currently the guitarist for Asia Featuring John Payne. His performances both live and in the studio show him to be a truly world class guitarist. Perry has added his riffs and licks to one 2KX song and may be recruited for more dependent on additional funding resources. The "Fast and Blue" CD by 2KX will be packaged as a souvenir 'magazine' containing a DVD with the title track's video, the trailer for the "Fast and Blue" CD. and all video blogs as well as the music CD. A sneak peak video blog is currently available for viewing at www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfGeW8r9rw. The video for the song "Fast and Blue" will be uploaded to Facebook and YouTube on November 1 along with the single being available for sale on the same day at www.lisalaruemusic.com. The tentative release date for the full-length CD is February 14, 2011. Fans can be involved in the 2KX project and reap rewards for doing so via funding resource Kickstarter. For information on pledging to this project, please visit www.kickstarter.com/projects/885666456/native-american-musician-creating-with-the-world-2. Those who pledge to the project could qualify to receive a song written by LaRue for them or a loved one as well as numerous other rewards for their participation. LaRue has already recorded tracks with co-producer John Payne (Asia featuring John Payne), Maxi Nil (Visions of Atlantis), Steve Adams (ARZ), Mike Alvarez (Bass Clef Experiment), and Merrill Hale (ARZ). A song sample is available at www.reverbnation.com/lisalarue. Other musicians in the project include David Mark Pearce (Oliver Wakeman Band), along with LaRue on keyboards. Additional musicians to be announced. To be a part of this project, have the satisfaction of making a dream come true though quality music that will last through the ages, and at the same time reap rewards for yourself, visit www.kickstarter.com/projects/885666456/native-american-musician-creating-with-the-world-2. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with another selection of classic unreleased demos from the likes of: - Only Child - Demos (US 89) (13 Tracks) - Autograph - The Demos (14 Tracks) - Angeline - Demos 1989 (9 Tracks) - 1 Way Street - Demos 1990 Help support MelodicRock.com by joining MelodicRock-Xtra: MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, September 23, 2010

AOR HEAVEN SETS NOVEMBER 19 RELEASES: Poison Sun - Virtual Sin / Release Date: 19.11.2010 / Imagine a merciless rock riff, blazing hook, mixed up with one (female's) voice that could even melt the coldest iceberg: when the hot new band Poison Sun dives into VooDoo on their vigorous debut feature Virtual Sin, it only takes a few seconds for bedlam to break loose! This new band dishes out Metal, the way since this musical divinity was created - with no thrills, but yet, irresistible. You don´t have to be a prophet or have any clairvoyancy (ESP) to predict an overwhelming entrance onto the world stage, for this band! Don´t be surprised by Poison Sun's lead singer. Martina Frank's voice, with its rough, low-key and melodic singing will fester your ears, the way you like it. Martina Frank is THE rock and roll diva prototype, the kind we haven't heard much of lately and is certainly one of a kind even on the international level. Her very bones are wrapped up in Rock, Blues and Metal, but listen in to her sensitivity, when she delves into the sensible tunes that grabs, displays her expressions. Martina Frank has worked in sound studios and has earned praise as a back up singer for bands like UFO, Jane and Weinhold. Now the time is ripe for her own new band, teamed up with Hermann Frank. Poison Sun is a Hannover based band that enriches the German metal scene with their own let-loose and vital versions of traditional power metal. The brains, producer and (along with Martina) songwriter of Virtual Sin, is Herman Frank, a well established professional for profound riffing and virtuosic solo styles. The duo Frank/Frank as the driving catalyst can create songs for Poison Sun divined to become simplistic Groove-Monsters. Especially noted should be the energetic sound that Herman Frank's Arena 20 studio has waived it's magic hand over. By their side are the notable bassist Stefan Hammer and drummer Florian Schönweitz which round out the band Poison Sun. Both of which were previously active in the Munich Metal band, Silent Decay. Both take on the task of capturing the ten songs with the essential groove. A case, that the rhythmic duo conquer and excel the occasion. You will praise them, when their songs, dripping with brute force, blast through your speakers. Whether it's the headbanger tunes like Rednex or Rider in the storm, or foot-stompin´ marches like Hitman and Virtual Sin or the poetic hymns a la Princess and For Ever, or even the breath-taking rendition of the Pointer Sister's classic Excited: Poison Sun will grab your wicked metal soul, which ever direction they'll lead you. Perhaps we should shout it from the rooftops, this band with their undeniable debut album will be the album that the world will be bowing down to, within the next few months. Will we be worthy of this jewel dawned upon the metal world? We are worthy… Line-up: Martina Frank – Lead Singer, Herman Frank – Guitar, Florian Schönweitz – Drums, Stefan Hammer – Bass. Soundfiles in advance: Killer - Red Necks - Voodoo. WebLinks: www.poisonsun.de.   xx Michael Bormann - Different / Release Date: 19.11.2010 / Michael Bormann explodes into the music scene with his latest greatest fireball Different. This great record, loaded with 12 fine, diverse songs includes tons of radio singles. "Different" clearly demonstrates that Bormann is a dynamic "one of a kind - artist" in today's music industry, capable of going in many different AOR musical directions as the album not only includes a mix of typical AOR but also some fine acoustic tracks, powerful uptempo songs and wonderful ballads. Bormann proves his fantastic songwriting skills once again. Even though he played almost everything by himself, he also had a little help from some of his long-time companions Andreas Rippelmeier, Chris Ivo, Eric Ragno, Lanvall and Marco Grasshoff. The fact that the singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer spent most of the time alone in the studio, corresponds with the intransigence on Different. Different, produced with intense hammerhead commercial appeal, touches the very core of the soul that leaves devoted fans blown away and takes us into a new heart-felt journey that shows a different side of the great artist Michael Bormann, who is headed into astronomical success as a heavy hitter crossover artist. Soundfiles in advance: Breathless - Life Is A Miracle - To The Top. WebLink: www.michaelbormannpage.de.   xx LION MUSIC ANNOUNCES OCTOBER 15 RELEASES: Keyboard virtuoso Mistheria returns with an all star cast for the neo-classical progressive metal tour de force Dragon Fire. Home to 13 tracks of full on metal pomposity, this is music crafted around stirring vocal melodies and impassioned first class musicianship. The virtuoso meter of the personnel involved sets a new standard and fans of artists such as Symphony X, Malmsteen and Artension will find this a sheer musical delight. The grandiose music on offer has its home within the classical music masters but the metal charge brings Dragon Fire firmly into the present day. Yet this is more than musical virtuosity. Mistheria has taken great care to produce songs first and foremost with catchy vocal melodies and big choruses and just one listen will prove that he has succeeded in his aim producing captivating compositions. After demos for the album had been made the personnel was then hand selected by Mistheria to bring out the best in each track with the highest calibre musicians within the genre chosen to do justice to his songs. The vocalists comprise of John West (Artension/Royal Hunt), Rob Rock (Impellitteri/Solo), Mark Boals (ex Malmsteen/Ring Of Fire/Royal Hunt), Lance King (Balance Of Power) and Titta Tani (ex Astra / Ashent). Each vocalist's unique style has been selected for the appropriate track to deliver Mistheria's vision. The same process was used for the guitarists with George Bellas (solo/Ring Of Fire), Neil Zaza (solo), Roger Staffelbach (Artension/Angel Of Eden) and Emir Hot (solo) plying their virtuoso guitar work which blend beautifully with Mistheria keyboards to recreate the classic guitar/keyboard pairing in all its glory. The bass was ably handled by Alberto Rigoni (Twinspirits) and drums come courtesy of John Macaluso (Ark, TNT, ex Malmsteen) whose performance is full of high-power heavy grooves and tons of energy making this one of his best performances to date. Yet despite the number of musicians involved there is an impressive sense of cohesion to the material all thanks to the quality of Mistheria's initial vision shining through in all aspects. Even the sound of the album has produced and mixed to his own personal taste. Mistheria comments, "Since I only wrote vocal melodies and lyrics for Dragon Fire and vocal melodies for Eye of the storm songs (although I gave ideas for the others), all singers involved influenced the songs prominently with really great lyrics and melodies. John Macaluso's job on drums has been nothing short of astonishing starting from my programmed drums guideline. The guitarists moved on my own demo ideas as well as Alberto Rigoni on bass and their job has been simply perfect. Ivana Greguric wrote a song exclusively for the album (The Beast) and her work is really remarkable." Track Listing: 01. Dragon Fire. 02. Lies & Deception. 03. Killing The Pain. 04. Two Of Us. 05. Metal Opera pt.1: A.D.1982 06. Metal Opera pt.2: Eye Of The Storm. 07. Now It's Never. 08. Fire & Flames. 09. Prelude 18 In F min. 10. Chopin Fantasy. 11. The Power Of One. 12. The Beast. 13. A Beautiful Dream. Musicians: Mistheria – Keyboards, Piano and Keytar. John West – Vocals on 1, 3, 7, 11 & 12. Rob Rock – Vocals on 2. Mark Boals – Vocals on 6. Lance King – Vocals on 4. Titta Tani – Vocals on 1, 8 & 13. George Bellas – Guitar on 2, 4, 6 & 10. Neil Zaza – Guitar on 7. Roger Staffelbach – Guitar on 3, 11 & 12. Emir Hot – Guitar on 8. Alberto Rigoni –Bass. John Macaluso – Drums. Official Web Links: www.mistheria.com / www.reverbnation.com/mistheria / www.myspace.com/mistheria / www.lionmusic.com/cd/dragonfire.htm.   xx Guitar virtuoso Michael Harris returns after the successful Orchestrate album ready to take on a fresh new challenge in his every widening musical vocabulary. Enter Tranz-Fused which is Harris' first all fusion instrumental recording; although this isn't just jazz fusion in its purest sense as it incorporates prog, metal, blues and some funk elements as well. Despite the change of musical expression one thing remains the same - the stunning guitar work of Michael Harris. Michael's musical goal with making the album was first and foremost strong songs with melodies that hold up as well as a little wackiness. In a performance sense Michael has delivered a strong yet tasteful vibe with effective dynamics. Sonically Michael has gone for a more stripped down approach with less overdubs and making use of cleaner guitar sounds, old school fusion keyboard and some guitar synth sounds as well as a dose of effects such as octave and ring modulators for true authenticity. Influences for the album have come from the likes of Clint Strong, John Scofield, Pat Martino, Al DiMeola, Scott Henderson and Jeff Beck. Joining Michael for the album is a stellar supporting cast of bassists Adam Nitti, David Harbour, James Martin and Bunny Brunel. Drums come from Mike Haid and Marco Minnemann whilst Bernard Wright delivers a keyboard solo on Seizure Salad. On his fellow musicians Harris comments; "I was grateful to have a roster of great musicians on the record, who all brought chops, style, dynamics, and substance to the table!" Tranz-Fused is a welcome return from one of the instrumental scenes best loved players. Track Listing: 01. Seizure Salad. 02. Wizard of Odd. 03. Rocket Surgery. 04. Blue Shift. 05. Left of Right. 06. Nitrous Oxide Strut. 07. Professor Grunklesplat's Math Assignment. 08. Pathos. 09. Prosthetic Brain 10. Ocean Blues. Musicians: Michael Harris – Guitar, Guitar synth, Keyboards; Adam Nitti – Bass; David Harbour – Bass; James Martin – Bass; Bunny Brunel – Bass; Mike Haid - Drums; Marco Minnemann – Drums; Bernard Wright – Keyboard solo on Seizure Salad. Official Web Links: www.michaelharrisguitar.com / www.myspace.com/michaelharrisguitar / www.lionmusic.com/cd/tranzfused.htm.   xx WHISPERING JACK IS BACK: John Farnham's comeback album is titled Jack and is a mix of new material and cover versions. Featuring a photograph of a tanned Farnham, Jack will be in stores on October 15. Farnham premieres the first taste of the album, a mash-up of Ray Charles's 1961 hit Hit the Road Jack and Peggy Lee's 1956 anthem Fever, on tonight's Footy Show. [Just been to air and sounded much as expected - jazzy pop]. He will also perform another track from the album, a Percy Sledge song called 24-7-365. Producer Ross Fraser said the album bears Farnham's nickname because it "represents him so well" and pays homage to Ray Charles. "Ray Charles was one of two people John grew up worshipping, along with Stevie Wonder," Fraser said. "It's melodic, a bit of soul, a bit of blues, a bit of pop. I don't feel we've had such a deep record song-wise since (1990s) Chain Reaction. Right to the last song they're good songs." Farnham began recording the album in July in South Melbourne's Armstrong studios. Fraser said it was Farnham's first album since 2005's covers set I Remember When I Was Young. "He was in the studio on the first day before any of us and was the last to leave... Once he decides he's going to make a record everything else stops." The album includes a song written by hit maker Steve Kipner, Love Chooses You. In a statement Farnham said he had enjoyed recording the album. "Going back into Armstrong studios... was like going home to record." Farnham starts his new tour on October 4 in Sydney. NewsLink: www.heraldsun.com.au/entertainment/john-farnham-does-it-once-more-with-feeling/story-e6frf96f-1225928234830. Track Listing: Love Chooses You, You Took My Love, Hit The Road Jack/Fever, 24-7-365, Nobody Gets Me Like You, You Don't Know Me, Love Me Like You Do, Today, I'm The One Who Loves You, Love Come Knockin', Sunshine.

 

 

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

SHOWDOWN TIME FOR ALLEN/LANDE: Frontiers Records is excited to announce the release of the third chapter of Allen / Lande project entitled The Showdown on November 5. Allen / Lande represents the finest expression of Melodic Metal nowadays. With two world renowned singers, Jorn Lande (of Jorn and Masterplan) and Russell Allen (of Symphony X) sharing lead vocals, this project has become a staple among the fans of Hard Rock and Melodic Heavy Metal music. The first chapter of Jorn Lande and Russell Allen's collaboration, "The Battle" was unleashed in September 2005 with unanimous acclaim from fans and critics alike. Many websites and magazines named it "Record of the Year". Its success made it one of the most popular releases ever in Melodic Heavy Metal, thanks to beautiful, sweeping piano and keyboards, heavy guitar riffs, virtuoso guitar solos, hooky choruses and the vocal talents of two of the finest Heavy Metal vocalists around. In spring 2007, the second chapter entitled "The Revenge" was released and met again with an amazing reaction from press and fans. Heavier and with a tighter production, thanks to the involvement of Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69, Angra, Place Vendome) at the mix, the album excited the fans who loved the first chapter. Now it is the turn of "The Showdown", the anticipated third album of the studio project. "With two of the best singers in the business it's easy to get inspiration to write good music" says the mastermind of the project, Swedish guitar player, songwriter and producer Magnus Karlsson, who adds "When it was decided that Russell and Jorn were going to sing on the first album I knew that if I could just write great songs and get the right mix it would have a very good chance to be a success". Musically "The Showdown" sounds like "A mix of both previous releases with "The Battle" being more Melodic and "The Revenge" which was more in the Hard Rock direction", according to Karlsson, who concludes "I'm more satisfied than ever with the songs and performances, but also because the mix by Achim Kohler (Primal Fear) is by far the best I ever had on any album!" "The Showdown" cover art was designed once again by Rodney Matthews (Asia, Magnum, Diamond Head etc.) and includes the following tracks: The Showdown; Judgement Day; Never Again; Turn All Into Gold; Bloodlines; Copernicus; We Will Rise Again; The Guardian; Maya; The Artist; Eternity; Alias (bonus track). The video clip shot for the song "Judgement Day" with Jorn Lande's lead vocals can be watched on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=E60LkuqedMc. The songs "Judgement Day" and "The Showdown" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web radio from September 21. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. The album will be exclusively be available in the CD Digipack edition (first pressing), limited vinyl and digital download. Allen / Lande: Jorn Lande: vocals, Russell Allen: vocals, Magnus Karlsson: guitars, bass, keyboards, Jaime Salazar: drums.   xxxxxx SOMETHING DIFFERENT DUE FROM MICHAEL BORMANN: Vocalist Michael Bormann (Jaded Heart, Rain, Redrum) has completed work on his new solo record, to be titled Different. The album will be released on November 19 via Digital Outlets and on CD at your usual favourite online vendors. Track Listing: 01 Life Is A Miracle, 02 To The Top, 03 Think Twice, 04 Somebody 05 Mr. Rock N Roll, 06 My Favorite Time, 07 Breathless 08 Don't You Tell Me, 09 Wouldn't Let You Down 10 Who Really Wants To Get Older 11 No Way Out - It Hurts, 12 Was Mir Fehlt.   NEW FROM PROGROCK RECORDS: ProgRock Records have made the following announcement: "Hello Prog fans! Summer may almost be over, but it's still hot in the Prog world! There's a brand new studio album from Manning and some excellent pre-orders for new releases, including Pure Reason Revolution, the High Voltage festival live CD's from Marillion, ELP, Asia and Argent, and Steven Wilson's new double DVD, amongst others. And some exciting new items now in stock, including Tinyfish, Glass Hammer, Ark, K2, The Windmill, Oceansize, and many more. Hope you find something you like." Full information about all of these releases can be found on the label web site at: www.progrock.co.uk. KANSAS MERGE ROCK AND SYMPHONIC SOUNDS ON JUST-LAUNCHED TOUR: As first reported several months ago, world renowned classic rockers Kansas have launched a highly anticipated "Collegiate Symphony Tour" (Presented by D'Addario), which in turn would help raise funds for school music programs. And the lads are certainly proving that they are men of their word, as this past weekend, Kansas played to two packed houses at the University of Alabama. Additionally, the band was honored as musical guests during halftime at the Alabama vs. Penn State game (which Alabama won, 24-3). With a mammoth crowd of 106,000 looking on, spectators were treated to renditions of two Kansas classics performed by Alabama's Million Dollar Band - "Carry on Wayward Son" and "Point of Know Return." Video of the pep rally where band were guests and over 40,000 attended can be found here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELN21WI4rgY. "We were extremely excited to have the opportunity to feature the members of the band Kansas as guests of the University of Alabama Million Dollar Band during the halftime show of the Alabama vs. Penn State football game," says Alabama's School of Music Director, Skip Snead. "These guys are one of the best-known, iconic groups of classic rock and it was a treat for the marching band members and all of the fans to have them introduced and honored during halftime." Adds Kansas drummer Phil Ehart - "Standing in the middle of that stadium, surrounded by over 100,000 people, and the Million Dollar Band blasting away on 'Wayward Son' and 'Point of Know Return' was truly one of the most unique experiences of my life. It was goose bump time!" During the 1970s, Kansas went on to become one of the decade's most popular rock acts. The band - which is comprised of singer/keyboardist Steve Walsh, guitarist Rich Williams, bassist Billy Greer, violinist David Ragsdale, and drummer Ehart - continue to rock on to this very day. With the success of the Alabama shows under their belt - 'Kansas Collegiate Symphony Tour' may point to the band's future. And Ehart agrees with this assessment - "This is going so well, that other schools are contacting us for 2011 and 2012. City orchestras are even calling us about doing the same for them. Kansas has always been a symphonic rock band. We have found our niche!" Confirmed 'Kansas Collegiate Symphony Tour' dates and venues: September 17, 2010 - University of Texas - San Antonio (Laurie Auditorium - San Antonio, TX) September 18, 2010 - Wichita State University (Hartman Arena - Park City, KS) September 23 & 24, 2010 - Oklahoma State University (Stillwater High School Performing Arts Center - Stillwater, OK) September 25, 2010 - Hardin-Simmons University (Behrens Chapel Auditorium - Abilene, TX) October 9, 2010 - Truman State University (The Family Arena - St. Charles, MO) For More Information, Visit: www.kansasband.com. ONE LAST CHANCE FOR PINK FLOYD FANS?: Dave Gilmour, Roger Waters, Nick Mason and Rick Wright of Pink Floyd, perform at the Live 8 concert in Hyde Park in London July 2, 2005. Pink Floyd frontman Roger Waters has revealed the British group are edging closer to another one-off reunion for a major charity show, but there will never be a full tour. The rocker recently teamed up with ex-bandmate David Gilmour for a low-key charity gig in England and now admits he's considering another get together which will mirror the band's stunning Live 8 reunion in 2005. Since then, Floyd stars Syd Barrett and Rick Wright have died and Waters insists the time is right for another spectacular. He tells Rolling Stone magazine he's still fired up about the four-song Live 8 show five years ago, and is keen to repeat it. He explains, "I'm so thankful that we managed to do that 18 minutes together, that the four of us (Waters, Gilmour, Wright and Nick Mason) got to draw some kind of a line under it." And he admits his renewed friendship with former foe Gilmour has really helped: "Things have gotten better since then (Live 8) between David and I. We don't see each other socially - he very much lives in the middle of the countryside in England, and I very much live in Manhattan, so our paths don't cross, but, when we end up being in England, we'll probably have dinner... (and) there's no fussing and fighting going on. David and Nick and I might do a one-off (show) somewhere, but there's no way we're going to do a tour... (Maybe) like a Live 8 but probably just with us. It's such a shame that we didn't get around to it before Rick died." And Waters' plans have been echoed by drummer Mason, who insists he's ready for a reunion that will be Pink Floyd's swansong: "We played Live 8 which is hopefully a template for something we could do again. It might almost be better if we really kept it as something to be used for good. I think that would be a rather nice way to finish the Pink Floyd existence... just doing a show for the right reasons." NewsLink: www.torontosun.com/entertainment/music/2010/09/16/15371771-wenn-story.html. MELODIC BRIEFS: Two new interviews have been posted on www.LazyRocker.com: One with Annica Wiklund (her album Badly Dreaming came out in 1988). And Aino Laos (released albums as LAOS). Gibson.com news of the day - Gibson's Top 50 Guitar Solos of All Time ­ 40-31: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/top-50-guitar-solos-0921 / Legendary Guitarist Rik Emmett's Blog Launches: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/rik-emmett-0921 / Steven Tyler: Turning Japanese for First Solo Project?: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/steven-tyler-0921 / Ozzy Osbourne's 'Wit And Widsom': www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/ozzy-0921. Dust and Bones will release the follow-up to Voodoo on Feb. 26th, 2011. The CD is called Rock N Roll Show. 12 strong melodic rock songs! CD will distributed through Perris Records. Voodoo is available at www.perrisrecords.com under new releases. Check out the band's webpage at www.dustandbonesroxxx.com for news, videos and music! Rocknation just interviewed Greg Fraser (Fraze Gang) along with Tony Harnell. Sammy Hagar photo feature of his latest tour with Aerosmith in Houston, TX. All posted online at Rocknation newspaper issue 14. Link: www.rocknation.us/issue14. Radioz is the first Spanish band to gain the services of producer Michael Voss. Their single has 3 songs: 1. Muertos Despiertos, 2. Perdido, 3. Awaken. The single will be available on October 2010 and the band are recording it between Alicante (Estudio Sacramento - Spain) and Münster (Kidroom Music - Germany). www.myspace.com/radiozombi. GARY SCHUTT TO OPEN FOR GRAND FUNK & RICK SPRINGFIELD: Solo artist and former Jeff Scott Soto band mate Gary Schutt will open for Grand Funk Railroad and Rick Springfield on Saturday November 13th. The day is part of a three day outdoor music and food festival called Ribfest. It takes place every year at the Vinoy Park in beautiful downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. Gary opens the Saturday events on the mainstage from 2:00 for 3:15 p.m. and will have special guest vocalist Todd Plant (Cryptic Vision) do a couple classic covers with the band. Grand Funk and Rick perform later on in the evening. Friday headlines Dave Mason and The Doobie Brothers. Sunday headlines Lee Brice, Phil Vassar and Eric Church. Gary's band will perform over an hour and will feature brand new and classic original songs from Gary's 8 album arsenal, plus a few surprises. Merchandise will be available including new t-shirts and a limited release of his brand new CD Contingency Plan (formerly to be titled Catharsis). The new CD will only be available at the concert and nowhere else for now. Gary was recently voted runner-up 'Best Intrumentalist ­ Guitar' in the Tampa Bay magazine Creative Loafing's 'Best Of the Bay' 2010 readers poll. For more info on Ribfest, visit www.ribfest.org. Everything Gary Schutt, visit www.garyschutt.com. FREEDOM CALL TOUR DATES: New video and "Ride Of The Shadowking" - Tour announcement / After their successful tours with Gamma Ray and Axel Rudi Pell in spring and the great reception on the summer festivals the band played in Germany, Switzerland, France and the Czech Republic, Freedom Call are now more than ready to embark on their biggest headliner tour ever. Together with several great support acts Chris Bay & Co are hungry and willing to show the fans what they can do best: enter the stage and play like madmen. The set list will be a mixture of all their albums with a more dominant aspect of their latest album "Legend Of The Shadowking". To promote the tour and the album Freedom Call shot a video for the song "Thundergod" which shows the energy of the band wih a story behind the song. So put on your metal jackets, go to the shows and do the ride of the shadowking! www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGOcRqR2UHc. Freedom Call "Ride Of The Shadowking" - Tour 2010 25.09. F-Eloyes – Escape Culturell (plus Mob Rules) 09.10. NL-Kerkrade - The Rock Temple (plus Orden Ogan) 10.10. D-Bochum - Zeche (plus Kissin`Dynamite + Orden Ogan) 27.10. SE-Växjö - Folkets Hus 28.10. SE-Linköping - Atmosfär 29.10. SE-Gothenburg - Sticky Fingers 30.10. SE-Västeras - Sigurdsgatan 25 04.11. UK-Bournemouth – Champions 05.11. UK-London – Purple Turtle 06.11. UK-Manchester – Satan`s Hollow 07.11. UK-Wakefield – Snooty Fox 08.11. UK-Glasgow - Classic Grand 20.11. D-Kaufbeuren – Allkarthalle (plus Kissin`Dynamite) 27.11. CZ-Zlin – Winter Masters Of Rock 2010 02.12. SE/FIN-Stockholm/Turku - Sabatonkryssen 22.12. D-Aschaffenburg - Colos-Saal (plus Orden Ogan) 28.12. D-Andernach - JUZ Live Club (plus Kissin`Dynamite) 29.12. CH-Pratteln - Z7 (DVD recordings) WebLinks: www.freedom-call.net / www.spv.de. TOUR BUS GETS SHIPROCKED: DJ's Ralph Sutton and Stacy X, from Envision Radio Network's syndicated radio show The Tour Bus, recently aired their annual Shiprocked Cruise special featuring artists from this year's November 11-14, 2010 voyage. The interviews can be heard at: tourbusradio.xstarmedia.com and include discussions with: Clint Lowery from Sevendust, Niki Barr from the Niki Barr Band, Brian Vodinh from 10 Years, Vince Neil, CJ Pierce from Drowning Pool, Jason McMaster of Broken Teeth, Sarah Anthony from The Letter Black, Fred Coury of Cinderella, Ben Wells from Black Stone Cherry, Lynam's Jacob Lynam, Dave Rude of Tesla. In his return from 2009, The Tour Bus' Ralph Sutton will be co-hosting Shiprocked with Kayla - satellite radio's Heavy Meatal Siren heard on the Boneyard, Octane and Message Amped - making for a virtual one-two punch of today's great rock radio voices. SITE VIRUS ISSUE: Apologies for the downtime in the last 24hrs. A spambot-delivered Trojan virus make use of a weakness in an old portal left open on my server and got through to the frontpage of this and the www.melodicrockrecords.com site. This site is now 100% clear and any gateways for future attacks have been closed. MRR site is being fixed currently for those looking to place orders for CDs. I'll be at the post office again tomorrow for those interested in new releases Fenrik Lane and MRCD7.

 

 

Monday, September 20, 2010

ESCAPE MUSIC WALK DOWN STEELHOUSE'S MEMORY LANE: Escape Music are pleased to announce the re-issue of two truly classic albums of recent years - Steelhouse Lane's Metallic Blue and Slaves Of The New World. This Re-mastered Special Limited Edition Digipack Double CD with Bonus Track is out November 19. Track Listing: Disc 1: Metallic Blue: Metallic Blue / Surrender / Addicted / Find Your Way Home / Dr. Love / Still / Best Years Of My Life / Can't Fight Love / Feel My Love / Fire With Fire / Can't Stop / Brighter Day Disc 2: Slaves Of The New World: Give It All To Me / Find What We Are Lookin' For / Son Of A Loaded Gun / Turn Around / Slaves Of The New World / All I Believe In / Into Deep / The Nightmare Begins / All Or Nothin' / Seven Seas / Where Are You Now. Plus bonus track: If Love Should Go. Steelhouse Lane is: Mike Slamer – Guitars / Keith Slack – Lead Vocals / Drums - Barron DeWayne / Chris Lane – Guitar / Alan Hearn – Bass. Backing vocals: Chris Thompson, Tony Fields, Keith Slack. Mike Slamer is a legend in his own lifetime, in his early career he found fame with British band City Boy; the song 5705 should probably register with most people who grew up in the early eighties! City Boy recorded several albums and they were one of the best British Rock pop bands that the country ever produced. The band Streets saw him work with Kansas main man Steve Walsh, a band that produced two great recordings. Mike has worked with Billy Greer, also of Kansas, and recorded two albums as Seventh Key. He has also recorded a solo CD and has been involved with many a production. In the late nineties, MTM music released Two CDs by the fantastic Steelhouse Lane, a band that featured Mike, and also Keith Slack, later to front Taz Taylor band. This brace of recordings from 1998 and 1999 respectively are raw slices of hard melodic rock. Metallic Blue was recorded in 1998 and features 12 tracks of brilliant melodies and superb guitar playing from Mike himself. In 1999 the band stepped up a notch to record Slaves of the new world, a special recording indeed that gives us another 11 tracks of excitement. This music is hard melodic rock of the very highest order, and with a bonus track on offer then this makes this nostalgic package something to savour. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   xx JOHN WAITE CLOSING IN ON NEW STUDIO ALBUM: Directly from John Waite via johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl/johnwaitethegreatest/2010/09/info-on-new-album-2011.html: "John is putting the finishing touches on his brand new album, which is scheduled for an early 2011 release in Europe and the U.S. He recorded half of the record in Nashville and recently wrapped additional recording sessions in Los Angeles with members of his band. Several of the songs were co-written and produced with Kyle Cook, lead guitarist of Matchbox 20. Stay tuned for an album title, track listing and more details soon. Some of the titles we can share: Evil, Lonely, Gone, Keys To The Highway, and probably a remake of Hanging Tree." MIKE TRAMP RECORDS HYMN FOR RONNIE: Mike Tramp, former frontman of White Lion and Freak of Nature. Have together with his Rock'n'Roll Circuz band, created a beautiful tribute of epic proportion, to the late Ronnie James Dio. The song clocking in at almost 9 minutes long, takes you through a magical journey of RJD's life, and you will be left breathless at the end. The track will premier September 27th on Eddie Trunk's satellite Radio show in USA and Canada. And immediately following the broadcast, fans will be able to download the 9 minute track from www.eddietrunk.com exclusively for the following week. There after Mike Tramp permits anyone to place the song on their website for free download. The song and "Download-Player" will be available from www.miketramp.com. Tramp wrote and recorded the song while recording his new album 2nd Act, with his rock'n'roll circus, due out next year. Tramps says that the song always needed to stand by it self and never felt that he could include it in any form for commercial album. This song belongs to all of Ronnie's fans, it's not just a tribute, it's a Hymn, something much more sacred to fit the man with the true voice of rock'n'roll. Tramp got to tour with Dio in 1993 and speaks of Ronnie as a gentle man who wouldn't hurt a fly and who spoke from the heart and made you feel welcome in his company. Tramp is an enormous Rainbow fan because of Ronnie James Dio and the same goes for Sabbath. Ronnie brought so much melody to heavy metal, it was a great change. Tramp says that with Ronnie gone, so is the space and throne he occupied, and no one can and will replace him or even fill his shoes. Now let's keep his rock'n'roll alive, always. Ronnie R.I.P. Written by: Mike Tramp, Performed by: Mike Tramp & The Rock'n'Roll Circuz, Keyboards by: Tony Carey original Rainbow keyboard player (the Dio years), Recorded at Medley Studios Copenhagen, Denmark by: Soren Andersen, Mixed by: Michael Voss, at Kidroom-Music, Germany. Free download from www.eddietrunk.com September 27. Check out www.miketramp.com for further news. LET THE MADNESS BEGIN TOUR 2010: Fozzy, the band featuring WWE Wrestling Superstar Chris Jericho and Stuck Mojo mastermind Rich 'The Duke' Ward have announced that due to overwhelming public demand they will return to Australia for the first time since 2005! Fozzy,who also feature Sean Delson and Frank Fontsere (Stuck Mojo) and Billy Grey (Dangerous New Machine), will hit Australian shores this December touring in support of the latest and critically acclaimed album 'Chasing the Grail'. There is no doubt the Fozzy are one of the most dynamic and energetic live acts on the scene. Jericho brings his WWE theatrics to the stage along with Ward's lively stage presence and fretboard wizardry topped off by the technical powerhouse rhythm section of Fontsere and Delson. Chris Jericho sounds the war cry: "Our fans in Australia are some of the best Fozzy fans in the world and we heard your demands, so we are coming back and we are looking forward to tearing the house down with each and every one of you crazy bastards this December!" 'Chasing the Grail' is in stores now via Riot! / Warner Music. EX-TANGO DOWN SINGER ALEX BARBIERI JOINS HARDROCK HAVEN AS STAFF WRITER: Former Tango Down lead singer, Alex Barbieri, has re-emerged on the scene, this time as a new staff writer for HardrockHaven.net. Barbieri says, "Since my early teens, I have been a huge hard rock and metal fan. My love of the bands and music has never waned. I am very excited to join Hardrock Haven to write reviews and interviews for one of the genre's premier websites." Hardrock Haven says, "Tango Down's Damage Control was one of our favorite albums of the year, and to have someone like Barbieri on board reviewing music -- with his insight into songwriting, singing, production, and everything else that goes into making a complete album -- is a coup for the site. He's already posted his first review: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/loveblast-loveblast/. Check it out to see why we are so jazzed to have Barbieri as part of our review crew!" MORE TRIUMPH TALK FROM MIKE LEVINE: Greece's Rockpages Web Magazine conducted an exclusive interview with Triumph's bassist, Mike Levine, in the wake of the band's recent release of the "Greatest Hits" album. Here's an excerpt where he talks about the possibility of a full-blown reunion and the recording of a brand new studio record: Rockpages.gr: After what you just said, someone might think that the band should reunite and do some shows, like you did a couple of years ago in Sweden, and some other places… Mike Levine: Well, we were close to do that after the Sweden Rock Show, and Rocklahoma… we'd already started to plan a tour, and we had hockey arenas on hold in a bunch of cities in North America, and then in January of 2009 the economy looked like it wasn't going to recover, so we just put all touring plans on hold at that point, and our coordinate advisor suggested that we also stay for this summer, because summer time is the only time you go on the road these days, in North America anyway, because they predicted it wouldn't be very big for concerts this summer. So, if we decide to go out it will be 2011, and again IF we decide to do it, and everybody is available etc. then it will be North America, and Europe as well. Rockpages.gr: Is there a chance for new songs from Triumph? Mike Levine: Ahhm, we will cross that bridge when we come to it, but you know we spent a lot of time apart after the band broke up, and as you may know most bands break up in the recording studio (laughs), so we don't want that risk, plus the fact that you're damned if you do, and damned if you don't new music… I think unless you've got something absolutely spectacular, if you are an old band, -older band I should say! I hate the word "old"!- if you have been from our era, the '80s, your fans are not interested in new music. They love the old music. So, if we recorded something and they'd go buy it, and very few people buy this records, from anybody from that era, then they're going to think "oh, they're going to play all the new songs at a concert, and I am not going to hear half the songs that I want to hear". They want to hear the music of their life as I call it, the music they grew up to, they got married to, they got their first blowjob to…whatever! That's what they wanna hear, so why jam down their throats something new, just because you think you should? I don't know, I don't get it. What we may do, if we go on the road, maybe do a couple of songs, if we have really good material, and put them up on iTunes, or that kind of thing… You can find the whole interview on: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=4539&type=1&lang=EN. NEW REVIEWS ONLINE: New CD Reviews online today for: Issa, Kiske/Somerville, Heart, Edge Of Forever, Sora and Line Of Fire. More to come... Check them out now. ALL PRE-ORDERS SHIPPED: Just wanted to let folks know that all pre-orders of MRCD7 and Fenrik Lane have been shipped and should start arriving at destinations Friday this week or early next week.

 

 

Friday, September 17, 2010

MINDSPLIT & ANTHRIEL RELEASED TODAY: Two of our most anticipated releases of the year are unleashed today (17th September 2010). MindSplit are a new band yet one with years of experience behind its individual members. With a style planted somewhere between straight metal, progressive metal and classic rock the band deliver a truly epic tale with their debut album Charmed Human Art Of Significance. To tie in with the albums release today a special video has been produced for the track "Battle Of The Mind" which was produced by Longshot Video Production. View the video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=mL7NpMdQxvw. Full details on the album can be obtained at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/chaos.htm / www.mindsplit.se / www.myspace.com/mindsplitse. With their spectacular debut The Pathway, Finnish progressive metal outfit Anthriel have produced an album which has all the potential to be hailed a classic and is guaranteed to fascinate metal fans worldwide. Anthriel - the Archangel of balance and harmony is the perfect name for the bands music. With a sound driven by big guitar riffs, deft keyboard touches, a rock solid articulate rhythm section and a healthy dose of expressive vocals high in melody built into intricate yet digestible arrangements this is metal that is easily appreciated on first listen – yet where further plays reveal numerous hidden depths that will keep the listener coming back for more. The quality of material would not be best represented with anything less than a superb production and this is exactly what the The Pathway serves up being an impressive self production. Fans of the likes of Symphony X, Adagio and Yngwie Malmsteen will not want to miss this release. Full details on the album can be obtained at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/thepathway.htm / www.anthriel.com / www.myspace.com/anthrielmusic. As always both albums can be ordered now for same day shipping from the Lion Music Store (See Banner at top of page). Seventh Wonder would like to thank everyone for their support in regards to their debut video for the track "Alley Cat" taken from their forthcoming release "The Great Escape" (release date tbc). The video has seen over 22,000 views in just 2 weeks on YouTube with exceptional high praise in the comments section. The band would also like to thank all that turned out for their appearance at Prog Power 2010 in Atlanta which was another phenomenal success. If you have yet to check out the new video follow this link (www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sRDa-xTfwg).   xx SACHA BARON COHEN TO PLAY FREDDIE MERCURY: Ali G and Borat star Sacha Baron Cohen is to play Freddie Mercury in a film about Queen, the rock band's guitarist Brian May has confirmed to the BBC. "We have Sacha Baron Cohen, which will probably be a shock to a lot of people, but he's been talking with us for a long time," May told the HARDtalk show. Frost/Nixon scribe Peter Morgan is writing the screenplay, he added. The film, which will focus on the period leading up to Live Aid in 1985, will begin shooting next year. "I think we'll try and keep ourselves out of it as much as we can," May said. Baron Cohen had been "on this project since we started talking about it seriously with Peter Morgan a couple of years ago," he added. May and Queen drummer Roger Taylor will oversee music featured in the film, which will include songs by the band and by Mercury as a solo performer. Graham King, of GK Films, which is co-producing the movie along with Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal's production company Tribeca, said Queen was "a music brand all unto itself". "Freddie Mercury was an awe-inspiring performer so with Sacha in the starring role, coupled with Peter's screenplay and the support of Queen, we have the perfect combination to tell the real story behind their success." Morgan, whose previous works include the Oscar-nominated screenplays for The Queen and Frost/Nixon, is already working on the script for the as-yet-untitled project. Queen's 21-minute appearance at the Live Aid concert at Wembley Stadium featured Bohemian Rhapsody, We Are The Champions and Radio Ga Ga. It is considered to be one of the classic rock performances. WebLink: www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-11340336. FAIR WARNING "TALKING AIN'T ENOUGH – FAIR WARNING LIVE IN TOKYO": Release Date Europe: November 22nd, 2010 Release Date: Germany: November 19th, 2010 Release Date USA/Canada: November 23rd, 2010 It´s only 4 years ago when Germany's first class rockers Fair Warning around their charismatic frontman Tommy Heart reentered the stage after a break of nearly 5 years with great power to introduce the reunion album "Brother's Keeper". A sold out tour through Japan as well as some really impressive festival shows throughout Europe followed. In summer 2009 they released the much acclaimed studio album "Aura". Finest guitar rock from the feather of bass player Ule W. Ritgen (9 out of 12 songs) and Fair Warning's guitarist Helge Engelke. Beside that you felt the fun and spontaneity the four guys seem to have during the production – never before the band sounded more self-confident and focused. Aura was an album leading the band – even more than the predecessor - back to old virtues like first class songwriting being interpreted from 4 exceptional musicians rocking unrestricted without stylistic bonds reaching a unique integrity. After a great show at Tokyos Loudpark festivals in 2009 and a sold out tour in Japan in 2010 the band decided to release a live CD and a live DVD to show what they can do best.....play intensive live shows which show that they are one of the finest live bands in the world. Current Line-Up: Tommy Heart – vocals, Helge Engelke – guitars, Ule W. Ritgen – bass, C.C. Behrens - drums. Track listing 3CD Digipak: CD1: Tokyo January 2010 - Intro, Out On The Run, Here Comes The Heartache, Save Me, Angels Of Heaven Don't Give Up, Sakura/Kashmir, Generation Jedi, Don't Keep Me Waiting, The Last Goodbye (Keyboard feature), Falling Reprise, Long Gone, Hey Girl CD2: Tokyo January 2010 - Walking On Smiles, I'll Be There, Longing For Love, I Fight, Still I Believe, Burning Heart, Get A Little Closer, When Love Fails, Fighting For Your Love. CD 3: Loudpark 2009 - Intro, Angels Of Heaven, Save Me, Generation Jedi, Out On The Run, Here Comes The Heartache, Long Gone, Longing For Love, I Fight, Don't Give Up, Burning Heart, Get A Little Closer, When Love Fails. Track listing 2DVD Digipak: DVD1: Tokyo January 2010 (Tracklist see CD1 and CD2) Approx. 120 min DVD 2: Loudpark 2009 (Tracklist see CD3) + private footage Approx. 135 min / Format 16 : 9 NTSC Regional Code 0 PCM / Dolby Stereo 2.0. Boxset with 3 cardboard sleeve CDs, 2 cardboard sleeve DVDs, different cover and booklet Packaging: Hardcover box (height 13 cm, depth 4,5 cm, width 14,5 cm) Limited to 3.000 copies worldwide. Content boxset: - CD1 cardboard sleeve, Tokyo January 2010 - CD2 cardboard sleeve, Tokyo January 2010 - CD3 cardboard sleeve, Loudpark 2009 - DVD1 cardboard sleeve, Tokyo January 2010 - DVD2 cardboard sleeve, Loudpark 2009 + private footage & shots - booklet - different cover. WebLinks: www.fair-warning.de / www.myspace.com/spvmusic.   xxxx POISON'S RIKKI ROCKETT PARTICIPATES IN WEST COAST PUPPY MILL AWARENESS DAY: "For every pet you adopt from a pet store, another three in a shelter will die", says Poison drummer Rikki Rockett. Long-time animal activist and vegetarian, Rockett will join Last Chance For Animals' Chris DeRose at this weekend's gathering, Puppy Mill Awareness Day, to bring attention to this animal problem. The event will take place on Saturday, September 18, from 11 AM to 3 PM at the La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles. Cesar Millan of The Dog Whisperer fame will be one of the speakers, as will Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. Chris DeRose and Rikki Rockett will take the podium at noon to speak about the Puppy Mill & Adopt, Don't Shop campaign. Other TV personalities, live entertainment and a raffle will be featured. Rockett has appeared at the East Coast Awareness Day for many years, but will join the activities in Los Angeles this year. Austin, Texas, will host a Puppy Mill Awareness Day the following day, Sunday, September 19. MARC FERREIRA TO GIG SOLO IN SWITZERLAND: Marco Ferreira, singer/guitarist of the American hard rock band Goodbye Thrill, band Ferreira and former singer of the French prog metal band Venturia will be playing his one man acoustic (4 hours) show in Switzerland. Oct 8 at Memphis Pub - Ornella Corsano / Rue Aimé-Charpilloz 11 / 2735 Bévilard Oct 9 at Shannon's Pub - Rue de la Préfecture 2 / 2800 Delémont, Switzerland "I'm very excited and honored to be back to beautiful Switzerland. I have played those venues a couple of years ago and it was great!!! My kind of place. They have some good beer and every tune I play is a shot song, and I play a lot of songs! Some Goodbye Thrill and Ferreira material and lots and lots of fun covers. " MELODIC BRIEFS: Houston's debut album immediately made it to no. 16 on the Swedish album charts on the week of it's release. The band is currently negotiating a deal with a frontline Swedish booking agency and are eager to start touring this fall! ZZ Top Working with Rick Rubin: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/zz-top-0916/. Alice Cooper, ZZ Top, Matt Sorum (Velvet Revolver, Ex-Guns N' Roses, The Cult) with Cherie Currie (The Runaways) and the Darling Stilettos, Black Country Communion and Perry Farrell (Jane's Addiction) are among the artists who performed at the John Varvatos' 10-year anniversary party on Saturday, September 11 at Varvatos' Bowery store (former CBGB location) in New York City. Shirean Harrison caught these pictures: www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjHnJ10qlcA / www.brooklynvegan.com/archives/2010/09/zz_top_perry_fa.html. STAN BUSH'S NEW ALBUM "DREAM THE DREAM"!: Los Angeles, Sept. 2010 – Emmy-Award winning recording artist Stan Bush, a worldwide icon of Melodic Rock, releasing his new album "Dream the Dream" now available at stanbush.com! Dream the Dream, Stan Bush's 11th studio album, finds the veteran singer/songwriter on top of his game, delivering the kind of powerful melodies and positively charged lyrics that have earned him a loyal following that spans the globe. Longtime fans and new listeners alike will be pleased to find Bush's no-nonsense approach to rock n' roll and emotive lyrics ring true in this new audio gem, the follow up to his critically acclaimed 2007 smash, In This Life. "We've been working on the new album for a year and a half, and I'm very happy with it," says Bush, "the last album, In This Life, got great reviews and though we had to work really hard, I think we've got ourselves another amazing album. Some of the songs have a 'go for it' message, and some are about love, life and a search for meaning." Producer and multi-instrumentalist Holger Fath joins with Stan Bush once again for Dream the Dream, co-creating more of the unique brand of melodic rock that has become their hallmark. Other songwriters contributing to this new release are Bobby Barth (Axe, Blackfoot,) Curt Cuomo (KISS, Eddie Money,) Ed Tree and Lenny Macaluso. "I was honored to again work with Holger Fath as producer/guitarist (and also keys,)" offers Bush, "I think he's brilliant, and he's been a close friend for years. Matt Laug (Alice Cooper, Slash,) is one of the best rock drummers in Los Angeles, and on bass, Matt Bissonette (David Lee Roth, Rick Springfield,) is incredibly solid." While crafting new material, tracks from Stan Bush's previous albums have continued to appear in television and major motion pictures the world over. His all-time hit "The Touch" from "Transformers: The Movie" and "Boogie Nights" was also featured on Chuck (NBC) and recently on American Dad (FOX). Stan's song "Til All Are One (Transformers Theme)" is featured in the new Activision game. Transformers: War for Cybertron. Bush's "'Til I Was Loved by You" captured an Emmy Award in 1997 for Best Original Song, a true career highlight. As a vocalist, Bush has sung on albums by renowned artists such as Alice Cooper and Jefferson Starship, and has worked with a bevy of the music industry's top producers including Ron Nevison, Giorgio Moroder, Andy Johns, Mick Jones, Desmond Child, Peter Frampton and Richie Zito. Bush has co-written with top songwriters like Jonathan Cain (Journey,) and Jim Vallance (Bryan Adams, Aerosmith,) and Paul Stanley of KISS. A European tour in support of the release of Dream the Dream will be announced by Stan Bush in the near future with details and dates forthcoming. Dream the Dream final track listing: Never Hold Back :: I'm Still Here :: Don't Give Up On Love :: Two Hearts :: In My Life :: Love Is The Road :: If This Is All There Is :: Dream The Dream :: More Than A Miracle :: Your Time :: All That I Am :: Sam's Theme (The Touch) Musicians on Dream the Dream: Stan Bush (vocals,) Holger Fath (guitars, keyboards,) Matt Bissonette (bass,) Matt Laug (drums.) Dream the Dream – available at stanbush.com.   FIFTH ANGEL WRITING NEW ALBUM, SEEKS PERMANENT LEAD VOCALIST: SEATTLE – Reunited after 20 years, Seattle-based metal band Fifth Angel is currently in the writing stages of its as-yet-untitled third album, and is actively recruiting a permanent lead singer to complete its lineup. Fifth Angel is seeking a lead vocalist in the style of its original singer, Ted Pilot, who fronted the band in its first incarnation. Preferably, the singer should be a male with exceptional vocal range and tonal qualities in a similar style found on Fifth Angel's two albums – Fifth Angel and Time Will Tell. "We need someone that understands Fifth Angel is not going to be a gig where we hit the road without an end in sight," guitarist Ed Archer explained. "We all have a passion for music, and this band is the perfect way to express musical thoughts and ideas, while maintaining our lives that we've established. This is an opportunity for anyone interested to create new music, play some festivals and have some fun." Fifth Angel, which consists of Archer, bassist John Macko, guitarist Kendall Bechtel and drummer Jeffrey McCormack, performed for the first time as a band at the Keep it True Festival in Germany this past April, fronted by vocalist Peter Orullian. Due to his commitments as an author and other time constraints, however, Orullian will not be able to continue on with Fifth Angel, so the band is looking elsewhere. "We really appreciate everything Peter did for us by stepping in, learning our songs in a very short period of time and delivering a killer set at the Keep it True Festival," said Archer. "Peter is an amazing creative talent and his new book publishing deal will keep him busy. We all wish him the best of luck!" Fifth Angel's progress toward a new album was put on hold temporarily, as the band prepared to play the KIT Festival and was held up again this summer due to some personal challenges. But the band is fired up to finish writing a new album and to play live again. "After KIT, there were a number of serious things on a personal level that caused a delay in our plans," Archer said. "The good news is that we now have quite a number of new songs stockpiled with ideas continually popping up. We're looking forward to continuing the creative process and finding the right voice for the band. "The most perfect solution would be someone in the Seattle area," the guitarist added. "But we're open to all possibilities." If interested for Fifth Angel's vocalist role, please submit your contact information, MP3s (or links to samples of your singing) and promo photos to info@fifthangel.com. For more on Fifth Angel, visit the band online at www.fifthangel.com (official site), www.facebook.com/fifthangelofficial (official Facebook page), or www.fifthangel.net (official authorized fan site). BLACK SABBATH RE-ISSUES HIGHLIGHT RAY GILLEN: Celebration time for fans of vocalist Ray Gillen - www.black-sabbath.com/news / "Sanctuary/Universal UK will be releasing The Eternal Idol Box Set on October 25th. The additional tracks include 'Some Kind Of Woman' and 'Black Moon' (demo) on Disc 1. Disc 2 will comprise the Ray Gillen Eternal Idol album! Complete track listing is as follows: CD 1: 'The Shining 'Ancient Warrior 'Hard Life To Love 'Glory Ride 'Born To Lose 'Nightmare 'Scarlet Pimpernel 'Lost Forever 'Eternal Idol 'Black Moon' (demo) 'Some Kind Of Woman' CD 2: 'Glory Ride' 'Born To Lose' 'Lost Forever' 'Eternal Idol' 'The Shining' 'Hard Life To Love' 'Nightmare' 'Ancient Warrior' Sanctuary/Universal UK will also release the Seventh Star Box Set on October 25th. The first disc of Seventh Star will include the album as well as the remixed version of 'No Stranger to Love', which appears in the music video of the same. Disc 2 is a live concert recorded on June 2, 1986 and has Ray Gillen on vocals. The complete track listing is as follows: CD 1: 'In For The Kill 'No Stranger To Love 'Turn To Stone 'Sphinx (The Guardian) 'Seventh Star 'Danger Zone 'Heart Like A Wheel 'Angry Heart 'In Memory 'No Stranger To Love 'No Stranger To Love' (remix by Jeff Glixman) CD 2: 'Mob Rules' 'Danger Zone' 'War Pigs' 'Seventh Star' 'Die Young' 'Black Sabbath' 'N.I.B' 'Neon Knights' 'Paranoid'. DAVID "ROCK" FEINSTEIN READIES SOLO EFFORT: David "Rock" Feinstein - the former member of Ronnie Dio & The Prophets, The Electric Elves, Elf, and the leader of the legendary NYC band, The Rods - is readying a new solo effort via the Niji Entertainment Group, 'Bitten By The Beast.' Released on November 23, 2010, the nine-track disc will be available as a deluxe Digipack, and will certainly be of interest to metal fans worldwide, due to Feinstein's impressive hard rock pedigree. But also, because the album features what turned out to be one of the last-ever recorded vocals by Ronnie James Dio (Feinstein's cousin), on the head banging anthem "Metal Will Never Die." "I feel like it was meant for me to write 'Metal Will Never Die'," explains Feinstein. "And it was meant to be that Ronnie James Dio should sing it! Whatever power it was that brought the two of us back together musically, I am so thankful for. Now, 'Metal Will Never Die' means more to me than any other song that I have written in my whole career as a songwriter and musician. I can't wait for the world to hear it!" "Metal Will Never Die" is sure to be a hit at active, hard rock, and metal radio (which the Skateboard Marketing team will be heavily promoting for the coming months). Additionally, Feinstein will be supporting the release with live dates with The Rods for all of 2011. 'Bitten By The Beast' will surely catch the attention of Dio fans, as well as fans of vintage, anthemic metal sounds. "Nobody could really know how Ronnie worked in the studio, unless they saw it for themselves," adds Feinstein. "How effortless it was for him to sing. Years ago, Ronnie and I spoke about doing some kind of project together again." Soon, fans will be able to hear firsthand what Ronnie James Dio had known for decades - Feinstein is the real deal, and 'Bitten By The Beast' will prove this point once and for all. The Niji Entertainment Group was started by Ronnie James Dio and his wife/manager, Wendy Dio, in early 2010 (shortly before Dio's tragic passing in May of this year). The first non-Dio related release will be 'Bitten By The Beast,' which will lead to further releases by other artists throughout next year, including solo efforts by Tim "Ripper" Owens, Lynch Mob vocalist Oni Logan, and former Dio guitarist Rowan Robertson. 'Bitten By The Beast' Tracklisting: Smoke On The Horizon, Evil In Me, Break Down The Walls, Metal Will Never Die (Featuring Ronnie James Dio on lead vocals), Kill The Demon, Rock's Boogie, Give Me Mercy, Run For Your Life, Gambler Gambler. For more information, visit: www.bittenbythebeast.com / www.myspace.com/davidrockfeinstein / www.facebook.com/nijientertainmentgroup. VAINS OF JENNA RELEASE NEW VIDEO: With a new lead singer and a fresh 'take on the world' spirit in tow, Los Angeles rockers (via Sweden), Vains of Jenna, are proud to announce the release of their latest video "Everybody Loves You When You're Dead 2010 Mix". The song, which was originally released on 2009's "The Art of Telling Lies" features new frontman Jesse Forte is currently available on the band's YouTube site. The video, co-directed by Eric Sernot along with band bassist and co-founder JP White, was shot in Sweden between tour dates during VoJ's European Tour, which led them from Italy, Czech Republic, France, Denmark, Germany, The UK and back to their former homeland of Sweden. Additionally, as of September 1st, 2010 a new 5 song EP (on RLS/Raw Noize Records) has been released on iTunes with the official hard copy release available September 14, 2010. VoJ will return stateside for a Fall US Tour beginning October 2nd, 2010 at the infamous "Whiskey-A-Go-Go" in Hollywood, CA and will be playing shows in Argentina and Brazil in late October 2010 for the first time ever. In 2011 the band will release special edition covers release (through Deadline-Cleopatra Records) followed by another full-length release of brand new original music and a coast-to-coast tour. Vains of Jenna are proudly endorsed by: Carvin Amps, Guitars and Basses, Rockett Drum Works, Zildjian, DW, Monster Energy, Draven Shoes, Heroes Clothing, Vestal, Rotosound, X-Cel, Against, Aquarian Drum Heads, Cla$ick & Metal Sludge. For sights and sounds log onto: www.vainsofjenna.com / www.myspace.com/vainsofjenna / www.youtube.com/user/vainsofjennavideo. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X Members Area has been updated with the following new features: - Femme Fatale - The Durty Blonde Demos (7 Tracks) - David Wright - Demos (US 88) (4 Tracks) - Elektradrive - Demos (1991) (6 Tracks) - Harlequin - Live In Montreal MR-X Membership Details. REVIEWS COMING: Just a little short on time to complete another several Reviews today, so check in Monday for those to be posted. Also working on a Release Dates update for those that have asked about that section.

 

 

Thursday, September 16, 2010

MelodicRock Records is proud to add another fantastic band to its small roster of artists in signing Swedish melodic hard rocker band Degreed for the release of their debut album Life, Love, Loss. The album will be released worldwide October 29, with pre-orders (available from today) shipped the week of October 22.     Degreed were founded during 2005 at the Conservatory of Music in Stockholm by Mats Ericsson, Robin Ericsson, Jonas Erkers and Daniel Johansson. With the same musical interest and the same taste of music Degreed started writing music with the result of a hard/melodic/alternative musical mix of five peoples minds and feelings. During 2006 they participated in Emergenza, and won the Swedish/Norwegian/Finish finals, which resulted in that Degreed represented these three countries in the world finals in Rothenburg, Germany. 8000 bands participated in the competition but only 21 of these 8000 came to the world finals. Degreed finished at the 10th place but won a couple individual prices such as 2nd best drummer, best arrangement, 2nd best guitarist. 2007 Micke Jansson, who's Robin's and Mats cousin, joined the band on keyboards, which brought the band to a whole new level musically. After the band came home from playing the Frankfurt Music fair Jonas left the band due to musical differences and Jesper Adefelt took his place. Vocalist Robin Ericsson participated in the Swedish Idol during the fall of 2008 and took the Swedish people by storm and gained a lot of respect and credibility among the young as well as the older viewers. He ended up in sixth place and got himself and Degreed a load of fans that voted and followed him through Idol and are now following Degreed. During the fall of 2008 and the spring/summer 2009 Degreed recorded their first full length CD with the producer/songwriter Erik Lidbom (Sheri, Masterplan, Paulo Meneguzzi, Kat-Tun etc). Another new track was added to the final sessions just a week ago, resulting in the completion of the final master for an amazing debut album set to be unleashed upon the world. MelodicRock Records owner Andrew McNeice: "Degreed is another band I have been friends with for some time now, and have been following the recording of their debut from the demo stage until now. Quite frankly, it is once again a shock to me that such a fantastic sounding band with quality musicianship and brilliant songwriting hasn't already been signed up by a major label, leaving me the great pleasure of being able to sign them myself. I can't wait to unleash another quality fresh new face on the rock scene and believe this is just the beginning for a great group of guys. Fans of fellow Swede's Eclipse, Goran Edman and Europe need to check these guys out pronto. Another album without a filler in sight. I'm really proud of these guys." Track Listing (and audio samples): 01) B.O.D. 02) Arms Of Misery (Full Length Song Download) 03) A Little Bit 04) Captured By The Moment (Steve Perry cover) 05) Just Imagine 06) Story Of Life 07) Human Being 08) Colour Me 09) Catch The Feeling 10) Keep Me Alive 11) My Fall 12) By Your Side WebLinks: www.degreedmusic.com / www.myspace.com/degreedmusic / www.melodicrockrecords.com     xxxx     All I Know, from Kortrijk, Belgium, was previously announced as the other MelodicRock Records October release. It is now time to reveal the rest of the album audio previews. Pre-orders for the October 29 release are open now. For all those that pre-order Vanity Kills, you will receive 2 exclusive MP3 Bonus Tracks - Consume Me and Only You. These tracks are only available to those that pre-order the album, prior to release direct from the MRR Store. All I Know's sound sees them mix up the best influences of Bryan Adams, Van Stephenson, REO Speedwagon and Bon Jovi. All I Know are: Ward Dufraimont (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Michaël Neyt (Guitar/Vocals), Amély Mondy (Bass). Track Listing for "Vanity Kills": 01) All Night Long 02) Bad Boy 03) Asphyxia 04) Rain [Beau Hill Remix] 05) Turn Back Time 06) I Need You 07) Into Your Heart 08) I Wanna Rock You 09) Sweet 17 10) Teenage Queen 11) All The Way 12) Hope And Dreams WebLinks: www.alliknow.be / www.myspace.com/alliknow / www.melodicrockrecords.com. Release Date: October 22 (pre-orders, including 2 exclusive bonus track downloads!; October 29 in-store).

 

 

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

WHITESNAKE KEYBOARDIST TIMOTHY DRURY DEPARTS: September 2010 - Whitesnake have announced keyboardist Timothy Drury is leaving the band to pursue a solo career... "For over seven years now I have been fortunate enough to travel the world, to play and sing my heart out and to share the stage with David Coverdale as a part of Whitesnake. I've learned so much from David Coverdale and this experience, about following one's heart, about being authentic, about never letting fear prevent one from pursuing one's destiny. More than ever, I see the value of what I can express as a composer and producer, photographer, songwriter, singer... as an artist. That is why I must now say my goodbyes to you all and take my leave to pursue some very important creative projects that have been brewing for some time now. I am currently preparing for my first photography show in the Winfield Gallery in Carmel where I will be performing my cinematic music at the opening and projecting my images and video on screens. The event will be happening as part of the Carmel Art and Film Festival, October 6th through the 10th. www.carmelartandfilm.com." Whitesnake singer David Coverdale said..."We are sad to lose such a valued member of the band, but, we understand, support & sincerely wish Timothy every success in his solo career & thank him for a great, fun journey together." At this time the band are focusing on finishing the new studio album before seeking a replacement keyboard player. For the full statement from Timothy please visit www.whitesnake.com. FLORIDA POWERFEST II: Legendary German Power-Metal band, Nuclear Blast recording artist Blind Guardian have been confirmed to headline the second annual Florida Powerfest held at State Theatre in Saint Petersburg, Florida on December 18th, 2010. This will be Blind Guardian's exclusive Floridian Date. The Lineup for Florida Powerfest II will also include the touring package of support acts, Prosthetic Records artist Holy Grail and Nightmare Records artist Seven Kingdoms. Theocracy, Psyaxis, Halcyon Way, and Sanctum will round off the bill. Tickets go on sale September 17th via Ticketmaster. Presale tickets are $35, Day of $45, and VIP $65. VIP tickets and details will be available exclusively through Seven Kingdoms homepage: www.sevenkingsdoms.net. Florida PowerFest 2010 Line-Up: Blind Guardian, Holy Grail, Seven Kingdoms, Theocracy, Psyaxis, Halcyon Way, Sanctum. Please visit www.floridapowerfest.com for more information. Please check www.mastersofmetal.us and www.ultimatemetal.com for updates.

 

 

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

QUIET RIOT BACK IN BUSINESS WITH NEW SINGER AND UPCOMING TOUR: After the tragic passing of co-founding Quiet Riot singer Kevin DuBrow in 2007, many figured that the band was over. But while going through the vaults of vintage video material for an upcoming documentary of the band's history, the spark was reignited once more for drummer Frankie Banali to kick QR back in gear. The easy part was filling the guitar and bass slots - as former members Chuck Wright (bass) and Alex Grossi (guitar) promptly signed on. However, having to fill DuBrow's large shoes was no small task. A longtime fan of heavy metal, singer Mark Huff came to Banali's attention while fronting a California-based Van Halen tribute band (that focused on the "Sammy Hagar era"). A true Cinderella story, Huff auditioned via a cattle call audition, promptly blew Banali away, and got the gig. After getting the blessing from DuBrow's mother to carry on with Quiet Riot (and to celebrate her son's music), the group was ready to rock once more. Quiet Riot hit mega-success with their first-ever US release in 1983, the classic 'Metal Health.' Spawning two hit singles that have gone on to become synonymous with heavy metal - "Cum On Feel the Noize" and "Metal Health" - the 'Metal Health' album went on to become the first-ever metal US debut to hit the #1 spot on the Billboard album charts, and resulted in a solid year of sold-out arena shows and non-stop MTV video airplay. However, it was the DuBrow-Banali-Wright-Grossi line-up that proved to be DuBrow's favorite touring line-up (and also, most stable). Quiet Riot is currently firming up plans for a full U.S. tour - their first in three years. And with the aforementioned documentary on the horizon, and the band's music being used in hit films ('The Wrestler,' 'Tropic Thunder'), video games ('Guitar Hero Encore: Rocks the 80's'), and even musicals ('Rock of Ages') - as well as QR being name-checked in songs by Weezer and Ben Folds - Quiet Riot remains a major force in heavy metal. And soon, you will get a chance to bang your head once more to Quiet Riot, at a concert venue near you! For more information, visit: www.officialquietriot.com / www.myspace.com/officialquietriot. BIG COUNTRY RETURN WITH NEW SINGER MIKE PETERS: Mike Peters to sing for legendary celt-rockers Big Country who are all set to return to the British stage with the announcement of 4 UK shows to take place in January 2011. More may be added. Big Country exploded onto the scene in 1982-83 with anthemic songs such as 'Fields Of Fire' and 'In A Big Country' which were culled from their classic debut album 'The Crossing' which sold several million worldwide. They followed up with a number one album 'Steeltown' and released 8 studio albums all of which entered the Top Ten. Big Country released 28 singles 5 of which were also Top Ten. Approaching their 30th anniversary, Big Country (with Mike Peters from The Alarm as guest vocalist), are lining up concerts for a period of celebration that will not only embrace their illustrious past but also honour the life and times of original lead singer, guitarist and co-founder Stuart Adamson, who passed away so tragically in 2001. "I first met Stuart on stage at a U2 concert in Hammersmith Palais back in 1983" says Mike Peters. "Bono introduced us to his audience as being "part of the the new breed" and Stuart was literally passed up onto the stage by the fans and I shook his hand as I handed him a guitar - an unforgettable entrance. The last time I saw him was also on stage with Big Country at Glasgow Barrowlands for the last night of the Final Fling tour in 2000, when we sang Neil Young's 'Rockin' In The Freeworld' together. When Bruce Watson called and asked me to sing for Big Country, it was something I didn't need to think twice about. I'm looking forward to meeting all the fans again and playing a part in keeping the spirit of Stuart Adamson alive and celebrating the music of a band I have loved from near and afar for the whole of my adult life". Bass guitarist Tony Butler says "To play again as Big Country was something that was only going to happen if we could find someone who could compliment the band and sing the songs in the way they need to be sung - with heart and soul. Mike Peters from The Alarm has stepped in to fill the premise. It's about time the songs got another airing, and we think Stuart would be pleased too". The new Big Country line up consists of: Tony Butler - Bass Guitar and Vocals, Mark Brzezicki - Drums and Vocals, Mike Peters - Vocals and Guitar, Bruce Watson - Guitar and Vocals, Jamie Watson - Guitar. Dates so far are: January 2011 Wednesday 5th Newcastle O2 Academy Thursday 6th London Islington O2 Academy Friday 7th Birmingham O2 Academy Saturday 8th Liverpool 02 Academy All shows are on sale from Saturday 11th September at 9am via www.gigsandtours.com or Tel: 0844 811 0051Tickets are Priced £20 (£22.50 London). For further information visit: www.bigcountry.co.uk. HAVEN RETURN WITH NEW CHARITY SINGLE: Melodic Rockers Haven are back with a new single and video - this one being for a good cause. The band sent me this update: "A Charity called Homes for The Troops (www.homesforourtroops.org) is getting involved with the song and we are going to donate the profits to them for this song. Our goal is to get 1 million downloads. I am asking everyone to go to iTunes and download the song. So it would be great if you could help! itunes.apple.com/us/album/proud-soldiers-single/id382205975 Please feel free to share the video with anyone you think would enjoy it or would want to help with the Charity by going to iTunes: www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nHMIiNHTQw MELODIC BRIEFS: Mr. Mister will be releasing it's fourth album Pull this October on vocalist Richard Page's own Little Dume label - CDs available online and via Download. The album was recorded back in 1994. Welcome to the Jungle: The Top 10 Debut Albums in Rock History: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/top-debut-albums-0913/ Indie hard rockers from Sydney, Australia - Mr. Scary have a new CD out - The World Can Wait. Check them out at: www.myspace.com/mrscary100. Phil Vincent has a new band website online at: www.philvincentbands.com. Starz returns to action in October - Legendary 70's hard rock band Starz will make 2 live appearances in October - Friday, Oct 1 at Sellersville Theater in Sellersville, PA. (www.ST94.com) and Saturday, Oct 2 at Beachland Ballroom in Cleveland, OH with special guests-Detroit's own Bazooka Jones. (www.Beachlandballroom.com). Don't miss this rare chance to see Michael Lee, Richie, Dube, Bobby, and George live! King Kobra (with vocalist Paul Shortino) have their first new song streaming online via the band's Facebook page. "Monsters & Heroes" (a tribute to Ronnie James Dio) can be heard here: www.facebook.com/pages/Official-King-Kobra/270854497159. UK rock band Tara's Secret have released their new video Rock n Roll Beauty Queen, taken from their latest album Vertigo, released on Black Cat Music. "Rock n Roll Beauty Queen" follows the classic teenage runaway story and the video features Felicity Burrows-Flower in the roll of the runaway. Video Link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkVpCeL1JzU. The band will be playing more UK shows this year, including tour support slots in December. NO AEROSMITH WITHOUT TYLER SAYS A&R LEGEND: A great insight into Aerosmith's current mis-fortunes from someone who knows the band better than anyone - A&R guru John Kalodner. Article from: www.nypost.com/p/entertainment/tv/aero_miffed_wiilcK9WpggbJtl65SVIpN#ixzz0zTNKjgI5. "Is Joe Perry, Steven Tyler's Aerosmith bandmate, right, wrong or just plain jealous in saying that if the rock god joins "American Idol" it would be one step above starring in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles? According to one who really knows, "This is Steven Tyler's great opportunity to transition to something he's always wanted to be: a Hollywood celebrity! And that's the problem right there." Ouch. No, that's not Perry savaging Tyler again. This time the tough talker is no less than A&R legend John Kalodner, the guy behind Aerosmith, Foreigner, Iron Maiden and Bon Jovi for starters. According to one who really knows, "This is Steven Tyler's great opportunity to transition to something he's always wanted to be: a Hollywood celebrity! And that's the problem right there." Ouch. For decades Kalodner worked cheek-by-jowl with Aerosmith, helping them become one of the biggest bands in rock history, but whom he calls, "The ultimate dysfunctional family. Joe is completely wrong. It's jealousy. He's ultra pissed off." Tyler, Kaldoner told me, always wanted to be more than just a rock god -- "he sought Hollywood recognition, and now he can get that." Too much is never enough for some rock gods. But can he transition into a TV talent judge? "Simon Cowell was a failed A&R person, a nothing, who is an incredible TV personality. Randy Jackson? The greatest studio musician, but an average A&R guy who became a terrific TV personality. I don't know what will happen because Steven gets his energy from singing in front of 20,000 people. Sitting in a TV studio with scripted sound bites? I'm not sure he'd be able to even use his own great quips. I'll be able to tell you in the first show or two if he'll be his superstar self." What about Perry's claim that he could easily replace Tyler with another lead singer when/if Tyler joins "American Idol? If he makes a giant success as a TV personality he won't want to go back on the road. And there is no Aerosmith without Steven Tyler. Period," says Kalodner. RIK EMMETT SAYS NO TRIUMPH TOUR DATES ON THE HORIZON: Matt Wardlaw spoke with former Triumph singer/guitarist Rik Emmett this past Thursday for the pop culture blog Addicted to Vinyl (www.addictedtovinyl.com) regarding Emmett's upcoming acoustic tour, which begins on Friday, September 24th in Pittsburgh. Emmett will once again team up with his longtime songwriting partner Dave Dunlop as The Troubs (the newly shortened nickname of their Strung-Out Troubadours project) for a short series of dates that will feature tracks from Push and Pull, the latest Troubs album plus acoustic versions of Triumph favorites, selections from Emmett's solo catalog and some brand new material the pair will be road testing. Visit www.rikemmett.com for a complete list of upcoming tour dates. Here are a couple of excerpts from the interview: On the transition from Triumph to being a solo artist, plus related thoughts about Mike Portnoy's departure from Dream Theater: Just looking back a bit, I heard the tracks from your solo debut [Absolutely, released in 1990] for the first time as you were playing live during a radio broadcast from the Empire Concert Club, a club here in Cleveland that's long gone. Oh yeah, I remember that one now! [Laughs] It struck me as a really powerful statement and a strong first move for your debut as a solo artist. 20 years later as you look back, what was it like making that transition from being a member of Triumph to being a solo artist? As a listener, Absolutely came across as a very confident record, so it seems like something you would have been happy with at the time. I was, but I do remember it as an extremely emotionally turbulent difficult time in my life. It was just weird to be kind of caught in a situation where I really wanted to try to step out on my own. I wasn't sure what form that stepping out was going to take. And then of course you have all of the pressure - managers and agents and record company people that are leaning over your shoulder saying "now now Rik, you shouldn't go too far away from that image." You have that Absolutely cover and you can see there's a guy that he's got the MTV hair and he's got the leather jacket and he's playing the black Les Paul. That was what record companies, managers and agents were saying, you've got to do this. I do think it had a certain kind of strength, but now when I listen to the record I go "geez, there's an awful lot of late '80s/'90s kind of reverb in the mixes." There was reverb on everything! Reverb for the snare, reverb for the kick and reverb for the background vocals and it just seems gargantuan and dynamically over the top sometimes now when I listen back to it. There's a song on there called "Middle Ground" that is still one of the most important songs I play when I play little acoustic shows. I realized that song had more value when it was more intimate and more personal, so that was part of it - the production maybe pushed me a little bit outside of the comfort zone. But I didn't even know what my comfort zone was. And I just want to say this quickly - I heard today that [drummer] Mike Portnoy has left Dream Theater. He put out an announcement on his site and talked about how this would be shocking and heavy duty and it certainly was heavy duty for him. That took me right back to that time period in 1988/1989 when I left Triumph. You've got people that are saying "how can you do this, how can you betray the things that you've stood for for so long and that you were an integral part of," and blah blah blah. But in the end, you've kind of got to do what your heart tells you. Why else did you choose a life as an artist if you're not gonna do that and sometimes the choices are hard. I think the Absolutely album for me was one where it was a statement of saying "you know, life isn't so simple, life is kind of complex." So I wanted a record that had a little bit of that. It had ballads and then it had progressive kind of tunes like "Stand and Deliver" and it had vocal kind of, I don't know what you'd call them - fugues or rounds or something and finger style guitar. It had a lot of stuff and I'm thinking it will be pretty interesting to see what Portnoy comes up with next, now that he's made this step, now what does he do - what's his definitive statement? That's all I've got to say about that. I don't want to dwell on it but you're right, when he made his announcement, it was really shocking to me - I wasn't so much shocked that he did it, but it's one of the biggest departures and lineup changes that we've heard about in a while. Yeah, and it was his band for crying out loud. That band was his band and his dad was the one that came up with the name for it, for crying out loud. So that's a real shocker. On the future of Triumph: Final bit - what's the current word on Triumph? We had a dinner this summer with the guys from Live Nation and had some conversations about potential tours and what might happen and then since then, nothing. In truth, I think honestly Gil Moore has that whole Metalworks empire - you know he's got a studio and a school and a production company and it's growing and it's doing gangbusters and I think he probably - Gil always did have a very strong workaholic kind of nature and I have a feeling that he's just sitting there now going "love my life, love my job, love what I'm doing here, [I] don't necessarily need to try and gear myself up as a drummer to play a 75 minute show, sing half the songs, [and] go on and have to do that, [I] would rather be doing this." I'm not sure anything will ever happen. If someone came along and said "look, can't you just do this one [show]" and I imagine it might be Canada too that somebody would come and say "hey, we're having this huge outdoor Canada concert thing, will you guys just reunite and come on out more time for a million dollars?" And then I think Gil and Mike might go "yeah, that sounds pretty good, sure!" Until that happens, I'm not sure. They don't want to go out and do a tour where they're just going to take a small production and play casinos or something. I just don't think that's going to happen. It doesn't matter to me - I'm quite content taking my acoustic guitar and going and playing acoustic shows in places like The Winchester. For me, I just want a chance to play every now and then and gig, write new tunes and get a chance to air 'em out. So I don't necessarily need Triumph to be able to fulfill that and I get the sense that neither do the other two guys. Read the complete interview via the following link: addictedtovinyl.com/blog/2010/09/13/the-atv-interview-rik-emmett/

 

 

Monday, September 13, 2010

NEXT IN LINE FOR AOR HEAVEN CLASSIX: Following hot on the heels of Casanova's Heroes (AOR Heaven Classix 0001, double CD incl. the mini album "Sway", digitally remastered incl. liner notes, limited edition of 1000 copies) and After Hours Take Off (AOR Heaven Classix 0002, digitally remastered by Chris Lyne plus liner notes by Dave Reynolds, limited edition of 1000 copies), AOR Heaven continue their 'Classix Series' with their third release... The newest release of this series is the digitally remastered re-issue of Steel Breeze's second album, Heart On The Line feat. Kevin Chalfant (The Storm) on vocals. Originally released in 1984 this is without a doubt the finest effort from the long lost US pomp AOR outfit and extremely hard to find these days. Strictly limited to 1000 copies, this re-issue contains liner notes from Dave Reynolds and will be available from www.aorheaven.com by Thursday September 16 and via connected retailers.   ESCAPE MUSIC - STRATOSPHERE MP3 PREVIEW: Escape Music are pleased to announce their next signing - the Stratosphere album Fire Flight, due for release in Europe October 22. The band features the line-up of: Goran Edman - Vocals, Jonas Larsen - Guitars, Jim McCarty - Drums, Anders Borre Mathiesen – Bass, Jeppe Lund – Keyboards. Track Listing: 1-Russian Summer, 2- The Battle Within, 3- Enemy Of my Soul, 4- Street Of Moscow, 5-Rendezvous, 6- Shining Star, 7- China Girl, 8- Princess Of The Night, 9- VIP, 10- Fire Flight. Please sample this full length track from the album: The Battle Within. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   ZEP DRUMMER TRIBUTE GAINS MOMENTUM: Saturday, Zeptember 25th at Key Club just keeps getting bigger by the day! Not only is it the 30th anniversary of the passing of rock's most influential drummer; Led Zeppelin's John Bonham! Not only did 17 of rock's biggest drummers get aboard in honor of John Bonham! But now, Zoe Bonham, daughter of John Bonham, has confirmed to perform as well! Event co-organizer/Whitesnake drummer Brian Tichy says, "the energy going around us drummers in regard to the Bonzo tribute is electric! I can't wait to sit back and watch some of my favorite drummers rock some of the best music ever in the spirit of Bonzo! Now with the addition of Zoe Bonham, you gotta ask yourself, are you really NOT going to be there? This kind of tribute has never been done before!" The concept is simple... each drummer gets on the replica Bonham kit, from The Song Remains The Same movie. With the kit front and center stage, each drummer plays his favorite song with the secret house band. No one knows which drummer will be next, or which song will be played. But with Jason and Zoe Bonham performing, this will be the tribute in which all others are measured against! Also, closing the night is the ultimate all girl Led Zeppelin tribute band, "Hammer Of The Broads." The 'who's who' list of rock finest drummers are; Steven Adler (Guns 'N Roses, Adler's Appetite), Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Heaven and Hell), Kenny Aronoff (John Cougar, John Fogerty, studio legend), Frankie Banali (Quiet Riot), Bobby Blotzer (RATT), Jason Bonham, son of John Bonham (Led Zeppelin, Foreigner) Fred Coury (Cinderella), Jimmy D'Anda (BulletBoys), James Kottak (Scorpions), Abe Laboriel (Paul McCartney), Khurt Maier (Salty Dog), Stephen Perkins (Jane's Addiction), Chris Slade (The Firm/ AC/DC), Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers/Chickenfoot), Briian Tichy (Whitesnake/Foreigner/ Billy Idol), Joe Travers (Zappa Plays Zappa/ Duran Duran) and Simon Wright (AC/DC / DIO). *Carmine Appice (Vanilla Fudge/ Rod Stewart) and Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater/Avenged Sevenfold) will perform via video. The Groove Remains The Same tickets are available at www.keyclub.com and www.ticketfly.com. CELEBRATE ROCKTOBER WITH THE ROCKIN' 70'S: Envision Radio Networks® and 4C Studios are proud to present The Rockin' 70's Rocktober, a series of five free one-hour radio specials throughout the month of October celebrating the top albums of the 1970's. Each week throughout the month of Rocktober, The Rockin' 70's radio show will feature a different classic album of the decade, including Rush "2112", Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers "Damn The Torpedoes", Deep Purple "Machine Head", Pink Floyd "Dark Side of The Moon", and Black Sabbath "Paranoid". Zander, host of The Rockin' 70's, will play each album start to finish, featuring exclusive audio from Eagle Rock Entertainment's Classic Albums DVD series and comments from those involved with the creation of these important masterpieces of rock history. These five FREE specials will be available beginning Wednesday, September 29, and stations can pick and choose their favorite specials or run them all! Contact Matt Wardlaw at mattw@envisionradio.com or 216-831-3761 for broadcast details. They say that if you remember the 70's….you weren't really there! The Rockin' 70's features all of the sights and sounds from the decade to jog your memory, and of course…all of the rock that goes with it. The Rockin' 70's is loaded with heavy musical artillery from bands including Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Rush, Kiss, Van Halen, Aerosmith, and more! Zander brings his passion and complete knowledge for rock music to The Rockin' 70's with weekly features including Reel Live Cuts from the vaults, a memory test with the Pop Culture Pop Quiz, aurally stimulating tracks meant for Headphones Only, and lost and forgotten selections direct from LP in The Vinyl Destination. Visit www.therockin70s.com for samples. PRETTY BOY FLOYD DRUMMER SAYS FAREWELL: Drummer Troy Patrick Farrell (White Lion/Lost Angels) will play his final show with glam rockers Pretty Boy Floyd in Stockholm, Sweden at Stockholm Rockout II September 10. "I wish the guys the best and it has been a fun couple of years but it's time for me to move on" Farrell said on his Facebook. He continued by adding that "I would like to get into a project that can not only be challenging, but that can prove to be a natural step up". Farrell will also play Stockholm Rockout's day two Saturday, with John Corabi (former Motley Crue, Union, The Scream) as well as a Lost Angels Date in Leon, Mexico Oct 9. More can be found at www.drummertroy.com. CONQUEST IN THE FOR NEW ALBUM AGAINST ALL ODDS: Conquest is in the studio laying down tracks for their new album entitled Against All Odds. The band is working with engineer Adam Long, and the album will be produced by Derrick Brumley. The latest release which will feature new bass player Joey Saturn follows up the highly successful full length album "End Of Days" and will be available worldwide in the Spring/Summer 2011 via Dark Star Records. Here is a look at the current track list: 1) Never For Get (A New Tribute To 9/11) 2) Get Off My Back 3) Fall From Grace 4) Tyrant Of The New World 5) Coming With Vengeance 6) The Valley Of The Damned 7) The Wicked One 8) Turn Me Away 9) The War We Rage 10) Scream For My Life. This album promises to be the bands most powerful release to date so, any fans of Conquest should be on the lookout for this offering come Spring/Summer. Also, as a Tribute to all the men and women who lost their lives on 9/11 the band Conquest would like to give away a free download for the song No Mercy (9/11). Click here for the free download: www.purevolume.com/darkstarrecords/albums/No+Boundaries. Watch the video No Mercy (9/11) here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=600FPjhkidM / www.conquestmetal.com / www.myspace.com/conquestmetal.

 

 

Friday, September 10, 2010

LAST CALL FOR MRCD7 PRE-ORDERS / MRR UPDATE: MelodicRock.com Compilation 7 Forces Of Dark & Light has completed manufacturing and is departing for MR HQ today. Pre-order copies will be shipped out by this Wednesday before the official release Monday September 17. So, today and this weekend is the very last chance to pre-order MRCD7 and gain access to the additional bonus track downloads on offer. After Sunday this will not be offered again. MelodicRock Records release Fenrik Lane - 317 (MRR002) is also on board for delivery and will be shipped at the same time. So if you want to be one of the first to get this release ahead of the official release on the 17th, please order now via: www.melodicrockrecords.com/store. And finally - pre-sales for the cracking AOR debut from All I Know - Vanity Kills (MRR003) start next week (with 2 additional bonus tracks for those that pre-order) alongside MRR004 and news of MRR005, details for which will be announced right here on Monday!   xxxx Part of MRCD7 is a brand new Trillion track. There are in fact, 3 new tracks from the group. The details of which have now been announced: "New music from the original prog rock band and former Epic recording artist Trillion from Chicago continues from where the band left off thirty years ago with a stylistically ambitious track that takes the listener through a wide range of musical soundscapes that showcase the masterful vocals of singer, Thom Griffin, the brilliant, melodic/chops driven guitars of Frank Barbalace and the syncopated and propulsive rhythmic framework of drummer Bill Wilkins. Additional instrumental contributions include the lush keyboard arrangements of CJ Vanston, (LA Studio, Joe Cocker, Spinal Tap, Steve Lukather) and the strong and artful bass lines of fusion veteran, Dave LaRue, (The Dixie Dregs, Steve Morse Band, Joe Satriani, Planet X). Purchase all three new songs via: www.trillion-music.us/indextrill.html. ESCAPE MUSIC ANNOUNCE STRATOSPHERE: Escape Music are pleased to announce their next signing - the Stratosphere album Fire Flight, due for release in Europe October 22. The band features the line-up of: Goran Edman - Vocals, Jonas Larsen - Guitars, Jim McCarty - Drums, Anders Borre Mathiesen – Bass, Jeppe Lund – Keyboards. Track Listing: 1-Russian Summer, 2- The Battle Within, 3- Enemy Of my Soul, 4- Street Of Moscow, 5-Rendezvous, 6- Shining Star, 7- China Girl, 8- Princess Of The Night, 9- VIP, 10- Fire Flight. Mixed and Mastered by: Martin Kronlund at JM Recording Studio's Gothenburg, Sweden. Make way for a new Scandinavian Band! Enter Stratosphere, a tight knit Quintet that mixes symphonic progressive and melodic rock in a manner that will leave you speechless. The band is the brainchild of keyboard virtuoso Jeppe Lund, himself a huge fan of symphonic rock and he has dreamed of making a record such as "Fire Flight". With Goran Edman on lead vocals; his clean, yet powerful voice is one of a kind. Goran blends perfectly in a loud music setting and excels on the neo-classical twist. Both his lead and backing vocal qualities are state of art. He has become a household name singing with bands such as Kharma, Vindictiv and, of course, with Yngwie Malmsteen. To complete the line up we have guitarist Jonas Larsen, whose nifty fretwork reminds us of Yngwie himself and Richie Blackmore. The solid rhythm section is provided by Jim McCarty on drums and Anders Borre Mathieson on bass, both of whom have had a seasoned career in the rock music industry. Stratosphere is like a breath of fresh air and boasts a big sound with plenty of cat and mouse guitar / keyboard antics that roll along just effortlessly. They seem to capture the elements of symphonic progressive rock and mix them with melodic overtones with a sprinkle of originality just for good measure. Opener "Russian Summer" is a huge song with soaring melodies, whilst "The Battle Within" echoes the halcyon days of Rainbow. The band seem at home and play together so masterfully, one track that is worthy of extra attention is the instrumental "Rendezvous" which is one of those songs that has loads of layered keyboards that intertwine with sumptuous guitar playing. The Haunting song "Shining Star" is a pleasure to listen to and gives a chance for Goran to show off his vocal prowess to maximum effect. The ballad "Princess of the night" is a beautifully executed piece; in fact the whole album is just a complete pleasure to listen to. Stratosphere is a new beginning; this is Scandinavian rock music of the highest order. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   NEW FRONTIERS RECORDS YOUTUBE TRAILER: The latest Frontiers Records releases can be previewed via this new YouTube promo:   FUTURE TUNES UP CLASSIC ROCK PRESENTS: AOR: A new AOR Magazine is set to debut in November. Here's the press release: / "We've today revealed the latest spin-off from our fast growing Classic Rock brand, as we announce Classic Rock Presents: AOR – a one-off special dedicated to the resurgent rock genre. As AOR music enjoys a renaissance, groups including Bon Jovi are selling-out multiple shows at huge stadiums, and legacy acts like Journey are once again played on mainstream radio. The return of melodic rock is driving a new breed of AOR bands, including H.E.A.T and Reckless Love. Future's Classic Rock Presents: AOR promises a stylish and glossy celebration of the genre. Engaging with fans, the title will appraise the work of legendary groups and champion the next generation. Hitting newsstands in November, we hope the one-off AOR title will follow in the footsteps of Classic Rock Presents: Prog – the bi-monthly Classic Rock spin-off dedicated to Progressive Rock. Initially published as a one-off in March 2009, the special was a sell-out and response from fans saw us making it a regular title, which now sells over 20,000 copies of each issue, with a cover price of £7.99. Classic Rock Presents: AOR is edited by Classic Rock's Editor-at-Large, Geoff Barton – the veteran rock journalist who founded Kerrang! and was Editor of the influential Sounds magazine. Editorial contributors will include such well established names as Derek Oliver, Dave Reynolds, Dave Ling, Alison Joy, Paul Elliott, Malcolm Dome, Dante Bonutto and many, many more. The magazine will also include a free cover disc, named after the immortal Starz album Coliseum Rock, which mixes acts old 'n' new – Journey and Triumph alongside the likes of W.E.T. and White Widdow. Geoff Barton, Editor of Classic Rock Presents: AOR, said: "With acts like Foreigner and FM on Radio Two, Journey's Don't Stop Believin' the biggest-selling download of all-time, and a wave of reunions and new artists, the genre that seemed terminally out of fashion is back." Chris Ingham, Group Publisher of Classic Rock and Metal Hammer, added: "Whether you call it Adult Oriented Rock, Album Oriented Rock or American Oriented Rock – one thing is for sure: the market for timeless melodic rock has never been greater. We're testing the water by putting out an AOR special – as we believe we've found a gap in the market and appetite from rock fans. This magazine could be another logical progression for our portfolio, if there's a viable market in this publishing gap, Classic Rock Presents: AOR may join our portfolio of premium-priced niche spin-offs." Future Publishing's rock music brands continue to strengthen, with Classic Rock and Metal Hammer launching their own High Voltage festival in partnership with Mama Group this summer, alongside a series of high profile publishing partnerships, including Ozzy Osbourne's first officially endorsed magazine, Metal Hammer Presents: OzzFest and its forthcoming Classic Rock: Roll of Honour Awards later this year. Classic Rock Presents: AOR hits newsstands on Wednesday, 17th November, with a cover price of £7.99." CLASSIC NIGHT RANGER PERFORMANCE COMING TO CD: Night Ranger's classic Westwood One broadcast of their August 1984 Michigan performance is set to make it's way to CD! Authorized Bootleg: Live Marquette, Michigan 8/8/84 will be released October 26. More details when available. Meanwhile...Drummer Kelly Keagy tweeted yesterday that Night Ranger will sing God Bless America before the Air Guard 400 at Richmond, VA. The race will be on ABC, and Night Ranger will sing @ 7:31pm EST. DREAM THEATER RESPOND TO PORTNOY DEPARTURE: In the wake of Mike Portnoy's announcement that he is leaving Dream Theater, the remaining members of the band have issued the following statement about the matter: "To all of our loyal fans and friends: It is with profound sadness -- regret -- we announce that Mike Portnoy, our lifelong drummer and friend, has decided to leave Dream Theater. Mike's stature in the band has meant the world to all of us professionally, musically, and personally over the years. There is no dispute: Mike has been a major force within this band. While it is true that Mike is choosing to pursue other ventures and challenges, we can assure you that Dream Theater will continue to move forward with the same intensity -- and in the same musical tradition -- that you have all helped make so successful, and which is truly gratifying to us. Fans and friends: File this episode under Black Clouds and Silver Linings. As planned, we begin recording our newest album in January 2011, and we'll follow that with a full-on world tour. "The Spirit Carries On." All of us in Dream Theater wholeheartedly wish Mike the best on his musical journey. We have had a long and meaningful career together. It is our true hope that he finds all he is looking for, and that he achieves the happiness he deserves. He will be missed." – Dream Theater. MICHAEL MONROE LIVE IN HELSINKI: Michael Monroe's upcoming live solo album with his new Michael Monroe Band, Another Night In The Sun will be released through Universal Music on September 29. Monroe rose to fame as the singer for Hanoi Rocks and has served as the frontman for many all-star collaborations including Guns 'N Roses and Demolition 23 with Little Steven. The band features bassist Sami Yaffa who has played bands including Hanoi Rocks, New York Dolls and Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, and guitarist Ginger who has dazzled audiences over the world with his band The Wildhearts. On guitar is Steve Conte, the New York Dolls master frontman and on drums Karl "Rockfist" Rosqvist, whose resume includes providing rhythm for the likes of Chelsea Smiles and Danzig. Track Listing: 1 Nothin´s Alright 03:38, 2 Motorvatin´ 03:23, 3 Hammersmith Palais 03:49, 4 You're Next 03:23, 5 Not Fakin´ It 03:54, 6 Dysfunctional 04:43, 7 I Wanna Be Loved 03:47, 8 Love Song 02:00, 9 Machine Gun Etiquette 01:43, 10 Motorheaded For A Fall 03:23, 11 Back To Mystery City 03:47, 12 Malibu Beach Nightmare 02:50, 13 Dead Jail Or Rock n Roll 04:57, 14 Ain´t Nothin' To Do 03:04, 15 1970 06:45.   M.ILL.ION COMPLETE ALBUM – STOCKHOLM ROCK OUT NEXT: M.ill.ion have now completed their new, yet untitled, album and celebrate this with a headline slot at the Stockholm Rock Out Festival this weekend. B.J Laneby says: "Finished mix and mastering at JM Studio yesterday and it feels really good. Great working together with Martin Kronlund (Phenomena, Joe Lynn Turner etc) on the mix and our new guys Andreas and Angelo have made a top job on guitar and keys. 12 very cool tracks - I think we have a really strong album coming up! More info and release date tba." This weekend, September 10-11 it's the Stockholm Rock Out Festival and M.ill.ion will headline the Tube Stage on Saturday. Other acts include U.D.O, Great White, Kingdome Come, Wig Wam and John Corabi. "Looking forward to hitting stage again! It's been a turbulent year for some of us. This cool festival will be our first show in a while and the premiere gig with this line up - we can´ t wait. Maybe You´ ll get to hear some new material as well. Hope to see you there!!" WebLinks: www.myspace.com/millionized / www.sthlmrockout.com / www.jmstudio.se.   NOW SLASH TO RE-ISSUE CURRENT SOLO ALBUM: Following yesterday's Ozzy news, another double-dip release to report on today - this time from Slash. His latest solo album is being re-released as a Special Edition containing: The $30 2 CD + DVD Box Set Includes: 13 bonus audio tracks, Behind the scenes "making of" documentary, Track by Track video interview with Slash, 3 Live concert performances, Video and "making of" for "By The Sword", Plus 12 page booklet, Limited edition guitar pick, Exclusive Fan photo mosaic poster and the original self-titled album. BLACK MAJESTY SHREDDERS TO PERFORM AT FENDER JAM: Hanny Mohamed & Stevie Janevski of Australian melodic power metallers Black Majesty will be amongst some of the special guests performing at the Fender Jam, playing their Jackson Guitars alongside band mate Evan Harris & Danny Cecati of Eyefear which promises to be a great finale for the Australian International Music Show - October 2 & 3 at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, Victoria, Australia. Other performers set to take part in the jam include Chris Cheney of The Living End, Jeff Martin, Phil Manning & James Ryan amongst others. Black Majesty have also made a new promo clip available for the song 'Wish You Well' from their latest cd In Your Honour which was filmed on their recent tour of Europe after their co-headlining performance at Basinfirefest in the Czech Republic. Check it out here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OD3VvUhNci8. MOTLEY CRUE GIG SURROUNDED BY SLUDGE OF OIL MONEY: Some of the money BP doled out to Alabama in the wake of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico will be used to fund a Motley Crue concert there. The city of Mobile is set to receive $1.35 million of the $65 million the state of Alabama will get to assist its economy recover from the damage done by the spill, reported the Mobile Press-Register yesterday. Of that money, about $600,000 will be spent bringing bands to Bayfest, the city's three day musical celebration. Although Bayfest was already set to receive $100,000 from the BP pool, the additional money will allow organizers to attract bigger name bands, including 1980s rockers Motley Crue, Bayfest President Bobby Bostick told the paper. Earth, Wind and Fire were also to play at the festival, the report said. Although Motley Crue was expected to cost $500,000, Bostick said larger-name bands will bring more fans to the event. Read more: www.news.com.au/world/alabama-town-blows-bp-oil-spill-recovery-money. 'DIO AT DONINGTON UK: LIVE 1983 AND 1987' 2 CD SET ON NOVEMBER 9: 2010 will go down as the year that we lost one of hard rock/heavy metal's all-time great vocalists, Ronnie James Dio (after a valiant battle with cancer). Throughout a career that saw Ronnie pen or co-pen classics with such legendary acts as Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell, and with his solo group, Dio, there are simply not enough words to describe the singer's contribution to rock music worldwide. And to celebrate the life of the man that has become synonymous with metal, several new releases will soon be arriving, that are certain to please Dio's large and loyal fanbase. On November 9th, the double disc set, 'Dio at Donington UK: Live 1983 & 1987' will be released. The first disc was recorded at the first-ever UK performance by Dio's solo group, while on tour supporting their classic debut, 'Holy Diver.' And the set-list does a superb job reflecting Dio's debut (featuring such classics as "Rainbow in the Dark," "Stand Up And Shout," etc.), as well as classics from both Rainbow and Black Sabbath ("Man on the Silver Mountain," "Heaven and Hell," etc.) - resulting in a thoroughretrospective of Dio's career, from Rainbow to Black Sabbath to solo hits. The second disc of 'Dio at Donington UK: Live 1983 & 1987' features guitarist Craig Goldy's debut - recorded in 1987, in support of the 'Dream Evil' album, and contains highlights from Dio's career. 'Dio at Donington UK: Live 1983 & 1987' will be the very first release from the Niji Entertainment Group (which was formed by Ronnie James Dio and his wife/manager, Wendy Dio, in early 2010). The set will be released as a deluxe digipak including a booklet filled with rare photographs and liner notes, and original replica all access laminates from both shows. Ronnie was the executive producer on the Donington project, and was very much looking forward to the release. The Niji Entertainment Group is a full service record label, and will be releasing rare and unreleased recordings from Dio and other artists. November 23rd will see two additional releases from the Niji Entertainment Group - a deluxe limited edition picture disc of Dio's classic solo debut, 'Holy Diver,' and 'Bitten By The Beast' from David "Rock" Feinstein. "Rock" is Ronnie's cousin, and was a member of Elf, and the leader of the legendary NY band The Rods. 'Bitten By The Beast,' features the single "Metal Will Never Die," with lead vocals by Ronnie James Dio. This single will be heavily worked to active rock and metal radio this fall. In 2011, the Niji Entertainment Group has many other Dio-related projects planned, including an extensive vinyl box set (an idea that Ronnie himself came up with), 'For The Record: The Complete Dio Vinyl Collection,' which will feature 16 LP's in a deluxe carrying case, with "all access tour laminates" from every tour. All of the LP's will be on 180 gram colored vinyl. Also, being released for the first time on DVD will be 'Super Rock Japan 1985' (which was only ever released in Japan on VHS). Another forthcoming DVD release will be a collection of every Dio MTV promotional video, plus live concert footage including bonus features, including interviews with Ronnie, his band, and crew. A Dio bootleg box set is on the horizon as well, featuring never-before-released sound board recordings and audience recordings. Other releases from the Niji Entertainment Group in 2011 will include all four Rainbow Dio-era LP's in their original gatefold sleeves on 180 gram colored vinyl, and all three Elf LP's will be issued on 180 gram colored vinyl. 2011 will also see deluxe reissues from Tim "Ripper" Owens, a fantastic new CD from Oni Logan (Lynch Mob vocalist), and Rowan Robertson (Dio guitarist), as well as live Elf. Between Facebook, MySpace and Twitter, the Dio social media followers now numbers over one million. The Niji Entertainment Group is in the process of starting the official Dio webstore, which will give fans worldwide opportunity to purchase t-shirts, limited edition items, and CD's/DVD's that fans have been requesting. While Ronnie was alive, he always wanted to have his own action figure/statue. And now, this has become a reality - KnuckleBonz has created the Ronnie James Dio rock iconz statue, which will be available in late fall 2010. These statues are only produced in limited edition runs of 3000, which make them highly collectible and sought after from fans. A portion from the sales of the Dio statue will go to the Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund, in honor of Ronnie James Dio. Preorders available by visiting www.knucklebonz.com. For more information, please visit: www.ronniejamesdio.com / www.facebook.com/OfficialRonnieJamesDio / www.myspace.com/dioofficial. HARDREAMS ISSUE FIRST LIVE ALBUM: Melodic rockers from Spain Hardreams have just released a new live album Live…On a Dreamers Night, recorded live at Salamandra, on November 28th, 2009 in L' Hospitalet (Barcelona), opening for Jimi Jamison. The album has been mixed and mastered by Tomi Perez at Boo boo's Studios and contains 11 tracks: 1- Wings on Fire. 2- Rebel Heart. 3- My Last Desire. 4- Bad Times are Gone. 5-Too Late. 6- We're One. 7- I'll Say Bye Tonight. 8- Apologies. 9- Little Sinner Queen. 10- Two Shots. 11- Ain't talkin 'bout Love (Van Halen cover). You can already hear some samples at the band's MySpace: www.myspace.com/hardreams. If you are interested in getting "Live…On a Dreamers Night" order now at: hardreamsmusic@hotmail.com.   NEW FROM HEAVY LABEL 7HARD: Iridium is the new interpretation of progressive metal by Empty Tremor. Various influences and an extreme attention to arrangements make the album a container of 9 masterpieces, that the wonderful Giò De Luigi voice enhances in an intense emotional involvement. The Empty Tremor album long awaited by fans! The new album "Iridium" (Progressive Metal) by Empty Tremor will be distributed by 7Hard worldwide and is available at October 1st. Info: www.7hart.de/empty-tremor-iridium. Destination Unknown is the final amalgamation between the shredding and the good Hard & Heavy music. Some instrumental pieces alternate with songs. This album is recommended to all the fans of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal and absolutely a must for guitar lovers. The new album "Destination Unknown" (Shredder/Hard Rock) by Ivan Mihaljevic (Hard Time) will be distributed by 7Hard worldwide and is available October 1st. Info: www.7hart.de/ivan-mihaljevic-destination-unknown. An album with a nervous core between hardcore and metal, melody based on decadent virtuoso, low beat rap echoes, elegant bass parts and lashing guitars. The self titled debut album by Kuadra (Italian Nu Metal/Rapcore) will be distributed by 7Hard worldwide and is available October 01. Info: www.7hart.de/kuadra-st. ROTOSOUND PRESENTS BILLY SHEEHAN HOLLYWOOD GUITAR CENTRE WORKSHOP: Rotosound are proud to announce an exclusive workshop with the legendary bassist Billy Sheehan at the Hollywood Guitar Centre on the October 21, 2010, 7PM-10PM. Known for his work with Steve Vai, David Lee Roth and Mr. Big, Billy has won many Best Bass Player awards and continues to be one of the most in demand players on the planet. He will demonstrate his jaw dropping technique with the use of chording, two-handed tapping, right hand "three finger picking" technique and controlled feedback as well as giving an incite to the industry and his career. The evening includes a question and answer session, an opportunity to meet Billy to get his autograph and will be an amazing opportunity to see up close one the worlds most technically accomplished players in a comfortable and intimate setting. Billy has been a Rotosound endorsee for over 25 years and his signature stainless steel roundwound strings have helped shaped his unique sound. He will also be playing further master classes in association with Rotosound across the Atlantic at the Bass day UK in October 2010 plus a further three dates at the PMT stores in Bristol, Birmingham and Manchester. To find out more about the Rotosound Strings visit: www.rotosound.com.   MR-X UPDATED: MR-X Members Only area has been updated with the following new features: - Tom Cochrane - Live at Jackson-Triggs Amphitheatre, Canada July 03, 2010 (11 Tracks, Semi-Acoustic w/Ken Greer of Red Rider) - Bryan Adams - Westwood One Live 1987 - Ultimate Edition (19 Tracks, the full concert!) - Video - Winger & Slaughter MTV Unplugged (5 Tracks - Headed For A Heartbreak, Fly To The Angels, Revolution, Loosen Up, Can't Get Enough) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, September 09, 2010

MIKE PORTNOY QUITS DREAM THEATER: Shocker of the week - drummer Mike Portnoy quits Dream Theater after disagreements over future scheduling and wanted down time. Straight from Mike's website comes this statement: "I am about to write something I never imagined I'd ever write: After 25 years, I have decided to leave Dream Theater....the band I founded, led and truly loved for a quarter of a century. To many people this will come as a complete shock, and will also likely be misunderstood by some, but please believe me that it is not a hasty decision...it is something I have struggled with for the last year or so.... After having had such amazing experiences playing with Hail, Transatlantic and Avenged Sevenfold this past year, I have sadly come to the conclusion that I have recently had more fun and better personal relations with these other projects than I have for a while now in Dream Theater... Please don't misinterpret me, I love the DT guys dearly and have a long history, friendship and bond that runs incredibly deep with them...it's just that I think we are in serious need of a little break... Dream Theater was always my baby...and I nurtured that baby every single day and waking moment of my life since 1985...24/7, 365...never taking time off from DT's never-ending responsibilities (even when the band was "off" between cycles)...working overtime and way beyond the call of duty that most sane people ever would do for a band... But I've come to the conclusion that the DT machine was starting to burn me out...and I really needed a break from the band in order to save my relationship with the other members and keep my DT spirit hungry and inspired. We have been on an endless write/record/tour cycle for almost 20 years now (of which I have overseen EVERY aspect without a break) and while a few months apart from each other here & there over the years has been much needed and helpful, I honestly hoped the band could simply agree with me to taking a bit of a "hiatus" to recharge our batteries and "save me from ourselves"... Sadly, in discussing this with the guys, they determined they do not share my feelings and have decided to continue without me rather than take a breather...I even offered to do some occasional work throughout 2011 against my initial wishes, but it was not to be... While it truly hurts for me to even think of a Dream Theater without Mike Portnoy (hell, my father named the band!!), I do not want to stand in their way...so I have decided to sacrifice myself and simply leave the band so as to not hold them back against their wishes.... Strangely enough, I just read an interview that I recently did that asked me about the future of DT and I talked about "always following your heart and being true to yourself"...sadly I must say that at this particular moment, my heart is not with Dream Theater...and I would simply be "going through the motions", and would honestly NOT be true to myself if I stayed for the sake of obligation without taking the break I felt I needed. I wish the guys the best and hope the music and legacy we created together is enjoyed by fans for decades to come...I am proud of every album we made, every song we wrote and every show we played.... I'm sorry to all the disappointed DT fans around the world...I really tried to salvage the situation and make it work...I honestly just wanted a break (not a split)...but happiness cannot be forced, it needs to come from within.... You DT fans are the greatest fans in the world and as you all know, I have always busted my ass for you guys and I hope that you will stay with me on my future musical journey, wherever it may lead me....(and as you all know my work ethic, there will surely be no shortage of future MP projects!) Sadly... Your fearless ex-leader and drummer, MP. MELODIC BRIEFS: Screwing the fans just a little bit more this week is Mr. Ozzy Osbourne. His recent album Scream will now be re-issued in the USA October 5 with a second bonus disc containing 7 previously unreleased tracks/live recordings. Bah! You can sample a new Steve Augeri song titled Home Again from his upcoming solo album via the "Music" link at www.steveaugeri.com. An additional instrumental demo can be heard via the frontpage media player. www.steveaugeri.com. Eric Martin continues his love affair with Japan. His Love Is Alive compilation was released there yesterday and Mr. Big was mentioned as due in December only yesterday. Now comes news that his solo covers series of releases continues with Mr. Vocalist 3 due November 3! Steve Stevens will be appearing at an in-store meet and greet on September 12th at 2 p.m. The location is Steve's Music Store 51 St-Antoine West Montreal, QC. Later that evening, Steve performs with Billy Idol at Metropolis. The new Jimmy Eat World single can be heard via: www.myspace.com/jimmyeatworld. Holy Water are back in the studio recording material for a new record to be released, hopefully, sometime in 2011. New songs include "When It Rains," "Dead Of Night," "Building Houses," "My Obsession" and a re-worked, newly recorded version of "Once Is Not Enough" from The Collected Sessions. The line-up features Holy Water mainstays David Knight (vocals), Thomas Jude (guitar) and Freddy Villano (bass), along with Bobby Marks on drums and Jay Davidson on keyboards. Hardrock Haven is looking to add writers to their review crew. If interested, go to this link: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/hardrock-haven-looking-for-cdalbum-review-staff/ Kipp Lennon of Venice has just posted his first blog entry from rehearsals for Roger Waters' "The Wall" world tour. Read all at: www.venicecentral.com/behindthewall.html. SOULSPELL: "THE LABYRINTH OF TRUTHS" DETAILS ANNOUNCED!: The second full-length album from the Brazilian power metal opera project Soulspell; "The Labyrinth of Truths" will be released during the fall [see release dates below]. The album features guests like Jon Oliva [Jon Oliva's Pain, ex. Savatage], Roland Grapow [Masterplan, ex. Helloween], Zak Stevens [Circle II Circle, ex. Savatage] and Edu Falaschi [Angra]. The project is conceived by drummer Heleno Vale. Many vocalists play different characters in a story concerning the conflicts among human emotions. These characters face situations of internal conflict as they are requested for making decisions which, without their knowledge, affect and change the course of the present, future, and even past of all the other characters. The Soulspell story intends to make us wonder how a fifteen-year-old boy, a powerful evil dragon, or even a simple humble lumberjack, by simply living and believing, can interfere in the lives of all in every possible dimension. The release dates for "The Labyrinth of Truths"; October 8th - Europe and North America [Inner Wound] October 8th - South America [Hellion] August 25th - Japan [Spiritual Beast] For more information, and samples from the album, head over to: www.myspace.com/soulspellmetalopera.   DROWNING POOL SINGER CALLS FOR SUPPORT: Ayden Rose, the three-year-old son of Drowning Pool singer Ryan McCombs, was severely injured in a riding lawn mower accident recently that left severe damage to his right leg. Ayden will unfortunately need multiple surgeries and has a very long road of recovery ahead of him. To help lighten the financial burden, a benefit show is being held in Dallas, TX on September 19th at Reno's Chop Shop, with auction and raffle items that have been donated by friends in the music and sports industry to aid this cause. Please click here for the full event details. In addition, the McCombs' family and friends are asking those who can, to help raise funds for Ayden's astronomical medical bills: "Our little guy has a long road ahead of him but he's a toughy like his Mom. He's endured ten procedures and I'm afraid he has many more to go. Any monetary donations that people would like to send can be made out to "Ayden Rose" and send to the following address: Ayden Rose, P.O. Box 86963, Baton Rouge, LA 70879. The outreach from our friends and fans has been very touching to Katherine and I both. Thank you again, - Ryan McCombs."

 

 

Wednesday, September 08, 2010

NEW MR. BIG SET FOR DECEMBER!: Eric Martin reports that Mr. Big is to start recording of their new studio album tomorrow! He says: "I can't wait to see what makes this album since we have written so many songs together. Based on our pre-production demos, it's very reminiscent of Lean Into It." This album is scheduled for release first up in Japan on December 15. More details to come. FRONTIERS RECORDS - ARTIST UPDATES: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of Vega, a very exciting new Melodic Rock band from the UK, featuring former Kick vocalist Nick Workman and the successful and respected songwriting partnership of Tom and James Martin (House of Lords, Ted Poley of Danger Danger, Khymera, Sunstorm to name but a few), together with drummer Dan Chantrey. Vega are set to bring back the reputation of British Melodic Rock music with a strongly original sound approach that while obviously influenced by the genre's greatest names (from Bon Jovi, to Def Leppard and Journey) adds a strong personal element that will definitely bring the band to the attention of a very wide audience. The band's debut album Kiss Of Life has been recorded under the direction of producer John Greatwood (engineer for Tom Lord-Alge of Queen fame), with the band selecting a total of 12 songs out of a total of 25 written for the purpose. Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69) stepped up to the plate to put the final touches to the album, mastering it in his studio in Germany. The band has also recently finished the shooting of the first video for the album title track, which will be launched as first single in the fall. Singer Nick Workman commented: "We are pleased and excited to be signed to Frontiers Records. We are very proud of this album and believe that it brings new vibe to the rock scene whilst maintaining the roots of all of the bands that have inspired us over the years!" Frontiers plans to release the debut album Kiss of Life later this year with more details to follow later. VEGA will be out on the road in the new year taking their music to the Rock fans live on stage! WebLink: www.myspace.com/vegaofficial.   Swedish guitarist Magnus Karlsson (Primal Fear, Starbreaker, Last Tribe) has finished laying down his parts for the forthcoming solo album from Ralf Scheepers of German power metallers Primal Fear. According to a posting on the Primal Fear web site, "Magnus delivered his guitar parts on some songs of the album and did a killer job as always. Just some more lead guitars are missing by some other great players and we're ready to mix the album after the forthcoming [Primal Fear] European tour!" As previously reported, powerhouse American vocalist Tim "Ripper" Owens (Hail!, Yngwie Malmsteen, Beyond Fear, Judas Priest, Iced Earth) will make a guest appearance on Scheepers' forthcoming CD. Owens will be heard dueting with Scheepers in the track "Remission Of Sin". Other guest musicians expected to appear on the album include Swedish multi-instrumentalist Snowy Shaw (Dimmu Borgir, Therion, Dream Evil, King Diamond, Mercyful Fate) on drums, Sander Gommans (After Forever, HDK) on guitar and Primal Fear's Mat Sinner playing bass on the entire LP and producing. A photo shoot with Alex Kuehr for the CD's cover took place in early July in Germany. In a recent interview with the "Metalzone" radio show (web site) with Kostas Purevil Kyriakakis and Helena Mihailidou, Scheepers revealed that his upcoming solo album will include a remake of his song "Saints Of Rock" from Scheepers' pre-Primal Fear band Tyran Pace and a cover version of "Before The Dawn' from Judas Priest. "'Saints Of Rock' is gonna be, of course, a little bit more modern than it was [when the original version was recorded] in 1986," he explained. "I mean, right now we have much more possibilities to make songs sound a little bit more modern, starting with the drum sound and the bass sounds ­ having a much more distorted sound." He added, "I think 'Before The Dawn' pretty much is a [straight] cover ­ [there's] just a little more orchestral things going on, I have more strings in the song compared to the Judas Priest [original]. Back then there wasn't much strings going on. I think they even have a piano [in the original version], which I don't have. I have strings and I have this atmosphere stuff going on. Vocal-wise, I just added a harmony at the last bridge before last chorus, I added a harmony which is not on the original, but that's the basic difference." In a June 2010 interview with Metal Assault, Scheepers stated about the musical direction of his forthcoming solo CD, "It's more diverse [than Primal Fear], you can say." He added, "In the beginning I had those ballads that we couldn't use for Primal Fear because they might be too mellow, but now we've started to write together on it. Basically, it's my ideas on it, but I have a great team, with Mat and Magnus and some other members ­ Sander [Gommans], the ex-After Forever guitarist, helped me a lot. It's a good variety ­ from the hardest to the softest tones." Primal Fear recently released a new live DVD, "16.6 - All Over The World" (recorded in various locations between September and November 2009), and a live CD, aptly titled "Live In The USA". The brand new Primal Fear European tour is about to kick off: 18.09.2010 POL - Warsaw - Progresja 19.09.2010 CZ - Pardubice - Zluty Pes Pardubice 21.09.2010 D - Aschaffenburg - Colossaal 22.09.2010 D - Munich - Backstage 23.09.2010 D - Cologne - Underground 25.09.2010 IT - Bari Modugno - Demode 26.09.2010 IT - Rome - Black Out 28.09.2010 AUT - Woergl - Komma 29.09.2010 D - Nuernberg - Hirsch 30.09.2010 D - Osnabrueck - Lagerhalle 01.10.2010 D - Burglengenfeld - VA Zentrum 02.10.2010 D - Bad Arolsen - Outback 04.10.2010 SWE - Vaesteras - Sigurdsgatan2 05.10.2010 SWE - Stockholm - Gotokolare 06.10.2010 SWE - Gothenburg - Sticky Fingers 08.10.2010 FIN - Tampere - Sputnik 09.10.2010 FIN - Helsinki - Dantes Highlight 11.10.2009 D - Hamburg - New Headbangers Ballroom 12.10.2010 FRA - Paris - La Scene Bastille 13.10.2010 FRA - Lyon - Marche Gare 14.10.2010 FRA - Mulhouse - Noumatrouf 15.10.2010 D - Speyer - Halle 101 04.12.2010 BEL - Kuuren – Hippodrom Underdawg Promotion has arranged the following Club Parties in Germany to celebrate the release of the highly anticipated Kiske – Somerville album. 23.9 Ochsenfurt @ Postkeller 23.9 Ludenscheid @ Alte Druckerei 24.9 Uster (CH) @ Rock City 24.9 Ludwigsburg @ Rock Fabirk (Michael Kiske and Amanda Somerville will make a special personal appearance in this party!) 25.9 Darmstadt @ Steinbruch Theater During the parties the album and videoclips will be played in full and some free copies of the album will be raffled. Mind Key have recently announced the addition of the new drummer Mirkko De Maio to the line-up. The band issued the following statement: "We are very pleased with Mirkko. We think he's 100% the right man for us. His musical background, his experience (although he's really young) and his incredible energy and taste in playing make him the perfect fit for MK". Mind Key looks forward to present the new guy on stage and to continue the evolving musical path started with the recent release of the band's second album "Pulse for a Graveheart". You can have an introduction to Mirkko at www.mirkkodemaio.com. In the meantime, Mind Key have redesigned their with a new layout and a RSS Feed feature to follow every news about the band. Check it out at www.mindkey.it. Last but not least, the band started the songwriting for the third album which the guys hope to release by the end of 2011.   METHODS OF MAYHEM'S NEW VIDEO "TIME BOMB" TO MAKE PREMIERE ON EXTRA! TONIGHT: (New York, NY) – Time Bomb, the brand new video from Tommy Lee and his Methods Of Mayhem will make its premiere tonight, Tuesday, September 7, on NBC's Extra! Tune in at 7:00PM in New York City and Los Angeles, check local listings for times in other cities. The video features Tommy Lee starring in numerous fast-paced vignettes coupled with futuristic visual effects and is a stunning optical companion to the ferociously catchy song. Log on to www.extratv.com or www.tommylee.tv after 7:30PM, EST/4:30PM, PST to view the video in its entirety. "Time Bomb" is currently heating up at radio at the Active and Modern Rock formats. Methods Of Mayhem's new album A Public Disservicement Announcement will be released on Tuesday, September 21 via Roadrunner/Loud & Proud Records and features Lee collaborating with the world. Lee and his team, including producer Scott Humphrey, singer-guitarist J3 and others, wrote and recorded the songs for the album, then made the core components of each available for download on www.thepublicrecord.com to anyone who wished to add their playing or otherwise re-interpret the music however they saw fit. The song files were made available on The Public Record on October 5th, 2009. By the end of the submission period in February, 2010, the page was viewed over 1 million times and over 10,000 submissions were uploaded. Lee listened to every single submission that was uploaded, chose the best, and integrated the actual audio tracks into the album's final cuts. Every musician whose part was used is credited and thanked on the album…and those who made the cut will find out for the first time on Tuesday, September 21 when the album is released! Methods of Mayhem self-titled debut was released in 1999 and was certified RIAA Gold. The album featured Snoop Dogg, Kid Rock and Fred Durst among others. Methods Of Mayhem's set was a featured highlight of 2000's Ozzfest. ENVISION RADIO NETWORKS'® THE TOUR BUS CELEBRATES 600th SHOW: This week marks the 600th broadcast of Envision Radio Networks®' The Tour Bus with Ralph Sutton and Stacey X. After 600 shows, The Tour Bus has amassed some amazing tunes and Ralph and Stacey X are celebrating with a special All Covers Show on The Tour Bus. The duo will be digging out their favorite covers, from the hard to find to the covers we all know and love. This 600th show will feature covers from such artists as Judas Priest, Van Halen, and Queensryche along with deep cuts, including a rock version of Donna Summer's "Hot Stuff" and a metal version of Phil Collin's "Easy Lover." "I think back to over a decade ago when we first started at a tiny station in NJ – and now – the show is on nationwide with thousands of fans. The show has had every band I have ever wanted on The Tour Bus – on," said Ralph Sutton of this important milestone. "I have become friends with tons of my childhood heroes, and I couldn't be happier! I can't wait to tackle the next 600 shows!" Ralph Sutton and Stacey X host The Tour Bus, the three hour rock and roll meltdown available for both rock and classic rock. The rock version of The Tour Bus mixes classic bands like Van Halen, Motley Crue, Scorpions and Judas Priest, with today's top rockers including Buckcherry, HIM, and Avenged Sevenfold. Tour Bus Classic features memorable hits, live tracks and rarities from artists including AC/DC, Aerosmith, Metallica, Def Leppard and many more! Both versions feature music news, tour updates, and weekly interviews, all while playing 10 songs per hour.

 

 

Tuesday, September 07, 2010

DEBUT BY AUSTRALIAN HARD ROCKERS WHITE WIDDOW TO BE RELEASED OCTOBER 29: Hailing from Melbourne Australia, White Widdow was formed in 2008 by charismatic front man Jules Millis along with Bassist Trent Wilson and Guitar virtuoso Enzo Almanzi. From its inception the vision was always to write and perform 80's Arena style melodic rock and hard edged AOR inspired by artists such as White Sister, Survivor, Treat, Dokken, Aviator, Bon Jovi and Australia's own Roxus. After initial sessions it was clear to them that to fulfill the sound they wanted, they would require a full time keyboard player. Jules immediately enlisted the help of his brother Xavier Millis on the keyboards, a two time ARIA (Australian Record Industry Award) nominee and a well versed keyboard player in many musical styles. With Xavier onboard, the writing team was in place and the line-up was then completed with Jim Naish on drums. Starting out playing live amongst the diverse Melbourne Rock scene, White Widdow quickly established themselves as a solid live unit throughout their native Australia. In mid 2009 White Widdow recorded and released their free digital only EP which was very well received in selected press. With their debut Self Titled album, the full vision of White Widdow has become a reality. With absolutely no concerns about modern rock trends the band has followed their hearts and proudly wear their 80's influences on their sleeves . Mixed and Mastered by Martin Kronlund (Overland, Joe Lynn Turner, Hammerfall, Bangalore Choir) at JM Studios in Sweden, White Widdow have put together an album full of Melodic Rock and AOR anthems filled with swirling keyboards, blistering guitar playing and big choruses full of hooks, the way they believe rock music should. Soundfiles in advance: Broken Hearts Won't Last Forever / Change Of Passion / We've Got The Wings. WebLink: www.whitewiddow.com.   xx Metal Heaven is pleased to announce the signing of Swiss Hard Rock outfit Sideburn to their label for Europe & Japan release (except Switzerland). The band comments: "We have been in contact with Georg at AOR Heaven since the release of Cherry Red, who has done a great work promoting it and our previous releases. And as we are pretty loyal, it's a quite a logical move for us to collaborate with such a passionate company." Sideburn are: Roland Pierrehumbert - Vocals, Fred Gudit - Rythm Guitars, Boris - Lead Guitar, Michel Demierre - Bass, Lionel Blanc - Drums. The new album will be released in February 2011 and will be co-produced, mixed and mastered by the legendary producer Beau Hill. WebLink: www.sideburn.ch / www.aorheaven.com / www.metalheaven.net.   INTRODUCING SOME DOWN UNDER TALENT: I just wanted to bring to the attention of readers, some bright new Australian talent. First up is young Melbourne based pop/rocker Michael Paynter. Check out his new single Love The Fall (featuring The Veronica's) at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMIfbsUyKZc&ob=av2e. Paynter's debut album will be out next year via Sony. Then for fans of female rockers, Australian Idol's Haley Warner's new single Hands Off is a great little track (with a dumb video): www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTaX30QyfU0. And not quite an Aussie, but New Zealander Dane Rumble has a grrat pop track out now called Always Be Here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcf6UYVKbGo. TONY HARNELL JOINS QUEEN (RHAPSODY!): This November Tony Harnell is proud to be performing in Queen Symphonic Rhapsody throughout Spain! This tour will include an incredible 45 piece orchestra and rock band and three other amazing singers (Jon Stevens from Inxs; Mick Wilson of 10CC; Sheila D Wheat of James Brown's band). This show will launch in Spain but they are looking to carry the show to other countries in the future. If you're in Spain or want to take a winter vacation to one of the most beautiful countries in the world, please brush up on your Spanish, check out the website and get some tickets. It's going to be amazing! In related news Tony Harnell has a new online store open at: www.tonyharnell.com. ShowLink: www.moonwrecords.com/04/ficha.php.   THE CHOP SHOP LAUNCHES NEWLY REDESIGNED WEBSITE: Envision Radio Networks® The Chop Shop Guitar Show is proud to debut its newly revamped website online at www.chopshopradio.com. The new site gathers everything a music fan wants in one portal including a library of interviews with some of the greatest guitarists of all time, a brand new concert photo gallery, and The Chop Shop Hall of Fame which received a new design and layout. Fans and affiliates alike can navigate the streamlined site easily and with the addition of social networking integration, the site is more interactive and updated with the latest guitar news, show highlights, and specials posted the moment the news breaks. "Our new site is integrated with all the popular social networking sites. If I post some Slash news on Twitter (twitter.com/chopshopradio) or Facebook (facebook.com/chopshopguitarshow), it instantly appears on our website as well," said Steve Black, host of The Chop Shop. "The site implements all the key components of new media - integrating social media, fresh banners and an easy-to-use interface," said Michelle Hildebrandt from Studio 513, who is the web graphic artist and designer for www.chopshopradio.com. "It was a great opportunity to work with Steve Black and the Chop Shop team, their talent and passion shines through on this site." There is no shortage of talent working on the website, with artwork and graphic design by John Rios from Grafixjam, who has worked with artists like Ted Nugent, Billy Idol and Nikki Sixx, and a brand new concert photo gallery from Chris A. Photography with the latest show highlights and specials. "The addition of our concert photo wing from Chris A. is also a great companion to the site. Chris is a well-respected concert photographer, and we will be able to rotate photos to keep the site looking professional and fresh," says Black of the new addition to the website. The Chop Shop and Chop Shop Classic feature weekly updates on bands and tours, web exclusive content, and special guests all while playing 10 songs an hour. Both versions are two hours in length and contain two feature interviews as well as the exclusive Chop Shop Hall of Fame feature, where such guests as Ted Nugent, Brian May, Leslie West, and hundreds others pay tribute to guitar legends Eddie Van Halen, Jimi Hendrix, Angus Young, Slash and more. Step inside The Chop Shop at www.chopshopradio.com. Contact Matt Wardlaw at mattw@envisionradio.com or 216-831-3761 for more details about The Chop Shop Guitar Show. Envision Radio Networks® provides content and services to more than 1,000 radio stations and reaches over 40 million listeners weekly. Envision Radio Networks, Inc. is the largest independently owned affiliate relations company in the country and supplies all types of programming and services to radio including morning show prep, short-form vignettes, live syndicated morning shows, long-form weekend programming, comedy services, remote broadcasts and event programming, off-air tools and web content, album releases and artist specials. Envision Radio Networks® is based in Cleveland, Ohio, with offices in New York City and Los Angeles. JOSH RAMOS GUITAR FOR SALE: A piece of AOR history is available for the cashed up fan. Josh Ramos has listed his sparkled black cherry Washburn MG 44 guitar with maple neck for sale. It has 2 Humbuking pickups and a single coil in the middle, hard shell grey inset case. Josh says it is: "In very good condition. This guitar was used in the recording of the 1st Storm CD and video featuring the song (Show me the Way)" Serious buyers only - $2500. Includes a copy of the video featuring the guitar, the making of the video and box of 12 sets of strings. To discuss purchase, please e-mail: joshstrm@yahoo.com.   NEW SMILEK CD READY TO BE STRANDED: AMG Music is proud to announce the new release from Virginia based band Smilek. The new CD Stranded is available now at: www.smilek.com. Digital downloads are available at: www.cdbaby.com/cd/smilek. Smilek has been described as melodic/modern rock with a slight southern twist. Weblinks: www.smilek.com / www.myspace.com/smilek / www.facebook.com/SMILEKmusic. Stranded will feature the following tracks: 1. All Your Own 2. I Aint No Good 3. Stranded 4. Put A Little Love (on the line) 5. Touch Of Pain 6. American Dream 7. Fields Of Fire 8. Better Days 9. Promise To Remember. Smilek is: Marty Smilek – Lead Vocals, Bass; Bruce Crump (Molly Hatchet, Gator Country) Drums, Percussion and Kevin Tipton – Guitars, Backing Vocals.   THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD SHOW ANNOUNCES 2011 GREATEST HITS WORLD TOUR: The Australian Pink Floyd Show, fresh from the success of a sell out tour in 2010 will be back in Europe in 2011 with an even bigger and better show. Beginning in January, the 2011 tour starts in Poland and brings with it not only the trademark lighting and laser show, but a brand new quadraphonic sound system and cinema quality 3D visuals. The band is very proud of and excited about the new show which includes for the first time 3D stereographic video. This technology is the same as used in 3D cinemas, where the audience wears 3D polarized glasses to create the illusion of images reaching out. The new technology combined with the quadraphonic sound system will give fans a truly amazing spine tingling concert experience not to be missed! Steve Mac, singer and guitarist with The Australian Pink Floyd, said "we can't wait to get back on the road. This show is the biggest and best yet. With the state of the art 3D effects and the amazing quadraphonic sound we have some real surprises planned for our fans. We have never been so strong". Their upcoming Pink Floyd Greatest Hits World Tour 2011 showcases the most spectacular Floyd tribute of all time. With over two hours of the absolute best of Floyd live, it is the sort of spectacularly ostentatious setting that all true Floyd fans will relish. The first tour dates confirmed and on-sale now are as follows: Poland: 22 January 2011, City: Rzeszow, Venue: Na Podpromiu Poland: 23 January 2011, City: Plock, Venue: Orlen Arena Poland: 24 January 2011, City: Gdansk, Venue: Hala Sportowo - Widowiskowa Poland: 25 January 2011, City: Bydgoszcz, Venue: Luczniczka Poland: 27 January 2011, City: Warszawa, Venue: Torwar Poland: 28 January 2011, City: Lublin, Venue: Globus Poland: 29 January 2011, City: Katowice, Venue: Spodek The Australian Pink Floyd Show takes the Pink Floyd tribute experience to a new level. More UK and European tour dates will be announced very shortly so please check for further information the bands website on www.aussiefloyd.com. STONELAKE WORKING ON A NEW ALBUM: Sweden's Heavy Metal band StoneLake is now in the studio to working on a new album! It will be a follow up to "Shades Of Eternity", but with more massive sound, very heavy guitar's and walls of big drums. There will be a couple of well known guest players on lead guitar and a duet song with a well known metal singer! The new album will sound like StoneLake powerful high energy heavy metal with melodic melodies as always with high pitch vocals. The recordings will take place at UMP Studios in Sweden and the producing, mixing and mastering will be handled of Jan Akesson. More details coming soon: www.7hart.de/stonelake-new-album. 7Hard is proud to announce a distribution deal with the French Stoner Rock/Metal band - 7 Weeks! The new 7 Weeks album "All Channels Off" will be released at the 07. October 2010 in Europe. A tour follow this autumn in France, Germany and Belgium: www.7hart.de/7-weeks-joins-7hard. MORE LION MUSIC NEWS: Twinspirits have just made available the promotional video for the track 'Number One'. The track is taken from their critically acclaimed album 'The Forbidden City' which was released last year on Lion Music. Directed by Salvatore "Xavy" Perrone. Twinspirits are: Goran Nystrom: Vocals, Tommy Ermolli: Guitars, Alberto Rigoni: Bass, Daniele Liverani: Keyboards, Dario Ciccioni: Drums. Song "Number One" is taken from the album "The Forbidden City" released by Lion Music 11/09/2009: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xccueqcxgnA. Video shoot at Geo-Palaeontological museum of Cava Bomba (Cinto Euganeo, Padova) on 25/08/2010, under the patronage of province of Padova. A special thanks to them for allowing the band to shoot on the location. The Swedish traditional metal exponents Overdrive have a few dates coming up: 09 Sep 2010: Sigurdsgatan 25 Vasteras, Vastmanlan, Sweden 11 Sep 2010: Gloria Kulttuuriareena Helsinki, Finland 03 Dec 2010: Compagniet (Karlshamn) Karlshamn, Blekinge, Sweden WebLinks: www.overdrive.se / www.myspace.com/overdrivesweden. BLOOD ALLIANCE: Just a few days to go now until Power Quest return to the studio to record Blood Alliance, the follow up to 2008's "Master of Illusion". All songs have been selected and a couple of the titles are "Rising Anew" and "Time to Burn". There will be 9 songs on the album proper with 1 bonus track as well. The band plan to have recording wrapped up during the first week of October. PQ main man Steve Williams commented, "I don't actually ever recall being so excited about an album as I am about Blood Alliance. I just can't wait for everyone to hear it!" Recording will take place at Foel Studios in Wales (www.foelstudio.co.uk )which has seen many famous artists work there over the years including Paul Rodgers, Napalm Death and the Wildhearts. Check in for regular studio updates on MySpace or Facebook. WebLinks: www.power-quest.co.uk / www.napalmrecords.com. HALFORD IV - MADE OF METAL: Metal God Entertainment and Rob Halford are pleased to announce the release of 'Halford IV - Made Of Metal' featuring fourteen (14) new Halford studio recordings debuting world-wide September 27th (UK & EU), September 28th (North America) and October 13, 2010 (Japan). Produced by Roy Z. and recorded during 2009 and 2010, Made Of Metal showcases a bulk of material (words & music) penned exclusively by Rob Halford. Made Of Metal features fourteen (14) new Halford studio tracks including: The Mower, Made Of Metal, Fire And Ice, Till The Day I Die, Undisputed, Heartless and Thunder And Lightning. Halford's new NASCAR-themed, animated-music video 'Made Of Metal' created by London-based Animator Dean Wright debuts September 13, 2010. Sneak peek now available at: www.robhalford.com/madeofmetal. The single 'Made Of Metal' digital download available at iTunes and www.HalfordMusic.com. Halford's first live performances in more than seven years has included appearances this year in San Francisco, Montreal's Heavy Metal Festival and Ozzfest 2010. Halford have confirmed Headline performances October 15, 2010 in Nagoya, Japan and October 16, 2010 at Tokyo's Loud Park Festival 10. Halford have also confirmed South America Headline performances October 20 Lima, Peru; October 22 Santiago, Chile; October 24 Sao Paulo, Brazil; October 26 and October 27, 2010 Buenos Aires, Argentina. November and December Halford touring details will be announced September 21, 2010 at: www.robhalford.com/index.php/halford-tours. 'It has been a long wait for the global Halford fan-base, and of course I'm very pleased to return with Halford IV Made Of Metal this September 2010,' comments Rob Halford. 'It is probably the most personal release of my solo career; in terms of my writing and performances. Halford IV Made Of Metal hits hard on many musical and emotional levels. I'm certain it will be recognized as one of the band's best releases, and I'm looking forward to performing the new tracks this year, and re-connecting the Halford band with its legions of Metal fans.' Halford IV - Made Of Metal is releasing on Metal God Records September 27th (UK, EU, Australia - ADA Global / Warner Music Group), October 28th (North America - Fontana / Universal Music Group) and October 13, 2010 Japan (Fontana International / Universal Music Japan). Track Listing: 1) Undisputed 2) Fire and Ice 3) Made Of Metal 4) Speed Of Sound 5) Like There's No Tomorrow 6) Till The Day I Day 7) We Own The Night 8) Heartless 9) Hell Razor 10) Thunder and Lightning 11) Twenty-Five Years 12) Matador 13) I Know We Stand A Chance 14) The Mower. For more info, please visit: RobHalford.com / MetalGodShop.com.

 

 

Monday, September 06, 2010

ASIA TO RELEASE A NEW LIVE CD / DVD SHOWCASING THE "PHOENIX" TOUR: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Asia brand new live CD / DVD Spirit Of The Night – Live in Cambridge 2009 on October 15 2010. A proper US release will follow in early 2011. This Live CD / DVD captures Asia in their original line-up, featuring John Wetton on vocals, Steve Howe on guitar, Geoffrey Downes on keyboards and Carl Palmer on drums, performing to an enthusiastic crowd. The masters come from the band's own archive and this is a show they have personally selected to be filmed and released. It's a raw and honest view of the musicians and the perspiration on their brows, as they play to a receptive audience. It is truly a compelling viewing and a "must have" for all Asia fans. The DVD shows the band playing tightly together in harmony with each other and the audience in an energetic and energizing rock concert. The filming is "fly on the wall" placing the viewer seemingly in the audience rather than in a cinema. All of the band supports this type of filming and are looking forward to a DVD which allows the fans almost to join them on stage. The set list features songs from their reunion album "Phoenix" along with a selection of the classics that all the fans would expect. The recording is a historical document of where the band was at the time and a snapshot of their musicianship, camaraderie and passion. This live CD / DVD is an irreplaceable companion to the studio album. "Spirit of the Night" shows the band at the top of their game. "Spirit of the Night" will be released in CD and DVD separate editions and in a limited edition in digipak including both items. CD track listing includes: Only Time Will Tell; Time Again; An Extraordinary Life; My Own Time; Open Your Eyes; Fanfare For The Common Man (CD exclusive); Here Comes That Feeling; Never Again; The Heat Goes On; Sole Survivor; Don't Cry; Heat Of The Moment; Midnight Sun (Bonus Track). DVD contents include: Live in Cambridge concert: Only Time Will Tell; Time Again; An Extraordinary Life; My Own Time; Open Your Eyes; Here Comes The Feeling; Never Again; The Heat Goes On; Sole Survivor; Don't Cry; Heat Of The Moment. Bonus material: In the Court of the Crimson King (featuring Ian McDonald) EPK – including John Wetton's voiceover. The DVD will be released in NTSC Region free format and shall include have Screen options 4:3 and 16:9, with stereo mix in 2.0 and 5.1. "Heat Of The Moment" and "Never Again" can exclusively be listened to in full by streaming on the Frontiers Web Radio now. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Weblinks: www.originalasia.com / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xxxx THE ORIGINAL ALIEN LINE-UP BACK TO RECORD: Alien (the original lineup) is back with a new single, Ready To Fly, to be released on the 10th of Oct (10.10.10) by Manora Records. The platinum selling Swedish AOR phenomena is back after some 22 years. An up to date production by Mårten Eriksson and Mats Lindfors, catching the classic Alien sound. Melodic rock at it's best!! "Sweden's best AOR band ever are back with original line-up playing songs from their self titled 1988 debut album...probably a 9,5 out of 10...Encore of this gig is a new song called Ready To Fly, a really good power ballad that fits well with the old material and according to me it should get some airplay since it's that good." - Planet AOR, review on ALIEN 2010 live premiere. Line-Up: Tony Borg - Jim Jidhed - Toby Tarrach - Jimmy Wandroph - Ken Sandin. WebSite: www.alientheband.com.   RIK EMMETT TO WRITE FOR GIBSON GUITARS: A few words from Rik Emmett's current newsletter update: "The Gibson Guitar folks have asked me to start up a 'blog' on their site, and that looks like it'll roll out as soon as they get their site revisions finished and give the initiative a bit of promo. I can hear what you're thinking - oh boy, yet another digital outlet where Emmett can spout off. After taking a semester off to accommodate the extensive trio touring in the winter & spring, I'm headed back into Humber College to teach three classes again on Tuesdays: Music Business, Songwriting, and Directed Studies [essentially consulting & mentoring graduate-year recording projects]. I'll admit I missed the place [although I would never miss grading & marking ... ]. I just had lunch with Mike Shotton, and have vowed for the umpteenth time to get back into the studio with him to finish up Marco's Secret Songbook [the never-ending project]. After I finish this missive to you good folks, we are supposed to coordinate our digital daybooks for mutual availabilities. I'm through with optimism on market delivery of this thing: don't expect it before 2015. [Kidding ... maybe early in the New Year?] 'EGO IS MY MIDDLE NAME' SAYS GENE SIMMONS: As always, another colorful interview with Gene Simmons can be found at: www.startribune.com/entertainment/music/102084838.html?page=1&c=y. A short extract reads: Q What did you learn from Donald Trump when you were on "Celebrity Apprentice"? Gene: Donald learned a few things from me, if you don't mind me saying so. How's that for arrogance? That's my middle name, by the way. [He learned] How to have a better hair style. [Simmons laughs.] If you can't have fun doing this, it's not worth it. We've known each other a long time. He's a solid guy. Q I voted for Kiss No.1 on my Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ballot last fall. How did it feel to finally get nominated, after so many years of eligibility -- and then not get inducted? Gene: It's backroom politics. Honestly, we don't loose sleep over this. It's not the most important thing in our lives. It used to mean something. I don't think it means anything near that much. Once you put Madonna and rap stars in it, it ain't rock 'n' roll. It does a disservice to rap and to disco and other forms of music that have very little to do with guitars and drums. Q Once you and Paul Stanley decide to retire many years down the road, do you envision Kiss continuing with other performers wearing your outfits and makeup? Gene: Why not? Of course. Anything's possible. No rules. It's supposed to be rock 'n' roll, after all. ELO'S MIKE EDWARDS DIES: A FORMER member of the band Electric Light Orchestra, was killed when a nearly 318kg bale of hay rolled down a hill, flew out of a field and smashed into his van as he drove by. London's Daily Telegraph reported Mike Edwards, 62, died instantly in the freak accident Friday on a highway in Devon, England. He was a founding member of ELO and played cello with the band from 1972-75. He also was known for his bizarre costumes and for a cello solo piece in which his instrument "exploded". Read more: www.news.com.au/entertainment/music/elo-star-mike-edwards-dies-in-freak-hay-bale-accident. R.I.P. Mike. THE RETURN OF JIMMY CRESPO: Jimmy Crespo may be best known as the guitarist who replaced Joe Perry in Aerosmith from 1979-1984. Crespo appeared on the Night in the Ruts album and co-wrote the majority of songs on 1982's Rock in a Hard Place, performing almost all the guitar duties on the album. After years of playing with artists including Rod Stewart, Stevie Nicks, Billy Squier, Dee Snider & Lita Ford, Jimmy is ready to return to center stage with his brand new band The Jimmy Crespo Project. Joined by a group of noted musicians, JCP is preparing to play a 90 minute show feat classic rock hits and Crespo era Aerosmith songs you can only hear him play live. 2012 will mark the 30 year anniversary of the release of "Rock In a Hard Place" and for the next two years Jimmy Crespo will let the music do the talkin' playing live shows and releasing an album of original material. For more visit The Official Jimmy Crespo band Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/The-Jimmy-Crespo-Project/155822504429019?ref=mf or www.jimmycrespo.com. KAMELOT SINGER FALLS ILL, NORTH AMERICAN TOUR TO GO ON: The following statement was made by the band: "Hello Kamelot Nation, The band and crew are all here in Tampa rehearsing for the tour – "Visas have been cleared and the guys are in good spirits and ready to party with all of you. However, during rehearsals, Roy Khan became severely ill. Due to this, as yet undiagnosed, illness, Roy reluctantly has been forced to head back home to Norway. He is currently under his physician's care, but unfortunately these circumstances will prevent him from joining us on the North American concert tour. Of course, we want Roy to take care of his health as priority one for now and for the future. After much consideration on how to proceed, all of us in Kamelot feel strongly about keeping our commitment to our fans, promoters, and support bands on this tour! We are all ready and excited about playing these shows, we have flown in people from around the world to be apart of it and it has been in the works over a year! Therefore, we are working diligently with a fantastic singer willing to step in at the eleventh hour in order to make this tour a reality – our good friend Michael from Circus Maximus (Norway) has agreed to fill in for Roy! And we are excited to announce a special guest: Swedish vocalist Elize Ryd from Amaranthe will be joining the band on the North American Tour. She will also be part of the VIP meet and greet! Elize toured with us on our Summer Pandemonium Tour and also the European tour earlier this Spring. Also as a special thank you to our North American fans, our friends at ESP guitars have donated a beautiful ESP guitar which will be signed by Thomas Youngblood and given away at the end of our North American tour – this contest is open only to North American tour concert goers. Fans can enter for a chance to win this exclusive item by signing up in the designated area at each show! More surprises are in store at many shows including special guest appearances and more." Roy especially would like to add: "I am terribly sorry that I cannot do this upcoming tour in North-America this fall. We have our most fantastic album ever coming out in September, and the timing could have been better I guess. The band has my full and unconditional blessing to go out there and kick ass regardless, and I feel we have found a good replacement in Michael. He is a very good singer and long time friend. Be good to him! Hope to see you soon!" All the best. Michael states: "Roy and I go way back, so when he called and asked me to help him and the rest of Kamelot to do their long planned USA tour, I told him, 'Sure bro, I am there for you. It will be big shoes to fill , but in his honor I will do my best to give the Kamelot fans a show they have long awaited. So grab your earplugs and come join the party!" We cannot thank you enough for your tremendous support over the years, and look forward to being out to meet more of you on the road! Please join us in wishing Roy a speedy recovery, and swift return to us! Kamelot will release Poetry For The Poisoned on September 10th in Europe. September 14th, 2010 in North America. WebLink: www.poetryforthepoisoned.com / www.kamelot.com/site/news/kamelot-singer-falls-ill-north-american-tour-to-go-on/.

 

 

Friday, September 03, 2010

FIREWORKS #41 DIGITAL EDITION - OUT NOW: The latest 96 page, full colour issue of Fireworks Magazine is now out and available for DIGITAL DOWNLOAD (PDF now in 2 formats - double page layout and single page layout for mobile devices). Issue #41 has 28 interviews including features with Slash, Joe Elliot, Glenn Hughes, Thin Lizzy, Accept, Heart, Peter Frampton, Enuff Z'Nuff, Stan Bush, Grand Illusion, Shining Line, Third Eye Blind, RPWL, Venice, Little Caeser, John Norum, MASS, Angeline, Sister Sin, Haken, Taz Taylor, 8 Point Rose, Xoch, Furyon, Tony Harnell and much more! Also cram-packed with CD, DVD and live reviews. Anybody buying an issue of the magazine will find a code which allows them to download an extra 18 page PDF of content, including articles on bands such as H.e.a.t, and Jettblack, along with a listening report on the launch of Iron Maiden's new 'Final Frontier' album! All this for £3.50.   Free CD Track Listing (Offered in MP3 Format with magazine purchase): 1. Terry Brock – Jessie's Gone 2. 8 Point Rose – Resolve 3. Bronz – Can't Live Without Your Love 4. First Signal – When You Believe 5. Xoch – Winter in Hollywood 6. Salute – Higher 7. Wheels of Fire – You're So Cool 8. China – She's So Hot 9. Sister Sin – 24/7 10. Silent Victory – Ain't No Shame in Crying 11. Angeline – Pray! 12. Stan Bush – Never Hold Back 13. Broken Melody – Return Denied 14. Final Gravity – Let Go (Radio Edit) 15. Nil Durden – Find a Way 16. Pictorial Wand – The Ghosts Start Dancing 17. First Child – What Are We Fighting For 18. Taz Taylor Band – Viper.   LION MUSIC ARTIST RELEASE UPDATE: Seventh Wonder and Lion Music are pleased to announce the release of the band's debut video for the track 'Alley Cat' taken from the bands forthcoming fourth studio album entitled The Great Escape, set for release in late 2010. The video recorded, edited and produced by Johan Larsson is the perfect backdrop for the mood of the new song which sees the band deliver their trademark brand of progressive metal. Seventh Wonder cross the Atlantic for the first time to play the prestigious ProgPower USA festival along side of Kamelot and Hammerfall in Atland September 10th. Seventh Wonder will also perform a special second show on Saturday for Gold Badge holders. www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sRDa-xTfwg. The album The Great Escape is in the final stages of production and in spite of some delays is scheduled for a release later this year on Lion Music. The tracklist will be as follows: 1. Wiseman - [5:42] 2. Alley Cat - [6:06] 3. The Angelmaker - [8:29] 4. King of Whitewater - [7:20] 5. Long way home - [4:26] 6. Move on Through - [5:04] 7. The Great Escape - [30:14]. The band have also announced drummer Johnny Sandin will be leaving the band and have released the following announcements. Below is a message from Johnny in connection to him announcing his departure from the band. Please note that this will have no effect on already scheduled gigs, in which Johnny is 100% devoted to participating. "Hello fans and friends!! After more than 10 years of touring, recording, tons of laughter and a few tears I have decided to leave Seventh Wonder and take a break from music indefinitely. The last few years have been hectic and filled with really cool events. The Italy-tour which was put together by the band's best friends Max, Romano and Manuel. The Sweden Rock gig is also one of the memories I will never let go of. Not to mention the upcoming ProgPower USA-gig which is a dream for all of us. I view the release of the fourth SW album and the gigs to follow as a really good finish for me in the band!! Now I will get a chance to say goodbye to fans and friends when we are out playing. It is damned hard (although mostly fun) to put your entire soul into Seventh Wonder and at the same time work full time and also try to be a good father of four (soon five) and an equally good fiancé. It may sound selfish but I am doing this entirely for me. The more time I devote to the band, the more I loose time with my family. It is not worth that effort any more. I must make different prioritizations right now but at the same time nothing is ever really etched in stone. Who knows, in five years time I may have the drive once more. We will see what happens. I have had the honor of playing with the finest musicians I have ever met. They have not only been there for me as band members but also as my best friends and I know that they will always be there for me. Thank you to fans, friends and the band for 10 wonderful years." Johnny Sandin. The band's response: "We are all very saddened by Johnny's decision. We have lived with Johnny in one of the most important aspects of our lives for many years, some of us for over 10 years. At the same time we feel the utmost respect for Johnny's decision which we believe to be a correct one for him. Since the first trembling steps of the entity that came to be Seventh Wonder, Johnny has been an integral part of the sound that is Seventh Wonder. Johnny co-wrote a lot of the earlier material and his rhythmic patterns, thunderous fills and poly-rhythmic excursions that he contributes to the music have challenged fans as well as his band members throughout this incredible journey. Johnny is the craziest man alive and has given many thousand laughs and hilarious moments to everyone around him. As you can understand it is very hard for us to think of Seventh Wonder without Johnny, but at the same time we are all, including Johnny, fully committed to carry on and keep doing what we have come to love and hold so dear over the years. This certainly ends one chapter in the Seventh Wonder book of history, let us together turn the page and see what the future holds as we let Johnny go towards other challenges. We love you Johnny and we wouldn't have become who we are with out you! This does not affect already booked gigs. All scheduled gigs will be performed with Johnny at the helm, and 100% devoted to the task!" Seventh Wonder is looking for a new drummer - We envision that any applicant is a drummer with a well enough developed technical proficiency to be able to play through just about any song from our back catalogue. This should also work in a live setting with a metronome in a reasonably relaxed and steady manner. You who apply for the position should have a passion for the music we create and the genre in which we are active. The ability and will to sing back-up vocals during live sets is a plus. The band is active in Stockholm and that is also where the studio is, -a fact to be considered by all applicants. Previous live show experience is a plus, a drum set of your own is a must. More info via: drummer@seventhwonder.nu.   Mindsplit - Charmed Human Art Of Significance / MindSplit are a new band yet one with years of experience behind its individual members. With a style planted somewhere between straight metal, progressive metal and classic rock the band deliver a truly epic tale with their debut album "Charmed Human Art Of Significance" which is set for release on September 17 on Lion Music. Featuring veterans of the Scandinavian metal scene in guitarist Matthias Holm and vocalist H.B. Anderson, the pair began writing and recording together again in their spare time c.2003 once again after the duo had worked together in the late 80's with "The 'n' Sin". When the music was taking shape bassist Conny Payne (Madison) joined along with highly respect sessions musicians - drummer Jon Skäre and keyboardist Jonas Lidström. This new collaboration turned into a whole different ballgame though when H.B. found his great old, old grandfather Xerxes Anderson's Artificial Universe (a.k.a. Prof. Xandau 1807 ~ 1851) notes from his therapy sessions. Prof. Xandau was a much respected therapist during the first half of 19th century and had his sessions all over the world based in both Europe and the U.S. These notes are the solid ground to this project and are used to tell a true story about psychological thoughts and human behaviours. H.B. Anderson comments, "The memory notes declare what's going on in the human mind in different situations making for compelling listening, although as there are no names involved so it's totally anonymous. Its fantastic literature and breathtaking reading, the human brain is very complex and odd. You can say it sure lives its own life". This inspired lyrical setting led to the music of what would become "C.H.A.O.S" taking on its own personality. This story line is set to a musically accomplished and captivating release which will draw the listener in from the first listen. Musically the album is big, powerful, dark yet with subtle light and a very impressive aura with a powerful production to suit the mood. This has been further extended by the promotional video for the song "NME – Myself and I" which has received positive reactions from YouTube viewers worldwide. With "Charmed Human Art Of Significance" MindSplit has produced a debut album of exceptionally high quality and one that will appeal to a wide range of metal lovers and those with an appetite for enthralling concept stories. Track Listing: 01. Prologue - The Awakening. 02. Silhouettes. 03. The Traveller. 04. Presence Of Time. 05. ...elsewhere? 06. Inside The Heart Of Silence. 07. Battle Of The Mind. 08. Visual Minds - The Eternal Flame. 09. NMe - Myself & I. 10. Through The Eyes Of A Child. 11. A Room With Thousand Doors. 12. A Purpose Of Circumstance. 13. Abandoned Echoes. 14. Epilogue - The Imaginary End. Musicians: H.B. Anderson – Vocals, Mathias Holm – Guitars, Conny Payne – Bass, Jon Skare – Drums, Jonas Lidstrom - Keyboards. Guest Musicians: Berger – Saxophone, Melody Payne - Voice, Nordanstigs Manskar - Male Choir Mikael Rosengren - Keyboards. WebLinks: www.mindsplit.se / www.myspace.com/mindsplitse / www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDNHdVznGpU.   Anthriel - The Pathway - With their spectacular debut "The Pathway", Finnish progressive metal outfit Anthriel have produced an album which has all the potential to be hailed a classic and is guaranteed to fascinate metal fans worldwide. Formed in 2004 by guitarist Timo Niemistö, keyboardist Antti Hakulinen and drummer Jari Kuokkanen the band went through a couple of line up variations before finding bassist Klaus Wirzenius and ultimately released a 3 track e.p. "Visions of Inner Light and Deeper Thoughts" in 2007 which won considerable praise on the underground metal circuit. Yet it was until the band found powerhouse vocalist Simo Silvan in 2008 that the bands sound became fully realised. Anthriel - the Archangel of balance and harmony is the perfect name for the bands music. With a sound driven by big guitar riffs, deft keyboard touches, a rock solid articulate rhythm section and a healthy dose of expressive vocals high in melody built into intricate yet digestible arrangements this is metal that is easily appreciated on first listen – yet where further plays reveal numerous hidden depths that will keep the listener coming back for more. The quality of material would not be best represented with anything less than a superb production and this is exactly what the "The Pathway" serves up being an impressive self production by Timo Niemistö and mix by Jussi Kulomaa at MSTR Studios. On the bands sound Simo Silvan comments, "We don't want to go extremity with any style of music. There is a time for a head banging and time for musical landscaping. We try to keep our music as versatile we can. "The Pathway" is a mixture of various different kind of music styles like heavy, pop, acoustic, orchestral and instrumental and symphonic metal. The music and lyrics were written hand in hand with the album theme". Track Listing: 01. Devil's Lullaby. 02. Mirror Games. 03. Guardian. 04. Repression. 05. Haven of Grace. 06. Dark Divided Minds. 07. The Deliverance. 08. Controversial Euphoria. 09. Light Divine. 10. Scent of Dawn. 11. Promised Land. 12. Chains of the Past. Musicians: Simo Silvan – Vocals. Timo Niemista - Guitars/backing vocals. Antti Hakulinen – Keyboards. Klaus Wirzenius – Bass. Jari Kuokkanen – Drums. WebLinks: www.anthriel.com / www.myspace.com/anthrielmusic.   7TH HEAVEN RELEASES "JUKEBOX": Jukebox is a MASSIVE 700 all-original song box-set of songs we have written, recorded and/or played in the 25 years 7th heaven has been around. This box set is a great musical journey thru different styles of music. We do not think there has been another band to date that has released this many originals at one time. This could break a world record! Jukebox has a bunch of guest singers as well as featuring your favorite members. All songs have been written by at least one member of 7th heaven in the 25 year history. Some songs are brand new, some are older but had never been released and there is even a couple versions of songs, as well as early demos. The CD Box-set is available to order on www.7thheavenband.com. Direct Link to Page: www.7thheavenband.com/pages/store/jukebox.html. This product comes in a software box of 15 CD's and 1 Demo Data DVD of MP3's of early recordings and b-sides never released before. The price of this product is $50 with $10 for shipping Worldwide. This product will be available in 5 formats; · 1 - A box set of 15 traditional CD's. The box set contains a bonus disk of the original MP3's of demos as they were written and recorded over the last 25 years. This bonus data disk is only available in the full CD box-set. (Available now) · 2 - A data DVD with all the songs as MP3's. (Coming Soon) · 3 - A flash drive with all the songs as MP3's. (Coming Soon) · 4 - The internet: i-Tunes, Amazon, NTD Records store and 7thheavenband.com. (Coming Soon) · 5 - A limited edition Apple iPod with the entire catalog on it. (Coming Soon) "Look for a complete listing of all songs on our website with full production notes and credits, as well as writing credits, who is performing on each track, all the lyrics to every song. This section of the website will be done this fall. Thanks for all your continued support. We love playing and as long as you keep coming out to see us play, we'll continue to be there." - Richard Hofherr. LOST ANGELS ANNOUNCE 1ST SHOW IN MEXICO: Lost Angels, the band featuring singer John Corabi (Mötley Crüe,Ratt), guitarist Eric Dover (Slash's Snakepit, Sextus, Alice Cooper), bassist Muddy Stardust (L.A. Guns, Gilby Clarke) and drummer Troy Patrick Farrell (White Lion, Pretty Boy Floyd), have scheduled the following show in Mexico: Oct. 09 - Madeiras- Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico. Last September, Lost Angels performed its inaugural shows in India along with visiting a hospital for children with cleft lip and palate, donating proceeds of their shows to help aid in surgeries and research. They also performed their first shows in the USA with many shows in the Midwest anchored by the world famous Milwaukee Summerfest this past summer. For more information, visit www.lostangelslive.com. EDEN'S CURSE ISSUE TRINITY UPDATE: Eden's Curse have updated their website with the following news: "Trinity delayed until Spring 2011! Greeting Kids and Rock 'N' Rollers! It's been a while since we updated everyone on the goings on at Curse Towers, especially in regards to our new studio album Trinity. As many of you will have read, we planned to release Trinity on 15th October, however the band took the decision upon themselves to push the album out to Spring 2011, mainly due to scheduling issues with various parties involved in the making of the record. It was felt that we were beginning to "rush" things a little to meet unrealistic deadlines and that was simply not something we were prepared to do. Thankfully our record labels understood this and agreed with us that we should take the time we need to get Trinity 100% right and 100% the way the fans demand it - The whole Curse, nothing but the Curse, so help me God! We then decided to take a little time off - as making albums can be really stressful - and spent some well deserved time with our families and recharged the batteries. However, we didn't realise that whilst we were sunning our behinds and sipping pinacoladas the conspiracy theorists were having a field day - Mike was leaving (again), Paul was becoming a Priest and Pete had turned into a sex mad alcoholic window cleaner! All very entertaining I may add, but if it ain't on HERE, then it ain't worth talking about! Production activities have recommenced, and the band will be finishing up Trinity over the next few months. There is much left to do, but we'll bring you news on a new release date, as and when we have it. Trust us, there is MUCH excitement to come for Curse fans, so keep your eyes peeled right here. Until then, as always ..." HARRY HESS GUESTS ON ALL HAIL HAIR FRIDAY NIGHT!: This Friday night from 8-9 PM EST, All Hail Hair will welcome Harry Hess, the former Harem Scarem and current First Signal lead vocalist to the show. Hosted by Bob Carroll and Frankie C., the guys will speak to Hess about rocking through the 80s with bands like Blind Vengeance, his career with Harem Scarem and his new project First Signal. To talk with Harry Hess, dial (347) 202-0832. First Signal is the newest endeavor undertaken by Harry Hess with contributions from former Harem Scarem band mate Darren Smith. Through Frontiers Records, First Signal has released a strong self titled debut album which includes the first single release This City. Songs from the latest release will be played on Friday nights show. All Hail Hair is broadcast live every Friday night from 8-9 PM EST on the Fightin Words Radio Network page on blogtalkradio.com, and is the networks highest rated show. The show will also be available as an archive on the Fightin Words Radio Network main page. To take part in the show, dial (347) 202-0832. To hear the show, click here. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: CD Showcase has been updated with the following new albums to preview: Two Fires, Issa & Kiske/Somerville (all Frontiers Records, September 24 release). Check them out now. REVIEWS UPDATED: Reviews have been updated with verdicts on the following albums: Bret Michaels, Eden, Meat Loaf, Joey Summer, Wheels Of Fire, Angeline, Sedona and State Cows. Read The Reviews. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new AOR-friendly titles: Jimmy Harnen - Unreleased Tracks (4 Tracks) Stephan Kaemmerer - Unreleased (6 Tracks) The Machine - The Machine (Indie EP Release) Darin Scheff - Demos (10 Tracks) Dave Pickell - Songwriting Demos (9 Tracks) David Roberts - Demo (2 Tracks) Join MR-X Now

 

 

Thursday, September 02, 2010

STRANGEWAYS TO RELEASE A NEW ALBUM WITH TERRY BROCK ON VOCALS: The news of Strangeways reunion with American singer Terry Brock leaked when the announcement of Firefest 2010 festival line-up was launched with the inclusion of the band in the "Native Sons"/"Walk in the Fire" line-up on the bill. This came as a big surprise to many, since probably very few people would have hoped to see Brock crossing the ocean again and even less could think of a brand new Strangeways recording with the singer together with guitarist Ian J. Stewart, new bassist Warren Jolly, drummer Jim Drummond and keyboard player Dave "Munch" Moore. Still the Strangeways reunion is now reality and the newly recorded studio album "Perfect World" will be released on Frontiers Records on October 15 in Europe and October 26 in the US. Turning back the clock in 1986, Strangeways released their self titled debut for Bonaire/Arista Records. "Strangeways" received rave reviews, particularly from the british press which saw the potential for the band to break on to the US market. By the time the album hit the shops, original singer Tony Liddell had already been replaced by Brock who was persuaded to join the band by the album's producer Kevin Elson (Journey, Europe etc.). Strangeways toured intensely supporting Europe, Bryan Adams and Meat Loaf but it was the following year's "Native Sons" album that chiselled in stone the name of the band, who produced a full-blown melodic rock masterpiece, hailed by Kerrang! magazine as "the greatest and most preciously perfect AOR album of all time". In 1989, even if Native Sons didn't sell as well as the critical acclaim gathered, Strangeways recorded a third album titled Walk In The Fire. The band wanted to have a more personal approach, less leaning to the Journey sound of the previous record. The result was truly superb, a big step further compared to "Native Sons". Still today songs as "Love Lies Dying", "Every Time You Cry" or "Where Are They Now" are considered by the fans some of the most beautiful songs ever in british AOR style. Strangeways were finally starting to see rewards from touring, particularly in Germany but after Brock flew to the US to secretly audition with Deep Purple to replace Ian Gillan, he never returned to the UK and left the band. Three more very different Strangeways albums followed with Ian Stewart at the microphone: "And The Horse" (1995), "Any Day Now" (1997) and "Gravitational Pull" (2000). All of them saw Strangeways exploring a more atmospheric and rootsy style which had nothing to do with the previous three albums. Terry Brock in the meanwhile started a solo career which produced two acclaimed releases ("Back to Eden" and the very recent "Diamond Blue") and collaborated with The Sign, Seventh Key and Giant. "There was no real plan for Terry and I to work together again, it just kinda happened" says Ian Stewart. "With the Firefest gig offer and Frontiers showing interest in another Strangeways album it all just seemed to fall together naturally. The relationship with Terry is probably better than it's ever been, which I think is down to the fact that we're both older and dare I say wiser". "Perfect World" takes from where "Walk In the Fire" left off, with the band finding an even more mature musical identity, an amazing sense of spacious melodies and of course the magic voice of Terry Brock which connects the music with the classic Melodic Rock sound of "Native Sons" and "Walk in the Fire". "I honestly couldn't really describe the "new" sound as such, it's just honest melodic heart and soul rock music, good tunes played with attitude and feeling" concludes Ian Stewart. Don't miss their performance at Firefest 2010 hoping it will be the first of a long streak of dates. "Perfect World" final tracklisting includes: Perfect World; Borderlines; Movin' On; Time; Cracking Up Baby; Liberty; One More Day; Bushfire; Too Far Gone; Can't Let You Go; Say What You Want. The songs "Perfect World" and "Borderlines" can exclusively be listened to in full by streaming on the Frontiers Web Radio now. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Weblinks: www.facebook.com/pages/Strangeways-Official-fan-page/264061032678 / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx ALTER BRIDGE JOIN FORCES WITH ROADRUNNER RECORDS: Roadrunner Records are delighted to welcome American rock band Alter Bridge to the family.  The band will be represented by Roadrunner worldwide, with the exception of North America (an announcement regarding North America will be released in the near future). Since they formed in 2004, Alter Bridge have built a loyal fan-base through relentless touring and their stellar live performances, selling more than a million albums and in the process becoming one of the most respected rock bands in the world. Grammy-winning songwriter/guitarist Mark Tremonti comments, "There is a real sense of excitement in the Alter Bridge camp to be able to partner-up with Roadrunner. With their proven track record worldwide and the hard work we have put in touring internationally, it seems like the perfect combination." Wally van Middendorp, Roadrunner's Snr VP International, states, "I am extremely pleased that we have added Alter Bridge to our international artist roster and I am confident the band will reach the next level with their upcoming record." Alter Bridge's first release with Roadrunner will be their forthcoming third studio album, succinctly titled AB III. Set for release on October 8 with Michael "Elvis" Baskette producing, the band – completed by  vocalist/guitarist/songwriter Myles Kennedy (who also fronts Slash's touring band), bassist Brian Marshall, and drummer Scott Phillips - recently unveiled the song titles on their home website at www.alterbridge.com and also on their Myspace page at www.myspace.com/alterbridge. The full track listing is set to be:  1. Slip To The Void 2. Isolation 3. Ghost Of Days Gone By 4. All Hope Is Gone 5. Still Remains 6. Make It Right 7. Wonderful Life 8. I Know It Hurts 9. Show Me A Sign 10. Fallout 11. Breathe Again 12. Coeur D'Alene 13. Life Must Go On 14. Words Darker Than Their Wings. BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION PRE-ORDER AND PRE-VIEW: Black Country Communion's debut album, released on Monday 20th September, recently peaked at No. 2 in the Amazon UK pre-order chart, and has remained in the Top 10 of both the Amazon UK and Play.com pre-order album charts for the past 5 weeks. BCC is comprised of Glenn Hughes (vocals, bass), Joe Bonamassa (guitar, vocals), Jason Bonham (drums) and Derek Sherinian (keyboards). The album is produced and mixed by Kevin Shirley (Rush, Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, Black Crowes). At 7pm on Saturday 4th September, the UK's leading classic rock radio station PLANET ROCK will air an exclusive hour-long documentary interview with Black Country Communion. The documentary will feature Planet Rock speaking to the BCC members about the band's formation and future. The one hour radio special will also be repeated on Thursday 9th September at 11pm. Presented by DJ Nicky Horne, the behind-the-scenes documentary includes exclusive interviews with Glenn Hughes, Joe Bonamassa and Jason Bonham, plus a selection of music from their highly anticipated debut album. Also featured in the one hour special will be the song "One Last Soul", which has fast become one of the station's most requested tracks. Tune into Planet Rock this Saturday to listen to the documentary online: www.planetrock.co.uk/Article.asp?id=1936427&spid=.

 

 

Wednesday, September 01, 2010

LINE-UP CHANGE AT GERMANY'S H.E.A.T FESTIVAL: The H.E.A.T Festival in Germany, which takes place in Reichenbach/Fils (near Stuttgart) at 16th & 17th of October 2010, are sorry to say that Swedish Glam Rockers Babylon Bombs and German Melodic Rockers Shylock had to cancel their appearance at the festival due several band problems. The festival is proud to announce Axxis, one of the most popular German Heavy Rock Bands, as a new headliner on Sunday,17. October. They promise a set full of band classics. Ohrenfeindt, which was scheduled as a headliner for this day, are now co-headlining, but playing a full set. Replacement for Shylock will be Italy's premier Hard rock band Markonee. The festival Line-up: Saturday, 16th October: Wig Wam, H.E.A.T (first show in Germany with their new singer Erik Grönwall), Soul Doctor, Bad Habit, Bangalore Choir, Bai Bang, Markonee. Sunday, 17th October: Axxis, Ohrenfeindt, Hartmann, Subway, Subsignal, Wicked Temptation, Redlight Ballerina. More information and tickets: www.heat-festival.de. SAMMY HAGAR UPDATES BILLBOARD ON CHICKENFOOT STATUS: From Billboard.com / "Chickenfoot is four songs and "seven pieces of new music" into its second album, according to frontman Sammy Hagar. But he acknowledges there's some concern about keeping that not-so-old gang of theirs together. The challenge is drummer Chad Smith and his regular gig with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who are currently writing for the follow-up to 2006's "Stadium Arcadium." "Once they start recording, Chad's never going to be able to get a break," Hagar tells Billboard.com. "If he does, he'll get a couple weeks here, a couple days there, which is not really enough to devote to Chickenfoot. And when they're done with [the album] they're gonna go on the road for a year and a half. So we either have to get a new drummer or wait for Chad...which is unfair to Chickenfoot. It's too good a band." But Hagar says he, Smith and rest of Chickenfoot -- guitarist Joe Satriani and founding Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony -- are not frustrated by the situation. "We care, but at the same time [Chickenfoot] is not mandatory," Hagar explains. "It's not like we feel like, 'Hey, this is our only chance in life.' Everyone's already been there, done that. Chickenfoot is not our bread and butter, and I think that's really important." Chickenfoot will play together again on Sept. 10 in Indio, Calif., and Sept. 11 in Stateline, Nev. Hagar says the group had plans to hit the studio after that but things are "kind of up in the air." However, the frontman is stoked by the material he and Satriani are writing, including the four songs Chickenfoot has already worked on as a quartet. "We probably have a record ready to go," Hagar reports. "It's just waiting for when we can all get together to do it" -- a process also complicated by the Oct. 5 release of Satriani's next album, "Black Swans and Wormhole Wizards," and a three-plus month world tour that starts Oct. 16 in Ireland and comes to North America in December. Meanwhile, Hagar and his band the Wabos are currently supporting Aerosmith. He has no recording plans of his own at the moment but is working on an autobiography, "Red," with San Francisco music journalist Joel Selvin that he promises will be "really revealing, right down to just about everything you'd want to know" -- including his tenures in Montrose and Van Halen. "I figure there's only one shot at an autobiography, and you've got to tell the story, as much as it may be painful," says Hagar, who has made two previous attempts at his memoirs. "I really believe there's a lot of people out there that really have no idea where I came from and who I really am. I've never been a press junkie, and I think that's a good thing. So I think the book is going to blow people's minds." ArticleLink: www.billboard.com/news/sammy-hagar-on-sharing-chickenfoot-drummer-1004111903.story. AXL ROSE - GENIUS OR COMPLETE TOOL?: Dear old Axl Rose has been busy making more good friends while in the UK. Here's just a few reports... Late arrivals, long-running sets and overall lackluster performances earned Guns N' Roses collective jeers as the rock group headlined the U.K.'s Reading and Leeds festivals this weekend (Aug. 27-29). According to NME, frontman Axl Rose declared "war" on Leeds organizers after claiming that the band's set was cut short on Sunday, despite the fact that it arrived one half hour late to its scheduled slot at the fest. "We would like to play a few more songs for you tonight," said Rose, who claimed he was told the group could play until midnight but was forced to end the set at 11:20 PM. "But someone's telling us that the show's over. This war ain't over yet." Festival organizer Melvin Benn told NME that the band was never given the OK to play until midnight. Sunday's set followed an equally controversial show at the Reading festival on Friday (Aug. 27), in which Guns N' Roses arrived an hour late and endured endless boos from the crowd. The set was shut down at the original noise curfew, but Rose and co. tried to play "Paradise City" as an encore without amplification. Rose posted a short apology for the Reading performance on his Twitter account yesterday (Aug. 29), writing that "the fans deserve an apology from those responsible for the nonsense." Earlier today, the singer chalked up the time disputes to "miscommunication" beyond the band's control. "We hope the fans feel they got at least what they could from us under the circumstances," Rose wrote. ArticleLink: www.billboard.com/events/axl-roses-fumes-after-guns-n-roses-is-cut. "Axl Rose should rename his band Guns N' Snoozes after it was revealed he was busy napping when due on stage at both Reading and Leeds Festivals. Furious Sweet Child O' Mine singer Axl Rose sacked his entire tour crew after Guns n' Roses Reading slot over-ran on Friday and landed him a whopping fine. In fact, he had been kipping backstage in his dressing room after arriving on site at 6pm. With his team under strict orders not to disturb him, it meant he eventually hit the stage an hour late. And disaster hit again on Sunday in Leeds when the plug was pulled early for a second time. A source told me: "Axl has a very firm rule that he is not to be woken up whenever he is asleep. That proved costly at Reading." Determined to finish Paradise City, the 48-year-old sang through a megaphone after his mic was turned off. Then offstage he kicked off. My source continued: "Axl was furious. He refused to take responsibility and blamed his team so he sacked them. Then he realised it was too late to fly in anyone else from America so he had to rehire them for Leeds." But things went wrong again up north. Axl ranted on stage at 11.15pm: "We were guaranteed to play till 11.58 but they are telling us to end our set. "The festival promoters just want to f*** you. We're 35 miles from Leeds in a field in the middle of nowhere, who cares?" Festival boss Melvin Benn denied any extra time had been agreed. I think Axl needs to take a chill pill instead of a sleeping tablet on his flight back to the States. ArticleLink: www.dailystar.co.uk/playlist/view/151594/Axl-Rose-sacks-crew-after-nap-disaster And from NME - Axl - Asshole or Hero? (Guess which one is winning...) - www.nme.com/blog/index.php. ROBERT PLANT TURNING HIS BACK ON ROCK?: Brian Chilson, AP Photo / "Robert Plant has revealed that he is no longer a fan of heavy rock music, and that he hopes to continue with the world music, country and blues direction that has characterised his solo career thus far. Speaking to the Independent, the former Led Zeppelin singer described going to a concert by Them Crooked Vultures, who of course feature his former band mate, John Paul Jones. Plant admitted that his ears "bled for two days" due to the volume and added, "I feel so far away from heavy rock now. It's quite odd, how mine and John's paths seem to have crossed over -- we've sort of gone into each others' worlds a bit," referring to how in the '70s Zeppelin heyday, it was Jones who held the stronger interest in alternative musical styles. Plant's new album 'Band of Joy' is released on Sept. 13, his first solo record since 2005's 'Mighty Rearranger,' though in 2007 he released 'Raising Sand' with bluegrass queen Alison Krauss. He added that he will continue to pursue his own interests, rather than revisit his rock heritage. "For me, it's no longer to do with vanity, ego and visible success," he said. "It's just about getting down into the earth of music. I spent three or four years never playing a Zeppelin song from 1981 onwards, because I didn't want to lean on Zeppelin. I've gone from being in that huge band to picking up the pieces of my own gift." ArticleLink: www.spinner.ca/2010/08/31/robert-plant-ignoring-rock. THE POOR MANAGE TO DELIVER ROUND TWO: The Poor teamed up with Riot Entertainment in 2009 to unleash a barrage of material which was an album titled "Round 1" which saw the band do a string of sell out shows including a set at the Gold Coast Big Day Out 2010 where many believe it was a lesson to a lot of current new acts on how its done. October 2010 will see the release of the follow up album titled Round 2 where you can be assured if you're a fan of no bullshit straight up rock n roll. WebLink: www.thepoor.com.au.   STOCKHOLM ROCK OUT FESTIVAL UPDATE: Stockholm RockOut news: "Zinny Zan (Easy Action, Shotgun Messiah) will do his LAST appearance on September 10. Together with Chris Laney he will Rock Out some classics from his career. Fatal Smile has found their new drummer which will be revealed during their show on September 11. Paul Shortino (Rough Cutt, Quiet Riot, King Kobra) will fill in for Jack Russell on September 11 with Great white. This is a one time only show for Europe, this will also be Paul Shortino´s first show ever in Scandinavia." Running order and further details at: www.sthlmrockout.com / 26 bands - 2 stages - 2 days - Indoors. MELODIC BRIEFS: Please help support Peter Criss in the battle against breast cancer: kissfaq.com/forum09/viewtopic.php?t=52317. After releasing their 4th album "Time To Be King" and entering the charts all over Europe, Masterplan just released the official video clip of the title track: www.metal-hammer.de. Steevi Jaimz plays two UK shows this month: Rock Out Rig Special -Rock City- Nottingham Saturday September 4th / The Barfly -Camden -London Sunday September 12th. www.steevijaimz.com. John Mellencamp Laments the Demise of Rock 'N' Roll: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/john-mellencamp-0819/. WHOLE LOTTA LOVE TRIBUTE DUE OUT: SplitScreen Entertainment is pleased to announce the official release event for its new tribute album, "Whole Lotta Love: An All-Star Salute To Fat Chicks." Though the album itself becomes available today, it will also serve as the basis for a weekend-long musical celebration on October 1st - 3rd, 2010. The release will be held in conjunction with the semi-annual NJ BBW Bash sponsored by Plush Productions. For the occasion, the organizers will adopt "Whole Lotta Love" as the theme of the event, showcasing its music and artists throughout their weekend programming. Highlights will include live music performances, a meet & greet autograph session with tribute album players and the Saturday evening semi-formal dance (for which attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite rock icons). Fans in attendance will have opportunities to win "Whole Lotta Love" albums, posters and shirts, which will also be available for purchase at special bash prices. Tribute album participants currently scheduled to attend include the following: Steve Brown of Trixter - "Big Girl (You Are Beautiful)", Ted Poley of Danger Danger - "All Lips N' Hips", Vic Rivera of Poley/Rivera - "All Lips N' Hips", David Z of ZO2 - "Spit" (a.k.a. "Split"), Kelli McCloud - "Spit" (a.k.a. "Split"), C.C. Banana - "Spit" (a.k.a. "Split"), R.E. Asbury of Dogwhistle - "BMW", Celisa Stratton - "Whole Lotta Love", Paul LaPlaca - "Fat Bottomed Girls," "Baby Got Back" + more, Doug Darrell of Triangle Exception - "Big, Fat, Sexy Mama". WebLinks: www.myspace.com/WholeLottaLoveTribute / www.SplitScreenEntertainment.com.

 

 

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

UNRULY CHILD - WORLD'S COLLIDE: Frontiers Records announces the anticipated Unruly Child new reunion album. With the return of the original line-up, "Worlds Collide" is destined to make waves in the Melodic Rock world. After disbanding over sixteen years ago, all the original members of the legendary Melodic Hard Rock quintet Unruly Child, have reunited to produce a brand new album entitled "Worlds Collide" due for release on October 15 in Europe and October 26 in the USA on Frontiers Records. Marcie Michelle Free (vocalist - King Kobra, Signal), Bruce Gowdy (guitarist – Stone Fury, World Trade), and Guy Allison (keyboardist – Lodgic, World Trade, Doobie Brothers) are back together again and have written and recorded a stunning new cd. Rejoining Free, Gowdy, and Allison are original band members from the first record produced in 1992 by Beau Hill (Ratt, Winger, The Storm, Europe) and released on Interscope/Atlantic in 1992: drummer - Jay Schellen (Hurricane, World Trade, Asia), and bassist - Larry Antonino (Pablo Cruise). Since the initial release of the critically-acclaimed "Unruly Child", all the band members have successfully pursued accomplished careers in the music industry. Marcie Michelle Free, one of the world's finest and in recent times, most renowned transgendered vocalists, first released a solo record as Mark Free entitled "Long Way From Love" in 1993 and then another solo record as Marcie Free titled "Tormented" in 1996. While the original band may have been disbanded, guitarist Bruce Gowdy and keyboardist Guy Allison were not dormant during the past 16 years. They produced two more Unruly Child records without Free, and participated on another World Trade album with Schellen. They have also pursued other projects and their reputation as writers, performers and arrangers is second to none with experiences with the likes of Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple), Bobby Kimball (Toto), Doobie Brothers, Boz Scaggs, Air Supply and The Moody Blues. Drummer Jay Schellen and bass player Larry Antonino are a solid powerhouse rhythm section. After Schellen worked with Gowdy and Allison on World Trade's "Euphoria" in 1995, he rejoined Hurricane with singer Kelly Hansen on "Liquifury". He also was part of the Asia album "Silent Nation" line-up and keeps touring and recording with Asia featuring John Payne nowadays. Antonino has played with Ambrosia and Air Supply and in addition to being one of the world's most respected bass players, he has pursued acting, with his most notable role being that of "The Wolfman" in the movie "That Thing You Do" starring Tom Hanks. But the puzzle would not quite be complete until the awesome cover art was designed by none other than the famed, Hugh Syme (Rush, Megadeth, Whitesnake etc.). The final piece for the ultimate reunion, as he also designed the original Unruly Child debut album artwork. "When Bruce called me, I knew what he was going to ask me before the words came out of his mouth", says Marcie Free " Two weeks before I had a long talk with my higher power and he told me it was time I came out of retirement to start giving back what has been given to me. So you could say it is divine providence". "This whole record "Worlds Collide" was a surprising experience, it's like we never left" adds Bruce Gowdy, while Guy Allison adds "While we initially thought that we'd have to try to think like "Unruly Child", we discovered that once we got together again, it was really second nature. "One of the absolute strengths of this version of the band is how we are able to get out of each other's way. There's an unspoken trust between Bruce, Marcie and myself – and it allows us to bring our separate visions together perfectly. Once you add the talents of Jay and Larry to the mix, it's like magic". With so much excitement centered around their new record it has sparked fires of tour talk. Something this group has never done before. Will they hit the road in Europe or the States? "We all have been talking about doing some live shows and the prospects are good that we will. We have been hearing from quite a lot of European promoters so we will have to sit down with them and plan something. It's looking like summer of 2011 is a good possibility" tells Marcie. The band already has material in preparation for a follow up, but will likely release a remixed, remastered and updated version of "Tormented" with bonus tracks and new material before breaking ground on the next record. Unruly Child are also in the process of securing the rights to their first record for a future re-release. The group, in its constant state of evolution has generated an exciting new album reflecting its musical roots in contemporary and classic rock sensibility. With the return to the original line-up, they have discovered that while time may pass, some things never change. In their case, that's a good thing. The future looks very promising for the rebirth of Unruly Child. "Worlds Collide" final tracklisting includes: Show Me The Money; Insane; When We Were Young; Tell Another Lie; Love Is Blind; When Worlds Collide; Talk To Me; Life Death; Read My Mind; Neverland; Very First Time; You Don't Understand. The songs "Very First Time" and "When Worlds Collide" can exclusively be listened to in full by streaming on the Frontiers Web Radio from August 31st. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio/ Lineup: Marcie Michelle Free: vocals, Bruce Gowdy: guitars, Guy Allison: keyboards, Larry Antonino: bass, Jay Schellen: drums. Weblinks: www.unrulychild.net / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx JANI LANE CONFIRMS DATES WITH GREAT WHITE: Didn't see this one coming - Jani Jane will join Great White on tour for the rest of the year while Jack Russell recuperates from his recent hospitalization. Making it even more bizarre, Jani's old band mates in Warrant are scheduled to open for GW November 12. Press Release / "Jani will be stepping up to the Mic as Great White front man briefly. Jani has agreed to perform in place of his long-time friend, Jack Russell, while Jack recuperates." The following dates are confirmed... "I consider it an honor and a privilege!" - Jani Lane. September 3, 2010 El Paso, TX Speaking Rock September 4, 2010 Galveston, TX Moody Gardens Conv Cntr (with Night Ranger) September 24, 2010 Bolingbrook, IL Tailgater's September 25, 2010 Farmington, MN Rocktoberfest September 26, 2010 Council Bluffs, IA Horseshoe Council Bluffs October 1, 2010 Yuciapa, CA Angel's Roadhouse October 2, 2010 Ramona, CA Ramona Mainstage October 29, 2010 Redding, CA Harvest Festival 2010 (Harvest Festival Website) October 30, 2010 Lewiston, ID Clearwater River Casino November 6, 2010 Lisbon, Portugal "Live in Lisbon" November 12, 2010 Medina, MN Medina Entertainment Center December 31, 2010 Tower, MN Fortune Bay Casino Read more: www.myspace.com/saintsoftheundergroundfans/blog?bID=538683539#ixzz0y9fgkBFs. SHOTGUN SYMPHONY LAUNCHES WEBSITE AND ANNOUNCES NEW DRUMMER: Asbury, New Jersey, August 30, 2010 – To coincide with the bands performance at this year's Firefest, Shotgun Symphony has launched their official website (www.shotgunsymphony.net). In addition the band welcomes aboard drummer Chris O'Hara (Dramarama) who replaces original drummer Ron Sivulich Jr. Tracy White explains, "Although we regret that Ron will not be able to join us for this performance we are thrilled to have Chris on board, he is an A++ drummer and is a welcomed addition". The band is set to begin rehearsals shortly for their one-off performance of their debut CD at Firefest 2010. (left to right: Tracy White, Charlie Calv, Mike Maino, Chris O'Hara, Ed Avila)   MARKY RAMONE GIG TO SUPPORT DRUM SCHOLARSHIP!: Hollywood, CA (August 30, 2010) – Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big, David Lee Roth), Michael Graves (The Misfits), Jeff Duncan (Armored Saint), Marko DeSantis (Sugarcult) and Andy Hilfiger (bassologist/Fashion Guru) are the first fully confirmed artists to join Marky Ramone while he slams out a full concert of The Ramones. You will hear the music that defined many generations and inspired many bands. Marky's set list is comprised of 31 historical Ramones songs such as Sedated, K.K.K., Psychotherapy, Blitzkreig Bop, Pinhead and more! The legendary Rock Hall of Fame drummer for The Ramones is performing a special all-star fund-raising concert on Friday, October 8, 2010 at 8pm in the MI Concert Hall. Doors open at 7:30pm. The concert is in benefit for the newly-created Marky Ramone Drum Scholarship for Musicians Institute in Hollywood, CA. "I am very honored to be chosen as an artist for the scholarship program. Music for kids is very important to have," explains Marky. 100% of the event proceeds will fund the newly-created Marky Ramone Drum Scholarship at MI. Online Advance Sale: General Admission seats (festival seating) are $30, VIP seating is $45 (guaranteed first 3 rows), $99 VIP Backstage (First 3 rows seating guaranteed | Backstage Pass | After-Show Meet & Greet | Special Marky Ramone Gift bag). To Buy Marky Ramone Concert Tickets go to www.Ticketweb.com. WALK-UP (day of show): General Admission seats (festival seating) are $35, VIP seating is $50 (guaranteed first 3 rows), VIP Backstage not available. Musicians Institute Concert Hall, 1655 N. McCadden Place, Hollywood, CA 90028. PHIL VINCENT TALKS D'ERCOLE, TRAGIK, AND MORE WITH HARDROCK HAVEN: Singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Phil Vincent checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about the brand new D'Ercole release The Art of Self Destruction; specific tracks on the new album like 'The Last Time' and 'Face to Face;' musical influences in D'Ercole and vocal influences in general; the possibility of an upcoming tour; and how Vincent ended up writing the Hardrock Haven theme song! To hear the interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/phil-vincent-of-dercole. A new interview with Robby Takac of the Goo Goo Dolls can be found at: www.rockmusicstar.com/googoodolls. Legendary guitarist Steve Hackett is a busy man. In the last year he has released a new album, performed all over the world, and been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Genesis. In an interview with Long Live Rock on Blog Talk Radio, Hackett discussed all of that, and he also gave some insight into his upcoming project called Squackett, which pairs him with Yes bassist Chris Squire. "Parts of it are progressive, but I'd like to think it's more than that," Hackett said. "There are some songs that are extremely accessible. I think it's a songwriter's album as much as an instrumentalist's album." The guitarist hopes the album will hold some surprises for even the most ardent fan. "There'll be certain things on there that I think you'll be hard-pressed to say this is a combination of guys that have come from Genesis and Yes," he noted. "I think it's bigger than that. We cast a wider net over all the genres." Hackett says the Squackett project is complete and is only waiting to see whether it will be released by a major record company, or independently. In the meantime he has recently released a solo album entitled Out Of The Tunnel's Mouth and has been touring extensively. Listen to the Long Live Rock interview at this link: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/08/29/interview-with-guitarist-steve-hackett-from-long-live-rock/ DIMEBAG TRIBUTE SONG HITS ITUNES: David Ellefson (Megadeth, F5) and Tristan '1690' Grigsby (DaiTribe) Tim "Ripper" Owens (Charred Walls Of The Damned, Iced Earth, Beyond Fear, Judas Priest) and Jason Bittner (Shadows Fall, Burning Human) recorded a song called "Leave It Alone" several years ago for a Dimebag Darrell memorial disc that has yet to be released. The song is available exclusively on iTunes here. METAL IN OVERDRIVE WITH UPDATE FROM SWEDEN: Swedish heavy metal band Overdrive has decided to give everyone a sneak peak of the forthcoming album, working title Angelmaker. A medley of 10 of the tracks is now featured on the band's MySpace page: www.myspace.com/overdrivesweden Overdrive is currently shopping the recording and have already received some interest. Nothing is however settled as the boys don't want to rush it, but find the best label for the band. The album was mixed by Pelle Saether (Grand Design, Steel Attack, Demonical etc) at Studio Underground. New t-shirts, hoodies, patches etc are available through the band's website: www.overdrive.se. Upcoming shows: Sept 9 Sigurdsgatan, Västerås (Sweden) (+Sour System) Sept 11 Metal Warning III, Helsinki (Finland) (+Torch, RAM, Gobra, Sarcofagus etc)

 

 

Monday, August 30, 2010

MELODIC ROCK RECORDS - CALLING ALL MEDIA: I figured this would be a great time to give a general shout out to any and all media outlets and radio stations out there that read the site. If you are in a position to help promote MelodicRock Records releases, please drop me a line ASAP! Some have already been contacted, but I'd love to hear from any radio stations that have a say in what they play and any other media outlets that can promote/giveaway music downloads and run press releases/interviews for some very deserving artists. I look forward to hearing from you. I would also be interested in hearing what web/social sites and media platforms my readers are using to discover new music (besides this site!). It might help me target specific outlets in an attempt to reach a more general audience outside this scene. E-Mail Now. Unfortunately there's no headline news today regarding the new MRR signing - still ironing out artwork for the release. So that will be announced this week sometime along with a fourth artist signed to the new label. Might have some other interesting news also.   UNRULY CHILD SNEAK PEAK #2: Here is another exclusive short sneak peak at the upcoming Unruly Child come-back CD World's Collide. It's the track that the title is taken from - When World's Collide. TONY MILLS SUFFERS HEART ATTACK: TNT frontman Tony Mills has suffered a shock heart attack upon arrival in Norway to sing with the band. He is now recovering. This update from the band: "Tony Mills, vocalist in band TNT, suffered a heart-attack at Oslo Airport Saturday afternoon on the way to a gig with TNT. Mills is now in recovery and will be moved out of intensive care tomorrow, Monday. Mills wishes to thank personnel who have helped him at Oslo Airport and in the intensive unit at the hospital. Mills and TNT thanks all fans and friends for the support in the last two days. "I look forward to coming back and singing!" says Mills. Get well soon Tony! NEW HEART MAKES DEBUT THIS WEEK: With anticipation mounting for Heart's August 31 release of their first new studio album in six years, Red Velvet Car, Heart is seeing success on the road and at radio with their singles "WTF" and "Hey You" seeing increased airplay on AC, AAA and Classic Rock stations across the country. Ann and Nancy Wilson will be in New York City in support of their new release and will be appearing on several national television shows including: "Fox & Friends" (9/1,) "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon" (9/2,) "The Today Show" (8/31,) and "ShopNBC" (8/29.) Appearances on "The Joy Behar Show" will air on August 25 and on NPR's "Weekend Edition" on September 4. Like all Heart albums, Red Velvet Car rocks hard but also has a deep acoustic side. Nancy Wilson has long been known to play her acoustic guitar with rock ferocity. This time an abundance of resonant acoustic instruments (guitars, mandolin, dobro, banjo, fiddle, viola, cello, and autoharp), played by Nancy Wilson and the album's producer, Ben Mink, are showcased in Heart's unique style. Nine of the album's songs were written for, and appear for the first time on Red Velvet Car. The album's closer, "Sand," is a newly recorded version of a song originally written and recorded by the Lovemongers, Ann and Nancy's 1990's acoustic side project. The release of Red Velvet Car heralds Legacy's forthcoming reissues of the classic Heart catalog in new physical and digital editions. Ann Wilson and her younger sister, Nancy Wilson, first showed the world that women can rock when their band Heart stormed the charts in the '70s with hits like "Crazy on You," "Magic Man," "Barracuda," 'Straight On," "Even It Up," "Kick It Out" and so many more. Not only did the Wilson sisters lead the band, they wrote the songs, and played the instruments too, making them the first women in rock to do so. Heart continued topping the charts through the '80s and into the '90s with huge hits like "These Dreams," "Alone," "What About Love," "If Looks Could Kill," "Never," and a string of other hits that showcased the sisters' enormous talents as both musicians and singers. Along the way, Heart sold more than 30 million records, had 21 top 40 hits, sold out arenas worldwide, and had a profound influence on rock music. For More Information, Please Visit: www.Heart-Music.com / www.myspace.com/Heart / www.facebook.com/Heart / www.twitter.com/OfficialHeart / www.youtube.com/TheBandHeart. LIBERTY & JUSTICE CHASING A GOOD CAUSE: This is Justin Murr with Liberty N' Justice and I thought I would update everybody on all things LNJ. This summer I was in the process of recording a "New" LNJ double CD (14 covers and 12 originals) where 23 of the 26 songs are recorded and more than half are done with some very cool guest artists. I went into this album wanting to create just a fun rock n' roll record, not trying to record "Light It Up 2" but just a heavy groove guitar fun spirited record and I think every one involved has done a great job seeing my vision through... During this summer though I (sorta) put that record on hold when my 12 year old daughter had some health issues. She was diagnosed with epilepsy 5 years ago and five months ago the medication would not control her seizures any more. She started having 30-40 seizures a night and was placed in the hospital and eventually moved into the ICU. Trinity Paige (my daughter) was placed into a medically induced coma and when that did not work they did brain surgery where they removed a large portion of her right frontal lobe. Through God's amazing grace and a testament of his love past my failing faith, Paige 2 weeks later is showing no signs of seizure activity and has started going to school for half days. Being a songwriter/musician during these times I emptied my feelings on paper with what was going on with her, my marriage, and me. With Vic Rivera's talent and direction we recorded a 5-song EP that we are releasing to benefit The Epilepsy Foundation and all the artists involved have donated there time and talent to see my dream through. Please help up us spread the word, we will have more info soon on all the singers, musicians, whose helping us release it and how you can help a great cause... The CD is called: Liberty N' Justice with Vic Rivera "Chasing A Cure" (5 song EP). WebLinks: www.libertynjustice.net / www.facebook.com/libertynjustice / www.myspace.com/libertynjustice2.   VINCE NEIL LIVE IN CHICOPEE: As frontman for Mötley Crüe, Vince Neil came to exemplify all things rock and roll: the sound, the look, the outrageous lifestyle. Neil's unmistakable voice leads some of the greatest rock songs of this generation including "Shout At The Devil," "Home Sweet Home," "Girls, Girls, Girls," "Dr. Feelgood," "Kickstart My Heart," "Same Ol Situation," and the recent "Saints of Los Angeles," which was nominated for a Grammy Award in early 2009 for Best Hard Rock Performance. After selling 80 million records around the world, Vince Neil and Mötley Crüe have spent the past year and a half playing before more than a million rock fans across the globe including Crüe Fest, the top rock festival of 2008 and Crüe Fest 2 which solidified the Mötley Crüe powered rock fest as a top bill for summer rock. This Oct 15th, Maximum Capacity is proud to announce Vince Neil will be bringing his Outrageous lifestyle to the Max Cap stage! This is a show that all rock fans should not miss. Oct 15th Vince Neil With Special Guest Farcry and Bad Magik. Maximum Capacity - 116 School St Chicopee MA 413-592-0719.   FM LINE UP MORE GIGS: FM are pleased to announce their UK tour in support of new album METROPOLIS continues... In addition to 3 more dates in October, FM have been added to the bill at Hard Rock Hell IV on Friday December 3. As if this wasn't exciting enough, the FM Christmas Party tradition returns with the announcement of a show at O2 Academy Islington on Wednesday December 1. More details of the Christmas show will be announced over the coming weeks. "Bring Back Yesterday" from the bands acclaimed METROPOLIS album has been added straight to the BBC Radio 2 "B" list w.e.f. 28.08.10 and details of a new EP will be announced very soon. Oct 6 Newcastle O2 Academy www.ticketweb.co.uk 0844 477 2000 Oct 7 Manchester Club Academy www.ticketline.co.uk 0161 832 1111 Oct 8 Buckley Tivoli www.seetickets.com 0870 264 3333 Dec 1 London O2 Academy Islington www.ticketweb.co.uk 0844 477 2000 Dec 3 Prestatyn Hard Rock Hell IV www.seetickets.com 0870 264 3333 Video – FM "I Heard It Through The Grapevine" Live at O2 Academy Islington 9th July 2010: www.youtube.com/user/FMofficialTV?feature=mhum#p/u/0/39g0OWGLCF8. INTRODUCING ALIBI BRIDGE: Alibi Bridge is a 3-piece band based in Nashville, TN. Formed in 2010 the band has posted 4 new original songs written by the band on their website www.myspace.com/alibibridge with more tracks to follow by years end.The new music is currently receiving airplay on internet radio station www.musictogousa.com and will be making a rare acoustic appearance in Nashville on December 1 at the Commodore Grille in Nashville to promote the new songs with more dates to follow in 2011. Website Track listing: 1. Without you (I'm not me) 2. Bring Back the love 3. Wait 4. What might have been. RHINO BUCKET LATEST ARTIST TO GO TO THE FANS: The time has come for Rhino Bucket to record a new record and rather than the customary pre-sale that we usually do, we have decided to reach out further and involve everyone in the process. Those of you not familiar with the band, they continue the tradition of bad ass boogie-rock ala AC/DC and ZZ Top. They were on a major label in the past, broke up for a while and resurrected the band a few years back. The Bucket has had songs in films ranging from Wayne's World to The Wrestler - That's a pretty long career span! The funds we raise though Kickstarter will go directly to recording and promoting a new record. We have a great producer on-board with credits including Danzig, The Vines, and many more so the record is sure to be loud and proud. The songs will be recorded in Los Angeles and we will be filming the event, editing clips together so you can see the progress and get a sneak peek of the songs as we go. We'll do as many updates as we can. We have some great rewards, including some things we get asked for a lot – signed items, out of print records, etc. Local LA underground artist Todd Bemis will be doing a limited hand-screened poster signed and numbered by him and the band, and we recently discovered the multi-track tapes of Rhino Bucket live at the Coconut Teaszer in LA that will be available as a download as well. And, as if that's not enough, we have included an iPod Nano with the entire Rhino Bucket Catalog – that's ALL six records (including the new one), Coconut Teaszer live, bonus tracks and previously unheard material. We even have a special limited reward to sing background vocals on the record! We'll send you a rough mix of the track, YOU shout out the vocals into computer microphone, webcam, cassette deck - whatever you have - send it to us and we'll include you in the gang background vocals on the song! Now that's badass. The Bucket is ready to make a record, let's do it together! 2006 marked return of Rhino Bucket after a 10 year lapse, with the "And Then It Got Ugly". Picking up where the band left off, they introduced their newest member, guitarist Brian "Damage" Forsythe of KIX fame. A full scale US tour followed, including dates with Supersuckers, Velvet Revolver and a performance at the infamous Rocklahoma festival. Rhino Bucket can be heard in the critically acclaimed Mickey Rourke film and soundtrack to "The Wrestler," as well as MTV, MTVU, VH1 Classic, Fuel TV and such prime time hits as Knight Rider, Sons Of Anarchy and The Unit. WebLinks: www.kickstarter.com/projects/acetaterecords/rhino-bucket-new-album-project. INTERVIEWS ONLINE: TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest Podcast (episode #106), featuring Gamma Ray Vocalist/Guitarist Kai Hansen. Kai took time out of his busy schedule to discuss Gamma Ray's current release To the Metal, as well their current tour. Kai gives us the low down on several of the tracks on the CD and more. Interview lasts approx. 25 min. While to the average person, metal is just loud guitars and screaming, to the aficionado, it's much more complex. Initially categorized as traditional, hair and thrash, now there are so many genres it's hard to keep track. Join Genghis and Ragman, as they dig deep into this music to see what they can unearth. You'll be amazed with what they come up with. Next the boys have lined up Gamma Ray main man, Kai Hansen, who discusses his band's latest effort, To the Metal, as well as his relationship with former Helloween vocalist, Michael Kiske. Newly signed Atlantic Record recording artist Bad City is exploding on the scene with their debut release "Welcome To The Wasteland" (RockEyez 5 Stars). Come read the review and Interview with frontman Josh Caddy on RockEyez.com. RockEyez' David Felix interviews one of the Number One leading vocalist worldwide Mr. Tony Harnell. Come read the interview on RockEyez www.rockeyez.com.

 

 

Friday, August 27, 2010

SAMPLE THIS!: Unruly Child 2010 - The first exclusive one minute preview of the new When World's Collide album...the song Very First Time. Check this melodic monster out now! News of the new MelodicRock Records signing will have to wait until Monday due to a couple of slight delays. Preview a track right now though with this MRR Artist Download. Should be a great week for announcements next week. THE POODLES SIGN TO FRONTIERS RECORDS: Since the release of The Poodles' third studio effort, "Clash of the Elements", the band has received and discussed several offers from potential collaborators in anticipation of future releases. After long and careful consideration, the band chose to go with Frontiers Records, a powerful independent label with a strong passion for rock music and an equally strong desire to work with The Poodles and to develop the band's presence in all territories. The Poodles are excited and eager to see the new business venture unfold and they have high expectations on what the partnership will bring in the near future. Jake Samuel, the lead singer of The Poodles says that "The most important thing in any collaboration is a shared vision of what one wants to accomplish. In our case, that vision must come from a deep love for rock n' roll, mutual respect and willingness to do whatever it takes to reach your goals. I think we have found those qualities in Frontiers Records". Stay up-dated on what's happening with The Poodles and coming releases on: www.poodles.se or www.facebook.com/thepoodles.   FROM THE DESK OF GIBSON.COM: Gibson.com's Top 50 Frontmen (and Frontwomen): Full List, Readers Poll Revealed: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/all-top-50-0827/ Ray Davies Recruits Famous Friends for New Album: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/ray-davies-0827/ Bon Jovi Greatest Hits to Feature New Material: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/bon-jovi-0827/ Bruce Springsteen Announces Enormous Box Set: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/Springsteen-Box-Set-827/ QUEENSRYCHE SIGNS TO ROADRUNNER/LOUD & PROUD RECORDS: New York, NY: Four-time Grammy nominees Queensryche have signed a multi-album, worldwide deal with Roadrunner/Loud & Proud Records. The band's label debut –their twelfth studio album overall- is tentatively scheduled for a Spring 2011 release. Singer and founder Geoff Tate remains the creative nucleus of the band, which continues to make relevant, against-the-grain hard rock that entices fans, both new and diehard. Queensryche have been – and unquestionably remain- one of the most respected and innovative names in forward-thinking hard rock throughout the course of their nearly 30-year history. Since their inception over 25 years ago, Queensryche have sold over 20 million albums worldwide and have performed in over 22 countries. "We are very happy to be signing with Road Runner/Loud and Proud. This is the rock label and a place where they are as excited about our music as we and our fans are," Tate said. "We are excited to welcome Queensryche to the label" stated Loud & Proud President Tom Lipsky. "They have earned global acclaim for their distinctive approach to music and we are confident of a successful partnership with them." Queenryche's 1988-issued album Operation: Mindcrime is universally respected as a classic concept release about rock, revenge and redemption. The album elicited comparisons to The Who's Tommy and Pink Floyd's The Wall and is ultimately regarded as one of the most important and essential hard rock records in the genre's expansive canon. 1990's follow-up, Empire, yielded a #1 single, the Grammy-nominated ballad "Silent Lucidity," which the band performed at the 1992 Grammy Awards accompanied by a supporting orchestra. In 2006, the band released Operation: Mindcrime II, a scorching sequel to their original. The band then hit the road performing both albums Operation: Mindcrime and Operation: Mindcrime II back-to-back in their entirety in an incredible theatrical presentation throughout the year. The final performance was recorded at The Moore Theatre in Seattle that October and the Mindcrime at the Moore double CD/DVD release debuted at #1 on Billboard's Top Music DVD Chart and eventually reached Gold status. Visit: www.queensryche.com for more information. ERIC JOHNSON, ANDY McKEE & PEPPINO D'AGOSTINO UNITE FOR TOUR: Three of the most popular, talented, innovative and musically rich guitar players and composers in contemporary music will bring their acoustic guitars together to perform and interact on stages across America this October and January 2011 when Eric Johnson, Andy McKee and Peppino D'Agostino meet on the Guitar Masters tour. The 21-date two-leg run of theaters, colleges and clubs will feature individual sets by each capped with a finale where all three interplay and collaborate for the first time together to offer an engaging and enlightening aural feast of acoustic six-string mastery and melodic brilliance. The trek is sure to be an unforgettable musical experience for concertgoers that unites guitar virtuosos not just known for their awesome skills and technique but a mutual gift for song composition and melody and drawing out the full musicality of the solo acoustic guitar to near-orchestral dimensions. Creative sparks, one-time only stunning improvisations and mutual inspiration are sure to abound as they come together at the end of every show to offer a value-added concert bill that appeals to fans of many musical styles as well as guitar aficionados. Grammy-winner Johnson is one of the most respected and renowned guitarists playing today, celebrated for his electric six-string playing and songwriting gifts, but also his acoustic talents that have graced his albums and which he has showcased on a number of previous solo tours. He is enshrined in Guitar Player's Gallery of Greats and was named one of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of the 20th Century by Musician magazine, took three instrumental songs from his 1990 platinum album Ah Via Musicom into the pop Top 10, and boasts a total of five Grammy nominations. 'He's an extraordinary guitar player accessible to ordinary music fans,' raves the Memphis Commercial Appeal. Andy McKee is an Internet phenomenon whose solo acoustic six-string performance videos and compositional flair have racked up an astounding 78 million-plus plays on YouTube, where he has also held the three Top-Rated Videos of All Time. His creative and innovative use of altered tunings, syncopated rhythm guitar taps, partial capos, and his textural use of polyphonic tones and drones won him Acoustic Guitar magazine's worldwide Silver Medal award for fingerstyle playing in 2008. With six strong-selling and critically-lauded independent albums to his credit, McKee is a popular and engaging live music attraction who plays some 200 shows a year internationally. As the Lawrence Journal observes, McKee has 'forged a distinctive style that proves eye-opening and ear-opening to many." Native Italian Peppino D'Agostino 'plays steel-string guitar with virtuosity and complexity… Influences as far-flung as the flamenco work of Paco de Lucia and the pop sensibilities of the Beatles, evident in the songs he's written, which brim with memorable melodies,' raves the Chicago Tribune. Now residing in the San Francisco Bay area, he was voted Best Acoustic Guitarist in Guitar Player's 2007 Readers Poll and won Acoustic Guitar's Players Choice Award the following year for Best Acoustic Album Of All Time. He has nine previous U.S. CD releases, including collaborations with electric rock guitar star Stef Burns and classical guitar expert David Tanenbaum, and also adds his steel string playing to eight nylon-string savants in the United Guitar Ensemble. The San Diego Reader hails D'Agostino as 'a giant of the acoustic guitar.' The tour will be the first time that McKee has met Johnson, whose hit 'Cliffs of Dover' inspired him to play guitar. 'He's really musical.' McKee observes. 'It's like hearing a song but rather than having a vocalist he covers the melody and all the bases at once with his guitar. I still listen to his music all the time and even make references to it in my playing.' D'Agostino has opened shows for Johnson and notes, 'When he plays he really puts his special knowledge in it.' He is also an admirer of McKee's talent. 'What he does with techniques like tapping and his compositions is fabulous. He's an amazing player.' 'Andy is a great player who puts it all these guitar technique into songs he writes and plays that make them quite interesting. But it's still all about the song,' Johnson observes of McKee. 'Peppino is a really emotional and very soulful player. And he comes from a little bit different background than Andy and I do, so it's really nice combination for all of us to come from our different sources and mix it all together.' The tour will coincide with the release of Johnson's new album, Up Close, on his own Vortexan label via EMI. McKee issued his latest recording, the CD/DVD package Joyland, on Razor & Tie Records in March. And D'Agostino's latest album, Nine White Kites, comes out on his own label August 24. Guitar Masters tour itinerary: Oct 1 Milwaukee, WI Northern Lights Theater Oct 2 Indianapolis, IN Clowes Memorial Hall Oct 3 Ann Arbor, MI The Ark Oct 6 Salina, KS Stiefel Theatre Oct 7 Iowa City, IA Englert Theatre Oct 8 Kansas City, MO Uptown Theatre Oct 9 Rochester, MN Mayo Civic Center Oct 10 Evanston, IL Space Oct 13 Phoenixville, PA Colonial Theatre Oct 14 Lebanon, NH Lebanon Opera House Oct 15 Bethesda, MD Music Center at Strathmore Oct 16 Westhampton Beach, NY Performing Arts Center Oct 17 Ridgefield, CT Ridgefield Playhouse Jan 14 San Luis Obispo, CA Spano Theatre Jan 15 Mission Viejo, CA Norman P. Murray Center Jan 16 San Rafael, CA Marin Center Jan 17 Visalia, CA Fox Theatre Jan 19 Arcata, CA Van Duzer Theater Jan 20 Chico, CA Laxson Auditorium Jan 21 Napa, CA Opera House For more info please visit: www.ericjohnson.com/media/acoustic. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new features: - Feature Album: Fire Dept. - Things Are Tough All Over - Bon Jovi - Days Like These (Live Japan 1995)(2CDs, Soundboard) - Europe - Live In Sundsvall 1992 (Soundboard) MR-X Membership Details. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: CD Showcase has been updated with the following new releases for preview: Salute & Phenomena (Escape Music, September 24 release); Sister Sin, Casanova & Ken's Dojo (AOR Heaven, out now). Sample Previews.

 

 

Thursday, August 26, 2010

MYSTERY ARTIST PREVIEW: MRCD7 Forces Of Dark & Light heads to the manufacturer next week, but there is still time to place pre-orders and receive the additional 8 bonus tracks. And there is still a few tracks from the release that have not been previewed. So please check out: Edge Of Forever - I Won't Call You (featuring Bob Harris of Axe) and Disc One, Track Two - another MYSTERY ARTIST DOWNLOAD. This artist is the next-to-be-announced release from MelodicRock Records - details of which will be announced tomorrow! Do let me know what you think, these guys are great! Pre-Order MRCD7.   MESSAGE FROM DAVE MENIKETTI OF Y&T: "As many of you know already, Phil Kennemore was recently diagnosed with metastatic cancer. Phil has undergone a barrage of tests, a long hospital stay at Stanford, an operation, and will soon start aggressive chemotherapy to regain his health and get him back with the band on stage again. Because of this and potentially more treatments to come, I have put together a fund for Phil so that people from around the world can make donations to help him with his enormous medical bills. I have set up a page for this Fund and you can visit it at the link below, for more information on how you can contribute: www.meniketti.com/philfund.html. Feel free to spread the word and share this link with your friends. Any donation, no matter what the size, will be greatly appreciated. Cheers, Dave." STRYPER - OZ FOX IN OZ AND USA: This weekend is a very busy weekend for Oz Fox of Stryper! If you are in Australia you will want to catch one of the special 25th Anniversary Stryper shows going on this weekend... Melbourne – Wednesday 25th August – Billboard the Venue Sydney – Thursday 26th August – The Metro Theatre Brisbane – Saturday 28th August – The Hi Fi Brisbane But what is even more amazing is that if you are in California you can catch Oz Fox on Sunday night in Temecula California headlining this years Up From The Ashes 3 Festival where he will be headlining with Bloodgood! That's right as soon as Stryper's show in Brisbane ends on Saturday night Oz will be on a red eye flight all the way back to California to headline this years 25th Anniversary show in celebration of 25 year of HM Magazine where he will be gracing the stage with many other acts at this special 2 Day Christian Rock and Metal Festival celebrating the anniversary of the magazine that helped launch the success of Stryper and many other Christian Rock bands over 25 years ago! Tickets are limited and available at www.ticketweb.com and you can check out the video promo for the show here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgMAjhcrlHk. TOUR DATES FOR JASON BONHAM'S LED ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE: Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience will be celebrating the life and music of his father; the legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham this fall. A limited concert tour, timed to commemorate the 30th anniversary of his Dad's passing on September 25th, 1980, will kick off in North America on October 8, 2010 in British Columbia. JBLZE will start up the USA run on October 19 in Minneapolis and run through late November. The tour arrives at major North American cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Philadelphia, Toronto, Montreal, Houston, Seattle, Vancouver and many others. See the full itinerary below. Tickets go on sale starting Friday, August 20. Audio samples here: www.jblze.com. October 8 Dawson Creek, BC Encana Events Center 9 Prince George, BC CN Centre 12 Edmonton, AB Northern Alberta Jubilee 13 Red Deer, AB Emmax Centre 14 Calgary, AB Southern Alberta Jubilee 16 Regina, SK Brandt Centre 17 Winnipeg, MB MTS Centre 19 Minneapolis, MN State Theatre 20 Milwaukee, WI Riverside Theatre 21 Merrilville, IN (Chicago) Star Plaza 23 Montreal, QUE Metropolis 25 Quebec City, QUE Grand Theatre 27 Hamilton, ON Hamilton Place-Great Hall 28 Kitchener, ON Centre in the Square 29 Toronto, ON Sony Centre 30 Rochester, NY Auditorium Theater November 2 Boston, MA The Orpheum 3 Red Bank, NJ Count Basie Theater 4 Englewood, NJ Bergen PAC 6 Philadelphia, PA Merriam Theater 8 New York, NY Nokia Theatre 13 Jacksonville, FL Florida Theater 14 Melbourne, FL King Center 16 Houston, TX Verizon Theatre 21 Riverside, CA Fox PAC 23 Los Angeles, CA Pantages Theater 26 Portland, OR Schnitzer Concert Hall 27 Seattle, WA WaMu Theater 29 Vancouver, BC The Center PAC SEVENTH WONDER HUNT FOR DRUMMER: Andreas Blomqvist from Seventh Wonder wrote in, asking if I could publish the following: "We need to find a new drummer as of quite recently. Johnny's farewell and band response: www.ultimatemetal.com/forum. The post with application details for any one who wants to try out: www.ultimatemetal.com/forum/seventh-wonder/618949-seventh-wonder-looking-new-drummer.html."

 

 

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

HOW MUCH FOR THAT FREE EP?: Don't forget the Fenrik Lane - MelodicRock EP FREE Download via: www.melodicrockrecords.com - and also further down below in the newsdesk. Time now to reveal the final audio samples for this terrific album! Pre-orders via: www.melodicrockrecords.com/store. New Track Samples for "317": 05) Runaway Car 07) Left Me Scarred 09) Bulletproof 10) Hello 12) Hate How You Say Goodbye 13) Sun Explodes 14) Russian Roulette WebLinks: www.fenriklane.com / www.myspace.com/fenriklane / www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pZCXkskOkI / www.melodicrockrecords.com. Release Dates: September 10 (pre-orders), September 17 (in-stores, CD). Pre-Orders available now (see below).   JAMES LABRIE LINES UP SOLO ALBUM #2: The man has one of the most distinctive voices in modern day Prog Rock, James LaBrie is known for being the vocalist of progressive giants Dream Theater. He joined the trailblazing fivesome in 1992 and has since recorded eleven studio-albums with Dream Theater. Besides being in the spotlight for the Prog Rock force from New York LaBrie has launched an impressive solo career... Static Impulse is his latest masterpiece that reveals astonishing new facets of James LaBrie's music. Released Europe: 27.9.2010 / North America: 2010.9.28. "Matt and I wanted to make an aggressive album, something that was heavy", James says. "Today the excitement in the music stems from bands that have a unique sound but are still diverse." LaBrie and his creative partner, keyboarder Matt Guillory, took even further what they began with "Elements Of Persuasion" in 2005. "The music on "Elements Of Persuasion" was really a good representation of who we were as musicians. That album was well received around the world. So we thought, let's push the envelope! This is a great energy and a natural progression for us." The style of his self-produced new opus the singer describes as "Gothenburg Metal with some progressive elements. To me it´s a heavy rock contemporary metal sounding album." Some listeners may be surprised by the underlying growls that are part of some of the songs. "That´s Peter Wildoer, our drummer. He is not just a phenomenal drummer, he can scream his ass off." Wildoer is well-known for his efficient technical playing as well as for performing alongside bands as diverse as Majestic, Arch Enemy, Old Man's Child, Pestilence as well as his own main group, Darkane. In addition to his songwriting and keyboardist role in the band, this marks the first time Matt Guillory has handled all the background vocals. The guitars are played by Italian Marco Sfogli, the bass is attacked by Ray Riendeau (Halford). All the material was written by LaBrie and Matt Guillory, his co-author for eleven years. "We've been working on the new material on and off since January 2009. We were throwing ideas at each other, collaborated and formed them into songs until the point that we have something that we can really be proud of." "The lyrics deal with what we go through, they are observations. Furthermore there are books and movies that influenced me", LaBrie declares. "Just from being around a lot of people I'm able to observe different personalities and characteristics. Matt has contributed to the lyrics as well, his are more introspective, while mine are more observatory." The Canadian got the initial idea for his solo work in the year 1998. "There are only so many ideas that you can put on to a Dream Theater album. My involvement with Dream Theater as far as writing the music is much less than if I'm writing a solo album. Matt and I are writing everything together. So it was a vehicle for me to be able to show who I am as a musician and writer." As a kid Kevin James LaBrie started to play drums before they found out that he has a very strong voice. Eventually he left the drums behind and decided to get vocal lessons before he joined Canadian Hard Rockers Winter Rose. From there he went on to bigger things. In addition to Dream Theater's numerous studio and live releases James has also appeared on records by Fates Warning and Shadow Gallery, Trent Gardner's Explorer's Club and Leonardo the Absolute Man, the first Frameshift album "Unweaving The Rainbow", Ayreon's "The Human Equation", as well as tribute albums to Rush, Emerson Lake & Palmer, and Queen. In 1999, James completed and released the first MullMuzzler CD, "Keep It To Yourself" to much critical acclaim and its follow-up, James LaBrie's "MullMuzzler 2", was released in 2001. In 2005, James dropped the MullMuzzler moniker and released "Elements Of Persuasion" via InsideOutMusic. Now the time has come for "Static Impulse", skillfully mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street in Sweden (Opeth, Soilwork, Katatonia, etc.), by far the heaviest and most diverse of his solo efforts, exciting to listen to every time anew and highly impressing with its strong overall catchiness. Static Impulse track listing: 01. One More Time (4:16) 02. Jekyll Or Hyde (3:46) 03. Mislead (4:18) 04. Euphoric (5:09) 05. Over The Edge (4:20) 06. I Need You (4:11) 07. Who You Think I Am (3:57) 08. I Tried (3:58) 09. Just Watch Me (4:18) 10. This Is War (4:30) 11. Superstar (3:32) 12. Coming Home (4:29) 13. Jekyll Or Hyde (demo) (3:48) * 14. Coming Home (alternate mix) (4:23) * * Limited-edition digipak bonus tracks. For more information, visit www.jameslabrie.com.   INTRODUCING SEVEN THE HARDWAY - SEVEN THE HARDWAY: Seven the Hardway is a 5-piece progressive rock/metal band based in Southern California. Formed in 2009 by Grammy Nominated guitar virtuoso Tony MacAlpine (Steve Vai, Planet X, CAB) legendary drummer Virgil Donati (Planet X) and renowned vocalist Mark Boals (Uli Jon Roth, Royal Hunt,Yngwie Malmsteen). Joining these three legends are bass player Doug Shreeve and 21 year old Argentinean newcomer Estefania Daniel on guitar. The band's blistering, 10-track self-titled debut was mixed by the legendary Roy Z. Tracklisting: 1. Liar 2. Guilt 3. Solitary Man 4. Where I'm Going 5. All I Had 6. Blame 7. The Wall 8. Good and Evil 9. Happy Ending 10. The Cage. Written & Produced by Virgil Donati, Tony MacAlpine & Mark Boals. Released: August 23, 2010 (EU) and September 14, 2010 (US).

 

 

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

WHITESNAKE IS PROUD TO PRESENT MICHAEL DEVIN: After months of speculation, Whitesnake are thrilled to announce their new bass player/singer... 35 year old Michael Devin. Recently Michael has been playing with Lynch Mob with new Whitesnake drummer, Brian Tichy. This completes the new Whitesnake line-up & Michael will be featured on their new album, alongside guitarists Doug Aldrich & Reb Beach & keyboardist Timothy Drury. Michael Devin says... "It's an honor to be welcomed into the Whitesnake family. I'm a big fan. Whitesnake is notorious for exciting musicianship, David's history is rich, and I'm very proud to be here." The album is currently being recorded for release on Frontiers Records in early 2011. The band will be also returning to touring in support of the new album's release. An interview with Michael complete with more pictures can be read at www.whitesnake.com.   ROCK CANDY RECORDS DELVES INTO SURVIVOR AND QUIET RIOT: These releases are available immediately from the Rock Candy website (www.rockcandyrecords.com) for a discounted price of £11.99 each ending September 7. Quiet Riot 'III' CANDY079 - 'QR III' is, as the name suggests, Quiet Riot's third album (originally released in 1986) and showcases some major changes, not only musically but also on the personnel front; bassist Rudy Sarzo was replaced by Chuck Wright (from Giuffria). Showcasing a far more mature sound, the band introduced keyboards and featured song writing that suggested that they had finally come of age, relying less on simplistic shout-it-out-loud hooks and more on multiple layers of rich melody with impressive muscle. The arrangements were mature without giving way to syrupy lullabies or saccharin ballads. Sadly, the band's fortunes, through no fault of their own, continued to spiral out of control, resulting in an album that was critically lauded as their best work but one that in purely commercial terms sadly underachieved. In the end, internal unrest resulted in flamboyant front man Kevin Dubrow being asked to leave the band – for many an unthinkable development – signaling the end of a once great institution. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album, full band involvement and additional previously unseen photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Main Attraction 2. The Wild And The Young 3. Twilight Hotel 4. Down And Dirty 5. Rise Or Fall 6. Put Up Or Shut Up 7. Still Of The Night 8. Bass Case 9. The Pump 10. Slave To Love 11. Helping Hands. Quiet Riot 'QR' CANDY080 - The general consensus of opinion about Quiet Riot's career trajectory is that they started off taking a rocket ride to the stars - their debut album sold in excess of ten million copies - only to embarrassingly crash and burn just a few short years later. Commercially speaking that was a true account of the situation, but on a musical level many agree that the band's output was inversely proportional to their chart decline, getting better and more inventive as time moved on. The band's reached their nadir following the release of 'Quiet Riot III', when their outrageous front man Kevin Dubrow was summarily fired from the line-up. They intended to carry on under a new moniker and looked to modify their sound, whilst searching for a replacement vocalist. They quickly settled on ex Rough Cutt singer Paul Shortino, developed a chest thumping blues rock style and met with their record company about recording a new album, only to be told that contractually, and for commercial reasons, they would have to continue using the Quiet Riot name. Despite the odds stacked against them the band's final album, curiously self tiled, originally released in 1988 was a spectacular statement, drinking from the same bluesy well as Whitesnake, Rainbow and Dio. Paul Shortino's vocals are both impressive and effective, whilst the songs are little short of spectacular, leaving nobody in any doubt that had this project been launched as a brand new entity they might well have gained a new lease of life to rival their original success. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album, full band involvement and additional previously unseen photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Stay With Me Tonight 2. Callin' The Shots 3. Run To You 4. I'm Fallin' 5. King Of The Hill 6. The Joker 7. Lunar Obsession 8. Don't Wanna Be Your Fool 9. Coppin' A Feel 10. In A Rush 11. Empty Promises.   xx Survivor 'S/T' CANDY081 - Survivor's huge 1980s hit single 'Eye Of The Tiger' has tended to overshadow the band's body of work, despite them racking up a number of further hits, well known tracks and a string of classic albums. Their brand of melodic yet tough AOR was seen as a central pillar in a wave of hugely successful North American bands; acts such as Journey, Foreigner, REO Speedwagon and Heart were all lighting up the American charts at a time when solid, guitar based rock with enormous hooks and superior vocals was all the rage. No overnight success, Survivor's history, in various forms, dated back to the late sixties, with leader Jim Peterik forging a path to success by a single minded commitment to well written songs, supported by some of the best players he could lay his hands on; vocalist Dave Bickler and guitarist Frankie Sullivan in particular playing a major part in the band's developing sound. This, Survivor's debut album, originally issued in 1980, is an impressive work, containing all the elements that would later provide a springboard to international stardom. The songs are dynamic, richly constructed, well produced (by Ron Nevison of Led Zeppelin, Heart & UFO fame) and combine just the right blend of melody and muscle. Indeed, the track 'Youngblood' has been cited as the prototype for 'Eye Of The Tiger', one of a number of tracks that identify the band as superior craftsmen of a sound that later grew to dominate the American airwaves in the 1980s. A classic sound from a classic band.24-bit remastering from original source tapes, one bonus track, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album, interview with band leader Jim Peterik and additional previously unseen photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Somewhere In America 2. Can't Getcha Offa My Mind 3. Let It Be Now 4. As Soon As Love Finds Me 5. Youngblood 6. Love Has Got Me 7. Whole Town's Talkin' 8. 20/20 9. Freelance 10. Nothing Can Shake Me (From Your Love) 11. Whatever It Takes Bonus Track: 12. Rebel Girl. Survivor 'Premonition' CANDY082 - Recorded in Los Angeles, with a slightly reshuffled line-up, the band was allowed to self produce, thus further enhancing the likelihood that a rougher, more immediate sound could be captured. 'Premonition', originally released in 1981, didn't disappoint, showcasing the band in an upbeat and, dare we say it, far more aggressive mood, harnessing a sound that leaps out of the speakers and wrestles you to the floor with little room for pleasantries. Naturally, the band's greatest asset was still very much in focus; quality songs with hooks and melodies to die for. Tracks such as 'Summer Nights', 'Light Of A Thousand Smiles' (inspired by Journey), 'Poor Man's Son' and the balls-out rocking of 'Chevy Nights' all contain a magical mixture of streamlined efficiency and brutal honesty, resulting in a sound that virtually defined the musical climate. It certainly turned heads; most notably that of Sylvester Stallone who requested the band write a theme song for his upcoming Rocky III movie… No prizes for guessing what came next. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album, interview with band leader Jim Peterik and additional previously unseen photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Chevy Nights 2. Summer Nights 3. Poor Man's Son 4. Runway Lights 5. Take You On A Saturday 6. Light Of A Thousand Smiles 7. Love Is On My Side 8. Hearts A Lonely Hunter.   xx THE H.E.A.T. IS ON FOR NEW VOCALIST ERIK: Swedish Melodic Rock stars H.E.A.T. have announced their new lead singer, replacing the recently departed Kenny Leckremo. And it's a very interesting choice - didn't see this one coming. The new voice of the band is the already much enthused about Erik Grönwall. Erik won Swedish Idol a year or so back and recently released a super-slick high quality modern melodic rock album Somewhere Between a Rock and a Hard Place. The band states: "Erik's voice is made for us. We are very excited and we want YOU to stay tuned for updates on the website about the next chapter in H.E.A.T's history. Great times ahead!" Check Erik out via his solo single Crash & Burn: www.youtube.com/watch?v=fU5UDDZZJLM and his Idol audition of Skid Row's 18 And Life: www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2w3cok19jo.   ERIK MARTENSSON JUST KEEPS ROCKING OUT THE TUNES: Swedish melodic rock all-rounder Erik Martensson (WET, Eclipse) has been in superman mode over the past 12-24 months, providing some of the best the highlights of the melodic hard rock scene in that period. The Eclipse album, the debut W.E.T. project and a bunch of extra songs written for certain projects. And it seems he isn't slowing down anytime soon. As posted on his website about the upcoming Jimi Jamison/Bobby Kimball project - "I've written three tracks for a new project featuring the mighty Toto vocalist Bobby Kimball and Survivor's vocalist Jimi Jamison on vocals. That's something special that I really looking forward to hear the final result. The three tracks are called "Get Back In The Game", "Good Times Are Gone" and "Kicking And Screaming"." Erik added: "And we've started to work on a brand new Eclipse album. We have started to record rough demos for the album but it's high energy Hard Rock in the same style as our latest album "Are You Ready To Rock", but just a little bit better and punchier and...I'm also working hard on the Toby Hitchcock (Pride Of Lions) album. We're recording vocals at the moment. It's gonna be an album that melodic rock fans will fancy." But that's not all. Erik has another band on the go - the utterly sensational power pop outfit The Friday Nights (MySpace website w/audio). The band is already signed to a big UK management deal and has ben working with mega-producer The Flood. Take a listen to the 3 glorious tracks on their MySpace page. It's Working Class Dog for the new millennium! Spot the Light Of Love riff...   LIMITED EDITION INFESTATION RELEASE: The recently talked about Ratt "Live" release is in fact a Japanese exclusive edition of the Infestation release, containing "tunes from the band's rare debut EP Ratt and six live tracks. Includes a bonus DVD with behind-the-scene of the release party of the album held on April 21, 2010, a music video for "Best of Me," and making-of the music video. Also includes a description and lyrics.". Order from the ultra-reliable Japanese supplier: www.cdjapan.co.jp. LATEST AVAILABLE TITLES FROM RETROSPECT RECORDS: Another excellent six-pack of releases are now available from Retrospect Records - www.retrospectrecords.com. The Storm - Sweet Surrender - Holy smokes! Retrospect Records has done it again! For the first time ever on CD comes some of the most sought after recordings on the planet...The Storm! We all know that the best Melodic Rock and AOR was recorded in the 80s and early 90s and this release is no exception. Quite simply, this is a pure AOR masterpiece. Fronted by the golden vocal pipes of Kristina Nichols and complemented very nicely by the talent of keyboardist / vocalist Karen Childs as well as seasoned session musicians Joe Palmeri, Tad Dery and David Logeman, The Storm is a Melodic Rock lovers dream. How this band escaped a major deal is bewildering. Every song is a bonafide hit and a few of these were even covered by other artists of the era including Mark Free. Massive hooks, killer vocals, tasty guitars and plenty of rich keyboard work. I'm sure you will agree this is fantastic material and easily one of the best female-fronted AOR releases ever!! Brickyard - self-titled - Wow - this is another great slice of 80s Melodic Rock / AOR unleashed from the vaults!! Led by Welsh-born Vocalist Mikel Japp, who has written songs for The Babys, Kiss, Michael Des Barres and Bryan Adams , Brickyard was actually a Los Angeles-based band that recorded a slew of songs that have never seen the light of day in CD form...until now. Mikel sounds like the perfect blend of John Waite, Lou Gramm, Steve Overland and Daniel Bowes. The four other members of Brickyard are extremely talented seasoned musicians who knew exactly how to lay down a tight Melodic Rock album with extremely tasty guitar work and a sprinkling of keys...David Logeman, Tad Dery, Luke Thule and Michael Lamper. Very highly recommended to all fans of top-notch classy 80s AOR and bands like: Terraplane, Foreigner, The Babys, Wildlife, FM, Thunder, Signal, Strangeways ETC... Heist - High Heel Heaven +2 - Digitally Remastered with an additional two bonus tracks Heist's "High Heel Heaven" is a killer slice of Hair Metal / Melodic Hard Rock from 1989 that was long overdue for a re-issue. Easily one of the best Melodic Metal bands to ever emerge from the Bay Area, Heist features powerful soaring vocals , memorable hooks, blazing guitars and top-notch musicianship. Essential for all fans and collectors of 80s Hair Metal and especially fans of bands like: Vyper, Black n Blue, Y & T, Hurricane, Malice, Shok Paris, Icon, Weapon, Banshee, Problem Child ETC... Rage N Rox - self-titled - First time ever on CD for this amazing female-fronted 80s Melodic Rock / AOR band. Hailing from Portland Oregon, Rage N Rox features the powerful vocals of Tamara Deems and the impressive array of guitar pyrotechnics from husband Gordy Deems. From driving Melodic Rock to gorgeous AOR ballads, Rage n Rox highlights strong memorable hooks and a perfect blend of guitars and keys, making this almost-forgotten 80s treasure an essential addition to your collection. Very highly recommended to fans of: Vixen, Fiona, Toronto, TinDrum, Aina, Annica, Joanna Dean, Femme Fatale and of course Heart. Where do we keep finding them?? Mars - Metaldrone - There were a lot of overlooked gems in the 80s Metal genre and MARS is definitely one of them. Originally released on vinyl back in 1987 , this Pennsylvania-based band may have been short-lived but produced quite a quality slab of Melodic Metal that has rightly earned a CD release in 2010. All of the 80s elements are here...killer vocals from Jimi Jaymz (who would later join Dirty Looks), razor-sharp guitars and a stomping rhythm section. Very highly recommended to all you underground 80s Metalheads! Amethyst - The Maze Of Destiny - Amethyst formed in Kansas City in 1986 and recorded all of these songs between 1990 & 1992. Heavily influenced by bands like Queensryche and Crimson Glory, Amethyst play Melodic "Thinking-Mans" Metal. Geoff Tate-style vocals and first-class musicianship dominate this exceptional release. First time ever on CD! Retrospect Records has released almost 50 CDs this year. If you missed our press releases then please come visit us at www.retrospectrecords.com and help support Melodic Rock / AOR music - there are a ton of releases to listen to. Thanks!   xxxxxx MELODIC BRIEFS: The new official Jimi Jamison website online now: www.jimijamison.com. Inxs have finally made a decision on a new vocalist - or not. Well, since they couldn't decide, they are using a whole bunch of them, starting with their new single Never Tear Us Apart, featuring Ben Harper. Zzzzz. The band's last website update reads: "As usual, they have broken the mould as they come together with their most favoured artists to completely re-imagine their greatest songs and create one of the most unique albums of all time." Michael Been, the 60-year-old singer of US band The Call, died of an apparent heart attack last Thursday while working as soundman for his son's band, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. Read more: www.dailymail.co.uk. R.I.P. Michael. STARSHIP'S MICKEY THOMAS LEADS MY RECORD FANTASY IN OCTOBER: Starship's vocalist Mickey Thomas is involved in an interesting program that is also being used by Todd Rundergren for his next project. Here's the blurb: "Starship had some of the biggest hits of the '80's and lead singer Mickey Thomas was the voice of those amazing hits. As frontman for Starship, Thomas belted out "We Built This City", "Find Your Way Back", "Sara", "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now", and "Jane" among others. As lead singer of the Elvin Bishop Band he scored a #3 hit in 1976 with "Fooled Around and Fell In Love". Now Starship fans can get into the studio in the making of his new album and have three days of fun, surprises, and living the rock life with a rock legend. Get in the studio for MyRecordFantasy with Starship's Mickey Thomas. Get an up-close, behind-the-scenes look in the making of the new album by one of the biggest hit makers of the 80's. This is a life-changing, once-in-a-lifetime experience you won't want to miss. No Experience Necessary! Oct 18-20, 2010 - Location: The Track Shack Studios, Sacramento, CA. Hurry, Space Is Limited and Early Bird Pricing Ends 9/18/10! Three Days Deluxe 10/18-10/20 – $2,000.00 (Best Value – Save $500!) One Day – Mon 10/18 – $650.00 (Save $200!) One Day – Tue 10/19 – $650.00 (Save $200!) One Day – Wed 10/20 – $800.00 (Save $200!) Regular Pricing: Three Days Deluxe 10/18-10/20 – $2,500.00 One Day – Mon 10/18 – $850.00 One Day – Tue 10/19 – $850.00 One Day – Wed 10/20 – $1,000.00. More details if desired at: www.myrecordfantasy.com/news/2010/08/mickey-thomas-of-starship-is-set-to-rock-myrecordfantasy.   PRIMAL FEAR TOUR DATES & ALL-STAR CLASSIC TOUR: Primal Fear - All Over The World 2010 *special guests: Kissin' Dynamite & Elvenking/ **special guests: Circle II Circle & Marya Roxx 18.09.10 POL - Warschau - Progresja 19.09.10 CZE - Pardubice - Zluty Pes Pardubice 21.09.10 D - Aschaffenburg - Colos Saal* 22.09.10 D - München - Backstage* 23.09.10 D - Köln - Underground* 25.09.10 ITA - Bari - Demode* 26.09.10 ITA - Roma - Black Out* 28.09.10 A - Wörgl - Komma* 29.09.10 D - Nürnberg - Hirsch* 30.09.10 D - Osnabrück - Lageerhalle* 01.10.10 D - Burglengenfeld - VA Zentrum* 02.10.10 D - Bad Arolsen - Outback* 05.10.10 SWE - Stockholm - Gotakollare** 06.10.10 SWE - Gothenburg - Sticky Fingers** 08.10.10 FIN - Tampere - tba** 09.10.10 FIN - Helsinki - Dantes Highlight** 11.10.10 D - Hamburg - Headbangers Ballroom** 12.10.10 FRA - Paris - La Scene Bastille** 13.10.10 FRA - Lyon - Marche Gare** 14.10.10 FRA - Mulhouse - Noumatrouf** 15.10.10 D - Speyer - Halle 101** 04.12.10 BE - Kuume - Frostrock Rock Meets Classic 2011 - with Ian Gillan (Deep Purple), Lou Gramm (Foreigner), Steve Lee (Gotthard), Dan McCafferty (Nazareth). Musical director: Mat Sinner, feat. Amanda Somerville & the Bohemian Symphonic Orchestra Prague. 05.01.2011 D - Frankfurt - Jahrhunderthalle 06.01.2011 CZ - Prague - Telsa Arena 07.01.2011 A - Wien - Stadthalle 08.01.2011 A - Linz - Tip Arena 09.01.2011 D - Nuremberg - Frankenhalle 11.01.2011 D - Passau - Dreiländerhalle 12.01.2011 D - Bamberg - JAKO Arena 13.01.2011 D - Kempten - Big Box 14.01.2011 CH - Genf - Arena 15.01.2011 CH - Sursee - Stadthalle 16.01.2011 CH - Zurich - Kongresshaus 18.01.2011 CH - Basel - Congress Center 20.01.2011 D - Regensburg - Donau Arena 21.01.2011 D - Aschaffenburg - Frankenstolz Arena 22.01.2011 D - Halle/Westfalen - Gerry Weber Stadion 23.01.2011 D - Berlin - Tempodrom MASTERS OF METAL UNITE FOR SOBRIETY: Chicago, IL- August 23, 2010 - The new dynamic Duo of Rock, twin brothers legally named Rock Star & Super Star, have teamed up with legendary musicians to create "Serenity," the first metal CD dedicated to conveying the importance of sobriety. Rock Star & Super Star have tapped Grammy Award-winning producer Bob Kulick to help them create and produce this unique project. Members from Kiss, Heart, Goo Goo Dolls, The Runaways, Trans-Siberian Orchestra and many other bands also participated. "We invited many of our childhood music heroes to collaborate on this project, and they embraced it because they believe in the cause," said Super Star, who conceived of the CD as part of his recovery from substance abuse. "The fact that we were able to successfully recruit so many icons of metal will help us bring visibility to the story we're telling." "Serenity," which has taken nearly two years to complete, will see a digital release September 1, just in time to kick off National Recovery Month. A physical release date for the CD will be announced later this fall. A sample of some of the songs has now been posted online and can be heard at: www.reverbnation.com/rockstarsuperstarproject. "Our goal with the CD is to send a strong message that living a life without drugs and alcohol is the only way to achieve your dreams," said Rock Star. "Since we know there are kids who would rather listen to music than read a book, we are using music to reach them in the language they understand." Joining the fight via guest appearances on the CD are music icons including Cherie Currie (Runaways), Stevie Rachelle, (Tuff), George Lynch (Dokken, Lynch Mob), Chris Caffery (Savatage, Trans-Siberian Orchestra), Carlos Cavazo (Quiet Riot, Ratt), Mark Slaughter (Slaughter), Zak Stevens (Savatage, Circle Ii Circle), Jon Oliva (Savatage, Trans-Siberian Orchestra), Bruce Kulick (Kiss, Union), Howard Leese (Heart), Bob Kulick (Meat Loaf), Lorraine Lewis (Ex-Femme Fatale, Roktopuss), David Schultz (Goo Goo Dolls, Berlin), Veronica Freeman (Benedictum), Ted Poley (Danger Danger), Todd La Torre (Crimson Glory) and of course Rock Star aka Marc Kancler (Guitars) and Super Star aka Kris Kancler (Drums) and many more. Rock Star & Super Star: for these Stars, everything is brilliantly illuminated! For more information, please visit www.rockstarsuperstarproject.com. JOE LYNN TURNER TO HELP ORGANIZE FESTIVAL ON TURKEY'S "GOLD COAST" IN 2011: (Antayla, Turkey) While vacationing in Antayla, Turkey this summer, some Turkish businesspeople approached Joe Lynn Turner with the idea of presenting a major rock music festival in or near the city sometime in 2011. Turner agreed that this was a great concept. While the festival is only in the "idea stage" at this time, Joe helped lay the groundwork for it by visiting with Mayor Mustafa Akaydin of Antalya. Akaydin said that the municipality should support the organization of such a festival. He stated, "Famous artists coming to the city will favorably promote both Turkey and the city. We already stage events to boost the city's cultural and artistic reputation. It will make us very happy to do this." "Antalya is a 'Gold Coast' of international holiday destinations," says Turner, "They have over 300 five star resorts in or near the area and are still building. Over 32 nations come here for vacations so this region seems like a great fit for a large scale music festival." He explains that the event would feature a mix of international and Turkish rock musicians. Although there is no definite date yet, Turner mentioned the possibility of holding the festival in May 2011. Joe describes his role as "The celebrity face of the project, working with government and sponsors. This will be a very big project and the work will be hard but worth the effort. We hope it is a big success! We have government support and the sponsors will give full support as well!" Major international artists and/or companies interested in participating in or contributing to in this festival should email Joe Lynn Turner's Executive Assistant, Lisa Walker: LisaWalker@ToTheMax1.com. FRAZE GANG RELEASE NEW SINGLE: Fraze Gang have just released their latest single "Juggernaut" and is now available worldwide on iTunes & CD Baby. It will also soon be available on Amazon and all other major outlets. Once again recorded by Wayne Berge & mixed by the legendary Beau Hill the band are very proud of the results & can't wait for all Frz Gng fans to sink their teeth into it. To order 'Juggernaut' from iTunes click here. To order 'Juggernaut' from CD Baby click here. (Album note from CD Baby) - "Fraze Gang return with a special non-LP track called "Juggernaut" mixed and mastered by hard rock legend Beau Hill. Fraze Gang is the sonic brainchild of guitarist/vocalist Greg Fraser, best known as the songwriter/guitarist behind 80s hair metal band Brighton Rock. Together with bassist Stevie Skreebs (also ex-Brighton Rock) and powerhouse drummer Phil Epp - they are keeping the Rock flame burning."   ULI JON ROTH'S SKY ACADEMY 2011: Uli Jon Roth's Sky Academy Los Angeles is now confirmed. 3 days of teaching and insight by guitar legend Uli Jon Roth. Date: January 20, 21 & 22. Location: Santa Monica Playhouse, Santa Monica, CA. This years Uli will take his Sky Academy to new heights! Focusing on both the musician and non-musician. Updates will come soon! To register please visit: www.sky-academy.net/registration.html. Legendary Guitarist Uli Jon Roth's Sky Academy was conceived by Uli to provide knowledge and inspiration to those who take guitar seriously and to help them reach a new plateau. The seminars are designed to open people's eyes to new possibilities and to trigger an awakening of the student's full awareness. The philosophy and approach of Sky Academy is consistent with the ideals of its founder, Uli Jon Roth. The teaching will center on achieving the student's transition to a noticeably higher level of ability. This includes raising their general and specific musical awareness, as well as facilitating an increase in their technical abilities. The participants will be able to receive invaluable direct insights into the way Uli approaches the art of guitar playing, as well as concerning his philosophy of music in general. WebLink: www.sky-academy.net. SINCH REVEALS PLANS FOR FIRST "FAN FUNDED" ALBUM: After a major record deal, countless U.S. tours and a highly-successful debut album, Sinch has cemented itself as one of the most innovative artists of the 1990s. Today, nearly seven years since their departure from Roadrunner Records and a brief stint with indie label Rock Ridge Music, Sinch continues to reinvent itself …only this time they're doing it all on their own. Currently working on their first album in nearly five years, Sinch is literally taking matters into their own hands and they're inviting their fans to help. The band, who has always found ways to personally connect with their audience, is not only soliciting feedback on their new material, they're actually asking their fans to help finance it as well. Kicking off their "fan funded album" project with a simple message on its web site asking fans for donations, the group has since launched an entire page dedicated to the program and in the process raised close $12,000. "We've been down the label road a couple different times and a couple different ways (major vs. indie) and we finally decided to get back to what's important: making music that we're excited about and getting it out to our fans," said lead vocalist Jamie Stem. Sinch's mission is to raise $20,000 for the recording, producing and manufacturing of the album, a goal that they are confident that they can reach within the next few months. Structuring the program so that fans can donate as little as $10.00 or as much as $5,000.00, the band believes that the "fan funded album" not only allows its audiences to be more engaged with the music but also offers the opportunity for them to be a part of a huge milestone for the band. Sponsors also receive bonuses that other fans aren't eligible for, including free MP3s, signed finished CDs, limited edition posters and T-shirts and for those paying top dollar ($5,000.00+), autographed gear, including cymbals, guitars and more, and a credit on the CD as "Executive Producer." "At one time it would have been really hard to record an album without signing with a label but that's not the case anymore," said drummer Dan McFarland. "We've been playing music and putting out albums for over 15 years now. We've put stuff out on major labels, on indie labels and even on our own but when we stop and ask ourselves what we really want to do the answer is pretty simple: We want to keep making music, have fun doing it and get it out to everyone who wants to hear it." Sinch's new album is scheduled for an early Spring 2011 release. For more information about the band visit www.Sinch.net. For information about the "fan funded album," visit: contribute.sinch.net. DANTE FOX NEWS AND UPDATES: "Hi everyone just thought we would give you an update on Dante Fox and our plans at the moment. Dante Fox are currently writing and demoing songs for the long awaited follow up to "Under The Seven Skies" released by Frontiers Records in 2007. Some of the basic tracks have been recorded and drum tracks and lead vocals will be recorded at Mad Hat Studio's in Wolverhampton with our good friends Mark and Sheena in the next few months. Working titles include Who stole the innocence, Secret Photograph, The Message. and a Ten Minute epic that promises to be the "emotional rollercoaster" of the album with balladic moments, de-tuned guitars and more guitar riffage than any other Dante Fox song. Joining vocalist Sue Willetts is of course guitar player Tim Manford and our good friend on drums Andy Perfect. Other news is that we have sadly parted company with Roman Wieckowski keyboards, guitar and backing vocals, but our exciting news is that we will be joined on this album by US keyboard player Eric Ragno (Ted Poley, China Blue, White Sister etc) who will be playing keyboards on all the new tracks and guest vocalist Lee Small (Shy, Phenomena) who will be featured on both lead and backing vocals. As some of you know Sue Willetts and Tim Manford have had the privilege of joining Bob Harris on the ballad Still in Your Heart on the much acclaimed Shinning Line album and we welcome any further opportunities to work with other artists and collaborations. Talking about Lee Small some other exciting news is that Sue Willetts been involved in something new and really different supplying three songs on Lee Small's new project "Vampire Zoo" which is a "Jeff Wayne "Style musical audio book written and recorded by Vocalist Lee Small. Sue is the singing voice of the character "Storm" and is featured on Ashes 2 Ashes, Lifeblood and Ultraviolet. Please visit www.myspace.com/leesmall to hear the 10 minute trailer. Our final piece of news is the parting of company with the bass playing contribution to the current line up Mike Dagnall, news with regards to who will be joining us in this capacity and more will follow shortly, and we are pleased that we are finally able to move swiftly into a new and exciting period of Dante Fox." ABUSED ROMANCE UNLEASH NEW SINGLE AND TOUR DATES w/ NONPOINT AND EGYPT CENTRAL: Los Angeles based melodic rockers Abused Romance have just premiered "Vaporize," a new single from their forthcoming debut album, Shine. Like the album, "Vaporize" was produced by Justin Gray (Econoline Crush, Inxs) and mixed by Randy Staub (U2, Alice In Chains). The band features Meir Yaniv (Vocals, Guitar), Amit Ofir (Guitar), Roy Chen (Drums) and Aetam Jakob (Bass). Amit (the guitar player in the band) and I grew up together and started playing guitar together at the age of 13." Meir reveals. "Amit introduced me to Metallica, and from there I knew that creating and performing music is my calling. We formed our first band together at the age of 14 and co wrote songs. After becoming local L.A. club favorites, Abused Romance hooked up with Freeway Entertainment, which was formed by Russ Regan (former president of Motown Records), and general partner Kent Jacobs (Police, Kiss, Prince, REM) in August of 2009. Abused Romance have also revealed a new slew of tour dates that find the band supporting veteran Florida hard rockers Nonpoint. "Abused Romance live is a whole different experience than listening to the album. It is an amazing energy and love exchange between us and the audience, because all we see is people's physical reactions, we feed off of that and push it back to them constantly throughout the show. We're as real, as powerful and as raw as we can possibly be onstage to create truthful moments with the crowd. It feels like it is our purpose in life when we are up there" offers guitarist Ofir. The quartet will be releasing Shine, via Freeway Records/Universal Music Group, in the Fall. Check out "Vaporize" here: soundcloud.com/musicquizking/vaporize.   CASANOVA "ONE NIGHT STAND" RE-ISSUE: Following up on our hugely successful reissue of Casanova's debut album Dive Bomb Records are now happy to present the deluxe edition of their second album, One Night Stand, available 9/14/10. This deluxe edition has once again been remastered by Jamie King and we have added not only 5 bonus tracks, but archival pictures provided by bassist, Jochen Mayer. This is a must have for all Casanova fans worldwide! - Features former members of Warlock and Mad Max - Contains 5 bonus tracks - Out of print for years/original version highly collectible - Never released in the U.S. before now - Limited Edition of 1000 (CD Only) - All tracks remastered in 2010 by Jamie King. Track List: 01 Guns Say Fire 02 Ticket To The Moon 03 I'll Come Runnin' 04 Love's Crashin' Down 05 The X-tra Mile 06 One Of These Days 07 Wake Up! 08 Home Is Where The Heart Is 09 The Doctor Is In 10 Dead Man's Hand 11 Seal It With A Kiss Bonus Tracks: 13 Here Comes That Feeling 14 Judy 15 I Believe In You 16 Out Of The Blue 17 Seal It With A Kiss (Acoustic). Free Shipping within the United States for all Pre-Orders placed before album street date of 9/14/2010. Link: tribunalrecords.bigcartel.com/category/divebomb-records. GUITARIST LOOKING FOR REPRESENTATION: Christian rock guitarist Gary Bailey is recording his debut CD and is looking for label and management. Please contact at: gbailey70@verizon.net. Back in 2001, Bailey was asked to audition for Limp Bizkit, Chuck Burgi and RnB artist Musiq. In 2004 Bailey won the Guitararregoddon contest for the Philadelphia region. He has opened or performed with Eric Lopez, Sonicflood, Salvador and Michelle Bonilla. Gary Bailey plays instrumental guitar worship music. His guitar style and sound is in the vein of Neal Schon, Steve Lukather and Carlos Santana. NIKKI DIMAGE TALKS LINE OF FIRE, BEATING CANCER, AND MOMENTUM: Line of Fire guitarist Nikki Dimage checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about their brand new studio album Momentum; how he's doing after beating cancer; the behind the scenes videos they made to depict the 'making of' Momentum; why they covered Dokken's Breaking the Chains and the arrangement of the cover; upcoming tour plans; and a whole lot more. To hear the interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/nikki-dimage-of-line-of-fire.

 

 

Monday, August 23, 2010

FROM TOM GALLEY THE CREATOR OF PHENOMENA - BLIND FAITH: Escape Music is proud to announce the release of much anticipated new album from Tom Galley the creator of Phenomena, titled Blind Faith on September 24. The album features countless renowned musicians like Mike DeMeo (Riot & Masterplan), Rob Moratti & Ian Crichton (Saga), Tony Martin (Black Sabbath) Ralf Scheepers & Mat Sinner (Primal Fear), Mikael Erlandsson (Salute & Last Autumn's Dreams), Chris Ousey (Heartland), Steve Overland (Overland, FM), Terry Brock (Giant & Strangeways) and many more! People should learn to expect a little awe and mystery. Phenomena takes us upon a journey where there is nothing pretty about the protagonists of the story that we shall meet along the way. The subject is good against evil. The story began in the year 1983, when Tom Galley wrote a couple of short stories with a transcendental background. Backed by record label Bronze, the recordings for the album "Phenomena" started soon which finally hit the stores in 1985. Besides the extra-ordinary concept story both musicianship and the names involved with the project are highlights to mention. Names such as Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, HTP), drum legend Cozy Powell (Rainbow, Whitesnake a.o.), Don Airey (Deep Purple), Neil Murray (Whitesnake) – the elite of the British Hard Rock scene had joined the project. "Phenomena" received high critical acclaim in the press and is now continuing their story with "Blind Faith". Release date: 24th September. Track Listing & Vocalists: The Sky Is Falling - Mike Dimeo: (Riot & Masterplan) Lead Vocals / Stefan Lindholm (Vindictiv & Firecracker) Lead Guitars Blind Faith - Rob Moratti: (Saga & Final Frontier) Lead Vocals / Ian Crichton: (SAGA) Guitars Fighting - Ralf Scheepers: (Primal Fear) Lead Vocals / Mat Sinner: (Primal Fear) Bass Liar - Tony Martin: (Black Sabbath) Lead Vocals / Stefan Lindholm (Vindictiv & Firecracker) Lead Guitars I Was Gonna Tell You Tonight – Robin Beck (Solo) Lead Vocals Angels Don't Cry - Mikael Erlandsson : (Salute & Last Autumn's Dreams) Lead Vocals If You Love Her – Chris Ousey (Heartland) Lead Vocals / Tommy Denander - Guitars House Of Love - Rob Moratti: (Saga & Final Frontier) Lead Vocals Don't Ever Give Your Heart Away - Steve Overland: (Overland, Shadowman, FM) Lead Vocals One More Chance - Terry Brock: (Strangeways & Giant & Solo) Lead Vocals / Steve Newman Guitars And Backing Vocals Download this 2 minute preview track - If You Love Her. Other Musicians: Martin Kronlund: (Salute & Gypsy Rose) Guitars, and Bass; Jim Kirkpatrick: (FM) Guitars; Imre Daun: (Salute, Don Patrol) - Drums and Percussion; Dan Helgesen - Keyboards and Hammond; Henrik Thomsen: (Hope) Bass. Produced by: Tom Galley; Recorded and engineered by Martin Kronlund.   TERRY ILOUS & PAUL SHORTINO BAIL OUT GREAT WHITE: Los Angeles, Calif, Jack Russell, lead singer of the multi-platinum and Grammy-nominated rock band Great White, is recovering from major surgery after suffering a perforated bowel. Russell is expected to recover in six to eight weeks. Singer Terry Ilous of XYZ has stepped in to replace Russell at lead vox. Great White continues to receive positive feedback from audiences and promoters from its three shows in Southern California this past weekend. The remaining dates on Great White's 25th Anniversary Tour will go on as scheduled, and can be viewed at www.greatwhiterocks.com. The Great White family extends its thanks to the entire Great White fan community and appreciates prayers and well wishes as Russell recovers. "We at Stockholm Rock Out wishes Jack all the best and hope for a speedy recovery, really sad that this has happened but both Stockholm Rock Out and Great White wants to do this the best way possible. Management and Great White have been working hard for the past 24h to do something special at our festival, all our respect and love to Terry Ilous but since he attended the first Rock Out with XYZ on May 1st we felt that something different would be cool, something no one would expect. We are PROUD to announce that at Stockholm Rock Out on September 11, Great White will do a ONE time only European performance with the legendary singer Paul Shortino (Quiet Riot, Rough Cutt and the recently re-united King Kobra) Paul is REALLY excited to do his first EVER show in Sweden on September 11, this night will be something special and its a one time only show. And who knows, they might even throw in a couple of surprises..." TED POLEY HEADS TO SWEDEN: Speaking of the Stockholm Rock Out Festival - Ted Poley is performing in a solo capacity for the event's October 16 date with Wasp, Kix, Steelheart and more. Says Ted: "This will be a TP solo show featuring my brand new live band that I have assembled for 2011 solo touring which includes Doug Odell - bass, Paul Laplaca - keys & rhythm guitar, Steve Mazza - Lead guitar, and Dennis Leeflang - Drums. I believe there will hopefully be a special guest or two joining me onstage, one very well known to the mr.com fans with the initials T.D.!!" And don't forget Ted will finally hit Australia for two exclusive dates. Tickets from venues: Melbourne - November 10th, Corner Hotel Sydney - November 13th, Live At The Wall

 

 

FREE DOWNLOAD! MelodicRock Records will release the new album "317" from Fenrik Lane on September 17 (Shipping September 10 for pre-orders). Purchase full album from: www.melodicrockrecords.com/store But today it is all about sharing some of the modern melodic rock brilliance of this album with the free download of the Fenrik Lane - MelodicRockRecords EP. Containing 5 of the album's great tracks and the bonus Russian Roulette video clip. PLEASE SHARE THIS EP! Distribute, upload, copy, giveaway, download, share....enjoy! Download: "317" MRR EP 01. Megalomania 02. Call Her Name 03. Cover Your Eyes 04. Hot Lips 05. Going Nowhere Russian Roulette (Video) EP Artwork     Fenrik Lane originate from Bergen, Norway. This magnificent record contains powerful modern rock and energetic pop. The band has experimented with creative arrangements, and the outcome is an exceptional recording with a unique and rich sound. The album also includes an intense rock-version of Rihanna's Russian Roulette.   xx Fenrik Lane are: Knut Glesnes - Lead Vocals, Guitar; Christer Unneland - Drums, Backing Vocals; John Erik Soltvedt - Bass, Backing Vocals, Piano.     Track Listing for "317": 01) Megalomania 02) Call Her Name 03) Diamonds In The Waste 04) Paranoia 05) Runaway Car 06) Cover Your Eyes 07) Left Me Scarred 08) Hot Lips 09) Bulletproof 10) Hello 11) Going Nowhere 12) Hate How You Say Goodbye 13) Sun Explodes 14) Russian Roulette WebLinks: www.fenriklane.com / www.myspace.com/fenriklane / www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pZCXkskOkI / www.melodicrockrecords.com. Release Dates: September 10 (pre-orders), September 17 (in-stores, CD). Pre-Orders available now (see below).

 

 

Thursday, August 19, 2010

FENRIK LANE EP OVERPOWERS SITE SERVER: Apologies for a lack of service during the night local time. It seems that in light of the Fenrik Lane EP download, my server was hit with force beyond its capacity, sending the whole system offline. If you are yet to get a chance to download the tunes - we're back on order today. AERO-TYLER IDOL?: Another badly kept secret now seems a formality - "While Fox officially says "no comment," a very-inside music source confirms the flamboyant Aerosmith singer finalized negotiations late last week and is officially signed on to be a judge on the 10th season of "American Idol." Oh dear! What do you think folks? Great for rock n roll or a potential circus? JACK RUSSELL RECOVERING FROM SURGERY: Jack Russell, lead singer of the multi-platinum and Grammy-nominated rock band Great White, is recovering from major surgery after suffering a perforated bowel (a medical emergency in which a hole in the bowel opens to allow its contents to empty into the rest of the abdominal cavity). The surgery left Russell with a colostomy bag. Doctors are confident that this procedure is temporary. Russell remains hospitalized in Southern California, and his condition is improving. "It was touch-and-go for about 48 hours whether or not he was going to live," manager Obi Steinman said. "He's been in the hospital for several days, and he's doing a lot better." Russell is the singer behind such hits as "Once Bitten Twice Shy", "Rock Me", "Angel" and "Save All Your Love". He faces another operation, but he was in good spirits today. "I've felt better, but I've felt a hell of a lot worse," he said in a statement. "Nothing is going to keep me down. This whole thing definitely makes me appreciate life more than I ever have." Russell is expected to recover in six to eight weeks. More at: www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=144680. SWITCHBLADE SUICIDE GET KISS OPENING SLOT: MANSFIELD, MA (August 7, 2010) - Boston-based rockers Switchblade Suicide opened for rock legends Kiss at Comcast Center in Mansfield, MA, playing a blistering 4-song set, opening with "Stronger", off of their new EP "Japanese Release" (available on iTunes & CDBaby.com). Frontman Dennis Vasconcelos thanked the fans, Guitar Center, & Kiss for the honor of opening the Boston area's "Hottest Show on Earth". "We want to thank everyone that voted for us because if it wasn't for you, we wouldn't be here right now", he said to the Boston area KISS faithful. Switchblade Suicide was #1 in the voting out of 150 local bands that entered the KISS/Guitar Center Opening Act Competition (Boston Area), selected based on their excellent musicianship, solid commercial viability & marketability, and a genre of music that Kiss embodies. The reaction from the crowd supported their selection, as from beginning to end, Switchblade Suicide's music was met with resounding, enthusiastic applause after every song. In a recent interview with Chris Kazarian of the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, Switchblade Suicide guitarist Geoff Jewett spoke about leveraging this experience to take the band & their music to the next level; "We don't want to be a band that gets an opportunity like this and just disappears or rests on our laurels. This is a chance for us to take it to a different level." Switchblade Suicide's next show is on Friday, August 27th when they rock out at Copperfield's in Boston, MA. For information: www.switchbladesuicide.com. REDESIGNED AND FORMATTED - ALL PENS BLAZING: A ROCK & HEAVY METAL WRITER'S HANDBOOK VOLUME I: Ever wondered what it takes to be a heavy metal journalist? In this comprehensive collection, Neil Daniels has interviewed a staggering 65 of the world's most successful writers of heavy metal and hard rock. Many of these writers are successful biographers, editors and long-standing freelancers who have interviewed some of the genre's leading artists from KISS to Metallica and Black Sabbath to Slayer. They've travelled the world over, lived in tour buses, got drunk with their idols, attended some of the greatest gigs in history and are still alive to tell the tale. It's all here; the wild stories, the anecdotes…and the advice! All Pens Blazing offers a potted history of the genre as well as the publishing industry from the legendary Sounds and Melody Maker to metal bibles Kerrang! and Metal Hammer to modern day magazines like Terrorizer, Powerplay and Classic Rock. There's also a wealth of information on fanzines and webzines as well as long-gone magazines like Metal Forces, RIP and RAW. With a foreword by the Canadian metal historian Martin Popoff, this collection makes essential reading for the heavy metal fan. It is also a worthy historical document for the serious enthusiast and can be used as a handy reference tool for the aspiring metal writer. Volume I (foreword by Martin Popoff) is 350 pages and features 65 interviews: Jeff Apter/Gavin Baddeley/Bailey Brothers/Geoff Barton/Carl Begai/Mark Blake/Jerry Bloom/Dante Bonutto/Paul Brannigan/Louise Brown/Garry Bushell/Brett Callwood/Steffan Chirazi/Ian Christe/Carol Clerk/Dave Dickson/Malcolm Dome/John Doran/Paul Elliott/Jerry Ewing/Mike Exley/Dave Ferris/Lonn Friend/Joe Geesin/Ian Gittins/Ian Glasper/Tim Henderson/Mark Hoaksey/Seb Hunter/Neil Jeffries/Howard Johnson/Tim Jones/Dom Lawson/Dave Lewis/Dave Ling/Peter Makowski/Matthias Madder/Joe Matera/Joel McIver/Bruce Mee/Mick Mercer/Alexander Milas/Ben Myers/Derek Oliver/Daniela Pilic/Martin Popoff/Greg Prato/Dave Reynolds/Steven Rosen/Xavier Russell/Jonathan Selzer/Joe Shooman/Brian Slagel/Joseph Stannard/Paul Suter/Adem Tepedelen/Everett True/John Tucker/Tommy Udo/Clinton Walker/Chris Welch/Stirling Whitaker/Rich Wilson/Jeb Wright/Henry Yates. WebLink: www.authorsonline.co.uk/book/786/All_Pens_Blazing/paperback/ MELODIC BRIEFS: Slash and band are back in US recording live iTunes performance today in LA. Pekka Rautiainen has his Secret Isle album available now at ITunes: itunes.apple.com/fi/album/falling-for-you/id387005280?i=387005377&ign-mpt=uo%3D4. British Metal vocalist and frontman Andy Pyke has left Marshall Law! After a period of reflection Andy is now looking for a new challenge/band/project and is ready to consider any offers out there in the metalworld, preferably a named band seeking Vocalist/ Frontman. Any interested parties should contact in the first instance Andy's Management at info@lycanmedia.co.uk.

 

 

Friday, August 20, 2010

FIREWORKS #41 OUT NOW: The latest 96 page, full colour issue of Fireworks Magazine is now out and available from all the usual sources as well as being on sale for the first time in numerous WHSmith stores (check listing on www.rocktopia.net for full listing of participating stores). Issue #41 has 28 interviews including features with Slash, Joe Elliot, Glenn Hughes, Thin Lizzy, Accept, Heart, Peter Frampton, Enuff Z'Nuff, Stan Bush, Grand Illusion, Shining Line, Third Eye Blind, RPWL, Venice, Little Caeser, John Norum, MASS, Angeline, Sister Sin, Haken, Taz Taylor, 8 Point Rose, Xoch, Furyon, Tony Harnell and much more! Also cram-packed with CD, DVD and live reviews. Comes with FREE CD featuring 18 acts, including Terry Brock, Bronz, First Signal, 8 Point Rose, Stan Bush, China, Salute, Sister Sin, Angeline, Xoch and many more! Anybody buying an issue of the magazine will find a code which allows them to download an extra 18 page PDF of content, including articles on bands such as H.e.a.t, and Jettblack, along with a listening report on the launch of Iron Maiden's new 'Final Frontier' album! All this for £4.99 plus £1.20 P&P (UK), £2.50 P&P (Europe), £4.50 P&P (Rest of World). Available mail order from www.rocktopia.net, or send cheque/PO (UK only) payable to 'Bruce Mee' and send to: Fireworks Magazine, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5XD. Or PayPal direct to: fireworks.mag@ntlworld.com. Extracts from the Glenn Hughes, Joe Elliott and Thin Lizzy interviews are available from www.rocktopia.net along with the FULL articles on Bachman & Turner, Taz Taylor and a classic Dio interview from 1990 as a tribute. PDF Download version of Fireworks 41 exclusive to melodicrock.com available next week! Free CD Track Listing: 1. Terry Brock – Jessie's Gone 2. 8 Point Rose – Resolve 3. Bronz – Can't Live Without Your Love 4. First Signal – When You Believe 5. Xoch – Winter in Hollywood 6. Salute – Higher 7. Wheels of Fire – You're So Cool 8. China – She's So Hot 9. Sister Sin – 24/7 10. Silent Victory – Ain't No Shame in Crying 11. Angeline – Pray! 12. Stan Bush – Never Hold Back 13. Broken Melody – Return Denied 14. Final Gravity – Let Go (Radio Edit) 15. Nil Durden – Find a Way 16. Pictorial Wand – The Ghosts Start Dancing 17. First Child – What Are We Fighting For 18. Taz Taylor Band – Viper.   TORNADO RELIEF CONCERT FEATURING "VOICES OF ROCK RADIO": On June 5, 2010, a series of tornadoes hit several towns in a rural area 100 miles southwest of Chicago. Touchdowns in Peoria, Streator, Dwight, Elmwood and Kankakee left behind flattened homes, downed power lines and, in one instance, a derailed train. The communities affected by the devastation were left with the task of rebuilding their homes, their lives and their well being. Kevin Chalfant, a long time resident of Streator is answering the call for aid. The storms of that night affected a number of good family friends and his beloved community. His plan? To hold an all star concert to support rebuilding efforts and counseling needed to cope with losses. Currently, Kevin Chalfant is a member of Voices of Rock Radio, a group of national recording artists who tour together. He is a former lead singer for The Storm and was instrumental in the Alan Parsons Live Project and Shooting Star. He has earned a BMI award and Chicago Music Award and the devotion of fans around the world. The forthcoming benefit concert is Kevin's call to action for all to support the cause! Several companies have pulled together to form a force in bringing relief to these communities. Horseshoe Casino and Talent Concepts Inc., along with Clique Productions and Dream Machines Car Club, are set to hold an all star benefit concert at The Venue (777 Casino Center Drive in Hammond, Indiana) on Saturday, September 4th to support rebuilding efforts and counseling needed to cope with losses. The Voices of Rock Radio will be donating their time performing at The Venue, a 2500 seat theater. Jimi Jamison (famous for several hits including "Eye Of The Tiger," Cant Hold Back, and "High On You"), Derek St. Holmes (vocalist and guitarist for the Ted Nugent Band known for such hits as "Cat Scratch Fever," "Stranglehold" and "Hey Baby"), Wally Palmar (lead singer for The Romantics who had a #1 hit with "What I Like About You" along with other hit singles such as "Talking In Your Sleep") and John Cafferty (who, along with The Beaver Brown Band, is best known for the #1 hits "On The Dark Side" and "C.I.T.Y." that were recorded for the popular 1983 movie, Eddie and the Cruisers) will be performing with Kevin Chalfant. Together they present an energetic concert filled with hit songs they made famous! In addition to seeking corporate sponsors for the benefit, the website www.TornadoBenefit.com has been launched for individual donations. It contains photos of some of the devastation, information about the concert, and an area where you can make a donation. Kevin is optimistic that, with the support of local corporations and citizens, the proceeds from the concert can bring some relief to the community. Tickets -- which are $30, $40, $50 and $75 (only 100 "Golden Circle" tickets that include a pre-show meet and greet) -- are available by calling The Venue at Horseshoe Hammond box office at 219-473-6060 or by calling Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000. Tickets are also available online via the Ticketmaster website at www.ticketmaster.com. A limited number of VIP Suites will also be available for the show (630-373-3689). The Venue will open at 6:00pm for Golden Circle ticket holders for the pre-show meet and greet. Other guests of the show can arrive beginning at 7:00pm for the 8:00pm show. Please watch the attached video to see just how great a show Voices of Rock Radio puts on! For further information, please contact Deanna Lombardo at 630-373-3689 or visit the following websites: www.TornadoBenefit.com /www.voicesofrockradio.com / www.myspace.com/kevinchalfant / www.facebook.com/pages/Kevin-Chalfant/124217086915.   INTRODUCING SINAI: Sinai is a band staring into the face of modern rock music and flipping it the middle finger. Born from the uniquely talented minds of lead guitarist and songwriter Nick Perri (Silvertide, Perry Farrell, Shinedown, Matt Sorum), singer Tyler Gurwicz (The Urgency) and drummer Shane Rozum (Jealousy Curve), SINAI is three big personalities meeting on stage to throw down, and give modern rock a shot in the arm. From the very first note of their first song, this reality seems inevitable. Their undeniable, original sound is as fresh and modern as it is classic and timeless. The trio's music howls with a spellbinding mix of ferocity and aggression. Long time A&R executive and multiplatinum record producer David Bendeth stated recently of Gurwicz's voice, "[He] is the best real singer I've heard in years and years". This, combined with Perri's infamous stage presence and dedication to being the best lead guitarist in the land, makes for an unparalleled team. Add to that Rozum's driving power, faultless timing, and beat hammering into the equation, and you have a band that is the breath of fresh air rock music has been waiting for. Perri chose his boyhood home of Philadelphia as ground zero for his new project. "The fans know the difference, when you're faking it and when it comes from the heart. There is nothing posed about this project. It's brutal honesty, just like Philly," he said. "The spirit of this town and the heart of this city is in my bones." With a history as deep as his, Sinai already has a leg up on the competition. Being in bands that have sold over 13 million records Perri has acquired a loyal fan base in almost every country around the world. "We're ready for Japan and Germany, the US and the UK…and they're ready for us. We just need to get re-exposed." "We want to remix a bunch of stuff and send it out on the dance floors in Europe," Perri said. "We want to write songs that crossover and grab the attention and hearts of fans of all genres of music. We're not writing music for ourselves. We could stay home and do that. We write music for the world to enjoy...and get off on."   SATCH HEADS INTO THE WORMHOLE: Joe Satriani, one of rock music's most renowned electric guitarists, has announced that his highly anticipated 14th studio album Black Swans and Wormhole Wizards is to be released in the UK on Monday October 4th by Epic records. The album release dovetails Satch's autumn UK tour, which kicks off on October 17th at the Manchester Apollo. Click here to read the album press release: www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/JoeSatriani/album.htm. Joe Satriani has been a worldwide guitar hero since his 1987 breakthrough album, "Surfing With The Alien". Over 10-million albums sales, 15 Grammy nominations and numerous accolades later, Joe continues to push the envelope of modern rock guitar playing. In 2009 Satriani teamed up with Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony of Van Halen plus Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers) to form Chickenfoot. Their debut album became a global hit and received gold awards in the US, Canada and Europe, while Classic Rock Magazine voted them Best New Band of 2009.   METAL MIND PRODUCTIONS ANNOUNCE THE RELEASE OF NEW STUDIO ALBUM OF THE LEGENDARY TANK - WAR MACHINE: Tank - featuring Mick Tucker and Cliff Evans on guitar alongside three new recruits, ex-Rainbow/Yngwie Malmsteen frontman Doogie White, ex-Bruce Dickinson bassist Chris Dale and ex-Zodiac Mindwarp drummer Dave 'Grav' Cavill - are back in action and ready to establish themselves once more as one of Britain's finest rock bands. The band's seventh studio album is currently in the pre-production stage and, as the band claims: we think it's going to be our best album so far. The production was handled by Pedro Ferreira (known from his previous work with The Darkness, Therapy?, Meatloaf) and the recording was done at Steve Harris' (Iron Maiden) Barnyard Studios. A demo version of one of their new songs, "Judgement Day", is still available to stream on Tanks official website on MySpace: www.myspace.com/tankheavymetal. Due to the changed line-up, War Machine will combine all the influences and experience of individual band members. Cliff Evans: We intend to make this a classic British rock/metal album that every fan should have in their collection. Full details on the artwork and track list to be announced soon. Metal Mind Productions set up the release date of War Machine for 25th October in Europe and 7th December in US (via MVD). Tank on-line: www.tankofficial.com. MORE SONGS FOR THE WHOLE LOTTA TRIBUTE: Three additional musicians have been confirmed for the upcoming tribute album "Whole Lotta Love: An All-Star Salute To Fat Chicks." Founding Twisted Sister guitarist Jay Jay French, Tuff vocalist Stevie Rachelle and drummer Stet Howland (Lita Ford, W.A.S.P.) have collaborated on a new recording of the Ted Nugent cult favorite "Thunder Thighs," a track from his 1986 "Penetrator" album. As Ted himself reveals in its liner notes, "'Thunder Thighs' is a career highpoint, as far as I and many others are concerned." The story of a lusty young lady with a healthy appetite (and healthy curves to match), the new version is delivered with equal gusto and enthusiasm by the talented trio above. The track was arranged and produced by Paul LaPlaca (Chris Caffrey, The Great Kat, Zandelle), who also contributes bass and rhythm guitar. A sample of the song is now available at the official "Whole Lotta Love" MySpace page. www.myspace.com/WholeLottaLoveTribute. "I am the voice of this lost Nugent nugget," says Stevie Rachelle, "and it sure was a fun one to sing! Uncle Ted does indeed rock. Always has, always will." "I recorded my guitar parts fresh out of seeing 'Avatar' by James Cameron," comments Jay Jay French. "So even though I was laying down tracks for a song about some girl with meaty legs, all I kept picturing were those elongated blue aliens with their 3% body fat!" "Ironically, I found myself working on 'Thunder Thighs' during a thunderstorm," reveals Stet Howland, "and a lightning strike fried my system! To say that the files got corrupted would be an understatement! Long story short, after buying a new computer, reloading and upgrading my Pro Tools and shouting a lot of random curse words, my drum tracks were done!" LYRAKA PREPARE DEBUT: The heavy metal opera project, Lyraka, is beginning final mixes for its first CD, entitled "Lyraka, Volume 1". A statement from Andy DiGelsomina reads: "We have 4 songs completed by Graham Bonnet (Rainbow, Alcatrazz), 1 by Tommy Heart (Uli Jon Roth, Fair Warning), and 1 by Veronica Freeman (Benedictum). All three singers have proven their world-class metal (pun intended) and then some. It has been a fantastic honour and flattery to have worked with these class A musicians, and I hope to work with them in the future as well." Lyraka bills its music as "Wagnerian Opera Metal, defined" and "a set of highlights CDs and 3-d animated movie in the making". The first of the CD set will be released February 2011, while production on the movie is set to begin in 2013. More information at Lyraka.com. HEALING SIXES COMPLETE WORK ON NEW ALBUM 'BLUEJAY,' PREPPING FALL 2010 TOUR: Healing Sixes are out to prove that blues rock is as healthy and vibrant as ever. And they've done an exceptional job thus far - releasing a handful of outstanding albums, and playing alongside some of the most renowned names in rock royalty. Hailing from Indianapolis, Indiana, and consisting of band members Doug Henthorn (vocals, guitar), Eric Saylors (guitar), Wade Parish (drums), and Jeff Stone (bass), Healing Sixes has released a total of three studio albums thus far, 1998's 'Maple;' 2002's 'Enormosound;' and 2007's 'One Less Friend to Ignore,' as well as an exceptional live DVD, 2008's 'Live at Harby's,' which captures the band in an intimate, acoustic setting. Previously, Healing Sixes has played shows alongside the likes of Ted Nugent, Bret Michaels, The Why Store, Todd Rundgren, Night Ranger, Blue Oyster Cult, and Hoobastank (among countless others), and welcomed none other than drummer Jason Bonham into their band for several years. The album on which Bonham appears, 'Enormosound,' was also overseen by much in-demand producer, Kevin Shirley. Additionally, Healing Sixes' new album, 'Bluejay' (which comes out Tuesday, September 7th, 2010), marks the first time that the previously released single, "Fine Time," which features blues virtuoso Joe Bonamassa on guitar, has appeared on a full length release. The tune was originally issued as a maxi-single in 2009, and has been played regularly on such respected rock stations as WFBQ, WTTS, WRZX, WKHY, and WLBC. Currently, Healing Sixes are hard at work in the studio, putting the finishing touches on 'Bluejay' (which will be available for purchase via iTunes, Amazon, Napster, Rhapsody, ItsAboutMusic.com, and the band's website on September 7th, 2010) - the follow-up to 'One Less Friend to Ignore.' The quartet has been able to keep their live chops up by playing several shows this summer, and will be hitting the tour trail more thoroughly come the Fall, when the announce a string of US dates to support their forthcoming album. Healing Sixes are always about emphasizing that their songs create a strong, vibrant - yet never formulated - rock sound, which will undoubtedly be on display once more on their forthcoming studio album. Get ready to rock once more with Healing Sixes! For more information, visit: www.healingsixes.com / www.myspace.com/healingsixes. DANTE FOX LOSE BASS PLAYER MIKE DAGNALL: After four enjoyable years, bass player Mike Dagnall has parted ways with Dante Fox. Mike wishes the rest of the band every success in the future and is now moving on and looking for a new band or project. You can contact Mike direct on www.myspace.com/mikedagnall or at mikedagnall@hotmail.com. STYX DRUMMER TALKS ABOUT CLASSIC ALBUMS TOUR: Todd Sucherman is not only the drummer in the superstar rock group Styx, he's a lifelong fan who had actually played Styx songs in bands prior to joining Styx in 1996. In an interview with Long Live Rock on Blog Talk Radio, Sucherman expressed his excitement at the band's upcoming fall tour, in which Styx will perform its classic albums The Grand Illusion and Pieces of Eight in their entirety. "These are two records that I bought and I loved," Sucherman said. "They're the ones that have the most progressive leanings, and that's a little bit more where I come from. So I think these are the two records that most personified the band, and solidified them. Those are the defining moments." Rehearsing for the tour has been an interesting trip back in time for Sucherman's band mates Tommy Shaw and James "JY" Young, who were both in Styx for the original recordings. "It's kind of funny to see them look at each other and go, 'What did I used to do here?'" Sucherman said with a laugh. "And then they put it together." As a fan himself, the drummer feels this is a concert experience fans won't want to miss. "I'm really excited about this venture. It's going to be fun for us and fun for people that come to the shows," he stated. "A bunch of songs have either never been played since then, or have never been performed live. This is a show that I would definitely want to see." Keep up with Styx' tour dates at www.styxworld.com. Listen to the interview at this link: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/08/15/interview-with-styx-drummer-todd-sucherman-from-long-live-rock. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following classic live shows: - Lita Ford - London 1988 - Cheap Trick - Tacoma WA, 2010 - Great White - Big Blues Live, NY 1991 - John Waite - Tower, PA, USA 1985 - Europe - Live Chile, 2009 MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

RATT AND ROLL OVER?: After a very successful 12 months, are the wheels of the Ratt bus about to run off the road again? Here's some extractions from a brand new Stephen Pearcy interview with BraveWords' Mitch Lafon: Bravewords.com: What's next for Ratt? Stephen Pearcy: "First, we have to finish the few dates we have left on the table and we did some filming a couple of nights back for our next single, 'Eat Me Up Alive'. It'll be a live montage kind of video and then I have to take care of some unfinished business with the band and me. After, that I'm off and running doing some solo stuff and a new project. I'm also going to get the label (Top Fuel Records) in gear and get the Riot Brides (www.stephen-pearcy.com/item_19/Riot-Brides.htm) back in the studio. Their EP is out and the girls are selling some records." Bravewords.com: Now, that you are back in Ratt is Stephen Pearcy solo finished or on hiatus? Stephen Pearcy: "No, I'm just starting. Like I said, I have some unfinished business with the band because as usual it's complicated and dysfunctional. Things just didn't fall into place and I've left my options open. So, I'll continue to pursue my solo stuff and do another solo record, but first and foremost I'm a guitar player and I'm going to be putting together a band/ project tentatively called 'Battering Ramm'. The stuff that I'm writing for this project along with Rat Bastard guitarist Erik Ferentinos is way heavy and ass-kicking, but I won't be singing (which will probably make some people happy {laughs}). I'll only play guitar. I'll get a singer, some established players and we'll put out some songs." Bravewords.com: I'm sure that will make a lot of people unhappy actually. Stephen Pearcy: "I'll still go out and shake it up with the Rat Bastards and sing. That's not going to stop. In fact, I already have a few dates posted. I plan on spending months and months with these things (projects). I'm real excited about getting the Top Fuel Records projects going. I've been writing Ratt songs since day one and the EP was my early Mickey Ratt music. So, I've got a new Mickey Ratt compilation coming out later this year which will lead, hopefully, into a new solo record and then there will be the Battering Ramm record. The music for that is insane – it's Vicious Delite meets my solo stuff meets hard core Ratt meets new music all into one. Like I said, it'll be ass-kicking." Bravewords.com: How does this work in with the Ratt schedule? There's obviously going to be another album and tour in 2011, right? Stephen Pearcy: "We'll see what happens. I'm not looking at that right now. I just want to finish up and take a break. I want to get my health together. I'm still not 100%. I'm not jumping off the risers just yet and to sing after a hernia surgery is a whole painstaking thing." Bravewords.com: Still you managed to get the Scorpions dates done. Stephen Pearcy: "We had a great tour with them. We jammed with them the last night and it was very very cool. They are just the utmost professionals and hopefully they won't retire. There is chatter of doing more stuff, but I just want to finish up the Ratt stuff for now. There seems to be different agendas. I came back into the fold to take care of business first and foremost. I'm very happy with the new record (Infestation) and it's still selling very well. Carlos and I unleashed the first two singles ('Best Of Me' and 'Eat Me Up Alive')." Bravewords.com: Let me ask you about the down side of Ratt. I don't want to get too negative, but your drummer, Bobby Blotzer, just released a book… Stephen Pearcy: "Is that what you call it {laughs}?" Bravewords.com: It's a 'collection of words' and some of things that were said in it… well, it might have been a good idea to wait until the band had broken up for good or maybe make sure you've out lived your band mates… Stephen Pearcy: "I'll keep a lot of things to myself 'cause I don't need to give that book any more attention than it deserves. I've been working on something called 'Rat Tales' (which is still on the table) and lo and behold 'Tales of Rat by Bobby Blotzer' comes out. It's not too original, but anyways. There are some things that I find very misleading and he speaks for us on some things that are so far from the truth. He spent a lot of time out there devoted to his agenda and should have taken care of the Ratt agenda instead." To find out what's happening with Stephen visit: www.stephen-pearcy.com and www.topfuelrecords.com. Read the full interview at: www.bravewords.com/news/144664. PAUL SHORTINO JOINS UP WITH GREAT WHITE: In the continuing saga of Great White and Jack Russell's health issues, this week's show in Tennessee has been cancelled and Paul Shortino has been called upon to help for the band's Swedish show September 11. Paul Shortino says: "As you may know, Jack Russell of Great White has been ill, and unable to perform with the band. They have graciously asked me to fill in for Jack on Sept 11, at the Stockholm Rock Out Festival in Stockholm, Sweden. I am thrilled to be able to join the band for this incredible event, and can't wait to see all the fans there! Let's all wish Jack a full and speedy recovery, so he can get back out there soon."

 

 

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

KIMBALL/JAMISON PROJECT DUE IN 2011: Mat Sinner recently posted about his current project - producing a new album featuring vocalists Bobby Kimball and Jimi Jamison. Yes, this is correct, but there's still a way to go and official news will be available shortly. Bobby stated in a recent interview that he and Jimi are set to record 20 songs written by Richard Page and Randy Goodrum for the project. So far recording of the band has taken place with Bobby and Jimi awaiting mixes to begin their vital roles. Stay tuned... ERIC MARTIN BEST OF AND LIMITED OZZY RELEASE DUE IN JAPAN: Those wonderful Japanese Eric Martin fanatics have come up with another new release to celebrate the vocalist. Love Is Alive - Works of 1985-2010 will be released September 8 and features three newly recorded songs: Can't Take My Eyes Off You, Tell The Truth, To Be With You (solo version). Full track listing is: 1. Love Is Alive 2. Fly 3. You're Too Good For Him 4. Bigger Man 5. A Wink And A Smile 6. Eyes Of The World 7. Everytime I Think Of You 8. Everyday 9. All Cried Out 10. Let's Get It Over With 11. Sleepwalking 12. Can't Take My Eyes Off You 13. Tell The Truth 14. To Be With You. Pre-Order now from CD Japan.   There's a Japanese tour edition of Ozzy Osbourne's Scream being released on October 13. The Track Listing is: 1.Let It Die 2.Let Me Hear You Scream 3.Soul Sucker 4.Life Won't Wait 5.Diggin 'Me Down 6.Crucify 7.Fearless 8.Time 9.I Want It More 10.Latimer's Mercy 11.I Love You All 12.Hand of the Enemy (new song) 13.One More Time (new song) 14.Jump The Moon (bonus track for Japanese release) 15.Let Me Hear You Scream (Live) 16.Bark At The Moon (Live) 17.No More Tears (Live). The limited edition release is also set to have a special Ozzy towel included (?): Pre-Order from CD Japan. Ratt have a live album/DVD scheduled for relese in Japan September 22. No details available yet. MELODIC BRIEFS: News from the pages of Gibson Online today: Slash is Double Nominee in 'Classic Rock' Hall of Honour Awards: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/slash-0816 / Peter Frampton's Father and Son Act: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/Frampton-Father-Son-815 / Crowd Grows Unruly at Guns N' Roses' Late Start: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/News/guns-and-roses-0816. A new Paul Rodgers interview is online now at: www.bestofwny.com/nightlife. A Jimi Jamison video interview shot in late July: www.backstageaxxess.com. Vocalist Chandler Mogel has another band he is involved in - Dangered Ace . The album Gotengo can be checked out at: www.cdbaby.com/cd/DangeredAce. Manowar, HolyHell, Awaken and a host of other international Magic Circle Music artists and friends pay tribute to one of the greatest heavy metal singers of all time on this official Magic Circle Music release. Songs like "Heaven And Hell", "Holy Diver" and "Catch The Rainbow" are featured and performed with a dignity and grace befitting a true metal hero: Ronnie James Dio. Log on to www.thekingdomofsteel.com and make some Magic when you get A Tribute To Ronnie James Dio T-Shirt and CD! SHREDGUY RECORDS TO RELEASE ALEX EHRSAM P.U.L.S.E. THIS FALL: Shredguy Records will be releasing their ninth CD, when Alex Ehrsam's release P.U.L.S.E. hits the streets this fall. Ehrsam is a heavy fusion player, who has been playing for thirteen years is a graduate of the Music Academy International(Nancy, France). His new cd is recorded with his band featuring Olivier Wilhelm on drums, Anh-Quàn Lê on bass & Thomas Gutehrlé on composition & some rhythmic guitar, P.U.L.S.E. delivers top-class heavy-jazz/fusion guitar shredding. For more info check out: www.myspace.com/alexehrsamguitarist.   MORE OZZY NEWS - NEW SINGLE STREAMING AUDIO: As Ozzy Osbourne gears up for the August 14 launch of the 2010 OZZFest, the multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer has released "Life Won't Wait," the second single from his worldwide smash Epic Records album Scream, which entered the charts in June in the Top Ten in more than 10 countries. The video for the hard-hitting and melodic life-affirming song is being directed by Ozzy's son, Jack Osbourne, and it was shot last week at various locations in Los Angeles. At the same time, Ozzy's first-ever official free iTunes app--simply called Ozzy--is available now and allows fans to enter the world of The Prince of Darkness. Users can experience music from Ozzy's 30-year solo career with access to a full discography featuring direct links to his iTunes page for a one-stop link to purchase of any song or album from his catalog. In addition, once downloaded, users can view music videos and photo galleries, access Ozzy's current concert dates and buy tickets for upcoming shows, or can instantly post comments and photos from shows they've just attended. A built-in fan wall also allows users to communicate with each other and search (by location) to find fellow Ozzy fans in their town. The Ozzy app is fully integrated with his official Twitter feed and has direct links to all of his other social networking sites as well as Ozzy's official online store. Scream is Ozzy's first album in three years and 10th studio album overall. He recorded most of it at his Los Angeles home studio, The Bunker. It was produced by Ozzy and Kevin Churko, both of whom did the same honors for Ozzy's 2007 worldwide million-seller Black Rain. Ozzy co-wrote all the songs on SCREAM, primarily with Churko. First single "Let Me Hear You Scream" hit #1 on both Active Rock charts (for two weeks) and #1 at Mainstream Rock (for 11 weeks). "Life Won't Wait" is being cited in various reviews as one of the album's standout tracks: "Osbourne's new band displays a tempo-shifting aptitude similar to vintage Black Sabbath - particularly on longer songs like "Let It Die," "Diggin' Me Down" and "I Want It More" - and is just as adept delivering gentler and more melodic pieces ('Life Won't Wait,' 'Time')." --Gary Graff, Billboard, July 31, 2010 "The lead single 'Let Me Hear You Scream,' with its mega-chorus and insane guitar solo should prove perfect for arena madness and there's plenty of the former Black Sabbath frontman's trademark trudging metal heard on songs like 'Crucify' the blow-down-the-doors rocker 'Let it Die,' and the exceedingly melodic standout 'Life Won't Wait.'" --Kevin O'Hare, The Republican (Springfield, MA), June 21, 2010 For Scream, Ozzy will embark on an 18-month world tour with his band: new guitar player Gus G., bassist Blasko, drummer Tommy Clufetos and keyboardist Adam Wakeman. His U.S. dates will kick off with an August 12 performance at the 70th anniversary of the Sturgis motorcycle rally in South Dakota before he launches this year's OZZFest on August 14. The six OZZFest dates will feature the main stage line-up with full sets from Ozzy, Mötley Crüe, Rob Halford, DevilDriver and Nonpoint. Second stage headliners and six-time OZZFest veterans Black Label Society will be joined by Drowning Pool, Kingdom of Sorrow, and Goatwhore, Skeletonwitch, Saviours and Kataklysm. Each OZZFest date will include 13 bands on two stages with music beginning at 1:00 PM. In addition, concert-goers can once again visit the OZZFest "Village of the Damned" featuring a mix of interactive activities, shopping and entertainment throughout the venue concourses. Single Stream: Ozzy Osbourne - Life Wont Wait - release.theplatform.com/content.select?pid=k2yilsh3mwRh1YkREXgqlsKu5DU7q_yy&UserName=Unknown. HOUSTON DEBUT ALBUM OFFERS MORE AOR DELIGHT: Rocket Songs/Sound Pollution is proud to present the debut album from the Swedish rock duo Houston. Houston is: Freddie Allen and Hampus Hank Erix - two young men joined together on a mission to create the music of rock dreams and fantasies long gone...or so they thought. The music of Houston brings back memories of Survivor, Boston, Foreigner and Journey - while they were at their best, still aiming to get better. Only this is no journey back in time. Adult-oriented rock, AOR, is on the move and has seldom been more celebrated by critics and fans alike. Journey's 'Don't Stop Believing' sensationally climbed back to the top ten of the British single charts again last year, while Foreigner's and Boston's anthems continue to show up on movie soundtrack albums - and Bon Jovi's tours breaks new records in the US and elsewhere. AOR strikes back, bigtime. And Houston is here for the take-off. Houston's debut album mixes classical song writing and musicianship, with new talent and an urge to create the best rock music imaginable. Focusing on strong choruses, high-pitched but still smooth vocals, sweet and dreamy keyboards and of course guitar solos to end all guitar solos - this is a must for every respectable rock connoisseur. Tommy Denander, Tomas Vikstrom, Mats Olausson - these are only a few of the rock legends appearing on the album. Monster producer Ricky B Delin has lined up an amazing crew working to create the best of both these worlds, the classical and the up-and-coming. If there is one word to describe this music, it is definitely not Shock Rock or Cock Rock...but maybe Jock Rock. The 'Jock' of suburban America is the cool guy involved in sports and often also the badass of 80's movies like Karate Kid, Can't Buy Me Love and Savage Streets. Somebody like this, cruising the streets in a 'too cool for school' way- what would he or she listen to? Definitely Houston! The first single 'Hold On' has gotten a lot of attention and air time in Sweden and Finland. The next single 'Truth Slips' will be digitally released in august. The album will hit the stores (and sites) on September 3. PreOrder: https://www.bengans.se/popup/houston/int.aspx?language=en / www.myspace.com/houstontheband. Track Listing: 1. Pride 2. Truth Slips 3. Hold On 4. I'm Alive 5. One Chance 6. Give Me Back Your Heart 7. Misery 8. She's A Mystery 9. Now 10. 1000 Songs.   xx

 

 

Monday, August 16, 2010

JACK RUSSELL'S (NOT SO) GREAT NIGHT OFF: Terry Ilous stood in for a sick Jack Russell at this weekend's Great White gig in California. Long time bud Steve Brownlee was on hand and sent me this report: Despite lead singer Jack Russell having a "medical emergency," Great White performed live on 8/12/10 at the Brixton in Redondo Beach, CA For the first time I can recall a guest substitute singer was brought into the Great White fold, Terry Ilous of XYZ. When arriving to the venue a sign was posted outside stating: "Due to a medical emergency Jack Russell will not be performing at tonight's show. Terry Ilous of XYZ will be signing for Great White this evening. Please keep your ticket stub and you will have free admission to the re-scheduled Great White show n the New Year. If you wish for a refund, please speak to our box office." It was an awkward set mostly comprised of their ballads that featured Terry Ilous on about half the songs. Lead vocal duties on half the set were split amongst Mark Kendall, Michael Lardie and Scott Snyder. The band even played a song from Mark's solo album and the set featured two extended guitar jams. Here is a link to a video II shot of the band performing "Face the Day" with Terry Ilous on vocals, a song I promoted heavily in my days promoting and marketing their album "Shot in the Dark": www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fIZsenDiOE.   xxxx VENICE CREW ON BOARD FOR ROGER WATERS TOUR: News from the Venice camp: "After a fair amount of vocal rehearsals, and a fair amount of frustration, it has been decided that it would be best if Pat replace me as the vocalist that sings all the high parts for the Roger Waters tour of "The Wall." Unfortunately, the vocal part I was assigned ended up out of my natural range, and made it very difficult for me to consistently deliver...and I don't like "not delivering." Luckily for Pat, and for Venice, these parts seem to be in his "wheelhouse" (the strong part of his voice). As crazy as this whole situation has been, this is still an amazing opportunity for Venice. I love my brother and cousins, and of course it will be strange to have them traveling to gigs, checking into hotels, laughing until crying and ultimately singing on stage without me, but I wish them all the best on this tour, and I know they will blow people away with "that sound." Although I will be staying home for this tour, I'll get to watch my son Rowdy start Middle School, and my daughter Avalon play her second year of High School volleyball...... and have Halloween and Thanksgiving with my family.....which hasn't been the case for a long time. These simple things are so thrilling for me. I'm confident that there are many new opportunities awaiting me as a result of this. I will be open to and will embrace what the universe has to offer me. My wife Danielle is amazing...she is my rock. We choose to look at this situation as a new opportunity for new possibilities. I thank you all for your support. I have no regrets....(other than everything to do with not doing the tour...) I am a lucky man!" - Michael. DEEP PURPLE MKIV DOCO ON THE WAY: By Tim Cashmere / Undercover.com.au / "A new Deep Purple documentary is currently in the making and is set for release next year. The film will be called 'Getting Tighter' and shows the band during their turbulent years in their "MKIV" line up before their disbanding in 1976 and will feature archival footage, as well as new interviews with Jon Lord and Glenn Hughes. It chronicles the auditioning and death of guitarist Tommy Bolin, the bands legendary drug use and their self eventual self destruction. There will be rare live performances of 'Smoke On The Water', 'Burn' and 'Highway Star', 'Love Child' and 'You Keep On Moving', the latter two from the MKIV lineup's only album. The DVD will also include the film 'Deep Purple Rises In Japan', a previously unreleased documentary about the band, so you get two for the price of one! The film is set for release in "early 2011". Check out the trailer here: www.undercover.com.au. RONNIE JAMES DIO CHARITY AUCTION: Guitarist Keri Kelli says: "Hope all is well with everyone around the planet! Just wanted to send a quick email regarding the Dio's charity auction I am doing in conjunction with our bar 'Aces & Ales' in Las Vegas. I know we have 'little' time to spread the word on this, I'm going to do my best through my complete address book as well as all my friends and websites/blogs. Anything you can do to spread the word would be greatly appreciated." So...with that said: Aces & Ales pub in Las Vegas (owned by Alice Coopers guitarist Keri Kelli) are hosting an online auction, with 100% of all proceeds going to the Ronnie James Dio "Stand Up & Shout" cancer fund. There are many great, R'n'R and beer related items—from Alice Cooper and KISS to Dogfish Head and Sierra Nevada! Please visit the link below to view the catalog and bid on items. The auction will run through Monday August 16th at 6PM PST. This is such a great cause, in the name of a great rock icon, we hope you will participate! WebLink: auctions.readysetauction.com/acesales. MELODIC BRIEFS: Gibson Guitars Online have an exclusive interview with Joe Bonamassa about the new hard rock supergroup Black Country Communion: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/black-country-communion-0813/ Adler's Appetite featured on RockEyez.com: www.rockeyez.com. An exclusive interview with ex-Whitesnake/current "Monsters Of British Rock" guitarist Micky Moody is now available on the Listen Again site of South Wales' GTFM Rock Show along with recent in-studio appearances from Magenta's Christina Booth and FM pair Steve Overland and Pete Jupp: gtfmrockshow.wordpress.com. After their successful gig at the Headbangers Open Air in Germany, the irish metal institution Stormzone release a new video for the title track "Death Dealer" taking from their current album: www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnPEBLOPBbY. The Line up for Stockholm Rock Out Part 2 is now final: www.sthlmrockout.com.   EUROPE'S LAST LOOK AT EDEN NOMINATED AT THIS YEAR'S CLASSIC ROCK 'ROLL OF HONOUR' AWARDS: The UK's Classic Rock Magazine today revealed the nominations for their annual awards bash – The Classic Rock 'Roll Of Honour' Awards which takes place on Wednesday 10 November at London's Roundhouse, hosted by Alice Cooper. For the first time in the awards' history the show will also feature live performances from Cheap Trick and Alter Bridge. Six of the categories on the night, including Album of the Year, for which Europe's Last Look At Eden has been included in the list of initial nominations, will be decided by the public vote (see the categories to vote for by visiting the following link - awards2010.classicrockmagazine.com/index.php). There will be a number of special achievement awards on the night, with the winners to be revealed over the coming months. Rock music fans are being asked to cast their votes for Best Album of the Year from the following list of initial nominations - Album Of The Year: Europe - Last Look At Eden, Cheap Trick – The Latest, Bigelf – Cheat The Gallows, Slash – Slash, Kiss – Sonic Boom, Wolfmother – Cosmic Egg, Iron Maiden – The Final Frontier, Pearl Jam – Backspacer, Alice In Chains – Black Gives Way To Blue, Lynyrd Skynyrd – God & Guns, Gaslight Anthem – American Slang, The Scorpions – Sting In The Tail, Ratt – Infestation, Foreigner – Can't Slow Down, Black Crowes – Before The Frost…, Steve Hackett – Out Of The Tunnel's Mouth. Cast your vote for the Album of the Year here: awards2010.classicrockmagazine.com/index.php.

 

 

Friday, August 13, 2010

DAMON JOHNSON RELEASES RELEASE: The much anticipated Damon Johnson solo acoustic album, Release, is now available for pre-order in our store. The album features songs that Damon has written in the past few years, and has guest appearances by Alice Cooper and Damon's daughter, Sarah Marlo Johnson. We are due to accept delivery of the hard copies of the album on August 17. CDs will be shipped in the order they are invoiced to our store. Thanks to everyone for their support, enthusiasm, and patience. Track Listing: 1 Release (Hard Rain Comin') 2 Pontiac 3 Everyday 4 Dayton, Ohio 5 Just Feel Better 6 Leave It All Behind 7 Because Our Love's That Strong 8 Better Days Will Come At Last 9 Generation Landslide 10 She's All That (And More) 11 Satellites 12 Jolene 13 Hard Act To Follow 14 Where I'm From. More Info: www.damonjohnson.com.   ACCEPT ANNOUNCE WORLD WIDE NEWS MARATHON TO PROMOTE BLOOD OF THE NATIONS: To support the release of their long-awaited new album Blood Of The Nations, Accept are proud to announce a 24-hour News Marathon to take place the day before the album's European release on August 20 via Nuclear Blast Records. (The CD will be released in Japan on Sept. 4th and in the US on Sept. 14th). The album has generated a tidal wave of exhilaration and anticipation around the globe weeks ahead of its release. Blood Of The Nations is destined to become one of the most important rock releases of 2010. The ground-breaking 24-Hour News Marathon will take place over the official Accept website www.acceptworldwide.com as well as over all accompanying Social Networking sites (Facebook, Twitter and MySpace). The fans will be able to get access to exclusive Accept news from all over the world, see personal video messages from the band members, take part in a variety of raffles and give-aways and much, much more. The Accept News Marathon begins August 19th, 2010 at 9:00 in the morning Central European Time (3:00 AM East Coast Time). Up to the minute latest news of Accept will be posted and updated every hour all day long. Blood Of The Nations was recorded at Backstage Studio in Derbyshire, England with acclaimed British producer and SABBAT guitarist Andy Sneap (Megadeth, Exodus, Arch Enemy, Masterplan). The album — which marks the recording debut of the band's llatest addition, vocalist Mark Tornillo (ex-TT Quick) — contains thee following 12 tracks (The European limited edition digi-pack includes one bonus track): 01. Beat The Bastards 02. Teutonic Terror 03. The Abyss 04. Blood Of The Nations 05. Shades Of Death 06. Locked And Loaded 07. Time Machine (Bonus Track) 08. Kill The Pain 09. Rollin' Thunder 10. Pandemic 11. New World Comin' 12. No Shelter 13. Bucketful Of Hate. Accept: Wolf Hoffmann: Guitar, Peter Baltes: Bass, Mark Tornillo: Vocals, Herman Frank: Guitar, Stefan Schwarzmann: Drums. BONUS TRACKS UPDATES: I've amended the Forces Of Dark & Light Bonus Track listing from yesterday's update. It's even better now and e-mails will be sent out tonight to those that have pre-ordered already and also as new orders come in. Bonus Tracks are: 1) All I Know - Rain [Beau Hill 2010 Remix] 2) Edge Of Forever - I Won't Call You [Original Album Version] 3) Gary Schutt - Heaven and Hell [From Upcoming Release] 4) Jim Peterik - My War [Album Advance] 5) Hardreams - I'll Say Bye Tonight (Live)(From new live album) 6) Norway - Tell Me [New 2010 Remix] 7) Richard Lee - Satellite [album Preview] 8) Peter Hodgson - Travels in Hyperreality [Guitar Inst.] Pre-Order MRCD7 here. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new features: Ivory Tower (pre-Medicine Wheel) - Demos (US 93)(7 Tracks) Heavens Edge - Missing Pieces (14 Tracks, Demos) Skid Row - Matt Who Demos (7 Tracks) Alice Cooper - Then Again Live (XM Radio Broadcast) Support MelodicRock.com - join MelodicRock-Xtra.

 

 

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Remaining MP3 previews for MelodicRock.com compilation - MRCD7: Forces Of Dark & Light have been added below. In addition, a new MelodicRockRecords Store has been added to enable easier purchase of all MRCD compilations still in print plus new release and pre-order MRR titles. And details of the 7 Bonus Tracks folks will receive if they pre-order MRCD7 have been listed below. Those that have already pre-ordered will receive link via e-mail in the next 24hrs. MRCD7 is a little different than previous ones, in that I have gathered tracks with two distinct moods - dark and moody and light and breezy. So the music of this set is split into the two discs. CD1 - Darkness: My War / CD2 - Light: When You Believe. Forces Of Dark & Light will be priced at $18 + $5 international shipping and is officially released September 17, with pre-orders shipping by September 10. Pre-orders available now. All artwork is from the super talented Richard Mace. Without further ado, please sample the music of Forces Of Dark & Light -   CD1: My War 01) Hodson - Heart Of Every Man 09:24 - Paul Hodson returns with his first new truly epic tune from a new in-the-works Hodson record. 02) TBA - MelodicRockRecords Artist 03) Jim Peterik - My War 03:56 - Brand new solo track from Jim, very dark and perfect lyrically to be the title song for this disc. 04) Mike Tharin & Danny Vaughn - Revolution 04:41 - Returning from MRCD3, the team of Canadian guitarist Mike Tharin and melodic start vocalist Danny Vaughn. Exclusive! 05) All I Know - Rain 06) Bonrud - Bullet In The Back 03:30 - Paul Bonrud is back with a harder rocking tune from an upcoming hard rock album. 07) Doogie White - Times Like These 05:36 - Brand new solo track. Album TBA! 08) TBA - MelodicRockRecords Artist 09) Mecca - Out Of Love 05:34 Brand new 2010 track. Exclusive to this compilation! 10) Spectra - I Know What You Are Made Of 05:01 - New project featuring guitarist Christian Wolff and Chris Antblad and various vocalists. In this case the great Thom Griffin. 11) Tommy Denander & Joe Pasquale - Run Away 04:17 - Yes, Mr. Denander snags another legendary vocalist in 80s hero Joe Pasquale. Exclusive to this release! 12) Jim Peterik - Hearts Are Gonna Roll 04:39 - Another unreleased Jim Peterik gem, from the same timeframe as the Jimi Jamison tracks. 13) Joe Lynn Turner - This Is Who I Am 03:28 - Brand new solo track from an upcoming album. 14) Santagata - Hopeless 03:51 - Preview of an upcoming album from this melodic hard rock newcomer. 15) Bangalore Choir - Don't Act Surprised 03:55 - From the band's upcoming album. 16) Gary Schutt - Love Me For Me 04:15 - From Gary's upcoming album. 17) Masquerade - Love Is A Runaway 03:04 - Unreleased track from the vaults and exclusive to this release.   xx CD2: When You Believe 01) W.E.T. - If I Fall (Original Demo) 06:12 - Featuring Erik Martensson on vocals and exclusive to this release. 02) Vega - Into The Wild 05:21 - Preview of the upcoming album featuring the Martin Brothers and Kick vocalist Nick Workman. 03) First Signal - When You Believe 04:06 04) Fenrik Lane - Diamonds In The Waste 05) Issa - I'm Alive 03:26 06) After Hours - Turn On Your Radio 04:12 - Preview track from the band's upcoming album. 07) Chris Antblad - Who Loves You Now 03:59 - Brand new 2010 track, due to be included on Chris' next solo album! 08) Edge Of Forever - I Won't Call You 05:42 - Brand new 2010 version, exclusive to this release! Featuring the wonderful Bob Harris on lead vocals. 09) Terry Brock - Diamond Blue 05:02 10) Shining Line - This Is Our Life 04:16 - Exclusive to this release! An unreleased track from the band that lives up to the quality of the album. 11) Trillion - In My Blood 06:11 - Advance preview of the first of 3 new Trillion tracks to be released soon! 12) Norway - Where Are You Now 03:35 - Exclusive to this release - new unreleased track. 13) Big Life - Close To You 04:14 - The debut of a brand new UK band featuring Steve Newman and vocalist Mark Thompson-Smith (Praying Mantis) 14) Line Of Fire - Obsession 04:57 15) N.O.W. - Peace Of Mind 06:20 16) Jane Bogaert w/Joe Lynn Turner - Give It Up 03:54     Order MRCD7 - Forces Of Dark & Light ($18 + $5 shipping)

 

 

MELODIC ROCK RECORDS ANNOUNCES:

MelodicRock Records announces the signing of Norwegian modern melodic pop/rockers Fenrik Lane for the physical world release of their new album "317" (three-seventeen) on September 17 (September 10 for pre-orders). Fenrik Lane originate from Bergen, Norway. They have been playing together since 1997, making their debut in 1998 with the single "Shoe", the result of coming first place in a rock competition. In 2002 they released the independent EP "Come Down Here" which sold an amazing 20,000 copies in their native country – a result of constant touring and an acclaimed energetic live show. The band's original vocalist was Kurt Nilsen – who entered and won Norwegian Idol, later going on to take the big price in World Idol late in 2003. Kurt then quit the band to continue his solo career. Fenrik Lane became a trio, with guitarist Knut Glesnes taking over as lead singer, displaying a compelling and unique style of his own. In 2005 the band released their first full album, "Lane of Life". This time the band really wanted to sound like a trio with no additional effects. After years of hard work brainstorming every idea, Fenrik Lane has now released their second full album titled "317". This magnificent record contains powerful modern rock and energetic pop. The band has experimented with creative arrangements, and the outcome is an exceptional recording with a unique and rich sound. The album also includes an intense rock-version of Rihanna's Russian Roulette. MelodicRock Records owner Andrew McNeice: "These guys approached me with a view to get their planned indie release to me for review. They included a couple of rough mix MP3s and I was immediately captivated. The quality was so seriously good I immediately asked them if I could get involved. To my good fortune things have worked out great with the guys and I am taking on a personal challenge to try and break these guys anywhere I can get attention for them. Production quality is nothing short of major label and there isn't one song on the album that couldn't be a potential radio single. It's a more modern slant than some might expect for the label, but there is no denying each and every song has a defined and memorable chorus. Simply too good too ignore, I love these guys."   The new single to be released is the ultra-catchy rock anthem Diamonds In The Waste, which will also be featured on the new MelodicRock.com CD Sampler: Forces of Dark & Light (out September 10). Former singer Kurt Nilsen states: "I'm certainly looking forward to hearing the final result of what the boys have done. I'm sure it will be great!" Fenrik Lane are: Knut Glesnes - Lead Vocals, Guitar; Christer Unneland - Drums, Backing Vocals; John Erik Soltvedt - Bass, Backing Vocals, Piano.   Track Listing for "317": 01) Megalomania (Preview MP3) 02) Call Her Name (Preview MP3) 03) Diamonds In The Waste (Preview MP3 & New Single) 04) Paranoia (Preview MP3 & Friday's Mystery Artist #2) 05) Runaway Car 06) Cover Your Eyes (Preview MP3) 07) Left Me Scarred 08) Hot Lips (Preview MP3) 09) Bulletproof 10) Hello 11) Going Nowhere (Preview MP3) 12) Hate How You Say Goodbye 13) Sun Explodes 14) Russian Roulette WebLinks: www.fenriklane.com / www.myspace.com/fenriklane / www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pZCXkskOkI / www.melodicrockrecords.com.   Release Dates: September 10 (pre-orders), September 17 (in-stores, CD). Pre-Orders availalke now (see below). Special Event: Tuesday August 17, the band will play an exclusive show in Norway and will hand out thousands of a 9-Track version of the album FREE. MelodicRock Records will join in the celebration by offering a FREE 5 track MP3 EP via MelodicRock.com / MelodicRockRecords.com and various other digital platforms including torrent sites and rock music blogs from Wednesday 18th. Included will be a 6th track – a HD version of the Russian Roulette cover, which you can now view below...     MelodicRock Records are thrilled to bring a long term friendship to fruition with the signing of Belgium's best melodic rock/AOR band All I Know and their debut album "Vanity Kills", set for release October 22 (October 15 for pre-orders). What happens when 4 young guns go through their parents' record collection ? There are those with bad luck who end up with LP's by Jean-Michel Jarre, Samantha Fox or Nana Mouskouri. The more fortunate ones strike gold and discover classic albums by Def Leppard, Billy Idol, Van Halen or Poison. Back in the eighties these bands were all part of the hard rock wave coming over from the United States. All I Know pick up where these classic bands left off. On their first full length album "Vanity Kills" they wear their influences on their sleeves. Let yourself be swept away by blistering guitar-attacks, thundering drums and big choruses! All I Know, from Kortrijk, Belgium, have been playing and writing since 2005 and worked during that time on their debut album, which was pressed independently by the band in 2009 and sold online or at their live shows. In early 2010 the band were selected out of 1000 bands for the final round of Belgium's most important rock contest, Humo's Rock Rally 2010, organized by one of Belgium's biggest magazines, 'Humo'. A huge percentage of all successful Belgian rock bands have made their name through this contest. AIK did not reach the semi-finals, because according to the jury, no one is waiting for the next Bon Jovi! But All I Know proud to be the only band representing the genre, and is sticking to its guns! All I Know hasn't had a permanent drummer for the last two years, working live with Bram Steemans, drummer of Belgium's biggest punk band Janez Detd. Despite approaching a number of well known and smaller labels, the band could not secure a deal for a wider release of their album. Something which shocked MelodicRock Records owner Andrew McNeice: "I was stunned the band had an album of this quality sitting on the shelf. I couldn't believe that here was something I knew would have huge appeal to my own site audience and no one would take a chance on it. I took it up myself to shop the album to the labels I knew and when I couldn't get them a deal either! I knew at that point it was time to do things myself. And from that point I knew All I Know would be one of the first bands to be released on my label."   Since the original indie release of this album was available, a few changes have been made. There are two brand new 2010 tracks which have been added and the lead single "Rain" was given the full re-mix treatment by legendary producer Beau Hill. U.S. radio station KEGL who passed Beau a copy of the album, which saw him contact the band personally to help in some way. To quote Beau: "All I Know caught my attention with their excellent material, an unusual focus on arrangement details, and progressive melodic hooks…sounds like the recipe for a hit to me." The single "Rain" will be included on the new MelodicRock.com CD Sampler: Forces of Dark & Light (out September 10). All I Know's sound sees them mix up the best influences of Bryan Adams, Van Stephenson, REO Speedwagon and Bon Jovi. All I Know are: Ward Dufraimont (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Michaël Neyt (Guitar/Vocals), Amély Mondy (Bass).   Track Listing for "Vanity Kills": 01) All Night Long (Preview MP3) 02) Bad Boy (Preview MP3) 03) Asphyxia (Preview MP3 & Friday's Mystery Artist #1) 04) Rain [Beau Hill 2010 Remix] (Preview MP3) 05) Turn Back Time [New 2010 Track] (Preview MP3) 06) I Need You 07) Into Your Heart (Preview MP3) 08) I Wanna Rock You 09) Sweet 17 10) Teenage Queen 11) All The Way (New 2010 Track] (Preview MP3) 12) Hope And Dreams WebLinks: www.alliknow.be / www.myspace.com/alliknow / www.melodicrockrecords.com. Release Date: October 15 (pre-orders, including 2 exclusive bonus track downloads!; October 22 in-store). Pre-Order date and more audio samples to be announced soon. The band had this to add about signing to MelodicRock records: "Good things come to those who wait. We believed in our debut album "Vanity Kills" from day one, and now it feels like the project has finally come to fruition, with an international re-release. All I Know is grateful for the opportunity to join the MelodicRock Records roster. We are proud to be in the company of rock legends like Jimi Jamison and Jim Peterik, and anxious to see what the future will bring. A big thank you to Andrew McNeice at MelodicRock! Let's ROCK!" "Vanity Kills" was recorded at the legendary Jet Studios in Brussels, Belgium. Staf Verbeeck (Live, Clouseau, Arid) took care of production and mixing duties. Guest musicians on the album include David Poltrock, Karel De Backer and Dave Martijn.   - PRE-ORDER FENRIK LANE AND MRCD7 NOW -

 

 

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

SICK OF THIS YET?: I've had to correct yesterday's Van Halen news - removing the official quote attributed to Eddie & Alex Van Halen. The quote appeared on Rolling Stone and Yahoo, but seems to be a fanciful concoction of someone's mind (after all, why would Van Halen actually make a public statement?!!). News of A new album however remains at the forefront, with Billboard.com also chiming in now: www.billboard.com ("Van Halen fans are rejoicing that the band is in the studio for their first album with on-again off-again frontman David Lee Roth since 1983") QUEENSRYCHE'S TRIPLE-PLATINUM EMPIRE REMASTERED AND EXPANDED FOR 20TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION: Hollywood, California – Queensrche has partnered with Capitol/EMI for the September 14 release of an expanded 20th Anniversary Edition of the bands triple platinum-certified breakout album, Empire. The new 2-CD and digital packages both include the remastered album, featuring six hit singles, including the #1 smash Silent Lucidity, as well as 13 bonus tracks, among them 10 previously unreleased live performances recorded in 1990 at London's Hammersmith Odeon. The 2-CD package is presented in a lift-top box with five postcards, a fold-out poster and a booklet featuring rare photos from the bands personal archive. After building a devoted fan base with album and EP releases throughout the 1980s, including 1988s critically acclaimed Operation: Mindcrime, Queensryche broke into the mainstream across North America and abroad with the 1990 release of Empire. In the U.S., the album peaked at #7 on the Billboard Top 200 chart and its hit ballad Silent Lucidity quickly became a heavy rotation staple at rock radio and on MTV, topping Billboards Modern Rock singles chart and earning Queensryche the coveted MTV Viewers Choice Award for the songs music video. Empire also made the U.K.s Top 10, and the albums international success led to Queensryches 18-month headlining Building Empires world tour, the bands longest trek to date. Empire also features the Billboard Top 10 Modern Rock hits Jet City Woman and Another Rainy Night, the Top 20 single, Anybody Listening?, and the Top 30 singles Best I Can and Empire. In addition to the aforementioned live recordings, Empire (20th Anniversary Editions) bonus tracks include Last Time in Paris from the Ford Forlaine soundtrack, Dirty Lil Secret, and the bands cover of Simon & Garfunkels Scarborough Fair. Since forming in Bellevue, Washington in 1981, Queensryche has sold more than twenty million albums around the world. For more information, visit Queensryches official web site: www.queensryche.com. Empire (20th Anniversary Edition) [2CD, digital] DISC 1 - Best I Can, The Thin Line, Jet City Woman, Della Brown, Another Rainy Night (Without You), Empire, Resistance, Silent Lucidity, Hand On Heart, One And Only, Anybody Listening?, Last Time In Paris [Bonus Track], Scarborough Fair [Bonus Track], Dirty Lil Secret [Bonus Track] DISC 2 (previously unreleased: all tracks recorded live 11/15/90 at Londons Hammersmith Odeon) Resistance, Walk in the Shadows, Best I Can, Empire, The Thin Line, Jet City Woman, Roads To Madness, Silent Lucidity, Hand On Heart, Take Hold Of The Flame.   MORE YESTERROCK RE-ISSUES: New information this week about the coming releases of German re-issue label Yesterrock which all will be released in August 20. Stan Meissner - Windows To Light & Dangerous Games. Multi-faceted songwriter-composer Stan Meissner's career includes hits internationally as well as in both English and French Canada. Meissner has been a staff songwriter for more than 25 years, under contracts with BMG Music Publishing, Warner-Chappell Music and Irving-Almo / Universal Music. He has written for many international acts such as Céline Dion, Lara Fabian, LeeAnn Womack, Eddie Money, Farmer's Daughter, Ricochet, Rita Coolidge, BJ Thomas, Ben Orr (The Cars), Alias, Triumph, Darby Mills, Toronto and Lee Aaron among many others. He also composed music for TV and films. Furthermore Stan Meissner has been very active in the songwriting community, working as a tireless advocate to further a more positive environment for creators in Canada and other parts of the world - as treasurer of SOCAN (2003-2009), president of the SOCAN Foundation (2006-2009), president of the Canadian Songwriters Association (2000-2006) and a member of the board of directors of the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame (2000-2006). As a recording artist, Meissner released three solo albums 'Undertow' (1992, MCA), 'Dangerous Games' (1983, A&M) and 'Windows To Light' (1986, A&M), and with Metropolis' 'The Power Of The Night' (1999, MTM Music). 'Windows To Light' featured the hit single and video 'One Chance' which was the #1 A/C song of 1987 (The Record Charts). The re-issue specialist label Yesterrock is now re-issuing these two 'Lost Treasures' of the 80s, which have been very sought after and hard to find for a long time. Both albums are digitally remastered and contain three bonus tracks each. Head East - A Different Kind Of Crazy Originally known as the 'TimeAtions' in the late 60's, the US band adopted the name 'Head East' in 1969. The fivepiece Band signed a deal with A&M Records in 1974 where they've released a couple of highly successful chart selling albums in the following years which turned the band into one of the country's leading Classic Rock bands of the era. 'A Different Kind Of Crazy' originally came out first in 1979 and reached #65 on the US Billboard charts, including the German hit single and radio hit 'If You Knew Me Better'. This is the last studio release to feature the Boyd, Huston, Somerville, Schlitt, & Birney line-up. Re-mastered by Robert Papst, this sought after collector's item is now available again through the German label Yesterrock. Head East today are still active as touring band and currently playing a couple of festivals in the U.S.A. After leaving the band in 1980, singer John Schlitt continued his career as the singer of White Metal band 'Petra' and as a solo artist also. Track Listing: 1. Speciality, 2. Keep A Secret, 3. Feelin' Is Right 4. Lonelier Now 5. Morning 6. Got To Be Real 7. If You Knew Me Better 8. Too Late 9. Hard Drivin' Days. Martin Briley - One Night With A Stranger Born in London, England, Martin Briley began playing and writing music when he was ten. When he was seventeen, with his band Mandrake he signed his first record deal with Parlophone/EMI. After a brief stint with the British art rock band Greenslade, Martin moved to New York where he immediately found work as a touring and session musician for such artists as Meat Loaf, Ellen Foley and Ian Hunter and Mick Ronson. He then signed as a solo artist to Mercury Records winning critical acclaim for his three self-penned albums, though he is probably best known for his top 40 and MTV hit single 'Salt in My Tears' and the follow up single 'Put Your Hands On The Screen' from his second solo album 'One Night With A Stranger' (1983). Since then Martin has become one of the most prominent writers in America, he has received orchestral commissions, and has written songs for such artists as Celine Dion, *NSYNC, Dream, Michael Bolton, Kenny Loggins, Pat Benatar, Jessica Andrews, 5-Star, Jeff Healey, Rebecca St. James, Willy Nile, Gregg Allman and Barry Manilow, to name a few. Munich based label Yesterrock now is re-releasing the extremely rare CD 'One Night With A Stranger' and makes it available again for a wide audience. The record was digitally re-mastered by Robert Papst. Track Listing: 1. Salt In My Tears 2. Just A Mile Away 3. Put Your Hands On The Screen 4. Maybe I've Waited Too Long 5. She's So Flexible 6. A Rainy Day In New York City 7. I Wonder What She Thinks Of Me 8. Dumb Love 9. One Night With A Stranger. WebLink: www.yesterrock.com. GIUFFRIA CLASSICS ROLLED OUT FOR RE-ISSUE AGAIN: Metal Mind Productions presents the exclusive reissues of Giuffria's stunning self-titled debut and brilliant follow-up Silk and Steel. Giuffria was an American rock band that was formed in 1982 by Gregg Giuffria after his departure from the band Angel, a glam rock/heavy metal band from Washington, D.C. Angel achieved some moderate success throughout the following years, releasing five albums. In 1981 the group disbanded and Gregg decided to form a project of his own, calling it simply Giuffria. The first line-up was gathered in 1982 and introduced Gregg Giuffria on keyboards, Craig Goldy on guitars, Chuck Wright on bass, David Glen Eisley on vocals and Alan Krigger on drums. The band managed to get a contract with MCA Records in 1984 and soon released their self-titled debut album… Giuffria brought eleven brilliant tracks bordering on hard rock and metal, packed with stellar keyboard melodies. The LP reached #26 on the album charts, spawning two hit singles – Call to Your Heart and Lonely In Love. Thanks to their increasing popularity, the band was chosen to support the legendary Deep Purple on their 1984 reformation US tour. In June 1985 the band went on to perform a couple of shows in Japan, which resulted in releasing a live VHS tape entitled Giuffria Japan Tour '85. Before releasing their second opus, Giuffria went through some line-up changes – Goldy left to join Dio, while Wright returned to his former band – Quiet Riot. The new members were Lanny Cordola on guitar and David Sikes on bass. In 1986 the reformed band released Silk and Steel, delivering ten amazing songs filled with hard rock passion. Again, two singles were released – I Must Be Dreaming (a Willy DeVille cover) and Love You Forever. In 1987 Giuffria started working on a third album but by 1988 the recordings were put on hold after MCA dropped the band from their roster. Giuffria III was eventually never released, however nine tracks from those sessions were included on David Glen Eisley's album Lost Tapes. Giuffria disbanded shortly after leaving MCA, Gregg managed to gather a new/old line-up after he got an offer from Kiss's Gene Simmons, who was looking for fresh talents for his record label at that time. Simmons gave two conditions – the group would change their name to House of Lords and replace their former vocalist David Glen Eisley with James Christian. The band agreed and released their first album – called simply House of Lords – in 1988. This was followed by two more offerings. After that, the group called it quits. They reformed years later without Giuffria, releasing three more albums. It is without question that Giuffria's extraordinary talent shined the brightest in his own band. With these exclusive reissues of Giuffria's stunning self-titled debut and brilliant follow-up Silk and Steel, we bring you back the legacy of a true 1980's rock legend… Both albums will be available in new digipak editions, each limited to 2000 copies. Re-release of Silk And Steel includes a bonus track. The material was remastered using tube technology, digitally edited on a golden disc. The release date is set up for 6th September in Europe and 9th November in USA (via MVD). Giuffria: 1. Do Me Right 2. Call To The Heart 3. Don't Tear Me Down 4. Dance 5. Lonely In Love 6. Trouble Again 7. Turn Me On 8. Line Of Fire 9. The Awakening 10. Out Of Blue. Silk And Steel: 1. No Escape 2. Love You Forever 3. I Must Be Dreaming 4. Girl 5. Change Of Heart 6. Radio 7. Heartache 8. Lethal Lover 9. Tell It Like It Is 10. Dirty Secrets Bonus track: 11. Say It Ain't True. WebLink: www.metalmind.com.pl. BIG TRIBUTE ALBUM GETS BIGGER: Trixter guitarist Steve Brown has joined the roster of the upcoming tribute album "Whole Lotta Love: An All-Star Salute To Fat Chicks." Steve puts a rock spin on the hit single "Big Girl (You Are Beautiful)," made famous by current pop sensation Mika. A celebratory affirmation of plus-sized women, it was written as the theme for the Butterfly Lounge, a California nightclub catering to larger ladies and their admirers. The song was an international Top 40 hit in 2007 and has been featured on such TV shows as ABC's "Ugly Betty" and "Good Morning America." Brown took the dance beat of the original and infused it with his own patented guitar stylings, adding a hard rock coating around its pop center. A sample of the song is now available at the official "Whole Lotta Love" MySpace page: www.myspace.com/WholeLottaLoveTribute.

 

 

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

IT'S ON.....WE THINK?!: And news is all over Australian media about a first quarter album release and tour: "Van Halen are hotly tipped to be doing a tour of Australia next year. And we're talking the 'real' Van Halen including the jumping David Lee Roth on vocals and six-string god Eddie Van Halen. Our music reporter Nui Te Koha gave us the rocking news this morning. "Big, big rumour. Van Halen with David Lee Roth, early next year." The band's new album due out in March next year is their first with singer David Lee Roth in 25 years and "the tour will follow shortly after that". Eddie Van Halen told US Rolling Stone last year that his band's reunion tour through America in 2008 was a massive success. They played 74 shows and the tour ended up making $US93 million. "We are a band," said Eddie Van Halen. "We had a lot of fun – Dave was a blast. I'm looking forward to getting on it." SANDY SARAYA COMMENTS ON FIREFEST WITHDRAWAL: In response to recent press from the Firefest team over the reasoning behind the Band Saraya pulling out of this year's FF7 show, singer Sandi Saraya asked that I publish a personal note from her. It reads: "My sincerest apologies to Kieran, Tony Bruno, Chuck Bonfante and Barry Dunaway. But most of all to those who appreciated our small contribution to music..and those who wanted to see us play again. I know and understand why you all are disappointed in me, but would like the chance to clarify as to what the reasons were. Yes, its true that I requested a certain amount of money to play Firefest...but all those involved knew it was because I needed to cover my expenses as far as airfare/passport/incidentals/hotel for my family to travel with me, which was my sole purpose in agreeing to play in the first place...so that my 5 children could experience some of my past...I have no other motivation for doing it. I am not seeking fame, publicity, I am not trying to revive a career, and I certainly was not in this for personal gain. If that was the case, I would have told Kieran that I needed my family's airfare paid for when he first presented us with the opportunity. I didn't ask for that. I was first asked to play this in July of 2009. Back then I had the means to provide my family's tickets and travel expenses myself..but 3 months ago my husband had to undergo surgery..and then undergo physical therapy, and the final blow was the unforeseeable medical bills which exceeded $200k. In the meantime..I had heard little from the rest of the band..understandable as they all have busy lives as well. In the end it was choosing between what was best for my family for medical and financial reasons and having to go out of pocket to make it possible to perform at Firefest. I was truly looking forward to going and was hoping we'd be able to pull something out of the hat to make it happen..but communication between the parties was pretty hazy at best and things broke down pretty quickly via emails. I appreciate what Kieran has done for bands of our genre and am deeply saddened that he and my former bandmates chose to omit my extenuating circumstances and instead are portraying me as someone I am not. I understand the frustration, but not the character assassination of myself, as I believed at one point we were friends. I have the utmost respect for my band members regardless of their stance..It hurts me, yes, that they have gone this route..but if that's what they need to do, so be it. I won't blame them. It is extremely disappointing to all involved, and especially the fans, and for that I am sorry. That being said..I hope you now can find it in your hearts to understand. Thank you - Sandi Saraya." LION MUSIC SEPTEMBER RELEASES ANNOUNCED: Lion Music have announced details of their upcoming September 17 releases.. They are: MindSplit are a new band yet one with years of experience behind its individual members. With a style planted somewhere between straight metal, progressive metal and classic rock the band deliver a truly epic tale with their debut album "Charmed Human Art Of Significance" which is set for release on September 17 on Lion Music. Featuring veterans of the Scandinavian metal scene in guitarist Matthias Holm and vocalist H.B. Anderson, the pair began writing and recording together again in their spare time c.2003 once again after the duo had worked together in the late 80's with "The 'n' Sin". When the music was taking shape bassist Conny Payne (Madison) joined along with highly respect sessions musicians - drummer Jon Skäre and keyboardist Jonas Lidström. This new collaboration turned into a whole different ballgame though when H.B. found his great old, old grandfather Xerxes Anderson's Artificial Universe (a.k.a. Prof. Xandau 1807 ~ 1851) notes from his therapy sessions. Prof. Xandau was a much respected therapist during the first half of 19th century and had his sessions all over the world based in both Europe and the U.S. These notes are the solid ground to this project and are used to tell a true story about psychological thoughts and human behaviours. H.B. Anderson comments, "The memory notes declare what's going on in the human mind in different situations making for compelling listening, although as there are no names involved so it's totally anonymous. Its fantastic literature and breathtaking reading, the human brain is very complex and odd. You can say it sure lives its own life". This inspired lyrical setting led to the music of what would become "C.H.A.O.S" taking on its own personality. This story line is set to a musically accomplished and captivating release which will draw the listener in from the first listen. Musically the album is big, powerful, dark yet with subtle light and a very impressive aura with a powerful production to suit the mood. This has been further extended by the promotional video for the song "NME – Myself and I" which has received positive reactions from YouTube viewers worldwide. With "Charmed Human Art Of Significance" MindSplit has produced a debut album of exceptionally high quality and one that will appeal to a wide range of metal lovers and those with an appetite for enthralling concept stories. Track Listing: 01. Prologue - The Awakening. 02. Silhouettes. 03. The Traveller. 04. Presence Of Time. 05. ...elsewhere? 06. Inside The Heart Of Silence. 07. Battle Of The Mind. 08. Visual Minds - The Eternal Flame. 09. NMe - Myself & I. 10. Through The Eyes Of A Child. 11. A Room With Thousand Doors. 12. A Purpose Of Circumstance. 13. Abandoned Echoes. 14. Epilogue - The Imaginary End. Musicians: H.B. Anderson – Vocals Mathias Holm – Guitars Conny Payne – Bass Jon Skäre – Drums Jonas Lidström - Keyboards. Guest Musicians: Berger – Saxophone Melody Payne - Voice Nordanstigs Manskör - Male Choir Mikael Rosengren - Keyboards. WebLinks: www.mindsplit.se / www.myspace.com/mindsplitse.   xx With their spectacular debut "The Pathway", Finnish progressive metal outfit Anthriel have produced an album which has all the potential to be hailed a classic and is guaranteed to fascinate metal fans worldwide. Formed in 2004 by guitarist Timo Niemistö, keyboardist Antti Hakulinen and drummer Jari Kuokkanen the band went through a couple of line up variations before finding bassist Klaus Wirzenius and ultimately released a 3 track e.p. "Visions of Inner Light and Deeper Thoughts" in 2007 which won considerable praise on the underground metal circuit. Yet it was until the band found powerhouse vocalist Simo Silvan in 2008 that the bands sound became fully realised. Anthriel - the Archangel of balance and harmony is the perfect name for the bands music. With a sound driven by big guitar riffs, deft keyboard touches, a rock solid articulate rhythm section and a healthy dose of expressive vocals high in melody built into intricate yet digestible arrangements this is metal that is easily appreciated on first listen – yet where further plays reveal numerous hidden depths that will keep the listener coming back for more. The quality of material would not be best represented with anything less than a superb production and this is exactly what the "The Pathway" serves up being an impressive self production by Timo Niemistö and mix by Jussi Kulomaa at MSTR Studios. On the bands sound Simo Silvan comments, "We don't want to go extremity with any style of music. There is a time for a head banging and time for musical landscaping. We try to keep our music as versatile we can. "The Pathway" is a mixture of various different kind of music styles like heavy, pop, acoustic, orchestral and instrumental and symphonic metal. The music and lyrics were written hand in hand with the album theme". Thematically "The Pathway" is a concept based on a sequence of individual songs and themes with inspiration coming from R.A. Salvatore's Forgotten Realms: "The Dark Elf Trilogy". On the basic premise of "The Pathway" Timo Niemistö comments, "The Pathway is the story of a man who finds himself grown against his former principles and philosophy of life. He decides to leave his past behind and begin a journey to find his own personal promised land and balance. As the path gets rough good and evil starts to battle in his mind where the reality and fantasy gets mixed. He puts the blame to the Gods for playing with his life and turns his adversities to the divine entertainment with consequences that ultimately lead to the discovery of perfect harmony from within his own soul". This compelling story is a captivating lyrical theme for the first class musicianship on offer all of which comes together to make "Anthriel – The Pathway" a serious contender for best newcomers in progressive metal in 2010. Track Listing: 01. Devil's Lullaby. 02. Mirror Games. 03. Guardian. 04. Repression. 05. Haven of Grace. 06. Dark Divided Minds. 07. The Deliverance. 08. Controversial Euphoria. 09. Light Divine. 10. Scent of Dawn. 11. Promised Land. 12. Chains of the Past. Musicians: Simo Silvan – Vocals. Timo Niemistö - Guitars/backing vocals. Antti Hakulinen – Keyboards. Klaus Wirzenius – Bass. Jari Kuokkanen – Drums. WebLinks: www.anthriel.com / www.myspace.com/anthrielmusic.   xx JONATHAN CAIN TO GUEST ON MUSIC BIZ RADIO: Music Business Radio welcomes singer, songwriter, producer, and artist Jonathan Cain for the August 15 episode. Best known as a member of the world renowned rock band Journey, and a major contributor of the band as songwriter for such hits as "Open Arms," "Don't Stop Believin'," and "Faithfully". He has left his creative mark over the past four decades as an artist/musician (member of The Babys and Bad English), producer (Michael Bolton), and songwriter, having penned songs for artists like Sammy Hagar, Kenny Rogers, Heart, Lorrie Morgan, Mariah Carey, and Peter Frampton. His songs have had a huge resurgence in popularity with the incredible success of the Fox TV show, "Glee." Jonathan will talk about his start in Chicago playing the accordion, songwriting, how to keep a band moving forward, joining established acts, dealing with criticism, and more. Music Business Radio is broadcast from Nashville, TN on Sunday at 7pm (CST) on WRLT-fm 100.1 and rebroadcasts on Monday at 11pm (CST) also on WRLT-fm 100.1 (on air or on-line at www.lightning100.com).    MBR can also be heard on KBNZ Talk Radio at www.KBZNZ.com on Fridays at 10am and continues to reach a growing worldwide audience, logging over 20,000 impressions per month via I-Tunes, The Zune Market Place and at: www.musicbusinessradio.com. DORO PESCH - US TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED; WINS "MAXIMUM METAL" AWARD: Legendary German metal priestess Doro Pesch is proud to announce her return to the U.S. for four special dates later this year. The former Warlock front woman and her band mates will hit stages in New Hampshire, New Jersey, Virginia and New York this Fall (dates below) as part of her on-going Fear No Evil world tour. Said Pesch of the upcoming dates, "I'm so excited to return to American soil and see my American fans again! They will definitely be great shows as the band is doing all these summer festivals and we are on fire! I can't wait!" The US dates will serve as virtual warm up shows for the band's Japanese debut this October. Check out the Japanese teaser video here: www.youtube.com/user/EarsplitPR#p/u/0/HLG_9UCkbdo. In related news, Doro, who opened the Wacken Open Air Festival on August 5 with "We Are The Metalheads" (the Wacken anthem) and Warlock classic "All We Are," took home a Metal Hammer award in the category "Maximum Metal" for her outstanding achievements over a nearly three-decade long career. The award was presented on the second day of the prestigious event. Commented and truly touched-sounding Doro from the event: "It makes me so happy and truly inspires me to continue to always give my best to the fans I love so much. I will always try my hardest to make them happy and to always give 200% every show and every record. I want to again thank the fans for their tremendous love and support through all these great years." Doro Pesch Tour Dates 08/13/2010 Beewood Festival - Landau, Germany 08/15/2010 Bloodstock - Derbyshire, England 09/30/2010 Rocko's - Manchester, NH 10/01/2010 The Pennant - Brooklawn, NJ 10/02/2010 Jaxx - Springfield, VA 10/03/2010 Crazy Donkey - Farmingdale, NY 10/08/2010 Holiday Shinjuku - Tokyo, Japan 10/10/2010 Holiday Nagoya - Nagoya, Japan 10/11/2010 Holiday Osaka - Osaka, Japan Check out the US tour poster here: tinyurl.com/37zzax2. PESCH's most recent full-length, Fear No Evil, was released in Europe on January 30, 2009 via AFM Records and in North America on June 2, 2009 via AFM/Dismanic/Ryko Distribution. VOCALIST DAN REED FEATURED IN NEW THE RIGHT TO ROCK PODCAST: TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest podcast (episode #105), featuring Ex-Dan Reed Network Vocalist Dan Reed. Dan took time out of his busy schedule to discuss his current solo release Coming Up For Air, as well his Storytellers type tour. Dan gives us the true meaning behind several of the tracks on the CD an more. Interview lasts approx. 45 min. Have you ever felt [mentally] lost and didn't know where to go? A lot of us may go through this every now and again, but we come out of it and try to pick up where we left off. We all go on journeys through life, some take us to places we never imagined, and others take us to places we wish we could forget. Being a musician has to be a tough thing because things can turn on a dime. One minute you're on top of the world, and the next you're at ground zero. Join Genghis and Ragman as they go on just such an extraordinary journey with singer/songwriter, Dan Reed (Dan Reed Network), as we return to the latest in the An Evening With... series. Dan discusses his return to music as well as his latest CD, Coming up for Air.

 

 

Monday, August 09, 2010

PHIL KENNEMORE TO BATTLE CANCER: A Message From Phil Kennemore via the Y&T newsletter: "To all of my dear friends and fans around the world and on the forum, Up to now you haven't heard much information (other than about my extreme back pain) because there really hasn't been much until now. I hated leaving you all in the dark but I didn't want to say anything until there was something conclusive to say. We do have a lot more information now. The number one thing you need to know is that I have cancer. It wasn't absolutely formally diagnosed until yesterday. With the bad news I also got the good news that along with surgery and treatments, I will be back rockin' and rollin'. I'll be getting a hip replacement as well as back surgery, which means I'll also be more agile. The doctor said that this is treatable and I'll be walking out of this place and I'll be able to go on the road and do everything I need to do to continue my rock 'n' roll life, in due time. I wanted to thank everyone for your well wishes. I've been sitting here in the hospital reading all of the things that you've all posted online, and I want you to know it means so very much to me to see how much I am loved, supported, and missed. I can really feel the love as I'm reading. I love reading your posts on the web site forum, and, in fact, I need to hear it. From here on out, whatever thoughts and feelings you have, please know that I wish that I could personally respond to each and every one of you, but I'm not able to right now. Brad--thank God for Brad! I'm so grateful that he stepped in to help keep Y&T on tour, bringing Facemelter to the people while I was ordered to the hospital. Right now I think he's the best guy on earth! I'll be released from the hospital within three-to-four weeks, continuing treatment, and at some point, I'll be returning to the road. Keep the love and good vibes flowing. Do me a favor and go out and see the band now--Y&T is kicking serious ass--and I'll be back rocking with you all soon." - Phil. Post a message to Phil here: www.meniketti.com/vforum/showthread.php?t=31772. On a personal note - All my vest best wishes for a speedy recovery Phil. Look forward to hearing news that you beat this! SPV WRAP UP A DECADE OF UFO: True rock legends are characterized by the fact that they not have only added several classics to the rock history, but that their musically output, after many years, still takes place at a constantly high level and – beside all the routine – there's always something new and fresh coming up. UFO meet all this criteria: Alongside to classic albums such as "Phenomenon", "Force it" and "No Heavy Pettin", with which the band was celebrating one success after another, Phil Mogg, Vinnie Moore, Andy Parker and Paul Raymond after the millennium still sound vital and imaginative. With the upcoming album "Best Of A Decade" you can find out for yourself – this Best Of album will be released September 20 via Steamhammer/SPV." Tracklisting: 1. The Wild One 5:39 2. Hard Being Me 3:35 3. Lights Out (live) 6:17 4. Saving me 5:08 5. Daylight Goes To Town 4:33 6. Let It Roll (live) 5:05 7. This Kids (live) 5:06 8. Heavenly Body 3:52 9. Helldriver 4:26 10. Too Hot To Handle (live) 5:16 11. Mr. Freeze 4:43 12. Shoot Shoot (live) 5:02 13. Black And Blue 5:29 14. Can´t Buy A Thrill 5:14 15. Baby Blue 4:32 16. Doctor Doctor (live) 7:06. Current Line-Up: Phil Mogg - vocals, Paul Raymond - keyboards, guitars, Vinnie Moore - guitars, Andy Parker - drums. Tour Dates: 19.09. US-Chicago – Loop Fest 12.10. D-Melle – Hohnerkamps Ballsaal 14.10. D-Lorsch - Musiktheater Rex 15.10. D-Obermarchtal - Gemeindehaus 19.10. D-Freiburg - Jazzhaus 22.10. D/NO-Kiel/Oslo - Classic Rock Boat Cruise 02.12. GB-Birmingham – HMV Institute 03.12. GB-Prestatyn - Hard Rock Hell IV 04.12. GB-Holmfirth – Picturedrome More dates will be added soon!!!! WebLinks: www.spv.de / www.ufo-music.info.   FORTHCOMING QUIET RIOT DOCUMENTARY TO GO BEHIND THE SCENES CIRCA CRAZED 'METAL HEALTH' ERA: Without a doubt, THE heavy metal success story of the early '80s was none other than Quiet Riot. After years of struggling in LA clubs (despite legendary guitarist Randy Rhoads being in their ranks throughout the '70s), the classic QR line-up of Kevin DuBrow (vocals), Frankie Banali (drums), Rudy Sarzo (bass), and Carlos Cavazo (guitar) hit mega-success with their first-ever US release in 1983, the classic 'Metal Health.' Spawning two hit singles that have gone on to become synonymous with heavy metal - "Cum On Feel the Noize" and "Metal Health" - the 'Metal Health' album went on to become the first-ever metal US debut to hit the #1 spot on the Billboard album charts, and resulted in a solid year of sold-out shows and non-stop MTV video airplay. Despite this being an absolute standout era of the band's career, very little substantial video documentation has surfaced. That is...until now. Banali is in the midst of constructing a full-length/behind-the-scenes/warts-and-all documentary about the group (the first-ever solely about QR), which will focus on this aforementioned era, but also, recount QR's entire story - from the first time DuBrow and Banali crossed paths in January 1980, through DuBrow's untimely passing in November of 2007. The video footage - directly from Banali's archives - will include the aforementioned performance in 1980 through some of the last shows QR played, including footage of their Rocklahoma performance in 2007. Additional video footage captures QR in many phases, including a 1982 performance of "DuBrow" (a short-lived name Quiet Riot went by in the early '80s), with DuBrow, Banali, bassist Chuck Wright (Sarzo was playing in Ozzy Osbourne's band at the time), and Cavazo's first video performance with the band, his second total. Also included will be live performances, backstage footage, sound checks, studio sessions, and interviews - most of which has never been seen. Banali has already invested money into the project, and to make the documentary reach its full potential, he is having an online fundraiser that ends September 2nd. Fans are being called upon to help back the project, and lend a hand in its completion. Also via the aforementioned link is a list of the different increments you can pledge - all of which give rewards of QR-related merchandise, and as the pledge amount increases, so do the rewards (including such simply awesome items as an autographed QR photo that includes the late DuBrow's signature, a personal drum lesson with Banali in LA, dinner with Banali at the Rainbow in LA, your own personalized 'Metal Health' platinum CD award, your name in the film's credits, amongst many other cool opportunities). As Banali says, "The moment my friend Kevin DuBrow died, my life and career went from sixty to zero with his final breath." But now, DuBrow and Quiet Riot will receive a much-deserved video retrospective, that will leave no stone unturned. Get ready to bang your head and feel the noize once more! The first stages of putting the documentary together are now underway, and a "teaser" clip of what to expect has been posted via this link: kck.st/9TXAiA.

 

 

Friday, August 06, 2010

MRCD7 - FORCES OF DARK & LIGHT: I am very pleased to announce full details of the brand new MelodicRock.com compilation - MRCD7: Forces Of Dark & Light. This compilation is a little different than previous ones, in that I have gathered tracks with two distinct moods - dark and moody and light and breezy. So the music of this set is split into the two discs. CD1 - Darkness: My War / CD2 - Light: When You Believe. Forces Of Dark & Light will be priced at $18 + $5 international shipping and is officially released September 17, with pre-orders shipping by September 10. Pre-orders will be available from this Monday, with a few extra MP3 bonus tracks included as per usual. All artwork is from the super talented Richard Mace. Without further ado, please sample the music of Forces Of Dark & Light -   CD1: My War 01) Hodson - Heart Of Every Man 09:24 - Paul Hodson returns with his first new truly epic tune from a new in-the-works Hodson record. 02) TBA - MelodicRockRecords Artist 03) Jim Peterik - My War 03:56 - Brand new solo track from Jim, very dark and perfect lyrically to be the title song for this disc. 04) Mike Tharin & Danny Vaughn - Revolution 04:41 - Returning from MRCD3, the team of Canadian guitarist Mike Tharin and melodic start vocalist Danny Vaughn. Exclusive! 05) TBA - MelodicRockRecords Artist 06) Bonrud - Bullet In The Back 03:30 - Paul Bonrud is back with a harder rocking tune from an upcoming hard rock album. 07) Doogie White - Times Like These 05:36 - Brand new solo track. Album TBA! 08) TBA - MelodicRockRecords Artist 09) Mecca - Out Of Love 05:34 Brand new 2010 track. Exclusive to this compilation! 10) Spectra - I Know What You Are Made Of 05:01 - New project featring guitarist Christian Wolff and Chris Antblad and various vocalists. In this case the great Thom Griffin. 11) Tommy Denander & Joe Pasquale - Run Away 04:17 - Yes, Mr. Denander snags another legendary vocalist in 80s hero Joe Pasquale. Exclusive to this release! 12) Jim Peterik - Hearts Are Gonna Roll 04:39 - Another unreleased Jim Peterik gem, from the same timeframe as the Jimi Jamison tracks. 13) Joe Lynn Turner - This Is Who I Am 03:28 - Brand new solo track from an upcoming album. 14) Santagata - Hopeless 03:51 - Preview of an upcoming album from this melodic hard rock newcomer. 15) Bangalore Choir - Don't Act Surprised 03:55 - From the band's upcoming album. 16) Gary Schutt - Love Me For Me 04:15 - From Gary's upcoming album. 17) Masquerade - Love Is A Runaway 03:04 - Unreleased track from the vaults and exclusive to this release. CD2: When You Believe 01) W.E.T. - If I Fall (Original Demo) 06:12 - Featuring Erik Martensson on vocals and exclusive to this release. 02) Vega - Into The Wild 05:21 - Preview of the upcoming album featuring the Martin Brothers and Kick vocalist Nick Workman. 03) First Signal - When You Believe 04:06 04) TBA - MelodicRockRecords Artist 05) Issa - I'm Alive 03:26 06) After Hours - Turn On Your Radio 04:12 - Preview track from the band's upcoming album. 07) Chris Antblad - Who Loves You Now 03:59 - Brand new 2010 track, due to be included on Chris' next solo album! 08) Edge Of Forever - I Won't Call You 05:42 - Brand new 2010 version, exclusive to this release! Featuring the wonderful Bob Harris on lead vocals. 09) Terry Brock - Diamond Blue 05:02 10) Shining Line - This Is Our Life 04:16 - Exclusive to this release! An unreleased track from the band that lives up to the quality of the album. 11) Trillion - In My Blood 06:11 - Advance preview of the first of 3 new Trillion tracks to be released soon! 12) Norway - Where Are You Now 03:35 - Exclusive to this release - new unreleased track. 13) Big Life - Close To You 04:14 - The debut of a brand new UK band featuring Steve Newman and vocalist Mark Thompson-Smith (Praying Mantis) 14) Line Of Fire - Obsession 04:57 15) N.O.W. - Peace Of Mind 06:20 16) Jane Bogaert w/Joe Lynn Turner - Give It Up 03:54   xx MELODIC ROCK RECORDS - MYSTERY ARTISTS: It's Mystery Artist time again...and a double dose no less! Below is one track each from two MelodicRock Records artists - download the 90 second clips and see what you think. The name of the artists and the albums they have signed to MelodicRock Records for, will be revealed Monday, along with additional samples, artwork and more! Right now, check out these two great tracks...   Download Preview Download Preview FRONTIERS RECORDS - CATALOGUE REISSUES & ARTIST UPDATES: Frontiers Records announces the re-release in limited edition of some of long out of print classic releases of its catalogue on August 27th. Subject to the campaign will be four albums. Wetton / Downes "Icon", the album that marked the reunion between Geoff Downes and John Wetton. Originally released in 2005, this is the album that re-sparkled the flame between the two artists and brought later two more albums and the original ASIA line-up reunion. This edition will see the addition of 5 bonus tracks: Heat of the Moment 05; Paradox/ Let Me Go (different version); The Smile Has Left Your Eyes 05; In The End (different version); There In Your Bed (which originally appeared on the "Heat of the Moment 05" EP). Details and samples available on www.frontiers.it/album/4740/ Hurricane "Liquifury", the third album from the amazing US Hard Rock band featuring singer Kelly Hansen (who later went on to join Foreigner) and drummer Jay Schellen (who will shortly appear on the Unruly Child reunion album). This reissue will include two bonus tracks: Push, Promises (both have originally appeared on the Japanese edition of the album). Details and samples available on www.frontiers.it/album/4741/ Seventh Key "Seventh Key", the debut album from the collaboration between Kansas bassist Billy Greer and former City Boy guitar player Mike Slamer. Both have played together in Streets, the band formed by Steve Walsh in his brief hiatus from Kansas from 1983 to 1986. This album includes some songs which were originally demoed for the Kansas "Power" album and feature performances from Steve Morse, Phil Ehart, Steve Walsh and Rich Williams among others. This reissue adds two bonus tracks The Storm Rages On (original Japanese bonus track) and Remember You Well (US bonus track which was written by the other ex Kansas, Kerry Livgren). Details and samples available on www.frontiers.it/album/4742/ Seventh Key "The Raging Fire", the band's second album. From a studio project Seventh Key evolved in a more stable unit which saw Greer and Slamer joined by Terry Brock and Jamie Thompson. Defined as "A brilliant album!" by Melodicrock.com at the time of the release, this reissue comes with one bonus track "Love Train". Details and samples available on www.frontiers.it/album/4743/ Work Of Art - Singer Lars Sarfsund is currently completing the vocal track recordings for the highly anticipated second album from Work Of Art, the Swedish Melodic Rock band that took the scene by storm with the release of the self / titled debut in February 2008. The working title of the new album will be "In Progress" and Frontiers looks to release in before the end of 2010. Melodic Rock fans can expect a real step forward and the guys will deliver nothing else than a stunning release! Allen / Lande - Frontiers Records informs that the release of Allen / Lande third album The Showdown, originally planned for September, is postponed to November 2010. We apologize with the fans for the unexpected delay. First Signal - Some very positive press results are blessing the return of ex-Harem Scarem singer Harry Hess fronting First Signal, the new project produced by Dennis Ward of Pink Cream 69. Some of the most remarkable ones include: "First Signal is a well-constructed and melodic-as-hell album that welcomes Harry Hess and melodic rock fans with open arms." Rockeyez "If you dig Melodic Rock and the old Harem Scarem stuff then this album is something you will enjoy." Welovemetal.com "For die hard fans of Harem Scarem is First Signal featuring Harry Hess a good news show, its finger liking good" Furyrocks.com "Simply put, First Signal is one of the contenders for being one of the best melodic rock albums of 2010". Ytsejam.com Outloud - The US-Greek Hard Rock unit Outloud is working already on the follow up to their successful self titled debut release. RockpagesTV "invaded" Basement Studios were the band is working and talked with drummer Mark Cross and guitarist Bob Katsionis about the recording of their sophomore album, the differences with the first and Outloud's characteristics. You can read the entire interview at: rockpages.gr. The Murder Of My Sweet - The very well known Japanese actor/singer Anna Tsuchiya will use the original The Murder Of My Sweet song "Follow The Rain" (titled "Shout In The Rain" in her version) as the lead off single from her third album released in Japan on Avex. It's very rare that a Japanese artist decides to cut a single with an already available song - but Avex and Anna T loved the track very much and the band feels honoured by their choice. The Murder Of My Sweet are scheduled to appear live at the forthcoming Raismes Festival in France on September 11th. The song in this new version can be enjoyed in this attractive video clip:   Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of Melodic Rock Fanzine. The 39th release of their successful magazine is available for free all over the world through record shops, mail-order and every fine dealer carrying the Frontiers Records releases. This new issue includes reviews and interviews of First Signal, Terry Brock, Terra Nova, Sister Sin Wheels Of Fire, Joey Summer, Kickhunter, Tony Harnell & The Mercury Train, Yoso, Jorn... and more!... and more! Electronic readable version of the magazine is available on the Frontiers official site and here. Here are the previews of the two Fanzine covers:   xx Get ready for a MAJOR new signing on Frontiers to be announced in September. SALUTE'S NEW HEART: Escape Music are pleased to announce their next release - Salute's second studio album Heart Of The Machine, due for release September 24. Salute come flying back with a new recording hot on the heels of last year's Toy Soldier. Track Listing: 1-Higher, 2- A Falling Star, 3- Feed Your Hunger, 4- I Will Be There, 5-Tearing Me Down, 6- Heart Of The Machine, 7- The Long Haul, 8- Shadows, 9- Train Of Rock N Roll, 10- My Part In This Pain, 11- Your Servant Tonight. Line-Up: Mikael Erlandsson – Lead Vocals, Keyboards, Martin Kronlund – Guitars, Bass, Imre Daun – Drums and Percussion, Henrik Thomsen - Bass (special guest – Hope), David Reece: Backing vocals. All songs written by: Martin Kronlund / David Reece / Mikael Erlandsson. Produced, Mixed and Mastered by Martin Kronlund. Here is an exclusive full track download for melodicrock.com readers. Download: Salute - Higher. Mikael Erlandsson is one of the best singer/songwriters in Sweden today with a successful career as a solo artist, especially in Europe and Japan. He has such a distinctive husky voice and many will recognise as the lead vocalist and keyboards player for "Last Autumns Dream". Any fan of LAD will love Salute, simple because Mikael is the singer, but this band should be respected on its own merits as they are a breed apart when it comes to fantastic melodic rock. Many will already know that Martin Kronlund is a world class producer and guitar player and his work shows on this outstanding CD. Powerful harmonies, crunching guitars and beautiful keyboards are the order of the day. Imre Daun (Don Patrol, Gypsy Rose) is still on the drum stool and he plays his heart out. The addition of special guest Henrik Thomsen on Bass from the band Hope is a great touch and his contribution is excellent. David Reece (Bangalore Choir, Sircle of Silence) also helps out with backing vocals. With tracks like "Higher" boasting an amazing guitar solo and "The Long Haul" Salute are onto a clear winner, the balance is just perfect. The stand out ballad "Feed Your Hunger" is stunning; Mikael's haunting vocals are in a class of their own here. Salute excel in catchy choruses and effortless melodies, the songs just seem to flow as if it is no boundaries for them; a true sign of professionalism! "Your Servant Tonight" is a song that could gain commercial success as it is just so well crafted with that endearing guitar chord infused into the chorus. Mikael is so good at bringing out the best in a song…"Tearing Me Down" is proof of that. The whole CD just smacks of class rock and is possibly the finest recording you will hear this year. Martin Kronlund's professional touch in the production department is just fantastic and makes this a "must have" CD....Salute are a band to watch out for, there is no doubt about that! WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   VAN HALEN ALBUM NO LONGER "JUST RUMORS"!: Press Release / "Warner/Chappell Music has extended its administration agreements with two original members of the legendary rock band Van Halen, Eddie and Alex Van Halen. Under the agreement, Warner/Chappell will continue to administer their catalog of works. The Grammy Award-winning Van Halen was formed in 1972 in Pasadena, California and released its first album in 1978, quickly becoming one of the most influential rock bands in history. In 2007, after more than three decades dazzling audiences with their energetic performances and establishing their catalog of songs as one of the most enduring in the history of popular music, Van Halen was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. With 11 studio albums, Van Halen is the 19th best-selling group of all time in the U.S., according to the RIAA, with more than 56 million albums sold in the U.S., 10 of them certified platinum or multi-platinum, six albums that reached No. 1 on The Billboard 200 and two of them, "Van Halen" and "1984", achieving diamond certification. Van Halen has been nominated multiple times by the American Music Awards and, in 1992, won "Favorite Heavy Metal/Rock Album" for the album "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge". "It's fantastic to continue our relationship with Van Halen, which is one of the most enduring and successful partnerships within our roster of songwriters," said Scott Francis, President, Warner/Chappell Music, and Chairman and CEO, Warner/Chappell Music U.S. "Since its inception, Van Halen has written driving melodic rock songs performed in groundbreaking style." During its more than three decades as a band, Van Halen has featured a number of different lineups and three different lead singers, and throughout has produced a string of multiplatinum albums that contained numerous No. 1 singles, including "Jump", "(Oh) Pretty Woman", "Why Can't This Be Love?", "Humans Being", "Won't Get Fooled Again" and "Me Wise Magic". Most recently, the band toured with founding brothers, Eddie and Alex Van Halen, its original lead singer, David Lee Roth, and Eddie's son, Wolfgang, playing bass. The group is currently in the studio recording an album with Roth that is due for release in 2011. ANBERLIN KICKS OFF HEADLINING TOUR IN SUPPORT OF DARK IS THE WAY, LIGHT IS A PLACE: (New York, NY - August 5, 2010) Universal Republic rockers Anberlin will launch a North American headlining tour at New Orleans' House of Blues on September 28th. Crash Kings and Civil Twilight will open on the outing, which includes stops at Los Angeles' House of Blues (October 8th) and The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza (October 30th). Anberlin will also play a show with 30 Seconds to Mars on September 30th in Oklahoma City. (See below for full tour itinerary.) "Impossible," the lead single from Anberlin's upcoming album, Dark Is The Way, Light Is A Place, is the #1 Most Added track at Alternative radio and the Greatest Gainer for the fourth consecutive week, moving up to #14*. The track is already on every major alternative station in the country, including KROQ-Los Angeles, Q101-Chicago, 89X-Detroit, The Edge-Dallas, KNDD-Seattle and 91X-San Diego. Available now on iTunes and Amazon, the single was recently the "pick of the week" in USA Today, which called it "insistent, insinuating...hard to resist." The video for "Impossible" was directed by Endeavor Media, who worked with the band on its "Feel Good Drag" video and lensed Owl City's "Fireflies." MTV2 recently gave "Impossible" its premiere and it's been added at Much More. You can check out the clip - and Spin.com's recent "Name That Band!" feature on Anberlin - at: www.spin.com/articles/why-theyre-called-anberlin. With "Impossible" exploding at radio, Universal Republic has moved up the release date of the new album by two weeks - to September 7th. Dark Is The Way, Light Is A Place - which takes its title from a line in Dylan Thomas' "Poem On His Birthday" - has been hailed as "one of the most anticipated albums of 2010" by Alternative Press. It's the band's fifth studio album and was produced by GRAMMY® Award winner Brendan O'Brien (Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen, Rage Against the Machine). The anthemic "We Owe This To Ourselves," another track from the upcoming album, was the main song used on ESPN's X-Games recently. Dark Is The Way, Light Is A Place follows Anberlin's 2008 breakthrough album, New Surrender, which was the band's second album to debut in the Top 20 of The Billboard 200. Its No. 1 single, "Feel Good Drag," ranks as the longest-charting single in Modern Rock history and was named 2009's "Rock Song of the Year" by FMQB. Formed in Winter Haven, FL in 2002, Anberlin has sold over 700,000 albums in its career and toured the world, sharing stages with American Rejects, My Chemical Romance, Taking Back Sunday, Paramore and many others. The band has been involved in numerous humanitarian efforts and lead vocalist Stephen Christian is a co-founder of Faceless International, an organization that defends exploited people worldwide. Anberlin is: Stephen Christian: Vocals, guitar; Joseph Milligan: Lead guitar; Devon Rexroat: Bass; Christian McAlhaney: Rhythm guitar; Nathan Young: Drums. For more information: www.anberlin.com / www.myspace.com/anberlin. FINAL LINE OF FIRE VIDEO BLOG: Line Of Fire's final video blog for the new album Momentum has been uploaded to YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=36k0JedWFS8. Check out the album and order online at: www.tribunalrecords.net.   CD SHOWCASE & REVIEWS UPDATED: New Reviews online today for: Terry Brock, First Signal, Stan Bush (Frontiers Records, out August 27); Jorn, Terra Nova (Frontiers Records, out now) and Ferreira & Jon Mullane (Escape Music, out now). Read the Reviews. CD Showcase has had one new title added - AOR's new best of LA Ambition (Escape Music, out now.). MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new features: - Skid Row - 30 Times Live (30 live tracks, all soundboard) - Motley Crue - Live @ Mielparque, Hiroshima, Japan 94 (Corabi era!) - Fiona - Squeeze (Feature Album) All other files for the last few months remain online - but not for much longer! Sign up now before the clear out and thanks for supporting MelodicRock.com. MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, August 05, 2010

SARAYA PULL OUT OF FIREFEST - SHOTGUN SYMPHONY LOCKED IN: Press Release / "Firefest is extremely saddened that Sandi Saraya, despite making the commitment to perform at the show in December 2009 has chosen at relatively short notice to back track on her original decision. After a period of will she won't she, she finally asked for a totally inappropriate amount of money for herself personally to actually perform. Firefest had already went way beyond the original deal in an effort to make the Saraya show happen, offering much more financially than we had agreed. In fact the improved package we offered was over double what we had agreed from day 1 but apparently it was not enough. We have nothing but the highest regard and respect for Chuck Bonfante and Tony Bruno who went WAAAY above and beyond the call of duty in order to make this happen. The guys are extremely upset and annoyed that Sandi would choose to make this first time reunion about the almighty $, but sadly it appears this is the case. For the record Chuck, Tony and Barry at no stage asked for anything extra and were more than happy with the original agreement. It is with great regret that we must inform you that Saraya will not be playing Firefest 2010." - Kieran, Bruce and the gang. "When Kieran Dargan first approached us with the idea of re-uniting after 20 years, we (the remaining band members) were all immediately on board. The question was whether or not Sandi, who now leads a very different and private life, would be into it. When she responded with an enthusiastic "definitely!" we were all surprised and delighted. However, nearly 8 months later and 3 months before the show it seems she requires a great deal of money to do this. This is not what Firefest is about, and neither Firefest nor the remaining band members were willing to be put in such an unexpected and unpleasant position regarding the personal demands of our former singer. Sadly we will be unable to perform at Firefest and we would like to extend our deepest and most sincere apologies to the many fans travelling from all over the world to see us." - Tony Bruno, Chuck Bonfante and Barry Dunaway. Firefest are delighted to announce that we have finally tempted long time melodic rock favourites Shotgun Symphony to come out of retirement to play Firefest 2010. Following the withdrawal of Saraya, the search began to find not only a suitable replacement but an act that had not actively played for some time. Shotgun Symphony fitted the bill, now all we needed to do was persuade them. Easy, right? Actually NO, as Shotgun had not played live since their last performance at The Gods in Penningtons in 2002, which was for many present at that show the performance of the entire weekend. Sadly the DVD recording of this was never released, which is a major travesty. Getting Charlie, Mike, Ed and Tracy on board was something of a task as the band hadn't performed in years, but after a few days of consideration Charlie called us back to say that the band would do it but ... it would be a ONE OFF PERFORMANCE OF THE ENTIRE DEBUT ALBUM that has never been done before. The band simply felt that if they were to reunite for anything there had to be a reason behind it. Charlie Calv explains: "We have been asked on numerous occasion over the years could we perform the album in its entirety. We always politely refused, not because we didn't want to but simply we were always working on something new that we felt important to include in the live set. Even our debut performance at the Gods in 1993 and the Tyketto tour that followed, we never once played the album in its entirety. We felt that this would be the perfect opportunity to finally let people hear something that we have been asked to do on countless occasions in the past. Hey, I know about FIrefest, each band has to do something special right?" The band will also add a few tracks to this from albums such as 'Line of Fire', 'Forget the Rain' and 'Sea of Desire', but it must be the lure of hearing the debut album in its entirety that makes this a very special occasion. Songs such as 'Highway to Tomorrow', 'Lost Child', 'Turn Around', 'What Happens to Love' and 'Way Back Home' are rightfully regarded as classics of the genre, and to this very day the Shotgun Symphony debut released in 1993 through Now and Then records retains it's place as possibly one of the greatest debut albums of the melodic rock genre. When one door closes, another one opens, and we're delighted that the five guys from New Jersey chose to walk through it - and will be delivering what undoubtedly will be one of the highlights of the weekend. Firefest Friday Sold Out - After selling out The Rig in 8 days, the Firefest Friday - featuring HEAT, Reckless Love & Crazy Lixx - was moved to the much larger capacity Trent University. This has now also sold out! No more tickets will be available for this show, so apologies to anyone who had not bought their ticket yet. Tickets are still available for the Saturday and Sunday, but these too are selling fast. Tickets can be bought from www.thefirefest.com or www.rocktopia.net. STYX SET TO LAUNCH "THE GRAND ILLUSION/PIECES OF EIGHT" TOUR THIS FALL: Styx - Tommy Shaw (vocals, guitars), James "JY" Young (vocals, guitars), Lawrence Gowan (vocals, keyboards), Todd Sucherman (drums) and Ricky Phillips (bass), along with the occasional surprise appearance by original bassist Chuck Panozzo­are getting ready to head out on the U.S. concert trail again this year. However, for this round of dates, the band has an extra-special treat planned - it won't be a typical Styx show. Along with the classic hits, the band will be performing 1977's The Grand Illusion and 1978's Pieces Of Eight in their entirety. Both albums spawned such hit singles and Classic Rock radio standards as "Come Sail Away," "Renegade," "Blue Collar Man" and "Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)." And as icing on the cake, a seven-song EP, entitled Regeneration, Volume 1, containing six newly re-recorded classics--"Come Sail Away," "Crystal Ball," "Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)," "Lorelei," "The Grand Illusion" and "Sing For The Day"­and a brand new track, "Difference In The World," will be available for sale at every stop along "The Grand Illusion/Pieces Of Eight" October/November tour route. "This is the most unique Styx concert ever," says singer/guitarist Tommy Shaw. "It's a hybrid experience of enjoying the artistry of the vinyl album and the energy and of our live performance. Some songs have never been performed live!" Spawned from a suburban Chicago basement in the early '70s, Styx would eventually transform into the virtual arena rock prototype by the late '70s and early '80s, due to a fondness for big rockers and soaring power ballads. Over the course of their 38-year career they've released 15 studio albums, 6 best-of compilations and 4 live albums, garnering 8 Top Ten singles. Styx has sold over 30 million albums worldwide. On the touring front, Styx has performed more shows since '99 than all of the previous years of its career combined. Two Super-Bowl appearances, Pollstar box office chart-topping tours with Def Leppard, Journey, Boston, REO Speedwagon, Bad Company, Foreigner (to name a few), two more studio albums and no end in sight, Styx continues to conquer the planet, one venue at a time. Check out the "The Grand Illusion/Pieces Of Eight" at any of the following stops: Thu 10/14 Evansville, IN The Centre (on-sale 8/13) Fri 10/15 Merrillville, IN Star Plaza Theatre (on-sale 8/14) Sat 10/16 Waukegan, IL Genesee Theatre (on-sale /14) Sun 10/17 Columbus, OH The Palace Theatre (on-sale 8/13) Tue 10/19 Chattanooga, TN Tivoli Theatre (on-sale 8/20) Thu 10/21 Melbourne, FL King Center (on-sale 8/20) Fri 10/22 Ft. Myers, FL Barbara B. Mann Perf Arts Hall (on-sale 8/20) Sat 10/23 Clearwater, FL Ruth Eckerd Hall (on-sale 8/20) Mon 10/25 Salem, VA Salem Civic Center (on-sale 8/20) Wed 10/27 Washington, DC Warner Theatre (on-sale 9/10) Thu 10/28 New York, NY Beacon Theatre (on-sale 8/6) Fri 10/29 Baltimore, MD Hippodrome Theatre (on-sale 8/20) Sat 10/30 Albany, NY Palace Theatre Albany (on-sale 8/19) Tue 11/2 Bangor, ME Bangor Auditorium (on-sale 8/27) Wed 11/3 Lowell, MA Lowell Memorial Auditorium (on-sale 8/20) Fri 11/5 Erie, PA Warner Theatre Erie (on-sale 8/27) Sat 11/6 Toledo, OH Stranahan Theatre (on-sale 8/27) Sun 11/7 Louisville, KY Louisville Palace (on-sale 8/27) Tue 11/9 Memphis, TN The Orpheum Theatre (on-sale 8/27) Thu 11/11 Nashville, TN Ryman Auditorium (on-sale 8/27) Fri 11/12 Biloxi, MS Hard Rock Casino & Resort (on-sale TBA) Sat 11/13 Atlanta, GA Cobb Energy Center (on-sale 8/27) WebLinks: www.Styxworld.com / www.facebook.com/Styxtheband / www.myspace.com/Styxtheband / www.twitter.com/Styxtheband / www.youtube.com/Styxtheband. 7TH HEAVEN - LIVE AT SOLDIER FIELD - DVD & PRESS UPDATES: First some fresh 7th heaven news: "7th heaven has released a "Live at Soldier Field" DVD of the show the band just did on July 30, 2010, with Kid Rock & Bon Jovi. This DVD contains 7 live songs from the band's "U.S.A. - U.K." CD. (Gravity, While You Dream, This Summers Gonna Last Forever, Cellophane, Better This Way, Save Your Life and Kill The Cycle). Video is in HD1080p with a 7 Camera Shoot. Audio is Live off the Sound Board with no overdubs. The DVD has bonus TV Appearances on ABC, NBC, FOX and WGN, as well as 3 Radio Commercials. You can order it now, DVD will ship within 2 weeks." I congratulated band founder Richard Hofherr on the recent achievements of the band. He sent me back an updated profile on the band's recent publicity. It's refreshing to be able to bring positive news about a truly independent AOR band getting well deserved attention. So, to summarize: - The USA-UK album is #19 on the Billboard charts for the Chicagoland market. - Better this Way is now getting spins on the biggest radio station in Chicago, as well as other markets in the US. - 7th heaven on TV: ABC - www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHQ3SCZ--Zs / NBC - www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_4p4Fdb9yY / FOX - www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGV1oXbHwUw / WGN - www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXexWLnSI_w. - Press: Chicago Tribune - www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/ct-live-0729-keith-semple-20100729-46,0,5337050.column - Chicago Sun Times - blogs.suntimes.com/music/2010/07/suburban_band_in_7th_heaven_wi.html. - Richie's own blog, written on the day the band played with Bon Jovi - 7thheavenband.blogspot.com/2010/07/playing-soldier-field-richies.html. - Finally...the band's mega 500 song release Jukebox is due out in 4 weeks. WebLinks: www.7thheavenband.com / www.ntdrecords.com / www.ntdworld.com / www.ntdmanagement.com.   xx JANE BOGAERT FIFTH DIMENSION: Right after her first piano lesson at the age of 10 years, Jane Bogaert wrote into her school satchel: 'Music is my life'. And until today, music is still the most important thing to her. The former Miss Switzerland actually now has really reached another dimension with the new album 'Fifth Dimension'. This was already obvious whilst being educated at the conservatoire in Biel and the school of musicals in Munich where she took singing lessons. Her voice has matured during a couple of first tries as a solo singer and back-up jobs for A-Ha, Thin Lizzy, Al Jarreau, David Hasselhoff, Toto Cutugno, Claudia Jung, Roland Kaiser or Uwe Ochsenknecht. As a result, she later worked for Al Bano & Romina Power, in the end took over Romina's parts completely. At the change of the millennium, Jane represented Switzerland at the Eurosong Festival in Stockholm, worked as singer and dancer with DJ Bobo and as a lecturer for 'pop vocal performances' at the University of Arts in Berne, Switzerland. Even more inspired and infected, Jane together with Robert Papst (Dominoe) and Guenther Skitschak (Dominoe) wrote the songs for 'Fifth Dimension' and engaged a couple of guests such as Jeff Scott Soto (W.E.T., Journey, Talisman, Malmsteen), Joe Lynn Turner (Deep Purple, Rainbow, Hughes-Turner Project), John 'Rhino' Edwards (Status Quo), Matt Beck (Rod Stewart) and Charlie Morgan (Elton John) to help her with the realization of the record. These well known names and the great production job by Robert Papst helped Jane a lot to get herself in top form as well. The result is a record with obvious roots coming from the 80s Rock music, which nevertheless creates an immense closeness, intensity and tension force – an album without deadlocked facets and shades. Track Listing: 1. Intro 2. Fifth Dimension 3. Keep Us Strong 4. Still There For Me - Duet With Jeff Scott Soto 5. Matters 6. Give It Up - Duet With Joe Lynn Turner 7. Was It The Moonlight 8. I'm A Rockstar 9. Superman Cape 10. Crazy 11. The Lady Needs An Upgrade 12. Locked And Tatooed 13. Spaceship 14. Open Your Heart. CD out now on Yesterrock: www.yesterrock.com / www.myspace.com/janeybogaert.   BOULEVARD DEJAVU: Cult AOR group Boulevard is (strangely enough) having their two studio albums re-issued again...less than a year since German label Yesterrock issued the albums. This time it is Polish label Metal Mind Records behind the re-issues - in limited edition Digipack, remastered yet again, but without any additional tracks. WebLinks: www.metalmind.com.pl / www.myspace.com/metalmindproductions. JUKE KARTEL HIT THE ROAD WITH SLASH AND A NEW SINGLE: Juke Kartel are excited to announce their 2010 return to their home ground of Australia. This will be in conjunction with the launch of their new album 'Levolution' - due for release August 20. JK will be debuting the first single off of the CD called "The Sign" with dates around the country, including support dates with Slash. Levolution has been recorded with leading producer Brian Virtue who is responsible for albums - 30 Seconds to Mars, Jane's Addiction and Velvet Revolver and who is also responsible for 6 of the new sounds featured on this new recording. The new album features six previously released songs off Juke Kartel's record "Nowhere Left to Hide" which have been remixed by Dan Korneff (My Chemical Romance, Cavo, etc). Remixed for US radio, the band wanted to give their loyal fan base back home a taste of where their sound is headed with these tracks before hitting officially releasing in the United States. Fronted by Toby Rand who rose to fame appearing in U.S. reality show Rock Star Supernova with Tommy Lee and Dave Navarro, Juke Kartel are set to become one of the most successful export bands from Australia with a new record label deal in place in the United States through Carved Records and under the management of some of the top American music heavyweights. Rand highly anticipates the release of the new material stating, "For me, the process we went thru with writing the new material on Levolution, created an opportunity to rise with a new found understanding and respect for our individual paths and surroundings. Recognizing the signs of obstacles or saviors and choosing what will elevate us to the next level. This experience allowed us to write about the freedom of stepping into our own power and create a unity that inspires us all to walk the journey together". Juke Kartel will also be supporting the solo tour of Slash who has become one of the band's biggest supports. They were given the opportunity to share the stage with Slash, Fergie, Ozzy Osbourne and Ronnie Wood at a Slash and friends concert in Norway & again in November for Slash's Charity Fundraiser LAYN (Billy Idol, Ozzy, Dave Navarro, Andrew Stockdale). Formed in Melbourne, Juke Kartel has its roots with front man Toby Rand, guitarists Todd Burman and Dale Winters and bassist Tommy Kende, who came together as young teenagers to form a rock band. Drummer Jason Pinfold joined the band two years ago and Juke Kartel was formed. The band has received many accolades in recent years and are able to claim the title of being the first unsigned artist to perform at the MTV Awards Australia. Other achievements include winning the 2008 People's Choice awards in Australia, winning the Best Unsigned Artist award in 2009 at the Music Oz Awards, opening for Nickelback in Australia and touring the US & Australia with Rockstar Supernova. Jenna Barnes, the Owner of Karacter Group says of Juke Kartel - "I have been working with a plethora of music icons for the past decade; nothing excites me more than to see developed talent emerge onto the scene that has the larger than life persona that Juke Kartel exudes. That's why we all have fought the fight despite the current state of the music industry to keep them here in the U.S. for the previous year. Thru that labor of love, we have formed an incredible powerhouse team in support of the band. Finally these five gentlemen will get the attention needed to accumulate the success they've worked so hard for and deserve after all of this time." Tour Dates: AUG 11 Festival Hall, Melbourne (Supporting Slash) AUG 12 The Tivoli, Brisbane (Supporting Slash) AUG 13 Hard Rick Cafe, Gold Coast AUG 14 Step Inn, Brisbane AUG 16 Festival Hall, Sydney (Supporting Slash) AUG 18 Sandringham Hotel, Sydney AUG 19 Performance Bull N Bush, Baulkham Hills AUG 20 Prince Of Wales, Melbourne AUG 22 The Sand Belt, Moorabin SPV SIGNS WORLDWIDE DEAL WITH POWERWORLD: Powerworld is the brainchild of Ex-Freedom Call/Ex-Moondoc bass player Ilker Ersin. Together with his band mates singer Andrew McDermott - Vocals - (ex-Sargant Fury/ex-Threshold), Barish Kepic - Guitars - (ex-Jaded Heart), Nils Neumann - Keyboards - (ex-Freedom Call) and Achim Keller - Drums - (Victory) he created a steaming mixture of traditional power metal with solid hard rock. The new album "Human Parasite" will be released in Europe on October 22nd and in the USA/Canada on November 9th. The band will embark on a european tour in early 2011. WebLinks: www.powerworld.org / www.myspace.com/powerworld / www.myspace.com/spvmusic.   CHARON'S NEW COMPILATION: All the bands have their greatest hits and misses, Charon has A-sides, B-sides & Suicides. Charon has released its first ever compilation album "A-sides, B-sides & Suicides". Double album includes almost 40 songs and two and a half hours of music from the first demo tape to the latest studio sessions. In addition to the album cuts there are unreleased songs from recording sessions, cover songs and demos. Charon will put out a teaser video every week in their official YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/charonband.

 

 

Wednesday, August 04, 2010

OUT NOW - JIMI JAMISON & JIM PETERIK "EXTRA MOMENTS": Pre-orders for Jimi Jamison & Jim Peterik were all shipped out at the start of the week. Apologies again for running a week late due to my back problems slowing things down. But the CDs are in the air and should be with all folks any time now. For future MelodicRock Records releases I will have a pre-order ship date and an official in-store release date (a week apart) and ALL pre-orders will be shipped prior to fulfill that commitment I made for those supporting the label via direct purchase here. And when possible there will be a bonus track to offer too. Thanks for the positive response thus far. This week was supposed to be announcement week for the label, after I penciled in last week to do it, but more often than not, everything takes longer in this business than anticipated, so stay tuned for news. Full details of MRCD7 however are very much on track for announcement...any day now! Purchase Jimi Jamison & Jim Peterik Extra Moments right now and orders will be shipped the next day. Soundbytes available at www.melodicrockrecords.com right now. And just for this week - how about a FREE full-length MP3 from the album to download. Check out: Cry Of The Wild Heart.   Purchase Options Extra Moments $15.00Extra Moments + MRCD5 $30.00Extra Moments + MRCD6 $40.00Extra Moments + MRCD4 $40.00 JOHN WAITE SIGNS NEW RECORD DEAL FOR NORTH AMERICA ON ICON VINTAGE LABEL: The Icon Music Group is pleased to announce the signing of John Waite to a North American record deal. The highly successful English rock singer and musician has made it big both as a lead vocalist for the bands The Babys and Bad English, as well as a solo artist with his #1 hit "Missing You." His highly anticipated forthcoming solo album of new material comes out early next year on the Icon/Vantage label. Waite's career spans over 30 years, including nine solo albums, chart-topping records and sold-out concerts around the world. The start of his success came in the late 1970s with his band The Babys. They had five studio albums together and a number of Top 40 hits including "Isn't It Time?" and "Everytime I Think Of You." Waite released his first solo album, Ignition, in 1982 which boasted the MTV/rock radio staple "Change." A year later, back with a new record No Brakes, Waite found himself at the top of the charts with his hit "Missing You." The song was huge around the world and made it to #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100. Twenty years on, "Missing You" remains a radio staple, covered by artists from Tina Turner to Rod Stewart, and most recently, pop artist Orianthi covered the classic in her 2010 album Believe. In the late 1980s, Waite released more solo albums before returning to the top of the charts during a two-album tenure as front man for the pop/rock super group Bad English, which featured Waite's former Babys bandmates Jonathan Cain and Ricky Phillips along with Neal Schon from Journey and drummer Deen Castronovo. The band's number one single, "When I See You Smile," sparked sold-out concert tours and a succession of Billboard Hot 100 Hits. But when the group's spark was gone, Waite packed his bags and returned to life as a solo songsmith. Waite now prefers to balance his life between singing on stage and composing and recording honest, heartfelt solo albums. He has written and recorded several songs for feature films. He even enjoyed a brief stint a few years ago on a Ringo Starr concert tour. Not one to be deterred by the changing face of the music industry, John Waite is content in simply being true to himself and his art. Waite is currently working on a new studio album with Matchbox 20 lead guitarist/songwriter Kyle Cook. "It's pretty much extraordinary," Waite says of the material he is creating with Cook, who he met through a mutual friend. "It's not like what people would expect from me. It's a step to the left. There's a rock imprint on the music and a melodic presence, but it's just shifted gears. It has an identity and a philosophy of its own, which is really fresh for me." The as-yet-untitled eclectic collection of brand new music, Waite's first studio album since 2007's Downtown…Journey of Heart, is set for an early 2011 release. Waite said, "I'm very excited about the new music, and I'm looking forward to a long and successful relationship with Icon." The deal was negotiated by The Icon Music Group Head of Business Affairs David McLees and Grant Noblin, along with Icon/Vantage President Tony Valenziano for The Icon Music Group. Bob Burwell (Dreamcatcher) handled negotiations on behalf of John Waite. Valenziano commented, "John Waite is an icon in the music industry, so we are really excited to have him join the Icon Music Group roster. We're more so excited about the new album. It shows the growth of an artist whose career, over three different stages, keeps pushing his art. I know his fans and new listeners will really grab hold of this stage of John's music. As Rui Da Silva (Icon Music Group Chairman) stated, most artists aspire to have a successful career, John Waite has had 3 of them (solo, along with being a member of The Babys and Bad English) and he asked me to make signing John to our label a priority." Webinks: johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl/johnwaitethegreatest / www.theiconmusicgroup.com. MR. MISTER UNRELEASED CLASSIC FINALLY SET TO SURFACE: Miracles do happen - Mr. Mister's classic unreleased album Pull (which was to be the last the band recorded together) is finally getting released officially. It looks like Sony are working on it with the band and original mix engineer Kevin Killen. It will also feature 2010 remastering from the master himself Bob Ludwig. An archive of a recent Richard Page interview discussing this and other aspects of his new solo record Perculiar Life can be found at: listenin.org/interviews/archive/artists/Mr+Mister/default.aspx. H.E.A.T. FESTIVAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Rock It! Magazine, Break Out, Rock, FFM Rock, AOR Heaven presents: H.E.A.T Festival 2010, 16th & 17.10.2010 The H.E.A.T. Festival in Germany celebrates its 3rd anniversary this year. It will be the first time that it will be a two-day event. We are sad to say that we had to change the location due to political circumstances, but we are very happy to have a new home in the great location h2o in Reichenbach/Fils near Stuttgart. The festival takes place the 16th and 17th of October. On the 15th there will be an opening night with the local cover rock band The Woodpeckers and the bands Downspirit (Ger) and Shotgun Express (Ger). Day 1 (16th of October): Wig Wam (Nor), H.E.A.T. (Swe), Soul Doctor (Ger), Bad Habit (Swe), Bangalore Choir (Usa), Bai Bang (Swe), Shylock (Ger). Wig Wam: The Norwegian Glam Rockers will play their first show in middle Europe for the latest album "Non Stop Rock'n Roll" on the festival. It will be their first German show in five years. Satisfaction guaranteed with great party glam rock! H.E.A.T: "Freedom Rock" is one of the best Hard rock releases this year and the Swedish youngsters are on the way to the top at the moment. This might be the first show with their yet unknown new singer after the departing of great Kenny Leckremo. Soul Doctor: One of the leading German Hard rock bands will hit the stage of the festival for the first time. The band with the great singer Tommy Heart (Also FAIR WARNING) and guitarist Chris Lyne released their best album so far with "Way Back To The Bone" in 2009 and they are ready to kick ass with their high class Rock'n Roll. Bad Habit: "Timeless- The Best Of Bad Habit" just hit the street and we are very proud the have the band to play Germany for the first time in over 20 years. The band is also very excited about their return and promised a best of show! Bangalore Choir: The US Hard rock legend, fronted by ex- Accept singer David Reece, are ready again to hit the stage. After the re-release of their only album "Human Target" (1992) on AOR Heaven earlier 2010, they announced the release of a new album for September 2010 on AOR Heaven as well. Don't miss this great band! Bai Bang: Swedish Glam Rock veterans make one of their rare live appearances on German stages at our festival. We are very happy to have them on the billing! Shylock: "Rockbuster", the fourth album of this German Melodic rocker, saw the light of day in February 2010 and marks a fantastic comeback after more than four years. Day 2 (17th of October): Ohrenfeindt (Ger), Babylon Bombs (Swe), Hartmann (Ger), Subway (Ger), Subsignal (Ger), Wicked Temptation (Ger), Redlight Ballerina (Ger). Ohrenfeindt: This is a German 3-piece from St.Pauli/Hamburg. Their street Rock'n Roll can be compared to AC/DC and their German vocals are as politically incorrect as the ones from great Bon Scott and with the same sense of humor! Babylon Bombs: The Swedish Glam heroes are on the road to promote their great album "Babylon's Burning". With their new singer Wick and many great songs they will kick great ass at our festival!! Hartmann: Hartmann as a band just released they third album simply called "3". Frontmann Oliver Hartmann should be known for his great work for his former band At Vance and his participation at the great Avantasia project. Other than them his band is playing a modern style of classic rock. Great singer, great artist! Subway: With "Lola's Themes", release date October 8th, 2010 on Fastball Music/Sony, this German Meldicrock outfit marks his comeback in over 8 years. Singer Francis Soto reformed the band in 2009 and they are ready to hit the stage again after such a long break. Subsignal: The German Progressive band just came back from their very successful European tour with scene veterans SAGA. They fit perfect to all the Hard rock bands on the billing, cause they know how to rock!! Wicked Temptation: US Hard rock from Germany, comparable to Dokken or Lynch Mob. Redlight Ballerina: Great German newcomer band. Founded back in late 2009 they already managed to get a slot on our festival. With their sound somewhere between Fifth Angel and Mötley Crüe without a doubt they are one of the hottest unsigned bands in Germany at the moment! Facts: Friday, 15.10.2010 Opening Night Doors: 07:00 pm cet Start: 08.00 pm cet Ticket: € 10,00 Pre-sales: € 7,00 Ticket for this are only available at the venues website. Saturday, 16.10.2010 DAY 1 Doors: 02:00 pm cet Start: 03:00 pm cet Ticket (Festival, 2-days): € 45,00 Pre-Sales (Festival, 2-days) € 38 + Tax Ticket only Saturday: € 33,00 Pre-sale only Saturday: € 28,00 + Tax Tickets available at the Festival website, the venue website. Ticketmaster and Metaltix. Sunday, 17.10.2010 DAY 2 Doors: 02:00 pm cet Start: 03:00 pm cet Ticket (Festival, 2-days): € 45,00 Pre-Sales (Festival, 2-days) € 38 + Tax Ticket only Sunday: € 33,00 Pre-sale only Sunday: € 28,00 + Tax Tickets available at the Festival website, the venue website. Ticketmaster, AOR Heaven and Metaltix. WebLinks: www.heat-festival.de / www.h2o-diehalle.de / www.aorheaven.com / www.ticketmaster.de / www.metaltix.de. We hope to see you all in Reichenbach! - Eddy Freiberger/H.E.A.T Festival Promoter.   SR-71 FRONTMAN MITCH ALLAN INTRODUCES SATELLITE: From singer/frontman Mitch Allen himself: "Hey Everybody, It has been a long time since I have written one of these. Some of you may have wondered what happened to me after SR-71. Well, after "1985" became such a huge hit, I moved to LA where I have been Writing and Producing for other bands. I just needed a break from life on the road and some time to figure out what I wanted to do. Well, I finally figured that out and now I am releasing my first music in 5 years! The name of my new band is Satellite. I love it with all my heart and I'm hoping you will too. SO much so that I wanna give the our first single, "Say The Words" for FREE. Just go to our site: www.Satellite-Music.com and you will see a music player on the home page. Notice that in the "price" button of the first song it says "FREE". Just click that button and the song is yours. If you like it please do 2 things for me. #1 send it to all of your friends!!! Seriously, I am trying to get this song to 1,000,000 people by November and I need your help to do that! The second is, buy the rest of the CD. It's only $5. You can get it right on our site of pop over to iTunes to buy it. The iTunes link is: itunes.apple.com/us/album/ring-the-bells-ep/id384325889. We also shot an amazing video for "Say The Words" directed by Walter May who directed Katy Perry's "Your So Gay" video. You can find it here on you tube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1AnSXCK3h4. Now the first thing you are gonna wonder about is why I am not the lead singer. The answer is simple, because Steven McMorran has one of the most beautiful voices I have ever heard and he someone I love listen too listen to. And that's what this band is too me, something I wanna listen to. If I wasn't in this band I would still have this CD on repeat all day.   NEW BLOOD FOR ACCEPT FANS: Blood Of the Nations is the first Accept studio album in over a decade and the first to feature Mark Tornillo on vocals. It was recorded over the winter of 2010 at Backstage studio in Derbyshire, England with celebrated British producer, Sabbat guitarist and long-time Accept fan Andy Sneap (Megadeth, Exodus, Arch Enemy, Nevermore). Wolf sums it up plain and simple: "Something amazing has happened. We seem to have been transformed from one world into another… these new songs simply burst out of a vault that has been locked up for too long! We're not sure where Blood of the Nations and all this new excitement will ultimately take us; we only know one thing: We never had it this good!" A vibrant and mesmerizing album, Blood Of The Nations harnesses everything that earned Accept the status of a true heavy metal legend… thunderous riffs, blinding guitar leads with intricate melodies, aggressive vocals and infectious, undiluted metal songs with a bite that are destined to once again put Accept where they belong - the oligarchy of the heavy metal world.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Mike Tramp & The Rock 'N' Roll Circuz is in the studio working on album number two, set for release in the first quarter of 2011. Mike told me recently that: "the new album, which will be the next step, will be a full guitar album." Mike has also written a tribute track, which you'll hear more about shortly...right here. Keep up to date at: www.myspace.com/miketramp. Arizona Rock/Metal trio Hellen is back in the studio recording their first full-length CD. The trio features Mindy DuPonte (drums & lead vocals), Ryan Abel (guitar and vocals), and Andrew Heath (bass & vocals) In addition, vocalist and drummer Mindy DuPonte was recently endorsed by Pearl drums, Supernatural cymbals, and Vic Firth drum sticks. www.myspace.com/hellen. An interview in Spanish with Flamedown, the new band from Hardway's Charlie Girdina can be read at: www.rockmelodico.com/2010/07/flamedown-el-westcoast-viene-marchando.html. A new Deep Purple Biography has been written (in Dutch!), and is due out December 2010. The Deep Purple Appreciation Society has already posted a notice for the people out there, interested in buying the book. More info: www.whodoyouthinktheyare.com. Gibson's 50 Best Guitar Albums Of All Time can be seen in full at: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/top-50-guitar-albums-0730/. TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest Podcast (episode #104), featuring Enuff Z Nuff Vocalist Donnie Vie. Donnie took time out of his busy schedule to discuss Enuff'Z Nuff's current release Dissonance, as well as their trek over to Europe for the Download Festival. Donnie gives us the lowdown on how Dissonance came together as well as what it is like being sober. Interview lasts approx. 30 min. MARCO MENDOZA TALKS WHITESNAKE: Marco Mendoza (Thin Lizzy, Ex-Whitesnake) talked to Rockpages TV about his entire career and he spoke about his relationship with David Coverdale and the reason behind his departure from Whitesnake. Here's the excerpt and please find the whole interview on camera at the bottom of the text: Rockpages.gr: Marco, why did you leave Whitesnake? Marko Mendoza: I started working with David Coverdale back in 1996…I've always been a fan of Whitesnake and David, of course…David, he has a one of a kind voice. Period. By the first phrase of a song, you can instantly recognize David Coverdale. For me, again, it was another highlight of my career when I got the call from him…I thought that it was a friend pulling a joke on me, but it turned out to be David! We had a meeting and we clicked really well and we started working on some songs that ended up in his solo record called "Into The Light". Great experience with a great bunch of musicians…I connected with David in a big way. But, it was unfortunate the timing…when David asked me to do a world tour with him, I found out that my father was diagnosed with cancer, stomach cancer and I couldn't be part of that touring band. David really understood…he was really cool about it. In my opinion the Whitesnake line-up with me, Doug (Aldrich), Reb (Beach), Tommy (Aldridge) and Timothy (Drury) was the best ever! But, things started to change after a period of time…different perceptions…I don't know…I wanted to see this Whitesnake line-up doing lots of things, creating new music and not just be a touring entity. The problem was that we took some really long pauses and as I said I gotta be creative as a musician. If my memory serves me right, we got to a point when we didn't know what's going on…we didn't have a schedule on when we will record an album or if we would record an album whatsoever. It was at that time when Neal Schon called me to do the Soul Sircus record and of course I said "yes". Another great experience…Maybe, David wanted me to be an exclusive member of Whitesnake…I don't know. I miss it but I don't regret it. I followed my instincts. Read the full interview on: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=4403&type=1&lang=EN.

 

 

Tuesday, August 03, 2010

BUCKCHERRY'S NEW CD ALL NIGHT LONG OUT AUGUST 3: (New York, NY) - Rockers Buckcherry release their fifth studio album on Tuesday, as All Night Long spurred by the single of the same name climbs the charts. The band are set to bring the party to late-night talk show "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" with a raucous performance on Thursday, August 12 - on ABC at 12:05AM, ET/PT. See the video for the title track here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FkRAhHxY6FQ. In their August issue on stands now, Spin declared the album the "ultimate all-night rager soundtrack". The very same issue also features an in-depth Q&A feature with Buckcherry frontman Josh Todd. The title track of the All Night Long has been called "The top down anthem" by Billboard and "a rousing instantly memorable anthem" by Classic Rock and is currently heating up the airwaves, coming in at #13 on the Active Rock and #12 on the Mainstream Rock charts, respectively. Metal Hammer sums it up with Josh Todd and Keith Nelson are here to stay-get used to it," Buckherry's "Still rocking the classic way." The album is released on the band's original independent rock label, Eleven Seven Music. Best Buy will feature a special limited edition deluxe version of All Night Long, which includes a bonus EP featuring six original acoustic tracks. This special version of the CD with the acoustic EP will also be available digitally exclusively from Napster. In other Buckcherry news, the band is currently on the road playing select tour dates and will gear up for an extensive North American tour supporting Nickelback beginning September 14th in Nashville, TN at the Bridgestone Arena. Please see below for a full list of Buckcherry tour dates. In a message posted by Josh Todd on Buckcherry.com from the whole band, he said, "All Night Long" is a very special record for us. We recorded it up at Keith's house, and got to really take our time making it the best it could be. This is the longest running line-up in Buckcherry history. We've made the best our best music, and it's because we truly enjoy and respect each other - that's how great music gets made. We wanted to record songs that were timeless, that you can put on and leave on." In their more than decade-long career, multi-platinum artists Buckcherry have established themselves as a definitive hard rock band with a massive presence at radio. Hits such as "Lit Up," "Crazy Bitch," and "Sorry" have propelled the band's sales to more than 3 million albums worldwide and have garnered Buckcherry two Grammy nominations. Their most recent album, 2008's Black Butterfly, earned the band their first-ever Top Ten Billboard album debut, with the album coming in at #8. Black Butterfly was deemed the "Album Of The Year" by Entertainment Weekly and "Best Rock Album" by iTunes. For more information, please visit: www.buckcherry.com.   xx MELODIC ROCK FEST 2 REVIEWS: Fireworks Magazine sent their US representative out to review MelodicRockFest 2 - held in the Chicago suburb of Elgin May of this year. A full review of the event can now be read at: www.rocktopia.co.uk. Don't forget full coverage is also available at RockEyez.com. MELODIC BRIEFS: Great stuff! Rockin, Rollin' & Brawlin'! Joe Elliott and friends: www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/bizarre/3076016/Rockers-Joe-Elliott-and-Ian-Hunter-in-30-man-brawl.html. Metal Shrine talked to Ron Keel a while ago - the interview is now posted at: metalshrineblogg.blogspot.com/2010/08/intervju-med-ron-keel-for-en-tid-sedan.html#links. A new John 5 interview talking about his new solo album, his tribute to David Lee Roth, his signature Fender guitars, and tentative plans for Rob Zombie to tour Australia in February is online here: iheartguitarblog.com/2010/07/john5.html. And Slash is interviewed about his forthcoming Australian tour, his new CD, and his various signature guitar products: iheartguitarblog.com/2010/08/interview-slash.html. Anberlin's new single Impossible is out now, with the new album coming out two weeks sooner on September 7. KISS - NEW ALBUM IN 2011 & STICKING TO THEIR BEST TRACKS LIVE: Rolling Stone Online recently attended a live Kiss show and the feature can be read at: www.rollingstone.com/music/news/17386/187008. From with the feature, Paul Stanley is quoted: "Stanley said that the band plans to go back in to the studio next February and release an album as early as next summer, but in the meantime, Kiss are content to deliver a hit parade for the Hottest Show on Earth tour. "We don't want to fall into the thing where you have to play obscure songs," said Stanley. "I'm a big believer that a song is obscure for a reason: Songs that aren't as popular aren't as good." Set List: "Modern Day Delilah" "Cold Gin" "Let Me Go, Rock 'N Roll" "Firehouse" "Say Yeah" "Deuce" "Crazy Nights" "Calling Dr. Love" "Shock Me" "I'm an Animal" "100,000 Years" "I Love It Loud" "Love Gun" "Black Diamond" "Detroit Rock City" Encore: "Beth" "Lick It Up" "Shout It Out Loud" "I Was Made for Lovin' You" "God Gave Rock 'N' Roll To You II" "Rock and Roll All Nite". LINE OF FIRE - EPISODE 6: BONUS TRACKS AND CD OUT NOW!: As is customary in this day and time, Line Of Fire have recorded a couple of cover songs as bonus tracks. Learn what songs were chosen, why they were chosen, and how they will be available in Episode #6 of Line Of Fire's Momentum web series. The band has autographed all pre-orders and even some extra copies for all the fans who still want to order the album via our e-store exclusively. If you pre-ordered a copy it will be shipping Monday (8/2) and you shall receive it soon! We want to thank all the amazing fans who have taken advantage of our pre-order special and more importantly have shown their support for Line Of Fire! Track List: 1. It Takes Time 2. Obsession 3. Give Me All 4. I'll Be The One Tonight 5. I Belong 6. The Fire Never Dies 7. I'm Crying For You 8. In The Stone 9. Undone 10. Ghost In Your Heart 11. Breaking The Chains (CD Only – Bonus Track). "Momentum is one of the absolute best melodic rock albums released this year, and proof positive that the Europeans don't have a monopoly on high quality modern melodic rock." - Hard Rock Haven. Episode #6: www.youtube.com/watch?v=w98dRZ4YTLA.   A BENEFIT OF LOVE FOR NEW JERSEY READERS: George and Laura Rumbol's daughter Janet, lost her husband in September. They were together for 10 years...since they were kids. Janet is now left with 3 children to raise. Her oldest son, Jaymes, who is 5 is autistic, Gina who will be 4 next week, and Dominick who just turned 2 ...she is really struggling in a lot of ways. This is a benefit to offer love, and support for Janet, and the kids. Please come out to this special show. 100% of all money raised will go to the Dowdy family. If you can't be at the benefit, and would like to make a donation that would be so wonderful. Donations can be sent to Janet Hill Dowdy c/o George Rumbol, 1498 Manduit Street, Thorofare NJ 08086. Bands performing on this date are: Dead End Kids - Past & Present members will be performing...Bill Mattson - George Rumbol - Kelly James. Performing Together On One Stage - One Special Appearance Only. Yes, The Boys Are Back In Town! Plus: Diamond Dogs "Featuring Georgie Rumbol", Skeleton Crew, Jailbreak, Motornature, FrankenSabbath, Zilch, Kickin Chickins, Dino and the Missiles, Bill Mattson (performing hits songs from Tangier), Mark Evans (Heavens Edge) performing a very special acoustic set. Special Appearance By Stand up comedian "Valerie Farr". The Pennant East has been South Jersey's #1 Rock Club for the last 16 Years. It's a great club with 2 big bars, great sound & lights, a huge stage, free parking, great drink specials, and it's open until 3am. The Pennant is very easy to get to, and less then 10 minutes from Philly on Crescent Boulevard & Kings Hwy, Bellmawr, NJ 08031 (Rt. 130 North)

 

 

Monday, August 02, 2010

ORIGINAL HI INFIDELITY DEMO TAPES FOUND: From Billboard.com & Speedwagon.com: REO Speedwagon plans Hi Infidelity 30th Anniversary / by Gary Graff, Billboard / Though REO Speedwagon frontman Kevin Cronin says that he's "not one for nostalgia," he's enthusiastic about the band's two-year plan to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its biggest-selling album, 1980's "Hi Infidelity" -- which includes a deluxe reissue and possibly a tour playing the full album. "This is 2010, so we're kind of celebrating 30 years since we recorded the album," Cronin tells Billboard.com. "Next year is 2011 -- 30 years since 1981, the year that rocked our world...The 'Hi Infidelity' record was such a turning point for us, just on a personal and professional level. And an awful lot of people took this music into their lives, into their hearts. It's just too special of a time to ignore, so I just decided for this anniversary I'm going to embrace it and go for it...We're milking it for everything it's worth!" "Hi Infidelity" was REO's only No. 1 album and the top-selling rock release of 1981. It's been certified nine-times platinum and spawned four Top 40 hits, including the chart-topping "Keep on Loving You" and the Top 5 "Take It on the Run." And, Cronin adds, it came at a time when REO was "literally on the brink of being dropped by our label. This was kind of our last chance." Now the group and its fans will have multiple opportunities to relive "Hi Infidelity." The group is performing the album's entire first side, with some subtle re-arrangements, on its current summer tour with Pat Benatar; meanwhile, Cronin says, REO is talking about performing the complete album in 2011 -- which it's only done once before, for an XM satellite radio broadcast. Also on tap for next year is a deluxe edition of "Hi Infidelity," which will likely include the original demos that REO's manager recently found in his garage. "He found a box that said 'REO' on it," Cronin recalls. "It was mostly old photographs, but he dropped it off at my house and when I went through it there it was, a tape from Crystal Recording Studios, July 1980. No one knew where they were. We searched the vaults in New York, L.A. -- a full cavity search, you might say -- and no one found them. So we were like, 'All right, I guess that's our holy grail. We'll keep searching for them'. " Cronin says it took significant work to get the tape into usable shape, but the results were as good as he remembered. "It's pretty fun to listen to -- no keyboards, no backing vocals, just guitar and lead vocals. On the finished 'Hi Infidelity,' about half of it is performances that were on that demo tape. There was just some magic in those performances, so hopefully we'll include that in the deluxe set." Other plans for the reissue are still being set, as are REO's tour plans for 2011. Meanwhile, Cronin says the current edition of REO is in a "creative spurt" that he hopes will yield the group's first set of new material since 2007's "Find Your Own Way Home" (not counting the 2009's holiday album, "Not So Silent Night.") Cronin is playing a new song in concert -- which he says will be called either "Can't Stop Loving You" or "Unfinished Poem" -- and he's pleased that "this is another one of those tight periods for the band. You can't take it for granted when you get five guys all in the same mindspace -- like we were for 'Hi Infidelity.' It's a real special thing" CORRECTED 1994 TRACK LIST: The wrong track list for 1994: 'Please Stand By...' re-issue was sent out Friday, and the label has now updated the info. It is as follows: 1. Please Stand By... 2. Wait For Me 3. Don't Break Up 4. Our Time Will Come 5. Wild In The Streets 6. Stop This Heartache 7. So Bad 8. Nerves Of Steel 9. Keep Ravin' On Bonus Tracks: 10. Back In Your Arms Again (unreleased outtake) 11. Get It Up, Get It Right (unreleased outtake) 12. You Better Run (unreleased outtake) 13. Our Time Will Come (alternative analogue take). AhORa ROCK PODCAST – 2 EDITION, INCLUDING AWESOME UNRELEASED TEN TRACK: The second edition of the AhORa Rock Podcast is now available for download and online access. As well as featuring all the latest and greatest AOR releases including Issa, Two Fires, Tony Harnell, 8 Point Rose, Only Child, Michael Kiske and more, this very special edition also includes the awesome unreleased Ten track 'Dawn Star'. This song was removed from the band's epic 'Babylon' CD just 4 weeks before release, and features Vinny Burns on guitar and Deep Purple's Don Airey on keyboards. An absolute must for melodic rock fans everywhere. AhORa Rock is accessible exclusively on www.rocktopia.net. Just register and either listen online or download for free. Go to it!!! MELODIC BRIEFS: Rick Springfield returns to Europe for tour dates from November 25 to December 8. Details to be revealed shortly, but the first posted date is Prattel, Club Z 7 on December 3. Terra Nova Front man Fred Hendrix talks about their new release on Frontiers Records "Come Alive" on RockEyez.com: www.rockeyez.com. MASS CLASSIC RE-ISSUES: The Iowa-based Christian hard rock and metal label Retroactive Records has signed classic metal legends Mass to reissue two pieces of Classic Metal History! Retroactive Records will reissue the original self-released 1984 four song self-titled EP (never before released on CD) with original artwork. The EP sold over 10,000 copies on vinyl in the Boston area alone! 1984 Mass EP (Independent release) 1. Looking Good 2. Pedal to the Metal 3. Holy One 4. Still of the Night. Retroactive Records will also be releasing the band's debut album from 1982, originally recorded for A&M Records but never before released until now! Even the band did not have listening copies of this album until having the original tapes baked and transferred to CD for this special reissue! 1982 A&M - Fighter Album 1. Watch Her Walk 2. Part of Me 3. Too Far Gone 4. Do You Love Me 5. Voyager 6. Fighter 7. Can you see it again 8. Slip of the Lip 9. Change your way 10. Bad Man's Reputation. Both albums are set to release late October 2010! "Look for the "MASS"ive promotion to come". Retroactive Records (classic rock & metal) www.retroactiverecords.net.

 

 

Friday, July 30, 2010

TUNE IN NEXT WEEK: Next week is time to reveal some of the details that has been going on behind the scenes here. Full details of MRCD7 will be revealed as well as the details behind the next 3-4 MelodicRock Records releases, due out over the next few months. Pre-order details for MRCD7 are also revealed as will be some audio samples for some killer up and coming fresh talent! KISKE/SOMMERVILE DIGITAL SINGLE ANNOUNCED: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the digital only release of the single track "Silence" from the much anticipated album featuring the collaboration between singers Amanda Somerville and Michael Kiske on August 20. "Silence" was written by the Primal Fear team featuring bassist / producer Mat Sinner and guitarist Magnus Karlsson. The song explores a different, more atmospheric and melodic direction for the two writers. According to Kiske "The video shoot was a long day from 6 AM to midnight, but since everyone was so nice and easy going, it was a very pleasant experience. Especially Amanda and Sander Gommans are such fine people and made it an extraordinary journey. I do like the song 'Silence' a lot, nice drama and good melodies". The video clip of "Silence" can be watched on YouTube now. Click on the image and enjoy the clip:   "Silence" video, along with the other clip "If I Had A Wish" and a making of documentary will be available on bonus DVD which will come together with the full album to be released in Europe on September 24 and USA on October 12 on Frontiers Records. LATEST ROCK CANDY RE-ISSUES OUT NOW: These releases are available immediately from the Rock Candy website (www.rockcandyrecords.com) for a discounted price of £11.99 each ending August 16. The Godz 'S/T' CANDY075 - In the beginning there were the Godz. And the Godz created rock 'n roll. Well, that may be slightly exaggerating things a tad but you get the picture. Formed in Columbus, Ohio this uncompromising four man hard rock band rapidly established a reputation as one of the most fearless, uncompromising acts on the scene. Moving quickly, Casablanca offshoot Millenium Records were quick to spot their potential, snapping them up as a sort of biker rock antidote to the flamboyant stadium cavorting of label mates Kiss and Angel. Produced by Grand Funk Railroad drummer Don Brewer, the Godz debut album is an explosive statement laced with thick, bottom heavy riffs and simplistic, almost primal, guitar solos, whilst the lyrical content makes Kiss seem positively intellectual by comparison. Best of all, however, is the pure unrelenting power of the rhythm section; band leader and bassist Eric Moore outgonzoing Ted Nugent by a country mile. Make no mistake, this is a musical Mad Max soundtrack written and performed with motorcycles, whiskey and women in mind. Tracks such as 'Gotta Keep A Runnin'', 'Under The Table' and a choice interpretation of Golden Earring's 'Candy's Going Bad' make for some of the best hard rock music to have emerged from the mid seventies. The Godz, it must be said, were veritable rock 'n roll machines made of the finest metal. Beware false prophets. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album, additional previously unseen photos spread out over a 16 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1) Go Away 2) Baby I Love You 3) Guaranteed 4) Gotta Keep A Runnin' 5) Under The Table 6) Cross Country 7) Candy's Going Bad. 1994 'Please Stand By' CANDY078 - Fronted by the charismatic Karen Lawrence, 1994: were one, in a long list, of great North American hard rock bands that time and fame overlooked. Signed, in a blaze of publicity, to the influential A&M label (their debut album was produced by seventies studio wizard Jack 'Aerosmith' Douglas), and hailed as the next big thing, the band failed to make the commercial impact all had hoped for. They did however win enough consumer and label support to be sent back to the studio for a follow up album... 'Please Stand By'. This, their sophomore album, was released in 1979, Geoff Barton, then writing for Sounds magazine, and now, of course, Editor At Large of Classic Rock, made no secret of his love for 1994's music and the charms of Karen Lawrence, going so far as to acclaim them as a veritable cracker box of explosive guitar based rock topped off by a stellar performance from one of the best (female) vocalists of the era; a deadly yet cool combination of Heart and Aerosmith. Produced by the dynamic duo of Eddie Leonetti (Angel, Legs Diamond) and Jack Douglas, the album was lavished with fervent praise, attracting rave reviews both at home and abroad. Too bad then that there was a failure to capitalise on this interest, leaving the band high and dry with no hope of making any further headway. It was a pity indeed but at least we still have the music to cherish. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4 bonus tracks, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album, interview with Karen Lawrence and additional previously unseen photos spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Please Stand By... 2. Wait For Me 3. Don't Break Up 4. Our Time Will Come 5. Wild In The Streets 6. Stop This Heartache 7. So Bad 8. Nerves Of Steel 9. Keep Ravin' On Bonus Tracks: 10. Back In Your Arms Again (unreleased outtake) 11. Get It Up, Get It Right (unreleased outtake) 12. You Better Run (unreleased outtake) 13. Our Time Will Come (alternative analogue take).   xx TRIUMPH, RICHIE CALLISON AND ASPHALT BALLET INTERVIEWS: Interviews with Mike Levine (Triumph), Gary Jeffries (Asphalt Ballet) (is a reunion in the works?) and Richie Callison (Geezer Butler Band, Head East) will be broadcast Saturday, July 31, 6-8 pm EST on the FDP Show, heard exclusively on JFL Radio. Mike Levine of the Canadian three man band Triumph discusses the 'Magic Power' of the '80s rock legend. Between 1975 and 1988, Levine, vocalist/guitarist Rik Emmett and vocalist/drummer Gil Moore thrilled audiences with Triumph's signature style of classy, catchy, feel-good hard rock, and their ground-breaking lights-and-lasers concert productions were legendary. The group recently released " Triumph Greatest Hits Remastered" and their single "Lay It On The Line" is featured in new Adam Sandler/ David Spade movie "Grownups." During the interview, Levine talks about the group's latest happenings, as well as some old bar stories about John Entwistle (The Who) and Joe Walsh (The Eagles). He also gives his thoughts about the state of rock guitar. Lead singer Gary Jeffries talks to the guys about 90's rockers Asphalt Ballet recording their first cd in almost twenty years. The group won MTV's Headbangers Ball eight straight weeks in the early '90s. In addition to the band's latests, Gary talks about filling in with Guns n Roses and life on the LA strip. Rocker Richie Callison just released a solo CD that is rapidly gaining airplay world wide. Callison is best known as the lead singer for The Geezer Butler Band, and as lead guitarist/vocalist for classic rockers Head East. The FDP Show can be heard Saturdays 6-8 pm only on JFL Radio, the internet's home of rock & roll. The show broadcast digitally via Nokia Mobile, Stream Finder, iTunes (Classic Rock) and other digital outlets. The show is also accessible from any cell phone via UpSnap (call 704.772.7627 and enter code 3055), as well as via podcast following the airing of the show. MASSIVE GALLERY OF LIVE RUSH PHOTOS PUBLISHED: Rock photographer Matt Becker of Melodic Rock Concerts traveled to Philadelphia on Wednesday night to capture Rush in action on their Time Machine Tour. A full gallery of over 50 photos is available at this link: www.flickr.com/photos/melodicrockconcerts/sets/72157624565285370/, and the review can be seen at this location: melodicrockconcerts.com/2010/07/23/live-review-rush-still-astounds-no-time-machine-required/." TUFF/SHAMELESS SET TO EMBARK ON TOUR AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2010: The band will be fronted by Sunset Strip veteran - Tuff vocalist Stevie Rachelle. "I am honored to still be able to come and perform for the European fans. They have always embraced our music since my first visit with Tuff back in 1991. Now it's nearly 20 years later and to think I am going back yet again - it's a dream come true." Also on board will be drummer Jimi "Gunz" Lord who played drums for the band during the "Religious Fix" years. The Shameless bookends on bass & guitar will be Alexx Michael and his partner in crime BC. The songs will be a mix of tracks from both bands. Including the Tuff Glam Rock classic debut "What Comes Around…Goes Around". Fan favorites like "The All New Generation", "I Hate Kissing You Goodbye", "So Many Seasons" and the new millenniums global mega smash "American Hair Band". The Shameless tunes to be featured are "Non Stop City", "Steal The Girlz" & the Munich based bands most downloaded track, "Queen For A Day". The groups past tours have featured Bruce Kulick of Kiss (2000), Steve Summers of Pretty Boy Floyd (2007) and Davy Vain of VAIN showed up and jammed with the group in Germany (2009). This year will be no different, as the tour looks to welcome a yet to be named special guest or two. Tuff and Shameless combined have released over a dozen discs of music, and have a catalog of over 20 releases (including DVDs) in the last 20 years that have featured countless stars from the 80s genre'. "We have friends everywhere, you never who might show up and jam." Says the Tuff front man. Stockholm Rock Out Festival in Sweden will be the final date of the tour. The first Scandinavian appearance for any of the members. "We are beyond excited to play for our European fans again. Especially France, Belgium & Sweden as these will be new stops for us. We cannot wait." adds Alexx Michael "We have friends and fans on every continent and we vow that South America and Japan are next – but for now, Europe, get ready to rock!" Dates, Venues, Cities & Countries: August 26th 2010 "Garage Deluxe" Munich Germany August 27th 2010 "Rock City" Uster Switzerland August 28th 2010 "Paunchy Cats" Lichtenfels Germany August 29th 2010 "Rock It " Arnsberg Germany September 1st 2010 " Banale Estivo" Ponte di Brenta Italy September 2nd 2010 "TBA" Italy September 3rd 2010 "TBA" Trentino Italy September 4th 2010 "Rock Club" Ronchi dei Legionari Italy September 5th 2010 "TBA" Italy September 7th 2010 "Thunderbird Lounge" Saint-Etienne France September 8th 2010 "Classic Rock Café" Roeselare Belgium September 9th 2010 "TBA" Copenhagen Denmark September 10th 2010 "Club Dirty Harry" Järnvägsgatan Växjö Sweden September 11th 2010 "Stockholm Rock Out Festival" Stockholm Sweden For more information please visit: www.myspace.com/stevierachelle / www.myspace.com/shamelessonline. INTERVIEW BRIEFS: RockMusicStar just posted an interview conducted last Friday with Keith Nelson of Buckcherry: www.RockMusicStar.com/buckcherry. Greek Hard Rockers Outloud, featuring Mark Cross (ex-Helloween, Firewind) and Bob Katsionis (Firewind), is preparing their second studio album and Rockpages Web Magazine was there to talk with the band (Video included in the bottom of the interview...). Link: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=4348&type=1&lang=EN. RONNIE JAMES DIO WINS THE ORANGE AMP, RELENTLESS ENERGY DRINK KERRANG! ICON AWARD 2010: Orange Amps were proud to sponsor the Relentless Energy Drink Kerrang! Icon Award, presented to Ronnie James Dio last night. His wife Wendy Dio, was tearful as she accepted the Icon Award on his behalf at the star studded event held at The Brewery, London. Ronnie, who died earlier this year, was widely hailed as one of the greatest voices in heavy metal, renowned for his consistently powerful voice. He performed with, amongst others, Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell and his own band Dio. He was a metal legend who touched many with his music, message and magic. He was awarded the Classic Rock Metal Guru Award in 2006, and inducted into the Rock Walk of Fame in 2007. Earlier this year Ronnie was named best metal singer by Revolver Magazine. Not only did he possess one of the best metal voices in the business, but he had the heart to match. Motivated by the omission of heavy metal talent from the Live Aid event in 1985 he organised the Hear'N Aid charity recording that same year. It says much for his influence and popularity that he was able to attract to the cause the most prominent rock musicians of the day. To find out more visit: www.orangeamps.com / www.kerrang.com/blog/kerrang_awards/kerrang_awards_2010/news. INTROMENTAL WORLDWIDE SIGNS UK PROGRESSIVE METALLERS LOST IN THOUGHT: Intromental Worldwide is thrilled to be able to announce the signing of Wales, UK band Lost In Thought for worldwide booking and management representation. "We got contacted by Lost In Thought about a year ago, but didn't find them to be quite ready yet," explains Intromental's managing director Claus Jensen. "However, the band listened to our advice and went in and recorded a brand new demo EP with new singer Nate Loosemore stepping in. The result was exactly what we had hoped for. Over the years we've worked with some of the best bands in that very melodic niche-genre of progressive metal such as Redemption, Circus Maximus, Spheric Universe Experience and Seventh Wonder – Lost In Thought fits right in there." The immediate plans are for Lost In Thought to complete the songwriting for their debut full length album, which will be recorded in the fall of 2010. Band and management are aiming at shopping the album towards record labels by early 2011, with a possible release spring 2011. Guitarist David Grey from Lost In Thought says; "We are really excited about coming on board with Intromental. They are a big and well-known name in the progressive world and have worked with and made a success out of some of our favorite bands. We hope and believe that with Intromental backing us we can make big impact on the progressive and metal scene." More information on the band can be found here: www.officiallostinthought.com / www.myspace.com/officiallostinthought. MANTICORA BASSIST GUESTS ON HEXFIRE RELEASE: Danish bassist Kasper Gram (Manticora) has been in the studio to record a superb bass solo for one of the tracks from Hexfire's album. Jacob Liszko says: "As you can see, more and more well-known musicians are agreeing to guest on our debut album! That's incredible. We're really content with that. Kasper Gram is one of my favourites power metal bassist. That's why I thought: "Why don't I ask Kasper to record some bass part for us?". And… As a result, we've got an excellent bass solo from him! That's nice, doesn't it?" For more info visit: www.myspace.com/hexfireofficial. CRYSTALVOX REVEAL ANNIVERSARY RELEASE: Crystavox fans - the Final track listing for the 2 Disc Set 'The 20 Year Mix' is here! CD Track Listing: 1. Cry Out 2. Break Down The Wall 3. Power Games 4. Stick To Your Guns 5. Sacrifice 6. Shame 7. Home Again 8. Paradise 9. It's All Right (To Rock-n-Roll) 10. No Boundaries 11. The Big Picture 12. Snakes In The Grass. DVD Content: 1. The Crystavox Story- 55 Minutes 2. The Early Days 3. Getting Bigger 4. Tough Boys 5. Changes 6. Signed 7. Hit Single 8. Its All Right 9. The Bottom Line 10. Stick To Your Guns 11. Who We Are 12. No Boundaries 13. Paradise 14. Exit Stage Left 15. Thank You. Videos: 16. Break Down The Wall- LIVE 17. Stick To Your Guns- LIVE 18. The Big Picture –LIVE 19. Paradise 20. Snakes In The Grass 21. No Boundaries 22. Tough Boys 23. In Your Arms. These tracks have all been completely restored and remastered directly from the master tapes! But not only that...Many additional pieces and music were re-recorded to bring this collection truly in to the modern day! So if you think you have heard these songs before! Guess again! Adam Lee Kemp lead singer of Crystavox recently stated in an interview with HM Magazine... "When we heard the original material, each of us agreed that there were immaturities and creative gaps in the presentation that were driving us crazy! Consequently, Loren and Fred went to work adding subtle guitar overtones, revised bass compression and new drum samples. These served to bridge those audio gaps in hopes to make the remix a more palatable project..." We had a few minor delays but this Strictly Limited Edition set is scheduled for release on August 17, 2010! If you get your orders in quick you will also get a THIRD Exclusive Bonus disc! Featuring 7 previously unreleased tracks from the bands personal archives! Pre-Sale Exclusive Bonus Disc: 1. Through The Storm-1987 EP (Previously Unreleased) 2. Summit 96- 1996 Promotional Youth Camp Track (Previously Unreleased) 3. The Road Less Traveled- 2002 Studio Scratch Track (Previously Unreleased) 4. Your Mercy- Praise & Worship (Previously Unreleased) 5. No Turning Back- 1987 EP (Previously Unreleased) 6. You Are The One- 1987 EP (Previously Unreleased) 7. Fame- Windows & Mirrors 1987 (Previously Unreleased track from Windows & Mirrors an early incarnation of Crystavox) So get those orders in now! Once the Pre-order is over the bonus discs will be long gone! Visit www.roxxproductions.com for full details. SWITCHBLADE SUICIDE SCORE KISS SUPPORT: Boston-based rock band Switchblade Suicide has been asked by legendary rock band Kiss to be the opening act for their "Hottest Show on Earth" Tour when it comes to Comcast Center in Mansfield, MA on Saturday, August 7 at 6:30p. The hard rocking foursome is ecstatic to receive such an honor. "We are honored and humbled to have been selected to represent the Boston rock music scene & to share the stage with KISS," says drummer Barry Silver. "We could not have done it without our fans. This is truly a rock n roll dream come true", he said. Switchblade Suicide was #1 in the voting out of 150 local bands that entered the KISS/Guitar Center Opening Act Competition (Boston Area) on June 1. After the public voting period ended for the Boston area on June 23, KISS reviewed the submissions of the top 5 bands. In addition to receiving the most votes, Switchblade Suicide was selected based on their excellent musicianship, solid commercial viability & marketability, and a genre of music that KISS embodies. 2010 has been a breakthrough year for Switchblade Suicide. In addition to opening for KISS, they recently opened for Cheap Trick & Squeeze on July 17 at Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion in Gilford, NH. Additionally, Switchblade Suicide has had notable performances in cities such as Pittsburgh, New York City, Hartford, Manchester, and Boston, with airplay on WBCN and an appearance on WAAF. In 2009, Switchblade Suicide opened for Dizzy Reed (Guns ˜N Roses), and members of Quiet Riot, Warrant, and White Lion. Switchblade Suicide's sound is colorfully described as the bastard child of hard rock and heavy metal, devouring the riffs of the 70s (KISS, Aerosmith), the driving dominance of the 80s (AC/DC, Guns N Roses), and the remorseless angst of the ‘90s (Alice in Chains). Blend it all together and "The Blade," as their fans have dubbed them, personifies the next incarnation of raw, ruthless rock n roll, refusing to replicate. Their new EP "Japanese Release" (available on iTunes and CDBaby) features "Stronger," a runaway freight train of powerful rock melodies and harmonizing, edgy vocal sounds, and the power ballad Wasted Time. With a sound and vibe that is uncompromising, unapologetic, and unbridled, Boston-based Switchblade Suicide will infectiously inject you with a lethal dose of original rock n' roll ... just what the doctor ordered for the revival of rock music. Don't miss Switchblade Suicide opening for KISS & their "Hottest Show on Earth" Tour, Live at Comcast Center in Mansfield, MA. For complete ticket information, visit www.LiveNation.com. For information: www.switchbladesuicide.com. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new titles: - Motley Crue - Shout At The Devil Demos - Master Session Tape (12 Tracks) - Magnum - Live Birmingham 12. 04. 1988 (12 Tracks) - Rush - Live Counterparts 1994 (17 Tracks) - Virginia Wolf - Demos (4 Tracks) - Feature Album - Sing Sing & The Crime - Full Time Angel (1990) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, July 29, 2010

ALL'S WELL, BUT NO ENDING FOR STEVE LUKATHER: Guitarist, vocalist, composer, producer and arranger, Steve Lukather is set to release his new solo album All's Well That Ends Well on Monday October 11. The founding member of Toto, Lukather will showcase his innate feel for rock and jazz guitar music, along with his song writing talents. The new album is laden with extraordinary guitar playing performed across some of the best and most emotional songs of Steve's career. Fee Waybill of the Tubes is featured on backing vocals and contributes to some of the co-song writing with CJ Vanston and Lukather. "I'm very excited because I have some great new music," says Lukather. "I am trying for a personal best and working very hard on all aspects of music. It's a journey that's for sure." For over 30 years Lukather has been known as one of the founding members of the multi million selling band Toto. He has played on hundreds of albums with the biggest stars and music legends including Van Halen, Whitney Houston, Alice Cooper, George Benson, Rod Stewart and even played guitar on Michael Jackson's multi-million selling milestone album 'Thriller'. Along with several Grammy Awards over the years, in April 2010 he received the international Eddy Christiani Award for 33 years of guitar mastership. To coincide with the release of the album, Steve will embark on a European tour in November that will take in concerts in Belgium, Holland, Germany, Italy, France, Switzerland and England. The concerts will showcase classics from his all his solo albums, Toto, plus tracks from his new album. Track Listing: Darkness In My World, On My Way Home, Can't Look back, Don't Say It's Over, Flash In The Pan, Watching The World, You'll Remember, Brodie's, Tumescent. 2010 Tour Dates Doors Open At 7pm Agency & CC Bookings Subject To A Fee. Thursday 18th November 2010 O2 Islington Academy, London Tickets: £25 / Box Office: 0844 477 2000 / www.o2academyislington.co.uk N1 Centre, 16 Parkfield Street, London, N1 0PS Friday 19th November 2010 The Robin 2, Bilston Tickets: £23/£25 / Box Office: 01902 401211 / www.therobin.co.uk 20-28 Mount Pleasant, Bilston, Wolverhampton, WV14 7LJ Saturday 20th November 2010 The Brook, Southampton Tickets: £23/£25 / Box Office: 023 80555366 / www.the-brook.com The Brook, 466 Portswood Road, Southampton, SO7 3SD WebLinks: www.stevelukather.net | www.mascot-provogue.com.   xx MISTHERIA PREPARES DRAGON FIRE: Mistheria's new album Dragon Fire has been completed on June 30 and will be released by Lion Music on October 15, featuring: Mistheria, Ivana Greguric, Rob Rock, John West, Mark Boals, Lance King, Titta Tani, Neil Zaza, George Bellas, Roger Straffelbach, Emir Hot, Alberto Rigoni, John Macaluso. Says Mistheria: "I personally edited, mixed and mastered the album. I would like to thank all the people that have been involved: musicians, studios, sound engineers and all professionals that have been contacted for various reasons. Thanks for helping and gave your best! The album process has been fairly long, one year and half (January 2009 – June 2010) but I'm really proud of the result, it matches my wishes and my sound, I hope you'll like it as well. Really thanks to all musicians involved, they gave me full support all the time, doing an amazing songwriting job combined with an outstanding performing! I'm really honored to have worked with such top-excellent musicians: John West, Rob Rock, Mark Boals, Titta Tani, Lance King (vocals), George Bellas, Neil Zaza, Roger Staffelbach, Emir Hot (guitar), Alberto Rigoni (bass), John Macaluso (drums). Thanks to Ivana Greguric to have written a song exclusively for the album. If my album is real, it's thanks to all of you mates! A special thank to Lars Eric Mattsson and Andy at Lion Music [www.lionmusic.com] "Dragon Fire" features 13 tracks, 64 minutes length: Dragon Fire (Music and Lyrics: Mistheria), Lies and Deception (Music: Mistheria – Lyrics: Rob Rock), Killing the Pain (Music: Mistheria – Lyrics: John West), Two of Us (Music: Mistheria – Lyrics: Lance King), Metal Opera - 1: A.D. 1982 (Music: Mistheria), Metal Opera - 2: Eye of the Storm (Music: Mistheria – Lyrics: Mark Boals), Now it's Never (Music: Mistheria – Lyrics: John West), Fire and Flames (Music: Mistheria – Lyrics: Titta Tani), Prelude 18 in Fm (Music: F. Chopin), Chopin Fantasy (Music: F. Chopin - Mistheria), The Power of One (Music: Mistheria – Lyrics: John West), The Beast (Music: Ivana Greguric – Lyrics: John West), A Beautiful Dream (Music: Mistheria – Lyrics: Titta Tani). You can read the full "studio report" on www.mistheria.com where I kept the "work-in-progress" diary. I'll be back to you soon for news, updates and previews. And more from Lion Music - "A massive final update of our virtuoso guitar month features with new interviews with the Shredlord Joe Stump, American shred newcomer Sean Baker, European players player Milan Polak, progressive master Lars Eric Mattsson and the Danish cool of Torben Enevoldsen. Check out the new features at: www.lionmusic.com/virtuosoindex.html and be sure to grab a bargain before the special priced promotion deals end at: www.lionmusic.com/ShopSelect.htm. Remember there are 3 sets of Michael Harris CDs to be won at: www.truthinshredding.com/2010/07/george-bellas-alex-masimichael-harris.html. AT VANCE WRAP UP THE LAST 8 YEARS IN NEW COMPILATION: After 8 successful studio albums it's about time to release a "Best Of" album of At Vance. Titled Decade, it not only includes the highlights from all At Vance records but also rare songs, Japanese bonus tracks, cover versions and the popular adaptations of classical masterpieces (Vivaldi, Beethoven...) "Decade" will be made available as 2-CD set and include the following tracks: CD 1: 01. Only Human 02. Take Me Away 03. Take My Pain 04. Heaven 05. Chained 06. Broken Vow 07. The Evil In You 08. Fallen Angel 09. The Curtain Will Fall 10. Dragonchaser 11. Shiver 12. Cold As Ice 13. Flying High (Remastered) 14. Princess Of The Night 15. Heart Of Steel 16. Ride The Sky. CD 2: 01. Broken Vow (Live) 02. Heroes Of Honour 03. Logical Song (Supertramp Cover) 04. Shout (Tears For Fears Cover) 05. Highway Star (Deep Purple Cover) 06. The Winner Takes It All (Abba Cover) 07. Money Money (Abba Cover) 08. S.O.S. (Abba Cover) 09. Gloomy Monday 10. Wannabe 11. Eye Of The Tiger (Survivor Cover) 12. Desperado (The Eagles Cover) 13. Vivaldi / Spring 14. Vivaldi / Summer 15. Solfiegetto 16. Beethoven 5th Symphony 17. Bumblebee 18. Caprice No.16 19. Bach Invention No.13 20. Cello Prelude G-Major 21. Chopin Etude No.4.   BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION OUTLINES ALBUM PACKAGES: Black Country Communion, the new rock supergroup will release their forthcoming self-titled debut album in the following 3 formats; Limited Edition 2-Disc CD/DVD, CD, and vinyl. The album will be released in the UK on September 20th by Mascot Records. The band features Joe Bonamassa (guitar, vocals), Glenn Hughes (vocals, bass), Jason Bonham (drums) and Derek Sherinian (keyboards). Format #1 ­ Limited Edition 2-Disc CD/DVD Features 12 album tracks on CD, plus a bonus DVD that features interviews with the band, exclusive studio and live images, Kevin Shirley's (Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin) album production notes, "The Great Divide" music video, 'Behind The Scenes' in-studio footage, plus live tracks as performed by BCC at Riverside, California. Format #2 ­ Single Disc CD Single Disc CD edition Format #3 ­ Vinyl Double-sided 12" inch vinyl album The Limited Edition 2-Disc CD/DVD edition is available for pre-order now at Play.com, while all 3 of the above formats are available to pre-order from Amazon.co.uk and HMV.com. Click on the links below to pre-order the album in the format that you desire. Play: tinyurl.com/bccplay, Amazon: tinyurl.com/bccamazonuk, HMV: tinyurl.com/bcchmv. Official UK press release - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/mascot/BlackCountryCommunion.htm. TRIBUTES ABOUND: Versailles Records is excited to announce that Tracii Guns (founding guitarist of Guns N' Roses and L.A. Guns) and Tarsha, lead vocalist of Adler's Appetite, have joined the artist roster for Rock & Roll Train: A Millennium Tribute to AC/DC. While Guns is teaming with Fuel bassist Rev Jones on an acoustic rendition of the Bon Scott-era classic 'Gimmie a Bullet', Tarsha is joining Richard Kendrick on the Brian Johnson-era Back in Black, joining an already star-studded track listing that includes Chris Poland (Megadeth), Keri Kelli (Alice Cooper Band), Chris Slade (AC/DC), Ira Black (Lizzy Borden), Damon Johnson (Brother Cane), Richard Kendrick (Near Life Experience, Straitjacket Smile), Derrick LeFevre (Lillian Axe), Rose Reiter (Skyscreamers), Gregg Analla, Loaded Dice, Bugsy Parker, Robot Lords of Tokyo, and a host of others. Danger Danger frontman Ted Poley has joined the roster of the upcoming tribute album Whole Lotta Love: An All-Star Salute To Fat Chicks. Ted appears alongside his Poley/Rivera collaborator Vic Rivera, who also produced and arranged the music for their track. The duo breathes new life into the song "All Lips N' Hips" by the Electric Boys, who themselves recently reunited after a 15-year hiatus. A surprise MTV hit in 1990, "All Lips N' Hips" paints the sonic picture of an exotic dancer endowed with generous feminine curvature. A sample of the song is now available at the official "Whole Lotta Love" MySpace page: www.myspace.com/WholeLottaLoveTribute. PEARL ADAY SPREADS HAPPINESS IN HARD TIMES: Rock singer Pearl Aday has been around the music business her entire life. The daughter of legendary rocker Meat Loaf, Pearl has seen the ups and downs of the industry herself. She has a decade of touring experience under her belt with Motley Crue and her famous father, as well as recording with Filter and Ace Frehley. Pearl recently released her debut album, Little Immaculate White Fox, and in an interview with Long Live Rock on Blog Talk Radio, she explained why now is the right time for the album despite the slow economy and sluggishness of the music business overall. "This is the first time I'm doing this. Maybe looking at it from a business perspective, it's not the best time to try and put a product out," the singer acknowledged. "It was just ready, and I've been ready to do something like this. I've been wanting to do something like this forever. I don't know if it sounds cheesy, but maybe in a bad economy, people are looking for something to pick up their spirits and just have fun with, and that's just the kind of music that we're making right now." Pearl recently toured the US headlining clubs, and she said the experience was encouraging in a time when many major acts are having to cancel shows and even scrap entire tours. "The response that we got from the crowds coming to the shows was just, 'Thank you so much for coming.' Especially places like Rockford, Illinois and Appleton, Wisconsin . . . places like that, they were just really appreciative, and really had a blast. That's what makes it worth it to me. It's so much fun, and that's the reason I do it; to let it all out, and to have a good time and celebrate rock music. People need it." Pearl will be opening for Meat Loaf starting in August, and Little Immaculate White Fox is available now. Listen to the entire Long Live Rock interview at this link: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/07/26/interview-with-pearl-aday-from-long-live-rock. BANG TANGO VOCALIST TALKS: In the world of rock 'n' roll there are often two sides to every story -- and sometimes even more than that. When Sleaze Roxx talked to one-time Bang Tango guitarist Mark Knight a couple months ago he announced that the original members would be reuniting as Bang Tango Redux for a few select shows -- and, unable to contact vocalist Joe LeSte, they decided to try their luck with a new singer. Now Joe LeSte wants to tell his side of the story, saying that none of the other Bang Tango members tried to contact him about a reunion, that he is still slugging it out on the road, re-recording a brand new CD with the latest addition to the band guitarist Scott LaFlamme and what really happened with rumors of his death circulated around the internet late last year: www.sleazeroxx.com/interviews/joeleste.shtml.

 

 

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

SIRIUS-B LAUNCHES NEW MERCHANDISE WEBSITE: Richard Mace, the designer behind many of the albums featured here on melodicrock.com, has launched a new website specifically catering for musicians and their artwork and merchandise requirements. "The core of my business has always been in album design, however it made sense to also offer promotional items to create revenue for musicians by selling unique merchandise to their fans". Richard handles everything from tour T-Shirts, to websites and advertising and has some very exciting new items available to bands and fans alike. "I've just launched a new website at: www.sirius-skins.co.uk which initially focused on customized graphics for the iPhone, however I will soon be able to offer skins for loads of mobile models, iPods, laptops, MP3 players, games and the new iPad. These vinyl skins can be branded with the band's logo, album cover, or compliment tour publicity etc. They also come with a free matching image for the screen".   If you have a band and would like your own range of customized vinyl skins, just contact Richard at: info@sirius-skins.co.uk and he will be happy to present you with some design ideas and prices for you to sell through your website, or purchase as tour merchandise. Or if you would like stunning artwork for your new album that is individual and stands out in the crowd then contact Richard directly at: richard@sirius-b.co.uk and check out: www.sirius-b.co.uk to see some of the great bands they have worked with. Richard has recently worked on albums for Yoso, Primal Fear, Two Fires, and is currently working on the new artwork for Vega and Melodic Rock's MRCD7 - Forces of Dark & Light.   TO PLAY FREE, FAN APPRECIATION SHOW IN LOS ANGELES ON JULY 29: New York, NY: What better way for a band to show its love for its fans than by playing a free show in their hometown? Ratt, who earned their way into the Sunset Strip's legendary and historical rock pantheon with a parade of hook-filled anthems that went on to define the '80s, will play a free, "Fan Appreciation" show at the Key Club in Los Angeles on Thursday, July 29. That's right. We said "free." No gimmicks. No fine print. No tricks. The show is 100 percent free for fans anxious to Ratt 'n' Roll on a hot July night! This free show is presented as part of the Sunset Strip Summer Concert Series and is being sponsored by BING. The show will be filmed for a forthcoming, feature-length documentary about the famed Sunset Strip, where some of the most culturally relevant bands of the past four decades were spawned. The documentary will also feature X representing the '70s; Jane's Addiction representing the '90s; Pussycat Dolls representing the '00s; and of course, Ratt representing the '80s. Tickets will be available here: www.therattpack.com/contests/lagiveaway, so get them now, because they are guaranteed not to last. Ratt's new album, Infestation, their first studio effort in over a decade, is in stores now. The band is currently touring with The Scorpions and will remain on the road through September. Infestation has been celebrated as one of best albums of Ratt's career. Revolver said the record "plugs directly into the sound and spirit of their glory days" while Guitar Player pointed out that Infestation has "killer tones and great technique." EUROPE TO PUT THEIR BALLS N BANNERS ON THE LINE FOR UK FANS: Following last night's triumphant performance at the iTunes Festival at the London Roundhouse, Swedish rockers EUROPE are pleased to announce a nationwide February 2011 UK tour under the heading of the "Balls 'N' Banners" UK tour. Tickets for all UK dates go on sale at 9am on Friday July 30th, the same day that the band will play the Sonisphere Festival at Knebworth, England. Full dates for Europe's Balls 'N' Banners 2011 UK Tour include Glasgow 02 ABC (Feb 17), Birmingham 02 Academy (Feb 18), London 02 Shepherds Bush Empire (Feb 19), Oxford 02 Academy (Feb 21), Bournemouth 02 Academy (Feb 22), Bristol 02 Academy (Feb 23), Manchester Academy 2 (Feb 25), Leeds 02 Academy (Feb 26) and Newcastle 02 Academy (Feb 27). Tickets, priced at £17.50, with the exception of London (£18), and can be ordered from 0844 477 2000 / www.ticketweb.co.uk. Tickets for the Manchester Academy 2 concert can be ordered by calling the following ticket hotline - 0161 832 1111, www.ticketline.co.uk. Read the online press release and download hi-res images here - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/europe/tour.htm. The tour follows last year's critically acclaimed studio album "Last Look At Eden", which Classic Rock Magazine rated one of the best hard rock albums of 2009. Europe vocalist Joey Tempest believes that it is the strength of the band's last album that is responsible for their current success. "You can't make this stuff up," says Tempest. "Our latest CD 'Last Look At Eden' has really turned things around for us. We're going to bring something very special when we return to the UK in February 2011, we're having the time of our lives right now and the audience will experience a Europe-camp that's ON FIRE!" Visit the official websites ­ www.europetheband.com / europethebandmedia.blogspot.com / www.facebook.com/pages/Europe/7795004209. JANI LANE TALKS FROM THE HEART: This is from last week, but after former Warrant vocalist Jani Lane copped a jail sentence, I figured his latest press release was worth adding to the newsdesk: "I'm not founded on the notion that any press is good press. I'm more than willing to face the consequences for my bad decisions. I'm extremely remorseful about how this has affected my family, friends and fans. I have done a ton of soul searching. This is not a situation I ever dreamed of finding myself in but here I am. I will walk through this and take it as a wake up call. I believe everything happens for a reason. This comes at a time when I am writing some of the best music of my life. I intend to man-up, get through this and release something new in the fall-winter of this year. I will do several shows this holiday season simply because I love to perform and the fans deserve to see me at my best. I want to thank all my friends and fans who have expressed their amazing support and especially my wife and children who continue to surround me with love. This is one of the most trying times and yet enlightening that I've ever faced. I'll be back...and more determined than ever. I love the Warrant songs. I wrote them from the heart but I have a side to my songwriting that a lot of people may be unaware of...I intend to change that! To the guys in Warrant...I wish you the best as well. My true hope is that anyone out there dealing with personal problems...the consequences do not get lighter. I can only say I've never regretted a good decision or action and never been proud of bad ones. People have an astounding ability to forgive...I have to start with forgiving myself. That is something that I find far more difficult than I imagined. I think it starts with gratitude. Today I'm grateful. Thank you for reading...sincerely, Jani Lane.... PS. A personal, from the depths of my soul, thank you to my beautiful wife and children. Without you I would not have the strength or desire to do what I have to do! My love is eternal...I will never let you or myself down again. To the thousands of supportive fans...you amaze me...I will do my very best to return the favor!" BAY AREA MUSICIANS CAMPAIGN TO CLEAN WILDLIFE IMPACTED BY GULF DISASTER: CUPERTINO, Calif. – July 26, 2010 – As the world watches the events unfold of the worst environmental disaster in U.S. history, bay area rock group Luxx has launched a creative campaign to help clean up the gulf. The group has written a song, "Black Water" and made it available on ReverbNation today for download. All 100% of the net proceeds of the single's sales will go toward helping the impacted wildlife in the gulf. Contributions will be divided between two organizations that are actively involved in the effort: the National Wildlife Federation and the Audubon Society. "The size and scale of the gulf disaster are so large, one can feel helpless wondering about how to make a difference," said David Szabados, spokesman and guitarist for Luxx. "But the truth of the matter is that taking action is the key. The National Wildlife Federation and Audubon Society are working tirelessly to help the creatures in need and it's imperative that we do whatever we can to support them." "Black Water" is available today to download at the band's ReverbNation Luxx store at: www.reverbnation.com/store/index/artist_876982. For more information about the band, its music, and additional causes, visit the band's Facebook page at: www.hs.facebook.com/pages/Luxx/141896992493685. Additional product support for the recording of "Black Water" was generously provided by Seagate Technology. BILLY IDOL - LIVE RADIO BROADCAST: On the weekend of July 23rd, the Westwood One Superstar Series will be broadcasting a concert by BILLY IDOL and his 2010 band lineup – Steve Stevens, Billy Morrison, Stephen McGrath, Jeremy Colson and Derek Sherinian – recorded live from Ljbujiana, Slovenia on June 24. Your local station will be offering a free download from the show on their sites after the broadcast airs so check the list for the station in your area and go to their site for the exact time and date. Also visit BillyIdol.net for an additional download after the broadcast. Billy Idol kicks off his North American tour August 5th in Tulalip, WA. BRET MICHAELS, LITA FORD, TED POLEY HEAT THINGS UP AT DAKOTA ROCK FEST: Ted Poley takes it literally, and shares his second degree burns with all the readers. The third annual Dakota Rock Fest took place in Sioux Falls, S.D. July 22-24 at the Sioux Empire Fairgrounds. Like Rocklahoma a couple years back, Dakota Rock Fest 2010 unfortunately had to battle with Mother Nature, and it ended up shortening the Friday night event to just two bands—Lita Ford and Bret Michaels. While the weather didn't turn tornadic, it still put a bit of a damper on the event, considering one of the best new bands on the planet, Mama Kin, traveled from Sweden and didn't get to show the crowd exactly why you need to be their biggest fan ... To read the review, see the 100+ photos and of course, Poley's burned up knees, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/dakota-rockfest-weathers-the-storm-bret-michaels-and-vince-neil-host-three-day-festival/.

 

 

Monday, July 26, 2010

EONIAN RECORDS INTRODUCES SUMMER TITLES: Fresh off of sold out shows in both Los Angeles and Chicago, Eonian Record's Gynger Lynn present their 16 track sophomore release. Gynger Lynn takes the listener through a British pop-influenced, punk-laced, sleaze-metal thrill ride with memorable hooks and giant melodies. Excellent mood and atmosphere throughout as just about every song strikes a chord, whether it be emotional or in a pure rocking sense. All aspects of the band's songwriting also reach their respective peaks on "Baby's Gone Bad," with the lyrical content and wording especially poignant. This release is a must for lover's of L.A. Guns, Faster Pussycat, and Enuff's N' Nuff. Track Listing: 1. Take Me Away 2. Need to Know 3. Baby's All Talk 4. Along the Way 5. Yes It's True 6. Need A Little Love 7. Goin' Home 8. Summertime 9. Lonely, Lonely 10. Never Find a Better Girl 11. Wanna Be Your Lover 12. The Chance 13. Stay with Me 14. Baby's Gone Bad 15. Bad Luck 16. Way of the World.   xx On deck, Eonian Record's most asked about and anticipated releases in Sweet Sybil. Similar to GNR, Van Halen, and L.A. Guns, Sweet Sybil's calling card was raw sexuality and sleaze with a wall of full sounding, in your face street metal. As a favor to a local promoter, the group entered a legendary Chicago battle of the band's contest. The announcer was given a set list and mistakenly announced the band as Sweet Sybil, the first song on the list. The band won and the erroneous name change stuck. Sweet Sybil has opened on a string of tours, opening for such acts as Extreme, Alice in Chains, Enuff Z'Nuff, Dirty Looks, and King's X just to name a handful. Sweet Sybil's Eonian debut features four singles: "Remember When," '#69," "Someone In Your Eyes," and the standout "Alone With You" produced & engineered by Johnny K. (Disturbed, Avenged, and Sevenfold.) Program Director for 'Turn It Up' on WSCA 106.1 FM had the following to say about Sweet Sybil: "I really like this record; it's one of my favorites from the Eonian. It's like the best album L.A. Guns wishes they could have made. It's Bon Jovi with balls! This is a fun record to listen to." Track Listing: 1. Remember When 2. #69 3. Downtown Suicide 4. Walkin' Talkin' 5. Someone in Your Eyes 6. Jump Back 7. Burning House 8. Alone With You 9. You and I. Both Gynger Lynn "Baby's Gone Bad" and Sweet Sybil "Self-Titled" are both available worldwide, as well as directly through Eonian Record's Rockshop at www.EonianRecords.com. xx LINE OF FIRE - EPISODE 5: ALBUM ART + MOMENTUM IN STOCK: In Episode #5 of Line Of Fire's Momentum web series, the band talks about the original concepts and development of the album artwork with artist Chris Harris of Daywalker Creative. We just received our shipment of Momentum from the pressing plant. We will begin shipping pre-orders once we get all the members together (in the same city) and get everything autographed. If you cannot order via the internet Momentum is due in stores 8/10. We want to thank all the amazing fans who have taken advantage of our pre-order special and more importantly have shown their support for Line Of Fire! Order here.   EMPIRES OF EDEN - REBORN IN FIRE FEATURING SEAN PECK (CAGE): The new album from Empires of Eden – "Reborn in Fire" will feature some of the world's most respected heavy metal voices. Sean Peck's song Total Devastation is definitely the heaviest track on the CD and pure, kick in the face screaming heavy metal - www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWsbeGjnjWI. With the already announced Mike Vescera, Zak Stevens, Steve Grimmett and Carlos Zema the album also showcases the incredible talents of Aussie singers Louie Gorgievksi, Chris Ninni and Mike Zoias." With a 30 piece orchestral score – 8 singers – one album – Empires of Eden – Reborn in Fire. For all news and pre release information check www.empiresofeden.com – www.7hart.de. NAUGHTY BOYS PERFORMING AT PIP FESTIVAL: Swedish rockers Naughty Boys gladly announce that they are confirmed to plat at the Swedish festival PIP (Putte i Parken). The festival is one of the bigger festivals in Sweden and this year bands like The Hives, Europe, Takida, The Ark, D.A.D, Danko Jones and The Haunted plays. (just to mention a few) The Boys looking forward to this opportunity and promise a kick as show! Naughty Boys plays on Friday, July 30 at 19.30 – Stage: Kupolen. More info below: www.putteiparken.se / www.putteiparken.se/artist/naughty-boys.

 

 

Friday, July 23, 2010

MORE PEAK INTO ISSA'S SIGN OF ANGELS: Hot on the heels of the buzz caused by the launch of the release of Issa's debut album Sign of Angels, Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the digital only release of the single track I'm Alive on August 20. The song was written especially for Issa by a dream team of Swedish songwriters from Örebro, including Tim Larsson, Johan Fransson, Tobias Lundgren (of Play Production, responsible of penning songs for the likes of Susan Boyle, Martin Stenmarck, Ashley Tisdale, Alcazar, Place Vendome, Saint Deamon, Primal Fear among others), Ronny Milanowicz (the album producer and also drummer of Saint Deamon) and Joacim Cans (of Hammerfall). Issa says "We had the best of times recording this song and it was actually the first track we recorded, the foundation for the rest of the album. It is a special song and to me it represents strength, independence and the courage to stand for yourself. Also I'm Alive makes you get that "I can do anything" feeling, no matter what! It has the all elements of Rock 'n Roll plus catchy melody-lines all wrapped up into one song - one listen and you're hooked". The video clip of "I'm Alive" can be watched on YouTube now. Click on the image and enjoy the clip. Watch out for Issa debut album "Sign of Angels" to be released in Europe on September 24 and USA on October 12 on Frontiers Records.   LION MUSIC - GUITAR VIRTUOSO MONTH UPDATE: Our celebration of the labels guitar talent continues unabated with new interviews with Michael Harris, Joop Wolters and Daniel Palmqvist. 3 superb players with a veritable host of styles in their armoury. Check out the new features at: www.lionmusic.com/virtuosoindex.html. Remember there are 3 sets of Michael Harris CDs to be won at: www.truthinshredding.com/2010/07/george-bellas-alex-masimichael-harris.html. Italian bassist and member of Twinspirits - Alberto Rigoni - has scored a number of new endorsements. Alberto Rigoni thanks: Robert Elrick and his wonderful basses, Fabio Rigamonti & BasSZone (italian distributor for Elrick basses), Ernie Ball Strings & Mogar Music Italy and Stefano Xotta (great guitar playing bro! check him out on Strings24!), Jason Ungleich & HipShot Products ("Can't live without my Bass Extender!!") Alberto will also be able to be heard using his new gear on the upcoming album 'Dragon Fire' from keyboard maestro Mistheria due in October 2010. WebLink: www.albertorigoni.net / www.elrick.com / www.basszone.it / www.ernieball.com. STEVE AUGERI SOLO PERFORMANCE: Steve Augeri is performing a solo show in Kentucky at the Newport Syndicate on Sept. 10th (www.examiner.com/x-24501-Cincinnati-Concerts). Tickets via: www.rwatickets.com.   JOHN WAITE TALKS NEW SOLO ALBUM: A new interview with John Waite has been posted at: johnwaitethegreatest.web-log.nl/johnwaitethegreatest. Featuring John talking about his most recent albums "my last albums are the best'', In Real Time is set for US release via Sony; Alison Krauss is doing a remake on Masterpiece Of Loneliness; Bad English were underreated and news also of John's next solo album - a collaboration with Matchbox 20's Kyle Cook to be released in February 2011. MR-X UPDATE: MR-X update will have to wait until Monday. Again due to problems with my back not allowing me to work any length of time. More updates next week...

 

 

Thursday, July 22, 2010

MELODICROCK UPDATES: Manufacturing of MRR001 - or Jimi Jamison & Jim Peterik - Extra Moments to be precise has been completed (just a few days late!) and is on its way to MR HQ now. Shipment should arrive Monday with all pre-orders to be shipped out by Wednesday next week. Stores carrying the title will receive it in stock during next week - AOR Heaven, NEH Records, Destiny Records, many HMV outlets throughout the UK and other popular specialist outlets. Pre-orders still available (with soundbytes) at: www.melodicrockrecords.com. A final track listing for MRCD7 is just days away. No sneak peaks just yet, but the specially themed 2CD compilation will be released September 4 (pre-orders in August) and will be titled Forces Of Dark And Light. BTW – All T-Shirt orders have finally been processed and shipped and should be with folks any day now. I'll do a re-count of numbers and plug them again shortly. Complete MRF2 coverage by the guys at Rockeyez is now online - day by day pictures and reviews and a summary of the event also. Terrific coverage by these great folks. Check it out at: www.rockeyez.com. Speaking of MelodicRockFest - lots of folks asking about possibilities for MRF3. Right now - not likely. With the MRF2 venue closing and the need to go through the whole process of finding another venue on top of the financial loss from the last show....it just seems a mountain too high to climb without a major sponsor along for the ride. Fact is - I never even secured a sponsor for the first two shows aside from some generous private contributions. Never say never, but not right now.... Sorry, but no reviews up this week as hoped as I still cannot sit for more than 15-20 mins without having to rest my back. It's made for a challenging week! Hoping to get more up to date next week. GLENN HUGHES ANNOUNCES UK TOUR: Iconic vocalist and bass guitarist, GLENN HUGHES, known to millions of hard rock fans as the undisputed "Voice of Rock" will embark on a 15-date UK tour in September. Formerly the lead singer and bassist of Trapeze, Deep Purple and Black Sabbath, and the forthcoming hotly tipped rock supergroup Black Country Communion, Hughes blistering near-on two hour live extravaganza will consist of an unforgettable career retrospective. "I'm proud of my heritage, and the UK fans have always been the most supportive and receptive to me and my music," says Hughes. "I'm thrilled to embark on what's possibly the most extensive UK solo tour of my career. I've just made an album that I am extremely proud of with Black Country Communion, and until that band goes out on the road, I'm channeling all the power and energy from the BCC experience, into these dates. I'm a lean, mean rock machine." Fans can expect a diverse selection of classic songs from Trapeze, Deep Purple, Hughes Thrall and Glenn's solo albums, with an emphasis on performing some new, interesting selections, including some that have rarely/never been played live before. A complete set list has not been determined as yet, but some songs have been decided upon, and they will really set the tongues wagging, feet stomping and bodies groovin'. Hughes is known for his distinctive style that effortlessly blends the finest elements of hard rock, soul and funk. He's worked with everyone from Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi, the KLF, members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and more recently with Jason Bonham and Joe Bonamassa for his new rock supergoup Black Country Communion. He is hailed by millions as one of the last of the truly great British classic rock vocalists of all time. So much so, in fact, that Glenn has been asked to sing with Heaven and Hell at the High Voltage festival in London on Saturday July 24th, in a tribute to their front man, the late, great Ronnie James Dio. Lifelong friends, Ronnie often cited Glenn as his favourite male singer, so it is only fitting that the Voice of Rock will be singing in honour of the Voice of Metal. In keeping with the tradition of the classic British hard rock vibe that he has focused on with Black Country Communion, Glenn's new solo touring band has a harder, more direct rock approach than previous incarnations. The upcoming solo tour promises to be an exciting and powerful showcase for the Voice of Rock. Tour Dates & Band/Ticket Details: www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/glennhughes/tour.htm.   FAITH CIRCUS RETURN: Ladies & Gentlemen…believe it, or not! But a mere 11 months after declaring to the world they would no longer be working together, the boys are back!! Yes! Marc Farrano, Marius Morch, Baard Nordvik, (& introducing new bass player) Christer Ottesen (ex-Popium/Flare), aka. the Faith Circus has returned!! And to prove that this never was, and still ain't no lame, pass time activity, they are bringing a triple threat upon the world of melodic rock! *First out will be the re-mixed & re-packaged brilliant debut album (which saw the guest appearances of Tony Harnell (ex-TNT) and other members of TNT, Stage Dolls, Return & Jorn), pumped up by two bonus tracks! Namely "Heroes" and a remake of the 1981 classic James Bond tune "For your eyes only". This time sung as a duet with the insanely talented and stunningly beautiful Robin Beck!! A version that is guaranteed to leave you both shaken & stirred…in a good way! *Next, as a natural continuation & celebration of their first release is the EP "5 Live", which contains (Yes!...you've guessed it folks!) 5 live tracks, recorded last year in front of 200 + of their closest friends & fans! Both releases can be expected fall 2010. *And finally…pre-productions are well under way for a Brand New Studio Album (TBA) slated for release spring 2011! Rehearsals have also begun in preparation for a series of gig's planned throughout the late summer & fall! Stay on top on all Faith Circus related news via:: www.myspace.com/faithcircus & www.facebook.com/marc.farrano#!/group.php?gid=343593770235&ref=ts. MELODIC BRIEFS: Who says the U.S.A. and American network television doesn't have a sense of humor along with good taste in rock music?! The Strong Man used the song "Real Man" by American rock band Big C**k during his act on NBC's America's Got Talent Tuesday, July 20tin Las Vegas, NV. Watch it here: www.hulu.com/watch/165475/americas-got-talent-week-8---the-strong-man. You can get a taste of Big C**k and hear the whole song at: www.myspace.com/bigcockrocks or watch the band's video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=pD9oykM0e-M. Gibson Online have posted Part 2 of their chat with Rik Emmett. In this interview, Rik talks about how he was asked to be in Boston, Damn Yankees and Asia, but turned them all down: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/rik-emmett-0720/ Bret Michaels talks to CNN: edition.cnn.com/2010/SHOWBIZ/Music/07/20/bret.michaels.new.album/index.html?hpt=Sbin#fbid=JjVOH3zK1TM. BLACK MAJESTY - EUROPEAN TOUR RECAP, JAPANESE RELEASE DATE & AUSTRALIA LAUNCH: After a whirlwind tour of Europe which saw Black Majesty launch their new album In Your Honour in Switzerland, Germany and Czech Republic, Black Majesty will release their latest CD in Japan through Stay Gold/Art Union on the 4th of August 2010 with a bonus track titled 'Hunt For You'. Black Majesty have also announced an album launch in Sydney, Australia for Friday 17th of September 2010 at the Bald Faced Stag in Leichhardt, Sydney, Australia. WebLinks: www.blackmajesty.com / www.myspace.com/blackmajesty / www.limb-music.de / www.justsayrock.com.au.

 

 

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE ANTICIPATED KISKE-SOMERVILLE COLLABORATION: Napoli, July, 2010 ­ Eighteen months in the making, some of the most beautiful voices in the scene, a massive production, one hell of an album, two video clips and one documentary… The Kiske-Somerville collaboration album has all the trademarks of a real event for the Rock fans in 2010, and the release on September 24 in Europe and October 12 in the USA mark some dates that should be noted in every fan agendas. The collaboration between vocalist Michael Kiske (Helloween, Place Vendome) and American singer Amanda Somerville was born as a concept put together thanks to the input of Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino. "I did a duet with a female singer on 'Breathing Water' by Indigo Dying", explains Michael Kiske. "It was so nice that he offered me a chance to make an album of all duet songs with a famous female singer." This exciting album sees Mat Sinner (Primal Fear, Sinner) and Magnus Karlsson (Starbreaker, Primal Fear) handling most of the songwriting (with more contributions from Sander Gommans formerly of After Forever and Amanda Sormeville herself), with Sinner overseeing the production & mix at various recording studios in Europe. Amanda Somerville is the American singer-songwriter and vocal coach who was tapped to replace Epica vocalist Simone Simons on the band's North American tour with Symphony X due to Simons' health issues. Amanda was also featured on Kamelot's latest release, "Ghost Opera", the Rock Opera "Aina" and recently toured with Avantasia. "When Mat Sinner asked me if I wanted to be the "other half" of the face of the album, I was very honored and quite looking forward to working more closely with Michael Kiske" tells Amanda. "We'd both been involved in various projects over the years together, such as Aina and Avantasia, but it was always through third parties and we didn't sing together like we do here. It's not for nothing that Michael's a legend in the scene. He's got a very unique voice, a special delivery of his performance and is a wonderful person on top of it all. This has been a great experience all across the board!". Kiske adds "To sing together with the gifted and beautiful Amanda was another genius idea of Serafino! And it was a most pleasant experience to meet her. Amanda has by far the best female voice I have heard for ages. And the album is a killer." Two video clips were filmed for the songs "Silence" and "If I Had A Wish" in Nurnberg, Germany. Joining Kiske and Somerville for the shoot were bassist and main composer Mat Sinner, guitarist Sander Gommans (After Forever), drummer Rami Ali and keyboardist Jimmy Kresic (Voodoo Circle). The clips were directed by Martin Mueller of RCN TV, who previously helmed the videoclip production for Unheilig, Subway To Sally, Helloween, U.D.O. and Gotthard. The digital only release of the single, "Silence" on August 20, will precede the release of the full-length CD. The Kiske-Somerville album final track listing includes: Nothing Left To Say; Silence; If I Had A Wish; One Night Burning; Arise; End Of The Road; Don't Walk Away; A Thousand Suns; Rain; Devil In Her Heart; Second Chance; Set A Fire (bonus track). The Bonus DVD will include video clips of "Silence" and "If I Had A Wish" plus a "Making of" documentary. The songs "Silence" and "If I Had A Wish" can exclusively be listened to in full by streaming on the Frontiers Web Radio from July 20. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Enjoy the YouTube trailer presentation: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gfmet_9hr74 Musicians: Michael Kiske - Vocals; Amanda Somerville - Vocals; Mat Sinner - Bass & Backing Vocals; Magnus Karlsson - Lead Guitar, Guitar, Keyboards; Sander Gommans - Additional Lead Guitar; Martin Schmidt / Ramy Ali - Drums; Jimmy Kresic - Keyboards. Weblinks: www.michaelkiske.net / www.amandasomerville.com / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx GUNS N ROSES ONLY US SHOW IN 2010 ANNOUNCED: Los Angeles (July 20, 2010) – Making their first U.S. concert appearance in four years – and playing their only U.S. show in 2010 - Guns N' Roses has been officially recruited with Daughtry to join the inaugural Rock 'N Rev Festival and cement its assault on the legendary Sturgis Rally's 70th Anniversary celebration in Sturgis, SD, at the newly constructed Rock N' Rev Amphitheater at Monkey Rock USA. Guns N' Roses will headline the fifth and final night of the festival, as it moves to the Brand New Rock 'N Rev Amphitheater at Monkey Rock USA in Sturgis, adjacent to its original location. L.A.'s notorious rock 'n' roll bad boys - one of Q magazine's "50 Bands to See Before You Die" – have combined forces with HDlogix and DC3 Global for this rare and very special appearance on home soil to bring the "full-out rock 'n' roll spectacle" (Spin) of their 2010 "Chinese Democracy World Tour" to Sturgis and finish off the hijacking of the world's biggest, baddest biker event, Monday, Aug. 9 through Friday, Aug. 13, 2010. Guns N' Roses' final night performance, immediately following previously announced Aug. 13 headliner Alice in Chains, is the ultimate climax to five full nights of undeniable rock 'n' roll bedlam, and now gives the Rock 'N Rev Festival six of the most explosive, multi-platinum AMERICAN Active Rock Bands of 2010. Daughtry, supporting its second consecutive #1 album, will join 3 Doors Down, Hinder and others on Aug. 12, the 4th night of the Rock N' Rev Festival. In order to welcome Guns N' Roses and Daughtry to the Rock 'N Rev Festival, new festival owners HDlogix and its producers, DC3 Global, are starting construction immediately on the Rock N' Rev Amphitheater at Monkey Rock USA, a new custom-built amphitheater on a 25-acre site at Monkey Rock designed to maximize logistical opportunities while enhancing the overall experience for everyone attending – from the bands to the fans. "We are truly blessed to be able to announce the addition of Guns N' Roses at this historic moment in the band's history, along with Daughtry, just as we relocate the Rock 'N Rev Festival to our own Amphitheater at Monkey Rock USA," said DC3's co-founder, Daniel E. Catullo III. "Monkey Rock's vision to create a nationally recognized brand among the world's top motorcycle rallies is a perfect fit for us, and we couldn't be more excited to welcome them as our partners." Raising the insanity level to previously unimaginable heights, Guns N' Roses and Daughtry are just the latest high octane multi-platinum rockers to join the growing list of bands at the Rock 'N Rev Festival. They unite with fellow headliners Stone Temple Pilots, Godsmack, Creed, Alice in Chains and 3 Doors Down to establish the Rock 'N Rev Festival as "The Home of Rock's Hardest New Chart Toppers" – a different one topping each night's lineup. Tickets for the Rock 'N Rev Festival are $45 per day, general admission ($150 for a five-day pass), and On Sale Now through Ticketmaster.com and rocknrevfestival.com and at all Ticketmaster locations, or by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also will be available in person beginning August 5, 2010 on location at the Festival's on-site box office. For more information on exclusive VIP packages ($150 for a single day, $300 for all five days or $1,000 5 day platinum packages), including backstage access to a VIP area to special, air-conditioned tents with private bars, motorcycle parking, luxury bathroom facilities and more, go to rocknrevfestival.com. WebLinks: www.rocknrevfestival.com / www.dc3global.com / www.hdlogix.com / www.monkeyrockusa.com / www.myspace.com/rocknrevsturgis. MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP 30TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR DATES: MSG "Live In Tokyo: 30th Anniversary Japan Tour", to be released on October 19, was recorded in January 2010 during the 30th Anniversary Japan Tour. On this tour, the Michael Schenker Group consisted of Michael Schenker, Gary Barden, Simon Phillips, Wayne Findlay, and Neil Murray. The band, in impeccable form, blasts through a track list highlighting all stages of Schenker's career: from UFO and Scorpions hits, through MSG classic tracks, to his solo compositions. Link to Purchase Item: www.seeofsound.com/search.php?q=schenker&s=t. MSG 30th Anniversary World Tour - North American Dates: JUL 15 2010 - Brixton - Redondo Beach, CA JUL 16 2010 - Galaxy Theatre - Santa Ana, CA JUL 17 2010 - Angel's Roadhouse - Yucaipa, CA JUL 18 2010 - Brick By Brick - San Diego, CA JUL 21 2010 - Back Stage Live SA - San Antonio, TX JUL 22 2010 - 18th Bar & Grill - San Leon, TX JUL 23 2010 - Trees - Dallas, TX JUL 24 2010 - Zoo Amphitheatre (Rock N America Festival) - Oklahoma City, OK JUL 27 2010 - Showcase Live - Foxborough, MA JUL 28 2010 - Altar Bar - Pittsburgh, PA JUL 29 2010 - Starland Ballroom - Sayerville, NJ JUL 30 2010 - Jaxx - Springfield, VA JUL 31 2010 - The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza - New York, NY AUG 01 2010 - The Crazy Donkey - Farmingdale, NY AUG 02 2010 - Eleanor Rigby's (NEW) - Jermyn, PA AUG 03 2010 - The House Of Blues (NEW) - Cleveland, OH AUG 04 2010 - Scatz Nightclub - Middleton, WI AUG 06 2010 - Club Vegas - Salt Lake City, UT AUG 07 2010 - Xclamation Festival - Modesto, CA AUG 08 2010 - Tower Theatre - Fresno, CA AUG 11 2010 - Studio Seven - Seattle, WA AUG 12 2010 - Dante's - Portland, OR AUG 13 2010 - The Last Day Saloon - Santa Rosa, CA AUG 14 2010 - Pepperbelly's - Fairfield, CA AUG 15 2010 - The Avalon - Santa Clara, CA AUG 17 2010 - The Boardwalk (DATE CHANGE) - Orangevale, CA AUG 18 2010 - Coach House - San Juan Capistrano, CA AUG 19 2010 - Key Club West - Hollywood, CA AUG 21 2010 - Rosemont Theatre (NEW) - Rosemont, IL   LORD ON TOUR AND ON NEW EP: Melodic metal favourites Lord have unveiled their latest touring venture, taking them across Australia once again, including trips to the far north, as well as making their way back to Japan for the second year in a row. The band have also announced their latest EP release 'Return of the Tyrant' which will be released in the coming months. Commented Lord main man LT, "We're finally able to announce the tour dates for the rest of the year. This was a logistical nightmare with so many other high-profile acts touring Australia right now, meant that some places we wanted to get to just weren't realistic this time around. This tour will also include our run of shows in Japan with Doro and Jaded Heart, which we're extremely excited about" "The other great news is we have a new Lord release out soon; an EP entitled 'Return of the Tyrant'. Anyone who has followed our history knows about Dungeon, the band that spawned Lord after it dissolved in 2005. Dungeon had a popular song called 'Tarranno Del Mar' - a fun pirate themed song that Lord still enjoys playing to this day. We felt it was time to revisit the story and write the next part in the saga. The song 'Return Of The Tyrant' is full of piratey singalongs and is nearly ten minutes long, so it's quite an epic! Apart from that, we have some cool cover songs and a whole bunch of cool interpretations of Lord and Dungeon songs, so there's quite a lot of material for an EP. We'll be revealing the full track list and cover art really soon." The Tyrants Return 2010 Tour July 30th - Blacktown, The Basement (Lic/AA) August 13th - Newtown, Notes (18+) August 27th - Wollongong, The Ox (18+) August 28th - Canberra, The Maram (18+) September 11th - Darwin, Brown's Mart Theatre (Lic/AA) September 16th - Sydney, The Annandale Hotel (18+) September 17th - Melbourne, East Brunswick Club (18+) October 2nd - Cairns, Kuranda Theatre (Lic/AA) October 8th - Tokyo, Holiday (with Doro and Jaded Heart) October 10th - Nagoya, Holiday (with Doro and Jaded Heart) October 11th - Osaka, Holiday (with Doro and Jaded Heart) October 29th - Sydney, The Gaelic (18+) October 30th - Newcastle, Club Led (18+) November 5th - Broken Hill, Theatre Royal (AA Afternoon show) November 5th - Broken Hill, Theatre Royal (18+) November 6th - Adelaide, Uni Bar (Lic/AA) November 19th - Perth, Rocket Room (18+) November 20th - Perth, The Civic Hotel (18+) November 26th - Brisbane, Rosies (18+) November 27th - Rockhampton, The Anchor Hotel (18+) December 3rd - Merrylands, Hyland Road Youth Centre (AA) Lord was formed from the ashes of Dungeon who disbanded in 2005 after world tours with the likes of Megadeth, Nightwish, Edguy and more, and has since gone on to tour with bands such as Queensryche, Saxon, Gamma Ray, Nevermore and released three well-received albums. The band recently released a tongue-in-cheek cover of Kylie Minogue's "On A Night Like This", which become an instant success, and must see for many. WebLinks: www.lord.net.au / www.myspace.com/lordaus. ERIK NORLANDER SUPPORTS BOB MOOG: El Dorado Hills, CA - Erik Norlander is many things to the world of synth-driven symphonic rock. He is a maestro at the keys, a composer, producer, synth designer and a sterling bandmate and colleague to many in the music industry. For a limited time only, the Bob Moog Foundation will offer his new CD, the very Moog-centric "The Galactic Collective", with a donation of $25.00 to the BMF. Norlander's most recent CD release includes insightful liner notes from Michelle Moog-Koussa where she speaks to Norlander's connection to Bob Moog, the synthesizer pioneer whose namesake inventions revolutionized popular music in the late 1960s and 70s. Here is a sampling from those introductory notes: "It is said that in hands of the highest caliber, the use of technology becomes magic. Not pull-a-rabbit-out-of-a-hat magic, but awe-inspiring transcendental connection. Bob handed off his technological, musical baton and Erik Norlander has cradled it in his hands, skillfully, lovingly exploring the limits of sonic expression and incorporating it into his expressive, epic music. Magic. Each $25 donation supports the Bob Moog Foundation's mission to educate, inspire and innovate through electronic music." To donate $25, please visit this link: https://secure.groundspring.org/dn/index.php?aid=11672. All donations are tax deductible. Erik Norlander reflects on Bob Moog's legacy at this video link: tinyurl.com/2dueouy. INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Gibson recently interviewed Claude Nobs (aka "funky Claude") about the story behind Smoke in the Water, including stories about how the song came to be, especially about Frank Zappa saving some fans from a fire by smashing a window with his guitar: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/claude-nobs-0716/. And Slash talks to Gibson about the search for a new Velvet Revolver singer and about being pushed in Italy: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/slash-0720/. Part 1 and 2 of a new Eric Singer of Kiss interview can be found at: www.RockMusicStar.com/ericsinger. PAUL GILBERT TO RELEASE 3RD GUITAR INSTRUMENTAL CD: Hollywood, CA (July 2, 2010) – Paul Gilbert unleashes his 3rd instrumental masterpiece on Shrapnel Records, August 3rd to the world. "Fuzz Universe is my third guitar instrumental album," explains Gilbert. "Being a fan of pop music and rock bands, I am a reluctant convert into the art of instrumental rock music. But after touring with Joe Satriani's G3, I witnessed firsthand the power of the electric guitar to take center stage and rock the audience. Playing my guitar-driven songs live was a blast! This discovery led to a huge increase in my touring as a solo artist. In the last couple of years, I've played nearly 150 shows all over the world, with my guitar leading the way." Fuzz Universe title is inspired by Gilbert being so immersed in the world of guitar it made him realize that he lives in a Fuzz Universe. "Every generation of guitar players has their own terminology for the rock guitar sound: Distortion, Overdrive, Gain, Crunch, Saturation, Drive etc. For me, the word is Fuzz" Gilbert's extraordinary talent of arranging/composing lends to the new music's fresh melodies for songs that shows his true diversity and only in Gilberts words will you understand: "On Fuzz Universe, I think I've taken a giant step closer to the ultimate rock guitar sound and playing of my dreams. I've used many of my signature techniques from Racer X and MR. BIG, but twisted them into new chords, grooves, and emotions. As always, my influences are diverse and not what you might expect from a "heavy metal" artist. While I was writing the songs for Fuzz Universe, I was immersing myself in Bulgarian Female Choir music, Baroque lute and violin pieces, Johnny Cash songs about trains, cows, mules, and mining coal, the Bee Gees, and Ronnie James Dio. I mix all this into my head, and out came endless new ideas for my guitar to chew on. After several months of being locked in my writing room, I gathered my touring band together and headed to the studio. Jeff Bowders played drums. Craig Martini played bass. Emi Gilbert (my wife) played keyboards. And I bent the guitar strings until I couldn't play anymore. As usual, there are no dramatic stories here. No heroin overdoses, motorcycle accidents, celebrity divorces, or band-member boxing matches. The emotion, drama, and power are all in the music. That is the universe that I want to live in" Paul Gilbert is regarded internationally as one of the greatest players in the industry. Starting his recording career with Shrapnel Records as a teenager in the late 80's, Gilbert remains one of the most active guitarists from the original shred guitar scene. His rise to Platinum success includes a number one song with Mister Big, and cult status as founding member of the legendary and highly successful underground progressive metal band Racer X. For more information click on www.paulgilbert.com. JACKYL PARTNER UP WITH ADULT SWIM FOR ANIMATED TV SERIES SQUIDBILLIES: Who better to pen a song for an animated family of anthropomorphic hillbilly squids living in the Appalachian region of North Georgia's mountains than the Georgia-based, multi-Platinum selling rock act - JACKYL? Adult Swim has certainly hit the nail on the head by assigning Jesse James Dupree, along with fellow Jackyl band members, guitarist Jeff Worley, bassist Roman Glick, and drummer Chris Worley, to write an original song to be used in an upcoming episode of the Squidbillies animated TV series, currently in its fourth season. The exclusive track, Raised By Jackyl, will be featured in the 30-minute all-star musical episode - America: Why I Love Her scheduled to air on July 18th at 12AM ET/PT. In addition to the track, the creators of the show have transformed the members of Jackyl into animated characters who interact in the world of the Squidbillies. The animated members of Jackyl find themselves raising Rusty, the neglected son of Squidbillies patriarch Early Cuyler. They do everything from potty training, teaching him karate, immunizing him, feeding him, and of course, singing him to sleep complete with Dupree's signature chainsaw. As the song progresses, you come to realize that they're training him to be a roadie for the band: teaching him how to run the soundboard, drive the tour bus, and how to court a groupie. Dupree had this to say about the bands involvement, "I feel a sense of pride being able to contribute to young Rusty's growth, and confident we have steered him down the righteous path of the dirty dirty. Puh-Pow! Adult Swim (AdultSwim.com), launched in 2001, is Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.'s network offering original and acquired animated and live-action series for young adults. Airing nightly from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. (ET, PT), Adult Swim shares channel space with Cartoon Network, home to the best in original, acquired and classic entertainment for youth and families, and is seen in 97 million U.S. homes. Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, creates and programs branded news, entertainment, animation and young adult media environments on television and other platforms for consumers around the world. Check out JACKYL's new studio album When Moonshine and Dynamite Collide (Mighty Loud) in stores now. itunes.apple.com/us/album/when-moonshine-dynamite-collide/id369320576. RATT BACK ON THE ROAD: New York, NY: After a very successful Spring tour, iconic '80's hard rockers Ratt are excited to continue their "World Infestation" with Germany's Scorpions. Due to emergency surgery, vocalist Stephen Pearcy was recently forced to cancel a string of European dates; however, the Ratt family is happy to report he has made a full recovery and is eager to get back on the road. "Despite the forced break with my surgery, I'm feeling better and being out here on tour with the Scorpions is rehabilitating, to say the least," Pearcy said. "We're doing different songs from Infestation and they are going over great! We're mixing up our set and kicking some ass. It's a Scorpion sting with some Ratt 'n' Roll!" The upcoming tour supports April's Infestation, which "plugs directly into the sound and spirit of their glory days" (Revolver). The record is an aural assault armed with "killer tones and great technique" (Guitar Player). Infestation debuted at #30 on the US Billboard Top 200 chart and #4 on the Top Hard Music chart. It is being hailed by many as one of the best albums of the band's storied career. Check out the video for the single, "Best of Me," which literally offers a sneak peek into the rock 'n' roll lifestyle. Tour dates are as follows: July 21 – Nokia Live - Grand Prairie, TX (w. Scorpions) July 22 – Warehouse Live – Houston, TX July 23 – AT&T Center - San Antonio, TX (w. Scorpions) July 25 – Zoo Amphitheatre - Oklahoma City, OK (Rock N America Music Fest) July 29 – Key Club – Los Angeles, CA July 31 – 910 Live – Tempe, AZ Aug 1 – Pacific Amphitheatre / FAIR - Costa Mesa, CA (Orange County Fair) Aug 3 – Oakland Metro – Oakland, CA Aug 4 – Raley Field - Sacramento, CA (w. Scorpions) Aug 5 – The Monte Carlo Hotel and Casino – Las Vegas, NV Aug 6 – Warnors Theatre – Fresno, CA Aug 7 – 4th & B – San Diego, CA Aug 13 – Scriba Town Inn Summer Concert - Oswego, NY Aug 14 – Atlantic City Hilton Resort Grand Theatre - Atlantic City, NJ Aug 20 – Northwoods Rock Rally - Glen Fora, WI Sept 4 – Speaking Rock Event Center – El Paso, TX Sept 17 – Shrine Mosque – Springfield, MO (w. Skid Row) Sept 18 – Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre – Maryland Heights, MO More news and updates can be found at www.therattpack.com. For all summer tour dates, Ratt is offering a limited number of exclusive VIP Packages which include a meet and greet with the band at the show of your choosing! For exclusive details and to purchase these special packages, check out Ratt Ticketing: tixx1.artistarena.com/ratt/ LEATHERWOLF ADDED TO RATT/DOKKEN CALI BILL: July 20, 2010 - Orange County metal veterans Leatherwolf have been added to the Ratt/Dokken double bill on August 1 at the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa, CA. The show is part of the annual OC Fair. Leatherwolf are scheduled to take the stage at 6.30pm. Specially priced 10 dollar tickets can be purchased online via Ticketmaster by using a special password; for more info visit the band's MySpace page at: www.myspace.com/leatherwolfmusic. Leatherwolf are currently working on their first ever DVD, 'Live at the Galaxy', which was filmed during the band's 2009 performance at the Galaxy Theatre in Santa Ana, CA. A sneak preview of the song 'Thunder' has been posted on the band's YouTube Channel at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=mg3K_dO-Fdw. It features the band's current line-up, with guitarist Greg Erba and bassist Patrick Guyton joining original members Michael Olivieri (vocals, guitar), Carey Howe (guitars), and Dean Roberts (drums). Leatherwolf online: www.myspace.com/leatherwolfmusic / www.facebook.com/pages/Leatherwolf/139268482759209.   LYNCH MOB EMBARKS ON A SUMMER TOUR: Hollywood, CA (July 19, 2010) – Lynch Mob is getting ready to embark on a summer tour in support of their current release "Smoke and Mirrors" on Frontiers Records. The band line-up for this tour consists of George Lynch (shred master), Oni Logan (vox), Michael Devin (bassologist) and Brian Tichy (time-keeper). After seventeen long years singer Oni Logan and guitar wizard George Lynch found their way back together and again show their amazing abilities in some killer new Hard Rock songs. " I would say this new record "Smoke and Mirrors", is the record we should have put out as a follow up to "Wicked Sensation"...better late than never I guess...", says Lynch presenting the new record. Lynch Mob – Tour Schedule July 20 HOB – GL Clinic Show Houston, TX Clinic July 22 Dos Amigos Odessa, TX July 23 Trees Dallas, TX July 24 Scout Bar San Antonio, TX July 25 Zoo Amphitheater Oklahoma, OK July 28 The Altar Bar Pittsburgh, PA July 29 The Starland Ballroom Sayerville, NJ July 30 Jaxx Springfield, VA July 31 The Filmore New York, NY Aug 01 Crazy Donkey Framingdale, NY Aug 02 Eleanor Rigby's Jermyn, PA Aug 03 House of Blues Cleveland, OH Aug 04 Scatz NightClub Middleton, WI Aug 06 Club Vegas Salt Lake City, UT Aug 07 The New Oasis Sparks, NV Aug 08 Tower Theater Fresno, CA Aug 11 Studio Seven Seattle, WA Aug 12 Dante's Portland, OR Aug 13 Last Day Saloon Santa Rosa, CA Aug 14 Sky City Amphitheater Pueblo of Acoma, NM Get back to real Rock with Lynch Mob's new album "Smoke and Mirrors" - For more information visit www.georgelynch.com or www.myspace.com/lynchmobrocks. INTRODUCING DISTORTED WONDERLAND: Jamsync Music and Swedish rockers Distorted Wonderland have inked a deal for the release of their highly anticipated debut. Distorted Wonderland features vocalist Olof Lindgren and bassist Axel Karlsson from the Swedish glam band Overnight Sensation. Moving in a different direction, Olof and Axel wanted to move on into a different direction. The idea was to combine strong melodies with hard and heavy riffs. When Olof and Axel were recording the backup vocals on Swedish rockers Hardcore Superstar's fourth album, they felt inspired and that the time was right for a new band. As a side project, they spent time writing songs and pre-producing the material until the pieces fell into place. Together with Petter Karlsson on the drums and Fredrik Lundstedt on guitar they started to record their self titled first album. The new video was also shot for the single on 'Raised On Rock n' Roll'. In 2009 Overnight Sensation decided to split. Now Olof and Axel could focus on Distorted Wonderland and the album was finally finished in early 2010. The eleven songs on the album were created through a wide spectra of influences and deliver a musical mass of heavy rock combined with melodic choruses. The thought behind each song was to create a suitable mood and a balance between lyrics and music resulting in this battering ram CD. Distorted Wonderland is set for a fall release. For more information visit www.jamsyncmusic.com.

 

 

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

LION MUSIC JULY 2010 RELEASES OUT NOW: Alex Masi is a guitarist that is constantly pushing the boundaries and challenging himself as a musician. Never content to stay in one musical climate too long, his career is a smorgasbord of musical styles and directions from all out metal, fusion, straight classical to ethnic world influences. Almost 4 years on from his last solo album Alex returns with his most adventurous and personal album to date – "Theory Of Everything", an album which has content and an approach quite different to your typical guitar album. This 10 track instrumental collection of album sees a first for Masi with him handling all aspects of the albums creation himself. This showcases a brand new approach to making music for Masi, something he is keen on exploring and developing a lot more in the future. Full information at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/theoryofeverything.htm.   In the beginning there was nothing... And then there was light! The Dawn Of Time. Fifteen billion years later George Bellas presents to you an epic collection of instrumental songs inspired by the universe, how it was created, and from where and what it came from. 'The Dawn Of Time' is an instrumental album rich in Romanticism and Futurism with over-the-top performances by Marco Minnemann and George Bellas. The album contains a diverse collection of 19 songs that range from simple and delicate, to complex and ferocious. The production is dynamic, clean, and has an open sound to it allowing the music to breath naturally. Full information at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/dawnoftime.htm.   New 'Guitar Virtuoso Month' interviews - Our celebration of the label's hottest virtuoso guitar talent continues with new interviews with Italian hotshot and James LaBrie's solo guitarist Marco Sfogli, as well as British traditional metal blazer Edward Box, the solo artist and one half of the twin guitar attack of Vendetta. To read the new articles visit: www.lionmusic.com/virtuosoindex.html. Remember special deals on instrumental releases are available now in the Lion Music Store with prices starting as low as 6.90 (euros). To enter the store visit - www.lionmusic.com/ShopSelect.htm. Hot on the heels of Dreyelands successful support gig in support of Queensryche we have some live shots of the band in full live flight. Press and fan reaction has been very positive and the band would like to thanks fans new and old for their support at the show and since the release of their debut album 'Rooms Of Revelation' (out now). View the live images here. Progressive metal masters Seventh Wonder are getting nearer to the final stages of recording their fourth album. Fans can get a taster of some of the new material during its working progress at the bands official YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/user/officialSW. NEW JAZZ FROM STEVE SMITH: Drummer Steve Smith is excited to announce that the Raga Bop Trio CD has arrived! It's available on Steve's site for just $9.95 through the months of July and August. Raga Bop Trio is an exciting new project featuring Steve, guitarist Prasanna, and saxophonist George Brooks. The band is grounded in jazz, with its focus on groove, atmosphere, and harmonic adventure. It is also deeply rooted in the rhythmic and melodic traditions of Indian classical music. If you haven't checked out this band - you'll want to visit www.ragaboptrio.com for more information and a video shot and edited by Steve on his Zoom Q3! VICE AND ONLY CHILD RE-ISSUES FOR EUROPE: Label: Yesterrock / Release Date: 23.07.2010 / Vice and Only Child re-issues. Back in 1988 Vice signed their first major deal with BMG-Ariola in Germany. They recorded the first album in Hanover and called it 'Made for Pleasure'. All started up quite good. The promotion and the collaboration with BMG was excellent, they entered the charts and played many shows all over Europe. Among others Vice supported Bonfire on their first European tour. Chris Limburg, the main guy in Vice, produced two albums for the German Southern rockers. 10 years later he signed as a solid member in a band called….. Bonfire. But back to the 90's Vice also played several TV shows, festivals, got a huge presence in magazines and radio, they got bigger and more famous by every week. But then the biggest shock you ever can imagine happened to the band….The singer Jan Ghiantinie died within only two month by a sickness called Rheumatic Child Disease. It was really hard to carry on with Vice. Two years later the band found a new singer, Alan Keen, half American with an amazing rock voice. We began with the song writing for a new album and called it 'Second Excess'. In the middle of the 90's, Vice released a 3rd album under a new name - Vice became Wet Paint and the album was called 'Shhh…'. Chris Limburg today says: 'I am happy and a little proud, that Yesterrock and Sony were interested to re-release the first album of Vice: 'Made For Pleasure' for a new (old) upcoming rock period in 2010. The two unreleased bonus tracks were recorded by Vice in Autumn 1990 when the band was getting a little harder and rougher'. Track list: 1. Feel My Body, 2. Last Day Of War, 3. Red Light Night, 4. Trouble In Paradise, 5. Bad Girl, 6. Made For Pleasure, 7. Running, 8. Rocking All Over The World, 9. Hot Summer Night Party, 10. Boys Got The Fever, 11. Sally, Bonus Tracks: 12. Circle, 13. Angels Crying. The self-titled debut album by Paul Sabu's Only Child originally was released on Capitol Records in 1988. Written in 9 months and recorded in only 3 weeks, 'Only Child' not only has received outstanding press feedback and charts success at the time when it came out but later also was credited by Kerrang! Magazine as one of the top 40 best AOR albums ever. Through the years, 'Only Child' went out of print and became a much sought after release which was extremely hard to find. Munich based label Yesterrock now is re-releasing this gem including the bonus tracks 'Young Guns' and 'Vice Versa'. The album was digitally re-mastered by Robert Papst. 1. Just Ask 2. Always 3. I Wanna Touch 4. I Remember The Night 5. Love To The Limit 6. I Believe In You 7. Save A Place In Your Heart 8. Rebel Eyes 9. Scream Until You Like It 10. Shot Heard Around The World; Bonus Tracks: 11. Young Guns 12. Vice Versa. WebLink: www.yesterrock.com.   xx GLENN HUGHES: THE PRINCE OF ROCK: Great little video interview with Glenn Hughes: "He's played with dozens of bands over the years including "Deep Purple," which was once considered the best rock group in the world. Now he's back with a new "supergroup" called Black Country Communion. Eve Jackson talks to the legendary Glenn Hughes about being the prince of rock, renewing his music and winning the battle against drugs and alcohol." VideoLink: www.france24.com/en/20100716-glenn-hughes-deep-purple-black-country-communion-rock-jackson%20. JOE ELLIOTT TALKS TO BILLBOARD: Full Story here: www.billboard.com/news/joe-elliott-talks-side-project-new-def-leppard-1004104795.story? Even as Joe Elliott releases the first album by his side project, Down 'n' Outz, Def Leppard is hatching plans for some archival projects in 2011. Elliott tells Billboard.com that the group, which is taking 2010 off from touring, is putting together a live album culled from its 2009 tour that may include some new material as well. "We've got tentative plans to do a four- or five-track EP of new songs as part of it," Elliott explains, citing inspiration from previous concert releases such as Kiss' "Alive II," Ian Hunter's "Welcome to the Club" and Genesis' "Three Sides Live," all of which included fresh songs. The set will actually be Def Leppard's first full-scale live album, since the group has only released concert recordings on compilations and recent deluxe editions of "Pyromania," "Hysteria" and "Adrenalize." "There'll be stuff from this century on it -- 'Rock On,' 'Nine Lives,' 'Come On Come On,' " Elliott notes. "Vivian [Campbell] has been in the band 17 years, so I think he deserves a shot at being on a live record. We've got a live video out from the Steve [Clark] era, [1989's] 'In the Round, In Your Face;' I've always said before that if you're desperate to hear us live, put that video on and turn your telly off and just listen to the sound." MELODIC BRIEFS: We are delighted to announce that our album, The Union is available to pre-order exclusively from www.theuniononline.com. It will be available in 5 different formats: Standard Digital Download, Digital Deluxe, CD with Bonus DVD, Deluxe Edition and The Collectors Limited Edition, so hopefully we have something to satisfy all tastes. Click here for all the details of the various editions of the record. All pre-orders will ship on or before the new release date of August 23. House Of Mirrors vocalist PJ Rautiainen has released his debut solo album Secret Isle. You can purchase copies via: musicbuymail.eu/index.php?i=31334 / www.myspace.com/pjrautiainen. A new Mad Max album is almost ready to go. Welcome America is the album and the first single is Pinky Promise. Check the video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7EPEh7104M&feature=player_embedded.

 

 

Monday, July 19, 2010

BANGALORE CHOIR TO RELEASE "CADENCE" ON SEPTEMBER 24: Label: Metal Heaven / Release Date: 24.09.2010 / Los Angeles 1990, David Reece and drummer Rusty Miller were ready to form a heavy but melodic Rock n Roll band named Bangalore Choir A place to look for great guitar players was the GIT in Hollywood so John Kirk and Danny Greenberg were found. Sharing the same musical vision the writing began. First songs were 'All or Nothin' and 'Slippin Away', both on the 'On Target' release. While rehearsing, John mentioned the guitarist Curt Mitchell who had worked with a previous group out of Reno, NV called 'Razormaid' so another great guitarist was found! Rusty Miller and the group parted ways, new drummer Darek Thomas Cava (ex Brunette) replaced him. After a couple shows they had offers from almost every label in town and settled with Giant Records and recorded 'On Target' released 1991/1992. So now to the present, David Reece was asked to sing on Swedish rockers Gypsy Rose new record "Another World" in 2007 and while there they performed at the "Sweden Rock Festival". While speaking to his fans he was asked repeatedly about when there would be a new Bangalore Choir record? With the fantastic support from fans worldwide David reached out to guitarist Curt Mitchell and bassist Danny Greenberg asking if they would like to make a new record, both of them eagerly accepted the challenge. Also on this new record are guitarist Andy Susemihl of U.D.O. fame handling songwriting and guitars as well as doing a masterful job on production and Hans in't Zandt on drums. David Reece comments: "We knew if we were to make a new record that in order for it to be viable we had to keep some of the old formula that worked so well in the past which we have done! The new record by Bangalore Choir is called "Cadence"- continuing with blistering guitars pounding rhythms and big hooky choruses." Soundclips in advance: Martyr / Dig Deep / Living Your Dreams. Bangalore Choir will go on tour in Europe in early October 2010 playing such shows as the H.E.A.T. Festival as well as Firefest in England we also plan to tour the Asian market as well as some U.S. dates. Get ready for Bangalore Choir! New Website at: www.bangalore-choir.com.   xx AOR Heaven continues their Classix series with the re-issue of the much sought after After Hours CD Take Off, which has been digitally remastered by Chris Lyne (Soul Doctor) and contains also unreleased photo material plus liner notes by Dave Reynolds. The release date has been set for August, the 27 and it will be a strictly limited edition of 1000 copies, which will be only available through www.aorheaven.com and connected dealers/shops. The long lost British AOR band After Hours is currently working on their comeback album, which has been scheduled for early 2011 and the band just inked a deal with AOR Heaven. LINE OF FIRE - EPISODE 4: NEW GUY + PRE-ORDERING: In the 5 years since the release of Line Of Fire's self-titled debut, the band has sailed some pretty rough seas (as laid out in Episode #1). During this time the band had to make some tough decisions and, as a result, a change in personnel. In Episode #4 of Line Of Fire's Momentum web series, Shawn Pelata and Nikki Dimage welcome new guitar player Thomas Clark! Momentum, is due in stores August 10th. Obsession - the album's first single can be heard HERE. The physical release contains an exclusive bonus cover of Dokken's Breaking The Chains. (All pre-orders will be autographed by the band). Track List: 1. It Takes Time 2. Obsession 3. Give Me All 4. I'll Be The One Tonight 5. I Belong 6. The Fire Never Dies 7. I'm Crying For You 8. In The Stone 9. Undone 10. Ghost In Your Heart 11. Breaking The Chains (CD Only – Bonus Track). Episode #4: "The New Guy": www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIUWDi1RBso.   MELODIC BRIEFS: The Breakdown Room recently interviewed vocalist Corey Glover from funk-metal icons Living Colour. The singer talked about the concept behind the band's fifth album (The Chair in the Doorway), their future touring and recording plans, and his vocal technique. Read the entire feature article at: www.breakdownroom.net/livingcolour-2010.html. A new interview with Pat Travers can be found at: www.rockmusicstar.com/pattravers. Steevi Jaimz plays The Barfly, Camden, London on Sunday September 12th. This will be his first London show in over five years. The band is: Steevi Jaimz~Vocals, Mick Priestley~Guitar, Shell~Bass and Alex Martin~Drums. Support comes from Generation Graveyard and The Mercy House. www.steevijaimz.com. MELODICROCK RECORDS: Stay tuned….announcements for MRCD7 and the first MelodicRock Records signings are coming right up - including advance sounbytes!

 

 

Friday, July 16, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE TWO FIRES THIRD ALBUM BURNING BRIGHT: Napoli, July 2010 ­ Former The Storm singer Kevin Chalfant returns at the helm of Two Fires with the band's third studio album entitled Burning Bright to be released in Europe and Asia on Frontiers Records on September 24. Two Fires debut album in 2000 was hailed as one of the Melodic Rock highlights of that year, showcasing the return of 2 very well known faces in the Melodic Rock world: singer Kevin Chalfant and guitarist Josh Ramos, both from The Storm, a band which also featured former Journey members Ross Valory, keyboardist Gregg Rolie and drummer Steve Smith. The Storm are considered one of the best expressions of Melodic Rock in the 90's, thanks to 2 outstanding releases, the Self-titled debut album (which sported the US Top 20 hit "I've Got a Lot to Learn About Love") on Interscope and the follow-up "Eye of the Storm" on MFN. The Two Fires concept came about when Frontiers Records President, Serafino Perugino asked Chalfant if he wanted to put up a new band which could fill the hole left in the fans' hearts by Steve Perry's demise from Journey, and he willingly accepted this new challenge in his career. That is why he teamed up with former bandmate in The Storm, Josh Ramos, on guitar and with the cooperation of worldwide known players such as Kenny Aronoff (Jon Bon Jovi, John Cougar) on drums, Willie Weeks on bass, Jim Peterik (Survivor, Pride of Lions) on keyboards created the Two Fires debut album. Produced by Kevin himself together with his old mate George Tutko (XYZ, Alias), "Two Fires" was pure, unadulterated, AOR bliss: a massive masterpiece that re-launched this musical style in the new millennium. Two Fires also appeared on the cover of the Rock It Magazine in Germany and Rock Time in France, plus made two live appearances at The Gods festival in 1999 and 2000, both written in stone as some of the most exciting moments in the history of the festival ever! Two Fires released later another album "Ignition": another great example of pure melodic rock in the vein of Journey, Boston, Foreigner and classic Bryan Adams, before Ramos and Chalfant got busy pursuing other projects. Still thanks to Perugino's request to Kevin Chalfant, Two Fires are now back with a superb new release which is set to bring back the concept to the monster debut, with songs that are set to light the hearts and minds of Melodic Rock fans. "Burning Bright" sees a new set of musicians surrounding Chalfant. "I decided to use my live band as much as possible. But I did have several special guests, one being Rex Carroll of Whitecross a wonderful guitarist, another Denny Rockey, an independent Christian music artist" says the singer. "I wrote more than 20 tracks for this album and I believe the result is a great collection of songs that fit together well" adds Kevin Chalfant. Included on the album is also the superb "Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid", written by the singer together with Neal Schon (Journey) and Gregg Rolie (ex Journey, Santana and of course The Storm). "That's a song I wrote with Neal and Gregg in 1993 after I performed live with Journey" tells Kevin "I believe the original design for this song was to be for Journey. I would have to say it is probably one of the stand outs on this CD. When I lived in Northern California then, it was easy to put writing sessions together at Gregg's cabin. I still have a few more of them up my sleeve. I don't have "favorite" song to speak of. All of the new songs have moments and a special meaning to me. I really love "Answer To My Prayer", "Hold On To Your Dream" and "All For One"... I guess I love the whole album, really." A videoclip for "Is It Any Wonder" is in the works and will be previewed during August. "Burning Bright" final track listing includes: Is It Any Wonder; Lost In The Song; Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid; Epic In The Night; Shattered Without You; Burning Bright; Hold On To Your Dream; Still In Love; Answer To My Prayer; Relentless; All For One. The songs "Is It Any Wonder" and "Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Musicians: Lead vocals: Kevin Chalfant; Lead, rhythm guitars and acoustic guitars: Michael "Ralph" Gardner; Drums & percussions: Timmy Higgins, Jim Widlowski, and Shawn Fichter; Rhythm and acoustic guitars: Alby Odum; Solo on "Is It Any Wonder" Super Rex Carroll; Keyboards: Chuck Giacinto; 5 String Bass: Randy Hatzer; Backing Vocals: Mike Higgins, Michael "Ralph" Gardner, Denny Rockey, Kurt Benckendorf & Kevin Chalfant. Strings on "All For One" Tyrone Lancaster. Weblinks: www.myspace.com/kevinchalfant / www.cliquerecords.com / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx FIRST SIGNAL - VIDEO DEBUT FOR "THIS CITY":   ANOTHER BANG TANGO LINE-UP HITS THE ROAD: Bang Tango lineup of Mark Knight, Kyle Stevens, Kyle Kyle and Tigg Ketler is reuniting with vocalist Michael DeMay. Calling themselves Bang Tango Redux, the band is scheduled to play their first gig together on August 7th at Paladino's in Tarzana, California. More dates will be announced as they are confirmed. Guitarist Mark Knight tells Sleaze Roxx that, "We are starting with a couple of shows in town and then we will see what evolves. If it builds up and starts rolling we will do more dates. Joe LeSte has been doing it for many years with other members and I don't even know his attendance out there -- I've heard some things. But I figure there is going to be a handful of interested fans that will probably be like, 'lets hear this done by the original guys', and it will be interesting to see. I really couldn't call it. It might be just dismal." When asked why vocalist Joe LeSte wasn't involved in the reunion Mark said, "We had tried to contact Joe in 2009 because we wanted to do a 20 year reunion of Psycho Cafe and the release of the band Bang Tango, but no one could really contact him. We tried and tried but there were no returned calls so it never evolved into anything. So we gave up on that. It was something we wanted to do with him but he didn't come around. I don't really know. There is no communication -- it's gone with him, so I don't know where he is at with it." To read Mark Knight's exclusive interview with Sleaze Roxx visit: www.sleazeroxx.com/interviews/markknight.shtml. MELODIC BRIEFS: Starting this Monday July 19th @House Of Blues on Sunset Blvd. - Rock Sugar residency every Monday night - Doors 9pm, Rock Sugar 10:30pm. Get there early this show will sell out! Check out the new interview with Europe's Joey Tempest where he talks about Europe's forthcoming concert appearances at the iTunes Festival in London and Sonisphere at Knebworth: love-it-loud.com/interviews/joey-tempest-europe. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new features: - Don Dokken - Breakin' The Chains (1981 German Solo Release, w/Dokken line-up) - Firehouse - Live Dallas 93 - Zakk Wylde - Unplugged Live - Warrant - Live 4-21-91 - Tokyo - Feature Album: John Verity - Interrupted Journey MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, July 15, 2010

LION MUSIC GUITAR VIRTUOSO MONTH CONTINUES: Lion Music's celebration of our world renowned guitar talent continues with new interviews with Alex Masi whose new album 'Theory Of Everything' is out July 16th and Dutch guitar sensation Marcel Coenen of Sun Caged and solo work fame also checks in. More additions are coming before the end of the week so keep checking the Guitar Virtuoso month homepage at: www.lionmusic.com/virtuosoindex.html. Also be sure to check out the numerous special deals running in the LM store at: www.lionmusic.com/ShopSelect.htm. Competition in association with truth in shredding.com - To further celebrate Guitar Virtuoso month we have teamed with the world's leading guitar instrumental resource 'Truth In Shredding.com' and we are offering 3 sets of Michael Harris CD's, to enter simply visit www.truthinshredding.com, look for the Lion Music logo at the top of the right hand side and enter the competition. New release information coming soon - Hot new releases from Anthriel and Mindsplit coming in September, look out for full album details coming shortly. HAWKWIND TO FLY AROUND UK IN DECEMBER: Legendary space rockers Hawkwind will embark on a major UK tour in December 2010 in support of their new studio album Blood of the Earth. The nationwide tour consists of 13 dates. Tickets are priced at £20, are available from the National Credit Card Hotline 0871 2301101 or can be ordered from www.seetickets.com. The tour kicks off at the Holmfirth Picturedome on Friday December 3rd. Support for all dates comes from UK rockers "The Jokers". For a full list of dates, high-res images, and further info: www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/hawkwind/tour.htm. In addition to the UK tour, Hawkwind will appear at "Hawkfest 2010" next month, which returns to Afton Farm on the Isle Of White. Curated by the members of Hawkwind, Hawkfest takes place between August 27th and 29th. Hawkfest originally came about after the breakdown of the free festival movement in the mid to late 1980's. The band felt that major festivals had lost what made them great. Gone was the intimate, carnival atmosphere and the colourful characters, only to be replaced with huge-scale commercialism. Wanting to get back to the roots of what made festivals so enjoyable, Hawkwind constructed a family friendly event where children could play and explore, whilst parents watched great music, safe in the knowledge that the kids would be safe. Tickets are priced at £70, for further info visit www.hawkfest.com. TARA'S SECRET TALKS TO ROCK PAGES: Check out the interview that the guys from TARA'S SECRET gave to Rockpages.gr for the promotion of their excellent new record "Vertigo". Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: "Vertigo" is your second full length album. It took almost three years to come up with a brand new record after the debut "Tomorrow The World". What has Tara's Secret been doing in the meantime? Craig Chapman: "Tomorrow the World" was our first proper studio album, but there is a much sought after demo album called 'Spectrum Wheel' that we recorded in 2004. After recording 'Tomorrow the World' we lost 2 band members a few months later so Tara's Secret was put on hold until we could find the right people to replace them. With Dave and JT on board we sat down and looked at the direction of both the band and the next album. Johnny Trowbridge: We wrote about 20 tracks for 'Vertigo' during 2008/09 before we went into the studio for pre-production. We co-produced the album with Mark Stuart and Sheena Sear at M2 studios – home of UK classic rockers Magnum. We had also recorded 'Tomorrow the World' there and knew what kind of sound we could get for 'Vertigo'. After looking over various label offers we decided to form our own label, Blackcat Music, since then it's been non-stop... Rockpages.gr: When someone listens to the album, it is instantly evident an influence by all the 80s melodic rock acts. Do you agree and if yes, which ones would you consider to be among the most influential on Tara's Secret sound? Richie Beardsley: We tried to balance the old with the new. Yes our influences do come from a lot of 80s bands but there is also that modern twist in there. We all listen to different things. Craig could bring the classic rock influences of Rainbow and Journey, I could throw in some Dokken and Van Halen and Johnny would add things like Shinedown and Daughtry. So it is not all just 80s rock found in a Tara's Secret song, the songs might have their roots there, but we layer the music so its in your face with a big 2010 production. We wanted a more focused collection of songs that captured the essence of our influences as well as have a modern feel to them, also decided on having a more guitar, driven sound with a unbelievably strong rhythm section behind it. Craig Chapman: We tried to capture some of that 80s good style rocking with an upbeat vibe, but we also wanted something a little darker at times. On songs like 'Rock n Roll Beauty Queen' and 'Vertigo' that have a moodier feel you can't become Journey, you have to think more along the lines of Nickelback. Johnny Trowbridge: Like Richie has said, we are big fans of 80s rock music like Van Halen, Whitesnake, Bon Jovi etc but there is so much great new music out there to get influenced by as well. That's the beauty of music. Read The Full Interview on: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=4311&type=1&lang=EN. SLASH ANNOUNCES GUITAR CENTER COMP WINNERS: Westlake Village, CA, July 14, 2010 -Guitar Center (www.guitarcenter.com), the world's largest musical instrument retailer, along with one of rock's most iconic guitarists, Slash, today announced San Mateo, California's own State Line Empire as the winners of Guitar Center Presents Your Next Record with Slash, a first-of-its-kind unsigned band competition. After sifting more than 12,000 entries, Guitar Center and Slash hand-picked State Line Empire to receive the ultimate career-altering opportunity: record a 3-song EP with legendary producer, Mike Clink (Guns N' Roses, Mötley Crüe, Megadeth) and have Slash write, record and perform on their single. State Line Empire will also receive a prize package that includes: A management development deal with "The Collective" ·Feature of winning artists' single on iTunes ·Worldwide distribution of winning artists' music through TuneCore ·$10,000 Guitar Center Shopping Spree ·New gear and endorsement deals from Ernie Ball Music Man ·An opening slot on Slash's Monster Energy Bash ·An editorial feature on the winning band in Guitar World Magazine "Earlier this year, Guitar Center and I set out to find a great unsigned rock & roll band with a lot of energy and some great songs and take them to the next level," said Slash. "I'm proud to announce that that band is State Line Empire. They're the real deal and we're going to be hearing some fantastic rock & roll from them in the near future. I cannot wait to get in the studio with them." "I can't even put into words how awesome it was to get a call from one the greatest guitarists of all time to tell us we'd won Guitar Center Presents Your Next Record," said David Pearl, bassist for State Line Empire. "A lot of people have told us that they love our music and we appreciate their support so much but to hear Slash say that our band is 'rad' was something that I will never forget. We're incredibly grateful to Guitar Center for giving undiscovered bands like State Line Empire such an amazing opportunity." Hailing from San Mateo, the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles, State Line Empire brings a blistering, road-trip style of rock and roll to the music landscape. The trio formed in 2009 and after a whirlwind first few months of songwriting, Tyson Yen, Dave Pearl and Cat found that an exciting chemistry had emerged and the band was born. Guitar Center Presents Your Next Record with Slash is just one of many Guitar Center initiatives created to foster growth and success within the music community, including its annual Guitar Center Sessions, King of the Blues, On-Stage and Drum-Off competitions, among others. BROKEN SPOKE TO ROCK OUT IN AUGUST: (Sturgis, SD --- July 14, 2010) The Broken Spoke Saloon today announced the 2010 concert line-up for the Broken Spoke Campground, on their four stages. Top national entertainment will feature .38 Special (August 8), Great White and Dokken (August 9), Eddie Money and Black Oak Arkansas (August 10), Warrant, Confederate Railroad and legendary comedian Gallagher (August 11), The Kentucky HeadHunters and Black Stone Cherry (August 12), all on the Outdoor Concert Stage. The Broken Spoke Saloon Stage at the Broken Spoke Campground will feature Blackfoot* (August 7), Houses of the Holy, Dallas Moore, Jasmine Cain and many more. The Pool Stage will feature daily concerts by Laura Lynn and Lucas Hoge. The Broken Spoke Campground is located on Highway 79 North, just past Bear Butte State Park in Sturgis, South Dakota. Cost for all of the entertainment at the Broken Spoke Campground is FREE for campers (tents, RV's, cabins, etc.) and $10.00 admission after 6:00 p.m. for non-campers. The Broken Spoke Campground is wall-to-wall entertainment for the entirety of the 70th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The 2010 festivities include multiple camping options (tents, RV's and cabins), the IMBBA Bike Show and Hall of Fame Awards, Easyriders Rodeo, the Michael Lichter & Sugar Bear Ride, the Cycle Source Ride and Chopper Show, the Vietnam Veterans Wall, the Baker Drivetrain Smoke-Down Showdown, the S&S Smokeout, the World's Biggest Biker Pool with Hot Tubs & Tiki Bar, Legends Art Gallery, Good 'ol Days Raceway, Hill Climb, America's Original Extreme Motorcycle Thrill Shows, the Limpnickie Lot - where attendees can interact with the next generation of bike builders, the Lucky Daredevil Thrillshow, Hot Contests with Cash Prizes, Free Spoke to Spoke Shuttle, Live Music Day and Night, and an on-site General Store including all the items campers need! WebLink: www.brokenspokecampground.com.

 

 

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

PREVIEWING NEW UNRULY CHILD TUNES!: I have had the great pleasure of previewing 4 new Unruly Child songs from their upcoming new studio album, due in October from Frontiers Records. And the sneak peak only makes me more anxious and excited to hear the rest of the material. It is hard to judge the make up of an entire album on only four tracks, but to these ears Unruly Child 2010 presents us with the past and the future. There are elements which are instantly recognizable as the pure Unruly Child sound of their debut album and there are some newer contemporary elements which put the album into the new century. 18 years since the debut album featuring the fabulous Mark Free - now Marcie Free and it seems the band still have that magic chemistry. And I'm extremely excited to pass on the news that Marcie Free is in absolutely fine form and sounds as smooth and melodic as ever. The songs I heard offer a more mature, polished sound and while not as heavy as the debut, the mix of guitars, keys and rhythms is in tact. Show Me The Money - This could only ever be Unruly Child. A new take on their old sound, with a distinct On The Rise/Take Me Down Nasty vibe. The chorus is simple but catchy. When World's Collide - A classic Marcie Free vocal here on mid-tempo melodic track with several layers of instrumentation going on. Talk To Me - An interesting ballad that offers something a little different. It is acoustic driven with a strong classic rock/Led Zep style and a really smooth harmony filled chorus. Very First Time - perhaps the best or most traditionally melodic of the four preview tracks - this is pure classic feel good AOR with an orchestral boost and a catchy as hell hook. I hope to preview more songs as I hear them....hopefully soon!   FRONTIERS RECORDS INTRODUCES NORWAY'S ISSA: Frontiers Records is excited to present the world the talents of Norwegian singer Issa (Isabell Oversveen) with the release of her debut album Sign of Angels on September 14 in Europe and October 10 in the USA. Sometimes real discoveries in music shake up the rock world from out of nowhere. In 2008 a new band from Sweden called Work of Art took the Melodic Rock scene by storm with a stunning debut album. In the end of 2009 W.E.T., another alliance between Swedish musicians with singer Jeff Scott Soto was met with the highest enthusiasm from the Melodic Rock crowd, and just a few months ago, the return of Treat with "Coup De Grace", marked another milestone release in the genre. Now, once again from Scandinavia, Issa, an exceptionally gifted singer from Norway takes her chance with "Sign of Angels", her debut album, an album that many of the ones "in the know" have defined as a "bomb"! Helped by producer Ronny Milianowicz (Saint Deamon) and some killer musicians such as Peter Huss on guitar, Uli Kusch (ex Masterplan, Helloween) on drums, Nobby Noberg on bass and Tim Larsson (Nick Lachey) on keyboards, Issa has managed to create a superb album which offers soaring and instantly likeable hook lines, solid guitar riffs and a crisp sound. Described as Brother Firetribe meets Treat with tons of melodies, class and attitude, "Sign of Angels" features song writing contributions from Joacim Cans (Hammerfall), Thomas Vickstrom (Candlemass), Daniel Flores (TMOMS), Soren Kronkvist (Crash the System) and many more. A video clip for the song I'm Alive ­ a true radio hit ­ was shot by Thomas Tjader (Pretty Maids, In Flames) and will be added to the album. Issa is a 26 years old girl from Oslo. At 17 she started to work her way into the music business as a demo singer for different labels in studios all around Norway. At 19 she won a competition with almost 150.000 votes singing the song "Fade Away" written by Stian Aarstad, who had been a member of Dimmu Borgir. The song was released on a record in co-operation with TV channel Fox Kids. People just love listening to this girl sing and she soon hooked up with Gaute Ormaasen from the Norwegian Idol Show and toured with him. Issa has also performed on many Metal and Rock records including albums by Gaia Epicus and Illusion Suite. Issa has also played over 400 shows with Norwegian artists such as Postgirobygget, Dde, Jahn Teigen etc. "Sign of Angels" final track listing includes: Angels Crying; I'm Alive; Give Me A Sign; River of Love; What Can I Do; Closer; Unbelievable; How Will I Know; As I Live and Breathe; Flying High; It's Not Me; Fallen Angel. I'm Alive (bonus video clip). The songs "I'm Alive" and "Angels Crying" can exclusively be listened to in full by streaming on the Frontiers Web radio from July 13. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Enjoy the YouTube trailer presentation: www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vqC2rqR9Lc. Musicians: Issa: lead vocals, Peter Huss: guitars, Tim Larsson: keyboards, Nobby Noberg: bass, Uli Kusch: drums.   MORE VAN HALEN RUMORS - 2011 TOUR!: Nothing going on in the world of Van Halen? Not on the surface maybe, but this from a brand new interview with Triumph frontman Rik Emmett: "We're scheduled to go for a dinner tonight with a couple of guys from Live Nation that have flown into town and want to take us to dinner. I'm sure there's going to be some sort of a pitch. The rumours that have been sort of blowing in the wind are that Van Halen want to go back out yet again next year, but they're going to need some sort of support to make the packaging a little more interesting. Because Triumph hasn't really ever toured in any kind of a nostalgia way, I think Live Nation kind of goes, "Oh, yeah, you guys would be perfect for that." So, we'll see sort of the size and the shape and the glitter of the golden carrots that they have." Full interview at: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/Rik-Emmett-713. And this comment from a source that contacted me over the weekend who had the chance to hear some new Van Halen material recently: "I heard pieces...one has one of the best guitar riffs I have heard Eddie lay down in a long time, it made the hair on my arms tingle. DLR sounded great as well." THE ROAD HOUSE IN ELGIN IS NO MORE: Really disappointing news in overnight - the venue for MelodicRockFest 2 is closing down effective immediately. The news article is as follows: "The beleaguered bar and grill and fight club that has occupied one of the most prominent - and snake bit - locations in the downtown, closed its doors Monday. The Road House Bar and Main Event Elgin opened in December, filling a void created when Prairie Rock Bar and Grill shut down on Feb. 28, 2009, after 13 years at 127 S. Grove Ave. Business owner Ed Mascari, an employee and landlord Mike Origer loaded up the remaining stock of liquor late Monday morning before the locks were changed. "I'm closed for good," Mascari said in a phone interview. "My end of it is done. The final straw came when the city reneged on the TIF (Tax Increment Financing) money they promised me initially. They led me down the yellow brick road but never came through with anything." Last fall, city council members unanimously granted the Road House a 4 a.m. liquor license, the latest in the city other than the Grand Victoria Casino, and the facility opened in December, hosting rock bands and mixed martial arts events. But over several months, excitement turned to consternation as people in nearby luxury townhouses complained about noise from music emanating from the building, along with patrons leaving at late hours and being disruptive to the neighborhood. "We thought it would be something that would fit in with downtown. Hindsight is 20-20," said Councilman Robert Gilliam, who served on a committee to help rewrite downtown noise guidelines. "It was almost a lose-lose situation when we got into it. Now that it's over, we want to make sure the next time it's not an issue." Mascari said Origer is a 10-percent owner in the business and might try to reopen it eventually. Origer could not immediately be reached for comment. "The venue is very viable. We had a good beginning," said Mascari, who noted summers can be slow because people are outside drinking. "That first year is the hardest." Mascari said that Schock orally promised the Road House $250,000 in funding from a special fund set up to spur downtown redevelopment. Mascari said eventually the number was scaled back to $109,000 and then he was told he had to apply for grants for facade improvements and interest rate reductions. Schock said that promise "never happened." "That conversation never took place. There were never any amounts (promised). It was always tied to eligibility for programs," Schock said, adding, "I was surprised he opened in this economy, to be completely honest. It's tough out there. I'm certainly disappointed he had to close." Mascari estimates he invested $850,000 in the failed venture. "I spent that money in good faith," he said. "There was zero support from the city of Elgin, and that's a shame because we got nothing but accolades and compliments. We ran into nothing but obstacles. It's too bad." The Prairie Rock faired better in terms of financial support from the city. It got a $220,000 incentive to open in 1995 and, when the business was on the rocks in 2001, got a grant of $134,000 from the city to stay open. Councilman David Kaptain, who will square off against Schock for the mayor's seat next spring, said the Road House was the wrong business for that location and residents were extremely tolerant. "We need to re-look at what is our vision for downtown," Kaptain said. "We should have thought about it a little bit more. Next time, I'm definitely going to do that. I learned my lesson." ArticleLinks: www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=393570 / www.suburbanchicagonews.com/couriernews/news/2492014,3_1_EL13_05CLOSING_S1-100713.article. LOUD 1 MAIL ORDER CLOSES ITS DOORS: More bad news, this time a little closer to home: "It is with a great deal of sadness that we have had to call it a day. After 16 years Loud 1 has run its course and as of midnight the 30th of June Loud 1 is no more. Sue & Gez would like to say a huge thank you to all of you who have supported us with your custom, friendship and loyalty over the years we will miss you. We wish you well and urge you to continue to support the music you love by buying your music. Keep The Flame Alive..." GUITARIST/COMPOSER STEVE MORSE TEAMS UP WITH SINGER/SONGWRITER SARAH SPENCER: 7/14/2010 - Ocala, Florida—Acclaimed guitarist/composer Steve Morse has teamed up with breakout singer/songwriter Sarah Spencer to release Angelfire, an album of haunting, harmony-laden acoustic songs. Steve Morse is often described as a "musician's musician," acclaimed amongst artists but eschewing the public limelight. The six-time Grammy nominee is renowned as much for his writing as his guitar playing, garnering such accolades from peers as being voted "est Overall Guitarist" for five consecutive years (Guitar Player magazine). Morse adeptly fuses a wide range of musical styles, including jazz fusion, bluegrass, southern rock, baroque classical and metal. Whether playing with the Dixie Dregs, the Steve Morse Band, previously with Kansas or currently (going on 15 years) with Deep Purple, Steve continues to leave his mark as a distinctive songwriter and guitarist. Sarah Spencer, 22, grew up in a musical family. She began piano lessons at age six, and was recording original material at ten. At 14, she was cast in a VH1 reality show (ultimately cancelled) that followed the lives of teenage prodigies. She wrote in the operatic pop genre, inspired by orchestral movie soundtracks. Spencer began working with established producers during her teens, recording live-orchestral songs with producers Paul Weston and Al Steele. Sarah met Steve when she was 16, and they began collaborating on what was to become Angelfire. "When I first heard Sarah sing, I was amazed…I'd never heard a voice so pure," says Morse. "My first thought was to write an album with her so I could hear and share it with other people." Sarah responds, "Steve has been so generous throughout our collaboration. Everyone knows about his incredible talent, but only a lucky few know about his big heart. I feel so blessed to be able to work with this renaissance man!" Their collaboration represents several firsts for them both. Even after 44 albums, Steve has never written a vocal album. Sarah is stepping out front as a performer and songwriter. And despite their cumulative experience spanning multiple genres of music, neither has written anything that sounds like Angelfire. At first imagining Sarah McLachlan meets John McLaughlin, or the collaborative approach of Robert Plant and Allison Krauss, Angelfire soars beyond compare into the hearts of audiences eager for fresh, unique new music. Steve Morse: Acoustic and electric guitars, keyboards; Sarah Spencer: Lead and background vocals; Bass guitar: Dave LaRue; Drums: Van Romaine. Track Listing: 1. Far Gone Now (3:50) 2. Everything to Live For (4:30) 3. Feelings Are Overrated (3:39) 4. What Made You Think? (2:57) 5. Here Today (3:55) 6. Get Away (4:25) 7. Pleasant Surprise (3:48) 8. Terrible Thing to Lose (4:18) 9. Omnis Morse Aequat (3:36) 10. Take It or Leave It (3:57) 11. Urban Decay (4:18). WebLinks: angelfiremusic.com / stevemorse.com / sarahspencer.com / radiantrecords.com.   LION'S SHARE PAYING TRIBUTE TO RJD: Fan-filmed video footage of Swedish melodic metallers Lion's Share performing cover versions of Black Sabbath's "Heaven And Hell" and Dio's "We Rock" as a tribute to Ronnie James Dio during their appearances at the Gatufesten in Sundsvall, Sweden on July 8, 2010 and Rockweekend festival in Söderhamn, Sweden on July 9, 2010 — can be viewed below. "We Rock" (live July 9th 2010) www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrarH_VcAF4 "Heaven & Hell" (live July 8th 2010) www.youtube.com/watch?v=eV47eAOP6Ds "The Bottomless Pit" (live July 9th 2010) www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDPEd12LHYs Some of Swedens finest heavy metal musicians will gather to pay tribute to Ronnie James Dio during this fall's edition of the Sweden Rock Cruise, set to sail on October 7, 2010 from Stockholm, Sweden for Åbo, Finland and return the following day. There will be a long tribute concert with a number of guest musicians performing classic songs from Dio's career with a main band consisting of members of Lion's Share. So far the following artists have been confirmed to perform with Lion's Share at the event: * Björn Gelotte And Peter Iwers (In Flames) * Joacim Cans (Hammerfall) * Ian Haugland (Europe) * Mikael Åkerfeldt (Opeth) * Jens Johansson (Stratovarius, Ex-Dio) * Messiah Marcolin (Ex-Candlemass) * Johan Edlund (Tiamat) * Joakim Berg And Magnus "Adde" Andreasson (Hardcore Superstar) * Johan Hegg (Amon Amarth) * Mike Wead (Bibleblack, King Diamond, Mercyful Fate). FATAL SMILE SPANISH TOUR IN OCT 2010: Fatal Smile will be doing a Spanish Tour in October with the following dates: 21 Oct - Ritmo y Compás, Madrid - Spain 22 Oct - Apollo 2, Barcelona - Spain 23 Oct - TBA, Valencia - Spain 24 Oct - Japan Rock Club, Vilareal (Castellón) - Spain 27 Oct - Sala Coyote Rock Bar, Cartagena (Murcia) - Spain 26 Oct - Marea Rock Bar In Torrevieja (Alicante) - Spain 28 Oct - Sala Arco, Alcázar de San Juan (Ciudad Real) -Spain 29 Oct - Sala Tartufo, Bergara - Spain For more info: www.fatalsmile.com. FRANKIE BANALI TO KICKSTART QUIET RIOT DOCO: Frankie say let's make a Rockumentary! Frankie Banali of Quiet Riot opens his personal home video vaults and his life, for a rockin' documentary. Frankie Banali is a world renown drummer you probably remember from the 80's band Quiet Riot. He was in the band for 27 years and the last 13 he was also the band's manager. His career took a major sideswipe when his singer Kevin Dubrow died three years ago. As a single soccer dad in the suburbs, his long hair and tattoos frighten the neighbors, but to other drummers he's a hero. At a cross roads in his life he must forge ahead and make a new life for himself and his daughter. Lots of never before seen home movies from Quiet Riot's heyday, interviews with dozens of rock stars, deeply personal footage and a few surprise twists. The most real, raw rock and roll documentary of it's time. This film takes a real journey back through time to the decade of debauchery and decadence. Real home videos shot backstage, on the tour bus, in the recording studio, and in hotel rooms with one of the 80's top platinum selling bands and most notorious bad boys. Never before seen footage from the milestones in Frankie's long career in music and his personal life now. Funny, and deeply personal and poignant exploration of Frankie's long time friendship with his bandmate Kevin Dubrow. The loss of his close friend and his career as he knew it, and his life after Kevin. Follow his journey at his current moment of truth... WebLink: www.kickstarter.com/projects/795871699/frankie-banali-quiet-riot-documentary-0. MARC COHN LAUNCHES LISTENING BOOTH: 1970: Grammy winner Marc Cohn releases his newest album, Listening Booth: 1970, on July 20 amidst a series of performances on television and national radio shows with additional support from Starbucks, which is stocking the CD in its stores across the country. Starting with an appearance on Good Morning America on July 22, Marc will perform on syndicated radio shows Mountain Stage and Acoustic Café, as well as the nationally syndicated television shows Daytime, Better TV and the WGN MidDay News through August. Marc will also be profiled during Nightline's Playlist segment next month. In addition to Starbucks, Listening Booth: 1970 will be available at all major retail outlets, iTunes and Amazon.com via Saguaro Road Records. "I couldn't imagine how Marc and John Leventhal were going to tie the songs together given the wide variety of artists", commented Mike Jason, Saguaro Road Senior Vice President, Retail. "Thankfully they did­warm, intimate, and drenched in laid back soul." Listening Booth: 1970 was recorded in the spirit of Bonnie Raitt's Nick of Time and Alison Krauss/Robert Plant's Raising Sand, where brilliant songwriters took on songs created by others and meticulously deconstructed them until they re-emerged as if they always belonged to them. The result is warmly familiar yet entirely fresh, with Marc's vocals strikingly bare and placed thoughtfully into austere arrangements. "I'm singing in a different place in my voice on this record" explains Cohn. "It was ultimately extremely liberating to just be the singer, not the songwriter, and to try to find the most interesting, unforced way to approach what we already knew were such beautifully written songs." Marc collaborated with producer John Leventhal (Roseanne Cash, Shawn Colvin) throughout the recording process and invited in India.Irie, Aimee Mann, Jim Lauderdale and Kristina Train for additional vocals. Listening Booth: 1970 also stands as a remarkable testament to the groundbreaking songwriting and vastly different musical styles that emerged that year. From Smokey Robinson's "Tears of a Clown" to Simon and Garfunkel's "Only Living Boy in New York," "The Letter" (made popular by Joe Cocker), Bread's "Make It With You," John Lennon's "Look At Me," Paul McCartney's "Maybe I'm Amazed" and Cat Stevens' "Wild World," 1970 remains one of the most influential in music even 40 years later, a rare moment in time when a single was as powerful as an LP. "Looking back, it was a pivotal year in music," says Cohn. "It was not only the golden age of the single, but it was a window into the beginning of the golden age of the album, especially when it came to singer-songwriters. Even while all these deeply personal and poetic records were being released, there was this eclectic mix of pop music on the radio; it was great to be able to explore that range on this record." For further information via EPK, please click through to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=3u87rKGQZY8. BANG TANGO ANNOUNCES TEMPORARY REPLACEMENT GUITARIST FOR SUMMER TOUR 2010: Bang Tango guitarist Alex Grossi (Quiet Riot, Adler's Appetite, Beautiful Creatures) will be taking a temporary leave of absence from Bang Tango for a summer tour with Adler's Appetite. His replacement is guitarist Scott LaFalmme. Scott LaFlamme was born and raised in Springfield, Massachusetts. Scott's love of music surfaced during early childhood, beginning at 5 years of age and has transcended through years of devotion as both a performer and teacher. He is a talented individual whose playing ability is comprised of intricate musical theory and skill. A gifted individual with a natural born talent for his craft. Alex Grossi will return to the Bang Tango camp in the Fall/Winter of 2010. The rest of Bang Tango's current lineup is Joe Leste (lead vocals) / Lance Eric (Bass) / Trent Anderson (Drums) Read more: www.myspace.com/bangtango#ixzz0tWyAWOvd. THUNDER MEN ROCK THE 80s: Featuring Thunder's very own Harry and Chris, 'The 80s Rocked' plays the very best rock anthems of the 1980s, with classics from Aerosmith, Guns 'N' Roses, Bon Jovi, AC/DC, Whitesnake, Queen and more. They've asked me to let you know that they will be headlining The Cambridge Rock Festival on Thursday 5th August. Here are a few examples of what you can expect: Sweet Child 'O' Mine * Livin' On A Prayer * Jump * Here I Go Again * The Final Countdown * The Eye Of The Tiger * Love In An Elevator * Back In Black * God Gave Rock'n'Roll To You. The list goes on.. 'The 80s Rocked' All Star Band features: Danny Vaughn – Vocals, Carl Sentance – Vocals, Harry James - Drums, Chris Childs – Bass/Vocals, Dave Bishop –Guitar, Matt Prior – Guitar/Vocals, John Pease – Keyboards/Vocals. For more info and other live dates visit: www.the80srocked.co.uk / www.facebook.com/pages/The-80s-Rocked/111613745531439. KINASIS EP OUT NOW: Kinasis unleash their new EP featuring a fresh new metal sound. Recorded at their own studio in Somerset, the new EP features three epic tracks. The sprawling, gritty In Vivo, the hypnotic swirl of Human Condition and concluding with the angular, technical work-out that is Aftermath. Play the new EP here: www.reverbnation.com/tunepak/2720238. KINASIS is inspired by a wide range of music. The band grew up listening to such bands as Rush, Yes and King Crimson as well as Pantera and Slayer and the likes of Captain Beefheart, Gong and Black Flag. CC BANANA STRIKES AGAIN: Rock & roll comic C.C. Banana, known for his outrageous interviews with rockers and other celebrities, becomes the latest addition to the upcoming tribute album "Whole Lotta Love: An All-Star Salute To Fat Chicks." C.C. performs a faithful rendition of the underground Kiss track "Spit," a song from their 1992 album "Revenge." Originally sung by Gene Simmons (with an assist from Paul Stanley), "Spit" is an unapologetic rock & roll rant about the pleasures of pleasuring a large-sized lady. It is also the second Kiss song covered by C.C. Banana in his brief music career, the first being a parody of "Unholy," rewritten as a roast of Danger Danger frontman Ted Poley and appearing on the 2008 album "KISS MY ANKH: A Tribute To Vinnie Vincent." C.C. has amended the title of the track from "Spit" to "Split," in deference to his unique banana pedigree. A sample of the song is now available at the official "Whole Lotta Love" MySpace page: www.myspace.com/WholeLottaLoveTribute. As C.C. Banana explains, "For the follow-up to my contribution to the Vinnie Vincent tribute, for which I recorded a Kiss song from the 'Revenge' album sung by Gene Simmons, I decided to record a Kiss song from the 'Revenge' album sung by Gene Simmons (albeit with a slight change of title, to better reflect my yellow magnificence). What can I say? Split happens!" Providing music for the track are members of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra's west and east coast touring companies (respectively), Angus Clark and David Z. Clark has been a continuing member of TSO since 2001 and Z toured with them from 2000 through 2006. David is also a member of rising rock act ZO2, who toured with Kiss on their Rock The Nation Tour with Poison and can currently be seen in the weekly television series "Z Rock" on the Independent Film Channel. "Kiss is my favorite band so I was more than pleased to cover one of their songs," says David Z. "When ZO2 was on tour with them a few years ago, we would ask them to play the most obscure Kiss tunes during soundcheck. 'Spit' was always one of the songs we'd request. Naturally, it was a real thrill getting to work with the one and only C.C. Banana! I had a complete blast working on this track." "Any time C.C. Banana calls, you answer!" insists Angus Clark. "Heck, I actually practiced my part! Bruce Kulick used some sort of flange effect on the original to give it that Hendrix vibe, so I dialed up something similar and had at it." In addition to his tenure with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Clark has also toured with famed New Age artist Kitaro and is currently hard at work on his newest musical venture, DareDevil Squadron. Joining David Z on bass and Angus Clark on lead guitar are Charlie Zeleny (Jordan Rudess, Blotted Science, Behold... The Arctopus) on drums and Kelli McCloud (Days Before Tomorrow, dedLilith) on co-lead vocals, singing the Paul Stanley parts from a female point of view. The track was arranged and produced by Paul LaPlaca (Chris Caffrey, The Great Kat, Zandelle), who also contributes rhythm guitar. Concluding with a comment on the theme of the album, C.C. Banana confirms, "For the record, I am a lifelong admirer of the overripe female figure. Like a luscious fruit, a bigger woman is all the juicier. Especially if she's pear-shaped or has ample melons! Without a doubt, these girls put the HEAVY in METAL" As previously reported, "Whole Lotta Love: An All-Star Salute To Fat Chicks" is a musical homage to the big, beautiful women who make the rockin' world go 'round. The tribute will feature all-new recordings of popular songs praising the fuller female figure, originally made famous by some of the biggest names in rock and pop music. These anthems to abundance will be performed by renowned rock & rollers from yesterday and today, along with a select few rising stars. In direct opposition to the "no fat chicks" mantra espoused by some, "Whole Lotta Love" will be a star-studded celebration of large and lovely ladies. Songs confirmed so far include Queen's arena rock classic "Fat Bottomed Girls" by L.A. Guns singer Phil Lewis, with guitarist Paul LaPlaca and drummer John Macaluso. Also on tap is a high-octane version of the AC/DC concert staple "Whole Lotta Rosie" by Rufus Fontain, featuring Cinderella guitarist Jeff LaBar and original Jackyl vocalist Ronnie Honeycutt. The Poison chart-topper "Unskinny Bop" is ably recreated by party rock outfit Evick, featuring members of the Bret Michaels Band. And the bass-heavy Spinal Tap dirge "Big Bottom" is given a 6-string revamp by Twisted Sister guitarist Eddie Ojeda and his Band of Steel. Plus-sized songstress Celisa Stratton brings all-new meaning to the title track "Whole Lotta Love" by Led Zeppelin, in conjunction with veteran Quiet Riot drummer Frankie Banali and guitarist Alex Grossi. The album boasts an inspired cover by pop artist Les Toil, known for his bold and beautiful "big girl" pin-up art. Additional artists and track listings will be announced as they are confirmed. Samples of all tracks are available at the official "Whole Lotta Love" MySpace page. "Whole Lotta Love: An All-Star Salute To Fat Chicks" is scheduled for an August 31, 2010 release and is now available for pre-order directly from SplitScreen Entertainment. The first 500 pre-orders will receive a free instant digital download of "Fat Bottomed Girls," as well as a bonus mini-print of the cover art upon delivery of the album. Further details can be found at the SplitScreen Entertainment website: www.SplitScreenEntertainment.com.   GUITAR INSTRUCTIONAL DVD AVAILABLE: Neo-classical guitar master John Jaunese has released an instructional DVD titled Secret To Speed. This dvd package is jam packed with 24 exercises on DVD, and a forty page book with standard notation as well as easy to read tab. This lesson series is for Advanced Levels, however there are many Medium level players who are curious, and wish to experiment with it as well. John is also working on his compilation series cd Northwest Shredfest and will be appearing on Shredguy Records...Shredding Across The World...Volume Four. For more info check out: www.myspace.com/johnjaunese.

 

 

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

STRANGEWAYS: WHAT DO YOU WANT?: Press release / "With Firefest fast approaching, Strangeways are currently assessing what to include in the set list for thier live performance. The band will obviously be including some tracks from their forthcoming album to be released around October, so we don't expect you to know them, but what we do want from you is a list of the TEN other songs from past Strangeways output that YOU feel should be in the set list for the Firefest performance. Please submit your list of songs on e mail to: firefest@hotmail.com with the heading Strangeways Set List before Saturady July 24th, and if you pick the ten songs that make the final cut, we will pick a winner or three from all correct entires for a private meet and greet with the boys at Firefest. Ian and Terry have promised to throw in a few goodies such as T shirts, cd's and another few bits and pieces of Strangeways swag for the lucky winners. Please be sure to include your name and e mail address. Winners will be notified before Firefest.For everyone who has waited 20 years for this to happen here is a great chance to actually tell the guys what you would like to hear on the night....so get those lists together and into us as soon as possible." ALL THINGS STRYPER: Welcome back Stryper fans! We are on our July episode and have some very special things in store for you this time around! We lined up an exclusive interview with Christian Liljegren form Audiovison / Narnia. Join us as we discuss the new Audiovision CD, touring with Stryper and all about what's going on with Christian today! We have a lot in store for you this episode with news on the new Stryper CD, including a brand new clip of the new track 'God'! As well as all the usual segments you have you grown accustomed to, including a brand new cover tune from Audiovision! So tune in beginning Saturday July 10th and hear all the latest Stryper happenings, plenty of music and more! Visit www.strictlystryper.com for all of our affiliates and airdates and times! And on the subject of Stryper - check out soundbytes to their covers album, online now: www.stryper.com/thecovering777. MELODIC BRIEFS: German classic rockers Kickhunter strike with their clip Revolution. The track is taken from Kickhunter´s new studio album "All In" which will be released on July 23: www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxIWGM4F8sA. Producer Kevin Shirley talks to Love It Loud about the making of the hot new album from Black Country Communion: love-it-loud.com/interviews/kevin-shirley. ALL PENS BLAZING – A ROCK & HEAVY METAL WRITER'S HANDBOOK – VOLUME II BY NEIL DANIELS: This is the second volume in the acclaimed All Pens Blazing series. Both volumes now feature a staggering 134 interviews with rock and metal scribes from around the globe. Ever wondered what it takes to be a rock journalist? In this extensive collection, Neil Daniels has interviewed a staggering 69 of the world's most successful rock and metal scribes. With a foreword by the legendary rock writer Mick Wall, All Pens Blazing is a worthy historical document for the serious enthusiast and can be used as a handy reference tome for the aspiring rock and metal writer. Volume I – which collected 65 interviews – was published in 2009; also by AuthorsOnline. Both collections make essential reading for the rock and heavy metal fan. You can buy the book at this link: www.authorsonline.co.uk/book/934/All_Pens_Blazing%3A_A_Rock_%26_Heavy_Metal_Writer%27s_Handbook_-_Volume_II/purchase/ And obviously from Amazon... Volume II (foreword by Mick Wall) is 350 pages and features 69 interviews: Phil Alexander/Ken Anthony/Phil Ashcroft/Scott Alisoglu/Steve Beebee/Keith Bergman/Nathan T. Birk/Shari Black Velvet/Chad Bowar/Jake Brown/Alan Burridge/Dave Cockett/Jeff Collins/Jon Collins/Mark Day/Rich Deakin/Bernard Doe/Harry Doherty/Robyn Doreian/Arnaud Durieux/Mark Eglinton/ Rob Evans/Hugh Gilmour/Rob Godwin/Steve Hammonds/Kelv Hellrazer/Nickie Hobbs/Jon Hotten/Martin Hudson/Chris Ingham/Billy James/Stephen "Krusher" Joule/Alison Joy/David Konow/Mitch Lafon/Chris Lambert/Pippa Lang/William Luff/Malc Macmillan/Brian Manly/Gerri Miller/Michael Moynihan/Dean Pedley/David Perri/Neil Perry/Paul Rees/Bryan Reesman/Jason Ritchie/Chris Rogers/Scott Rowley/Darren Sadler/Amy Sciarretto/Dave Shack/Harry Shapiro/Dale Sherman/Aaron Small/Sid Smith/Ryan Sparks/Janne Stark/Kevin Stewart-Panko/Phil Sutcliffe/Dave Thompson/Paul Travers/Jaan Uhelszki/Ray Van Horn, JR./Doug Van Pelt/Mick Wall/Ian Winwood/Joshua Wood. Volume I (foreword by Martin Popoff) is 350 pages and features 65 interviews: Jeff Apter/Gavin Baddeley/Bailey Brothers/Geoff Barton/Carl Begai/Mark Blake/Jerry Bloom/Dante Bonutto/Paul Brannigan/Louise Brown/Garry Bushell/Brett Callwood/Steffan Chirazi/Ian Christe/Carol Clerk/Dave Dickson/Malcolm Dome/John Doran/Paul Elliott/Jerry Ewing/Mike Exley/Dave Ferris/Lonn Friend/Joe Geesin/Ian Gittins/Ian Glasper/Tim Henderson/Mark Hoaksey/Seb Hunter/Neil Jeffries/Howard Johnson/Tim Jones/Dom Lawson/Dave Lewis/Dave Ling/Peter Makowski/Matthias Madder/Joe Matera/Joel McIver/Bruce Mee/Mick Mercer/Alexander Milas/Ben Myers/Derek Oliver/Daniela Pilic/Martin Popoff/Greg Prato/Dave Reynolds/Steven Rosen/Xavier Russell/Jonathan Selzer/Joe Shooman/Brian Slagel/Joseph Stannard/Paul Suter/Adem Tepedelen/Everett True/John Tucker/Tommy Udo/Henry Yates/Clinton Walker/Chris Welch/Stirling Whitaker/Rich Wilson/Jeb Wright.

 

 

Monday, July 12, 2010

HAREM SCAREM FOR US RELEASE: US re-issue label Wounded Bird Records, in conjunction with their partnership with Warner Bros Records, will release much of Harem Scarem's back catalogue in the USA for the first time, including a number of previously Japanese only live albums and compilations. On schedule for release September 7 at the retail price of $11 are the following Scarem classics: Harem Scarem, Voice of Reason, Big Bang Theory & Believe. Compilations: Live at the Siren, Last Live, Ballads, Rocks, B-Side Collection, Live Ones. Mood Swings is not part of the campaign as it is still in print in Canada. VOICES OF EXTREME RETURN: Checkout the new release from Voices Of Extreme. Their album Break the Silence will be released in the US/Canada on August 2. Prepare yourself for a fantastic new release "Break the Silence" from New York and Massachusetts based Voices of Extreme. "Break the Silence" has infectious sounds that grabs the listener from the beginning and never let's go. It's no surprise V.O.X. deliver an excellent new release that features first class musicians previously involved with artists like Doro, TNT, Ark, and Yngwie Malmsteen. For many, "Break the Silence" is the first introduction to V.O.X., however the ten tracks will inspire you to be part of a new allegiance of excellent musicianship. Founding V.O.X. members began their friendship as children. Don Chaffin and Bob Brennan maintained contact and would get together to share each other's musical ideas and projects. While Bob Brennan was in Florida, he started working with Nick Gertsson on guitar while Don Chaffin began to work with John Macaluso (Yngwie Malmsteen) on various projects back in New York. These four members would soon become the initial lineup of the band Voices of Extreme. Upon many endeavors, Bob Brennan had made a connection with Nicko McBrain (Iron Maiden). They became good friends and it wasn't long before Nicko agreed to help Bob Brennan with his new band V.O.X. (Voices of Extreme). After a short hiatus, the band's guitarist Nick Gertsson moved to Hawaii and Bob Brennan returned to Florida. Once more, the band's desire to create their music yearned and Bob Brennan would soon return to New York in late 2009 to collaborate with Don Chaffin, John Macaluso, and new guitarist Rob Katrikh. In it's desire to expand their musical horizons, V.O.X., asked Mike Khalilov to join them on keys and rhythm guitar. Voices of Extreme debut album " Hypocrite" was produced by Danny Spitz (Anthrax) in 2005. Once the debut album was complete, it wasn't long before the V.O.X. hit the stage opening for Disturbed , Alice in Chains, and Godsmack. Summer 2010 proves to follow with full scale promotion for "Break the Silence" to Press, Radio, and plans for sharing the stage with many well known Artists. LINE-UP: · Don Chaffin - Lead Vocals · Rob Katrikh - Guitar · Bob Brennan - Bass Guitar · Mike Khalilov - Keys · John Macaluso - Drums. Tracklist: 1. Damned 2. Tell Me What It Takes 3. Apocalypse 4. Break the Silence 5. Numb 6. Did It Again 7. Hollow 8. Made of Stone 9. Blown Away 10. Sorry. WebLinks: www.voicesofextreme.com / www.myspace.com/VoicesofExtreme. THE VOICES OF RAINBOW LIVE IN JAPAN 2010: The Voices Of Rainbow Live In Japan 2010 - Performers: *Joe Lynn Turner with Akira Kajiyama - Members: Toshio Egawa, Atsushi Hasegawa, Kenichi Fujimoto / *Graham Bonnet: Alcatrazz - Members: Howie Simon, Tim Luce, Jeff Bowders *Doogie White: Guest Vocal. Concert Dates: Sep 27 Osaka : Big Cat Open 6:00PM / START 7:00PM Sep 29 Nagoya : Bottom Line Open 6:00PM / START 7:00PM Sep 30 Tokyo : Shibuya C.C.Lemon Hall Open 6:00PM / START 6:30PM Ticket Price is YEN8,000 All (Osaka and Nagoya need YEN500 for Drink Charge) All of concert tickets onsale August 7 Present By ZAK Corporation The Voices Of Rainbow page; www.zak.co.jp/artest/2010/rainbow/rainbow.html. LINE OF FIRE EPISODE 3: In Episode #3 of Line Of Fire's Momentum series, the band talks about the production and sound of the album; where they drew their influence, what type of audio goals they had and how it compares to the self-titled debut. Find out what classic bands and albums inspire the members of Line Of Fire to do what they do. Line Of Fire's sophomore album, Momentum, will be released August 10th on Tribunal Records.   BON JOVI PULLS HIS MUSCLE: An official spokesman for Bon Jovi issued the following statement regarding the band's Friday night concert at New Meadowlands Stadium: "Near the end of Bon Jovi's two-and-a-half hour show at New Meadowlands Stadium on Friday night, Jon Bon Jovi sustained a torn calf muscle. Jon made light of the injury and went on to close the show with their anthemic hit, 'Living On a Prayer.' The band ended the night together, thanking the capacity home-town crowd, and assisting Jon off the stage. The injury will not prevent Bon Jovi from playing any of their upcoming stadium dates this summer." This was the band's fourth concert at New Meadowlands Stadium. The series started in May, with the first concert ever at the new East Rutherford stadium.

 

 

Friday, July 09, 2010

MAGNUM SET FOR VISITATION IN JANUARY 2011: Magnum are busy at Mad Hat's Studio working on their new album The Visitation. The new album will have a Worldwide release through Steamhammer / SPV and is due for release in January 2011, titles so far are: Freedom Day, Like Midnight Kings, The Visitation, Mother Natures Final Dance, Eyes Like Fire, Fatal Embrace, The Doors To Nowhere, The Last Frontier. JIMMY BARNES READIES RAGE AND RUIN: Jimmy Barnes is a master of many talents but none better than singing great rock songs! And that is exactly what the Australian rock icon is doing on his 16th solo album, Rage & Ruin. Coming off the #1 platinum-selling album from 2009, 'The Rhythm and The Blues', Jimmy Barnes has once again ripped off the suit to deliver his most powerful rock single in years, Before The Devil Knows You're Dead. Recorded earlier this year with a stellar line-up of L.A. session musicians, and produced by Don Gehman (REM, John Mellencamp) the album is scheduled for release on August 27. Sample the song now via: jimmy.liberation.com.au/multimedia.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Strikeforce is now confirmed as opening act with Styx at the Duquoin Fair on Thursday Sept 2 in Duquoin, Illinois at the Arena Grandstands - 8,000 seat facility! This is Strikeforce's reborn tour show. Strikeforce has played the Grandstands arena before - opening for Richard Marx 10 years ago. Thanks to Ron and Sweetsounds and Island Records - our worldwide distributor for putting Strikeforce where we belong -- in arenas! 1927 - Aussie melodic rock stars from the 80s are back together with the original line up, currently touring and reportedly also working on a new studio album. Mitch Lafon's new Rob Halford interview is now up at bravewords.com: www.bravewords.com/news/142362. The Hooters have released a 5 track EP in Europe - featuring the band singing in German: www.amazon.de/5x5/dp/B003SXLGE0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1278440912&sr=8-1. Marco Mendoza (ex-Whitesnake, Ted Nugent, Thin Lizzy) was recently in Greece. Rockpages Web Magazine talked exclusively with him about a variety of subjects including the reformation of Thin Lizzy. In related news, Rockpages TV is launched with this interview and stay tuned for more exclusive features: www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zIPHCcYBvY. TUFF/SHAMELESS ARE READY TO EMBARK ON 3 WEEK EUROPEAN TOUR: Attention European rock fans. Tuff/Shameless are ready to embark on 3 week tour in August-September 2010. The group will be fronted by legendary Sunset Strip veteran - Tuff vocalist Stevie Rachelle. The Shameless bookends on bass & guitar will be Alexx Michael and his partner in crime BC. Also on board will be Tuff member Jimi "Gunz" Lord who played drums for the band during the "Religious Fix" years. The set will be filled with fan favorites from the Tuff Glam Rock classic debut "What Comes Around…Goes Around". Tracks included will be "The All New Generation", "I Hate Kissing You Goodbye" and "So Many Seasons". Along with the new millenniums global mega smash "American Hair Band". The Shameless tunes to be featured are "Non Stop City", "Steal The Girlz" & the Munich based bands most downloaded track, "Queen For A Day". The groups past tours have featured Bruce Kulick of KISS (2000), Steve Summers of Pretty Boy Floyd (2007) and Davy Vain (Vain) showed up and jammed with the group in Germany (2009). This year will be no different, as the tour welcomes special guest guitarist Germany's very own Andy Brings (The Traceelords/Sodom/Powergod). This tour is not the first for Tuff/Shameless in Europe, but it will be the first ever Scandinavian appearance for the guys when the tour wraps up at Sweden's "Stockholm Rockout Festival" on Saturday September 11th. "There is a reason for us doing these European tours" says the TUFF singer. "The fans love it. They came to see us in the past, and they will be back again this year. The fans ultimately get two bands in one and really appreciate the vast amount of great pop glam rock songs." Tuff and Shameless combined have released over a dozen discs of music, and have a catalog of over 20 releases (including DVDs) in the last 20 years. "We are beyond excited to play for our European fans, but Sweden & Belgium will be new stops and we cannot wait." adds Alexx Michael "We have friends and fans on every continent and we vow that South America and Japan are next!" The tour currently has shows slated for Germany, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland & Belgium. Stay tuned for exact dates, venues and developments in the near future! Note: Tuff will play the following US warm up gigs in July! July 15th "The Brixton" Redondo Beach, CA w/ MSG & Pretty Boy Floyd July 17th "Key Club" Hollywood, CA w/ Lynch Mob & Dizzy Reed (Gn'R) July 31st "910 Live" Tempe, AZ w/ Ratt For more information please visit the bands official sites: www.myspace.com/StevieRachelle / www.myspace.com/shamelessonline. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new Live Shows: - Bon Jovi - 1993-07-31 - Buffalo, NY - MSG - 1983-12-01 - Nuremberg, Germany - REO Speedwagon - 1979-12-28 - Chicago, IL MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, July 08, 2010

BCC REVEAL DEBUT ALBUM ARTWORK: Black Country Communion, the new rock supergroup featuring former Deep Purple/Black Sabbath's Glenn Hughes (vocals, bass), Led Zeppelin's Jason Bonham (drums), guitar player Joe Bonamassa (guitar, vocals), and Dream Theater's Derek Sherinian (keyboards), have today revealed the artwork for the debut album for the first time. Released by Mascot Records in the UK and Europe on Monday September 20th, followed by a North American release via J&R Adventures on September 21st, the hotly tipped debut album is produced and mixed by Kevin Shirley (Black Crowes, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin). "The album's jam-packed with quality rock songs that collectively showcase each musician," says Dave Lewis, editor of the Led Zeppelin magazine Tight But Loose. "BCC is no exercise in mere retro rock," continues Lewis. "The album has a definite contemporary edge. Yes, there's a real groove to it but, as Glenn says, with a Bonham involved, that's to be expected. Jason puts in a performance that emphasizes why he was such an integral part of the success of the Led Zeppelin O2 reunion show." "This is the real thing and it's the right thing to do at the right time," adds Glenn Hughes. "It's current, not old, or heritage, it's designed to be a classic modern rock album and I get a chance to sing ­ really sing rock again, without holding back."   NICKELBACK EXTEND TOUR: Nickelback, who was named Billboard's 'Group of Decade' and kicked off 2010 by performing at the Closing Ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympics, is showing absolutely no signs of slowing down, as they have extended their Dark Horse World Tour. The next leg of the tour, produced by Live Nation, will begin on September 14 in Nashville and will run through October 30 in Las Vegas. Three Days Grace and Buckcherry will join Nickelback on these dates. Tickets go on sale to the general public on July 17 here: www.livenation.com/Nickelback-tickets/artist/710632. "Dark Horse World Tour" has been a smashing success, as all previous legs have been completely sold out. Since 2009, Nickelback have sold more than 1.6 million tickets and have played more than 120 global shows. "Our fans have been amazing all over the world from Japan to New Zealand, Australia, Dubai, the UK and North America," said Nickelback's Chad Kroeger. "Our fans keep us going and we are excited to play 25 more dates in the US with Three Days Grace and Buckcherry." The dates for the September-October leg of "The Dark Horse World Tour" are as follows: Sept 14 - Bridgestone Arena - Nashville, TN Sept 15 - Allen County War Memorial Coliseum - Ft. Wayne, IN Sept 17 - Consol Energy Center - Pittsburgh, PA Sept 18 - Joe Louis Arena - Detroit, MI Sept 21 - HSBC Arena - Buffalo, NY Sept 22 - Times Union Center - Albany, NY Sept 24 - Comcast Center for the Performing Arts - Mansfield, MA Sept 25 - Hersheypark Stadium - Hershey, PA Sept 28 - Mohegan Sun Arena - Uncasville, CT Sept 29 – Prudential Center – Newark, NJ Oct 01 - Nationwide Arena - Columbus, OH Oct 02 - Quicken Loans Arena - Cleveland, OH Oct 08 - Rupp Arena - Lexington, KY Oct 10 - Verizon Arena - Little Rock, AR Oct 12 - New Orleans Arena - New Orleans, LA Oct 15 - Cynthia W. Mitchell Pavilion - Spring, TX Oct 16 - Ford Center - Oklahoma City, OK Oct 18 - Pepsi Center - Denver, CO Oct 20 - Energy Solution Arena - Salt Lake City, UT Oct 22 - Honda Center - Anaheim, CA Oct 23 - Arco Arena - Sacramento, CA Oct 26 - Sleep Train Pavilion - Concord, CA Oct 27 - Save Mart Center - Fresno, CA Oct 29 - Cricket Wireless Pavilion - Phoenix, AZ Oct 30 - MGM Grand Garden Arena - Las Vegas, NV In other Nickelback news, the band has just released select songs which will now be available as downloadable content for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Wii platforms in the Rock Band Music Store. The "Nickelback Pack 01" will include a bevy of the band's most recognizable hits. Additionally, the popular "Tap Tap Revenge" rhythm game franchise expands with "Nickelback Revenge," currently the #1 music game at iTunes. The new game features eleven of Nickelback's most popular songs of all time, including "How You Remind Me," "Rockstar," "This Afternoon," and "If Today Was Your Last Day." TESTAMENT TO AUSTRALIA: Thrash legends Testament have reigned as one of the world's finest metal acts for 25 years; and their newest release "The Formation Of Damnation" has re-confirmed their status as heavy music royalty. This album is their sharpest, leanest and heaviest set of songs for two decades, providing the audio equivalent of a crushingly heavy hammer-wielding maniac intent on bashing your brains to a pulp! The response to Testament's new release has been phenomenal, with the band in high demand at festivals throughout Europe and the Philippines and tours across Canada and the US, playing a set containing just the combination of new, old, and crowd favourite material to drive their fans wild. With all this success, Testament are eager to bring their crushing brutality back to Australian shores and connect with their fans down under. Bass player Greg Christian says of the upcoming Aussie tour: "I feel honored to be able to go there and perform. We've made a lot of friends there and I'm looking forward to seeing them again and making a few more." August 2010 will be Australia's turn to witness the blistering live spectacle of 'The Damnation Tour' featuring Testament with special guests Dreadnaught; so prepare to have your eardrums shattered! Don't miss your chance to be decimated by thrash metal monsters, Testament! Tour Dates: Melbourne August 6 Billboard, tickets through Moshtix and Billboard Box Office Sydney August 7 Manning Bar, tickets through Moshtix, Oztix and Manning Bar Box Office Brisbane August 8 The HiFi, tickets through HiFi Box Office Only WebLinks: www.testamentlegions.com. STEEVI JAIMZ LIVE: Steevi Jaimz plays a one-off show, as part of the well established Saturday rock night/ 30 years of Rock City celebrations on Saturday September 4th at The Rig - Rock City - Nottingham UK. After the critically acclaimed release of My Private Hell last year, it'll be his first UK date in over 3 years. The band is... Steevi Jaimz~Vocals, Mick Priestley~Guitar, Shell~Bass and Alex Martin~Drums. My Private Hell gets it's official US release on jamsyncmusic this August. WebLink: www.steevijaimz.com / www.myspace.com/steevijaimz.

 

 

Wednesday, July 07, 2010

VAN HALEN BREAK SILENCE TO UPDATE FANS - "THERE IS NO UPDATE!": Looks like I made the news again. This from Rolling Stone Online overnight: www.rollingstone.com/music/news/17386/152865 "The web was abuzz with rumors that Van Halen had completed a new album — the first with David Lee Roth back as lead singer — over July Fourth weekend, with a "source" even telling MelodicRock.com that a first single is due at the end of the year. The report also claimed that the new album, the classic Van Halen lineup's first since 1984, was nearly halfway complete and that it would be released in the first half of 2011. However, Eddie Van Halen's wife and spokesperson Janie Van Halen has denied the report to Rolling Stone. "What is going around is exactly that, rumors. I don't have any updates at this time," Janie Van Halen said." Just a couple of points. I'll stand by that info given to me…something is underway. It's not as if I expected the notoriously secretive organization to actually confirm something! I'm actually a little intrigued as to why there has been an official response to this report, given the numerous other comments coming out of LA in recent months about "album work" underway at Van Halen's 5150 Studios that have been left unanswered. Guitarists John 5 and Dweezil Zappa have gone on record and another source claims to have spoken directly to Steve Stevens who had similar comments. Regardless of what is happening right now, the band are again off the road this year (rumors of a tour for 2011 continue), fans could be well frustrated with the continued lack of communication from 5150 Studios, or the place fans have dubbed (kinda) affectionately dubbed "Howdie Doodie Mountain". Stay tuned as always! BENEDICTUM SIGN TO FRONTIERS RECORDS: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the signing of US Classic Heavy Metal band Benedictum for the release of a brand new studio album in early 2011. Since 2005 Benedictum has been heralded as one of metal's most exciting bands. Fronted by the awesome talent of Veronica Freeman, her raw and powerful vocals have been the driving force behind this international metal sensation. This year proves to be a very intense and exhilarating time, as Benedictum are set to deliver their 3rd album of jaw dropping, head banging, female-fronted fury. After releasing two critically acclaimed albums (Seasons of Tragedy & Uncreation), produced by internationally renowned producer and bassist Jeff Pilson (Dokken, Dio & Foreigner), Benedictum is back to unleash their career defining release! Benedictum is ready for the next step: with a new label behind them, they are currently working hard on the recording with Grammy Award winning producer Ryan Greene (Megadeth, F5, MXPX, NOFX). Benedictum is firing on all cylinders! Veronica is joined once again by lead guitarist extraordinaire, Pete Wells, bassist Chris Shrum, Tony Diaz on keyboards and drummer Mikey Pannone. Benedictum's success and legacy have been well documented and the band have already earned their place at the head of the power metal genre. "There is really a feeling of excitement in the air for us, the new material will be another level in our evolution as a band and we have a lot of confidence in our new label Frontiers Records and their willingness to stand with us on our journey!" states Veronica.   LA GUNS VERSION 2 HIT OZ: L.A Guns are coming to Australian shores in September 2010 with Tracii Guns, founding member of both L.A Guns and Guns 'N' Roses. Performing in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne over three back to back nights, Australian fans across the East Coast will be able to experience what many consider to be the last true Rock and Roll band. Dates, venue and ticketing information for the September tour include: 2 September 2010 – Step Inn, Brisbane www.oztix.com.au / rocking horse / moshpit / butter beats / www.bigtix.com.au 3 September 2010 – The Forum, Sydney moshtix / 1300 GETTIX (438849) / www.bigtix.com.au 4 September 2010 – The Hifi, Melbourne www.thehifi.com.au / 1300THEHIFI (843443) / Polyester Records / www.bigtix.com.au Started in 1982 by Tracii Guns during his last year of high school, it wasn't until after joining with "Hollywood Rose" frontman Axl Rose to form Guns 'N' Roses before going their separate ways, that Tracii reformed L.A Guns and guided them to their first platinum album award with their first album "L.A. Guns". A compilation of the videos made for this first album also earned the band a gold video award. L.A. Guns features Tracii Guns (guitar), Danny Nordahl (bass), Chad Stewart (drums and percussion) and Jizzy Pearl (vocals) with whom Tracii recorded the album Shrinking Violet back in 1999. Original material and Tracii Guns' experience working with many renowned and accomplished musicians throughout the years, including Nicki Sixx (Motley Crue) in Brides of Destruction, has led to L.A. Guns' continued global success – with no signs of slowing down. East Coast Australia should strap themselves in and get ready for a highly anticipated lesson in Authentic Rock and Roll. Deluxe Reissue of Shrinking Violet out through Riot Entertainment.

 

 

Tuesday, July 06, 2010

NEW TEN ALBUM ON THE WAY: Gary Hughes and the other Ten guys are working hard in the studio to lay down the tracks of the forthcoming album to be entitled "Stormwarning". According to Gary: "The album is coming on nicely. The songs are incredibly strong this time out, the strongest I feel since the first two albums. This album has very commercial overtones as did the first two but when it kicks it does exactly that, with some songs being more in the Spellbound era style too". Some of the song titles include, apart from the title track: "Centre of My Universe", "Kingdom Come", "Endless Symphony", "Love Song" and "The Wave". Mark Zonder (Fates Warning) was chosen to lay down the drum tracks, while the mix will be handled by Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69, Sunstorm, Place Vendome). The cover art will be again designed (like it was for "Spellbound" and "Babylon") by the spanish artist Luis Royo. Frontiers hopes to release the album in early 2011. No mention as yet as to who the guitarist will be. GLENN HUGHES ON BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION: Glenn Hughes is back in a big way. Beginning his career with Trapeze, he went on to play with giant arena rockers like Deep Purple and Black Sabbath before a problem with substance abuse sidelined him in the 1980s. Hughes has been clean and sober many years now, releasing a variety of albums in different styles. His newest project is Black Country Communion, an all-star group featuring Hughes on bass and vocals, Joe Bonamassa on guitar, Jason Bonham on drums and Derek Sherinian on keyboards. The band's debut album is due in September, and it's likely to be one of the great success stories of the year, if not the decade. In an exclusive interview with Long Live Rock on Blog Talk Radio, Hughes discussed the new album and his tumultuous past. "There's no mistakes on this record. I wanted to say, 'Glenn Hughes is back, he's making rock albums,'" Hughes said. "I wanna go out there and rock. I wanna do what I wanna do with the right people. "This is kind of a family affair now. I'm getting to play music with my friends," Hughes stated. "I've known Jason since he was two years old. I'd go to his house and watch John tutor Jason at four or five years old, playing Free songs. I watched John father his kid. But Jason doesn't remember that. I can tell you this for a fact, that Jason dearly misses his dad. And it's a big thing to carry around, being the son of John Bonham. But Jason has turned his life around; he's clean and sober, and he's an amazingly funny, gifted man. There's no mistakes. I'm supposed to be playing with Jason Bonham." Hughes also discusses his past abuse of drugs and alcohol, his long career, his excitement at playing with Black Country Communion, his friend Ronnie James Dio, and much more in this wide-ranging interview at: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/07/05/interview-with-glenn-hughes-from-long-live-rock/ HEADEAST AND STRIKEFORCE LIVE IN ELPASO: Metal Shop Worldwide 97.5 FM and the Elpaso Corn Festival presents (A&M recording artists) Headeast and special guest Strikeforce at the city park on Sat Sept 11 at the Elpaso Cornfest in Elpaso, Illinois. Strikeforce and Headeast together again on tour for the first time since 1990. Strikeforce and Headeast are no strangers to the Midwest festival circuit. Strikeforce lead guitarist Duke says "we haven't played a show with Headeast in 20 years! We are looking forward to this special one off show with our old Midwest friends! This is a killer annual festival in Elpaso, Illinois that draws a good 3,000-5000 people yearly! Make plans now to attend this special gig, with two Midwest legends playing together!" INTRODUCING JAMIE MACLEOD: UK based instrumental hard rock guitarist Jamie Macleod releases Russ Tox, the brand new single from the debut Russ Tox album as a free download. The twelve track album is available now through CD Baby. Combining melodic instrumentals with jazz, acoustic, eastern and Celtic through to heavy, hook-laden bridges, and solid balls-out riffs, Jamie's sound can best be described as gutsy and genre defying - but, who does he sound like? To give you a quick reference to start from, think Pink Floyd meets Rush at a party that Larry Carlton threw for Toto with Gary Moore and Eric Johnson! Recorded in South Yorkshire, UK at the legendary Shed Dwellers Studio, Russ Tox was written, produced, played and recorded by Jamie Macleod. The new single Russ Tox is available as a FREE Download here: www.cdbaby.com/cd/macleodjamie. And to listen to further tracks, visit: www.myspace.com/jamiemacleodmusic. SLASH SET LIST FOR LIVE ALBUM?: Slash recorded his show in Manchester recently for a Live CD release, due later. The set list for the night was: Ghost, Mean Bone, Nightrain, Dirty Little Thing, Back from Cali, Beggars & Hangers On, Civil War, Rocket Queen, Fall To Pieces, Sucker Train Blues, Nothing To Say, Starlight, Watch This, Slash Guitar Solo, Godfather Theme, Sweet Child o' Mine, Rise Today, Slither, Encore: Communication Breakdown, Paradise City.

 

 

Monday, July 05, 2010

PURCHASE FIREWORKS #40 DIGITAL EDITION NOW: Fireworks 40 - Digital Edition is out now. 96 page full colour PDF containing interviews with: Sammy Hagar, Y&T, FM, Francis Rossi, Masterplan, Asia, Nazareth, RATT, Michael Monroe, Fozzy, Coheed & Cambria, Reckless Love, Crash Diet, Jim Kerr, Newman, Freedom Call, Karnataka, Kasim Sulton, Jon Oliva, Chris Laney, Griffen, On the Rise, Sacred Heart, Taking Dawn, Serpentine, Destine and many more! Free MP3 file containing full tracks by: Y&T, FM, Shining Line, Crazy Lixx, Chris Laney, Mass, Bangalore Choir, Reckless Love, Wild Side and much more. Physical hard copy available to order from www.rocktopia.co.uk. Digital Download Version (with MP3 Audio) available now right here. Audio Tracks Featured: 1. Y&T - On With the Show From the album 'Facemelter' (www.frontiers.com) 2. FM - Unbreakable From the album 'Metropolis' (www.fmofficial.com) 3. Chris Laney - Rockstar From the album 'Only Come Out at Night' (www.metalheaven.net) 4. Wild Side - Play With Me From the album 'Speed Devil' (www.escape-music.com) 5. Shining Line - Heat of the Light From the album 'Shining Line' (www.avenue-of-allies.com) 6. Reckless Love - Beautiful Bomb From the album 'Reckless Love' (www.recklesslove.com) 7. Crazy Lix - Rock and a Hard Place From the album 'New Religion' (www.frontiers.it) 8. Serpentine - A Touch of Heaven From the album 'A Touch of Heaven' (www.metalheaven.net) 9. Mass - The Right Side From the album 'Sea of Black' (www.escape-music.com) 10. Bangalore Choir - Angel in Black From the album 'On Target' (www.metalheaven.net) 11. Houston - Hold On Promotional CD single (www.rocketsongs.se) 12. Third Eye - Dark Angel From the album 'Recipe For Disaster' (www.escape-music.com) 13. Crop Circle - Recent Stranger From the album 'Come Inside' (www.myspace.com/cropcircleband) 14. Black Sand - Baby Love is True From the album 'Never Forget' (www.blacksand.at) 15. Art of Infinity - Utopia From the album 'Endless Future' (www.art-of-infinity.com) 16. Big Mama Scandal - By You From the album 'By You' (www.bigmamascandal.com) 17. Chinawhite - How Many MIles From the album 'Challanges' (www.chinawhite.nl) 18. The Crawdaddy - A Real Mother For Ya From the album 'Ressurected!' (www.mycrawdaddy.com)   ROCKTOPIA MONTHLY PODCAST + GREAT PRIZES Plus FIREWORKS MAGAZINE COMING TO WH SMITH: Rocktopia website, the home of Fireworks Magazine and Transistor Pictures, is launching a monthly Podcast featuring all the latest and greatest from the world of melodic hard rock. Hosted by Pilar Sanchez - the talent behind the biggest and best Spanish language AOR radio show Melodic Rock - AhORa Rock promises to provide all the best from the latest crop of AOR releases, including upcoming exclusive interviews (of which Gary Hughes will be one of the first, revealing all about the new Ten album). The Podcast can be streamed from the site, or downloaded, and is an hour long. To access Rocktopia (www.rocktopia.net), you need to register on the site. This is quick and easy, and takes less than a minute. As an incentive to register, and take a listen to AhORa Rock, we are offering a prize draw for EVERYONE registered on the site, come July 31st. 1st Prize - an 8Gb iPod Touch (kindly donated by Transistor Pictures). 2nd Prize - 6 Firefest DVDs, including FM, Harem Scarem, Roxx Diamond, Crunch, Valentine (NTSC) and Mitch Malloy (NTSC). 3rd Prize - 1 year subscription to Fireworks Magazine. Please support AOR and MelodicRock and take a few minutes to check out a great new Podcast! Talking of Fireworks Magazine, from next issue (#41, Aug 19th) we will be available at a large range of selected WH Smith stores throughout the UK. A full list of WH Smith stores stocking the mag will be listed at www.rocktopia.net in the next few days. Subscriptions, single issues and back issues can also be bought from the online store.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Steve Morse, Don Airey, Bob Daisley and Jimmy Barnes are recording of a new Living Loud album, set for release in Early 2011. Aussie mega-vocalist John Farnham is recording a studio album of all new material. With any luck his management team will let him off his leash long enough to rock a little. A new H.E.A.T. interview online now at: www.hallofmetal.com/ver_entrevista.php?id=189&leng=en. 6 songs from Ozzy's UK live show will get released as an iTunes exclusive EP, out Aug 5. Gibson Guitar Online have a new interview online now with Def Leppard's Phil Collen: www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/Features/phil-collen-0630/. LINE OF FIRE VIDEOCAST 2: In anticipation of the release of their sophomore album, Line Of Fire have in conjunction with Tribunal Records, put together a weekly webisode series helping fans to catch up with the band and highlighting various aspects of their forthcoming new album, Momentum. Momentum, is due in stores August 10th. Obsession - the album's first single can be heard HERE. The physical release contains an exclusive bonus cover of Dokken's Breaking The Chains. (All pre-orders will be autographed by the band). Track List: 1. It Takes Time 2. Obsession 3. Give Me All 4. I'll Be The One Tonight 5. I Belong 6. The Fire Never Dies 7. I'm Crying For You 8. In The Stone 9. Undone 10. Ghost In Your Heart 11. Breaking The Chains (CD ONLY – Bonus Track). EPISODE #2: "THE SONGS": www.tribunalrecords.net.   TED POLEY LIVE IN MA.: Maximum Capacity has made a name for itself as a Premier Rock Club in the New England area, for bringing some of rocks best acts to a live setting. Over the last year they have showcased such notables as Tyketto, LA Guns, Stephen Pearcy (of Ratt), Trixter, Firehouse, Danger Danger, Saliva, and Dokken! Welcoming back this July to our stage is Danger Danger Frontman, Ted Poley!! Along with special guests, Tango Down (featuring new Vocalist, David Reece of Bangalore Choir and Accept fame) This show is a must for any fan of the MelodicRock genre. Maximum Capacity also has a full restaurant sports bar in the down stairs area with some of the best food around. So its your one stop place for a night of food and entertainment. Ted had this to say about the upcoming show: "I am thrilled to return to Max Cap to rock the house for the D2 fans in Mass.! This club kicks ass! You WILL have a great time and you can expect to hear your fav D2 songs as well as a few gems from my solo CDs! So come out and be prepared to sing along! We are playing with my ultra talented brothers- Tango Down, what a night it will be! See you all on the 29th!" Ted Poley & Tango Down Thurs July 29th / Maximum Capacity 116 School Street / Chicopee Ma. Tix $10 / www.myspace.com/maximumcapacity / www.newmaximumcapacity.com.   TAZ TAYLOR GOES INSTRUMENTAL Taz Taylor Band are officially releasing their new CD Big Dumb Rock on July 18th! Taz takes front and center on this CD with 10 instrumental tracks of catchy hooks, explosive riffs and some of 2010's best lead guitar work. This album finds the band in fine form, returning to the original concept that the band was formed around. No holds barred, guitar driven… Hard Rock. Check out the new track Viper at the bands MySpace page www.myspace.com/taztaylorband. Order your copy today for only $10.00 at: www.taztaylor.com/taztaylorband/store.htm.

 

 

Friday, July 02, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS - ARTIST NEWS: August 27 will see Frontiers Records issue their first ballads compilation titled Power Ballads Vol. 1. The track listing will be: Journey – After All These Years (Taken From "Revelation"), Winger – On A Day Like Today (Taken From "Iv"), Glenn Hughes – Imperfection (Taken From "Music For The Divine"), Jeff Scott Soto – Holding On (Taken From "Prism"), Allen / Lande – Master Of Sorrow (Taken From "The Revenge"), Giant – Can't Let Go (Taken From "Iii"), Primal Fear – Hands Of Time (Taken From "16.6 Before The Devil Knows You're Dead"), Pride Of Lions – Interrupted Melody (Taken From "Pride Of Lions"), Place Vendome – My Guardian Angel (Taken From "Streets Of Fire"), House Of Lords – Sweet September (Taken From "Cartesian Dreams"), W.E.T. – Comes Down Like Rain (Taken From "W.E.T."), Blanc Faces – Everything (Taken From "Falling From The Moon"), Places Of Power – I Live For You (Taken From "Now Is The Hour"), Treat – A Life To Die For (Taken From "Coup De Grace"), Sunstorm – Walk On (Taken From "House Of Dreams"), Shadows Fade – Speak (Taken From "Shadows Fade").   JULY 2010 IS GUITAR VIRTUOSO MONTH AT LION MUSIC: July 16th 2010 sees the release of two of the most anticipated instrumental albums of the year with new releases from George Bellas and Alex Masi. To celebrate these releases we felt it was a good opportunity to show some more appreciation to some of the labels wealth of guitar talent with some spotlight features and new interviews. Amongst these players are a range of styles and individual musical personalities and all are recommended. Keep checking back as new features/interviews will be added every couple of days. As a special tie in we have a number of instrumental titles all packed full of stunning guitar work on sale this month only at incredibly low prices. All deals for the respective artist will be shown on the artists page but if you can't wait head on over to the Lion Music store now. To get straight into the content and for the first feature with George Bellas visit: www.lionmusic.com/virtuosoindex.html.   xx MOONDANCE JAM ROCK FESTIVAL TO BE FEATURED IN HD: For the first time in its 19 year history, the Moondance Jam rock festival will be broadcast on television. America's premier television provider, DirecTV, will air this year's festival exclusively on The 101 Network. The production company Blaze TV will be filming during the festival on July 15 – 17, and will then produce 10 one-hour shows featuring artists Sammy Hagar, REO Speedwagon, Buckcherry, Jonny Lang, Hoobastank, Collective Soul, Black Stone Cherry and Pat Travers. Additional artists may also be added from the three-day, 15 band main stage roster. The programs will air as part of the DirecTV Concert Series and begin airing on The 101 Network late this summer. "Blaze will have a crew of over 50 creative and technical personnel to record the programs at Moondance Jam using a total of 12 cameras and are employing as much local labor as they can including some camera crew from Minneapolis. The programs will be recorded in High Definition and the audio will be recorded in Surround sound. It is a million dollar production. In addition to the cameras and sound, Blaze will be bringing in $100,000 worth of additional lighting to boost the production value of the shows," said Blaze TV founder, producer and director, Conor McAnally. Moondance Jam owners, Bill and Kathy Bieloh, are ecstatic to be able to have their festival filmed and produced by a production company whose philosophy is to shoot from the fan's perspective. "Not only are we excited that our festival will be shown on DirecTV, but it will be produced by a company that shares our philosophy that it is about the fans. Kathy and I started Moondance Jam in 1992 as party for friends and family and now it has grown into Minnesota's largest rock festival bringing in over 50,000 friends and family through the gates over three days," says Bill Bieloh. "Over the years we have always done everything we could to keep Moondance Jam a fan friendly rock festival. We still maintain open festival seating for general admission ticket holders so they can get up close to the stage. We also added a restaurant and bar that overlooks the backstage area a few years ago that is open to all fans. Our fans need to have that full concert experience for the amazing artists that put on such great shows every year. So to have Blaze TV come in and recreate that experience for fans that have never been to Moondance is a dream come true for us." Moondance Jam 19 will be held July 15-17, 2010 on the 300 acre Moondance Events festival grounds near Walker, MN. Moondance Jam is Minnesota's largest rock festival and the premier classic rock festival in the U.S. Call the Moondance Hotline at 877-MOONJAM or go to www.moondancejam.com for more information including schedules, tickets, camping and more. ERIC MARTIN TO RELEASE THE NEW COMPILATION ALBUM: Press Release / Eric Martin's talents as a vocalist and a songwriter have been highly evaluated since his solo debut back in 1985, and this was even before he joined the super rock band, Mr. Big. The year 2010 marks his 25th Anniversary as a solo singer, and Sony Music Japan International will release his new compilation album Love Is Alive - Works of 1985-2010 on September 8th. In addition to this exciting news, his newest penned titled track-ballad, Love Is Alive has garnered 2 powerful tie-ins: * Theme song for the film "Koi Suru Napolitan - Sekai De Ichiban Oishii Aisarekata" (starring: Saki Aibu, Daisuke Maki, Takashi Tsukamoto) which opens in theatres (nationwide in Japan) from September 11th. * Ending theme song for NTV -Networks' popular variety show "The! Sekai Gyouten News" (starts airing July 7th) The album includes 14 songs - 7 songs highlighting Eric's 25 years of his magnificent career in the music business, plus 3 brand new songs and 3 rare bonus tracks. Tracklist: 1. Love Is Alive (2010) 2. Fly (2002, from the album "I'm Goin' Sane") 3. You're Too Good For Him (2003, from the album "Destroy All Monsters") 4. Bigger Man (2002, from the album "Pure") 5. Wink and A Smile (1998, from the album "Somewhere In The Middle") 6. Eyes Of The World (1985, from the album "Eric Marin") 7. Every Time I Think Of You (1987, from the album "I'm Fooling Myself") 8. Everyday (2002, from the album "I'm Goin' Sane") 9. All Cried Out (2010 - new song) 10. Let's Get It Over With (2010 - new song) 11. Sleepwalking (2010 - new song) / Bonus Tracks 12. Can't Take My Eyes Off You (2010) 13. Tell The Truth (Masahiro Ando Project feat. Eric Martin, 2007, from T-SQUARE album "33") 14. To Be with You (2009, from the DVD "Mr. Vocalist - A Special Night In Tokyo") From Eric Martin: "Hey guys, I'm excited about this new solo album and especially this new track I wrote, "Love is Alive." I watched the film Koi Suru Napolitan and even in a different language it was a great movie. I can't believe my solo career is at the 25 year mark. I'm happy to have such a great fanbase; believe me without all of you I wouldn't have made it all of these years. I'm hard at work in the studio and have been for the last month. Once I'm done with this album, it's off to write songs for the new Mr. Big album that we start tracking in September. I can't wait!!!!!" REVIEWS UPDATED: CD Reviews have been updated with the following new titles reviewed: Y&T, Shining Line, Pretty Maids, Yoso, Tony Harnell, Vince Neil, Vanden Plas, John Waite, Drive She Said, Wild Side, 8 Point Rose, Third Eye and Triumph. Read the Reviews now. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: CD Showcase has been updated with the following new titles to preview: Terry Brock, First Signal & Stan Bush (Frontiers Records, August 27 release); Terra Nova, Yoso, Tony Harnell & Jorn (Frontiers Records, out now); Jon Mullane & Ferreira (Escape Music, July 23 release); Grand Illusion, Bangalore Choir, Wicked Sensation & Bad Habit (AOR Heaven, out now), Export (Rock Candy, out now) and Michael Abdow (Shredguy Records, out now). Sample all these releases now. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following: Slash - Live Palace Theatre, Melbourne, Australia April 28th, 2010 (8 Tracks, killer audio!) and the following new Video Clips: Jorn - Song For Ronnie James, Tony Harnell & the Mercury Train - Northern Lights, Skill In Veins - Youth Times, Stone Temple Pilots - Between the Lines, Ozzy Osbourne - Let Me Hear You Scream, and Ratt - Best of Me. MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, July 01, 2010

ROCK CANDY RECORDS INTRODUCES GRIND THAT AXE: Pre-order now at a discounted price of £9.99 each including postage to anywhere in the world with immediate dispatch on July 12 - www.rockcandyrecords.com   Rock Candy Records launches sister label Grind That Axe with two new releases July 19. The label will focus on fresh studio recordings from established classic rock artists keen to move with the times and prove that energy and ambition is not solely restricted to new-on-the-scene upstarts. The launch commences with two favoured acts namely Enuff Z'Nuff and Little Caesar both brandishing their finest recordings for some considerable time... They say that when the going gets tough the tough get going. It's an old adage that could be applied to numerous rock bands who refuse to die, but for Enuff Z'Nuff it's become, more or less, a battle code. In fact it's a maxim that that they've lived by since day one of their inception. 'Dissonance' is a record full of all things sugar and spice with a sound and swagger that continues in the finest EZN tradition of razor sharp riffs and melodies to die for. The great thing about core duo Donnie Vie and Chip Z'Nuff is that they instinctively know how to inject both the maximum amount of muscle into every riff and squeeze the best out of every chorus. If you don't believe it then plug-in and play tracks such as the title song 'Dissonance', 'Lazy Dazy', 'Code Red', 'High' and the beautiful ballad 'Roll Away'. All Prime EZN with all the grand musical accoutrements you would reasonably expect. And, as a special treat, the album contains two additional bonus tracks not available on the Japanese release. The band have just completed a short trip to the UK where they played four shows – two of which were at the Download Festival with another full UK tour planned for later in the year and an appearance at Hard Rock Hell in December. Track listing: 1. Dissonance 2. Fine Line 3. Lazy Dazy 4. Rollaway 5. High 6. Altered States 7. Playground 8. Sometimes 9. Joni Lynn 10. Chicago 11. Code Red (Bonus track - Studio Outtake) 12. When Doves Cry 13. Run For Your Life (Bonus track - Studio Outtake). WebLinks: www.enuffznuff.com / www.myspace.com/znuff. Twenty years ago if you were an MTV devotee - and let's face it most of us were - you'd have had your senses assaulted by blasts of soulful hard rock from Little Caesar, a tatted-up bunch of mean bikers from Los Angeles. They stood out a mile from the big haired, lipstick smeared glam contingency displaying a complete disregard for fads and fashion (always a sign of quality) which was proven by a cool-as-a-cucumber cover of 'Chain Of Fools', a sixties r 'n'b classic made popular by Aretha Franklin. It was a convincing performance alright, separating the men from the boys by virtue of its pulsating energy and vocalist Ron Young's gargantuan vocal delivery. In 2010, Little Caesar can be found moving forward with a vengeance. The band has crafted a new album, titled 'Redemption', a record full of vim and vinegar. Going back to their roots – not that they ever left them – the emphasis is on tough-guy riffs, blues soaked vocals and the sort of earthy vibe that suggests men on one hell of a mission. This is soulful blues-rock that defies compartmentalization and conjures up images of packed clubs, sweat soaked walls and determination beyond the call of duty. Little Caesar is Ron Young (vocals), Loren Molinare and Joey Brasler (guitars), Fidel Paniagua (bass) and Tom Morris (drums). Look out for European performances later in the year. Track listing: 1) Same Old Story 2) Supersonic 3) Loving You Is Killing Me 4) Witness Stand 5) Redemption 6) Sick And Tired 7) Real Rock Drive 8) That Was Yesterday 9) Every Picture Tells A Story/ Happy 10) Woodstock 11) Just Like A Woman. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/littlecaesarband / littlecaesarband.blogspot.com / www.rockcandyrecords.com.   xx NO NEW WHITE SISTER RELEASE JUST YET: Following White Sister's triumphant performances at Firefest in the last couple of years, news of a new album from the lads has generated a lot of talk. It's time for an update. Who better than to ask but the band's own Dennis Dries. Dennis commented to me this week: "We talked about putting an album together of re-works, but honestly, everyone's just too busy with their lives to make time for it. Gary is working on his band (Fast Machine), Rick is quite busy and successful working as an Audio Engineer, and I have a full time job as well. We're regular guys with family, jobs…regular stuff! A lot of people think we make a living with WS, but it's just not the case…never was unfortunately. As for new material, we talked about putting a couple of new songs in with the re-works.... I turned 21 while recording WS1! It still blows me away that people still talk about it, and are still discovering it after all these years…amazing…so maybe we shouldn't try to create that again, and just leave it alone?!!" So what is Dennis working on right now? He answered that also: "For now I'm having fun recording songs that have been tucked away in a shoebox, and in my head…on a digital multi-tack I picked up on eBay! Some WS tunes, some Tattoo Rodeo, and some new stuff. I don't know where it's all going yet, but as long as I can still bark out a tune I'm gonna lay it down while I can!" Dennis has been very kind to put his hand up to be included on an upcoming MelodicRock compilation. A first-take demo of a song called All Out Of Tears will appear on MRCD8 - The Ballads later in the year. RICHARD PAGE SURPRISES WITH NEW STUDIO RELEASE: Mr. Mister vocalist Richard Page has announced the release of a new studio album - his first in over a decade - for July 5. The announcement was made with little fanfare on his website. Titled Peculiar Life, the album will feature musicians: Vinnie Colaiuta, Louis Conté, James Harrah, Kevin McCormick, Greg Leisz, Keith McCabe, Shenkar, Satnam Ramgotra, Doug Lacy, Ira Nepus, Mike Nelson, Jon Papenbrook, tom Peterson, George Shelby. Purchase direct via: www.richardpagemusic.com.   SWEDEN PAYS TRIBUTE TO RJD: On October 7-8 musicians from some of the most important bands on the Swedish metal scene will join forces to pay tribute to the legendary Ronnie James Dio, who recently passed away. Songs from Dio's career with Rainbow, Black Sabbath and the band Dio will be performed. The core band of the evening will be melodic metallers Lion's Share, fronted by Nils Patrik Johansson (Astral Doors). Guest artists confirmed this far: Björn Gelotte and Peter Iwers (In Flames), Joacim Cans (Hammerfall), Ian Haugland (Europe), Mikael Åkerfeldt (Opeth), Jens Johansson (Stratovarius, ex-Dio), Messiah Marcolin (ex-Candlemass), Johan Edlund (Tiamat), Joakim Berg and Magnus "Adde" Andreasson (Hardcore Superstar), Johan Hegg (Amon Amarth), Mike Wead (Bible Black, King Diamond). More guest artits may be added. During the cruise, money will be raised to Dios "Stand up and shout" cancer fund. Five other bands will be playing on board. Confirmed this far are: Tiamat, Alien (original line-up!), Nifelheim. Tickets are available from 395 SEK, including part in a cabin. More info is available on our website: www.swedenrockcruise.com. SANTANA'S COVERS PARTIALLY REVEALED: Further to yesterday's news that Santana would cover Van Halen on his upcoming album. One of the Noticeboard regulars dug up this info as far as tracks announced so far. They are: Cream "Sunshine of Your Love" (with Rob Thomas), The Beatles' "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" (with India.Arie and Yo-Yo Ma); Jimi Hendrix's "Little Wing" (with Joe Cocker); Rolling Stones' "Can't You Hear Me Knocking" (with Scott Weiland); Van Halen's "Dance The Night Away" (with Pat Monahan); Def Leppard's "Photograph" (with Chris Daughtry); AC/DC's "Back In Black" (with Nas); Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love" (with Chris Cornell) solo renditions of Deep Purple's "Smoke on the Water" and Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Fortunate Son". INTRODUCING RENEGADE CREATION: Renegade Creation is the new record by veteran musical giants, Michael Landau, Robben Ford, Jimmy Haslip and Gary Novak. Blending together to create a blues-driven sound that not only will satisfy their individual fans but is fresh enough to attract a legion of new fans as well. Delivering both rootsy, blues/rock vocal tunes and fiery instrumentals, the band draws on the unique guitar interplay between guitar giants Robben Ford and Michael Landau who inspire each other to new personal bests. Michael Landau, Robben Ford, Jimmy Haslip And Gary Novak: www.reverbnation.com/michaellandaurobbenfordjimmyhaslipandgarynovak.

 

 

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

VAN HALEN - POSSIBLE LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL?: It's been a while since I reached out to one of my best sources of Van Halen info over the years, but it had to be done. And I got the information I was hoping for - independent confirmation from a long time source I trust that Van Halen are indeed working towards finishing recording of a long awaited new studio album with David Lee Roth, set for release sometime in the first half of 2011. A single is slated for release before the end of this year, but exact timing still remains very much up in the air. I'm told the relationship between Eddie and Dave remains as complex as ever, but there is a definite desire to get a new record completed. Incidentally - I'm told that Santana will cover the Van Halen classic Dance The Night Away on his next album of tracks featuring different singers (no word on the vocalist). It was suggested to me that Eddie would apparently still like to pursue this idea one day. I'm sure you'll remember that little nugget coming to light via one of my reports nearly a decade ago now. Stay tuned as always... BETTER DAYS FOR RANSOM FANS: Yesterrock Records in Germany will release the new Ransom album Better Days on Friday. Don Cromwell is a professional producer/songwriter/musician based in Los Angeles. Originally from the East Bay Area in Northern California, Don spent several years in the Seattle music scene before relocating to Southern California. He became a fixture at the avant-garde label Unicorn Records, writing songs for and performing on many of their diverse releases. From 1983 through 1987, Don toured as the bass player with the renowned pop group Air Supply. While with the band, he worked with top producers in the studio, co-wrote songs on the hit album 'Air Supply,' and appeared in numerous videos and television performances. Following Air Supply, Don played bass with rock legend Eddie Money, touring and recording with him over the next six years. Don teamed up with long-time Eddie guitarist - Tommy Girvinto form the group Ransom, releasing an album in Europe and Japan entitled 'Trouble in Paradise.' The CD was well received, with two tracks charting on Germany's Melodic Rock Traxx top 100. After deciding to forego life on the road, Don has gone on to write and produce for Eddie Money, Jennifer Rush, Jana Anderson (of Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac), and several top EMI Europe artists. He has recently completed production on Air Supply lead vocalist Russell Hitchcock's solo CD - 'Take Time.' Don still enjoys playing live whenever possible, and with his production company and studio, continues to produce and write for both up-and-coming and established artists. With their new album 'Better Days' which once again was produced by Don Cromwell with Tommy Girwin, the guys return with an excellent record into your players. It's obvious that the songs come from the 80's and continue the sound of the debut – it is exactly what the fans expect. Overall, this is a fine release which the opener, the track 'Better Days', and the power ballad 'Learn To Be Alone' perfectly proof – they re-awaken memories on better days of the music business. You can listen to a the song Party Life on MySpace: www.myspace.com/yesterrock. Line-Up: Tommy Girvin - Guitar & Vocals; Don Cromwell - Bass, Keyboards; Rock Hampton - Drums.   xx GARY WRIGHT WEAVES NEW DREAMS WITH 'CONNECTED': Gary Wright has had a long career, from performing with Spooky Tooth in the 1960s, to touring with Ringo Starr this summer. But he's undoubtedly best known for his 1976 monster hit "Dream Weaver," and in an exclusive interview with Long Live Rock on Blog Talk Radio, he revealed that he doesn't mind being so strongly associated with the song, even after three decades. "It's still played all over radio today, so that's fortunate," Wright says. "With me, it's never been a downside. I try to always make my productions be timeless, not dated-sounding. If you write a song that the production makes it sound like it's locked into a certain era, that's kind of a downside. I think 'Dream Weaver,' the production on it is more timeless." The song has been introduced to several subsequent generations through prominent film placements, most recently in the new installment of 'Toy Story.' Gary Wright recently released his first pop album in twenty years. Entitled Connected, the album features guest appearances by Ringo Starr, Joe Walsh and Jeff "Skunk" Baxter and showcases the same kind of timeless arrangements his fans expect. Wright is currently on tour with Ringo Starr and the All Starr Band. Listen to the interview at this link: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/06/28/interview-with-gary-wright. PAPA ROACH VIDEO DEBUT: Los Angeles, CA - Multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated Papa Roach will debut their video for new single "Kick in the Teeth" tomorrow, June 30, exclusively on Vevo, the internet's largest music video content provider. The track is the lead single, which is currently leaping up radio's Active Rock chart, from the band's August 31 release Time For Annihilation... On The Record And On The Road, their debut album on new label Eleven Seven Music. TOBY KNAPP FEATURED ON GUITAR WORLD DVD: Guitarist Toby Knapp is on the CD-Rom in the August issue of Guitar World. A bio and the title track from his latest solo release The Campaign is featured. The title track is the instrumental favorite on the CD, which also features four guest vocalists including Attila Csihar of Mayhem. Knapp also wrapped finishing his guest solo spot on the upcoming Adrian English CD, and will soon be visiting SCL amplification in Germany to help expose a new line of amps that he had designed to his specifications. Topping that off is a probable tour with his and Jeff Gruslin's band Godless Rising. So needless to say this summer is packed for this guitar virtuoso.   ROMEO'S DAUGHTER GIG TO BROADCAST LIVE: The Romeo's Daughter concert at Winstanley College on July 8 will be streamed live over the web. A direct link will be added on the Winstanley College homepage (www.winstanley.ac.uk) closer to the date. The band will be due on stage at 8.30, however support from a student (Sarah Holding) of the college will be broadcasted at 7.30pm.

 

 

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

LATEST FROM ROCK CANDY RECORDS: These releases are available immediately from the Rock Candy Records website (www.rockcandyrecords.com) for a discounted price of £10.99 each including postage to anywhere in the world ending July 12. Barry Goudreau 'S/T' CANDY076 / There's no getting away from the fact that the debut Boston album was one of the greatest, and of course most successful, recordings in the history of rock music. It was a record that changed the lives of the band members forever, rapidly elevating them from humble beginnings to headlining huge arenas worldwide. But good fortune soon turned to disappointment as the band slowly began to implode under the constant demand to keep the cogs of their hit making machine in motion. By 1980 Boston was effectively put on ice by leader Tom Scholz, in an effort to resolve numerous business differences, leaving the rest of the group with time on their hands. Guitarist Barry Goudreau seized the moment and set about recording a solo album, enlisting the help of then unknown vocalist Fran Cosmo who, ironically, would later go on to replace front man Brad Delp in Boston. Every inch as good as a fully-formed Boston album, the record is choc full of superbly constructed songs, great hooks, impressive production (from John Boylan, the producer of the debut Boston album) and Goudreau's unmistakable, rich guitar tone. Look out too for further support from fellow Bostonians Sib Hashian and Brad Delp. A great lost classic for sure and one that sounds as impressive today as it did when first released. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album and a new interview with Barry. Additional photos and memorabilia spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track list: Track list: 1. 'Hard Luck' 2. 'Nothin' To Lose' 3. 'What's A Fella To Do?' 4. 'Mean Woman Blues' 5. 'Leavin' Tonight' 6. 'Dreams' 7. 'Life Is What We Make It' 8. 'Sailin' Away' 9. 'Cold Cold World'. Steve Walsh 'Schemer Dreamer' CANDY077 - Kansas were one of the most successful American rock bands during the 1970's. Their carefully constructed brand of progressive rock managed to not only appeal to album buyers but also delivered hit singles ('Carry On Wayward Son' and 'Dust In The Wind'). Front man Steve Walsh provided unique appeal, lifting melodies up into the stratosphere and delivering class-A performances night after night. Inevitably Kansas's success led to some its members looking for further opportunities and, following a solo album from guitarist Kerry Livgren, vocalist Steve Walsh was the second member to branch out and record an album of his own titled 'Schemer Dreamer', released in 1980. Taking his cue from their most successful record 'Point Of Know Return', the emphasis was on shorter more accessible tracks but was still imbued with supreme instrumental agility and, of course, his signature vocal. Indeed, the Kansas connection was still very much in evidence, not only in the songs but also in the studio, where several members of the band helped out (Kerry Livgren, Phil Ehart and Rich Williams) as well as members of Dixie Dreggs, including guitarist Steve Morse who, ironically, went on to join Kansas in 1986. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 2,000 word essay about the making of the album and full lyrics. Additional photos and memorabilia spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track list: 1. 'Schemer-Dreamer/That's All Right' 2. 'Get Too Far' 3. 'So Many Nights' 4. 'You Think You Got It Made' 5. 'Every Step Of The Way' 6. 'Just How It Feels' 7. 'Wait Until Tomorrow'.   xx R.I.P. BILL AUCOIN - INDUSTRY LEGEND: William Aucoin, beloved record industry executive, manager, entrepreneur, and creative visionary, passed away this morning, Monday, June 28 at 9:11 a.. EST at the Aventura Hospital and Medical Center in Aventura, Florida. Born December 29, 1943, Bill was battling prostate cancer, and passed away from surgical complications. The man known for masterminding the career of the world-renowned group Kiss, Bill Aucoin also managed Starz, Toby Beau, Billy Squier, Billy Idol, and numerous other artists. His most recent venture is Aucoin Globe Entertainment, which he founded in 2007. In its three years, Bill and his company developed bands in the U.S. and around the world. He leaves behind his boyfriend of fifteen years, Roman Fernandez, and two sisters Betty Britton and Janet Bankowski. Funeral arrangements are pending. Canada's largest Broadcaster remembers Bill Aucoin: www.ctv.ca/CTVNews/EntertainmentV2/20100628/ent-aucoin-obituary-100628 Ace Frehley comments: "Bill was a very gifted guy with a great eye for talent! Through all the ups and downs, he never lost his big smile and sense of humor...We remained friends till the end." VINCE NEIL SCREWS UP AGAIN: Vince Neil has screwed up again. He has just added a DUI arrest in Las Vegas - wonderwall.msn.com/music/vince-neil-arrested-on-dui-charge-in-las-vegas-1558597.story?Gt1=28135. And this: www.tmz.com/2010/06/28/vince-neil-las-vegas-camera-smash-photo-paparazzi-cops-las-vehas-hilton "Law enforcement sources tell TMZ -- around 11:53 PM, a woman told police Neil had grabbed her camera and smashed it after she took his picture sometime last night. We're told cops went looking for Neil to question him about the incident -- and a short time later, officers spotted Neil's car and pulled him over ... where he was subsequently arrested on suspicion of DUI. TMZ spoke to Neil's wife -- who tells us the rocker had been sober for three years. She's currently en route to Vegas to bail Vince out. Update 10:58 AM PT: Law enforcement sources tell TMZ they received a call about an intoxicated driver. We're told cops found Neil driving near Las Vegas Blvd. and pulled him over. Officers detected alcohol and he was given a field sobriety test and was subsequently placed under arrest for suspicion of DUI. Neil posted bail within the hour." GUN WITHOUT FRONTMAN ONCE AGAIN: Bad news for fans of the current Gun line-up - Announcement from Toby Jepson: "Due to increasing writing and production commitments for other artists, I have decided to leave Gun as the singer. I have had a fantastic time working with Jools and Dante and consider the music we have created together as being amongst the best I have been involved in throughout my career . I wish them well and sincerely hope that we will work together again in some capacity in the future. I stress that that I am in no way leaving the world of live music, far from it, it is simply that at the moment I cannot commit 100% to future Gun plans and would not want to stand in the way of the bands potential further development . I fully intend to resurface as a rock singer in one way or another in the near future so watch this space..." - Toby Jepson, Scarborough, June 2010. Announcement from Jools & Dante: "Following on from Toby's announcement we will take some time out to decide Gun's future. The last couple of years have been great and we have really enjoyed playing the gigs. Thanks to Toby for being an excellent frontman and thanks to the fans for supporting us. Dante and I will keep you posted with what's happening.......so don't go away now!" MELODIC BRIEFS: Circle II Circle has been working hard on their highly anticipated 5th studio album "Consequence of Power". Check out LoudTrax.com to read a studio diary written exclusively by the band, which is picturing the most recent progress of the recording sessions! The album is set for a Fall 2010 release. Steve Hackett and Renaissance performed in NYC last week, here is a report: www.piercingmetal.com/wordpress/?p=3950. Little Caesar is gearing up for the 'official' release of Redemption through Rock Candy/Grind That Axe on July 19th. Vocalist Ron Young tells Sleaze Roxx, "It's not really a reissue, it is kind of like finally checking it out of the closest." Read the complete interview at: www.sleazeroxx.com/interviews/ronyoung.shtml. SINOCENCE ADD NEW DRUMMER: Since its release in 2009 the Sinocence album Scar Obscura has attracted great reviews, airplay on Bruce Dickinson's BBC radio show and inclusion in Metal Hammer's Covermount CD in Feb 2010. However, believing that the album could reach a wider audience, the band have decided to re-release 'Scar Obscura' later this year (with bonus tracks & new booklet). In support of the album re-release Sinocence will be touring the UK in November (dates TBC). On 22 June, Lawrence 'Larry' Paterson (ex-Blaze Bayley band) joined Sinocence as the new drummer. Sinocence have also now begun writing their third album which will be released in 2011. HARTMANN ON TOUR: GerMusica Promotion & Management are happy to announce the addition of the band Hartmann to their band management pool. After 4 successful albums Oliver Hartmann left At Vance and started to focus more on the songwriting for his new band Hartmann. The first album Out in the cold was released in 2005 and reviewed as "album of the month" in many well known rock magazines all over the world. After touring over Europe in 2006 as support for rock legend Toto the band went back to the studio to record the second album Home, followed by support tours for House Of Lords and the Hooters in summer 2007. In September 2007 the band played two exclusive shows in the intimate atmosphere of an old German theater. Supported by three background singers as special guests both shows were filmed and recorded for the live DVD/CD Handmade. After the world wide tour in 2008 as guitarist and singer for Tobias Sammet's Avantasia, side projects as Vindictiv, several European shows with Hartmann as support for Edguy in spring 2009, now the new Hartmann studio album named 3 was released in November on the new founded record label SONIC 11 in co-operation with CMM/Germany. The record received many great critics of the global press and been supported live with some support shows for Uriah Heep in May/ June 2010. Hartmann on tour: 16.07.10 D-Darmstadt, Centralstation (support for Mothers Finest) 06.08. D-Rieneck, Rock am Tunnel Open Air 20.08. D-Mönchberg, Rock Im Bad 28.08.10 D-Echzelll, Stadthalle - charity show "Grätsche gegen Rechts" (+ 2 more Bands) 29.08. D-Aschaffenburg, Stadtfest 17.09. D-Idstein, Scheuer (+ Red Circuit) 18.09. D-Seidenroth, Eulenspiegel 16.10. D-Bad Windsheim, Music Café Jam 17.10. D-Wendlingen, Heat Festival 26.10.10 D-Bruchsal, Fabrik (with Y&T) 29.10. D-Aschaffenburg, Colossaal (with Y&T) 03.11. D-Köln, Undrground (with Y&T) Hartmann are: Oliver Hartmann (voc/git), Mario Reck (git), Armin Donderer (bass), Dario Ciccioni (drums) More on the web: www.oliverhartmann.com / www.myspace.com/oliverhartmann / www.youtube.com/user/oliverhartmann.

 

 

Monday, June 28, 2010

MECCA ADDS BOBBY KIMBALL - OFFICIALLY!: I know a lot of folks out there are eagerly anticipating the new Mecca album Catharsis, due for release....er....sometime soon! Their appearance at MelodicRockFest 2 was inspirational in making the final push to competition. Now comes the news that former Toto vocalist Bobby Kimball has been confirmed as the album's second lead vocalist - alongside founder Joe Vana. Joe Vana commented exclusively for melodicrock.com: "I am beyond excited to have Bobby on the other side of the mic. I have completed more on this record over the last 3 months than the last 3 years!! It is finally rounding the corner on the way to the finish line. After being very sick and thinking I may be checking out, to now working very hard at getting things in order and even playing live at "MRFest2" I am without words really how lucky I am. Mecca II has truly become everything I envisioned it to be 5 years ago. Bobby has been a dear friend for many years, a mentor and one of my idols...I am blessed to have his enormous talent stand beside me, and for me to hear his voice with Pat's drums over tunes I wrote and co-wrote, well what could I ever dream for more.....the fun has just begun!" And in reply, Bobby Kimball added his own comments: "I'm very happy to be able to help a friend in need. Joe has always been a good friend, and it's the least I could do to help him by offering my services to get this 2nd CD finished after all he's been through over the past few years. I'll do anything to help my friends, and since it's a music project, that makes it all that much easier to enjoy. I'm sure the Mecca II CD will shine like a diamond soon." ARNEL CONTRIBUTES TO NEXT "ROCKING" JOURNEY ALBUM: Journey vocalist Arnel Pineda has once again stepped in to deny rumors he had left the band. Speaking on Pilipino TV last week the singer confirmed his involvement in the band and their new record, which has been largely completed under the guidance on producer Kevin Shirley in San Francisco. Shirley worked with the band on their hit Revelation album as well as the Perry comeback record Trial By Fire from 1997. It is rumored former vocalist Steve Perry recently handed Kevin Shirley solo material to mix and master. Pineda commented that he contributed songwriting on two songs for the as yet untitled new Journey album, due for release in 2011, after finishing touches and mixing take place in November. The songs To Whom It May Concern and She's A Mystery join 9 other confirmed tracks in play. Producer Shirley earlier commented about the recording process on his Blog: "Work on Journey continues....seven slamming tracks thus far, and nary a ballad in sight, and a few more due today. Neal is hell bent on rockin' out and he's quite a force to reckon with when he sets his mind on something!" and "The new songs are very, very creative and rocking, and I like the creativity within Journey, but (like every other band) there are internal rubs (after 30 years in the business) which makes the days not necessarily as much fun as hard work. There is a theme to the entire album, which is very sexy and very rocking..." CRY WOLF OPEN NEW WEBSITE TO PROMOTE STUDIO ALBUM: San Francisco rockers Cry Wolf have reformed and have released a brand new album independently titled Twenty Ten. Their new website www.crywolftheband.com is open now, with fans able to contact the band via info@crywolftheband.com. The band sent me this bio: "In 1986, the band moved to Los Angeles and started working the Hollywood club circuit along with many other melodic rock hair bands. To generate a mailing list and search for a name at the same time the band ran a contest in the local BAM magazine. The person(s) who came up with the winning name would win Motley Crue tickets. The name "Cry Wolf" was chosen out of hundreds of entries. At about the same time, a demo of the band was out on the streets and was starting a buzz on the strip. Kerrang gave a raving review and word got out in Europe and Japan and Cry Wolf was convinced to release it as a limited red vinyl in Japan and do a handful of live shows, all of which sold out. The band was promptly offered a recording contract and released their critically acclaimed self-titled debut on Epic/Sony which featured the Beatles song "I Am The Walrus". The Japanese success led to an American recording contract and the re-release of the debut album on Grand Slamm/IRS, titled "Crunch". This album, along with the debut in Japan were produced and engineered by David DeVore (REO Speedwagon, Foreigner), and mixed by Joe Barresi (Queens of the Stone Age, The Melvins). The US release had a little different track listing. The band dropped "I Am The Walrus" and "Wings" and replaced them with "Road To Ruin", "On The Run" and "Dirty Dog Night". Along with an immensely popular MTV Japan video of "West Wind Blows", the band also released a video for "Pretender" on MTV's Headbangers Ball. While touring in support of Crunch, the band had played along side such bands as Kings-X, Savatage, Every Mother's Nightmare, Saigon Kick, Judas Priest, Lynch Mob as well as many others. While on tour in support of "Crunch", however, the band's equipment truck was stolen along with all of their gear. About this time the musical tide was changing and the Seattle music scene was exploding. The members of Cry Wolf decided to part ways and embark on new musical adventures. Tim Hall started and continues to front Fast Otto, putting out their brand of rockabilly deluxe. Steve McKnight wrote songs and recorded with Mike Inez (Alice in Chains) and worked in film and commercial scoring. Late in 2007, Cry Wolf played together for the first time in nearly 15 years at a small Bay Area venue. The magic was still there and strong, and Cry Wolf is discovering a wide audience for hard rock delivered with fire, emotion and relevance without being nostalgic. The group now comprised of original members Tim Hall (Lead Vocals), Steve McKnight (Guitar and Vocals), Phil Deckard (Bass and Vocals), and new drummer and vocalist Chris Moore, worked with producer and composer Bob Daspit (Sammy Hagar and the Waboritas, Bryson Van Cleve, Cleveland Browns theme, Stuntman:Ignition) in late 2009-early 2010 to record 14 new songs. Cry Wolf's new release Twenty Ten just hit Internet retail outlets, with radio and shows to follow. It's a new era for Cry Wolf.   HANSEL NEVER SAY DIE DESPITE SET BACK: Like an Icelandic volcano Hansel erupted in January spilling their molten melodic juices onto the rock scene with their new album Never Say Die, With great reviews and some good promotion Hansel had a fantastic response and sold a whole bunch of CDs and mp3 downloads. All looked set for Hansel to flow over Europe in summer and solidify their place in the rock world with a label-organized tour. Jett Jones hit the road to Norway mid March where he got hitched (married) and the boys were to meet him in May. However, as the rock and roll rollercoaster goes the contract with the economically crumbling Greek based label they were negotiating with managed to fall through like an empty crater, leaving them with their ethereal butts hanging in the ashen breeze. Hansel couldn't stop spraying out the molten metal, so in the meantime they have been shooting and producing their explosive film clip to Eruption, (with UK based Puzzleface films) the second track from Never Say Die (an ironic title I guess). Not to succumb to the volcanic ash cloud they have stood tall, dusted themselves off and will unveil this classic Hansel green-screen driven masterpiece officially on June 30ton www.youtube.com and their website www.hanselsohotrightnow.com. Check out behind the scenes of the clip at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=td-0XFYIBPI. STRIKEFORCE TO JOIN HERMAN ZE GERMAN LIVE: Midwest melodic rockers Strikeforce have been added to the one off show with Herman Ze German in St. Louis On Sat July 17, at rockers in house springs, mo. Duke Jackson (lead guitar) and Joe Council (bass) will be doing double duty with both Strikeforce and Herman Ze German. Strikeforce's 2006 release reign of fire (retrospect records) has been re-released on www.sweetsounds.us and Sweetsounds/Island Def Jam for worldwide distribution. Strikeforce"s current line-up consists of Duke Jackson - Lead Guitar; Joe Council - Bass; Tim Sullivan - Drums; Travis Wyant - Vocals. Strikeforce plan on recording a new CD this fall, for yet to be determined label!   MELODIC BRIEFS: Actor Adam Sandler has always had a knack for including standout classic rock tunes in his movies. His latest flick, 'Grown Ups,' is no different, as Triumph's hard rocking "Lay it on the Line" is included in the movie, which opens in the US June 25tand will be released in Europe In the late summer. "Greatest Hits: Remixed' was released throughout Europe on Frontiers in May. All of Triumph's classic tunes that were - and continue to be - in heavy rotation on rock radio (and the early days of MTV) are included here, namely, the aforementioned "Lay it on the Line," as well as "Hold On," "Fight the Good Fight," "Magic Power," etc. 707's rock hit "I Could Be Good For You" is featured in the new Adam Sandler film "Grown Ups" and on the Soundtrack. The film opens June 25. Original 707 members Kevin Russell (guitar-vocals) & Phil Bryant (bass-vocals) are back together again. 707 dates start late summer 2010 - winter 2011. For 707 date listings check: www.myspace.com/kevinrusselldetroit. Be the first to check out TWO brand new singles coming from Roxx Records! The first new single 'Sin' from the Moshketeers and the brand new single 'Shame' from Crystavox! And befriend us on our new Roxx Records Fan Page: www.facebook.com/pages/Roxx-Records/114101101968955?ref=sgm. A new interview conducted with Aurora Sky frontman, Andrew West can be viewed here: www.away-team.com/rock/2010/06/skys-the-limit-an-interview-with-aurora-skys-andrew-gambit-west. Also at Away Team - an awesome review of the day at M3 with a full pictorial by Marcy Royce: www.away-team.com/rock/2010/06/m3-rock-festival-june-19-2010. Bombay Black bassist Ty Sims checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about the release of their brand new studio effort Love You to Death; why they went the "do it yourself" route this time around; how the band has managed to keep all original band members together since the group's debut; how the songwriting is evolving in the band; upcoming tour plans, including Dakota Rock Fest; and a whole lot more. To hear the audio interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/ty-sims-of-bombay-black. INTRODUCING - THE DIGITAL DICTATORS: The Digital Dictators are a newly launched graphics company specializing in covers, posters, logos, t-shirts, backdrops, DVD (post-) production and all things media. Based in Germany and Sweden, The Digital Dictators combine 20+ years of experience in graphic and printing technology and have produced artwork/DVDs for the likes of Pretty Maids, Bad Habit, Robin Beck, Royal Hunt and various others. Get in touch via info@thedigtaldictators.com.   LINE OF FIRE LAUNCHING NEW MOMENTUM: In anticipation of the release of their sophomore album LINE OF FIRE have, in conjunction with Tribunal Records, put together a weekly webisode series helping fans to catch up with the band and highlighting various aspects of their forthcoming new album, Momentum. Momentum, is due in stores August 10. Obsession - the album's first single can be heard HERE. The physical release contains an exclusive bonus cover of Dokken's "Breaking The Chains." Produced by Line Of Fire & Jamie King. Track List: 1. It Takes Time 2. Obsession 3. Give Me All 4. I'll Be The One Tonight 5. I Belong 6. The Fire Never Dies 7. I'm Crying For You 8. In The Stone 9. Undone 10. Ghost In Your Heart 11. Breaking The Chains (CD ONLY – Bonus Track). Episode #1: "It Takes Time" - www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpiSP8SOxOk / www.tribunalrecords.net.   xx THE BIG FOUR ON THE BIG SCREEN: History was made on Tuesday night (22 June) at the Sonisphere Festival in Sofia, Bulgaria as The Big Four heavy metal bands, Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth and Anthrax, rocked out on stage together for the first time! This historic event was captured live in HD and the concert was beamed live into movie theatres around the world. The Big Four: Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, Anthrax was the biggest global rock concert broadcast to cinemas to date. Delayed HD screenings will take place in Australia on July 9 and 10. The Big Four will be seen in over 1,000 cinemas in 35 countries. Despite huge demand, these musical giants have never shared the same stage until now. The legendary June 22 concert from the tour's stop of the Sonisphere Festival in Sofia, Bulgaria aired the same day in 450 theatres in over 140 markets in the US. It was captured Live in HD and beamed into theatres in Europe, Canada and Latin America. Delayed HD screenings will take place in South Africa, New Zealand and in Australia on July 9 & 10. For participating Australian theatre venues, prices, times and how to buy tickets, visit www.thebigfourlive.com where fans can also view the event cinema trailer. BENEDICTUM FINISH THIRD OPUS: US Rockers Benedictum have finished recording their third album. The band have been recording with producer Ryan Greene (Megadeth, Lita Ford, NOFX) at his Area 52 recording studio in Scottsdale, Arizona. The new album will also feature the talents of Whitesnake and Ozzy Osbourne bassist Rudy Sarzo and Dio/Budgie guitarist Craig Goldy. Benedictum singer Veronica Freeman also worked with Foreigner (Ex-Dio and Dokken) bassist Jeff Pilson to produce some acoustic bonus tracks for the album. It's release date will be sometime in the Winter. Jeff says "my affinity for Benedictum was instant. Upon hearing Veronica's voice and Pete Wells' guitar, I knew the seeds were there for a classic monumental rock band." Benedictum have just signed a deal with a major European label (Details to be announced soon). The new album will coincide with an appearance at the Hard Rock Hell IV festival in Prestatyn this December alongside Airbourne, UFO, MSG and Uriah Heep among others. The band is also hoping to announce a series of UK dates around the festival. The new album follows the critically acclaimed Uncreation and Seasons Of Tragedy. Click here to play 3 tracks from the band's last album Seasons Of Tragedy: www.reverbnation.com/tunepak/2618640.

 

 

June 25 Weekend Feature

All releases presented by: www.avenue-of-allies.com / info@avenue-of-allies.com     Shining Line (Avenue10040012)   xx A true AOR highlight of 2010 Pierpaolo "Zorro11" Monti and Amos Monti's project features more than 30 fabulous musicians and vocalists like Robin Beck, Harry Hess, Robbie LaBlanc, Erik Martensson, Sue Willets & Bob Harris, Carsten "Lizard" Schulz, Michael Shotton, Mikael Erlandsson, Michael Bormann and Vinny Burns.Produced by Alessandro Del Vecchio Mixed & mastered by Michael Voss. - "A fairly significant slab of melodic hard rock and AOR that should make it high into people's end of year lists." (George Thatcher - glorydaze.com) - "A pure and classy Melodic Rock album" (AOR Heaven magazine) - "Shining Line deliver 75 minutes of music without one single filler. A must have album that will lift you up to AOR heaven" (Andreas Hoehn – Ready2Rock magazine) - "Shining Line is one of the best tributes to a genre that you will ever hear, and the contributions of all concerned are testimony to a vision that has been fully realized." (Paul Jerome Smith – Fireworks magazine) - "Shining Line is a top-class release with great variation and if your into classy AOR/Melodic Rock then this is album you can't miss. An album I recommend highly. Stunning stuff." (Juha Harjula – Melodic.net) Link: www.myspace.com/shiningline - New album teaser featuring all songs of the CD:     Skill in Veins (Avenue10050013)   xx Hard Rockin' newcomer from Italy breathing new life into the vintage sounds of Badlands, Lynch Mob, Little Caesar and Skid Row.Produced by Alessandro Del Vecchio this stellar band features the talents of guitar player & song writer Andrea "Andream" Lanza, vocalist Gabriele Gozzi (Markonee) and the famed rhythm section of Edge Of Forever & Moonstone Project, Nik Mazzucconi and Francesco Jovino (U.D.O.). - "Andrea Lanza's guitar tone is rough and ready, taking his cue from guys like Paul Gilbert (Mr Big era), Slash, Jake E Lee, Richie Kotzen and Gus G). The other stand out is vocalist Gabriele Gozzi, who really does provide some mean vocal power!" (George Thatcher - glorydaze.com) - "Skill in Veins is a rock solid Hard Rock album with an earthy sound and a real good vocalist" (Martin Stark – Ready2Rock magazine) - "The crystal clear and very powerful sound of Skill in Veins has a lot of the spirit of the 80s and is pretty much in the vein of Guns'N'Roses, Mötley Crüe and Skid Row. Gabriele Gozzi is a powerhouse vocalist !" (Fuxx – heavyhardes.de) - "There are only a few debut albums by Hard Rock bands that have convinced me like the one of Skill in Veins did. They always find the right combination of rocking heaviness and bluesy lightness." ( Jochen G. - hardharderheavy.de) Links: www.skillinveins.com / www.myspace.com/skillinveins. Skill in Veins have completed their first music video for the track "Youth Times" and it's definitely worth checking out:     JOEY SUMMER - Written On The Horizon (Avenue10060014) Impressive Melodic Rock & AOR from Brazil. Feat. Göran Edman, Fredrik Bergh, Michael Müller and Julio Cezar. Incl. songs by Göran Edman, Fredrik Bergh, Michael Bormann and Kee Marcello. - "The substance of the work is pure melodic rock akin to the best of the Eighties." (Craig Hartranft - www.dangerdog.com) - "The AOR highlight of this year" (Joerg Brenzel – sleaze-metal.com) - "Written On The Horizon" offers a great slice of Melodic Hard Rock" (AOR Heaven magazine) - "Joey Summer is a highly talented musician who has delivered an amazing Melodic Rock album. Definitely a Must-Buy CD" (Stefan Thür – rockingboy.de) Links: www.joeysummer.com / www.myspace.com/joeysummer2009.   xx   WHEELS OF FIRE - Hollywood Rocks (Avenue10070015) Keyboard laced ultra catchy AOR like early Danger Danger, Bon Jovi, Winger and Firehouse. Produced by Michele Luppi (Los Angeles, Killing Touch, Ex-Vision Divine) - "Great name, great image, groovy sound. Glam, melodic rock all mixed up in one fun sounding package. Don't be fooled, this record kicks some ass!" (George Thatcher - glorydaze.com) - "Hollywood Rocks is solid melodic rock…worth your interest, positively." (Craig Hartranft - www.dangerdog.com) - "Wheels Of Fire is a 50 minute tribute to the Melodic Rock scene of the 80s. The songs sound like a mixture of Warrant, Giuffria, Danger Danger, Firehouse, Steelheart, Nelson, Winger and Strangeways." (Boris Theobald – Rocktimes.de) - "A powerful piece of Rock music from sunny Italy. Two thumps up for Wheels Of Fire" (Stefan Thür – rockingboy.de) Links: www.wheels-of-fire.com / www.myspace.com/wheelsoffiretheband   xx   STATE COWS - State Cows (Avenue10080016) The triumphant return of the classic Westcoast sound of Pages, Steely Dan and Airplay. Feat. Jay Graydon on guitar. - "State Cows" contains just everything that defines a really good quality westcoast album. Beautiful and melodic songs, very catchy choruses, world-class musicianship, high quality brass arrangements and a production that should make Mr.David Foster / Mr. David Foster and Mr. Jay Graydon mer än villiga att samarbeta med herrar Andersson/Olofsson i framtiden. Jay Graydon more than willing to cooperate with the gentlemen Andersson / Olofsson in the future. Bättre än så här kan musik knappast göras!! Music can hardly be any better !" (Staffan Vässmar - artrock.se) - "I can see that in a few years that State Cows might become a closet classic among West Coast fans, such is its positioning next to the likes of Airplay, Marc Jordan, David Roberts, Nielsen Pearson and Pages." (George Thatcher - glorydaze.com) - "Fans of the airy and mysterious Westcoast sound should look no farther than the contemporary State Cows" (Craig Hartranft - www.dangerdog.com) - "The record outclasses everything that has come in the Westcoast genre the latest years." (aorsweden - planetaor.com) Links: www.statecows.com / www.facebook.com/statecows / www.myspace.com/statecows.   xx   ANGELINE – Confessions (Avenue10090017) Big sounding, crunchy Melodic Rock from Sweden. Massive hooks & harmonies meet mighty riffs à la Harem Scarem, FM and Gun. - "If you think the new Treat album's got a lot of immense choruses, then listen to 'Confessions'…Few bands release an album of this calibre at any point in a multi album career." (Brian McGowan - revelationz,net, album of the month) - "A magical blend of Harem Scarem and FM (UK) is evident on the first half of the album, Angeline then move into a groove/hard rock sound for the second half" (George Thatcher - glorydaze.com) - "Angeline's Confessions is strong, consistent, and thoroughly entertaining platter of melodic rock." (Craig Hartranft - www.dangerdog.com) - "It's a sure album to buy if you're into Melodic Hard Rock. From A to Z this is professional and really strong; the classy production, the massive harmony vocals and the winning melodies." (Ola Granshagen – melodic.net) Links: www.angelinetheband.se / www.myspace.com/angelinetheband.   xx

 

 

Friday, June 25, 2010

KENS DOJO - A SOLO PROJECT FROM GUITAR PLAYER, SONGWRITER AND PRODUCER KEN INGWERSEN: Ken Ingwersen started playing classical guitar at the age of 10, but was soon spelled by the electric guitar and rock music, listening to acts like KISS, Van Halen, Thin Lizzy, Deep Purple and tons of other 70's and 80's rock bands. Spending his early teens playing in a few local bands in Oslo, Norway, the first real band making any fuzz was called Limelight. Releasing a single on Polydor, and doing a tour with TNT, Ken got hungry for doing more music. He was soon hired as a guitar player for Evenrude, a Norwegian singer signed by the infamous Clive Davis at Arista Records in the US. After being involved in Rags, Speed, Street Legal and the Ken Hensley Band, Ken Ingwersen now delivers a solid rock album, and get back to his "roots". This is reflected in the title of the album; "Reincarnation". Instead of just doing a guitar instrumental album, which is something he finds too boring, he wanted to have real songs on the album and great singers. It was time to collect some favours from his friends, and record some amazing songs with killer musicians and top notch production. The album includes names such as; Glenn Hughes (ex-Deep Purple), Ken Hensley (ex-Uriah Heep), Michael Eriksen (Circus Maximus), Nils K. Rue (Pagans Mind), Chesney Hawkes, Tommy La Verdi (ex-21 Guns), Eirikur Hauksson aka Eric Hawk (ex-Artch), Truls Haugen (Circus Maximus), Morty Black (ex-TNT), Ole Devold (Tritonus), Aslak Johnsen (Mindtech), Jon Rydningen (Dream Police) and more. The album is mastered by Björn Engelmann (Rammstein, Europe, Cher). Tracklist: 01.Forever, 02. Keeping The Flame Alive (Nils K. Rue, Pagan's Mind on vocals) 03. I Surrender (vocals Glenn Hughes) 04. Reincarnation (vocals Chesney Hawkes) 05. Momentos A Solas 06. Demon In Diamonds (vocals Tommy La Verdi, 21 Guns) 07. Come Alive 08. El Recreo 09. Set This Angel Free 10. Rain 11. Playback Tape. Soundfiles in advance: Demons in Diamonds / Forever / I Surrender. WebLink: www.kensdojo.com.   xx AOR Heaven presents the digitally remastered re-issue of the much sought after third Casanova album "Heroes" with the addition of the mini album "Sway" plus 3 more bonus tracks on a double CD due July 23. Both albums have been never released outside of Japan The double CD contains new pictures, it's limited to 1000 copies and will be only available through AOR Heaven's mail-order and connected dealers/wholesalers. Track list: "Heroes": 01. Heroes 02. Star 03. Stranded 04. Revenge 05. The Other Side 06. Heaven Knows 07. Carmen 08. If You Wanna Be Loved 09. How Can I Live Without You 10. Examine 11. Lady Luck 12. Black Day 13. No Excuse SWAY 01. Sway 02.I Want You To Want Me 03. Need A Little Loving 04. Renegade 05. Annie 06. All That Matters 07. It's Over Now Bonus tracks: 08. Sylvia's Eyes 09. Shine It All On 10. Children Of The Revolution. WebLink: www.metalheaven.net. LYNCH MOB EMBARKS ON A SUMMER TOUR: HOLLYWOOD, CA (June 25, 2010) – Lynch Mob is getting ready to embark on a summer tour in support of their current release "Smoke and Mirrors" on Frontiers Records. The band line-up for this tour consists of George Lynch (shred master), Oni Logan (vox), Michael Devin (bassologist) and Brian Tichy (time-keeper). After seventeen long years singer Oni Logan and guitar wizard George Lynch found their way back together and again show their amazing abilities in some killer new Hard Rock songs. " I would say this new record "Smoke and Mirrors", is the record we should have put out as a follow up to "Wicked Sensation"...better late than never I guess...", says Lynch presenting the new record. Lynch Mob was formed by George Lynch, one of the few genuine guitar heroes of substance to emerge from the Los Angeles scene, after Dokken split up in 1989. The band's first album" Wicked Sensation" went on to sell over 500,000 units in the US and featured the talents of singer Oni Logan, Anthony Esposito on bass and another former Dokken member Mick Brown on drums. After a tour in support of Queensryche, Logan opted out, with Robert Mason taking his place on the follow up self titled release. However Lynch and Brown eventually returned to Dokken releasing 2 studio albums until he left again in late 1997 putting together a several new incarnations of Lynch Mob and exploring new sounds with different projects. Lynch Mob – Tour Schedule July 18 Zen – Meister Bar El Paso, TX July 20 HOB – GL Clinic Show Houston, TX Clinic July 22 Dos Amigos Odessa, TX July 23 Trees Dallas, TX July 24 Scout Bar San Antonio, TX July 25 Zoo Amphitheater Oklahoma, OK July 28 The Altar Bar Pittsburgh, PA July 29 The Starland Ballroom Sayer, NJ July 30 Jaxx Springfield, VA July 31 The Filmore New York, NY Aug 01 Crazy Donkey Framingdale, NY Aug 02 Eleanor Rigby's Jermyn, PA Aug 03 House of Blues Cleveland, OH Aug 04 Scatz NightClub Middleton, WI Aug 06 Club Vegas Salt Lake City, UT Aug 07 The New Oasis Sparks, NV Aug 08 Tower Theater Fresno, CA Aug 11 Studio Seven Seattle, WA Aug 12 Dante's Portland, OR Aug 13 Last Day Saloon Santa Rosa, CA Aug 14 Sky City Amphitheater Pueblo of Acoma, NM Get back to real Rock with Lynch Mob's new album "Smoke and Mirrors" - For more information visit www.georgelynch.com or www.myspace.com/lynchmobrocks. UNISONIC WARMING UP: After the storming appearance at this year's Sweden Rock Festival – their baptism of fire so to speak – and before it's co-headlining appearance at this year's Masters Of Rock Festival in the Czech Republic, Unisonic releases the first song ever. The new band around Michael Kiske, Mandy Meyer, Dennis Ward and Kosta Zafiriou will release a demo recording of the song "Souls Alive" exclusively on the band's MySpace-page: www.myspace.com/unisonic, Friday, June 25. Already performed live during the 3 warm-up shows and their performance at this year's Sweden Rock, "Souls Alive" is just a little taste of the music to follow… YOSO ON TOUR: Yoso - US Tour dates (more TBA) Aug 11 Keswick Theatre Glenside, PA Aug 12 The State Theatre Falls Church, VA Aug 15 Ramshead Tavern Annapolis, MD Aug 17 B.B. King's Blues Club New York, NY Aug 19 Kent Stage Kent, OH Aug 20 Syndicate Dinner Theatre Newport, Ky Aug 21 Lake Clementia Amph. Rancho Murieta, CA For more information visit www.myspace.com/yosohq, www.frontiers.it or www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: 4 new titles from Avenue Of Allies Music - all out now - Wheels Of Fire, Joey Summer, Angeline and State Cows. Check them out. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated. Online today is the following: Live Video - Magnum - Sheffield - 2nd October 1986 (17 Tracks) Feature Album - Spy Vs Spy - Trash The Planet Live - Heat - London May 23 (Audience Recording) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, June 24, 2010

ESCAPE MUSIC SHIFT NEW JON MULLANE RELEASE: Escape Music announce their latest signing - Jon Mullane: Shift, due for release in Europe on July 23. Musicians: Jon Mullane: All Vocals, Guitars, Bass, Synths; Creighton Doane: Drums (Harem Scarem); Pete Lesperance: Guitars (Harem Scarem); Kathryn Rose: Backing Vocals. Produced By: Creighton Doane. Song List: 1-Make You Move 2- Got It Goin' On 3- Sin City 4- Missing Time 5- You Get What You Get 6- The One That Got Away 7- Change Your Life 8- Go The Distance 9- Here We Go 10- Make You Move (Move Mix). All songs written by Jon Mullane and Creighton Doane except track 8 written by John Mullane and David Rashid. Download: Jon Mullane - Make You Move (.wma file).   Jon Mullane is an artist who pumps up an audience with driving rock tunes that make you want to move and power ballads that move you. His new album Shift – contains the infectious single Sin City, which has been described as "having the balls of Billy Idol's Rebel Yell, the melodic twists of Duran Duran and the in-your-face production of The Bodyrockers." The song, along with several others on the album, belts out a rock synth vibe that would be just as home in the 80s as it is right now. That's the Jon Mullane retro-modern touch. It's energetic rock with catchy hooks and a solid rock groove. The album builds upon the genre-defying diversity Jon has always brought to his music. Singer, songwriter and multi instrumentalist from Halifax, NS Canada, Jon combines melodies with driving rock lines that find their way into sports arenas and events because of their power to inspire. Recorded in Halifax and Toronto with producer, co-writer & Harum Scarem drummer Creighton Doane, Shift features 10 tracks, including a remixed version of Jon's hit single Make You Move. Jon describes their union as " …two 80's boys channeling their inner synth-rock gods…!!" The incredible playing of iconic guitarist Pete Lesperance, also from Harem Scarem is prominently featured throughout the disc. In 2008, Jon's song Make you Move was picked up by NBC TV for their Summer Olympic promos. The tune brought Jon's sound into North America in a big way. It was on the Mediabase/BDS Charts in the Hot AC and Rock formats and received extensive radio play. In 2009, Make You Move was nominated for Single of the Year at the East Coast Music Awards. Released through Universal Canada in 2007, Jon's 'renaissance debut' The Source found success internationally as Jon had previously built a following in Europe and Asia under the moniker Jonathan M. The power pop single, Go The Distance garnered extensive radio airplay in Canada and hit the number one position on the iconic U.S. music industry publication Cashbox on their Indie Rock chart. The album also received a 4 ½ star review from the magazine. Shift is that rarest of albums – one which grabs you full force, whether you're driving down the highway, working out ferociously or just in for experiencing one dynamic album. In the age where single downloads dominate, Jon Mullane's Shift is the exception to the rule – a cohesive album that, according to Mullane, is intended to be a thoroughly energizing and engaging listen. "Shift continues where my last album, The Source, left off – a shift in momentum, a shift in direction, and a shift in energy", declares Mullane. All ten tracks make for one instantly catchy and repeatedly listenable, rollercoaster ride of an album – the kind very few artists make anymore. Jon Mullane's Shift is comfortable in its familiarity while embracing a state-of-the-art cutting edge sound. In a music industry dominated by conformity, get ready to Shift to the next level of pop-rock music. Packaged in an eco-friendly sleeve with additional enhanced audio & video content, Shift is ready to take you on one hell of a great ride. Hold on and get ready to be driven to new heights. The time has arrived for the world to Shift. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com. JIMI JAMISON & JIM PETERIK - EXTRA MOMENTS - PRE-SALE REMINDER: Don't forget - MelodicRockRecords is very proud to announce the release of MRR001: Jimi Jamison & Jim Peterik - Extra Moments for Pre-Sale now. The Track Listing with Audio Previews: Dream Higher / Chiseled In Stone / Cry Of The Wild Heart / Heart Of A Woman / Life #9 / I Wanna Touch You There / Lifeforce / Chiseled In Stone (Demo, Jim Peterik lead vocal) / She's Nothing To Me (Demo, Jim Peterik & Thom Griffin lead vocal) / Lifeforce (Demo, Jim Peterik lead vocal) / Life #9 (Demo, Jim Peterik lead vocal). PRE-ORDER NOW! All pre-orders shipped prior to release date. Price US$15.00 + $5 Airmail shipping worldwide.   Purchase Options Extra Moments $15.00Extra Moments + MRCD5 $30.00Extra Moments + MRCD6 $40.00Extra Moments + MRCD4 $40.00 2527 WEST PUBLISHING NEWS RELEASE: BRANDON KEIRNS RELEASES RECOLLECTIVE MEMORY: VOLUME II: Ten songs and 50 studio hours later, the final notes for Brandon Keirns' 2nd 2527 West release Recollective Memory: Volume II have been tracked, mixed, and mastered. A labor of love, guitar strings, and multi-tracked vocal harmonies, "Recollective" fully realizes the artistic vision Brandon alluded to on "Identity: Vol. I" "This is the album I've wanted to make ever since I built my home studio", Brandon said. "I threw every piece of gear and every ounce of creativity I had at these 10 songs, and I couldn't be happier with them. From the opening palm muted chug and run in "Here + Now" to the Drop-D moodiness & reflection of "Maybe" through the wah-drenched muscle of "Acid Rain", I can honestly say these 35 short, sweet, straight-to-the-punch minutes of music are the highlight of my 23 years of standing behind a six string and in front of a mic. Every subtle nod to my musical heroes (Def Leppard, Alice in Chains, Lynch Mob, VH) walks hand in hand with my own vision of how a melodic hard rock album should sound in the 21st century." "Now that the album is available for purchase on iTunes, the next order of business are auditions and rehearsals to take my two albums out on the road. Recording work is fun, but pales in comparison to the unabashed joy of the collision between band and audience. Grab your helmet and your beer; I'll see you soon somewhere….". Track Listing: 1 – Here + Now 2 - Get You High 3 - Broken Promises Don't Lie 4 - Maybe 5 - Inside Out 6 - Last Grain of Sand 7 - Damned if I… 8 - Without You 9 - Judgment Day 10 - Acid Rain. iTunes Purchase Link: www.tunecore.com/widgets/show/8436. LILLIAN AXE DROPS DERRICK LeFEVRE AND ADDS RONNY MUNROE: Love & War Records and Lillian Axe welcome Ronny Munroe as the new voice of Lillian Axe. As of August 1, 2010, Ronny Munroe, formerly the lead vocalist of Metal Church, will join Lillian Axe as a fulltime member replacing departing vocalist Derrick LeFevre as lead vocalist of Lillian Axe. The members of Lillian Axe wish Derrick LeFevre nothing but the best of luck in his future endeavors. Unfortunately Derrick could not commit to the rigorous touring schedule that Lillian Axe prides itself on to this day. When Ronny Munroe takes the stage, he has the crowd's attention. His unique vocal style sets him apart from other singers because he brings something extraordinary to every song. Ronny is an in-your-face performer, consummate professional, innovative lyricist and songwriter who fuses melody with hard hitting rock in a way that will take your breath away. Lillian Axe founder and guitarist, Steve Blaze says, "We met Ronny in Seattle playing a show together two years ago. My first impression was "damn he's tall!" After watching him perform, I thought to myself how amazing a vocalist and presence he was. I always keep in the back of my mind great talents when I see them, and Ronny was one of those guys. During the 3 days we spent together in New Orleans rehearsing and getting to know each other, I was amazed how well he fit in as a human being as well as a band mate. The true talent is only half the game; the person is the other. Ronny has it all. Having Ronny as a writing partner and performing partner is something I am very much looking forward to!" Bassist Eric Morris agrees, "I am looking forward to what a vocalist like Ronny can bring to the table. I think he will add a whole new element and catapult our music into a brand new fan base as well as satisfy the die-hards." MIKE CAMPESE LAUNCHES NEW ELECTRIC CITY ALBUM: Electric City is the 7th solo release from guitar virtuoso Mike Campese. The 14 song, over 76 minute CD is filled with some of the most blistering guitar work Mike has ever recorded. The CD kicks off with a bang with the tune "Eleventh Degree" featuring some intense melodic shredding and jazzy harmonies. Just when you thought you heard some crazy guitar playing, Campese takes it up another notch with "Shred Machine", which is just pure non stop shredding done very tastefully. This is defiantly Mike Campese's heaviest CD to date, with the down tuned song "Heavy Thing" and the in your face progressive vocal tune "LandShark". Mike Campese really shows off his versatility with the indian inspired tunes like "Cruisin Across the Mojave" and "Camelryde". Like each Mike Campese Cd there is something for everyone, Campese does some pretty intense over the top guitar work, especially on the demonic arpeggio blistering tune "Over The Top", which Paganini fans would love and the face melting tune "Napali Coast". Mike does sing on a few tracks on this disc like on the epic tune "Kauai Blue", which is loaded with lush harmonies. Mike can really shred but he has a strong sense of melody that he is known for which can be heard on his catchy ballad "Closer To The Sun" that has some beautiful haunting melodies. Campese even gets a little funky on the tunes "Butterfingers" and "Punk Ass", featuring some hip sassy melodies. The Mike Campese fans are going to love this CD and it should bring him over the top. To order: mikecampese.com and click Goods. Sound samples - Just go to: mikecampese.com and click Music to check out the sound clips! If you're going to buy any of Mike's CD's for the first time, This is the one to get!   ONLINE TUNE IN FOR SWEDISH MELODIC ROCK: Sweden Rocks Europe TV Roxx special with H.E.A.T, The Poodles and Treat: tvroxx.de/show/jun-2010. Show track list: H.E.A.T - There For You, Interview, Make It To The End. The Poodles - Too Much Of Everything, Interview, Seven Seas, Night of Passion. Treat - Conspiracy, Interview, Skies Of Magnolia, World Of Promises.

 

 

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

RUSH 'MOVING' ON TOUR, RECORDING NEW 'CLOCKWORK': From Billboard.com / "Rush has a good head start on its next album, Clockwork Angels, which is due out in 2011. But the group's three members are hoping that this summer's tour will prime them for a strong finish when they return to the studio. "We've never afforded ourselves the luxury of coming off tour and then going straight into the studio when you're in top playing form," guitarist Alex Lifeson tells Billboard.com. "We usually finish a tour and then we take some time off and we slowly get back into writing and then into the studio, recording. This time we'll go straight back into the studio and continue recording and writing while we're still in top form from the road." Lifeson says Rush is "a little more than halfway done" recording "Clockwork Angels" with producer Nick Raskulinecz, who also helmed 2007`s "Snakes & Arrows." Two of the songs, "Caravan" and "BU2B," have been released online, and four others were recorded during sessions at Blackbird Studios in Nashville. "Certainly these two songs are pretty heavy indications of where the record's going," Lifeson says, "but there are a lot of different tonalities and soundscapes on the material that we've written so far, so I'm interested to see where we go on these next few songs." Lifeson says Rush hopes to finish recording during the fall in time for a release in the spring of 2011, followed by a more extensive world tour. Meanwhile the group is now busy gearing up for the summer shows, which kick off June 29 in Albuquerque, N.M., and will feature performances of the 1980 album "Moving Pictures" in its entirety. "That was the album that took us to the next level," notes Lifeson, who credits drummer Neil Peart with the full-album idea. "After the release of that album we were headlining everywhere and our audiences increased by a large percentage and it gave us that push forward. Plus, 'Camera Eye' has been probably the top song on our request list from fans for several years, so it really gives us an opportunity to include it in the set and to present it with the full album." The tour will also undoubtably give a push behind the award-winning documentary "Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage," which premieres on VH1, VH1 Classic and Palladia at 9 p.m. EST on June 26 and is released on DVD three days later. Lifeson says Rush is "very pleased" with both the film and its early success and predicts that as "it will be interesting to see how broad the appeal is for non-Rush fans. Will it pique the interest of people who just want to go see a documentary that might be interesting rather than being Rush fans and going for that reason? It's an interesting story that a lot of people can relate to, and at the same time it's kind of unique and different." ArticleLink: www.billboard.com/news/rush-moving-on-tour-recording-new-clockwork-1004099560.story. STEVE VAI PRESENTS: WESTERN VACATION: In the early 1980s, Steve Vai had just moved to California and bought a house in rural Sylmar California. At the time, it was a place with more animals than people. Steve's little house out in the wilderness, was a place where wayward musicians can come and call home. One of those musicians living at the house, was Marty Schwartz, Steve's friend from his Berklee School Of Music Days. When Steve broke his whammy bar during a gig in the Berklee recital hall, he asked if anyone had a spare rubber band, that's when a faint voice came from audience "Iv'e got one for you Steve!", that was the first time Steve met Marty. In Steve's backyard, filled with chickens, ducks, and other various farm animals, Steve's first hand built studio, called Stucco Blue, was the birth place of, ''Western Vacation''. This album was created by Marty, and features a handful of Frank Zappa alumni, including keyboardist Tommy Mars, Vocalist Bob Harris, and Steve Vai, who was listed as the ''Reckless Fable'' on the ''Western Vacation'' track. Other musicians that played on this album were, Chris Frazier on drums, and Jac Mihanovic on bass. ''Western Vacation'' takes you on a progressive musical journey with uplifting melodic textures and dynamic musicianship! Bob Harris's voice is as sweet as a red velvet cupcake and the melodies on this record are so delicious. This album has been beautifully re-mastered in the ''Audio Laundry Mastering Lab'' in Steve's Encino studio, from the original 8 track tapes! This deluxe reissue features a wonderful booklet featuring a essay from Steve Vai and legendary writer and publicist Laurel Fishman. Listen to Western Vacation and see if you can be transported to the idyllic 1980's in Sylmar. ''This captures that time and place with those wonderful friends,'' -Steve Vai. Performance Track List: 1. Western Vacation 2. Nocturnal Emissions 3. Fast Notes People 4. Send Us More Light 5. Patty 6. The Velvet Line 7. Delicious 8. Borrowed Time 9. Burning Flame.   BULLETBOYS SUMMER TOUR KICKS OFF ON JUNE 24: Powerful Los Angeles rockers BulletBoys are hitting the road again this summer, embarking on an incredible tour of the United States which takes them everywhere from Nevada to Pennsylvania. While supporting their latest record 10 Cent Billionaire, which features the smash hit "Road to Nowhere," old and new fans alike will be in for a treat, receiving a rare opportunity to experience one of the more durable, versatile bands from the late 1980's. Those who think they still know the BulletBoys are in for a surprise, as these time-tested rockers have evolved into a completely new animal. Originally formed in 1988, the four piece rock powerhouse rocketed to fame with their self titled debut, which quickly reached Gold status with the aid of singles such as "Smooth Up in Ya" and "Hard as a Rock." Touring with iconic rock monsters such as Bon Jovi, Motley Crue, Ozzy Osbourne, and Cinderella, they established themselves as musical warriors, capable of piecing together long, grueling schedules, while still hitting the studio to churn out more hard rock classics. Over time, BulletBoys have grown with the music scene, remaining relevant in contemporary styles, while still utilizing the hypnotic flair which achieved their popularity originally. With veteran, stylish front man Marq Torien leading the way, BulletBoys has cultivated a fresh, inspired sound in 10 Cent Billionaire, containing eleven tracks of fantastic rock jams. Brilliant harmonized vocals, squealing guitar solos, and intelligent lyrics run deep throughout these musical anthems, which redefine the band as a present, impressive presence in today's music world. Kicking off on June 24 at the Cheyenne Saloon in Las Vegas, Nevada, the four piece rock phenomenon begins their 17 date tour throughout the U.S. Cities include Tucson, Austin, San Antonio, Detroit, Dayton, and Oklahoma City, among many others. Expect to experience the BulletBoys as you never have before, with a revitalized sound, and a captivating, energetic show sure to amaze all in attendance. Check out the band's MySpace page for full dates and details, as well as some free songs to amp yourself up for this summer's tour. WebLink: www.myspace.com/officialbulletboys. DRAGONFORCE TO RELEASE FIRST LIVE ALBUM TWILIGHT DEMENTIA ON SEPTEMBER 14: Dragonforce, known for their over-the-top, infinitely fun, wildly entertaining live show, which has slayed the main stages of Ozzfest, Rock Star Energy Drink Mayhem Festival and countless headlining shows the world over, have captured the whole shebang on Twilight Dementia, a double-CD which documents their Ultra Beatdown tour. The tour ran from 2008 through 2009 and includes tracks from all of the band's albums, including the hit "Through the Fire and the Flames," which was featured on Guitar Hero. The two-disc affair will be unleashed on September 14. Twilight Dementia was produced by longstanding DF collaborator Karl Groom along with band guitarists Herman Li and Sam Totman. It features 13 tracks and is an exercise in soaring vocals and advanced guitar pyrotechnics. It was recorded across 19 UK shows, with the very best takes lovingly compiled and mixed by Groom, Totman and Li. "For years, fans have been asking us to record a live album, but honestly, we never really had the time due to our worldwide touring commitments and studio album recording," Li said. "However, due to the overwhelmingly positive feedback from fans on the 'Ultra Beatdown World Tour,' we decided to finally put some real thought into it." Li continued, "The idea was to record every single show from the last leg of the tour, so we could pick the best take of each song without needing to do any overdubs in the studio; keeping the whole thing live, like all the classic live metal albums. These recordings really capture the raw sonic energy of a DragonForce show in fine detail. It is so real that you can hear the noise of the crowd and experience the show as it was that night – you can even hear the guitar pedals being stepped on!" The track listing for the collection is as follows: Disc 1: "Heroes of Our Time" "Operation Ground and Pound" "Reasons to Live" "Fury of the Storm" "Fields of Despair" "Starfire" "Soldiers of the Wasteland" Disc 2: "My Spirit Will Go On" "Where Dragons Rule" "The Last Journey Home" "Valley of the Damned" "Strike of the Ninja" "Through the Fire and Flames". Formed in 1999, DragonForce – a multi-national amalgam of players at the very top of their game – have spent the past decade proving that virtuoso musicianship and strong songwriting values can appeal to rock fans right across the board; it's a journey that has seen the band playing sold-out headline shows around the world, including in markets as far afield as China, Hawaii, New Zealand, Russia & Columbia, forging a telling relationship with the 'Guitar Hero' franchise, and tucking four strong studio albums under their collective belt, with sales currently topping the two million mark worldwide. And now, whilst seeking a replacement for recently departed frontman ZP Theart, the band have delivered a set of recordings that successfully highlight the non-stop energy and entertainment-or-bust ethos of the DragonForce musicians in full live flow. WebLinks: www.dragonforce.com / www.myspace.com/dragonforce. MELODIC BRIEFS: Kiss inks deal with New Mexico lottery: www.brandfreak.com/2010/06/kiss-brand-officially-appears-everywhere-with-lotterytickets-deal.html. Ozzy Osbourne's album Scream is out now and the official video for Let Me Hear You Scream is also now out. Check out the music video here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5JJy8Z4dNM. Brand new Tony Harnell & The Mercury Train video for the track Northern Lights, out July via Frontiers:   R.I.P. MICKEY DANIELS: Chuck Oney of US rockers Oney sent me this message late yesterday: "Just wanted to let you guys know that Oney guitarist Mickey Daniels passed away yesterday morning 6-21-10. Mickey was on both our Retrospect Records albums Good Guys Wear Black & Bust Em Down. He also was the only member to be in the band from day 1 besides myself and also played Rocklahoma 2008, the year of the infamous stage collapses. Mickey was the heart and soul of Oney thru our original run 1987-1992 and after we reformed in 2007. We have been working on a live cd from the reunion shows of 2007 and 2008, plus bonus demos and live recording from the late 80's. Look for that soon on Retrospect Records & thanks for your time." Mickey Daniels 1966-2010 / Retrospect Records Recording Artist.

 

 

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Unruly Child - New Album - October 2010 SCORPIONS' SCHENKER TALKS ABOUT GOODBYE TOUR: Scorpions guitarist Rudolf Schenker checked in with Hardrock Haven to discuss the Get Your Sting And Blackout farewell tour; the recording of and making of the bands final studio effort Sting in the Tail and how they came to that decision; how they maintained global popularity even when grunge took out the majority of 80s bands during the 90s; going out on top; and a whole lot more. Hardrock Haven: Rudolf, thank you for checking in with Hardrock Haven to discuss the farewell tour of the Scorpions. It is an honor to speak with you. The Scorpions will kick off the U.S. Get Your Sting And Blackout farewell tour tomorrow in New Jersey. How bittersweet and surreal is this for you and for the Scorpions to be saying farewell to the fans? Rudolf: I mean one thing is thing is clear. We always took our music live serious. There is no time to joke because the Germans don't have any humor at all. Everything we say and everything we are doing is serious. That is the first law. That is the rule. So in this case, everything I am saying now is serious. In this case, why we made this decision is very easy. As you remember in the 80s, we had a very big peak. We were on top of the wave and everything was working fantastic. So then in the 90s grunge and alternative came in. We had a hard time. We know how it is if you have to fight against the times. So in this case, we know how it is. We were lucky in the 80s. We played in places where Americans and Englishmen did not want to play because there was no money. There were no record companies. The only bands who did the same like us was Bon Jovi. Because the 90s was a time when America and also Europe had the grunge/alternative time. We used this momentum to really play a lot in Asia. We had a lot of success in Asia with 20 times platinum in Thailand, 10 times platinum in Indonesia, and Philippines and stuff like this. Many fans came back again and again and said you know you can do so many different things but can you do it all again on record? Then we tried with Unbreakable. Then it was a good time for the basic fans. So then we went to Los Angeles doing this album with Desmond Child. It was great fun to do an album again in Los Angeles. But somehow this album was more in the kind of concept album. It was in the direction of The Scorpions sound but a little too polished. That was the reason, we said ok we will make another try in my studio in Germany and try to get the two Swedish guys into the game before we say yes to Desmond Child. We had already a talk with the two Swedish producers Mikael Andersson and Martin Hansen. One is a very good guitar player and big name in Sweden. So we got the two Swedish producers here in the studio and I said lets talk to them and ask them what they thought of the album. They were very much into it and wanted to work in our studio. Martin said yeah know on this album I want to go back to the essence of The Scorpions. The Scorpions have great guitarists, great melodies. So we made the decision to do the rest of the stuff in my studio. In this case, it was fantastic work … we did fantastic with them. We were coming closer, and closer to the essence of The Scorpions. We end up having the best of The Scorpions into two songs already. Our manager thought we were very much into it. He noticed too that this album was something special. He said, 'How do you want to beat this? This could be a great album to finish your career.' At first we thought he was joking. Then we started counting. Klaus and I are 62 now. When we go three years on the road then we are 65. Then if we break and do another album and going on the road again we would have been 67 or 68. The rocking like a hurricane jumping around, that sounds very unrealistic. In this case, we are coming more and more closer to the idea and said yes to the farewell tour. The time is very much like the 80s. In this case, the momentum of the 80s is back, and we have album, which really is the essence of The Scorpions in the 80s. We are putting this together and announcing our last tour and album. It is the right decision, as we know it in Europe. Because in Europe we have already our album including Germany is already gold. We have entered into the Top Ten. Our tour in Germany, France, and Moscow sold out. We got the Walk Of Fame. We got the Music World Award in Monte Carlo. Everything worked fantastic. We can end our career with a happy ending. We don't want to play four years later and crawling onstage and people going oh why are they doing this? Why didn't this stop before? In this case, I think we did everything so far so good. When you think about it our first album came out in 1972 and we will be finished in 2012. We have forty years of an outstanding career coming from Germany. It is a happy end. It is great. To read the interview in its entirety, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/rudolf-schenker. MELODIC BRIEFS: Lizzy Borden will be interviewed on this week's episode of Noize In The Attic with Greg and Andre. (Where Your Past Comes Back To Haunt You) Wednesday 1-3 EST on www.stickman-radio.com and FRIDAY 2-4PM and 10PM-12 EST on WNHU 88.7 FM New Haven, CT. www.noizeintheattic.com. Jetboy live at M3: www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsuJeQWJWkQ. Denmark-based hard rockers Royal Hunt have posted video footage (see below) from the recording sessions for their last album, X, which was released June 07, 2010 by Scarlet Records (Europe) and Marquee/Avalon (Japan, SE Asia) earlier this year. www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ttNmcwh3qA. Skull Daze has posted two new songs, "Heartbreak City" and "Dirty Girl", on the band's MySpace page (www.myspace.com/skulldazeband). The tracks are included in the group's debut album, Skull Daze, released on May 14 in via Street Symphonies Records. Aussie band Powerage to be on USA rock stage at Rock Dakota festival: www.rockdakota.com/pdfs/tmfr%20slaughter.pdf. Wolfsbane are starting the process of putting together a new album. They state: "2011 will be a really exciting year - there will be an album and tour and some select festival dates! So stay tuned for more info and keep on Howling!!" WebLink: www.facebook.com/pages/Wolfsbane. Cheap Trick release commercial for Sgt Pepper in Vegas: www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBS9MdXCDYg. STAN BUSH SONG FEATURED IN "TRANSFORMERS: THE WAR FOR CYBERTRON" GAME: "Til All Are One (Transformers Theme)" from the Stan Bush album "In This Life" is featured in the new Activision game "Transformers: The War For Cybertron" being released June 22nd. Emmy award-winning artist Stan Bush is best known for his song "The Touch" featured in "Transformers: The Movie." The song was voted the #1 Geek Anthem of All Time in 2010. An anthem for Transformers fans around the world, "The Touch" was released on Guitar Hero in 2009, and is on Stan's latest album "In This Life" ('Album of the Year' for 2007). "The Touch" was also featured in the movie "Boogie Nights," on Chuck (NBC), American Dad (Fox), and in two Hasbro Transformers toys. "Til All Are One (Transformers Theme)" and "The Touch" are both available on the Stan Bush "In This Life" album at stanbush.com. OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE FROM DAVID "ROCK" FEINSTEIN: "To whom it may concern: I just found out that ( Magic Circle Music ) stated on their site that I was contributing a song to their proposed tribute album to DIO. It also states that I specifically wrote this song for Ronnie. This is totally UNTRUE! The song is called "Far Beyond", and was a cut on the "Feinstein", "Third Wish" album, released by Magic Circle Music, (SPV) in 2004. The song was co written by myself and John West eight years ago. I am NOT a part of this Magic Circle tribute album, and will ONLY be a part of any tribute to Ronnie that is sanctioned by "Niji Entertainment Group", and Wendy Dio..." - David "Rock" Feinstein. Read more: blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=325466964&blogId=535916305#ixzz0rWyYlOXw. MELODIC REVOLUTION RECORDS FOR OIL RELIEF: Melodic Revolution Records to release "Musicians for Oil Relief" featuring music by Sahara Rain, Jim Crean, Oracle, Sonic Rebellion, David Kelly, Maggie Seligman and Steve Shannon. We are still accepting song submissions for this release anyone interested in contributing a track can contact us at melodicrevolution.com for further details. We would like to announce the signing of The Rescue. Their first release "Tragedies & Catastrophes" is finished and is due out this summer. The Rescue are John Naro, James Naro, Yianni Foulidis and Dan Finter. Hailing from New York, Toronto, and London, England, their refreshing style has set them apart. Vibrant melodies and three part harmonies formulate the unique and catchy sound that defines The Rescue. Whether it's a daring five minute drum solo or the intuitive breaks in "Crazy World" and "Stay", The Rescue are something new for people craving a new take on mainstream rock. Having become a fixture in Toronto hot-spots and beginning to expand their touring time and locations, the Rescue are a group that stands apart from the disposability of current New Rock, with impeccable playing, a new mix of style, and terrific stage presence. D Drive to play Free concert Nola's in Rochester New York this weekend June 27th from 5PM to 9PM promoting their new release 3D this is an all ages event so bring your family and friends. More information can be found on this event and other dates at the bands official website. www.ddrive.com.

 

 

Monday, June 21, 2010

JIMI JAMISON & JIM PETERIK - EXTRA MOMENTS - PRE-SALE NOW!: MelodicRockRecords is very proud to announce the release of MRR001: Jimi Jamison & Jim Peterik - Extra Moments for Pre-Sale now. Jimi Jamison teamed up with his former Survivor bandmate Jim Peterik in 2007 to record a new solo album. That album was released via Frontiers Records in 2008 to high critical acclaim and fan praise. The guys spent a year writing material for Crossroads Moment and even with 15 tracks included, there were several more that didn't make the cut. Jimi Jamison appears with the very generous approval of Frontiers Records. Jimi and Jim both loved the idea I had of compiling the various tracks that didn't make the original album for a stand alone release. Adding to the value of this release is some additional alternative takes and recording demos to round out a stunning 11 track release, showcasing the talent and chemistry of these much loved duo. The complete picture of Crossroads Moment is now available with the release of Extra Moments on July 23. Pre-Orders for this limited edition release are available now by clicking on the Paypal logo below. The Track Listing with Audio Previews: Dream Higher / Chiseled In Stone / Cry Of The Wild Heart / Heart Of A Woman / Life #9 / I Wanna Touch You There / Lifeforce / Chiseled In Stone (Demo, Jim Peterik lead vocal) / She's Nothing To Me (Demo, Jim Peterik & Thom Griffin lead vocal) / Lifeforce (Demo, Jim Peterik lead vocal) / Life #9 (Demo, Jim Peterik lead vocal). PRE-ORDER NOW! All pre-orders shipped prior to release date. Price US$15.00 + $5 Airmail shipping worldwide.   Purchase Options Extra Moments $15.00Extra Moments + MRCD5 $30.00Extra Moments + MRCD6 $40.00Extra Moments + MRCD4 $40.00 EX-HAREM SCAREM SINGER HARRY HESS RETURNS WITH FIRST SIGNAL: Frontiers Records will release on August 27 in Europe and September 14 in the USA the new album from First Signal, a new exciting Melodic Rock studio project presenting the alliance between two well known faces in the scene: Canadian singer Harry Hess (ex-Harem Scarem) and producer/bassist Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69, Khymera etc.). The concept behind this recording is to bring back the classic Harem Scarem sound which after the band decision to split is very much missed by many fans. Records such as "Mood Swings" and "Weight of the World" are regarded as true masterpiece albums and they were the inspiration behind the First Signal songs which of course are also open to some new twists and interpretations. "The record is very reminiscent of the songs I grew up listening to and fit my vocal style", says Harry "It definitely reminds me of the songs we were writing very early on in Harem Scarem. I haven't been involved with anything even close to this style musically since Harem Scarem, so it was a lot of fun for me and if the fans really like it I'm sure there'll be a future First Signal!" Harem Scarem have displayed throughout their 12 official studio albums a vast array of styles, from AOR, to Arena Hard Rock and Power Pop in the "Rubber" years. Still the fans have always asked the band to go back to a guitar riffs oriented sound which melted the influences from the Melodic Metal of the 80's with more contemporary sounds. A reat team of songwriters, including brothers Tom and James Martin (Khymera, Sunstorm, House of Lords), Erik Martensson (W.E.T., Eclipse), Ronny Milianowicz (Saint Deamon), Robert Sall (W.E.T., Work of Art) and Mark Baker (Signal, House of Lords) among others, had the task to recreate that magic sound, which is now back in all its glory thanks to a monster vocal performance from Harry and a crisp production and arrangement work from Dennis Ward. Other musicians on the album include Chris Schmidt on drums, Michael Klein on guitars and Eric Ragno on keyboards and the necessary background vocals contribution from the other ex-Harem Scarem member Darren Smith. "First Signal" final tracklisting includes the following tracks: This City; When You Believe; Part of Me; Crazy; Goodbye To The Old Times; First Signal; Feels Like Love; Into the Night: When November Falls; Yesterday Rain; Naked Desire. The songs "This City" and "Yesterday Rain" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web Radio from June 21st. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. WebLinks: www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx FERGIE FREDERIKSEN BATTLING CANCER: Although well known among friends for some time - it has finally been revealed that vocalist Fergie Frederiksen (Toto, Trillion, LeRoux) is fighting inoperable life threatening cancer. His friends have been rallying around him for support and only recently did Fergie overcome a big hurdle to continue his fight. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Fergie and his family. This news was posted at Fergie's website earlier today: "Friends Forever for Fergie Frederiksen" benefit concert being held Sunday July 18th at Bayview Event Center on Lake Minnetonka, MN. Recently, Fergie, a father of two and friend of many, was diagnosed with inoperable life threatening cancer. Fergie, the former lead singer of the group Toto will be joined by his dear friends, Alex Ligertwood, former lead singer of Santana and Jimi Jamison, former lead voice of Survivor with the band Headliner for a concert with ALL PROCEEDS going to the Fergie Frederiksen Family Fund. Sunday July 18th, 2010 Bayview Event Center / Doors open at 6 pm for cocktails, silent auction and meet/greet. Concert begins at 7 pm with Frederiksen, Ligertwood and Jamison with the group Headliner playing all of the 80's classics. Reserved Tables of 10 are available for $250 (8)-VIP $350 (4) contact Mike at 612-386-0082 with first come-first served-best available. General Admission tickets are available for $20 and are available on Ebay: cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270595918605#ht_1553wt_1040. BON JOVI PART WITH LONG TIME MANAGER: NY Post reports: "Parting is such sweet sorrow for Jon Bon Jovi and his longtime manager, Jack Rovner, who was fired this week after a number of snafus. While no one will say anything unkind on the record, Rovner was seen around town crying in his beer because Jon told him, "I'm going in a different direction." Rovner and his Vector Management were blamed for problems with the $1,000 VIP concert tickets sold in larger markets on the band's tour for their latest album, "The Circle." The VIP tickets were supposed to include a meet-and-greet with Bon Jovi and even a photo with the rock icon. But fans have been complaining they were never granted the promised access. Rovner was also responsible for Jon doing an "artist in residence" stint at NBC, which blocked the band from promoting the album on other networks, and for the Showtime documentary "When We Were Beautiful," in which "Jon makes the rest of the band admit they are paid employees and owe everything to him," as one insider put it. "Rovner recently sent his lawyer, Michael Guido, to ask Jon for a raise and was told he was lucky to have a job," said our source. Bon Jovi e-mailed us: "Though I personally live for and love Page Six, I'm sorry to say that the tidbit you have received regarding the split between Vector Management and Bon Jovi is inaccurate. The boring truth is we decided to go in different directions and thanked both Jack and his team for a great job. He is and will remain a close friend and someone who I will be very grateful to for his dedication." A spokeswoman for Vector Management said: "Jack and everyone at Vector are very proud of the work they did [with Bon Jovi] together over the last five years, including their first Grammy awards, first No. 1 chart debuts globally, and even a No. 1 on the country charts. Vector continues to represent the nation's top-selling acts, including Kings of Leon, Kid Rock, Dierks Bentley and many others." Read more: www.nypost.com/p/pagesix. Bon Jovi will bring The Circle Tour to Australia this summer. Dates are: December 8, Perth, Subiaco December 11, Melbourne, Etihad Stadium December 14, Brisbane, Suncorp Stadium December 17, Sydney, Sydney Football Stadium EUROPE & FOREIGNER IN LONDON: Europe has been confirmed to play at this year's iTunes Festival at the London Roundhouse on July 25th with Foreigner. The band will perform music from their current critically acclaimed album "Last Look At Eden", plus all their classics including the timeless anthem "The Final Countdown." "We'll be well up for playing at the famous Roundhouse in Camden," says Europe's lead singer Joey Tempest. "Recording the event live makes it even more exciting." More than 60 acts will perform throughout July's 31 nights, including Ozzy Osbourne, Faithless, Scouting For Girls, Foals, Paloma Faith, Ellie Goulding, Phoenix, The Courteeners, Underworld, The XX, Laura Marling, The Drums, Wild Beasts, Scissor Sisters, Goldfrapp, Kate Nash, Pixie Lott and Tony Bennett. Tickets are free for competition winners. For further information on how to apply for tickets, please visit - www.itunesfestival.co.uk. WHITESNAKE ALTER LINE-UP FOR 2011: Whitesnake have officially announced that bassist Uriah Duffy & drummer Chris Frazier are going their separate ways from the band after a fun filled & successful journey together. Whitesnake wish Uriah & Chris every success in pursuing their individual musical careers & express their sincere gratitude for the exceptional contribution they both made to the legacy of the band. Whitesnake are proud to welcome drummer/vocalist extraordinaire, Brian Tichy (www.briantichy.com) Whitesnake are currently in the studio writing & recording the follow up to their award winning 'Good To Be Bad' album, which is expected to be released throughout the world on the Frontiers label in Spring 2011 to coincide with their return to touring. At this time Whitesnake are still exploring their options for the position of new Bass Player/Singer... WebLinks: www.whitesnake.com / www.frontiers.it. STEVE VAI UNLOCKS THE VAULT AND LAUNCHES VaiTunes SERIES: Los Angeles, CA (June 18, 2010) - It's not uncommon for a musician to record more work than they release. In Steve Vai's case, the Grammy® award-winning guitarist has a digital ocean of snippets in various degrees of completion. Some are leftovers from assorted sessions, projects that were never completed, soundcheck jams, or songs that were specific to a particular venture. "There are enough lonely, unreleased notes in my world to fill an infinity shelf," says Vai. In between composing new scores for his upcoming performance with the North Netherlands Symphony Orchestra, Vai has transformed these snippets into full, lush songs and these rarities are being released as a series of single digital downloads called VaiTunes. Each release comes with a PDF booklet containing detailed notes about the creation of the song, the story behind the recording, and gear involved. The latest release from the series, "The Moon and I" evolved from a soundcheck jam in Athens, Greece in the spring of 2000. The PDF liner notes allow the listener to follow Vai as he birthed the chord changes in Greece and subsequently watered and fertilized the song ten years later half way around the world in his Encino studio. Equally fascinating is the story of the guitar used to finish "The Moon and I." Under unique circumstances, Vai recently purchased an original Desert Yellow Ibanez JEM 777DY guitar, a guitar he designed in 1987, from a local pawnshop and named the guitar "Moon." Vai plans to offer one track every month or so, each one representing a unique moment in his personal musical history. The releases can be purchased via iTunes and other digital music providers worldwide through www.vai.com/vaitunes. Visit www.vai.com and www.vai.com/vaitunes.

 

 

Friday, June 18, 2010

EXTRA MOMENTS PREVIEW: Preview time! I'm very pleased to present the first taste of tracks from the MelodicRockRecords release Jimi Jamison & Jim Peterik - Extra Moments. Pre-Orders available from Monday when the cover art will also be revealed. Download 90 second samples of the following tracks: Dream Higher / Chiseled In Stone / Heart Of A Woman / Life #9.   MR T-SHIRT SALE - LIMITED NUMBERS: ONCE SOLD OUT - THEY ARE GONE FOR GOOD! NO REPRINTS ON THESE DESIGNS. LIMITED NUMBERS AVAILABLE! IF ITEM/SIZE SOLD OUT - YOU WILL BE RE-DIRECTED TO THIS PAGE TO START OVER. ALL PRICES INCLUDE SHIPPING - AIR MAIL WORLDWIDE. ---- GO TO T-SHIRT SALE PAGE NOW   xx LION MUSIC ARTIST NEWS AND UPDATES: Lion Music are delighted to announce the signing of progressive metallers Anthriel. Hailing from Finland. Anthriel's music can be described as a progressive metal band with straight metal and neo-classical influences. Formed in 2004 by Timo Niemisto (guitars), Antti Hakulinen (keyboards) and Jari Kuokkanen (drums) and Klaus Wirzenius (bass), it wasn't until vocalist Simo Silvan joined in 2008 that the band really found their true direction. With a style that is sure to appeal to fans of the likes of Symphony X, Adagio and Yngwie Malmsteen the bands debut album "The Pathway" is an absolute monster offering, possessing an exceptionally high standard of songwriting from start to finish with first class performances from all musicians, the final icing comes in the guise of an ultra powerful production which puts many of the genres leaders to shame. "Anthriel - The Pathway" is set for release on October 15th 2010. More information on the album to follow soon. In the meantime check out the band at: www.myspace.com/anthrielmusic where 2 samples can be heard from the debut album.   To celebrate the release of their debut album "The Grand Design" which is already picking up rave reviews, Dutch progressive metal band Day Six will be appearing in the studio on one of Europe's leading progressive metal shows to discuss and play songs from the new album. You can catch the band on the following date/time. Progressive X Grooves radio - Sunday 20.06.2010 from 8PM - 10PM (Amsterdam time): Internet Radio: www.rosafm.nl / Chatroom: www.groovyfreakz.com/progressivexgrooves.html. Full information inc. streaming audio of Day Six - The Grand Design can be found at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/granddesign.htm. Silence doesn't mean inactivity: Titta Tani is the new singer of Italian progressive metallers Ashent. The band report: After a short but intense period of transition, the new Ashent line-up is finally completed. Titta Tani (Claudio Simonetti - Daemonia, Goblin, ex DGM and ex Necrophagia) officially joins the band, replacing the bands dear friend Steve Braun. After 5 years spent together, we friendly decided to follow different musical adventures, hoping to continue to improve ourselves as men, musicians and song-writers, with honesty and genuine passion. We wish Steve all the best, in order to reach new goals with his new band. Now, we are fully focused on the next gigs and we're continuing the composition of our 3rd album that, with reasonable certainty, will be recorded during the next fall-winter period. Steve's statement: "Today is a very bittersweet day for me. My Ashent family and I have regretfully decided to part ways. Due to the economic problems in the world it was getting increasing harder to get over to Italy. After quite a few discussions we decided that the only way for Ashent to move forward is for them to look for a new singer. My wife Tara and I love our Ashent family and are sad that this period has to come to an end but we love Ashent too much to let it suffer because I couldn't be a part as much as was needed. With this being said I couldn't be happier that Titta has joined the Ashent family. He is an awesome singer as well as a great guy. We met last May when we did a few shows together and instantly I considered him a true friend. Thank you all for the memories and most of all your love and friendship. God Bless!!!!" Titta's personal statement: "Ashent welcome me as a family receives a relative who has been far away for a long time: with friendship and affection. And it's FANTASTIC. To replace such an impressive singer as Steve is a challange that cannot be undervalued, but I will give the best of myself in order to find the way into the fans' hearts of this amazing band!" So guys, see you at the next gigs, and stay tuned checking the official pages: www.ashent.net / www.myspace.com/ashentband.   All recordings and mixing are now complete for the forthcoming solo album from one of metal leading keyboard maestros - Mistheria. The keyboard wizard has checked in with the following guest updates. Mark Boals (Royal Hunt, Ring of Fire, Y. Malmsteen) has completed his recordings on the song "Eye of the Storm - Metal Opera 82". Of course, the song sounds nothing short of awesome! With a mix between elegant melody and metal power, Mark's vocals made the song totally captivating! After long years trying to make real our collaboration, I'm really proud to feature Mark, one of the greatest metal singers, on my new album! Mark comments, "This song brought back fond memories of the roots of Neo-Classic Metal. I had a blast recording it, and working with Mistheria!" Rob Rock has posted the following statement on his involvement in the album. "Recording for Mistheria was a pleasure for me. Lies and Deception is a great song we wrote together and the song is just full of monster musicians exploding all over the place. A very interesting song to be a part of. The song is also very energizing and my vocal performance is high octane, somewhat like my Wicked Maiden (Impellitteri) and Slayer of Souls (Rob Rock) vibe in a way. A very "live" vocal take, with lots of "on the spot" ad-libbing, which added a very emotional and natural performance attitude to the song. I really like it!" - RR Italian Bass player Alberto Rigoni (Twinspirits / solo) completes the "Dragon Fire" album line-up. Thanks to a great mixture of perfect performance and powerful rich sound, Alberto did an excellent job recording whole album with his fantastic 6-strings Elrick Bass. The album's personel in full is: Vocals - John West, Mark Boals, Rob Rock, Titta Tani, Lance King. Guitars - George Bellas, Roger Staffelbach, Emir Hot, Neil Zaza Bass - Dino Fiorenza, Alberto Rigoni Drums - John Macaluso. Lion Music can now confirm the track listing is as follows: 01. Dragon Fire. 02. Lies and Deception. 03. Killing the pain. 04. Two of us. 05. Metal Opera (part 1): A.D. 1982. 06. Metal Opera (part 2): Eye of the storm. 07. Now it's never. 08. Fire and Flames. 09. The Prelude of my life. 10. Chopin Fantasy. 11. The power of one. 12. The Beast. 13. A beautiful dream. Mistheria - Dragon's Fire will see release later in 2010. New Releases Out Today: Mastercastle - Last Desire - www.lionmusic.com/cd/lastdesire.htm // Day Six - The Grand Design - www.lionmusic.com/cd/granddesign.htm. MICHAEL KISKE TALKS UNISONIC AND METAL: On Saturday, June 5, former Helloween-singer Michael Kiske returned to the live stage for the first time in 17 years with his new band Unisonic ­ also featuring Dennis Ward (bass) and Kosta Zafiriou (drums) of Germany's Pink Cream 69 and Swiss guitarist Mandy Meyer (who has previously played with Asia, Gotthard and Krokus) ­ for a headlining performance at Live Music Hall in Mörlenbach, Germany. Several more shows followed, including an appearance at this year's Sweden Rock Festival in Sölvesborg, Sweden. Still coming up is the band's appearance at this year's Masters Of Rock Festival in Vizovice, Czech Republic on July 18. Here are Michael's first impressions: "Hi Folks! Having done my first live shows after almost 17 years I'd like to say that I was really thrilled about still having many friends out there after such a long time. Some people even came from Russia just for our freaking warm up shows, another guy came from Turkey! That's unbelievable. I am deeply honoured and moved by this and don't take any of it for granted. My voice was not half way where I want it to be in terms of condition for live situations, this always needs some time, especially after so many years, but on most songs I did well and the audience was great. It was very important for me to do this and to have new face to face contact with you people again after isolating myself for a long time. In Sweden it was extremely cool to see how welcome Unisonic was and how many autographs we had to give afterwards. And it was not only Keeper or Place Vendome CDs I had to sign; every second CD seemed to be one of my solo CDs. I didn't expect that. – I have been quite harsh on the metal-scene over some time and was pretty pissed about it, because I can't deal with certain things in it, and that might have made me be a bit unfair occasionally, but that wasn't for very long. And meeting many of you fans now again has helped me to adjust even more now. I don't hate all metal, I just hate morally wrong ideologies which are circulating within the metal-scene and I don't accept any sort of art-slavery. But I still like rock music, yes, even some of my favourite metal-records of my youth, because most of them are simply great rock records. In many ways the music wasn't really the problem. My problem was, is and will always be the satanic sickness that is so common in the scene. I have NO understanding for inhumanity and heartlessness glorifying people and fascistic mentalities. I believe in good-hearted humans, love and understanding, and that free and honest music is the only law for a healthy and true music-culture. What I have criticized about the metal-scene was and is very just, but to each its own of course. I will always speak my mind. My spiritual, moral and artistic convictions haven't changed a bit, but I am a lot more relaxed now and if I went too far sometimes in the past, I am sorry, I don't want to be unfair at all. Not all metal fans are Ignorants or Satanists, I never really thought that anyway. I have actually met only cool, good-hearted and intelligent metal and rock-fans on this very short "Tour". Some even seem to understand my way of thinking, when we talked. They were much more open minded and friendly than I thought, and if that would be representative for the majority, I'd be very happy. I wanted to get these words out to you guys while all is still fresh. - Love and Peace! See you sometime! Michael Kiske." RIK EMMETT IN DALLAS: Sunday, June 27, 2010 Up Close and Personal - Rik Emmett of Triumph - Solo Acoustic Poor David's Pub, 1313 South Lamar Street, Dallas, TX 75215 (214) 565-1295 Doors at 1:00 pm Show starts at 2:00 pm www.poordavidspub.com. General admission tickets are $35 each in advance / $40 at the door. Age limit is 18 years or older unless accompanied by parent or guardian. LORD '100 REASONS' VIDEO RELEASED: Australian melodic rockers Lord have released a video clip for the song "100 Reasons" which was featured on their most recent album Set In Stone". Commented Lord mainmain LT, "We had a lot of fun doing this clip, throwing food around the house, trying not to get busted by mall security and doing possibly some of the most ridiculous cheesy stage moves you'll ever see! Thankfully no one needed to wear the little gold hot pants this time, I still have nightmares about that! This is just one of a few really cool things we have on the boil this year, so keep an eye on our site." This video clip follows the release of Lord's video for their cover of Kylie Minogue's "On A Night Like This" which raked up over 20,000 views in under a week. Lord will return to Japan in October for a run of shows with Doro and Jaded Heart, ahead of more Australian touring in the last part of the year. Born from the ashes of Dungeon, one of Australia's longest running metal bands, Lord has gone on to tour nationally and internationally with bands such as Queensryche, Nevermore, Saxon, Nightwish, Gamma Ray and more. Their last album "Set In Stone" featured guest performances by Pete Lesperance (Harem Scarem), Craig Goldy (DIO), Felipe Andreoli (Angra) and a host of other well known artists from around the world. More information: www.lord.net.au / Video clip link for "100 Reasons": www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfqd-isX9Oo / Video clip link for "On A Night Like This": www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1i3cBS2kx8. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following: Feature Live - UFO - Knebworth UK - 1985 Feature Album - Brian McDonald Group - Desperate Business Special Feature - The Very Best Of Jim Steinman (2CD MR Compilation)(Featuring tracks from Meatloaf, Bonnie Tyler, Air Supply, Original Sin and more...) Last week Video for Heart Live In Portland 1982 was also added. MR-X Membership Details

 

 

Thursday, June 17, 2010

ANBERLIN'S DARK IS THE WAY, LIGHT IS A PLACE SET FOR SEPTEMBER 21: (New York, NY - June 16, 2010) / Universal Republic rockers Anberlin will release their much-buzzed about fifth studio album, Dark Is The Way, Light is a Place,on September 21st. The band recorded it at Nashville's renowned Blackbird Studio with Brendan O'Brien (Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen, Rage Against the Machine), who won the GRAMMY® award for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical earlier this year. "Impossible" - the driving lead single that soars with an exhilarating pop Foo Fighters vibe as it captures love's tug of war - will go to radio in mid-July. "We Owe This To Ourselves," another track from Dark Is The Way, Light is a Place, will be the main song used on ESPN's X-Games this summer. The forthcoming record follows Anberlin's New Surrender, which was the band's second album to debut in the Top 20 of The Billboard 200. "Feel Good Drag," New Surrender's first single, hit No. 1 on the Modern Rock charts and now holds the record as the longest-charting single in Modern Rock history. Named 2009's "Rock Song of the Year" by FMQB, it will be a featured song on the in-store version of "Guitar Hero 6," due out this September. Anberlin's cover of New Order's "True Faith" appeared on the subsequently released deluxe version of New Surrender and was tapped for the season finale of The CW's "The Vampire Diaries." Anberlin, which formed in Winter Haven, FL in 2002, has sold over 700,000 albums and toured the world, sharing stages with American Rejects, My Chemical Romance, Taking Back Sunday, Paramore and many others. Dark Is The Way, Light is a Place - which takes its title from a line in Dylan Thomas' "Poem On His Birthday" - examines the battle implicit in life and in love. "Love is a friction, a chemistry," says Anberlin's front man, Stephen Christian. "We need to fight it out in a good way, not with threats of leaving, but to, in love, find an understanding." If such an understanding isn't reached, the consequences can be shattering, as detailed in the hypnotic "The Art of War," which veers from slow burn to full sonic assault and the heart wrenching "Take Me As You Found Me." The cathartic "To The Wolves" tackles betrayal head-on while in the gentle, acoustic "Down," the protagonist puts the blame squarely on himself ("feel like a shell of yesteryear gone by/bad decisions like ghosts that just won't die"). The way may be dark, but a powerful vision of light permeates the album. The anthemic "We Owe This To Ourselves" is a resounding call to action: "we owe this to ourselves/to fight, to lead/we owe this to ourselves/we just can't let this go." This deeply rooted conviction speaks not only to Anberlin's view of romantic love, but also to the band's belief that we're accountable for our relationship with the world at large. To that end, Anberlin has been involved in numerous humanitarian efforts. They've spent time in Africa, working with a local charity to meet the needs of a small community, and traveled to Calcutta, India with Faceless International, where they helped to raise awareness about the dangers of human trafficking. Co-founded by Stephen Christian (lead singer), Faceless International (www.facelessinternational.com)aims to defend the plight of exploited people worldwide who have gone faceless and unknown for far too long. The organization raises awareness about social issues happening throughout the global community, providing first hand experience and education through trips around the world and solution-based opportunities through regional resources. Anberlin is: Stephen Christian: Vocals; Joseph Milligan: Lead guitar; Devon Rexroat: Bass; Christian McAlhaney: Rhythm guitar; Nathan Young: Drums. The track listing for Dark Is The Way, Light is a Place is as follows: 1. We Owe This To Ourselves 2. Impossible 3. Take Me As You Found Me 4. Closer 5. You Belong To Me 6. Pray Tell 7. The Art Of War 8. To The Wolves 9. Down 10. Depraved. For more information please visit: www.anberlin.com / www.myspace.com/anberlin.   FREE SHIPPING OFFER FROM NEH RECORDS: NEH Records announces FREE SHIPPING for all shipments in the USA from June 16 – June 30. Applies to all new orders placed and existing orders that ship during this time period (includes preorders and backorders).   BACH GETS REBELLIOUS ON SPONGBOB: Burbank, Calif., June 14, 2010 – Nickelodeon, the number-one kids' brand and largest producer of television animation in the world, wraps up Independence Day weekend with the premiere of a new SpongeBob SquarePants special, "The Clash of Triton," on Monday, July 5, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT. The half-hour special features celebrity guest stars Victoria Beckham as Queen Amphitrite; John O'Hurley as her husband, King Neptune; and Sebastian Bach (Skid Row) as their rebellious son, Triton. Following the special, a week of all-new SpongeBob episodes will premiere Tuesday, July 6, through Friday, July 9, at 8:00 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon. Link: www.nickpress-spongebob-clash-of-triton.com/index.html. BROKEN TEETH - JASON MCMASTER ON HARD ROCK HIDEOUT RADIO TONIGHT: Jason McMaster joins DJ Brian Basher to talk about his great new CD, Viva La Rock Fantastico from Broken Teeth, and a whole lot more. Tonight's show will also feature a brand new song "Back In The Sun" from Automan.CA, and three songs from the Hard Rock Hideout Pick of the Week, SNEW's We Do What We Want. Hard Rock Hideout Radio is a weekly radio program at the 100,000 watt KACV FM 90 in Amarillo, TX. The show is broadcast live every Wednesday night from 9 P.M. - 12 A.M. CST and can be listened to online at www.kacvfm.org. EDEN'S CURSE MERCH OFFER: To mark Eden's Curse debut appearance in the USA at MelodicRockFest 2 and to say a "massive thank you" to all the fans who attended the show in support of The Curse and were sadly unable to purchase merchandise we have put up for sale several exclusive, never before seen, Curse merchandise - thanks to our friends Ryan and Sara Northrop at Metal Mayhem. For a full calendar month only these items will be available at special knock down rates. T-Shirts, CDs and band related CDs also. Click hear to grab your bargains now: www.edenscurse.com/edensstore/index.php?act=viewCat&catId=saleItems. MELODICROCK T-SHIRT SALE: MelodicRockFest 2 and general MelodicRock.com T-Shirts will be on sale right here - from tomorrow! Shirts are the remaining stock from the MRF2 show and once sold out will NOT be re-printed. Sizes and styles vary - will display these tomorrow along with purchase links. Prices will start from US$25 + shipping (shipped from the USA for cheaper rates).

 

 

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

STAN BUSH CONTINUES TO DREAM: Emmy Award winning recording artist and Melodic Rock icon Stan Bush will release via Frontiers Records in Europe his brand new studio album entitled Dream The Dream on August 27. Dream the Dream is Stan Bush 11th studio album and is destined to set in stone the singer/songwriter artistic abilities and taste for writing and performing nothing but classy music. With powerful melodies that have made Stan a popular singer/performers in the melodic rock community, "Dream The Dream" is another gem that will please his old and newer fans. "We've been working on the new album for a year and a half, and I'm very happy with it" says Bush, "The last album, "In This Life" got great reviews and though we had to work really hard, I think we've got ourselves another amazing album. Some of the songs have a 'go for it' message, and some are about love, life and a search for meaning". Producer and guitarist Holger Fath again helped Stan shape his creativity even though songwriters on the album include, apart from Stan and Holger, Bobby Barth (Axe, Blackfoot), Curt Cuomo (KISS, Eddie Money), Ed Tree and Lenny Macaluso. "I was honored to again work with Holger Fath as producer/guitarist (and also keys)" tells Stan, "I think he's brilliant and he's been a close friend for years. On drums, Matt Laug (Alice Cooper, Slash), is one of the best rock drummers in L.A. And on bass, Matt Bissonette (David Lee Roth, Rick Springfield) is incredibly solid". Apart from writing and recording albums, tracks from Stan's previous albums have appeared in several major films. He won an Emmy Award in 1997 for Best Original Song. As a vocalist, Stan has sung on albums by established artists such as Alice Cooper and Jefferson Starship and has worked with many top producers (Ron Nevison, Giorgio Moroder, Andy Johns, Mick Jones, Desmond Child, Peter Frampton, Paul Stanley, Richie Zito). He has co-written with many of top songwriters like Jonathan Cain (Journey), Jim Vallance (Bryan Adams; Aerosmith), and Paul Stanley of KISS.  Stan's songs have received covers from many notable bands. "Love Don't Lie" was covered by House of Lords, and "Slave To Love" was recorded by Quiet Riot. Stan announced touring plans in Europe in support to the release of "Dream The Dream" during the fall, so stay tuned for news! Dream The Dream final tracklisting includes: Never Hold Back; I'm Still Here; Don't Give Up on Love; Two Hearts; In My Life; Love Is The Road; If This Is All There Is; Dream The Dream; More Than a Miracle; Your Time: All That I Am; Sam's Theme (The Touch). The songs "I'm Still Here" and "Don't Give Up on Love" can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web radio. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Musicians: Stan Bush: vocals; Holger Fath: guitars, keyboards; Matt Bissonette: bass; Matt Laug: drums. Weblinks: www.stanbush.com / www.myspace.com/116446489 / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx BOBBY BLOTZER WRITES OF TENSION WITHIN RATT: Fresh from his DUI arrest, Ratt drummer Bobby Blotzer is now talking inner details of the workings within Ratt in 2010. Full interview at: www.noisecreep.com/2010/06/11/ratt-drummer-discusses-bands-control-issues. Highlights include: "Things are never a cakewalk in this band," Ratt drummer Bobby Blotzer tells Noisecreep via telephone. The sentence is flat and there's no arguing the point. "I never know from one day to the next that this band's going to be together because of certain people in this band. You can depend on me, I will be there for every show. I won't pull some of the shenanigans and stuff that people do in this band. And it makes it hard. It makes the creative tension-wise I guess on how that frustration comes in and goes into the music and comes out sounding like kick ass Ratt music. But it's just hard. It's between me, Warren [DeMartini] and Stephen [Pearcy] trying to perpetuate our way of doing business. You got three chiefs and no Indians." In fact, when pressed on what the members of Ratt fight about the most, Blotzer provides a simple, one word answer: "Control." Blotzer is brutally honest. His new book, 'Tales of a Ratt: Things You Shouldn't Know' tells the Ratt story from beginning to today from Blotzer's perspective. The autobiography was written by Blotzer with some help from writer friend Jim Clayton. Toward the middle of the book, Blotzer addresses the '90s when glam metal was no longer the favorite type of music and it was hard for bands like his to get work. Then there was the fact that his lead singer quit. Times were lean and bills had to be paid and Blotzer became an entrepreneur in order to keep his family afloat. Among others, Blotzer owned a steam cleaning business. While he was earning good money, Blotzer admits writing about the steam cleaning business was "painful." Despite the overwhelmingly positive reviews for 'Infestation' and the renewed interest in seeing Ratt live, Blotzer says there are some issues inside the band that will never fade away. Sometimes it's the little things like song choices that get members riled up. Blotzer wants to throw in some deeper cuts while not steering away from favorites like 'Round and Round.' "I want to do something deeper," Blotzer admits. "And I've been playing the same exact set every year, and Warren refuses to play new stuff. Not new stuff off the new record but stuff that we don't usually play from old records. And that frustrates me and it makes me distraught. His rebuttal is, 'Every band does that. Every band plays [the same songs].' Oh, not really. Some have quite a huge mixture in their tours that they do: Aerosmith and such. I mean, there are bands that play the same stuff. But we have such a large body of work and there's more stuff to play. I mean, I give it my all no matter what I'm playing. But I can totally do without playing 'Wanted Man' for a few years. Not that I don't love that song, but there's so much other stuff that I dig from our old records that I would love to play and people would love to hear. And I think there's just not enough open mindedness in this band to do that." In case you're wondering, Blotzer says some of the most requested songs not usually performed live are 'Givin' Yourself Away,' 'One Step Away' and 'Don't Bite the Hand that Feeds.' Ratt will start an American tour in July. 'Tales of a Ratt: Things You Shouldn't Know' is available via Amazon or Bobby Blotzer's official website. HUGHES AND LANDE TO PAY TRIBUTE TO DIO: High Voltage spoke exclusively to Tony Iommi at Metalhammer Golden God Awards, O2 Indigo, London, last night after announcing on stage that Heaven & Hell will be performing 'A Tribute To Ronnie James Dio' with special guests at High Voltage Festival, London on Saturday 24th July 2010. He explains that this will be a one off performance for the band and fans to remember Ronnie, it will be a truly special unmissable performance. Link: www.highvoltagefestival.com/2010/06/15/tony-iommi-talks-exclusively Guests are set to include Glenn Hughes and Jorn Lande. For ticket options: www.highvoltagefestival.com. MANTICORA TO RELEASE 7TH FULL LENGTH ALBUM IN SEPTEMBER: Longstanding Danish metal band Manticora have completed the recordings of their 7th full length album, Safe, at Jailhouse Studios, once again produced and mixed under the guiding hands of Tommy Hansen (known for Jorn Lande, Helloween, Pretty Maids…). Following the successful two-part "Black Circus" albums (released in 2006 and 2007 on now defunct Locomotive Music), "Safe" will see the band exploring a darker and heavier side of their songwriting than in recent years, and contrary to the simplicity of the album cover (a black/white cover only showcasing the band-symbol) "Safe" is filled with high-octane technical power-thrash. The songs on "Safe", including the 14 minute long title track (Manticora's longest song to date): In The Abyss Of Desperation, Silence The Freedom, Complete, From The Pain Of Loss (I Learned About The Truth), A Lake That Drained, Carrion Eaters, Safe, Embryonic Man (bonus track Japan). Upon renewing their deal for Japan with Stay Gold / Art Union Records for the release of the album, Manticora have signed with US based label Nightmare Records for the rest of the World. The releases in Europe and North America have been set for September 21. Stand by for news on the Asian release date. Also, Manticora has signed with Burrn! Music / Shinko Music Publishing for sub-publishing in Japan and with Enorm Music for sub-publishing in the rest of the World. In September 2010 Manticora will embark on a headliner tour, presented by Rock Hard Magazine, throughout Europe. Support on the tour will come from Norwegian power/prog band Divided Multitude. The dates confirmed so far (more to follow): September 24 2010 - Markthalle, Hamburg, Germany September 25 2010 - Turock, Essen, Germany October 01 2010 - Bastard Club, Osnabrück, Germany October 02 2010 - The Rock Temple, Kerkrade, Holland October 03 2010 - De Pul, Uden, Holland October 04 2010 - Nouveau Casino, Paris, France October 08 2010 - EventStage, Zizers, Switzerland October 09 2010 - Mephisto Club, Alessandria, Italy (tbc) October 11 2010 - Spinnerei, Traun, Austria October 12 2010 - Reigen, Wien, Austria October 13 2010 - Randal Club, Bratislava, Slovakia October 14 2010 - Crazy Mama, Budapest, Hungary October 29 2010 - The Rock, Copenhagen, Denmark More information on Manticora: www.manticora.dk / www.myspace.com/manticorarocks. MELODIC BRIEFS: Hard Rock House are re-issuing Tyketto's Strength In Numbers album, with an all new track "Love To Love" a taster for the upcoming Tyketto album! You can get the album direct from Hard Rock House: www.hardrockhouse.com/Strength.htm. Heavy.com have a new contest giving away a guitar signed by Ozzy Osbourne along with his entire solo catalog (including Scream): www.heavy.com/music/2010/06/win-a-guitar-signed-by-ozzy-osbourne. NUCLEAR BLAST IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE SIGNING OF DORO PESCH: Nuclear Blast is proud to announce the signing of German metal Queen Doro Pesch. The first mutual release will be the 2DVD/CD set "25 Years In Rock" featuring the entire 25 years anniversary concert including guest performances in front of about 10.000 enthusiastic Fans in Dusseldorf as well as a China special, outtakes Doro's 2500th gig and a whole lot more! The release is planned for November 2010 – more details to be unveiled soon! Commented Doro: "I am absolutely happy to be a part of Nuclear Blast now and I am looking forward to step the pedal to the metal together!!" Commented Nuclear Blast founder, owner & CEO Markus Staiger: "We're so proud to welcome the greatest, most important and most influential German rock singer Doro Pesch to the Nuclear Blast Family! Doro has influenced our musical universe like no other! Back in the 80ies she already made history with Warlock and ever since she's been defending her undisputed title as the #1! Her striking solo career ist a victorious march and her live performance still fascinates! In addition, Doro is such a fantastic, tender and gracious person who lives for her fans which had impressed us ever since! We are looking forward to the upcoming DVD "25 Years In Rock" and the following studio albums!" WebLinks: www.doropesch.com / www.myspace.com/doroband. SHADYON SIGNS WITH INNER WOUND RECORDINGS: Inner Wound Recordings are proud to announce the signing of the French progressive metal band Shadyon to the label. Their up-coming album Mind Control will be released in Europe and North America on August 27th. Shadyon combines progressive parts, powerful riffs and AOR melodies and blend them together in a tasteful way, and create their own brand of melodic progressive metal. Their musical inspiration comes from widely spread bands as Toto, Devin Townsend, Ark, In Flames, Winger and Evergrey. Track listing: 01. Calm before the storm 02. New dimension 03. Last escape 04. Forgotten nightmare 05. Mind control 06. Guardian angels 07. Into the fire 08. Strange visions 09. Sun and stars 10. Gates of dawn. Led by the emotional vocals of Emmanuel Creis, Shadyon presents a mature album with "Mind Control", full of hooks and emotion. With the perfect amount of melodic and progressive parts, this album will definitely appeal to fans of progressive and melodic metal as well as AOR and hard rock. Visit the official Shadyon MySpace profile for more information and to check out clips from the album: www.myspace.com/shadyon1

 

 

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

MELODIC ROCK RECORDS TO KICK OFF IN JULY: MelodicRockRecords has been formed to fill a niche I believe needs covering. It is about time this site had its own record label but I'm not about to compete with any of my label partners that I enjoy the support of. Rather MelodicRockRecords will simply be an avenue for me to work with artists and albums I believe in, artists who want to work with me and like my ideas and are perhaps looking for a different way of doing things. I also hope to bring to the market some lost gems from the vaults - amazingly there are still some prime records stuck in limbo from yesteryear. Many releases will be limited editions and all releases will have to hold up to my personal beliefs of what a great record should deliver - no matter the genre. MelodicRockRecords will be distributed throughout the UK and Scandinavia by Cargo Records; throughout Europe via AOR Heaven and via your favourite specialist online retailers in the USA and elsewhere. MelodicRockRecords offers guaranteed maximum exposure right here and the ability for fans to purchase these releases direct from MelodicRock.com via pre-sale. All pre-sale customers will be guaranteed copies in the case of limited editions, will occasionally be offered bonus track downloads and will get delivery of each release just prior to the announced release date. I'm continuing to build the concept of the label and what exactly I might be able to accomplish and of course...looking for the right artist/albums to work with! I won't be signing a ton of bands or releasing a record every month. Just a few quality releases throughout the year. Further details or submissions - contact me anytime: e-mail now.   MelodicRockRecords is very proud to announce the release of MRR001: Jimi Jamison & Jim Peterik - Extra Moments. Jimi Jamison teamed up with his former Survivor bandmate Jim Peterik in 2007 to record a new solo album. That album was released via Frontiers Records in 2008 to high critical acclaim and fan praise. The guys spent a year writing material for Crossroads Moment and even with 15 tracks included, there were several more that didn't make the cut. Jimi Jamison appears with the very generous approval of Frontiers Records. Jimi and Jim both loved the idea I had of compiling the various tracks that didn't make the original album for a stand alone release. Adding to the value of this release is some additional alternative takes and recording demos to round out a stunning 11 track release, showcasing the talent and chemistry of these much loved duo. The complete picture of Crossroads Moment is now available with the release of Extra Moments on July 23. Pre-Orders for this limited edition release will commence next Monday - June 21. The Track Listing is: Dream Higher; Chiseled In Stone; Cry Of The Wild Heart; Heart Of A Woman; Life #9; I Wanna Touch You There; Lifeforce; Chiseled In Stone (Demo, Jim Peterik lead vocal); She's Nothing To Me (Demo, Jim Peterik & Thom Griffin lead vocal); Lifeforce (Demo, Jim Peterik lead vocal); Life #9 (Demo, Jim Peterik lead vocal). Soundbytes and cover art previews coming right up!   YOU BETTER RUN FOR THE NEXT ESCAPE MUSIC RELEASE: Escape Music are pleased to announce their next release - Ferreira Better Run!!!, due out July 23 and featuring the line-up of: Marco Ferreira: Lead Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards; Patrick Sebastian: Guitars, Backing Vocals; Gus Monsanto: Bass, Acoustic Guitars, Backing Vocals; Alex Ferreira: Drums, Backing Vocals. Produced by: Marco Ferreira. Track Lists: 01-Secret Damned Society (5:24) 02-Set My Devils Free (4:40) 03-I Want Out (3:40) 04-Knocking On My Door (4:45) 05-Better Run !!! (4:46) 06-Rescue Me (Will You Be Ready) (3:41) 07-Rule In Self (3:48) 08-Crucified (5:01) 09-Defense Trust The Enemy (3:59) 10-History We Make (4:07). Download full length song to preview album: Ferreira - I Want Out Marco Ferreira - Still in 2010 just before the release of the new Goodbye Thrill record OUTRAGEOUS, Marco is back in the studio recording the third solo album Ferreira – Better Run !!! Produced, engineered, mixed and mastered by Marco at playrec studio. Better Run!!! starts the musical relationship between Marco and guitarist, friend based in Finland, Patrick Sebastian. Patrick and Marco were already exchanging demos online. On that exchange, 4 of the songs made to the album. Also a collaboration with Gus who co-wrote and performed the vocals on on song. With Alex Ferreira on the drums and backing vocals, Gus Monsanto on Bass and b.vocals, Patrick Sebastian on Guitars and b.vocals and Marco Ferreira on Lead Vocals and Guitars, The band Ferreira is completed and ready to come out and play… WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   xx SHIFT OF THE LEAD VOCALS IN H.E.A.T: No big surprise here...sad news though. Press Release / "We have the sad duty to inform you that H.E.A.T and vocalist Kenny Leckremo will go separate ways. The decision is taken in harmony by all the six members of H.E.A.T and we part as friends and brothers. Kenny has been the lead singer since the band formed in 2007. To our opinion, he is one of Sweden's most gifted rock singers and same time a talented and creative song writer. But recent years, Kenny has been attracted to another life in England. It is partly for strictly personal reasons - reasons we respect. Also, Kenny has been struggling with voice related health issues, that have affected both him and the band negatively. This all goes against our plan to become the biggest rock band in the world, a plan that we are fully committed to pursue. We have just released our second album Freedom Rock - and we have more in store for you. We intend to do all in our power to fulfil our engagements this summer and fall. Obviously, we have already initiated the search for Kenny's replacement. Our reasons for communicating this now, is that we want to avoid incorrect rumours, same time as we want to inform our fans about the situation. We are aware of the fact that Kenny is a by many beloved singer and we are very sad about the situation. We would like to ask for the support from our fans and friends since we are probably the ones grieving the most that we and Kenny go different ways." FATAL SMILE CALL UPON A NEW DRUMMER: Fatal Smile is searching for a drummer in the Stockholm area that's got what it takes and whose 110% dedicated to Rock n Roll - ready to tour the world! The band has made the following statement: "Due to Zteffs personal situation he is not able to dedicate his life to the craziness of a touring band anymore. We have spent three glorious years together, months at a time in a bus, shared thousands of miles, beers and many gallons of booze! He has never missed a beat or a gig and will be greatly missed by all in Fatal camp! So, now were looking for a new member of this mayhem we call our band! These are not easy boots to fill: The guy were looking for is a hungry, ambitious and crazy hard-hitter with the attitude and presence of a Fatal Smile, who enjoys spending his time on the road, in a bar and behind the drums – our drums! The one who helps find this monster will be honored with a finders fee: his first interview as a Fatal Smile! Please send a video, photo and a web/MySpace link & info about yourself to: info@fatalsmile.com. Looking forward to hearing from YOU!!!" MELODIC BRIEFS: Wounded Bird Records (USA) is going to release Rick Springfield's utterly classic 1976 record Wait For Night on CD for the first time (utilizing the 1982 RCA LP reissue cover design). Release is due in August: www.woundedbird.com/springfield_rick/4235.htm. Bon Jovi's David Bryan is currently working on a Broadway adaptation of Toxic Avenger. David's current Broadway play, Memphis, picked up four Tony awards: www.torontosun.com/entertainment/stage/2010/06/13/14377946.html. Never Enough is the new radio single from Kiss' Sonic Boom. The track was released to radio stations earlier this week. On the first day at radio - KEYJ/Abilene, WDHA/Jersey, WONE/Akron-Cleveland, WWHG/Madison, WZLX/Boston, WXZZ/Lexington and 93.1 The Bear/Iron Mt Michigan all reported playing the song. DAKOTA ROCK FEST ORGANIZER/PROMOTER TALKS: Dakota Rock Fest promoter Kevin Leisinger checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about the upcoming festival in Sioux Falls, S.D. starting July 22; if Bret Michaels physical woes will interfere with his appearance as festival headliner; stars like Lita Ford and Vince Neil and what to expect from their set list; expanding the festival to a three-day event and honoring Military families with free admission; and a whole lot more. To hear the entire interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/dakota-rock-fest.

 

 

Monday, June 14, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE A TERRY BROCK SECOND SOLO ALBUM: Frontiers Records will release on August 27 in Europe and September 14 in the USA Diamond Blue, the anticipated second solo album from the gifted singer Terry Brock. Best known as current vocalist in the Melodic Rock titans Giant, Terry has also recently announced to rejoin Strangeways, the legendary British AOR band that launched his name in the spotlight in the late 80's, for the recording of a brand new album. Still, in between these two very important milestone albums in the melodic rock year, Terry managed to complete "Diamond Blue" in collaboration with renowned guitarist / producer / songwriter Mike Slamer. The two of them have already worked together in Seventh Key and on the Slamer album "Nowhere Land" and have already showed the world the magic that the combination of their talent can achieve. "I had been working with Mike on Seventh Key and Slamer, so it was a natural progression. I begged him, basically, to do it !!" states Terry "I wouldn't have wanted anyone else !!" In "Diamond Blue" the two of them explore a more classic Melodic Rock sonic landscape which showcases Terry's vocal abilities in its most natural environment. Still, when Mike Slamer's around you can't help but having some roaring guitars and riveting guitar solos. All this, combined with a brilliant songwriting, builds up a fabulous release which is already very much talked and anticipated by the legions of Melodic Rock fans around the world. "Diamond Blue" also includes a song "Jessie's Gone" written by Terry with Strangeways' guitar player Ian Stewart. "This record" says Terry, "is the end result of years of very hard, fun work. It is the solo CD that I've always wanted to make, but never thought I could make. Mike pushed me to be better as a singer, songwriter and musician, and I believe the results show that. It is very representative of where I'm at as an artist now and I'm particularly happy that I could involve a lot of friends in the recording process". Terry Brock's musical career started as a background vocalist on Kansas album "Drastic Measures" in 1983. On that session he met Neil Kernon (the producer of the record) who subsequently turned out to be very important in Terry's career. He also toured with Kansas in support of that album, playing guitar and doing background vocals. Before joining the legendary british Melodic Rock outfit Strangeways, Terry toured extensively with the Steve Morse Band, playing guitar and singing. Strangeways, of course, were Terry's best known experience in the music business. With them he recorded two albums on BMG / RCA: "Native Sons" and "Walk In the Fire". With Strangeways he toured extensively around the whole of Europe garnering the band a reputation as one of the best UK based AOR bands ever and for himself the mantle of being the real heir to Steve Perry's (of Journey) throne. After he left Strangeways he moved to New York working mainly with famed producer Neil Kernon, who hired him to sing background vocals on albums by bands such as Aviator, Heaven's Edge, Valentine, Britny Fox and Michael Bolton. After a few years spent in Nashville, he came back on the scene taking part in the Melodic Rock supergroup The Sign and later with Seventh Key (both featuring Kansas bassist/singer Billy Greer) and Slamer. He recently joined Giant as replacement for Dann Huff on vocals on the acclaimed "Promise Land" album and he is currently working on the recording of the anticipated Strangeways reunion cd scheduled for a fall release on Frontiers. "Diamond Blue" final tracklisting includes: Diamond Blue; It's You; Jessie's Gone; No More Mr. Nice Guy; The Rain; Broken; Face in the Crowd; Why; Too Young; Soldier Falls; Face The Night. The songs Diamond Blue and Jessie's Gone can exclusively be listened in full in streaming on the Frontiers Web Radio from June 13. Tune in at: www.frontiers.it/webradio. Musicians: Terry Brock: vocals, guitar; Mike Slamer: guitars, bass, keyboards; Andy Bigan: drums. Weblinks: www.facebook.com/Terry.Brock.Music.Page / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx A PREVIEW OF THINGS TO COME: I've been lucky enough to sample several new albums expected over the months ahead. I'll talk in more detail about this in the days and weeks ahead. But right now a few comments about two specific albums. First Signal is a new name to a couple of familiar faces. Erik Martensson of Eclipse/W.E.T. has been given the task of coming up with another album of killer songs, but this time around it is with the voice of Harem Scarem at the mike. Harry Hess has dived into his first post-Harem project to deliver something very special for fans. So what does First Signal sound like? Right now I have 6 rough mixes on hand and love what I'm hearing. As expected, it is a massive AOR sound and a wall of great vocals. The style? Old...and new... There are a couple of tracks I figured could have come from the debut Harem Scarem album (yes indeed!), a couple of songs that might have sounded at home on the debut W.E.T. release and the other 2 tracks had a more modern edge that Harem were so very good at. All in all - 6 fabulous songs - and a mix of styles that seemed to blend together beautifully. Folks can get very excited about this. Much like W.E.T., this looks like taking the very best of the past and brining it up to date, but staying true to what fans want to hear. Track by Track preview soon....but watch for a cover of the lost Mark Free track Naked Desire. Two Fires have been on hiatus for some time now, but Kevin Chalfant and band roar back to life with what looks to be a perfect slice of pure 80s AOR. The band came under fire for production values previously, but this time around should deliver the best sounding record to date. Plus the 4 songs I have previewed have everything in there we love about Kevin and the first two records including one monster ballad called Shattered. Two very good records coming up and more to talk about soon. PS. Terry Brock has out done himself!

 

 

Friday, June 11, 2010

BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION SETS RELEASE DATE: Black Country Communion the Anglo/American rock supergroup comprising vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple Black Sabbath, Trapeze), drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin), keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Billy Idol) and blues rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa, today confirmed the release date and track listing for their highly anticipated debut album Black Country. The album will be released by Mascot Records in the UK and the rest of Europe on Monday September 20th, followed by a North American release through J&R Adventures on Tuesday September 21st. All songs are sung by Glenn Hughes, with the exception of Song Of Yesterday and The Revolution In Me which are both sung by Joe Bonamassa. Hughes and Bonamassa share lead vocals on the songs Sista Jane and Too Late For The Sun. Also included on the album is a new version of Medusa, the classic rock song that Hughes originally recorded with his first band Trapeze.   Track Listing: 1. Black Country 2. One Last Soul 3. The Great Divide 4. Down Again 5. Beggarman 6. Song Of Yesterday 7. No Time 8. Medusa 9. The Revolution In Me 10. Stand (At The Burning Tree) 11. Sista Jane 12. Too Late For The Sun. Black Country Communion is the brainchild of producer Kevin Shirley (Journey, Black Crowes, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin). The album, produced and mixed by Shirley, is mastered by the legendary Bob Ludwig. Black Country Communion initially came to fruition when Kevin Shirley saw Glenn Hughes and Joe Bonamassa join forces on stage in Los Angeles in November 2009 for an explosive performance at Guitar Center's King of the Blues event. Shirley recruited powerhouse drummer Jason Bonham (Led Zeppelin, Foreigner) and keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theatre, Billy Idol, Alice Cooper). The band is named after the industrial area in the British Midlands where both Hughes and Bonham were born and raised, recorded the debut album at Shangri-La Studios in early 2010. The band is planning a tour in 2011.   'The Voice Of Rock' is a true original. No other rock musician has carved such a distinctive style blending the finest elements of hard rock, soul and funk. That astonishing voice is Hughes' calling card. He's known as a singer's singer, with 80+ gold and platinum albums and collective sales of over 100 million units to his name. Hughes has been at the forefront of the music scene since first achieving success in 1970 with his band Trapeze, before going on to worldwide recognition in 1973 when he joined one of the most popular bands in the world, Deep Purple. Hughes' R&B-infused bass lines and explosive vocal range blazed throughout the band's hugely successful world tours and albums, including their classic 1974 release, Burn. Following Deep Purple's split in 1976; Hughes made countless guest appearances as a vocalist, bass guitarist and songwriter on other artists' albums, including Black Sabbath's Seventh Star. Since 1992, Hughes has toured extensively in Europe, Asia and South America in support of solo albums, including the acclaimed Soul Mover and his most recent release, First Underground Nuclear Kitchen, both featuring Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith. Part prodigy, part virtuoso, (the rest being mercilessly honed guitar skills and tireless work ethic) Joe Bonamassa has built his reputation as one of the world's greatest guitar players since his career started, at age 12, performing with B.B. King and John Lee Hooker. Heavily influenced by British and Irish rock legends including Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Rory Gallagher, Bonamassa went on to tour and performed with Buddy Guy, Foreigner, Bad Company, Joe Cocker and Gregg Allman before beginning his recording career in the early '90s with Bloodline, a hard-charging rock-blues band with the sons of Robby Kreiger (The Doors), Miles Davis and Berry Oakley (The Allman Brothers Band). When he went solo as a singer/songwriter, Bonamassa recorded his critically acclaimed debut album, A New Day Yesterday, with legendary producer Tom Dowd. Barely into his 30s with twenty years of experience in the music business and recording a total of ten albums on his own independent label J&R Adventures (six of which debuted at #1 on the Billboard's Blues Chart), Bonamassa sold out London's prestigious Royal Albert Hall in less than a week in 2009 for a stunning performance filmed for the DVD Joe Bonamassa: Live From Royal Albert Hall, featuring a guest appearance by Eric Clapton. "Always on the road," Bonamassa performs his transformational live act at more than 200 concerts around the world each year including touring during 2010 in support of his most recent release, the Billboard blues #1(and #39 on the Top 200 Chart) album Black Rock, and plans to reunite with Eric Clapton for the Crossroads Guitar Festival in Chicago on June 26. The legacy of Led Zeppelin lives on in Jason Bonham, British drummer and son of Zep's legendary John Bonham. Inheriting the best of his father's skills while mastering his own distinctive and dynamic technique, Bonham blasted onto the world stage at age 17 with the band Air Race, opening for huge draws like Queen, Meat Loaf and AC/DC. In 1988, Bonham took his father's spot in the televised, first-ever Led Zeppelin reunion at the Atlantic Records 40th Anniversary Concert. Later that year, Bonham toured with Jimmy Page and recorded his album, Outrider. Earning a gold record on the track "Wait for You" from his solo album The Disregard of Timekeeping, Bonham went on to team up with Paul Rodgers, Slash, David Gilmour and Jeff Beck to record the Grammy-nominated album, Tribute to Muddy Waters. Bonham has made a career of entertaining audiences around the world, touring with The Healing Sixes and Foreigner and rejoining his late father's band members for the most anticipated concert of all time, 2007's Led Zeppelin reunion at London's O2 Arena. In 2006, Bonham recorded the year's top Billboard blues album, You and Me with Joe Bonamassa. A versatile keyboardist who mixes technical proficiency with distinctively raw power, Derek Sherinian has toured and recorded with some of the biggest names in rock. Sherinian got his big break in 1989, touring with legendary shock-rocker Alice Cooper in support of the multi-platinum albums Trash and Hey Stoopid. In 1991, Sherinian caught the attention of Gene Simmons, joining Kiss for their Revenge tour and recording Alive III. Moving into progressive rock, Sherinian joined Dream Theater in 1994, recording three albums and performing on two world tours. Going solo in 1999, Sherinian has recorded six albums, teaming up with legends including Billy Idol, Slash, Al DiMeola, Steve Lukather (Toto) and Zakk Wylde (Ozzy Osbourne) to create a catalogue of music that fuses hard rock intensity with dynamic, jazz-infused flair. Essential Black Country Communion Links: www.bccommunion.com / www.facebook.com/bccommunion / twitter.com/bccommunion / www.myspace.com/bccommunion / www.mascotrecords.com.   MOONDANCE JAM FINAL DETAILS: Walker, Minnesota (June 10, 2010) – When classic rock fans gather this year at the 19 annual Moondance Jam, opening night headliner Sammy Hagar will be representing the old school of rock, while Buckcherry, Collective Soul, Hoobastank and Tonic will be there to show that modern rock bands love classic rock, too. Sammy Hagar And The Wabos - The Red Rocker's career started with Montrose in the S.F. Bay Area. He left for a solo career in 1975, and as soon as he became a star, Van Halen selected him as the man to take over for the departed David Lee Roth. VH became one of the biggest bands in the world with Hagar fronting the band, selling out arenas and amphitheaters with regularity and selling millions of records, before the band imploded in 1996. Hagar then resumed his solo career-he has toured regularly and released six records since forming the Waboritas. He also found time for an ill-fated reunion of Van Halen in 2004, and in 2008, formed the supergroup Chickenfoot with guitarist Joe Satriani, bassist Michael Anthony (from Van Halen) and drummer Chad Smith (The Red Hot Chili Peppers). The rock world's most famous tequila salesman has found happiness onstage with the Waboritas (guitarist Vic Johnson, bassist Mona and drummer David Lauser), a versatile, tight unit that that can play the driving rock of Montrose, the meat-and-potatoes rock of Sammy's solo career and the melodic metal of Van Halen. At Moondance, expect Sammy to put on his typical Cabo Wabo-styled party that features his solo hits, VH stuff, a Montrose chestnut and lots of tequila. Buckcherry - If sleaze rock band Buckcherry was a baseball player, its bio would read something like this-great rookie season, sophomore slump, a brief trip to the minors, back with a big splash and now a steady all-star performer. The band rode its debut single, the drug fueled "Lit Up" ("I love the cocaine") all the way to number one in 1999, and the debut album sold well as the band toured regularly that year. It's follow up slumped, however, and by 2002, Buckchery was on hiatus. Vocalist Josh Todd put out a solo album, and guitarist Keith Nelson kicked around Hollywood, but the duo finally realized the only thing to do was to put the band back together. With new members Stevie D. (guitar), Jimmy Ashhurst (bass) and Xavier Muriel (drums), the band came roaring back with the album 15, which featured the quintet's biggest hit, "Crazy Bitch," as well as "Sorry" and "Everything." Black Butterfly, the band's fourth album followed, and the group toured late last year with Kiss, solidifying its reputation as a great live band with a dynamic stage show. The band has now scored six Top 20 hits since reconvening, and its fifth album, All Night Long, is due August 3. At its recent Rocklahoma appearance, the band played all of the hits, a few early songs from the debut and the new single, also titled "All Night Long." Collective Soul - Collective Soul was formed in the small town of Stockbridge, Georgia in the early '90s. The band's first album, the independently released Hints, Allegations and Things Left Unsaid, proved popular enough on the local level that Atlantic Records picked it up the following year. Within months of its release, the album's first single, "Shine," became a modern rock and MTV staple, and the group found itself with a platinum debut, playing everywhere from arenas with Aerosmith to Woodstock 1994. The band followed that record with the self-titled sophomore effort the following year, which featured the hits "The World I Know" and "December." That record once again went multi-platinum, but subsequent releases failed to sell as well, so the band took a five-year break (releasing only a greatest hits set in 2001). In 2004, the group returned to their roots, bringing in new guitar player Joel Kosche and releasing the stripped-down and dynamic Youth album, which featured the band's comeback hit "Better Now." The band's self –titled eighth record has kept the group on the road for most of the last year due to the strength of the single "Welcome All Again." The band has released 15 songs that have made into the mainstream Top 20, and most of these songs make up the band's live show. Hoobastank - Authors of the best-selling singles "Crawling in the Dark," "Running Away" and "The Reason," modern rockers Hoobastank will make its first ever appearance at MJ this July. Despite heavy chart success and a relentless touring schedule, the band's second and third releases failed to sell as well as its debut; the band struck back with its fourth release, For(N)ever and the single "My Turn." The group spent last summer opening for Creed on the band's reunion tour. Expect a fast-paced, high energy set full of active rock hits during Hoobastank's performance. Tonic - Tonic is best known for its debut platinum album, Lemon Parade, and it's massive hit single," If You Could Only See," as well as "Open Up Your Eyes." Tonic spent years on the road promoting that first effort, but subsequent releases failed to match those of Lemon Parade, so after self-producing their 1999 album Sugar and releasing their third album Head on Straight in 2002, the band went on hiatus beginning in 2004, while its members pursued other musical endeavors. The band became active again in late 2008, embarking on a tour and releasing a greatest hits compilation. Their self-titled fourth studio album, Tonic, which features the current radio single "Release Me," was released in May. Tonic will be one of the first major label acts featured in the 3 p.m. slot at MJ this year, as the promoters beefed up the line-up with 15 national acts. The daily schedules are listed below: Wednesday, July 14 (Pre-party) 10:30 p.m.-Hairball 9:00 p.m.-Mountain Ash 7:30 p.m.-Free Fallin-a tribute to Tom Petty 6:00 p.m.-The Minnesota Whiskey Piggz Thursday July 15 11:00 p.m.-Sammy Hagar and the Wabos 9:00 p.m.-Buckcherry 7:00 p.m.-Collective Soul 5:00 p.m.-Hoobastank 3:00 p.m.-Tonic Friday July 16 11:00 p.m.-REO Speedweagon 9:00 p.m.-Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo 7:00 p.m.-Don Felder's "An Evening at the Hotel California" 5:00 p.m.-The Smithereens 3:00 p.m.-Pat Travers Saturday July 17 11:00 p.m.-Lynyrd Skynyrd 9:00 p.m.-Jonny Lang 7:00 p.m.-Cinderella 5:00 p.m.-Black Stone Cherry 3:00 p.m.-Blackberry Smoke Tickets are still available in a variety of packages. Concert goers can purchase Rockstar All Access, VIP, three day General Admission and single day tickets as well as camping and parking passes online or by contacting the Moondance ticket office. Moondance Jam has festival seating for General Admission ticket holders, meaning that front row access and lawn seating is available for everyone. Free parking will be available this year at the Northern Lights Casino in Walker. Shuttles will take festival goers to and from the festival site; a regular schedule can be obtained on the first day of the festival. Moondance Jam is held on the beautiful 300 acre Moondance Events festival grounds, situated in the middle of Chippewa National Forest near Leech Lake. The festival features thousands of campsites, well-kept facilities, two bars with regional entertainment, excellent security, many food and beverage vendors, an experienced staff and owners who have been organizing music festivals since 1992. The safe, fan friendly atmosphere and idyllic location are just a few reasons why people return year after year to the Walker Area for the Moondance music festivals. TRACII GUNS AUTOBIOGRAPHY COMING: This summer Tracii Guns (L.A. Guns, Brides Of Destruction) will begin writing his autobiography with music biographer Jake Brown (Heart, Motorhead, Rick Rubin). Tracii is finally giving fans the inside story of his rapid rise through the Hollywood rock scene with his band L.A. GUNS, culminating with his signing at age 18 with a major label. When most kids his age were heading off to college, Tracii headed off on his first world tour, and for 25 years since, he has lived a life that remains a dream for most. Tracii, who played a role in co-founding the biggest hard rock band of the past 25 years — Guns N' Roses — has decided to let his fans live vicariously through one of the greatest periods of rock history in the pages of this new book. Fans can also look forward to bonus content accompanying the book's retail release, including a DVD retrospective on Tracii's career, featuring a live tribute show where Tracii will perform many of his greatest hits alongside a star-studded roster of special guests and longtime friends. Commented Brown: "[With Tracii's memoir] fans can expect to avoid the typical tell-all fluff that sometimes distracts from what is, in this instance, truly one of the most fascinating and serendipitous adventures down the rock and roll rabbit hole." BUCKCHERRY UNVEILS FREE DOWNLOAD TO "OUR WORLD": (New York, NY) - Rockers Buckcherry have posted "Our World," a track from their newly-completed forthcoming album, All Night Long on their website at www.buckcherry.com as their offering of support for the victims of the Gulf oil tragedy. The song, which was originally written as an anthemic cry out to help right the social, environmental, economic and other wrongs of this world, represents the band's commitment to expose the BP disaster and to bring awareness and support to the crisis and its victims - human and animal. The band will also offer links on their website to helpful organizations allowing fans to connect to provide financial and other support. Buckcherry frontman Josh Todd commented, "As musicians who have the benefit of the spotlight from time to time, we feel it is our duty to aid in raising awareness and financial support to help remedy the awful situation in the Gulf Of Mexico. It is so important that each and every one of us do what we can to help those out whose lives have been harshly impacted by the oil spill." Buckcherry's new album, All Night Long is set for an August 3rd release via original independent label, Eleven Seven Music. The title track has been called "The top down anthem" by Billboard. In their more than decade-long career, multi-platinum artists Buckcherry have established themselves as a definitive hard rock band with a massive presence at radio. Hits such as "Lit Up," "Crazy Bitch," and "Sorry" have propelled the band's sales to more than 3 million albums worldwide and have garnered Buckcherry two Grammy nominations. Their most recent album, 2008's Black Butterfly, earned the band their first-ever Top Ten Billboard album debut, with the album coming in at #8. Black Butterfly was deemed the "Album Of The Year" by Entertainment Weekly and "Best Rock Album" by iTunes. For more information, please visit: www.buckcherry.com. MIKE LEVINE OF TRIUMPH TO APPEAR ON HARD ROCK NIGHTS: Mike Levine of the legendary Canadian group Triumph will be the special guest on the June 11-17 episode of Hard Rock Nights. Levine, the bassist and keyboardist for the group, joins JT to discuss the band's new Greatest Hits Remixed release, a CD/DVD combo highlighting the band's career. He will also reveal what he views as the ultimate Triumph song, and the history behind why he wears a hockey jersey at many concerts. Hard Rock Nights is a weekly syndicated program broadcast on a number of rock and metal stations. Visit: hardrocknights.wordpress.com/affiliates for a full list of stations and times. UPDATES PENDING: MR-X update will be online tomorrow (Sat). Still uploading today's files.... Tune in Monday for preview comments on the much anticipated First Signal release, featuring vocalist Harry Hess and also the new Two Fires album. I'll be living with some rough mixes from both albums over the weekend to bring some first thought previews to the site Monday! Tune in Tuesday for the announcement of the first MelodicRockRecords release - a slight change of plans for MRR001, but I think melodic rock fans will be pleasantly surprised by this news. MRR002 (an artist originally planned as the label's debut) will be announced in a couple of weeks time.

 

 

Thursday, June 10, 2010

SANTANA / JOURNEY LEGEND GREGG ROLIE PREPARES FOR SUMMER TOUR: 6/7/2010 - Houston, TX - Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Gregg Rolie, best known for his vocals and keyboard work with legendary music groups Santana and Journey, will be playing select dates with his band throughout the summer. The Gregg Rolie Band will be performing electrifying versions of several Santana classics such as "Evil Ways", "Black Magic Woman" "Soul Sacrifice", "Jingo" and "No One To Depend On" as well as tracks from Rolie's previous effort 'Roots' and new songs. The Gregg Rolie Band consists of Adrian Areas (son of original Santana percussionist Jose Chepito Areas) on Timbales, drummer Ron Wikso (who was also in The Storm), Elliot "Toby" Borrero on congas, Kurt Griffey on guitars, internationally acclaimed bassist, Chapman Stick artist and Santana alumni Alphonso Johnson and former Jean Luc Ponty keyboardist Wally Minko. As you might imagine from his work with Santana and Journey, Gregg is no stranger to great musicianship. Given his experience and his desire to make the music the best it can be, he has chosen some of the best musicians in the world to bring his band and its music to life. Gregg was determined to resurrect the sound he helped shape and make famous as Santana's original lead singer and keyboard player, while at the same time bringing it forward to the 21st century. To do that required finding just the right mix of experience, musicianship and chemistry. Having worked with some of the biggest names in music over the years and having toured the world many times over, these musicians have the skills to interpret this music in the way it is meant to be interpreted, as Gregg so intimately knows. "The band is great, because we all really enjoy each other and I think the sound reflects the fun we are having," Gregg recently told Voices of Latin Rock. "We subtitle the band; Gregg Rolie Band... 'Santana - the way you remember it." The Gregg Rolie Band will be performing on the following dates: Jun 17 - Thurs - 05:00 PM - City Park, Albany, NY Jun 18 - Fri - 08:00 PM - BB King's Club, New York, NY Jun 19 - Sat - 08:00 PM - Mohegan Sun Wolf Den, Uncasville, CT Jun 20 - Sun - 08:00 PM - Hershey Park, Hershey, PA Jun 21 - Mon - 08:00 PM - Ram's Head On Stage, Annapolis, MD Jun 22 - Tues - 07:30 PM - Jaxx Nite Club, Springfield, VA Jun 25 - Fri - 08:00 PM - Lakeside Amphitheater, Lakeside, OH Jul 09 - Fri - 05:00 PM - Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, CA Jul 23 - Fri - 08:00 PM - Meadowbrook Park, Hamden, CT Sep 03 - Fri - 07:00 PM - Wind River Casino, Riverton, WY Most recently Gregg Rolie has caused a flurry of excitement amongst the music press with the release of his latest CD Rain Dance. This live CD captures Gregg and his all-star band performing at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in 2007. The music press and fans alike have been raving about the new CD and have even compared Rolie's band to that of the original Santana group, in which Rolie was a founding member. "The reviews have been great," says Gregg. "The band and I are anxious to get out on the road and play as many cities as possible in 2010, 2011, 2012 and so on..." Gregg Rolie's 'Rain Dance' CD is available through CD Baby. For more information visit the official website: www.greggrolie.com. AOR UNDERGROUND AND POWERPLAY MAGAZINE NEEDS YOUR HELP!: A word of note from UK Journo Robbie Evans: "We here at Powerplay Magazine, are pleased to announce the 100th appearance of the column, AOR Underground, in the pages of the magazine. One hundred Issues and nearly ten years is a milestone for any column, but for an AOR one, It's damn near a miracle! To celebrate this momentous, pink and fluffy, occasion we would, normally, like to invite you round for toasted marshmallows and cake.... Pink icing, a must! However, that's not going to happen, oh no, as we've got something better than cake! Instead we would like your help in compiling the top 50 AOR albums of the last fifteen years. So why the last fifteen years, I hear you ask? Well, back in issue 73 (our fiftieth issue) we ran the Top Fifty AOR albums of all time. When the dust settled and the votes had been counted there was not one album from after 1995 that even remotely made the Top 50. So that got us thinking about what modern day AOR albums would you pink 'n fluffy people count as your favorites? Could it be the likes of Terry Brock with "Back To Eden" or Hugo with his "S/T" debut from 1997? Maybe that last Journey album could be the one for you? Whatever your choice it'll certainly be an interesting one. To vote, all you need to do is send a list of your top-ten AOR albums from between the years 1996 and 2010, in an email, to myself, Rob Evans at robbievans@sky.com. The results, in an extra special edition of AOR Underground, will appear in Issue 123 of Powerplay. The criteria as to what counts as an AOR/Hard Rock band can be anything from Leverage and Dokken, through to Journey and Ten and anything in-between. The only thing that matters, is your vote! You have until June 21st. What are you waiting for? More info can be found at: www.myspace.com/aorundergroundrobevans. FM @ DOWNLOAD UK: A great bit of FM news - the guys are playing the main stage at Download on Sunday 13 June 2010. They have been confirmed to replace Ratt who pulled out earlier this week. I'm told the band is: "thrilled and very much looking forward to it!" Full details: www.downloadfestival.co.uk/home / www.fmofficial.com. ANNOUNCING THE SUMMER OF SIN 2010 TOUR DATES: Jamsync Music is announcing a label tour featuring Asphalt Valentine, Mama Kin and Modern Superstar. Confirmed dates are below with more dates expected and announced. June 18 - Sixpence Pub - Parkersburg, WV - Modern Superstar only June 19 - Steel Mill - Martins Ferry, OH - Modern Superstar only July 15 - Crocodile Rock - Allentown, PA July 16 - Moniraes - Pennellville, NY July 22 - South Dakota Rock Fest July 23 - South Dakota Rock Fest July 24 - The Back Bar - Janesville, WI July 30 - Steel Mill - Matins Ferry, OH Aug 4 - Jack Rabbit's - Jacksonville, FL Aug 5 - Coasters - Ft. Walton Beach, FL Aug 6 - Divebar - Raleigh, NC Aug 13 - Uptown Loft - John's Creek, GA Aug 14 - Grim Reaper Clubhouse - Shadyside, OH For more information visit: www.jamsyncmusic.com. CARMINE APPICE TO PLAY EUROPEAN DATES WITH MOONSTONE PROJECT: Next Fall, the legendary Carmine Appice (drummer with Vanilla Fudge, Rod Stewart, Ozzy Osbourne, Jeff Beck and many others) is gonna play some European gigs with Moonstone Project, the band/studio project of guitarist Matt Filippini. Moonstone Project, over the last 5 years, played several Euro gigs with the likes of Ian Paice (Deep Purple), Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple, Black Sabbath) and Bernie Marsden (Whitesnake). They also released 2 studio albums of original songs, featuring an impressive list of rockstars! This time Matt and his guys are gonna perform with the rock drummer par excellence: Mr Carmine Appice! Here are confirmed gigs so far! More to be added: Sept 29 Peocio, Trofarello (Turin) Italy www.ilpeocio.com Sept 30 Land Of Live, Legnano (Milan) Italy www.landoflive.it Oct 1 Naima Club, Forlí Italy www.naimaclub.it Oct 4 Druso Circus, Bergamo Italy www..myspace.com/drusocafe Oct 5 Teatro Caruso, Papozze (Rovigo) Italy www.teatropapozze.com Oct 6 Gasometer, Vienna Austria www.planet.tt Oct 8 Ramdall - Madrid Spain www.salaramdall.com Oct 9 Sala Rockstar - Bilbao Spain www.salarockstar.com For more info, please visit: www.carmineappice.com / www.mattfilippini.com / www.myspace.com/moonstoneproject. RUSH ON SCREEN - BEHIND THE SCENES: An excerpt from a great little Rush interview at Spinner.ca - www.spinner.ca/2010/06/08/rush-documentary-beyond-the-lighted-stage/ The Banger Films team behind such hard-rocking movies as 'Metal: A Headbanger's Journey,' the Juno Award-winning Iron Maiden concert film 'Flight 666' and the forthcoming VH-1 series 'Metal Evolution,' Sam Dunn and Scot McFadyen spent nearly three years creating the first comprehensive film history of the Toronto-based power trio. The fruits of their labour -- 'Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage' -- lands in movie theatres in Europe on June 7 and across North America on June 10. It will then be released on DVD and Blu-Ray on June 29, the same day Rush begins a summer tour of North America. "They're nice guys," Rush lead singer Geddy Lee tells Spinner, "and they seem very passionate about what they're doing so when they have a request of you, it's very hard to say no. They came over to the house and sifted through all these endless plastic containers of Rush ephemera that I've somehow collected over the years. It's been interesting to help sort through a lot of those things, things that I forgot I had, pictures of us from the very old days." Yet Lee also admits to sometimes feeling uncomfortable during the archeological expedition that the film represented. "It's a bit uncomfortable dwelling so much on what has happened -- we are more used to looking forward." Die-hard fans, however, will be thrilled by the doc's wealth of never-before-seen archival material, much of it drawn from the personal collections of members Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart. It also features concert footage from nearly every era of the band, from their earliest days as bluesy, Led Zeppelin-style teen rockers from the unglamorous suburbs of Toronto (including recently discovered footage of the group playing an early high-school gig with original drummer John Rutsey), to their breakthrough years as robe-wearing prog-metal pioneers, to the propulsive, new wave-influenced power trio that emerged in the early '80s, to the still-dexterous unit of the '90s and beyond. (That storied legacy is evidently on the band's collective mind, too -- Rush will perform their classic 'Moving Pictures' in its entirety on the new tour.) Interviews with Rush fanatics such as Smashing Pumpkins' Billy Corgan, Metallica's Kirk Hammett and Nine Inch Nails' Trent Reznor help paint a fuller, richer portrait of Rush's impact on the lives of listeners and peers than viewers might've gotten from a straightforward rendering of the band's 42-year history. What's more, the movie's many revealing and often very funny moments with Geddy, Alex and Neil, both individually and together, gives 'Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage' an appeal that extends far beyond the core audience of devotees who can recite every lyric on '2112.' SAMMY HAGAR TO OPEN 11 AEROSMITH SHOWS: Following seven triumphant South American "Cocked, Locked, Ready To Rock Tour" dates (the final one playing this evening in Costa Rica, the largest concert in that country's history) and eleven upcoming European dates, Boston hard rock legends Aerosmith will be more than warmed up and ready to arrive in the U.S. in what will surely be THE concert event of the summer. Live Nation, the national tour promoter for Aerosmith confirmed that The Bad Boys of Boston are hitting the road for an 18-city US tour this summer with the "Cocked, Locked, Ready To Rock Tour" that begins on July 23 in Oakland, California. Tickets go on sale in select markets beginning Friday, June 4 at LiveNation.com. Sammy Hagar And The Wabos will open eleven of the sixteen announced shows. Support in other markets will be announced shortly. Confirmed dates are as follows: Jul. 23 - Oakland, CA - Oracle Arena Jul. 26 - Paso Robles, CA - California Mid-State Fair Jul. 29 - Irvine, CA - Verizon Wireless Amphitheater Jul. 31 - Las Vegas, NV - MGM Grand Garden Arena Aug. 03 - Dallas, TX - Superpages.com Amphitheatre Aug. 05 - Woodlands, TX - Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Aug. 07 - Tampa, FL - Ford Amphitheatre Aug. 09 - Fort Lauderdale, FL - BankAtlantic Center Aug. 12 - Wantagh, NY - Nikon at Jones Beach Theater Aug. 14 - Boston, MA - Fenway Park Aug. 17 - Toronto, ONT - Air Canada Centre Aug. 19 - Omaha, NE - Qwest Center Aug. 22 - Tinley Park, IL - First Midwest Bank Amphitheater Aug. 24 - Holmdel, NJ - PNJ Bank Arts Center Aug. 26 - Syracuse, NY - New York State Fair Aug. 28 - Atlantic City, NJ - Boardwalk Hall Aug. 31 - Detroit, MI - The Palace at Auburn Hills Sep. 02 - Cincinnati, OH - Riverbend Music Center Sep. 04 - Uncasville, CT - Mohegan Sun Arena

 

 

Wednesday, June 09, 2010

AVENUE OF ALLIES MUSIC PRESS RELEASE: On May 14, Avenue Of Allies released the albums of the two Italian newcomers Shining Line and Skill in Veins. To celebrate this event the two bands had a nice dinner near the Lago Maggiore lake shore in Italy. From left to right: Francesco Jovino (Skill in Veins, U.D.O., Edge Of Forever); Pierpaolo "Zorro11" Monti (Shining Line); Gabriele Gozzi (Skill in Veins, Markonee); Alessandro Del Vecchio (producer of both albums and member of Edge Of Forever, Moonstone Project, Axe, Glenn Hughes and Eden's Curse); Andrea Lanza (Skill in Veins); Gregor Klee (Avenue Of Allies, label manager); kneeling in the front: Amos Monti (Shining Line).   Meanwhile Skill in Veins (www.skillinveins.com; www.myspace.com/skillinveins) have completed their first music video for the track "Youth Times" and it's definitely worth checking out: www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0B1_Ia9Zvw. Shining Line (www.myspace.com/shiningline) also present a new album teaser featuring soundbytes of all songs of the CD and giving a complete overview of the impressive line-up of musicians contributing to the recordings. Click any of the pictures or visit: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGuJOfUrk2Y. In June four brand new albums are coming your way, covering a pretty nice variety of music styles. All CDs will be available worldwide on June 18. Joey Summer - Written On The Horizon (Avenue10060014) Impressive Melodic Rock & AOR from Brazil. Feat. Göran Edman, Fredrik Bergh, Michael Müller and Julio Cezar. Incl. songs by Göran Edman, Fredrik Bergh, Michael Bormann and Kee Marcello. www.joeysummer.com / www.myspace.com/joeysummer2009. Wheels Of Fire - Hollywood Rocks (Avenue10070015) Keyboard laced ultra catchy AOR like early Danger Danger, Bon Jovi, Winger and Firehouse. Produced by Michele Luppi (Los Angeles, Killing Touch, Ex-Vision Divine) www.wheels-of-fire.com / www.myspace.com/wheelsoffiretheband State Cows - State Cows (Avenue10080016) The triumphant return of the classic Westcoast sound of Pages, Steely Dan and Airplay. Feat. Jay Graydon on guitar. www.statecows.com / www.facebook.com/statecows / www.myspace.com/statecows. Angeline – Confessions (Avenue10090017) Big sounding, crunchy Melodic Rock from Sweden. Massive hooks & harmonies meet mighty riffs à la Harem Scarem & Gun. www.angelinetheband.se / www.myspace.com/angelinetheband.   xxxxxx For more information about the releases and for all inquiries regarding wholesale, distribution and promotion And for any other question please write to: info@avenue-of-allies.com / www.avenue-of-allies.com. Stargazer, one of the bands on the Avenue Of Allies roster, is close to make it to a large festival in their home country of Norway. You all can help them to get there by simply voting for them on the following website, no registration is necessary and it only takes two clicks to pick "Stargazer" from the band list on the right and then push the "Vote" button: www.storaasfestivalen.no/loqalscene. MARK SLAUGHTER JOINS NELSON 20TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR: (Nashville, TN) June 7, 2010 – Celebrity rockers Matthew & Gunnar Nelson announced multi-platinum rock star frontman and lead guitarist Mark Slaughter (Slaughter, Vinnie Vincent Invasion) will join their band Nelson as lead guitarist for the NELSON 20th Anniversary Tour. Nelson is celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the release of their international multi-platinum debut classic album "After The Rain". Nelson will headline several upcoming major rock festival events including the M3 Rock Festival in Columbia, MD on June 19; Thunder Mountain RockFest in Sawyer, ND July 9; and The FireFest in Nottingham, England U.K. Oct. 31 as part of the Nelson 20th Anniversary Tour. "Mark Slaughter has widely been acknowledged worldwide as one of the best rock singers in the business for decades…but not enough people know what a fine lead guitarist Mark is, and always has been. This tour is going to change that," said Gunnar Nelson. "NELSON is lucky to have such an amazing addition to our band for the 20th Anniversary Tour. It's definitely going to ROCK!" "It's great to be back touring live with Nelson," said Matthew Nelson. "We're thrilled to have Mark Slaughter joining us onstage for these incredible rock festivals – M3, Thunder Mountain, FireFest and to connect with the fans who love melodic rock music. The FireFest will be the first time ever Nelson has performed in the U.K." Mark Slaughter is probably best known as the lead front man and guitarist for the successful rock metal group bearing his own name, Slaughter, which sold in excess of five million records in the 1990s touring worldwide to sold-out arenas. Best known for MTV / VH1 #1 hits "Fly to the Angels" and "Up All Night". Mark also had a #1 hit "Love Kills" with the band Vinnie Vincent Invasion that was featured on the film soundtrack for Wes Craven's "Nightmare on Elm Street" in 1986. Nelson has a new album, The Blond Leading the Blond coming out soon on Frontiers Records. Artistically, it will be a seamless follow up to the "After the Rain" album. Matthew and Gunnar Nelson are the twin sons of Rock'n'Roll Hall of Famer Ricky Nelson, and grandsons of '50s TV icons Ozzie & Harriet Nelson. When Nelson first hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with "(Can't Live Without Your) Love and Affection" which they wrote and perform, it landed the Nelson family in the Guinness Book of World Records as the only family in entertainment history with (3) three generations of #1 hitmakers! Mark Slaughter joins the Nelson 20th Anniversary Tour kicking off with the M3 Rock Festival this month at the Merriweather Post Pavillion in Columbia, MD June 19th. In addition to performing with Nelson on lead guitar, Mark will also perform as a solo artist opening for Nelson at the Mohegan Sun Wolf Den on June 26. Upcoming Nelson 20th Anniversary Tour Dates Include: June 19 M3 Rock Festival Columbia, MD June 26 Mohegan Sun Uncasville, CT July 9 Thunder Mountain RockFest Sawyer, ND July 17 Suzhou International Music Festival Shanghai, China July 23 Midwest Rockfest Wichita, KS Oct 31 The FireFest Nottingham, England U.K. Nelson Billboard Hot 100 hit singles include: "(Can't Live Without Your) Love and Affection", "After the Rain", "More Than Ever", "Only Time Will Tell" and "(You Got Me) All Shook Up". For more information & tour dates, please visit the official Nelson website at www.NelsonKicksAss.com. RATT CANCEL UK APPEARANCES: New York, NY: Ratt have been forced to cancel their upcoming European tour dates. Vocalist Stephen Pearcy will be undergoing urgent hernia surgery this week. The band regrets missing the European dates on the heels of the release of their first album in eleven years, Infestation, which enjoyed a high chart debut in European territories. Ratt shares this disappointment with all their European fans who planned to attend the shows at Sweden Rock, Sauna Open Air Festival, UK Download, Hellfest, Grasspop and Gods of Metal as well as their other dates. The band is looking into rescheduling as many of the shows as possible. Pearcy's doctors anticipate a full recovery in time for Ratt's North American touring schedule, which includes a run with The Scorpions, beginning in July and running through September. Ratt drummer Bobby Blotzer posted this meessage online last week: "Ratt have been forced to cancel their upcoming European tour at this time, due to vocalist Stephen Pearcy having to undergo urgent surgery on his hernia. The surgery cannot be postponed. The band regrets missing these European shows and would like to extend their apologies to fans. Trust me, we're fking waaaay bummed on this. We played night before last the last show before going, he was going to do it, but it popped out. I saw it, pretty gross. I am so bummed to no be leaving tomo as planned." In a follow-up post from Bobby, he confirms the band will be ready to go for their scheduled US Tour Dates. MELODIC BRIEFS: Great sounding sneak peak audio from the Glenn Hughes/Joe Bonamassa/Derek Sherinian/Jason Bonham band Black Country Communion can be seen/heard at: bccommunion.com. The album is out September 21. Vain are currently in the studio recording their new album to be released on 24. September 2010 by Music Buy Mail. Working title is: Hot Stage Lights. On June 8th, "Rock Ready", the single from the Crown Of Thorns CD Faith, will be available as a Rockband download: au.xboxlive.ign.com/articles/109/1094817p1.html. Dana Key of DeGarmo & Key passed away last week at the age of 56. DeGarmo & Key were one of the bigger names of Christian hard rock/AOR music in the 80s. R.I.P. Dana. The release date for Iron Maiden's new studio album The Final Frontier is now confirmed for Monday 16th August. The new album pictured here features artwork illustrated by Melvyn Grant and, to mark the occasion, the band have made special arrangements for one new album track 'El Dorado' to be made available Worldwide as a FREE digital download MP3 with immediate effect - www.ironmaiden.com.   7TH HEAVEN JUKEBOX - 500 ORIGINAL SONGS: Jukebox is a MASSIVE 500+ all original song boxset of songs we have written, recorded and/or played in the 25 years 7th heaven has been around. This box set is a great musical journey thru different styles of music. We do not think there has been another band to date that has released this many originals at one time. This could break a world record! Jukebox has a bunch of guest singers as well as featuring your favorite members. All songs have been written by at least one member of 7th heaven in the 25 year history. Some songs are brand new, some are older but had never been released, all are fresh new recordings. This product will be available in 5 formats; · 1 - A box set of traditional CD's (about 20-25). The box set contains a bonus disk of the original MP3's of demos as they were written and recorded over the last 25 years. This bonus data disk is only available in the full CD box-set. · 2 - A data DVD with all the songs as MP3's. · 3 - A flash drive with all the songs as MP3's. · 4 - The internet: i-Tunes, Amazon, NTD Records store and 7thheavenband.com. · 5 - A limited edition Apple iPod with the entire catalog on it. Look for a complete listing of all songs on our website with full production notes and credits, as well as writing credits, who is performing on each track, all the lyrics to every song. This section of the website will be done this summer. Jukebox will be available mid-summer. Beginning June 1st look for songs to be posted on 7thheavenband.com for your previewing pleasure! Look for these very special products at the merch table and online in July. The price of this product will be very low, as we want our music to be heard by everyone. We hope you all pick a copy of this amazing product.   FRONTIERS RECORDS OFFERS LATEST YOUTUBE PROMO:   SWEDISH IDOL DOES MODERN MELODIC: 2009 Swedish Idol winner Erik Gronwall has released his new solo album - his debut album of all original material, with songs contributions from Joey Tempest, Nicke Borg, Jörgen Elofsson, Paul Stanley and Andreas Carlsson. Check out the very slick modern pop/melodic rock release at: www.erikgronwall.se. Track Listing: Take me on, Uphill climb, Try, Stay, Crash and burn, Destinatino anywhere, When you fall, Timeless, Breathe in breathe out, Somewhere between a rock and a hard place, Walls are coming down, In spite of me.   RICHIE KOTZEN POSTS ABOUT UK GIG CANCELLATIONS: Richie Kotzen has posted in regards to his UK gig cancellations: "I am confused, shocked, and embarrassed to have learned less than 24 hours ago via e mail that the UK agency known as Fablusis Promotions (www.fablusis.co.uk) has cancelled my 3 UK shows roughly one week prior to my departure for the United Kingdom. I had absolutely no say in this decision whatsoever a...nd am equally as shocked as all of you. I learned about this late last night while making a connection in Houston. The e mail came through on my iphone as I was boarding a flight to Los Angeles. Based on the jovial relationship my band and the partners had on the last tour I was convinced their e mail was a joke and responded accordingly. Clearly now today I learned it is no joke. At this point my manager and I are collecting as much info as possible in an effort to comprehend why the partners at Fablusis came to this careless decision without first discussing it with us. My number one concern is that all purchasers are refunded one hundred percent. The notion of canceling a show has never crossed my mind as I am packed and ready to go perform. I have been playing live in front of paid audiences since 1985 (Jesus I'm old!) and actually remember doing a gig in 87 where I was throwing up in a bucket at the side of the stage (living up to my German last name). I would need to be in a hospital bed or god forbid a loved one in one for me to consider a cancellation. Again, I am deeply sorry for any inconvenience this has caused. I can only assure you that this was completely out of my control and that we are already trying to figure out a way to make this up to you all. Please stay tuned...Sincerely, Richie Kotzen." JOE LYNN TURNER PERFORMS FOR THE SCHOOL OF ROCK: Students attending the School Of Rock programs in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania will have an opportunity to share a studio and stage with legendary rock singer/guitarist Joe Lynn Turner, when he serves as guest professor and performer with the All-Stars at three locations in June: Downington PA 6/17, Bergen County, NJ 6/18 and New York City 6/19. Included in the set list for the shows, the students and Turner will perform a tribute to his former Rainbow band mate who recently passed away, Ronnie James Dio. Turner's career highlights in the heavy metal/rock world include performing and/or recording with Rainbow, Bob Daisley and Phil Soussan (Ozzy Osbourne), Brian Johnson (AC/DC), Yngwie Malmsteen and Deep Purple. Turner excitedly agreed to take on the role of guest professor, saying "I wish there was a School of Rock when I was growing up...what a fantastic idea! I wanted to work with the students way before this but my touring schedule did not allow, so I am so excited to have this opportunity to rock out and share my experience. It will be a blast!!" Tickets for the three shows are $5.00 for School of Rock members and $10.00 for general admission at the door. Thursday June 17: School of Rock 478 Acorn Lane Downingtown, PA 19335 610-518-7625 Showtime: 7:00pm Friday June 18: School of Rock 31 Schrieffer Street South Hackensack, NJ 07606 201 342 8314 Showtime: 7:00pm Saturday June 19: Crash Mansion 199 Bowery Street, NY, NY 10002 212-982-0740 Showtime: 5:00pm About School of Rock: School of Rock is the national leader in music education for kids. Our mission is to inspire kids to rock on stage and in life. Our proprietary performance-based curriculum teaches kids to play rock music in a unique and interactive way, which is changing the way kids learn to play music across America. Professional musicians teach students of all levels, developing both their music skills and confidence. School of Rock operates 58 schools in 23 states and has developed an aggressive growth strategy seeking franchise partners throughout the United States. For more information about School of Rock, please visit www.SchoolofRock.com. For more information about Joe Lynn Turner, log on to: www.joelynnturner.com. BACK TO WORK: A bunch of e-mails asking where the updates are. I'll have to make my vacation post a little bigger next time!! But...I'm back at work now and no sign of any further breaks until the end of the year. I have a bunch of stuff to get updated, done and out there. News on all soon... Will catch up on e-mail and news updates this week before launching into some big news next week. As always - watch for breaking news/info and a little gossip and random commentary via the MelodicRock Twitter and MR Facebook pages.

 

 

Saturday, May 29, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS ARTIST NEWS: Pretty Maids new album "Pandemonium" released in Europe on Frontiers Records entered the national charts in the following countries: Denmark #15, Switzerland #63, Sweden # 45, Germany # 85. Congratulations to everyone for the hard work! Extreme "Take us Alive" entered the official Billboard Music DVD charts in the USA at # 23. This marks the first direct chart entry of a Frontiers release on the US market, just about 1 year after the inception of the operations. Asia "Omega" and Extreme "Take Us Alive" CD have both entered the top 100 indie charts in the USA still on Frontiers Records. Congratulations to the US team and thank you to all the fans! Jorn Lande has recently posted this statement in response to the comments on the release of his forthcoming album "Dio": "I am overwhelmed by all the positive response regarding "Song for Ronnie James", and all the warm comments I have received from all around the world. It means a lot to me that you have embraced this song as something coming from the heart, and I'm truly grateful. In just a few days more than 100.000 people have viewed the video on the internet, and the number is still rising... Many people are too busy trying to reinvent the wheel, forgetting the talent, quality and originality of the people that paved the way, like Ronnie James Dio. My intentions for writing "Song for Ronnie James" was to bow down and pay respect to one of the greatest, most influential and unique artists the world has ever known. When Ronnie passed away so sudden, I wasn't sure whether or not the release of the song should be postponed for a while, but we decided to proceed with the release of the song as planned. "Song for Ronnie James" was written before Ronnie got sick last year, and it makes me sad to know that he never got to hear it. Without Ronnie's presence, I would not have become the artist I am today. It's hard holding back the tears when reading all your wonderful comments, and once again I thank all of you for your support and recognition. Ronnie James Dio lost his battle against cancer, but we must continue to fight this disease. Medical researchers are doing progress every day, and they need our help. You can help World Cancer Research Fund International by following the link below. I urge you all to contribute in any way you can, your help will make a difference". WebLink: www.wcrf.org. On the same subject, Frontiers Records President Serafino Perugino released the following statement: "Frontiers and Jorn agreed on the production of the Dio album in early 2009. I loved the concept as Jorn is the best example of a singer that could inherit the great legacy from Ronnie James Dio. The album was delivered to Frontiers in early spring and we decided, thanks to Thomas Tjader's great work, to shoot a videoclip in very early may in order to make it within the deadlines for the album launch. The release date of the album was decided in march and the presale for certain territories started even before the communication of Dio's passing, which of course caught us by surprise when the wheels were already in motion. We join in Jorn's plea for the contribution to the World Cancer Research Fund and we look forward to honour with dignity the memory of one of the greatest singers ever in Hard Rock music. May he rest in peace". Enjoy now "Song for Ronnie James" on youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEtyaC6ltQg. Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of Melodic Rock Fanzine. The 38th release of the label's successful magazine is available for free all over the world through record shops, mailorders and every fine dealer carrying the Frontiers Records releases. This new issue includes reviews and interviews of Vince Neil, Y&T, Pretty Maids, Vanden Plas, Primal Fear,Skill In Veins, Triosphere, Shinig Line, Grand Illusion, Drive, She Said, Masterplan, John Waite, Triumph... and more! Electronic readable version of the magazine is available on the Frontiers official site and here. Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the worldwide Digital Only release of Revolution Renaissance "Ep" on June 2nd 2010. When Timo Tolkki decided to leave Stratovarius, the finnish band that was able to bring back into the spotlight the style of Neoclassic Hard Rock and Metal in the late 90's, the entire scene was took by storm by the release of Revolution Renaissance debut album "New Era" in June 2008. Timo wanted to start up a brand new band that he saw as a the logical progression of the Stratovarius legacy. To launch Revolution Renaissance he opted to call some special guest on vocals including Edguy and Avantasia singer Tobias Sammet and former Helloween singer Michael Kiske, along with Pasi Rantanen. The lineup on the album was completed by Mirka Rantanen on drums, Pasi Heikkilä on bass and Joonas Puolakka on keyboards. Tolkki originally composed all the songs included on the debut album for Stratovarius, but after he left, he thought he needed to get the songs he wrote out anyway. This EP goes back to that tumultuous period in Tolkki's life and presenting the album track "Heroes", three songs in acoustic versions, one song in the version sung by Tobias Sammet as opposed to the original vocals appeared on the album from Pasi Rantanen and offers as a special gift three original Stratovarius demo versions of the songs that ended up on the Revolution Renaissance album. Revolution Renaissance "Ep" tracklisting includes: Heroes (album version); I Did It My Way (Acoustic Remix); Angel (Acoustic Remix); Keep The Flame (Acoustic Remix); We Are Magic (Tobias Sammet version); Last Night On Earth (Stratovarius original demo); Revolution Renaissance (Stratovarius original demo); Heroes (Stratovarius original demo). The Ep can be purchased via i-Tunes, eMusic, Amazon, Spotify, Napster, Nokia and other fine digital shops.

 

 

Friday, May 28, 2010

ROCK CANDY'S JUNE RELEASES AVAILABLE NOW: These releases are available immediately from the Rock Candy website (www.rockcandyrecords.com) for a discounted price of £11.99 each ending June 15. Export 'Contraband' CANDY073 / Anomalies are two a penny in rock music but none are more puzzling than the facts behind Export's 1984 debut album 'Contraband'. Released exclusively in the US, on the hugely powerful Epic record label, it came as something as a surprise to find out that this was in fact the work of an obscure British four piece rock band from Liverpool, a group who had barely made an impact locally let alone internationally. Scratch beneath the surface and you'll find some intriguing detail. They were formed by guitarist/song writer Steve Morris and featured vocalist Harry Shaw, previously a member of highly touted early seventies rockers Hard Stuff, and were championed by - and signed to - Deep Purple's boutique label Purple Records. Following the release of a now highly collectable independently released album, Export were spotted and championed by sixties chart topper Dave Dee, who honed and shaped them in the form of tough yet melodic UK hard rock success stories such as Foreigner and Bad Company. Early demos were cut with none other than future Yes guitarist Trevor Rabin. Amazingly, the band's strident brand of melodic hard rock caught the ear of Epic Records in New York, resulting in the first of two albums for the label. 'Contraband' showcases a superb collection of sophisticated melodic hard rock from the hands of gifted song writers and first rate players. 24-bit remastering from original source tapes, 4,000 word essay about the making of the album and a new interview and full band involvement. Additional photos and memorabilia spread out over a 12 page full colour booklet. Track Listing: 1. Rockin' For You 2. Destiny 3. Spotlight 4. Roll Little Sister 5. Take My Hand 6. You Gotta Rock 7. Rough Diamond 8. On The Run 9. Stay. Export 'Living In The Fear Of The Private Eye' CANDY074 / Export defied all expectations by signing to the hugely influential US based Epic Records, whilst remaining virtually unknown in not only their home town but also throughout the entire UK. Not that the deal was undeserved; far from it. Their brand of melodic yet riff-driven hard rock found the band being lauded alongside similar, and huge selling, practitioners of the art such as Foreigner, Journey and Survivor. 'Living In The Fear Of The Private Eye', originally released in 1985, was the bands second album for the Epic label. Boasting cool song writing co-credits (including master of the art Bob Halligan Jnr.), and recorded in Philadelphia by seasoned producer Lance Quinn (Bon Jovi, Lita Ford), it presses all the right buttons on the catchy-yet-rugged melodic rock seismograph. The music is loud yet completely accessible and chock full of catchy hooks and expressive vocals courtesy of seasoned vocalist Harry Shaw. Despite Export's valiant efforts, Epic Records dropped the ball, allowing this exceptional slice of tough-guy AOR to fall flat on its face in a market that was, actually voracious for product. Truly, this is one album that should never have been allowed to slip between the cracks. Fortunately guitarist Steve Morris would continue the good fight by going on – by way of a high profile collaboration with Ian Gillan - to form underground AOR favourites Heartland and Shadowman. Track Listing: 1. Living In The Fear Of The Private Eye 2. No Escape 3. Runnin' Back (For More) 4. Airwaves 5. You Make Me Wanna 6. Closer To You 7. Tear Me Apart 8. Summer Nights 9. Can't Say No.   xx IRON MASK CONFIRMED FOR GRASPOP: Iron Mask have been confirmed to appear on the bill at one of Europe's most prestigious metal festivals - Graspop in Belgium. The band will be appearing onstage on Saturday 26th June 2010. Full information on the festival can be found at: www.graspop.be. The band who have seen their third album Shadow Of The Red Baron receive superb praise worldwide are also in the process of putting together a "Barock Heroes" tours later in 2010 with At Vance and label mate Joe Stump. WebLinks: www.iron-mask.com / www.dushanpetrossi.com. July 2010 Is "Guitar Virtuoso Month" - To celebrate the release of new albums from world acclaimed guitar virtuosos George Bellas and Alex Masi on July 16th, Lion Music are celebrating Guitar Virtuoso Month in July 2010. Full details on these 2 new monster guitar releases to come next week. As part of "Guitar Virtuoso Month" the whole of July will see new exclusive interviews with guitarists on the labels roster posted frequently. These will tie in with special offers on releases from the LM store and a whole host of other goodies to look out for. To make sure you don't miss out on any of the action check back at www.lionmusic.com regularly or by joining the LM Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/pages/Lion-Music-Record-Label/344149693292 where frequent updates on the latest events will be posted. VENICE HEADLINES ANNUAL ARTS FOUNDATION BENEFIT: Next Saturday, June 5th, Venice will headline their annual Artists for the Arts Foundation benefit concert in Santa Monica, CA. Joining them this year will be special guests Curt Smith from Tears for Fears, Colin Hay from Men at Work, and Fee Waybill from The Tubes. They'll be accompanied by student musicians, including a full orchestra made up of High School kids. This will be one of your last opportunities to catch Venice performing live before three of their singers head off as backing musicians for Roger Waters' "The Wall" world tour. 100% of the ticket proceeds go to help fund arts programs in the Santa Monica-Malibu school district. Which means that your ticket cost is a tax write-off! Tickets can be purchased at www.smmef.org. Here's a clip from last year's Artists for the Arts Foundation concert, featuring last year's headliner, Billy Idol: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKLyaQ4pai0. ASIA'S SINGLE "AN EXTRAORDINARY LIFE" CHOSEN TO PROMOTE HIT NBC SHOW AMERICA'S GOT TALENT: Hollywood, CA (May 27, 2010) - Asia's critically acclaimed rock track "An Extraordinary Life," was chosen as the soundtrack for promotional spots announcing the 2010 season of America's Got Talent. This show is among the most popular entertainment reality shows of all time. Last season the show peaked at the #1 position in overall viewership. America's Got Talent producers specifically sought out the rights to use the famed Asia song, which was written by members John Wetton and Geoff Downes. The track was recorded shortly after Wetton survived open heart surgery, in 2007. The song celebrates "carpe diem": each person's ability to seize each day, living life to the fullest. The promotional spots for America's Got Talent featuring "An Extraordinary Life," begin airing on NBC in prime time, Wednesday, May 26th. English band Asia recently released OMEGA, their fifth album since 1982's multi-platinum world best-selling debut, and the third release since reuniting in 2006. The band will launch a new North American tour in August, 2010. The already well-received album Omega is distributed by Frontiers Records (www.frontiers.it). EMI released Asia's best-selling album Phoenix [under license from Frontiers Record], containing the hit "An Extraordinary Life". Both albums are available at www.amazon.com and other fine retailers. The original members of Asia are rock n' roll superstars Geoff Downes (keyboards), Steve Howe (guitars), Carl Palmer (drums) and John Wetton (lead vocals and bass). More about the band can be found at www.originalasia.com. INTRODUCING MINUETUM: 7Hard is proud to announce the signing of Minuetum, for the release of their debut album entitled "Haunted Spirit". The album, featuring Jason Mercury (ex-Outloud) on Guitars, and Ignacio Lopez (Seliger, Lord Kraven) on Bass and also Bob Katsionis (Firewind, Revolution Renaissance, Outloud) as a guest musician on guitars. The album is produced by Bob Katsionis (Firewind, Outloud, Revolution Renaissance) and mixed & mastered by Timo Tolkki (ex- Stratovarius, Revolution Renaissance), will be released in Europe on 02. July 2010. The album: The new Minuetum album is a classic keyboard based Power Metal album highly influence by Scandinavian power metal band like Stratovarius and Sonata Arica. All songs are based on the keyboard melodies of founding member and main composer Dimitris Melidis, a combination of neoclassical keyboard melodies with heavy and fast rhyme and lead guitars, typical power metal double bass-drums and atmospheric elements. Tracklisting: 01. Sky Minuet 02.The Dark Half 03.Tribe Is Calling 04.Follow Us 05.Key To Glory 06. Hero Devine 07.Time To Fly 08.The Ghost King 09.Into The Night 10. Eternal Twilight. Credits: Dimitris Zaharopoulos – Vocals, Jason Mercury – Guitars, Ignacio Lopez – Bass, Dimitris Melidis – Kayboards, Piano, Nick Parotidis – Drums, Bob Katsionis – Guitars (guest musician). Check: www.myspace.com/minuetum and www.7hart.de for all news and pre-release information.   xx MUSICBUYMAIL SUPPORTS MAN AGAINST THE WORLD: Music Buy Mail is supporting Paul Logue of multinational melodic metal band Eden's Curse with the promotion of their new digital charity single Man Against The World. 100% of the profits being donated towards two homeless charities, namely www.shelter.org.uk and www.feedthechildren.org in the USA. We would ask you to support Paul with his great idea to make it successful! Download via: www.musicbuymail.eu. GIL MOORE: TRIUMPH WAS "A LAS VEGAS PIT BAND OF MUTANT HOSE HEADS": Triumph was one of the prototypical arena rock bands of the Seventies and Eighties, scoring a string of hits including "Magic Power", "Spellbound" and "Fight The Good Fight" and wowing crowds with its spectacular stage show. In a recent interview with Long Live Rock on Blog Talk Radio, drummer/singer Gil Moore recalled that while the fans always loved the band and have supported it for decades, Triumph had a sometimes rocky relationship with rock critics. "I don't think they totally pummeled us. It was kind of fifty-fifty. Rolling Stone magazine really hated us," Moore recalled with a laugh. "They labeled us 'a Las Vegas pit band of mutant hose heads', which is my favorite quote of all time. Sometimes you'd be doing an interview in a small town, and they didn't have the budget for an entertainment writer, so the lady that did the gardening column would be interviewing you, and she'd say, 'Well, tell us, Mr. Moore, how would you describe Triumph? What type of band are you?' And I would say, 'Ma'am, we are a Las Vegas pit band of mutant hose heads.' It was a perfect answer." "We had a lot of critics that would rag on because our production was so large and our show was so theatrical," Moore said. "That was their whole thing, it was anti-big and pro-small. We got nailed by the same critics that didn't like bands of the Pink Floyd, Who-style, big over-the top show. I'm sure they were slamming Van Halen and KISS and those types of bands, but we just ignored them. Ultimately the critics don't control what you do, right? The fans do." Triumph fans have plenty to be happy about with the release of a new Greatest Hits package featuring a cross-section of the band's hit career, completely transferred to digital and completely re-mixed from original source tapes. Triumph's Greatest Hits: Remixed also features a DVD and all-new liner notes, making it the ultimate package for Triumph fans. For more information on Triumph visit www.triumphmusic.com. To listen to Gil Moore's interview on Long Live Rock visit: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/05/25/interview-with-drummer-gil-moore-of-triumph-from-long-live-rock. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: The CD Showcase has been updated with previews of the following new albums: Vince Neil, Vanden Plas, Primal Fear Live (all Frontiers Records, June 4 release), 8 Point Rose (Escape Music, June 25 release), Skill In Veins (Avenue Of Allies, out now), and Mastercastle, Day Six, Section A and Pangea (all Lion Music). Check out showcases now. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated - new Video Clips once again - Auras - Beauty Of Dreams, Crashdiet - Generation Wild, Pretty Maids - Little Drops Of Heaven, Vince Neil - Tattoos And Tequila, Wig Wam - Do You Wanna Taste It, Y&T - I'm Coming Home and Grand Design - Air It Out. The other addition is a new live show that members will just have to discover for themselves! MR-X Membership Details. A LITTLE BREAK BEFORE THE MADNESS: I realize there has been some down time in recent weeks with MRF2 etc...but I will ask for one last time out. I had some family vacation time booked as I knew after MRF2 we'd all need, it. So next week - no updates. I'll be back Tues 9th/Wed 10th with the next update. Time to recharge before the busiest 6 months in MelodicRock.com history! Those looking for MRF2 T-Shirts will have the chance to purchase from that time and I'll also have some updates about upcoming compilations and MelodicRockRecords news plus new Reviews, a Release Dates update and maybe even the 2009 MelRock Awards (for those still interested!).

 

 

Thursday, May 27, 2010

AOR/METAL HEAVEN ARTIST UPDATES: The awaited follow up to Sister Sin's 2008 critically acclaimed debut Switchblade Serenades has arrived! - True Sound of the Underground marks the start of a new decade, filled with punishing rhythm section, streetwise lyrics, piercing guitars and that trademark metal siren behind the microphone you just can't deny! After 1 and a half year of heavy touring all over Europe and North America with a wide variety of acts from Arch Enemy to Motörhead, Sister Sin has become a vicious live act and have truly refined their unique blend of early 80´s heavy metal and rock to an even more hard hitting, determined machine. -The injection of new blood and attitude to the genre attracted attention all around the world last year and earned Sister Sin a spot on the videogame Rock Band followed by their first single "On Parole" getting serious airplay on American radio as well as the video being rotated at MTV Music choice and on several episodes of MTV´s "the real world". "True Sound of the Underground" picks up right where "Switchblade Serenades" left off and charismatic front woman Liv adds: "Our band is not doing some kind of retro, retread bullshit; this is a serious testament to the raucous spirit of true heavy metal and Rock n' Roll. We're here to raise some hell…get into it!" The album contains the upcoming singles "Outrage" and the fast paced title track" Sound of the Underground" as well as the tribute song "Beat em´ Down", dedicated to the late, great Gothenburg boxing champ Ingemar "Ingo" Johansson. True Sound of the Underground is produced and mixed by Henrik Edenhed (Dead By April, Robyn, Lambretta etc) and recorded at the legendary EMI studio in Stockholm. Tracklist: 1. Sound of the Underground, 2. Outrage, 3. Better Than Them, 4. 24/7, 5. Heading for Hell, 6. I Stand Alone, 7. Built to Last, 8. The Devil I Know, 9. Times Arent A-Changing, 10. Nailbiter, 11. Beat Em Down. Soundfiles in advance: 24 7 / Outrage / SOTU WebLinks: www.sistersin.com / www.myspace.com/sisterssin.   xx AOR Heaven's Grand Design got a new video clip ready in order to promote their current album "Time Elevation". The track is called "Air It Out". www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lig_dHIpt60. More about Grand Design: www.myspace.com/granddesigner. Metal Heaven signed Norwegian band Ken's Dojo, the solo effort of guitarist, song-writer and producer Ken Ingwersen (Rags, Street Legal) for a release in late August 2010. This album includes guest appearances by Glenn Hughes (ex-Deep Purple), Ken Hensley (ex-Uriah Heep), Michael Eriksen (Circus Maximus), Nils K. Rue (Pagans Mind), Chesney Hawkes, Tommy La Verdi (ex-21 Guns), Eirikur Hauksson aka Eric Hawk (ex-Artch), Truls Haugen (Circus Maximus), Morty Black (ex-TNT), Ole Devold (Tritonus), Aslak Johnsen (Mindtech), Jon Rydningen (Dream Police) and more. The album was mastered by Björn Engelmann (Rammstein, Europe, Cher). More on this release soon! On the web: www.kensdojo.com. INTRODUCING LA FAMIGLIA SUPERSTAR: Emmeciesse Music Publishing and Heart Of Steel Records are very pleased to announce the release on CD of the debut album: La Famiglia Superstar. La Famiglia Superstar is a super band comprised of some of the greatest musicians of the hard rock scene! On vocals, talented and award winning Terry Ilous (XYZ), also known for his work with members of Black Sabbath, Stevie Wonder, AC/DC, Rod Stewart). On bass the extraordinary and magical Marco Mendozza (Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, David Lee Roth, Ted Nugent), acclaimed by many as one of the greatest bassists of his generation. On drums, world renowned groove master drummer Atma Anur (Tony Macalpine, David Bowie, Richie Kotzen). And last but not least on guitar, the amazing new Italian guitar hero, Steve Saluto (a recording studio genius). The self titled album produces the alchemy of 4 brilliant artists, working together to capture the soul of the listener. From the opening track, "Never Enough," a pure driving rock song with a super catchy melody that will please all Melodic Hard Rock fans, to the various paths of experimentation, (the smearing colored funk) "What We Gonna Do," to the more modern rock track "Can U. Tell Me" which also gives us a compelling refrain. Airy sounds take over in the quiet "I Come Around," which then turn into the profound and hopeful,"I Miss You," a pure radio hit song. In this amazing and unpredictable album, you will hear what is probably the finest rendition ever recorded of the classic Whitesnake song "Here I Go Again", and enjoy a total change of pace in the acoustic song "Closer". This remarkable album, ends with an in-your-face instrumental track called "Vision", full of overflowing riffs and groove. La Famiglia Superstar delivers a unique album that embraces the past and creates a sound that mixes Melodic Rock, Funk and contemporary sound. This will agreeably surprise the listener, as it does not follow the typical pattern expected by musicians of that caliber and history, and will take you on a journey where Groove, Harmonies and heavy guitars all blend in a harmonious sound.   FOREIGNER ON PURRFECT TIMING: Kelly Hansen and Jeff Pilson will be on Purrfect Timing this Friday, talking up the United In Rock tour and taking a little time to talk about Can't Slow Down and the summer shows. Purrfect Timing is heard live every Friday at 1pmCST / 7pm GMT on ARfm. Links: www.arfm.co.uk / www.purrfecttiming.com / www.foreigneronline.com. ANOTHER DIO TRIBUTE: In the Kingdom of Hesh this week will be a very special tribute to one of metal's greatest singers/frontman of all time Ronnie James Dio. Tune in for three hours of Heshtravaganza with King Hesh's "Dedication To Dio" show. "King Hesh" will play a "chronological tribute", starting with Ronnie's days in Rainbow, to Black Sabbath, then to his Dio project, and wrapping up with his time, with his Black Sabbath mates, in Heaven & Hell Join "King Hesh" this Friday (May 28) from 9pm-Midnight (PDT) / Midnight-3am (EDT) for his "Dedication To Dio" as the world of Hesh mourns and celebrates the icon known as Ronnie James Dio. The show can be heard live every Friday night on www.lvrocks.com, www.purerockradio.net, www.megarockradio.net, www.rocknationradio.com, and www.silverfoxradio.com. For more information on the show go to www.kinghesh.com. HELIX & BROKEN TEETH PREVIEW VIDEOS: Helix & Broken Teeth new videos featured on Rocknation TV Episode 51 along with Mad Margritt, Lizhard & Pleasure Maker. Also featured on this episode is west coast VJ Jeffrey Easton interviewing Duff Mckagan's Loaded and Halestorm. Rocknation is aired nationwide on Time Warner/Comcast Public Access and online at: www.rocknation.us. LIZZY BORDEN TO STOCKHOLM ROCK OUT: Lizzy Borden has been confirmed for the Stockholm Rock Out Festival, set to take place September 10-11 in Alvik Stockholm, Sweden. This will be the only Scandinavian show in 2010. Tickets are on sale now at: www.sthlmrockout.com. Over the past 2 years the Lizzy Borden "Appointment with Death Show" produced spectacular performances in 11 countries (from North America to Europe) and on the main stages of some of biggest festivals like, "Sweden Rock" (Sweden) "Bang Your Head" (Germany) "Kobetasonic" (Spain), and "Rocklahoma" (USA) all to rave reviews, unanimously declaring Lizzy Borden the hit of the festivals, 'comparing their show to a Kiss concert'. Get tour dates sent to your Email: Check out www.lizzyborden.com.

 

 

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

FRONTIERS TO RELEASE A RETROSPECTIVE ALBUM FROM TONY HARNELL & THE MERCURY TRAIN: Frontiers Records will release on July 2 in Europe and July 27 in the USA Round Trip, the debut album from Tony Harnell & The Mercury Train. This is a very special record: a stripped down, reinvented retrospective of Tony Harnell's past classics originally recorded with his previous bands TNT, Westworld and Starbreaker, with one brand new song Anywhere But Here recorded especially for this release. The idea of re-recording some repertoire classics came about after Tony performed some low key shows in New York in late 2008, with some talented and accomplished musicians that were not part of the Metal/Hard Rock scene. The desire was to breathe new life into the songs with new arrangements, key changes and added parts, it's like listening to songs you know in a whole new way. Frontiers Records President, Serafino Perugino liked the concept and in Harnell's own words "The idea was originally based on it being the usual cliché "acoustic" album. Well, for us hard rockers that usually means simply playing the songs pretty much as they were but with acoustic guitars. That's not exactly what I had in mind. If I was going to do this I was going to have some fun. I wanted to strip things down and see what would happen when musicians outside the hard rock community played my songs. That intrigued me. So, I gave all the guys the original album versions and then pretty much gave them carte blanche to reinterpret the songs. That meant key changes (cause you can't sing like a banshee when you strip things down, sounds silly), chord changes and even arrangement changes if the mood hit. I also wanted a semi-live vibe. What we ended up with is an album that honors the original songs with a little added spice, color, and above all…fun". At the end of 2008 Tony and the other musicians entered the studio for a marathon two-day recording session that was supposed to lead into a whirlwind mixing session and an immediate release. But immediately after the session Tony hit some rather intense personal bumps in the road and production stopped. Months later the album was quickly completed. "Recording this album was an extremely cathartic experience, allowing me to gently close the door to the past with love and gratitude and regain the pride I rightly deserve to have for these songs and for the years of my life I gave to the various periods when they were written" continues Tony. "This is in no way meant to erase, dismiss or compete with the incredible original recordings of these songs. This is just a little fun reinvention, a way to leave the past behind on my own terms. These are your songs as much as they are mine, some of you, like me, have all kinds of memories attached to them. My lyrics were, are and always will be filled with my experiences, struggles, hopes and dreams and my observations of the world around me. Hopefully you'll listen to these songs in a new way and hear them with new ears. I know I have". "Round Trip" final tracklisting includes: Somebody Told You; Intuition; Month Of Sundays; Lonely Nights; Shame; Northern Lights; Down To The River To Pray; Satellite; 10K Lovers; Uninvited; Ready To Fly; When I'm Away*; Song For Dianne; Anywhere But Here. * Bonus track The Mercury Train: Jason Hagen - Acoustic guitar and ukulele, Chris Foley - Electric guitar, Brandon Wilde - Bass and vocals, Brad Gunyon - Drums and percussion, Amy Harnell - Vocals and descant recorder. Special guest: Sandi Saraya on "Shame". Weblinks: www.tonyharnell.com / www.myspace.com/tonyharnellonline / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords. For live bookings of Tony Harnell contact: dovetonemusic@yahoo.com.   xx CINDERELLA, VINCE NEIL, TESLA AND OTHERS GET SHIPROCKED ON 2010 CRUISE: Ft. Lauderdale, FL (May 25, 2010) - Legendary rockers Cinderella, Vince Neil and Tesla headline the second installment of ShipRocked, the ultimate Rock n' Roll music fan experience at sea, November 11-14, 2010. Cinderella makes their ShipRocked debut, showcasing their raspy hard rock blues, while Motley Crue frontman Vince Neil returns to the seven seas with all the Crue and solo hits in tow. Not to be outdone, and by popular demand, California rockers Tesla return as the "passenger favorites" from 2009's maiden voyage. "ShipRocked 2010 will be wall-to-wall music for three days and nights, giving fans the rare opportunity to listen to and hang out with multiple generations of rock legends. With 14 acts performing on multiple stages onboard, there's enough music for whatever your mood desires," says promoter Alan Koenig of ASK4 Entertainment. Main support comes from platinum metalheads Drowning Pool and Sevendust, along with modern rock phenom 10 Years, southern metal boogie rockers Black Stone Cherry, and a rare appearance by the all-star super group HAIL!, which features band members from Megadeth, Dream Theater, Sepultura as well as Judas Priest/Yngwie Malsteen. In addition, the rock never lets up as The Letter Black, Aranda, Lynam, Broken Teeth, Niki Barr Band and Pianotarium bring up the stern of this floating festival. The setting is the MSC Poesia (Italy) one of the cruise industry's most acclaimed new vessels. It all begins in Fort Lauderdale, FL, visiting the premier Bahamian port, Nassau with a special stop at the pristine private island of Coco Cay Bay. Exuding her Italian roots, the Poesia features include the luxurious Aqua Spa, two pools, four Jacuzzis, a state-of-the-art cardio gym, salon, sushi bar, wine tasting bar, Teatro Carlo Felice, a beautiful, 3-level, Las Vegas-style theater, plus additional stages on deck and around the ship for both bands and passengers to enjoy all night long! Prices start at only $599 per person, double occupancy and include exclusive access to all ShipRocked concerts and special events, deluxe stateroom, meals, ship activities, ship entertainment and much, much more! Space is very limited so early booking is encouraged. In addition, a special charity auction of one-of-a-kind rock music memorabilia will be featured. All money raised will go towards cancer research, in honor of hard rock music legend Ronnie James Dio, who recently passed away. Tickets for ShipRocked are being sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and are only available at www.GetShipRocked.com or by calling 1-888-370-9680. RE-RECORDING SNARES TWO MORE ROCK NAMES: Alice Cooper has released a new EP of re-recorded classic via his web site -- The EP which features new recordings of 'School's Out', 'No More Mr Nice Guy'. 'Eighteen', 'Elected' and 'Welcome To My Nightmare'. You can download 'Elected' for free! www.alicecooper.com. Styx guitarist James "JY" Young has confirmed the track listing for Styx' upcoming album Regeneration. Speaking exclusively to journalist Doug Fox, JY said the album is "99 percent there," and will feature seven tracks. In addition to the new Tommy Shaw song "Difference in the World" (which has been available for free download at www.styxworld.com for a week or so now), Regeneration will feature new re-recordings of Styx classics "The Grand Illusion", "Come Sail Away", "Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)", "Crystal Ball", "Lorelei" and "Sing For The Day". Young says that re-recording these classic tracks was harder than it may appear. "When you go back and try to do it, you say, 'How DID we do that? What gear were we using and what gear was available for the engineer to use?'" The new recordings were also different from the originals in that modern technology allows bands to record in different locations. JY says the new tracks were recorded in at least eight different studios. Regeneration was intended for release already, but the guitarist says it has been delayed and will emerge very soon. "It would have been good if it had been completed before we got out on the road, but we didn't quite get there for a variety of reasons," he stated. "At some point, with every new thing that you create, there's a point where you have to say it's time to let go of this and it sounds pretty darn good," Though JY didn't pinpoint an exact release date, Styx recently posted a video to its official web site that said the album should be available in the summer of 2010. Though it's unconfirmed for now, rumor has it that Styx' fall tour dates will feature the band performing its classic albums The Grand Illusion and Pieces of Eight in their entirety. For more information please visit www.styxworld.com.

 

 

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

LION MUSIC NEWS - MINDSPLIT SIGN & JUNE 18 RELEASES: Lion Music are proud to announce the signing of progressive/hard rock band MindSplit to the labels roster. To celebrate the signing of MindSplit, May 21st 2010 sees a single and video release of the track NMe - Myself & I taken from the bands forthcoming debut album Charmed Human Art Of Significance (C.H.A.O.S.) which is set for release in the third quarter of 2010. View the video now at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDNHdVznGpU. Musically MindSplit is a mixture of Progressive Metal and Classical hard rock fronted by vocalist H.B. Anderson (Fire & Ice / Scudiero /Fatal Smile), guitarist Mathias Holm (solo artist), bassist Conny Payne (Madison / Alien), drummer Jon Skare and keyboardist Jonas Lidstrom. Their debut album C.H.A.O.S. is an enthralling concept album based on the discovery of H.B. Andersons great old great grandfather Xerxes Andersons Artificial Universe (a.k.a. Prof. Xandau 1807 ~ 1851) notes from his therapy sessions. Prof. Xandau was a very respected therapist during the first half of 19th century and had his sessions all over the world based in both Europe and the U.S. These notes are the solid ground to this project and are used to tell a true story about psychological thoughts and human behaviour. This story line is set to a musically accomplished and captivating release which will draw the listener in from the first listen. Full details on the album to be released soon. In the meantime check out the bands official websites for more information. WebLinks: www.mindsplit.se / www.myspace.com/mindsplitse.   xx Lion Music June 18 Releases: Mastercastle - Last Desire / The ultra powerful Italian metal outfit Mastercastle return on June 18th 2010 with their second album Last Desire. Led by the soaring vocals of Giorgia Gueglio, the gifted guitar work of Pier Gonella and the tight rhythmic interplay of bassist Steve Vawamas and drummer Alessandro Bissa, Mastercastle made a strong impression with their debut album; the 2009 release The Phoenix and are back with an even more impressive follow up. Last Desire takes a similar path to its predecessor yet sees the debuts neo-classical influences toned down a little and replaced with a straighter hard rock/metal sound making for a more rocking affair. The big riffs Pier Gonella is known for are here in all their glory and Giorgia Gueglio works her vocals into new areas on the new music, whilst the bass work and potent drumming are powerfully produced creating a thunderous sound. The straighter hard rock style of the album is represented by opener Event Horizon, Away and Cat House. Whilst the title track fuses a number of different elements from an almost thrash metal guitar riff to the hard rock edged chorus to make an original sound. Guitar fans will find a lot to enjoy in the instrumentals Las Serenissima and Space Trip. The former being a cover of the Italian ensemble piece Rondo Veneziano rearranged for rock guitar and sees the classical slant of the debut echoed. Whilst the former is a more traditional guitar instrumental fusing technical and melodic aspects that will appeal to all metal fans. The rest of the album focuses on strong heavy metal/hard rock with strong vocal melodies and memorable themes. Vocalist Giorgio Gueglio penned all the albums lyrics covering a variety of stories all based around the different meanings of the word desire. The title track is about the passion that lights between two individuals. In Will Spell the desire means hope, the hope of escaping from reality and the will to dream anyway. In the opening track Event Horizon there is the desire to cross the human borderline of reason. The songs tell about the general relativity, where event horizon is a boundary in space beyond which events cannot affect an outside observer. Its a point of no return that represents the curiosity of the man who wants to know everything new for him. In Scarlett the lyrics are based on meaning behind the film gone with the wind that represents the desire as the strength to go on between the pains and discomforts of war, where a combative women never looses her female charms. On Cat-house we can find 2 desires: the more turbid desire of a customer who turns to a prostitute to overcome the difficulties of life; and the desire of the prostitute that want to escape from that condition. Misr tells about the ingredients for magic or bewitched potions that responds to the desire of evocating far and unspoiled landscapes. All the lyrics are delivered with great strength and clarity from one of metal strongest new female vocalists. The majority of what would become Last Desire was written between May and September 2009. 3 songs were sent to Lion Music as demo of the new album and these saw the label offer a deal for the second album. Recordings then commenced at the end of November 2009 with mixing and mastering taking place in December 2009 with the album seeing release on June 19th 2010. Track Listing: 01. Event Horizon. 02. Misr. 03. Wild Spell. 04. Last Desire. 05. Away. 06. Space Trip. 07. Jade Star. 08. Great Heavens Climb. 09. Cat-House. 10. Toxie Radd. 11. La Serenissima. 12. Scarlett. Musicians: Giorgia Gueglio – Vocals, Pier Gonella – Guitar, Steve Vawamas – Bass, Alessandro Bissa - Drums. WebLink: www.myspace.com/mastercastle.   Day Six - The Grand Design / Lion Music are proud to introduce the signing and debut album from one of the most original new progressive metal bands of recent years - Day Six. Hailing from the Netherlands, Day Six are a first class powerful four piece who produce a mammoth sound of great scope and depth on their debut album The Grand Design. With a sound that combines elements from across progressive musics history, Day Six with The Grand Design' have come up with a unique take on the genre which is equal parts dark and light making great use of dynamics and textures. Comparisons could be made between a fusion of Pink Floyd, Rush, Porcupine Tree, Dream Theater and Opeth where colossal guitar riffs collide and intertwine with synthesized textures and enthralling vocals for a truly mesmerizing effect. Lyrically The Grand Design is a concept album which focuses on an extraterrestrial spaceship that has been found in Lake Vostok – Antarctica. The storyline is following five weather scientists who did this discovery and found out about the secrecy on Extraterrestrial contact on Earth. The elite government finds out about the scientists - and to prevent them from bringing out the truth on E.T. life, they are locked in psychiatric hospitals while agents try to erase their experiences from their memories. However, the scientists develop a way to communicate telepathically with each other and with the E.T. beings. One of the scientists is writing a diary – the song 'A Soul's Documentary' is about these writings. In this way, they try to bring out the truth to the world despite the plans of the government. Since forming in 2002, Day Six have become a mainstay on the live Dutch music scene and won two major competitions in the Netherlands: the Metal Battle and the Aardschok Metal Bash. As a result Day Six have grown to be one of the most well known progressive metal bands in the Netherlands and with the worldwide release of The Grand Design, Lion Music will introduce the band to a wider audience. Day Six – The Grand Design comprises of 9 tracks and clocks in at over 70 minutes and it set for release on Lion Music on June 18th 2010. Track Listing: 1. Massive Glacial Wall 2. Lost Identity 3. Castel Gandolfo 4. Inside 5. Fergus Falls 6. A Soul's Documentary 7. Age of Technology 8. 7th Sign 9. In the End... Musicians: Robbie van Stiphout - Guitars/ Vocals, Daan Liebregts – Drums, Nick Verstappen – Bass Guitar, Dolf van Heugten – Synths. Guest Musicians Female vocals by Linda Kessels, Maartje Imandt and Ellen Voermans. Saxophone on Lost Identity by Eric Berkers. WebLinks: www.day-six.com / www.myspace.com/daysixweb.   OSBOURNE TO RELEASE "SCREAM" VIA EPIC RECORDS ON JUNE 22ND: Ozzy Osbourne is set to release Scream on June 22nd via Epic Records, his first album in three years and 10th studio album overall. "Let Me Hear You Scream"--the album's first single--is already Top Five (#5) on the Mainstream Rock Chart and Top Ten (#9) on the Active Rock chart in only its second week on the charts. The fist-pumping anthemic song had its world premiere, during a prison riot scene, on "CSI: NY" Wednesday, April 14th. "Scream" was produced by Ozzy and Kevin Churko, both of whom did the same honors for Ozzy's 2007 worldwide million-seller Black Rain, the album. The multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer recorded most of the album at his Los Angeles home studio, The Bunker, and co-wrote all the songs, primarily with Churko. Notably, the album marks the first appearance of Ozzy's new guitar player, Gus G. Ozzy's band also features bassist Blasko, drummer Tommy Clufetos and keyboardist Adam Wakeman. Ozzy will also embark on an 18-month world tour (dates TBA) in support of "Scream." Also, all fans who purchase tickets to OZZFest at LiveNation.com through June 18th will receive an email with one unique download link per ticket for Ozzy's new album, "Scream" on June 21st, the day before the album is available in stores. OZZFest marks the first concerts in the U.S. in connection with the June 22 release of "Scream" (Epic Records), the OZZFest founder's first album in three years and 10th studio album overall. Tracklisting includes: "Let It Die" "Let Me Hear You Scream" "Soul Sucker" "Life Won't Wait" "Diggin' Me Down" "Crucify" "Fearless" "Time" "I Want It More" "Latimer's Mercy" "I Love You All". Check out the "Making Of Scream" video here: www.ozzy.com/makingofalbum. Listen to "Let Me Hear You Scream" streams here: release.theplatform.com/content.select?pid=kpfX7_VKyRgQhJwvpv9AOpkSkhMxTDHg&UserName=Unknown. For more information visit: www.ozzy.com / www.facebook.com/ozzyosbourne / twitter.com/OFFICIALOZZY.   Y&T DELIVER ON ALBUM LAUNCH GIG: Got this nice little bit of feedback in my in-box this morning from Steve in California: "I attended the Y&T record release party at the Fillmore in San Francisco on Saturday night. It was the most fun I've had at a show ever and I'd venture to say, the best concert I've ever seen. Y&T was my first concert when I was 13 (in '83) and is still one of my favorite bands and have seen them at least 20 times over the years. Dave Meniketti looked 20 years younger than just a few years ago. He dropped some weight, grew some hair and they sounded phenomenal! They aren't known for throwing cover tunes into their set, but when he busted into Rainbow in the Dark and said, "Long live Dio!" it was pure magic. Here's a clip from the show on Saturday night when they played it: www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5Cb6w7ok1c." FATAL SMILE FOR DIO: News from the guys in Swedish hard rockers Fatal Smile: "We would really appreciate if you could help us spreading the word about this awesome tribute song to support Dio's Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund and the fight against cancer! Two days ago Y sent me a piano ballad he wrote while saddened by the horrible tragedy of Ronnie's passing due to cancer. That night I wrote the lyrics and melody to the song "For the last in line". We decided to have it recorded and released in the name of Ronnie's new fund: "Ronnie James Dio Stand up and shout Cancer Fund". In the morning we recorded it and today it was mastered and released. iTunes and all other sites will follow. We have decided not to release the full version on Spotify, but it can be heard on YouTube as of tonight! I guess it's some kind of record, getting a song released a day after it's written... "Ronnie James Dio Stand up and shout Cancer Fund" is registered as owner of this song, and gets 100% of all sales! Buy it to Support his cause, the fight against cancer: www.klicktrack.com/sp/releases/fatal-smile/to-the-last-in-line / www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SeD_-HHPfo. MELODIC BRIEFS: Jamie Bumgarner wrote and performs his song "Prayer for Bret", in honour of Bret Michaels here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6fRqZd_3qc. Congrats to Bret for being announced the Celebrity Apprentice and making a courageous appearance live on the season final for the show yesterday. Curtis John Vito of the Melodic Rock band Snew will be live on-air on WMWX 88.9 in Cincinnati, OH on Wednesday at 1630 EDT promoting the band's new single "We Do What We Want". Info on the band is at www.snewyou.com and the station streams live at www.classxradio.com. Randy Jackson and Lillian Axe inducted into the Louisiana music hall of fame: vimeo.com/11828632. Last months Good Rats show in NYC is covered here: piercingmetal.com/wordpress/?p=3553. MICHAEL SCHENKER VIP TICKETS RELEASED: Los Angeles, CA - Legendary guitarist Michael Schenker has announced he will offer VIP Ticket Packages for his 30th Anniversary North American Tour. The packages offer concert attendees an opportunity to hang out with two of rock's legendary icons - Michael Schenker and Carmine Appice. VIP Packages also include admission to the show and soundcheck prior to the show; photo opportunities at soundcheck; tour bus send-off after the show; autographed posters; and each VIP Package recipient's name will be automatically entered in a contest/drawing for a Michael Schenker Dean Guitar; a Carmine Appice Aquarian Drumhead; and a Carmine Appice Signature Snare Drum. The VIP Ticket packages are limited to 10 per show, are sponsored by Dean Guitars, DDrum, The Michael Schenker Group, and Carmine Appice, and can be purchased for $250 at: www.serge.org/msgviptickets.htm. CLASSIC ROCK LEGENDS WISHBONE ASH RELEASE FIRST NEW SINGLE IN OVER 20 YEARS: 5/24/2010 - London, UK - After 20 plus years, UK classic rock legends Wishbone Ash have released a new single, "Reason To Believe", which is creating a huge buzz amongst the music press and fans of the band worldwide. The single is part of an EP that also features an album edit from the forthcoming CD and two superb remixes which stand out on their own. It is now available for download on iTunes. "Reason to Believe sums up what we are all about," says founding member and band leader Andy Powell, "both in terms of the ethos of the lyric and in the melodic nature of the song, which is itself enhanced by our classic twin lead guitar sound". Founded in England in 1969, Wishbone Ash has released more than 30 albums to date, and has been touted as one of the first dual-guitar rock bands. Rolling Stone magazine counted Ash guitarists Andy Powell and Ted Turner among the worlds top 20 best of all time. The groups 1972 classic release, Argus, was voted Album Of The Year by readers of UKs Melody Maker and NME. It was remixed and reissued in 2002 as a special 30th anniversary edition and consequently was the fastest selling reissue in MCAs history. Powells name is synonymous with the Gibson Flying V. Over the years, he has been prominently featured in such notable publications as Guitar, Guitarist and Vintage Guitar. He has also recorded with the likes of George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Stewart Copeland and Renaissance. In 2009 Wishbone Ash embarked on an intensive 6-month tour plan taking the band 'round to July 2010 in celebration of their 40th anniversary. The band will be performing three dates in South Africa (May 28, May 30, June 1). A USA West Coast tour is planned along with two June shows in Tokyo, Japan. For a complete list of tour dates and venues, visit www.wishboneash.com/tourdates . The new DVD Wishbone Ash 40 - Live in London was released in Europe on Oct. 10, 2009. This 40th anniversary show from Shepherd's Bush Empire was produced by RCN TV, the same team who made the highly acclaimed Wishbone Ash Live in Hamburg DVD. Recently a new Wishbone Ash compilation CD called Sometime World has been released on MCA Records. Andy Powell was recently interviewed on the Johnnie Walker Show on BBC Radio 2 for a special called 'Sounds of the '70s'. Powell was also interviewed by John Wilcox for Progsheet in which he discussed tracks from the legendary Wishbone Ash album Argus and can be accessed at www.progsheet1.hypermart.net/argus.html. For the latest news, tour dates, information and forums please visit the official Wishbone Ash website at www.wishboneash.com. In the UK the "Reason To Believe" single or EP can be downloaded at: itunes.apple.com/gb/album/reason-to-believe-ep/id369157364 / In the US download at: itunes.apple.com/us/album/reason-to-believe-ep/id369157364. If not an iTunes user "Reason to Believe" is available at many other stores: emubands.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2&Itemid=3. STEVE VAI PRESENTS: VAITUNES - THE MOON AND I: Steve Vai goes digital - "It's not uncommon for a musician to record more work than they release. In my case I have a digital ocean of snippets in various degrees of completion. Some are leftovers from assorted project recording sessions, projects that were never completed, sound check jams, demo snippets, etc. There are enough lonely unreleased notes in my world to fill an "infinity shelf." VaiTunes are tracks that are culled from this melodic abyss, brushed off, sometimes severely hosed down, and released as digital singles. These tracks may be specific to a particular project that has never had the chance to be a completed big picture, but now, with the advent of all this digital technology and distribution, it's possible to release a variety of tracks from a potential project without having to complete the whole project itself. Eventually, if there are enough tracks completed that fall into a precise endeavor, perhaps they will be compiled and released as a cohesive CD. In any event, it's a good way to release a constant stream of music. Although the plan is to continue to create whole, full-bodied CD releases, VaiTunes can serve as temporary pacifiers for some delectable melodies to be sucked through the ears and absorbed into the soul." -- Steve Vai. MASS SET TO KICK OFF "SEA OF BLACK" ATTACK!: Mass will be performing an acoustic set of songs from there latest release Sea of Black this Sunday May 30th at 11 :00 PM on WAAF 97.7 / 107.3 FM www.waaf.com The official CD release concert is set for Friday June 4th at the The Regent Theatre in Arlington, MA. This is only a 500 seat venue that will sell out! So get your tickets now! www.regenttheatre.com/events/mass.htm. Mass then rocks the M3 Festival on June 19 in Columbia, Maryland performing with such great artists as The Scorpions, Cinderella, Vince Neil, etc. Mass hits the stage at 3:00 PM sharp! m3rock.webs.com/apps/links/ More shows and events to be posted soon! Please visit the official MASS website at www.massrocks.com to pick up a signed copy of the brand new CD "Sea of Black" which has been receiving Rave reviews around the world! METHODS OF MAYHEM'S NEW ALBUM TITLE/RELEASE DATE REVEALED: "A PUBLIC DISSERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT": (New York, NY) - Tommy Lee has rocked every continent multiple times, sold millions of records with Motley Crue and on his own, done everything a musician dreams of doing, except he's never made a record with the entire world. The new Methods Of Mayhem album, now entitled A Public Disservicement Announcement, is set for release on September 21st and features Tommy Lee collaborating with the world. Lee commented, "When I founded Methods in 1999, the whole purpose of the band was to be all over the place. In keeping with that, this Methods isn't anything like the last one. There's no hip hop and there's no roster of guest stars. This time, it's me, my band, and the world." Please see below for the track listing for A Public Disservice Announcement. Tommy Lee and his team, including producer Scott Humphrey, singer-guitarist J3 and others, wrote and recorded the songs for the new album, then made the core components of each available for download on www.thepublicrecord.com to anyone who wished to add their playing or otherwise re-interpret the music however they saw fit. Lee listened to every single submission that was uploaded, chose the best, and integrated the actual audio tracks into the album's final cuts. Every single musician whose part was used is credited and thanked on the album. The song files were made available on The Public Record on October 5th, 2009. By the end of the submission period in February, 2010, the page was viewed over 1 million times and over 10,000 submissions were uploaded. What came back once the public got its hands on the raw ingredients was truly all over the map - just as Tommy Lee had hoped. The diverse submissions included techno tracks sent in from Japan, hand drum rhythms from India and searing guitar solos from as close to home as San Diego. Methods of Mayhem self-titled debut was released in 1999 and was certified RIAA Gold. The album featured Snoop Dogg, Kid Rock and Fred Durst among others. Methods Of Mayhem's set was a featured highlight of 2000's Ozzfest. A Public Disservice Announcement track listing: 1. Drunk Uncle Pete 2. Time Bomb 3. Louder 4. Fight Song 5. Blame 6. Two Ways 7. Talk Me Off The Ledge 8. Only One 9. All I Wanna Do 10. Back To Before 11. Party Instructions. GOOG GOO DOLLS GET DARKER ON NEW CD: The Goo Goo Dolls have debuted the first single from their upcoming new album, Something For The Rest Of Us, due out in July. The track, titled Home is a mid-tempo rock track from an album that bassist Robby Takac called 'a little dark' during an interview with Alternative Addiction last month. "This record's a little dark, but times are a little dark right now," Takac said. "It's about a glimmer of hope, and I feel like that really comes across on this record." "The tone of the record was very much guided by ourselves, and that made the process pretty organic," explained Takac who admitted the recording process for this album was much different than their previous session for Let Love In with producer Glen Ballard. "We had a little bit more control over what the record sounded like this time than we did the last time. And I am a big fan of our last record, I am not bashing it, but I think there was a lot of Glen Ballard's personality interjected into that record. I think this one is much more pure." Already touring behind their upcoming release, the band announced 18 more dates for their summer tour that will now run through the end of August. WebLink: www.alternativeaddiction.com.

 

 

Monday, May 24, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE "DIO", JORN'S OFFER TO THE MUSICAL LEGACY OF RJD: The Norse God of Metal. The leader of the renaissance of classic Hard Rock on its highest level. One of the most prolific and sought-after singers of today, whose vocal talent has reserved him a place amongst the greatest giants in the history of Rock. This is Jorn Lande and now he offers his talents to honour the musical legacy of Ronnie James Dio, with his new album aptly entitled Dio, to be released on Frontiers Records on July 2 in Europe and July 27 in the US. Handpicking some lesser known tunes of the Dio era, along with some of the true classics, Jorn offers a fine collection of songs that present the music of the Man and the Artist, with a unique twist. In Jorn Lande's own words: "Throughout the years I have had the privilege of  both meeting and working with many of the musicians that have inspired me on my musical journey. Ronnie James Dio has inspired me through decades, and this man's influence continues to add colour to my creative spirit. Ever since the first time I heard his royal roar back in the 70's, I have been fascinated by this extremely talented man's creative force and dedication to music. His career has been going on for so long and includes so many great songs, that it was a challenge to decide which songs and what era to focus on. I ended up focusing on the DIO era". The album also includes an original song for which a videoclip, shot by Thomas Tjader (Pretty Maids, In Flames) was produced. Jorn says "I wrote 'Song for Ronnie James' as a tribute and a personal thanks to the man who has been my mentor for more than 35 years. This great man has affected my life and career in such a way that without his presence, I would not have become the artist I am today". The "Song for Ronnie James" videoclip can be watched on Youtube following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEtyaC6ltQg. Either as front man in German metal act Masterplan, which has achieved great success around the world, or as guest in spectacular projects such as Tobias Sammet's "Avantasia", or in the Allen / Lande's releases, Jorn Lande is today a trademark for quality Hard Rock music. "Dio" is the new chapter in Jorn's history and a sincere and heartfelt "thank you" to a great and influential Artist. Dio was mixed by Tommy Hansen, Jailhouse Studios, and the final tracklisting includes the following tracks: Song For Ronnie James; Invisible; Shame on the Night; Push; Stand Up And Shout; Don't Talk to Strangers; Lord Of The Last Day; Night People; Sacred Heart; Sunset Superman; Lonely Is The Word / Letters From Earth (2010 version); Kill The King*; Straight Through The Heart (live). Song for Ronnie James (videoclip). JORN: Jorn Lande: Lead Vocals, Willy Bendiksen: drums, Tore Moren: guitars, Jgor Gianola: guitars, Tor Erik Myhre: guitars, Nic Angileri: Bass. Weblinks: www.jornlande.com / www.myspace.com/realjorn / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecordsusa.   xx KIVEL RECORDS SERVES A DOUBLE DOSE OF THRILL: News from Kivel Records: "Are you ready to get .....Outrageous? Goodbye Thrill is back to pick up where they left off with their debut release. Armed with some new faces and a fresh new album just in time for the summer fun. This is a melodicrock album that will deliver, we promise that if you enjoyed the 1st album, then you are going to love Outrageous! Marco did a killer job handling all the guitar duties on the bands latest effort, and surpassed both label and bands expectations. We are very proud of him for both writing, and performing an album filled with such great material. Joining the GBT fold, is the bands New guitarist Chuck Beckman. A guitarist to watch out for without a doubt. We are looking fwd to seeing him play this material live with Marco and the boys. Unfortunately the album was already in the can when Chuck joined Goodbye Thrill. So look out for him to show his stuff live, and on the next album. As a guitar duo, Marco and Chuck will not disappoint! Outrageous is due June 20th. Just in time to get your Thrill for the beach weather. So Pre-order your copy now at www.kivelrecords.com. Also if you have yet to snag a copy, then pick up Goodbye Thrill's Keepsakes. A CD of unreleased material and acoustic GBT tunes. Along with a bonus Free DVD! Containing Over 45 minutes of live, candid and in the studio footage. Buy any 2 titles, and get the third half price automatically." Outrageous Track order: 1. Black Book (Full Length Download) 2. Bride To Be 3. Scumbag 4. Talk About it 5. Disposable 6. Don't Want to Miss a Thing 7. Outrageous 8. Case of Mondays 9. So Unpredictable 10. Work it Out.   ROCK & ROLL TRAIN: A MILLENNIUM TRIBUTE TO AC/DC: Versailles Records' forthcoming 'Rock & Roll Train: A Millennium Tribute to AC/DC' will feature former AC/DC drummer Chris Slade alongside Lizzy Borden guitarist Ira Black on the Bon Scott-era classic 'Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock & Roll)'. Black co-produced the track along with album producers Richard Kendrick and Jake Brown, who commented of Slade's inclusion that "its one of the true highlights for Rik and I, in over 10 years of producing these albums, to be working with a member of the greatest hard rock band of all time on this record- coupled with the fact this will be our first tribute LP ever issued in VINYL." Alongside Slade, the tribute also includes current/former members of Guns N Roses, Megadeth, Yngwie Malmsteen, Fuel, Alice Cooper Band, Lizzy Borden, The Firm, Lillian Axe, Freakshow, the Circle Jerks, Mountain, Brides of Destruction, Rainbow, Love/Hate, Manfred Mann, Hanoi Rocks, Brother Kane, Uriah Heep, Asia, Dangerous Toys, Warrant, and L.A. Guns, as well as original artists the Skyscreamers (which features vocalist Rose Reiter), Marko Pukkula, Katet, Markus Allen Christopher, A.J. Caruso, the Jason Jakes Band, Katet, Gregg Analla, Loaded Dice, Attica, Martian Honey, and (Robot Lords of Tokyo)?. The album will also be released with a bonus sampler featuring up/coming Millennium rock and metal bands influenced by AC/DC. The album is scheduled to hit stores in the later fall.

 

 

Friday, May 21, 2010

Time to update folks about a few things going on behind the scenes at MelodicRock.com. I'm talking about plans for MRCD7, 8 and 9 plus MRDVD1 & 2! Artist submissions for MRCD7 are due in by June 30 at the very latest. To check or availability and compilations details - contact me now. MRCD7 will follow the path of MRCD5 and be a Double CD set of new and upcoming Melodic Rock highlights, plus a few rare and unreleased gems from the past. And it will feature the longest track ever to make a MR compilation, with one epic tune clocking in over 9 minutes in length. A few surprises in store as usual. MRCD8 will be another Double CD set - going back to the concept of MRCD4 - the best melodic rock songs ever. Except this time I'm going to cram 30+ of the best melodic rock ballads ever onto one compilation. Really looking forward to working on this. If any artist has a killer ballad they think might fit the compilation - e-mail now. MRCD9 will fill a long requested void in the MRCD series - an all metal compilation! Again, interested parties can e-mail now for details. MRDVD1 will feature a disc of new and recent MR videos that have been filmed to promote various albums. It will incude a 2nd DVD with some behind the scenes footage and extras from MelodicRockFest1. If you have a video clip of live footage you would like to have featured on the DVD, please e-mail now. MRDVD2 will follow the same path of DVD1 and will feature a bonus disc of fan footage and pictures from MelodicRockFest2. All the above titles are underway and will be released over the course of 2010, starting in August with MRCD7 and MRDVD1. I am also excited to announce the formation of MelodicRockRecords. It is about time this site had its own record label, but this won't be on any grand scale. I'm not about to compete with any of my label partners that I love working with, rather MelodicRockRecords will simply be a small exclusive independent label that will handle whatever artists I come across and believe in, who want to like what I do and who perhaps (for whatever reason), didn't secure a deal with a bigger label. What is guaranteed though, is maximum exposure here (as I wouldn't work with anyone I didn't 100% believe in) and the ability for fans to purchase these releases direct from me and via a few of the known specialist melodic rock retailers. I'm continuing to build the concept of the label and what exactly I might be able to accomplish and of course...looking for the right artist/albums to work with! I won't be signing a ton of bands or releasing a record every month. Just a few quality releases throughout the year. Details of MRR001 will be announced next month. I think you're gonna love this guitar driven melodic rock band! Might be another surprise coming also… Again...any further info required, e-mail now. A new Feature Interview is online today - it's been a while I know - but here's my recent conversation with Giant's David Huff about the band's new Promise Land album, new members Terry Brock and John Roth and whatever else I could fit in. Read The Interview.   CELEBRITY APPRENTICE FINALIST, BRET MICHAELS, BACK IN HOSPITAL: Bret Michaels was readmitted to the hospital this week after suffering numbness on the left side of his body, predominately his face and hands which doctors described as a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or warning stroke. While MRI and CT scan tests were being conducted, Michaels also received a Doppler Ultrasound of his legs and lower abdomen looking for blood clots and most importantly an Ultrasound Bubble Test of his heart was conducted which proved positive for a Patent Forum Ovale (PFO), a hole in the heart. Dr. Zabramski (Bret's neurosurgeon), Dr. Becker (who ordered the test), Dr. Cook (who conducted the test) and Dr. Frey (Director, Outpatient Stroke Program) all confirmed the results. Dr. Zabramski states "There is no doubt that the positive Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is devastating news to Bret and his family. The good news is that it is operable and treatable and we think we may have diagnosed the problem that caused the Transient Ischemic Attach (TIA) or warning stroke; however we feel it is highly unlikely this is connected to the brain hemorrhage he suffered just a few weeks earlier. Once again it is great that he quickly reacted to the severe numbness and got to the hospital immediately." Dr. Zabramski continues, "I realize Bret wants to make a full recovery so that he can be active with his family, attempt to attend the finale of Celebrity Apprentice and especially get back on the road to continue making music. Without a doubt he is very determined to get healthy and make a 100% recovery. Medically speaking it is a fantastic attitude both mentally and physically for him to have. However, Bret's brain and body are not quite 100% yet, especially with the hole found in his heart. Further tests will be conducted throughout the week and I will have more information next week as to how this Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) will be treated. For now, Bret will be treated with outpatient care which includes a daily injection of Lovenox (a blood thinner to reduce the chance of blood clots) and blood tests." Bret's rep, Janna Elias, states "Bret wants everyone to know he cannot thank you enough for all of the well wishes, prayers, and good vibes you have sent his way. Even though these last few months have been tough on him and his family, especially this most recent setback, he is in good spirits, great medical hands and is positive and hopeful that everything is going to be OK. He is up, walking, talking, continuing his daily rehab and very happy to be alive but he has made it clear he is sick and tired of being in the hospital and is ready to rock again." MORE TRIBUTES TO RONNIE JAMES DIO: VH1 Classic is celebrating the life and career of Black Sabbath singer Ronnie James Dio with a special tribute, "Dedicated To Dio," on Saturday, May, 22 at 11:30PM*. Following "That Metal Show" at 11PM*, host Eddie Trunk will take viewers on a special half-hour celebration showcasing rare interview footage, including Dio's appearances on "That Metal Show" which is one of his last interviews before his tragic passing, and his classic videos. Tune in to celebrate the life of the legendary Black Sabbath singer and honor his legacy with his well-known videos "Neon Diver," "Holy Diver," "Hear 'n' Aid" and "The Mob Rules," and never before seen footage from Dio's appearances on "That Metal Show." Fans can catch full episodes of "That Metal Show" featuring Dio at VH1Classic.com and music videos, exclusive clips and more. For more information on this show and other VH1 Classic programming, please log onto VH1Classic.com. Ken Pierce, Editor In Chief of Piercing Metal has his Dio memorial narrative online at: piercingmetal.com/wordpress/?p=3784. Dave Meniketti from Y&T talks RJD: "I feel the necessity to say something about Ronnie to my friends here on this forum. At this current moment in time this is very difficult for me as I'm extremely saddened by the news of his passing so I may not so eloquently say exactly what I feel, but here it is, just the same. Though I can only speak of Ronnie as an acquaintance, his impact on me has been one of positivity and I will forever remember his spirit. This is not simply because he has been so kind to me over his career, but because he has reinforced the feelings I have for the way one should lead their lives as an entertainer and as a man. His talent speaks for itself, but his kindness to his fans and commitment to his art was exceptional. This man, with such an amazing and uncanny voice that had lasted for his entirety, has taught me a few things about how to be selfless, yet frank and unapologetic about life as a public figure and artist. As I have witnessed, Ronnie, no matter how tired, would greet every fan with true sincerity and complete attention, never belittling them, nor seeming to show any trace of being impatient with the commitment that comes with being a star. When I think back as Y&T started our first of many shows on tour together for the Meanstreak record in 1983, I remember my feelings about hearing his voice for the first time. We had just walked into the hall as Dio was sound-checking. I had made it half way across the concert hall, looking for our backstage room as he started to sing. I stopped in my tracks and looked back in amazement as this incredibly huge voice bellowed out from the PA speakers. I was both taken aback and incredibly intimidated by his ability. Absolutely astonished, is all I could feel. Since that time, the band had become friends with the Dio bunch and have had many interactions throughout the years after. I remember when we were recording our Contagious CD how the guys were across the parking lot rehearsing and we would each hang out at each others places. I remember the full bar, in a road case, that Ronnie had for their rehearsals and thought "how cool is that". I remember Vinnie selflessly coming in the studio to help Jimmy work out how to play the beat to LA Rocks when he was having trouble with the groove. And I mostly remember how Ronnie had entrusted me to be the first singer on the "Stars" single for the Hear N' Aid project. His guidance as I sang the track was both knowledgeable and respectful, always in control and always a gentleman. I have many more personal memories that I will keep to myself, but suffice it to say that this man was a true star. I terribly mourn the loss of him and celebrate him to the highest. We have all lost a legendary vocalist and, as far as I'm concerned, a fine man beyond reproach. For myself, I have lost what I considered a true friend in what can often be a cut-throat and unfriendly business. Long live Ronnie James Dio." - Dave Meniketti. ERIC MARTIN SETS TO WORK LIVE AND NEW MR. BIG: News straight from Eric Martin - "I'm doing a few shows in South America this weekend with my solo band. Jeff Scott Soto is on the tour as well...it's gonna be fun! I'll be back home next week with Andre's All Star band at the Muir Beach BBQ and then at Marinwood in the Park and the Last Day Saloon with my old solo band. I'm looking forward to seeing you all within the next couple of months. Mr. Big begins recording or next album in September. Look for a world tour in 2011 to support it. I can't wait!" Live Dates: May 21, 2010 Eric Martin Band Teatro Flores, Buenos Aires May 22, 2010 Eric Martin Band Hangar Bar, Curitiba May 23, 2010 Eric Martin Band Carioca Club, Sao Paulo May 30, 2010 Muir Beach BBQ Muir Beach Fireman's BBQ, Muir Beach Jul 09, 2010 Eric Martin Band Marinwood Park, San Rafael Jul 10, 2010 Eric Martin Band The Last Day Saloon, Santa Rosa WebLink: www.ericmartin.com THUNDER ON AIR: Thunder's Danny and Luke will be making several appearances on the radio over the coming days and weeks to talk about the new EMI Box Set, 'Thunder Live At The BBC (1990-1995)', which is released in the UK on May 24th (more info and pre-order details visit www.thunderonline.com). The following appearances are confirmed for next Tuesday (25th May): 11.40am Live interview with Bernie Keith at BBC Northampton / 3.00pm Live interview with Pat Marsh at BBC Kent / 3.30pm Live interview with Phil White at BBC Humberside / 6.50pm Live interview with Nicky Horne on Planet Rock (Danny only) They will also be recording interviews for the following DJs/stations... John Clayton at BBC Lancs / Stuart Cable at BBC Wales / Neil Jones Rock Show at Star FM / Mike Sweeney at Rock Radio Manchester / Stephen Foster at BBC Suffolk / Total Rock. In addition to all that, the guys will also be recording a Takeover Special for the Rock Radio Network (Glasgow, Manchester, Edinburgh and Newcastle) which will involve them presenting a show and playing 20 of their favourite songs, including a few career highlight Thunder songs. Not bad for a band that doesn't exist anymore! WebLinks: www.thunderonline.com / www.thunderonline-shop.co.uk. NEW 707 LINE-UP COMING: 707's big rock radio hit "I Could Be Good For You" is featured the new film "Grown Ups" starring Adam Sandler, David Spade & Chris Rock. Opening June 25th. 707's Kevin Russell will be announcing the all new 707 lineup next month. 707 will begin doing dates late summer on through the fall-winter 2010. 707 website: www.myspace.com/kevinrusselldetroit. MAMA KIN TO PLAY AT SWEDEN ROCK FEST: Leon Music/Jamsync Music recording artist Mama Kin have been selected to perform at this years Sweden Rock Fest. The band will be performing on Thursday June 10th at the Nemis Tent from 1:00pm - 1:30pm. Debuting at #30 on the Swedish album charts and #5 on the hard rock charts, MAMA KIN has recently released their smashing debut in North America titled, 'In The City' on Jamsync Music. Some of the acts performing at Sweden Rock Fest are Guns n Roses, Slayer, Aerosmith, WASP, Danzig, Gary Moore, Cinderella, Ratt, Winger, Nazareth, Anvil, Y&T, Bachman & Turner, Billy Idol, Magnum. Visit www.swedenrock.com for the latest on the fest. Visit www.jamsyncmusic.com for more info on Mama Kin and to purchase In The City! MR-X UPDATE: MR-X hs been updated with the following - Feature Album: Robert Berry - Takin' It Back Special Feature: Pride Of Lions - Live At MelodicRockFest 2, May 1, 2010 (Audience Recording) Feature Live: Scorpions - Live at Hanns-Martin-Schleyer, Stuttgart - Germany 14/05/2010 (2CD set) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, May 20, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF TERRA NOVA NEW STUDIO ALBUM: Dutch Melodic Rockers Terra Nova will release their anticipated new album Come Alive on July 2nd in Europe and July 27th in the USA. "Come Alive" is the band's 5th original studio album and their first full length release over the last five years. Terra Nova started the work for the recording of the new album in 2008. Their vision was to go back and recreate the exciting sound of their debut album "Livin' It Up", a milestone record which captured the sheer joie de vivre of the eighties AOR and melodic rock and catapulted Terra Nova into the vanguard of the genre, both in Europe and Japan. With this in mind Terra Nova reunited in the original line-up with Fred Hendrix on lead vocals and guitar, Ron Hendrix on keyboards, Gesuino Derosas on lead guitars, Lars Beuving on drums and the additional musician Eric Coenen (who played on the band's third and fourth record) on bass guitar. "The new songs are very much in the line of "Livin' It Up", states Fred Hendrix, "fresh and pumping, but with a little blink to the modern sound and styles. Our aim was to please our earliest fans but also the new generation of Melodic Rock fans and we have tried to combine old and new styles and sounds. This album was a real joy to record with all the original members of our first album!" Terra Nova debuted in 1996 with the amazing 'Livin' It Up', a record that marked the end of a long musical era for the two Hendrix brothers, the band's founding members. No second album syndrome caught Terra Nova and 'Break Away' was released in 1997 to major critical acclaim and even bigger success in Japan, leading to a major tour of the Far East in 1998. At the end of 1999, after the release of their third album, 'Make My Day', persistent problems with their Dutch record company saw the band reach the end of their patience and the end of the road. Six years after, Frontiers Records pulled Fred Hendrix away from his solo projects and commissioned a new album. For the thousands of fans who remembered Terra Nova's three nineties' releases this was truly something to celebrate and the come-back album "Escape" was received warmly by the critics and fans. Come Alive is now set to restore the faith in true Melodic Rock! Don't miss one of the highlights of the season. Come Alive tracklisting includes: Come Alive; Fighting Yourself; Holy Grail; Here Comes The Night; Those Eyes; Under Pressure; Do Or Die; Who Can You Count On; My Own Way; The Final Curtain. Check out Terra Nova and / or the Frontiers Records website for tour news which we are planned for the end of this year. Weblinks: www.terranova.name / www.myspace.com/terranova2 / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx   MORE TRIBUTES TO HONOUR RONNIE JAMES DIO: "Ronnie James Dio made four appearances at Sweden Rock Festival: twice with his own band Dio, and twice with Heaven & Hell - most recently just last summer. Ronnie always had a keen eye towards Sweden and Sweden Rock, and over the years we developed a good relationship to both him and his wife/manager Wendy. It was with heavy hearts we woke up Monday morning realising that the news of his passing the day before had not been a bad dream, and that one of the greatest of all time had indeed left us. To honour his memory, we have decided to rename the Zeppelin Stage: this year it will be called Dio Stage. We are also planning a tribute ceremony on one of the main stages. More info on this will follow shortly. In October, we will gather some of the most prominent Swedish metal musicians for a tribute concert on the Sweden Rock Cruise. The names of the participants will be announced as soon as they have been confirmed. For more info, please contact: martin@swedenrock.com. "Ronnie James Dio has passed away and my sorrow runs deeper than words can describe. When the world became a colder place, Ronnie was a symbol of fire and honesty. His magic will forever stay with me, and inspire me to go on. My thoughts go to his wife Wendy, his family and friends, in their devastating loss. I will honor Ronnies memory, and he will always live in my heart and music. With love.." - Jorn Lande. "It is a very sad day today... I have lost a very dear friend. Ronnie was a true Leader of Heavy Metal... an Icon and a Visionary...there will never be another like him. Ronnie gave me wisdom, and showed me great compassion when he was in ELF, all those years ago, when we were on tour together in my time in Deep Purple. He was a beautiful Soul, kind, considerate and a wonderful teacher. Someday I'll be bringing your Microphone up there with me, and we'll sing a song, and share a Vindaloo together...I'll miss you mate. Your Pal..." - Glenn Hughes. "I was very saddened to hear of the passing of Ronnie James Dio. Metal has truly lost one of its greatest voices. My heart goes out to his family and to his many fans." - Ozzy Osbourne. "We mourn the tragic passing of the great Ronnie James Dio. In addition to his powerhouse vocal ability, Ronnie was a true gentleman who always emanated great warmth and friendship to us and everyone around him. We will miss him." - Kiss "I've been in total shock; I just can't believe he's gone. I can honestly say it's truly been an honor to play at his side for all these years. His music will live on forever." - Tony Iommi, Black Sabbath and Heaven & Hell. "Bon voyage, Ronnie. Rest in peace. I'm devastated." - Lemmy, Motörhead. "A couple of weeks ago when I heard that you were not going to be able to make it to the Sonisphere shows that we would be sharing this June, I wanted to call you and let you know that I was thinking of you and wish you well, but I kind of pussied out, thinking the last thing you needed in your recovery was feeling obligated to take a phone call from a Danish drummer/fan boy. I wish I'd made that call. We will miss you immensely on the dates, and we will be thinking of you with great admiration and affection during that run. It seemed so right to have you out on tour with the so-called 'Big Four' since you obviously were one of the main reasons that the four bands even exist. Your ears will definitely be burning during those two weeks because all of us will be talking, reminiscing and sharing stories about how knowing you has made our lives that much better. Ronnie, your voice impacted and empowered me, your music inspired and influenced me, and your kindness touched and moved me. Thank you. Much love." - Lars Ulrich, Metallica. This Friday night, Purrfect Timing is dedicated to Ronnie James Dio....please join host Allee Martell and special guests Hairball John of the Hairball John Radio Show and Lonn Friend from RIP Magazine ....we will be remembering the man, the metal and the mystic with some musical highlights and memories. Horns and halos...way up. Purrfect Timing airs Live on ARfm - London...every Friday 1pmCST / 7pmGMT Tune in at: www.arfm.co.uk. On a very special episode of Hard Rock Nights, airing May 21-27, tribute will be paid to the voice of heavy metal, Ronnie James Dio. The two-hour episode will feature music spanning the late singer's career, from the oldies of the 1960s to his last studio release with Heaven and Hell. Several special guests will appear on the program to share memories of Dio, including Ron Keel, Tommy Denander, Robert Sarzo of Hurricane, former bandmates Rowan Robertson and Tracy G, touring member Chuck Garric, and many others. Hard Rock Nights is a weekly syndicated radio program broadcast on several rock and metal stations on the FM dial and the internet. Visit hardrocknights.wordpress.com/affiliates for a full list of stations and times. Andy DiGelsomina, composer of the forthcoming heavy metal opera, Lyraka, has issued the following statement: "The loss of Ronnie James Dio has devastated me, and the effects of this will reverberate in metal for years. My own music was massively inspired by him. The first heavy metal song I ever heard was "Man on the Silver Mountain", and today it still gives me chills. Most of my favorite songs are by Ronnie James Dio, including my favorite ever, Stargazer. I've actually gone long periods where Ronnie's music was practically the only music I'd listen to, period. Two years after I started playing guitar, a friend introduced me to Rainbow Rising, and my world changed. At the time, I was abandoned, homeless, and sleeping with my guitar. Rainbow Rising completely affirmed my drive to be a great musician; to stay strong through the heartbreaking loneliness and rejection of my then destitute situation. I never got over that album...it never stopped effecting on a deeply emotional level. But that goes for a lot of Ronnie's output over the years. I have listened to Ronnie for 35 years, and will be listening for the rest of my life." My Add Comment database is currently being upgraded, so at this time I am unable to post a condolence book for RJD as earlier stated. My apologies for this. THE OUTFIELD PREVIEW NEW TRACKS: British rock trio The Outfield debuted exclusive new tracks on their official website last week to rave reviews. Guitarist/songwriter John Spinks, was interviewed by Damian Watson for BFBS Radio in the UK which aired on May 14th. The interview covered The Outfield's rise from the London pub circuit to international multi-platinum success. The segment included snippets of new tracks from the most recent recording sessions. Tracks such as 'California Sun' and 'A Long, Long Time Ago' prove that quality wins every time, and luckily the band convincingly convey that they are still capable of delivering the goods. Also previewed in the snippets are two tracks entitled 'Sandman' (originally a demo from 1983) and 'Mr. Paranoia' in which Spinks' merges tasteful pop with a bit of atmospheric sophistication. You can listen to the full-length interview and new song snippets here. ROXX RECORDS NEWS UPDATES: Roxx Records is very proud to announce the Spring release of Pastor Brad's Break Out! After 5 independent instrumental shred albums, Pastor Brad is back with his fourth full-length vocal album and his first on Roxx Records!  While the old-school guitar shred influences are still here, this album will hit you square in the face with some of the heaviest sounding riffs ever recorded on any Pastor Brad album! What started out as a true solo CD turned in to a very special release with tons of special guest artists! The album is set to feature the following very special guest appearances… Ken Tamplin, Les Carlsen (of Bloodgood), Rachel Anne (of Iron Majesty), Chaz Bond (of Jacob's Dream), Richie Z (of Blind Seven), Dave Merriwether (of Stricken), Jim Griffin (of Griffin X), Norman 'Ski' Kiersznowski (of Faith Factor), Luke Weber (of The Pastor Brad Band), Angel Zamora. As an added bonus the first 100 pre-orders of this special release will come with a bonus disc entitled 'Best of the Rest' a bonus disc of rarities, unreleased tracks and also some of the 'Break Out' tracks featuring Pastor Brad handling all the vocals! (they were just too good not to put out) So if you're a Pastor Brad fan you will definitely want to get in on the pre-order for this one! This debut Roxx Release is set to hit the streets on April 27, 2010 and will be available everywhere!   The year was 1985, the Metal scene was alive and thriving, many magazines and fanzines were popping up to cover the latest and greatest in the metal scene. Magazines like Metal Edge and Spin would rise to the top of the rock and metal scenes in covering the hard rock and metal scene and excel at it for many years. But only one magazine would rise to the occasion of exclusively covering the Christian hard rock and metal scene. One magazine that 25 years later is still alive and thriving today, 'in a print format', which is a huge accomplishment, amidst the many ongoing changes in the ways we promote music to the world today! Join us for one special weekend as we celebrate 25 years of Heaven's Metal Magazine! Two days of heavenly metal from artists that have in the past, and still do today, grace the pages of Heaven's Metal magazine! But wait, not only will we be celebrating 25 years of Heaven's Metal magazine, we will also be celebrating several seminal anniversaries from some of the key artists that helped shape the magazine, many of which still continue to grace the pages of the magazine today! Featuring performances from Deliverance celebrating the bands 25th Anniversary, Bloodgood celebrating the 25th Anniversary of their 'Metal Missionaries' EP, Once Dead celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Vengeance Rising's 'Once Dead' album and a special reunion marking the 25th Anniversary of Stevie and the Saints! Not enough for you? How about performances from New Mexico's very own Ultimatum in their only California appearance! How about Indiana's very own Grave Robber in their first and only Southern California appearance! Still want more? How about performances from Klank, fasedown, Stricken, Souljourners, Troglodyte Dawn, Fellguard and I built the Cross! August 28th and 29th at the Vault in Temecula California, Limited tickets are available for this very special once in a life time event! Join us as we celebrate the Anniversaries of some of the most influential artists in the Christian Metal and Hard Rock Scene and one of the longest running print rock magazines in the industry, Heaven's Metal! For full details and ticket information visit www.tvsomata.com/thevault or www.roxxproductions.com. Also be sure and check out the Official UFTA3 My Space for up to the minute news and updates! www.myspace.com/ufta30810 FOGHAT RETURN TO THEIR BLUES ROOTS ON LAST TRAIN HOME DUE JUNE 15: Foghat is often linked to the classic rock genre, due to such anthems as Slow Ride and Fool for the City, but the band has always had their roots in vintage blues. So it shouldn't come as much of a surprise to longtime fans that Foghat has reconnected with the blues on their latest release, Last Train Home. Recorded both in New York at EKO Studios and at Foghats own studio, Boogie Motel South, the album combines covers of such blues classics as So Many Roads, So Many Trains and Shake Your Money Maker, as well as a few new originals. The groups blues roots can be traced back to the pre-Foghat band, Savoy Brown, as well as Foghats first hit single - the classic cover of Willie Dixons I Just Want To Make Love To You. But perhaps the most obvious connection was a star-studded concert the band organized in 1977 at the Palladium in New York, when they hosted a benefit to start a Blues Archive at the New York Public Library. Foghat was the house band at the show, as many bona fide blues legends joined them on stage - including Muddy Waters , John Lee Hooker, Johnny Winter, Pinetop Perkins, Paul Butterfield, Honey Boy Edwards, Otis Blackwell, and Eddie Bluesman Kirkland (the latter of which recently reconnected with the band, and led to his inclusion on Last Train Home). Last Train Home sees Foghats line-up - Roger Earl (drums), Charlie Huhn (vocals/rhythm & lead guitar), and Bryan Bassett (lead & slide guitar) - joined by several special guests, including Kirkland, harmonica player Lefty Sugar Lips Lefkowitz, and Earls brother, Colin, on piano. Due to a prior commitment for the bands bassist, Craig MacGregor, former Foghat/Savoy Brown/Outlaws bassist Jeff Howell filled in for the recording. Additionally, another of the bands recent endeavors has been the creation of their own wine label Foghat Cellars. Their first wine was a 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, and they will be releasing their 2008 Chardonnay this summer. More info can be found at www.foghatcellars.com. One mustnt forget their roots, and Foghat once more reminds us that its the blues that just about every rock n roll style is built upon - as evidenced throughout Last Train Home. Complete track list for Last Train Home on Foghat Records (title and writer): Born for the Road ­ Earl, Bassett, Huhn; Needle & Spoon ­ Chris Youlden; So Many Roads, So Many Trains ­ Otis Rush; Last Train Home ­ Huhn, Bassett, Earl; Shake Your Money Maker ­ Elmore James; It Hurts Me Too ­ Elmore James; Feel So Bad ­ Chuck Willis; Louisiana Blues ­ Muddy Waters; 495 Boogie ­ Earl, Earl, Bassett, Howell, Huhn, Lefkowitz; Rollin & Tumblin / You Need Love ­ CC/Willie Dixon; In My Dreams ­ Eddie Kirkland; Good Good Day ­ Eddie Kirkland. WebLinks: www.foghat.net / www.facebook.com/foghat. FM SIGN RECORD DEAL IN JAPAN MORE SPECIAL GUESTS ANNOUNCED FOR UK TOUR: FM are pleased to announce they have signed a deal with Japanese label Marquee/Avalon. Marquee/Avalon will release FM's new album Metropolis in Japan 19 May 2010. Track listing - Wildside, Hollow, Unbreakable, Flamingo Road, Metropolis, Over You, Days Gone By, Bring Back Yesterday, I Ain't The One, Don't Need Nothin', The Extra Mile, Who'll Stop The Rain, Still The Fight Goes On, Kissed By An Angel * * Bonus Track. www.marquee.co.jp/avalon. FM - whose new single Hollow / Flamingo Road is out now, available for download from all good internet stockists - are also very pleased to confirm special guests Worlds End and Ajenda for their Belfast show this Saturday 22 May at the Spring & Airbrake. Tickets available from www.cdcleisure.net In addition, local band psi phi have been added to the bill for FM's Sheffield show with special guests Airrace this Thursday 20 May 2010 at O2 Academy2. Tickets available from www.ticketweb.co.uk / www.fmofficial.com. NEW WICKED SINS SONGS AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD: The long awaited Wicked Sins CD is finally available online for download into your iPods and MP3 players! The 13 songs are now available from Amazon, Napster and iTunes! This album is a product of a lot of hard work and dedication by vocalist / bassist Dyer Knight, drummer Donnie T. Skiff, guitarist Ken Kelly, and producer extraordinaire Robert Benci. Wicked Sins guitarist Ken Kelly, "It's been a very long, hard, painful road to get to this point, and we've had our ups and downs along the way. Everything that could've gone wrong did go wrong at some point. The biggest UP we've had was seeing this CD finally come to fruition, and the biggest DOWN we've had was losing our friend and band-mate, Donnie just days after the final mix was completed almost exactly a year ago." Wicked Sins vocalist / bassist Dyer Knight adds, "It seemed logical to offer the CD up for download because it's the quickest way to reach a Global audience, and also that almost everyone owns an iPod or MP3 player these days." Wicked Sins are working on new material with new members Rod Foxx and Mike Bino, and plan on going out on tour in support of this release as soon as the right opportunity arises. BRET MICHAELS: LIFE AS I KNOW IT: In this first-look special and the forthcoming series, viewers will not only get a taste of Bret Michael's life on the road, but for the first time ever, a look at his home life, a sprawling compound where his daughters and their mother, Kristi Gibson, reside. But raising two little girls and being a rock icon don't always go hand-in-hand. Now fans get to take a peek at what keeps Bret going. Is it the hoards of wild fans, the glory of super stardom, or is it the unconditional love from his family? Watch as Bret juggles life on the road, his career, raising two kids and managing his on again off again relationship with their beautiful mom, Kristi. Tune in Memorial Day night for a first-look sneak peak into the next chapter of Bret's life. The half-hour special will premiere on VH1 Monday, May 31 at 10/9c. Pic: L to R: Kristi Gibson, Raine Michaels, Bret Michaels and Jorja Michaels.   TONY KAYE SAYS SPINAL TAP WAS BASED ON YES: Legendary keyboardist Tony Kaye was a founding member of the superstar rock group Yes, but many fans may not know that in the early Eighties he auditioned to be the keyboardist in the movie This Is Spinal Tap. Kaye ultimately rejected that role in favor of re-joining Yes for its multi-platinum album 90125, but in an exclusive interview with Long Live Rock on Blog Talk Radio, Kaye talked about the experience. 'That is true; I auditioned for the Hammond player in Spinal Tap,' Kaye acknowledged. 'Of course at that time no one knew what it was gonna be. It turned out to be the definitive movie on heavy metal rock and roll. I actually auditioned, and certainly I'm not sure that it would have been a very good move.' Although he ultimately didn't join Spinal Tap, Kaye may have lived parts of the movie in real life. 'A couple of the guys told me that actually the bands that was based on were Yes and Black Sabbath,' the keyboardist said. 'I'm not sure whether that is a real compliment,' he added with a laugh. Kaye's newest project is a band called Yoso, a supergroup with Billy Sherwood and former Toto vocalist Bobby Kimball. The band's debut album Elements is due in July, and Yoso will be touring this year. For more information visit www.yosohq.com. To listen to the interview visit this link. www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/05/19/interview-with-legendary-keyboardist-tony-kaye-from-long-live-rock. HELLYEAH SIGN TO RIOT AUSTRALIA: Hellyeah the band featuring Vinnie Paul (Pantera), Chad Gray and Greg Tribbett (Mudvayne), Tom Maxwell (Nothingface) and Bob Zilla (Damageplan) have signed a deal for their upcoming album 'Stampede', with metal big guns Riot! Entertainment for Australia and New Zealand. "It's a total honour for Riot that Hellyeah have chosen to work with us. This is one project we pursued extremely hard. The album is an absolute killer and it is going to blow people away! We all can't wait to get working on it and hope to have the band down under shortly" stated Riot! owner / CEO John Howarth. Hellyeah Drummer Vinnie Paul commented "We are so excited to be teamed up with RIOT! in Australia! It's a great feeling to have a label as fired up as we are about stampede comin' down under and As always we can't wait to come and play for some of the best fans in the world the Aussies! We love you and 'stampede' arrives June 28th! Hellyeah! See ya soon." 'Stampede', the follow up to the bands 2007 self-titled debut is being recorded, produced and mixed by Vinnie Paul and Sterling Winfield. Vocalist Chad Gray says of the album "I couldn't wait to write this record. I can't wait for our fans to hear it and I definitely can't wait to hit the fucking stage and play it! 'Stampede', represents every emotion that you've ever had and everything that screams Hellyeah! There's no smoke and mirrors with what we are. What you see is what you get. And what your get is Five guys bringin' it, a head full of music, bleeding ears and most likely….Drunk!" Check out Vinnie and Sterling's report from the studio and hear a snippet of a brand new song on the band's YouTube page: www.hellyeahband.com. INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Check out the latest video Interview with Zebra front man Randy Jackson conducted by Gus Griesinger of Backstageaxxess.com: www.backstageaxxess.com/index.php/interviews/262-randy-jackson-interview. A new interview with Mike Levine of Triumph has just been posted to: www.RockMusicStar.com/triumph. Bobby Blotzer interviewed - discussing Ratt's current tour, new album and inspiration of behind some of the tracks, current state of the music industry, Ozzy Osbourne, Tommy Lee and much more. The interview is 33 minutes long and can be listen to at www.youtube.com/user/RockStreetReviews or read at rockstreetreviews.com/Interviews.html. TEENAGE CASKET COMPANY INK DEAL WITH JAMSYNC MUSIC: UK's powerpop rock group Teenage Casket Company has signed a North American deal with Jamsync Music to release a full length project entitled 'Best Kept Secret'. 'Best Kept Secret' is a complete revamp of the bands earlier recordings completely retooled and remastered all in one project with a foreword written by Hardrock Haven freelance writer Derric Miller. 'Best Kept Secret' will see a late summer early fall release just in time for the band's short U.S. tour. Teenage Casket Company bassist Rob 'Laney74' Lane commented on the new release: "TCC are incredibly excited to be working with Jamsync Music on what we see as a great representation of the music we've done so far and it allows us to bring in what we know will be a very exciting second chapter for the band! The response we have always had from US fans this past few years has always been incredibly humbling for us so we can't wait to get things moving over there once more!" For more info on the band checkout www.jamsyncmusic.com or www.myspace.com/teenagecasketcompany.

 

 

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

MORE RJD: More reflections from the rock community on the passing of Ronnie James Dio: "It is with deepest sadness that we mourn the loss of a true legend, an amazing man, and one of the best rock/metal voices ever. The entire staff at SPV offers our deepest condolences to Ronnie James Dio's friends and family. He was truly one the best artists we ever had the pleasure of working with, and the memories that we have of him and his music will live on in our hearts forever." - The whole SPV team. "I have lost someone who I looked up to as a teenager and that person became my good friend. I shared many laughs, stories, drinks and good times with him on and off the road. Ronnie I will miss you terribly and always think fondly of the times we spent together and of your tremendous talent. Till we meet again my friend!" - Greg Smith (Over The Rainbow) "Today we not only lost a legend but we lost a friend. Ronnie was a true gentleman of rock...always kind and giving. I was proud to know him...everyone he touched was raised higher. His energy and legacy will live on...and i ....as a fellow member of Rainbow...will continue to sing his praises and his songs. May God hold him in his hands...RIP." - Joe Lynn Turner ''I was very sad to hear of Ronnie's passing, he was one of the best singers and writers ever, and every time I saw him he was a total gentleman, he will be greatly missed but never forgotten.'' - Bobby Rondinelli (Over The Rainbow). "I am saddened to learn of the death of Ronnie James Dio. He was one of the truly great rock vocalists of our time." - Kelly Keagy. "Ronnie died at 7:45am, but his music will live for eternity. \m/ RIP Ronnie James Dio, one of the best Heavy Metal singers of all time." - Slash. GARY SCHUTT PREPARES NEW SOLO CD: Longtime Jeff Scott Soto (Yngwie, Journey, Talisman) band mate and solo artist Gary Schutt's new album will be called Catharsis. There is no release date yet but it should be later this year. Catharsis will be Gary's eighth solo CD since the debut "Sentimetal" back in 1994 which was graced with the vocals of Mr. Soto himself. Catharsis is also Gary's first all new vocal rock album since 2002's "Excruciating Pleasures". Gary has released three albums and one DVD since, "B-Sides Myself" (unreleased tracks), "Dramatically Acoustic" (all acoustic greatest hits), Palisade "Lost In Paradise" (early originals from High School & College years), and "Self Indulgence Is A Virtue" DVD (music videos, Berklee performance footage, tour footage with Jeff Scott Soto, making-of movies & commentaries). Music videos for two of the new Catharsis songs are on YouTube: Down - www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPdojzIcvO8 & Love Me For Me - www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxUQAaqr3MA. The single for "Love Me For Me" with non-album bonus track "It's Not Me" is now available exclusively on iTunes. For more Gary Schutt info please visit www.garyschutt.com. MELODIC ROCK FEST 2 REVIEWS: Some Press Reviews are coming in for MelodicRockFest 2 - I'm thrilled to hear of such a positive response from all in attendance. It was a blast... A big VIP night write up at Rockeyez (with Day 1 and 2 to follow): www.rockeyez.com/live_reviews/2010-04-melodic-rock/day-one/2010-04-01-05-02-df-melodic-rock.html. Rocknation staff Mark Balogh & Brian Rademacher attended the Melodic Rock Fest II in Elgin, Illinois April 30, May 1 & 2. Danger Danger, Y&T, Voices of Rock Radio featuring Jimi Jamison (Survivor) Kevin Chalfant (707) Derek St. Holmes (Ted Nugent Band), Ted Poley Band, Trixter, Winger and many more great melodic rock bands performed. A two page review with exclusive photos and show review are posted at: www.rocknation.us/issue14. Get Ready To Rock Review: www.getreadytorock.com/reviews2010/10melodic_rock_fest1.htm. BERT HEERINK CHARTS IN HOLLAND: The Dutch singer Bert Heerink, best known as the former singer from the 80's rock band Vandenberg, entered the Dutch top 10 this week with the hit single Panic Attack, written by Russ Ballard. The single is the openings track from the in September 2009 world wide released album Better Yet from Heerink. It is the remarkable third career for the 57 years young singer. After the great worldwide tours with Vandenberg ("Burning Heart", "Different Worlds".) Bert Heerink became very successful in the 90's as solo artist in the Netherlands after singing the tunes for a beer commercial. His following solo album even became gold. The release of the latest album last September means a renewed English international singing career. The album itself was already successful in the Japanese charts and another track "All Fired Up" had been adopted by the famous Dutch TT Circuit as the seasons tune for this year before the single "Panic Attack" now became a hit. The fact that Bert Heerink is touring with his band to promote the album is a certain reason for the unexpected success. The single will soon be released in Germany as well and may well be the successor off the popular song "Shame on you" from the album Voices of Rock 2, one of the best sold rock albums in Germany last year.

 

 

Monday, May 17, 2010

Message from Wendy Dio: "Today my heart is broken, Ronnie passed away at 7:45am 16th May. Many, many friends and family were able to say their private good-byes before he peacefully passed away. Ronnie knew how much he was loved by all. We so appreciate the love and support that you have all given us. Please give us a few days of privacy to deal with this terrible loss. Please know he loved you all and his music will live on forever." www.ronniejamesdio.com   "The term "legend" is bandied about all to often these days. But when speaking of Ronnie James Dio, we speak of a true legend. A genuine rock n roll giant. He was one of a kind. His passing today from stomach cancer is a day many metal fans will remember for many years to come, "devil's horns" extended into the air in tribute. RJD was a legend and fronted some legendary bands. He leaves behind a legacy of music few can ever compete with. If there is any solace gathered in his passing, it is the fact that he rocked us all for 50+ years and did what he loved right up until the moment he simply couldn't. Retirement was not a word in Ronnie's vocabulary. I and MelodicRock.com pay tribute to the late, great Ronnie James Dio and wish his wife Wendy, his family, friends, bandmates and fans. My personal condolences and best wishes in this time. A condolence book will be set up here shortly in the tradition of other greats that have passed before him. Rest In Peace RJD." In Video Memorium - Hear' N' Aid: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrj5CET4ehE / Rainbow In The Dark: www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmSt1oEIshE / and more recently with Tenacious D: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmU7FshBwgg. CHICKENFOOT READY TO SCRATCH OUT OPUS #2: Detroit (Billboard) – Its all-star members may be working on other projects -- the new Red Hot Chili Peppers album for Chad Smith, solo sets for Sammy Hagar and Joe Satriani -- but Chickenfoot has already started work on its sophomore album. "This time around it doesn't seem too scary to try to pull it off," guitarist Satriani says. "We know we've done it once. The whole scheduling thing doesn't scare us like it did last time. We're more relaxed about the fact everyone has got crazy schedules and know that when we do get together, it's really fun." The quartet, which also includes former Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony, had a "very productive" session in April, before the launch party for the group's concert DVD, "Get Your Buzz On Live," at Hagar's Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Chickenfoot will spend most of September working on the album, then reconvene in late January and early February for "wrap-up sessions," with a spring 2011 release planned, again via Best Buy. Satriani says he expects to have "probably 20 (more) songs to lay on everybody when we get together again." A producer hasn't yet been chosen for the album, but Andy Johns and Mike Fraser, who both worked on 2008's "Chickenfoot" debut, are leading candidates. GUITARIST MICHAEL SCHENKER RECRUITS DRUM ICON CARMINE APPICE FOR HISTORY-MAKING SUMMER TOUR: Los Angeles, CA - Legendary guitarist Michael Schenker will join forces with drum icon Carmine Appice on the 30th Anniversary Tour - North America. Other band members in the lineup include Gary Barden - vocals; Elliott "Dean" Rubinson - bass (July tourdates): Rev Jones - bass (August tourdates); and Wayne Findlay - guitars and keyboards. The tour kicks off on July 15th in Redondo Beach, CA. 10 specially priced VIP tickets will be sold for each concert which will allow attendees to hang out with Appice and Schenker after the concert and also enter them in a contest for prizes. Stay tuned for more info soon. Tourdates for the 30th Anniversary Tour - North America are: JUL 15 2010 Brixton Redondo Beach, CA JUL 16 2010 Galaxy Theatre Santa Ana, CA JUL 18 2010 Brick By Brick San Diego, CA JUL 21 2010 Back Stage Live San Antonio, TX JUL 24 2010 Zoo Amphitheatre (Rock N America Festival) Oklahoma City, OK JUL 27 2010 Showcase Live Foxborough, MA JUL 28 2010 Altar Bar Pittsburgh, PA JUL 29 2010 Starland Ballroom Sayreville, NJ JUL 30 2010 Jaxx Springfield, VA JUL 31 2010 The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza New York, NY AUG 01 2010 The Crazy Donkey Farmingdale, NY AUG 02 2010 The Hideout Binghamton, NY AUG 04 2010 Scatz Nightclub Middleton, WI AUG 8 2010 Tower Theatre Fresno, CA AUG 11 2010 Studio Seven Seattle, WA AUG 13 2010 The Last Day Saloon Santa Rosa, CA AUG 14 2010 Pepperbelly's Fairfield, CA AUG 15 2010 The Avalon Santa Clara, CA Hard rock guitarist Michael Schenker is a former member of UFO and a founding member of the Scorpions and the Michael Schenker Group (M.S.G). He is the younger brother of Rudolf Schenker, guitarist with the Scorpions. Schenker joined UFO under unusual circumstances. The band left the UK to play some dates in Germany. Their guitarist at the time, Bernie Marsden, forgot his passport and was unable to make the first gig. At the venue, UFO spotted Michael playing a soundcheck with the Scorpions and managed to persuade him into playing that evening's show. And the rest is history.....Eventually, Schenker decided he wanted to play his own music and not be a hired hand for another band. In 1979, he founded the Michael Schenker Group, and the band has been recording and touring as numerous incarnations ever since. Author, clinician, drummer... Carmine Appice first came to prominence as the percussionist with the late 1960s psychedelic band Vanilla Fudge. He contributed distinctive background harmonies with bassist Tim Bogert, adding to the group's high decibel sonic assault. After five albums, Appice and Bogert left Vanilla Fudge to form the blues rock quartet Cactus with vocalist Rusty Day and guitarist Jim McCarty. Eventually, Appice left Cactus with Bogert to join Jeff Beck in the power trio Beck, Bogert & Appice, and then later joined Rod Stewart's backing band in 1977, co-writing hit songs such as "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy?" and "Young Turks". In 1978, Appice played drums on Paul Stanley's first solo album and has recorded with Stanley Clarke and Pink Floyd. He also recorded and toured with Ted Nugent, Ozzy Osbourne, Blue Murder, and was the founding member of King Kobra. Fuel Records reissued Carmine Appice's Guitar Zeus project in August 2009. For more information about Michael Schenker and Carmine Appice, please visit the following web sites: www.michaelschenkerhimself.com / www.carminappice.net. BOBBY KIMBALL TO JET INTO i-TAB LAUNCH PARTY: On Thursday May 20th at 9pm, the legendary Bobby Kimball formerly of the iconic rock band Toto jets into Mantra Garden Bar in Maynooth, Co Kildare, Ireland to launch the new upgraded i-tab, which is now in music stores throughout the UK, Ireland, USA and Australia. The official i-tab launch party will be a spectacular event attended by over 500 guests from the music industry, hosted by Tom Dunne & Dave Fanning. The famous Bobby Kimball will perform with a super group of Irish session musicians including Anthony Drennan on Guitar and vocals, Tony Molloy on Bass, Conor McGouran on Guitar, Paul Lyttle and Gerry Forde on Keyboards. There will be surprise celebrity guests playing with the band and the evening will also include demos of i-tab on various guitars plus an acoustic set by Jimmy Coup of Thin Lizzy songs. i-tab are honored that Bobby Kimball tested the latest i-tab technology. When commenting on the i-tab he said: "The i-tab is one of the most innovative products I have come across in my long career in music. It will radically transform the way musicians store and play their music. As well as helping i-tab in promoting the product I am also delighted to be getting involved with product development and opening new markets for this exciting young Irish company that has taken the musical world by storm in just a few short months. Its a success story that I am proud to be involved with and I was delighted to get the chance to come and perform in Ireland, one of the spiritual homes of music. This is going to be a great opening night for a great company with an amazing product!" i-tab is a revolutionary new pocket sized unit, that sits on the end of a guitar, allowing guitar players of all levels to scroll chords and lyrics in perfect time. The newly shipped itab models include the latest upgrades: choice of screen background colours, choice of text colour (yellow, green or red) and the most recent new feature an audible click track playable through headphones. The i-tab comes with 30 free song tabs including U2 (Beautiful Day), Oasis (Wonderwall) and The Rolling Stones (Jumping Jack Flash). These can be added to from the vast online Tab Store www.i-tab.com which features 1000s of tracks you can download onto its 4GB memory. i-tab is now available at EU€149 at all good music stores. See www.i-tab.com. GRAND DESIGN PROMOTE CURRENT ALBUM WITH NEW VIDEO CLIP:

 

 

Friday, May 14, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE THE ANTICIPATED YOSO DEBUT ALBUM: Napoli, May, 2010 – The term "Super-Group" can only describe the band arising out of two of the most creative bands of the past 30 years: Yoso is formed out of TOTO's brilliant lead vocalist Bobby Kimball and the creative force of former Yes members, Tony Kaye and Billy Sherwood, thus equalling the magic of Yes with the voice of Toto. However, Yoso is much more than a combination of two classic rock groups. The band's debut album Elements - which comes together with a bonus live CD where the band plays some old and new classics – presents a fascinating combination of the sound of Yes ("90125"/"Big Generator" era) and TOTO, with a very interesting and original sound that truly encompasses the styles. Elements will see the light of day on July 2 in Europe and July 27 in the USA, where the band has already scheduled a number of tour dates in support of the album's release, on Frontiers Records. Even though the band's heritage is from 2 classic bands, Yoso intends to become its own identifiable entity in a very short time, Yoso's collective mission is to make the next decade one where Yoso's music will be held up alongside their classic rock backgrounds as a band as important as Toto and Yes. Billy Sherwood recalls: "Yoso was started when I suggested to Bobby Kimball we should write some new music and form a band, we had been working together on various tribute projects I was producing and one thing lead to another, before too long we had 5 songs in the can and were well on our way to making a record and thinking seriously about taking it to the next level. Once there was a few songs underway the concept grew into the band we now have, " Yoso ". Yoso line-up was later rounded out with two amazingly gifted musicians: Johnny Bruhns as the guitarist and background vocalist and Scott Conner on drums, percussion and background vocals. Yoso does indeed have the magic of YES and the voice of TOTO. However, in 2010 the band intends to convince fans of both bands that the brilliance of Yoso will be just as celebrated in the years to come. "Elements" tracklisting includes: Yoso; Path To Your Heart; Where You'll Stay; Walk Away; The New Revolution; To Seek The Truth; Only One; Close The Curtain; Won't End Tonight; Come This Far; Time To Get Up; Return To Yesterday. Bonus live CD: Yoso; Rosanna; Owner of a Lonely Heart; Walk Away; Good For You; Yes Medley (Yours Is No Disgrace/Heart of the Sunrise/South Side of the Sky/Starship Trooper/I've Seen All Good People); To Seek the Truth; Hold The Line; Cinema; Gift With a Golden Gun; White Sister. More song streaming, live clips and info available on: www.myspace.com/yosohq. Yoso - US Tour dates (more TBA) 11 August - Keswick Theatre, Glenside, PA 12 August - The State Theatre, Falls Church, VA 15 August - Ramshead Tavern (Ramshead Onstage), Annapolis, MD 17 August - B.B. King's Blues Club and Grill, New York, NY 19 August - Kent Stage, Kent, OH 20 August - Syndicate Dinner Theatre, Newport, Ky 21 August - Lake Clementia Amphitheatre, Rancho Murieta, CA Weblinks: www.myspace.com/Yosohq / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx EDEN'S CURSE RELEASE NEW SINGLE: Multinational melodic rock band Eden's Curse have released a digital single of their ballad "Man Against The World" with 100% of the profits being donated towards two charities – shelter.org.uk in the UK and feedthechildren.org in the USA. Songwriter Paul Logue commented "We receive emails from our fans time and time again, but none moved me more than the one I received from Jared Hochstettler. He put together a montage on You Tube featuring some really powerful images of homeless men, women and children. It stopped me dead in my tracks and made me think about how fortunate I am. Right there and then I decided to do something about it and I'm delighted to gain the support of my band mates, record labels and Music By Mail in Germany, who assisted us with launching the track onto the worldwide portals, with a view to raising some money to help Shelter and Feed The Children". "I urge everyone to simply watch the video and if you feel as moved as I did buy the download and do your bit to help ease the suffering of those less fortunate than ourselves" Logue added. "Man Against The World" is available to buy NOW from all major digital retailers such as iTunes, Amazon, Napster and also the popular rock digital download site www.MusicByMail.com. To watch an updated version of Jared Hochstettler's video click here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=40zu-AOcCb4. Shelter Website: shelter.org.uk / Feed The Children website: feedthechildren.org / Eden's Curse website: edenscurse.com.   RATT TO INFEST THE U.S. ALL SUMMER LONG: Press Release / Iconic '80s hard rockers Ratt plan to Ratt 'n' Roll all summer long in support of their brand new album, Infestation. The record is their first studio effort in 11 years and has been met with universally positive praise and continues to gain momentum since its April 20 release, where it sold nearly 15,000 copies. The band will be on the road as part of their "World Infestation" tour, with dates planned from now through September. The band will continue headlining and well as touring with The Scorpions in July. Infestation debuted at #30 on the US Billboard Top 200 chart and #4 on the Top Hard Music chart. It is being hailed by many as one of the best albums of the band's storied career. Check out the video for the single, "Best of Me," which literally offers a sneak peek into the rock 'n' roll lifestyle. Ratt held an off-the-wall album release party on April 20, as the band descended upon their former stomping grounds at the Key Club on Sunset in their native LA. The sold-out show was packed to the rafters and made for a night of pure musical mayhem and good times that brought out diehard Ratt fans, porn stars and even musicians like Tom Morello and Atreyu. ARTISTdirect best summed up the evening, saying, "They could have played all night and we'd never have gotten bored." Ratt kicked off their current tour last week at Rams Head Live in Baltimore, MD. After touring Europe throughout June, they return to rock the States. All American dates are below. May 13 - Cubby Bear Lounge - Chicago, IL May 14 - Medina Entertainment Center - Medina, MN May 15 - 7 Flags Events Center - Clive, IA May 16 - The Cotillion - Wichita, KS May 18 – Depot- Salt Lake City, UT May 19 - Ogden Theatre - Denver, CO May 20 - Idaho Falls Civic Auditorium - Idaho Falls, ID May 23 - Pima County Fairgrounds - Tucson, AZ June 5 - Wendover Road Ride - Wendover, NV July 10 - Bridgestone Arena - Nashville, TN July 11- Mud Island Amphitheater - Memphis, TN July 15 - 37 Main - Buford, GA July 16 – Bayfront Park - Miami, FL July 17 – Ford Amphitheatre - Tampa, FL July19 – Mahalia Jackson Theater - New Orleans, LA July 21 – Nokia Live - Grand Prairie, TX July 23 – AT&T Center - San Antonio, TX July 25 – Zoo Amphitheatre - Oklahoma City, OK Aug 1 – Pacific Amphitheatre / FAIR - Costa Mesa, CA Aug 4 – Raley Field - Sacramento, CA Aug 13 – Scriba Town Inn Summer Concert - Oswego, NY Aug 14 – Atlantic City Hilton Resort Grand Theatre - Atlantic City, NJ Aug 20 – Northwoods Rock Rally - Glen Fora, WI Sept 4 – Speaking Rock Event Center – El Paso, TX For all news and updates, visit www.therattpack.com. Additionally, ticketless VIP packages are now available for Ratt at The Majestic Ventura Theatre on May 22nd! They are offered exclusively at Ratt ticketing. Ticketless VIP packages are also still available for Salt Lake City, Denver and Idaho Falls so get them while they last! NEW BUCKCHERRY ALBUM RELEASE DATE CONFIRMED: ALL NIGHT LONG DUE OUT AUGUST 3: Press Release / Hard rockers Buckcherry's brand new album All Night Long is now set for an August 3rd release in North America via original independent label, Eleven Seven Music. The band is currently in the studio putting the finishing touches on the record with producers Marti Frederiksen (Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Fuel) and guitarist/songwriter Keith Nelson. The first single from the new album, also entitled "All Night Long," will make its video premiere on Yahoo! on May 17th, the same day the top down summer anthem will be delivered to radio at the active rock, mainstream rock and alternative formats. As a thank you to their fans, Buckcherry recently offered the new single "All Night Long" as a free download on their website www.buckcherry.com and via Twitter and Facebook. The response was so overwhelming that Twitter had to temporarily shut down the free download because the requests overloaded the system. Tens of thousands of hits were felt on the new single in the first two days it was made available. Buckcherry frontman Josh Todd commented, "Our fans are rad and we send them props for helping to overload Twitter! We are really proud of the new songs and can't wait for everyone to hear the album." Radio has also embraced "All Night Long" from the free download, with early airplay in major markets such as Chicago, Detroit, Seattle and Phoenix. In other Buckcherry news, frontman Josh Todd guest-starred on the FOX's hit show "Bones" last month. Buckcherry will soon hit the road in North America to play select dates. Please see below for the itinerary. In their more than decade-long career, multi-platinum artists Buckcherry have established themselves as a definitive hard rock band with a massive presence at radio. Hits such as "Lit Up," "Crazy Bitch," and "Sorry" have propelled the band's sales to more than 3 million albums worldwide and have garnered Buckcherry two Grammy Nominations. Their most recent album, 2008's Black Butterfly, earned the band their first-ever Top Ten Billboard album debut, with the album coming in at #8. Black Butterfly was deemed the "Album Of The Year" by Entertainment Weekly and "Best Rock Album" by iTunes. May 28 Pryor,OK Rocklahoma/Pryor Creek Music 29 St. Albert, AB Rainmaker Rodeo June 16 Valentine, NE Rosebud Casino 18 Cedar Falls, IA Ticketcrusher Ampitheater 19 Burlington, IA Burlington Steamboat Days 23 Brookings, SD Swiftel Center 26 Green River, WY Stratton Myer's Park July 3 Greeley, CO Greeley Independence Stampede 15 Walker, MN Moondance Jam 17 Red Lodge, MT Beartooth Rally 29 Minot, ND North Dakota State Fair August 7 Winnipeg, MB Rock On The Range Canada 9 Sturgis, SD Buffalo Chip Campground 14 Madison, WI Willow Island 28 Grand Junction, CO Rock Jam For updated tour dates as they're announced and more information please visit: www.buckcherry.com. ROCK OF AGES TAKES ON CANADA. AUSTRALIA NEXT: Press Release / "Toronto is getting amplified as members of '80s hair bands descend on the city for the red-carpet opening of the hit musical "Rock of Ages." Mirvish Productions says tonight's guest list includes scores of acts, including Twisted Sister guitarist J.J. French, Jim Peterik (ex-Survivor) and Poison drummer Rikki Rocket. Also expected at the Royal Alexandra Theatre are members of Foreigner, Triumph, Prairie Oyster, Glass Tiger, Blue Rodeo, Parachute Club, Sloan, Platinum Blonde, Rough Trade and Anvil. Mirvish has also invited former "American Idol" finalist Constantine Maroulis, who starred in the Broadway production of "Rock of Ages" that earned five Tony Award nominations. Maroulis is also slated to perform in the after-party along with several other acts. The Toronto production of "Rock of Ages" stars Surrey, B.C., native Elicia MacKenzie and Yvan Pedneault, who hails from Sept-Iles, Que. MacKenzie, 24, plays Sherrie, an aspiring actress who moves from Kansas to Los Angeles to make it in show business. Pedneault plays her love interest, Drew, a young rock singer who works at a rock club on the Sunset Strip. WebLinks: www.rockofagesmusical.com. LAS VEGAS HILTON TO HOST PHOTO EXHIBITION: Press Release / The Las Vegas Hilton is pleased to announce the May 21st Grand Opening of the "Knight Gallery" featuring Robert Knight, one of rock's most acclaimed photographers. A master lens man whose career spans four decades, his musical portraits and concert photography featuring legendary Rock & Roll artists including Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Elton John, Carlos Santana, Van Halen, Jeff Beck and hundreds more will now be available for sale. Robert Knight has been called a "Rock Prophet," a title given to him for his uncanny ability to find new talent.  Since 1968, Knight's photographs have served as testimony to the greatest moments in rock and roll history. His images are quintessential pieces of pop-culture mythology. His career includes working in the music industry for international record companies, publications, and musical equipment manufacturers. Robert and his partner/ wife Maryanne Bilham, an equally talented photographer, also maintain the exhibition of artists on the outside of more than 216 guitar centers around America. It remains one of the largest outdoor gallery shows of original photographic art on the planet. "We are just thrilled that Robert will be opening his gallery here at the Hilton" Ken Ciancimino, Executive Vice President of Administration, said. "His work is iconic and known all around the world. He has captured Rock & Roll history. And with the Hilton having such a long & rich Rock & Roll history too, there is a perfect synergy in this partnership." In addition to the gallery, Knight's work will be seen around the property in various locations to include the newly re-branded "Tremolo Bar" located within the Hilton Showroom. "I am ecstatic about joining the Las Vegas Hilton family," Robert Knight said. "To share my work in the very hotel where Elvis sold out more than 800 shows is a complete honor. I am looking forward to hosting and creating some fun experiences with my rock friends when they are in Las Vegas at the gallery." Robert Knight is also the subject of a soon to be released movie, Rock Prophecies www.rockprophesies.com, which explores Robert's amazing career and follows him on his quest to help the bands of today become the Rock legends of tomorrow.  And, his musical portraits and concert photography are also chronicled by Insight Editions' lavish coffee table book, "Rock Gods" insighteditions.com/product_info.php which features insightful commentary by the veteran rock image maker. The hours of operations for the studio at the Las Vegas Hilton will be as follows: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 11 p.m. For more information on Robert Knight or the Knight Gallery please visit robertmknight.net or lvhilton.com. NAUGHTY BOYS WIN NORDIC ROCK SLOT: Press Release / "Naughty Boys is officially confirmed to play at Nordic Rock 2010! We in the band wanna send a big thank you to all of you who voted for us! So again – thank you! We had over 2000 votes *smile* so to all of you who forwarded the "vote e-mail" to friends or contacts, please also forward this; we wanna show our gratitude to all that helped us get this opportunity! So on May the 29tat 9pm, Naughty Boys enter the Nordic Rock stage! 45min before Skid Row and 2 hours before Europe! (Hallelujah)" WebLink: www.nordicrock.se/naughtyboys.cfm / www.naughtyboys.se. CHRIS LANEY LIVE ON AIR: On this weeks Hair Metal Haven, Chris Nelson will be talking to world class producer Chris Laney about his new album Only Come Out At Night, his recent projects including Randy Pipers Animal, Steevi Jaimz etc, and his hectic plans for the next 12 months. Also on the show Chris will be talking to Stockholm Rock Out organiser Chris Lemon about the highs and lows of putting together a major festival. So join Chris Nelson this Saturday 15th May 17.00-19.00GMT 18.00-20.00CET on www.phoenixradio.co.uk. METALLICA SELL OUT OZ DATES IN ONE DAY: Metallica's World Magnetic Tour 2010 of Australia has sold out. Tickets went on general sale this morning at 9am local time, selling out almost immediately. All 13 shows were sold out in just over an hour, a total of more than 215,000 tickets, making it the fastest selling and most successful arena tour of 2010. Taking to the stage for more than two hours Metallica will feature material drawn from throughout their career including their current album Death Magnetic, performing in the round in the centre of the arena, on a custom built stage and with their full world tour production. During the last decade alone Metallica have played to a collective audience of more than 3.5 million people. Currently on tour in Europe, the Australian dates mark the culmination of their world tour – which began in October 2008 - and will be Metallica's first Australian shows since January 2004. SATCH LIVE IN THE UK: Press Release / Joe Satriani, one of rock music's most renowned electric guitarists, undertakes a six date UK tour from Sunday 17th October at the Manchester Apollo. Tickets go on sale from Friday May 14th and can be purchased from the National Credit Card Hotline - 0844 888 9991 or www.ticketline.co.uk. Very special guest is the critically acclaimed Belfast-based blues guitarist Simon McBride. The tour coincides with the release of Satriani's 11th studio album. Click here to read the official online press release: www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/kennedy_street/JoeSatriani.html. Joe Satriani has been a worldwide guitar hero since his 1987 breakthrough album, Surfing With The Alien. Over 10-million albums and CD's later, in addition to 14 Grammy nominations and numerous accolades Joe continues to push the envelope of modern rock guitar playing. Although he originally started his career by teaching some of the top rock guitar players of the '80s and '90s like Metallica's Kirk Hammet and virtuoso Steve Vai, Joe Satriani is universally hailed as one of the most technically accomplished and respected guitar players in the history of rock music. Satriani, who cites Jimi Hendrix as a major influence, quickly established his reputation as one of rock's most important guitarists. In 2009 Satriani teamed up with Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony of Van Halen plus Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers) to form Chickenfoot. Their debut album became a global hit and received gold awards in the US, Canada and Europe, while Classic Rock Magazine voted them Best New Band of 2009. PETER FRAMPTON'S THANK YOU MR. CHURCHILL RELEASED IN HIGH RES VIA HDTRACKS: Press Release / Following his Grammy® Award-winning instrumental album, 2006's Fingerprints, Peter Frampton returns this spring with Thank You Mr. Churchill (A&M/New Door/UMe) on April 27, his most personal collection to date. Download the new album in pristine, DVD-audio-quality 96kHz/24-bit audio on HDtracks.com. The 11-song set, co-produced and co-engineered by Frampton, features the legendary guitarist at his most incisive, lyrically, as he tackles the battles that wage within us and the outside forces that rage around us. His searing guitar work flows over every song, setting the mood. Nowhere is this clearer than on Churchill's centerpiece, the evocative, two-part, eight-minute instrumental, "Suite: Liberté." "This album is very autobiographical," Frampton said. "It starts with my birth, for which I thank Mr. Churchill for bringing my father back from the Second World War." Recorded at Frampton's home studio in Cincinnati, Ohio, Churchill is deeply intimate, weaving tales of loss, love and redemption and the lessons learned along the way. Churchill also includes Frampton's reflective take on troubling world events, including the Wall Street bailout ("Restraint") and the tragic case of Megumi Yokota, a Japanese girl kidnapped more than 30 years ago in North Korea ("Asleep At The Wheel"). Frampton wrote all the tracks on Churchill, penning many with longtime collaborator Gordon Kennedy. His co-producer/co-engineer, Chris Kimsey, was the engineer on Frampton's first solo record, 1972's Wind of Change. It marked the first time the two, who reunited via Facebook, have worked together in 30 years. Co-engineer Don Gunn (Death Cab For Cutie) also contributes to Churchill. Guests include Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron, who also played on Fingerprints, and the legendary Funk Brothers, who appear on Frampton's Motown homage, "Invisible Man." Frampton remains one of the most celebrated artists and guitarists in rock history. At 16, he was lead singer and guitarist for British teen band The Herd. At 18, he co-founded one of the first super groups, the seminal rock act Humble Pie. His fifth solo album, the electrifying Frampton Comes Alive!, is one of the top-selling live records of all time. GARY TALKS EXTREME: Hard Rock Hideout had the privilege recently to catch up with Gary Cherone. Gary talks about the reuniting of Extreme, the new DVD "Take Us Alive", the now classic "More Than Words" ballad & his true feelings of being the lead singer for Van Halen. HRH: Gary, what is the Extreme Rock 'N' Roll story behind "Take Us Alive"? Gary Cherone: It's our first live CD/DVD, the story behind it is surprisingly, after a thirteen year break, we have never played or felt stronger. "Take Us Alive" documents the 2009 tour and covers the full spectrum of the Extreme catalog of albums. HRH: Seeing the fans sing the lyrics to "More Than Words" on "Take Us Alive" gave me those good and cool chills, did it have an effect on you while on stage? Gary Cherone: Absolutely! This song has been a blessing and a curse over the years for Extreme. The band resented this song for a while because it was the one and sometimes only song people knew from us. We learned to embrace it though, now it's a special song to us. After thirteen years, coming back to see the fans sing along to it live, every night, makes for one of the highlights of the night. HRH: Were there any vintage, live Rock albums over the years, that influenced you to one day make a live Extreme album? Gary Cherone: You are absolutely the first writer to ask this question and I've been waiting for this! KISS "I" and "II", Cheap Trick "at Budokan", The Who "Live At Leeds", and The J. Geils Band had three terrific live albums. There are too many of them really, to mention. Just recently, I was sending emails to the guys saying, "hey, we finally have our KISS Alive out! It's exciting after all these years to to have our live album. We recorded the show in Boston, at the House of Blues, it's our hometown and it meant a lot to us to have it filmed there. HRH: Gary, "Last Hour" from "Saudades de Rock" I point to as a career highlight for you vocally. Did you reach for any personal emotion to record this song? Gary Cherone: Thank you very much. "Last Hour" is one of my favorites on this record. I always start on a personal level then lyrically go in different directions. I try to translate emotion onto tape. Steve Perry, (Journey), he came a few times during the making of "Saudades de Rock". This was the only song Steve Perry hung out with us on in the control room. Read the full interview at the following link: hardrockhideout.com/2010/05/10/gary-cherone-of-extreme-the-hard-rock-hideout-interview. INTRODUCING SHOOTING HEMLOCK: Press Release / We are pleased to announce that the hard edged supergroup Shooting Hemlock, has signed with Dark Star Records. Shooting Hemlock Was the brainchild of manager Brad Keene Who had worked with guitar player Joe Stump (Boston Mass.) on his solo projects. Brad wanted to put together a band comprised of members from different regions of the country, and with the addition of Jeff Tortora (Blue Man Group) and Jimmy Puma (Syracuse, NY) Brad had the monster rhythm section he had been searching for. Both Jeff and Jim were playing with Joey Belladonna from Anthrax at that time, and for one reason or another that didn't work out. Brad then set his sights on a lead vocalist to fill the last remaining slot in the line up, enter Brian Troch (Chicago IL.), who just had left the Band Cyclone Temple. What ensued was a mixture of styles and influences that made a very different but awesome sound. The band wrote all their material via mail and e-mail and flew into one central location (Boston) to rehearse, do pre production work and record the actual tracks, Brian would eventually move to Boston and the project was finished. After many years in the making, Dark Star Records now brings you Big Green Monster. The full length album is now available at hundreds of online digital retailers including itunes as of 05/11/10. itunes.apple.com/us/album/big-green-monster/id370086160. Shooting Hemlock is: Brian Troch (Vocals), Joe Stump (Guitars), Jeff Tortora (Drums), Jimmy Puma (Bass) WebLinks: www.myspace.com/shootinghemlock / www.darkstarrecords.com. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new live shows: - Kiss - Live Ipswich Gaumont 1984 - Scorpions - Hannover, Germany 1984 - D.A.D. - Fredericia, Denmark 1995 - Icehouse - Ritz Theatre, New York, USA 1986 - Paul Young - Wembley Stadium, London, England 1987 MR-X Membership Details. New exclusive downloads, rarities and video clips coming up!

 

 

Thursday, May 13, 2010

DOUBLE BADLANDS TREAT: These releases are available immediately from the Rock Candy website (www.rockcandyrecords.com) for a discounted price of £11.99 each ending May 17. Badlands 'S/T' CANDY071 - The list of bands that should have made the big time, set against those who actually did, is one of life's great mysteries. Badlands are a prime example of a group that seemingly had it all in the palm of their hand yet somehow, through no fault of their own, managed to spectacularly underachieve. By rights, if acclaim and good fortune depended on sheer talent alone then Badlands really ought to have bathed in both gold and glory. Formed at the tail end of the late 80's by super-guitarist Jake E. Lee, fresh from a massively successful tenure with Ozzy Osbourne, together with hugely talented vocalist Ray Gillen, ironically a former vocalist with Ozzy's old band Black Sabbath, drummer Eric Singer (also a one time member of Black Sabbath) and bassist Greg Chaisson (from Steeler, one of Yngwie Malmsteen's first bands), Badlands looked set to become one of the brightest lights on the scene. Signed to Atlantic Records and recorded in both Los Angeles and New York, the debut Badlands album is a blistering endorsement of the bands desire to resurrect the earthy blues rock sound of the early 70's by taking their cue from such ground shakers as Led Zeppelin and Cream, yet adding a contemporary side-order of melody and muscle. The results were astonishing. This album, originally released in 1989, side-swiped the competition by a considerable margin, separating them from the run-of-the-mill hair-band milieu, whilst opening up a world of possibilities that should have propelled them to international stardom. Track Listing: 1. High Wire 2. Dreams In The Dark 3. Jade's Song 4. Winter's Call 5. Dancing On The Edge 6. Streets Cry Freedom 7. Hard Driver 8. Rumblin' Train 9. Devil's Stomp 10. Seasons Bonus Track: 11. Ball & Chain. Badlands 'Voodoo Highway' CANDY072 - Unquestionably, Badlands were one of the brightest lights on the hard rock scene during the late 80's and early 90's. A mini supergroup of sorts (Jake E Lee from Ozzy Osbourne's band, Ray Gillen and Eric Singer from Black Sabbath), they had seduced fans and critics alike with their debut album, confident earthy blues rock performed with a sway and swagger that suggested it was just a matter of time before the band would achieve international fame and fortune. Behind the scenes, however, things were not going well. Volatile personalities started to rip the group apart, with drummer Eric Singer being the first casualty on a conveyor belt of heartache and turmoil. It's a wonder then that 'Voodoo Highway', originally released in 1991, proved to be such a magnificent follow up to their acclaimed debut. Crammed to the brim with solid yet melodic hard rock, the material is faithful to the band's original concept and co-opts the best of the early seventies, lacing it with the sound of futuristic blues. Sadly, the band's combustible contents created a final rift that would scupper any chances of them continuing. Final concert dates, undertaken in the UK, proved to be a disaster, with singer Ray Gillen and guitarist Jake E Lee vowing never to work with each other again. The band's legacy, however, has continued to gather momentum with many quite rightly citing 'Voodoo Highway' as the pinnacle of their creative achievements. Track Listing: 1. The Last Time 2. Show Me The Way 3. Shine On 4. Whiskey Dust 5. Joe's Blues 6. Soul Stealer 7. 3 Day Funk 8. Silver Horses 9. Love Don't Mean A Thing 10. Voodoo Highway 11. Fire And Rain 12. Heaven's Train 13. In A Dream.   xx DAVID REECE JOINS TANGO DOWN: Tango Down came onto the scene a few years ago, with their blend of in your face guitars and BIG vocal harmonies. After 2 albums Tango Down has merged forces with vocalist, David Reece (of Bangalore Choir and Accept fame). Scott Miller had this to say, "We couldn't be happier with having David being involved with us. The new album is going to Kill! We are going to venture into some new territories, but not without changing our sound drastically. You can bet, that this is the album you have been waiting for from us! David is a monster singer and you are going to see how monster he is on the new album." David adds: "When I was contacted if I'd be interested in doing Dakota Rock Fest singing with Tango Down. I wasnt sure, until i heard the bands material. I was blown away and accepted immediately! Scott and I have been exchanging ideas for a new Tango Down record which is really coming together nicely. Scott knows how to write great tunes. We think alike musically, in that Big guitars,bass and drums sounds. Ofcourse , lets not forget the BIG vocals! This record, will include all of these ingredients. Which will result in a batch of hook laden songs. This summer and fall is one to watch out for...! Tango Down on tour this summer and a new record this fall! Can't wait to see you guys out this summer!!" While working with Tango Down, David, will still be committed to his work with Bangalore Choir. Theres plenty of him to go around and he has alot to say. Doing both bands, along with his solo material allows David to stay fresh and not be pigeon holed. So look out for David Reece and Tango Down this coming year. It will be one full of good music and good times!! Tango Down Dates: July 25th Sioux Falls South Dakota (Dakota Rock Fest) July 29th Chicopee Ma (Maximum Capacity) Aug 4th TBA Aug 6th Poughkeepsie NY with Y+T (Chance Theater) JOE ELLIOTT TO GIVE AWAY DOWN N OUT RELEASE: Def Leppard singer Joe Elliott's album with the Quireboys will be given away free with next month's Classic Rock magazine. Joe Elliott's Down 'n' Outz was formed to pay tribute to Mott the Hoople at the iconic band's UK reunion shows last year. The band went down so well they decided to stay together and record an album of material related to Mott and its members. The result, My Re-Generation, will be released in July. But first it'll be available free with June's edition of Classic Rock. The full band lineup is Elliott (vocals, guitar, keys), Paul Guerin (guitar), Guy Griffin (guitar), Keith Weir (keys) and Phil Martini (drums) – all members of the Quireboys – plus bassist Ronnie Garrity. Track listing: 1. Golden Opportunity (Ian Hunter) 2. Storm (Mott) 3. Overnight Angels (Ian Hunter) 4. Career (No Such Thing As Rock 'N' Roll) (Mott) 5. England Rocks (Ian Hunter) 6. Shouting And Pointing (Mott) 7. By Tonight (Mott) 8. Who Do You Love (Ian Hunter) 9. One More Chance To Run (British Lions) 10. Good Times (Mott, originally recorded by The Easybeats). Joe Elliott's Down'n'Outz will appear at Classic Rock's High Voltage festival in London on July 24-25. Elliott recently laughed off rumours that Def Lep were splitting up, saying: "We often say to each other, 'What else would we do?'" ArticleLink: www.rockradio.co.uk/rock-news/free-joe-elliott-cd-with-classic-rock/bux2nhec.   THIN LIZZY DEBUT NEW LINE-UP WITH UK DATES: And while Joe keeps busy with his project, Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell has found himself a gig for 2010 - with Thin Lizzy. Thin Lizzy has confirmed a 2011 U.K. tour featuring the new line-up of: Scott Gorham (guitar); Darren Wharton (keyboards); Brian Downey (drums); Marco Mendoza (bass); Viv Campbell (guitar); Ricky Warwick (guitar, vocals). Tour dates are as follows: Jan. 06 - Aberdeen - Music Hall Jan. 07 - Glasgow - O2 Academy Jan. 08 - Newcastle - City Hall Jan. 10 - Leeds - O2 Academy Jan. 11 - Llandudno - Theatre Jan. 12 - Leicester - De Montfort Hall Jan. 14 - Wolverhampton - Civic Hall Jan. 15 - Manchester - Apollo Jan. 16 - Bristol - Colston Hall Jan. 18 - Southampton - Guildhall Jan. 19 - Ipswich - Regent Jan. 21 - Cambridge - Corn Exchange Jan. 22 - Hammersmith - London, HMV Apollo 7TH HEAVEN PLAYS WITH BON JOVI & KID ROCK: 7th heaven will open for Bon Jovi & Kid Rock. "Thanks for everyone who voted! Because of all of you 7th heaven has taken 1st place in the Bon Jovi Contest and it is now confirmed that 7th heaven will be opening for Bon Jovi & Kid Rock at Soldier Field on Friday July 30, 2010. Thanks again to all who voted for us! Thanks for all your continued support. We love playing and as long as you keep coming out to see us play, we'll continue to be there." - Richard Hofherr, 7th heaven - www.7thheavenband.com. BLACK MAJESTY LICENSED TO JUST SAY ROCK FOR AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND/FAR EAST ASIA: Just Say Rock is proud to announce the signing of a license deal with Limb Music Germany for the release of Black Majesty's latest, newest and best release to date; "In Your Honour" for Australia, New Zealand and Far East Asia. Pre-Order the new Black Majesty album 'In Your Honour' from Just Say Rock and get a SIGNED copy of the album sent out to you the day it is released! Web link below: www.justsayrock.com.au. In Your Honour is scheduled to be released in Europe on May 14 through Limb Music and on the same date in Australia, New Zealand & Far East Asia through Just Say Rock/Limb Music. The U.S release date is set for the July 13 out through ADA/Warner. Black Majesty's German label Limb Music have put a full new song from their forthcoming album 'In Your Honour' up free for people to download to give everyone a taste of what's to come at: www.limb-music.de/cgi-bin/limb.cgi?page=HOME. WebLinks: www.blackmajesty.com / www.myspace.com/blackmajesty. KISS KISS AND KISS: An interesting article on Kiss from the UK newsdesk of the BBC. Link for the full article below, but some highlights include: "You can be three or 73 and a Kiss fan," declares guitarist Paul Stanley. "Our fans are celebrating our jubilant approach to life and the fact we don't take rubbish from anybody and you can come out a winner. So they're an army, they're a team, they're a tribe, and as time goes on we become more iconic. Even with a change of member the band become stronger and it shows that nothing can stop Kiss." The original line up of Simmons, Stanley, Ace Frehley and drummer Peter Criss put on face paint to create four characters - Demon, Starchild, Spaceman and Catman. It's endured and become a trademark. This year they released their first studio album for 11 years, Sonic Boom. It's been acclaimed for its "original and youthful" 70s sound - possibly something to do with the band using analogue tapes for the recording. "We did such a successful tour two years ago and the band never felt better," explains Stanley. "And there came a time when we looked at each other and thought it shouldn't just be about celebrating our past, and it was time to write another chapter. Sonic Boom is arguably the best thing we've done in 25 years. It's four people going into the studio and committing to making a great album. You can't make a great record when you're going, 'How can this band make me more famous?' You've got to think: 'How can I pay tribute to this great institution? And I believe Sonic Boom is a classic album - it's not a retro album at all." "Without our fans we're nothing," says Simmons. "There is a relationship and love and respect between fan and band that is unequalled. Paul Stanley is full of appreciation for the British music scene "On the other hand they have the highest expectation. If you think you can go out there, sit on a rug and strum a few songs on an acoustic guitar, good luck to you." The fans may love it, but gigs can be an endurance test for the band. Running round in armour and stacked heels is hard at any age - but Simmons is now 60 years old. "Try walking around in these for two and a half hours," he says, pointing to his enormous boots. "This is not a sympathy ploy, by the way. We're proud of our energy, we welcome any band that has the courage to get on stage with us. U2, Rolling Stones - we like you very much. Come play with us." Simmons may also be a reality TV star - his family are in the Gene Simmons Family Jewels series on US TV - but by far the most lucrative part of Kiss's career has been their merchandising. They are the number one merchandise band in the world - selling everything from dolls of themselves, to snooker cues, rubber ducks and even branded coffee. They also helpfully sell fridges which can double up as a coffin for devoted members of the Kiss Army. As Simmons once remarked: "Planet Kiss sounds a lot better than Planet Earth." "Our job is to give the fans what they want," argues Stanley. "It would be selfish of us not to. When other bands complain about what we do, it's because they're so damn boring that nobody wants one of their T-shirts or a doll or a Mr Potato Head, whatever. We work in a way that if you don't like the merch, don't get it." ArticleLink: news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment_and_arts/10105684.stm. And in further Kiss news: "A 37-year-old vintage KISS concert poster from the band's New York club days is being auctioned online. The poster was hand-designed by founding KISS member Paul Stanley and was printed in 1973 by a friend of the band's original drummer, Peter Criss. The three performances advertised on the poster took place over Labor Day Weekend 1973, at the legendary Coventry nightclub in Queens, New York. The 800-seat club catered to the underground New York Glam Rock scene of the early 1970s and bands such as the New York Dolls, KISS and even Cyndi Lauper all got their start at Coventry. These late summer concerts were the final time KISS performed live, prior to recording their first album, which was released five months later, in February 1974. The poster was found in the collection of one of KISS's very first roadies. An actual picture from the 1973 Coventry concerts advertised on the poster can be seen below. The auction can be viewed here: search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZeliteworks." And even more Kiss news: "With a rumored Minnesota State Fair gig and the already confirmed shows in WY and ND, looks like it is the KISS State Fair 2010 tour... KISS will make its Indiana State Fair debut Aug. 9 at the Hoosier Lottery Grandstand. Tickets for the concert go on sale 10 a.m. Friday. Admission prices are $70, $59 and $45 plus applicable fees. Fair admission is included with tickets. Through midnight Sunday or while supplies last, a buy-one-get-one-free ticket offer applies to $45 seats in the upper grandstand. Tickets will be available at the fairgrounds box office, 1202 E. 38th St., by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling (800) 745-3000. KISS Army, stay tuned... details of a KISSonline presale will be coming soon!" BOBBY BLOTZER ON AIR: Ratt founding Member Bobby Blozter will be the special guest this Saturday (May 15, 2010) on the FDP Show, 6-8 pm EST only on JFL Radio. The 1980s Rock Legends have reinvented their sound by rediscovering their strengths, shuttling listeners to a time when metal ruled the earth and real musicians wore eyeliner like a badge of honor. Debuting at #30 on the Billboard 200 Album Charts, Ratt's first studio album in 11 years, Infestation, is raking in the rave reviews. One reviewer remarked "Not only has Infestation exceeded my expectations, it completely blew them out of the water! This may just be Ratt's best album since 1986's Dancing Undercover, as it captures the band's signature sound perfectly and is heavier and dirtier than either Reach For The Sky or Detonator." Earlier this year, Blotzer also released Tales of a RATT, a book that traces his journey as an 80s rock legend. "This book is the backstage story that all fans of 80s rock have always longed to hear, but have never heard." The Pig will also introduce fans to Ohio's indie sensation, Killing Chloe. With an unyielding rhythmic core, this group brings a new approach to the rock music scene. The Fabulous Dancing Pig Show, is a is a fast-paced radio variety show sure to leave you wanting more (or searching for your lawyer's number). Packed with comedy skits, special studio guests and interviews, The Fabulous Dancing Pig Show is truly a GUILTY pleasure.. Join The Pig, along his long-time associates Alligator Jackson and TJ Dawg, Saturdays 6-8 pm only on JFL Radio. The show broadcast digitally on JFL Radio via Nokia Mobile, Stream Finder, iTunes (Classic Rock) and other digital outlets. The show is also accessible from any cellphone via UpSnap (call 704.772.7627 and enter code 3055). H.E.A.T FREEDOM ROCK TOUR U.K 2010: H.E.A.T Freedom Rock Tour UK 2010 Special guests Neonfly on all shows. Saturday 22nd May - Rock City, Nottingham www.alt-tickets.com www.seetickets.com Sunday 23rd May - The Gaff, London www.wegottickets.com Monday 24th May - JBs, Dudley www.jbsdudley.co.uk 01384 253597 Tuesday 25th May - Corporation, Sheffield www.seetickets.com Wednesday 26th May - Day & Night Cafe, Manchester www.ticketline.co.uk   BLACK LABEL SOCIETY ORDER MORE BLACK: Berserkers of the universe, the wait will soon come to an end: the new BLS opus will drop in less than four months now. Black Label Society's brand new album is officially confirmed for an August 9TH Australia and New Zealand release date. 'Order Of The Black' will feature Black Label Society at its best with frontman/lead axeman Zakk Wylde's signature guitar virtuosity and howling vocals, as well as a propulsive rhythm section, courtesy of bassist J.D. Deservio and drummer Will Hunt, along with a few surprises. Wylde commented in jest, "The Doom Crew and I have been holed up in the Black Label Society Bunker for the last few months laying down some of the heaviest, sexiest tracks imaginable. We can't wait for Berserkers worldwide to hear the symphonic masterpiece that is the new BLS record!" 'Order Of The Black' will be released in Australia and New Zealand via Riot Entertainment. Zakk Wylde and his Black Label Society have become a worldwide phenomenon with die-hard fans all across the globe (affectionately referred to as "Berserkers") sporting signature BLS gear – leather vests, t-shirts, denim vests with patches, bandanas, etc. Wylde's international presence is at an all time high having recently returned from several hugely successful press junkets in China, Japan, Australia and Singapore. Sponsored by Gibson and Epiphone (makers of Wylde's signature guitars), these trips saw Wylde completing interviews with high-profile media outlets (print and television), as well as signing thousands of autographs at packed in-store events throughout Asia. In the two decades since Ozzy Osbourne hired him away from his job at a New Jersey gas station, Zakk Wylde has established himself as a guitar icon known and revered the world over. Writing and recording with Osbourne led to multi-platinum success, inspiring him to create the now legendary Black Label Society in 1998. In the decade plus since, BLS has turned the notion of what a rock band should be upside down by inspiring legions of fans (known as Berserkers) all over the world to follow the mantra: Strength, Determination, Merciless, Forever (SDMF for short). Wylde and his Berserkers have established a heavy metal institution true to the vision of uncompromising, unfiltered and unrestrained rock n' roll. Black Label Society will tour Australia in 2011 with dates to be confirmed! WebLinks: www.blacklabelsociety.com / www.zakkwylde.com. D DRIVE EXCITING TIMES AHEAD: It's an exciting time for D Drive, with the upcoming new album 3D, the addition of John Naro on guitars/vocals a new label and brand new fan friendly website. 3D is the long awaited follow up to "Straight Up The Middle" (2007) and is ready to be released in June. 3D is housed in a Special Limited Edition 3D digi pak designed by Scott Hamilton and is the band debut release on their new label Melodic Revolution Records. 3D was produced by Produced by Steve Major, Don Mancuso & D Drive. Recording Engineers Don Mancuso, Andy Knoll and Steve Major Mixed at Wellesley Sound Studio Toronto, Ontario, Canada by Steve Major and recorded at Recorded at The Porta Plant and Little Doggies Studio, Rochester, New York and Glass Mountain and Wellesley Sound Studio Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Mastered by Roger Lian at Master Disc. Roger is known for mastering albums for Stained, Smashing Pumpkins & Maddona among others. 3D features 11 new rockers including the first single Dig Down featuring the legendry bass player and long time friend of the band, Billy Sheehan / Talas Mr. Big, David Lee Roth. 3D can be pre-ordered from the bands website. Album Tracks: 1. Next Train 2. Dig Down (featuring Billy Sheehan) 3. Kiss the Ground 4. Chains On You 5. Never Had A Chance 6. Last To Fall 7. Down Deep 8. Always Done 9. 1 To 7 10. Tumblin 11. Welcome To My World. Plans for full blown tour are not yet certain but a handful of shows have been penciled in. July 24th Willow Creek New York August 20th Toronto, On, Canada August 21st Mississauga, On, Canada more dates will be announced in the near future on the bands website. D Drive is: Phil Naro (Talas, Peter Criss, 24k) Vocals & Guitar, Don Mancuso (Lou Gramm Band, Black Sheep, Cheater) Guitars Bass on Tumblin' and Down Deep & Vocals, John Taylor Bass on Next Train, 1 to 7, Welcome To My World and Last To Fall & Vocals, John Naro (The Rescue) Guitar & Vocals, Bobby Bond Drums & Percussion, Andy Knoll (Lou Gramm Band) Keyboards and Software Instruments. Special guest: Billy Sheehan (Talas, Mr. Big, Niacin) on Bass for Dig Down and Dave Daansen on Bass for Chains On You, Kiss The Ground and Never Had A Chance. WebLinks: melodicrevolution.com / www.ddrive.com / www.myspace.com/donmancuso.

 

 

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS ARTIST UPDATES AND TOUR DATES: Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the digital only release on May 14th of the new The Murder Of My Sweet single entitled Tonight. The song is taken from the recent album Divanity which was released on Frontiers Records in early 2010 in Europe and the USA. The single track listing includes the album version of "Tonight" (click on the title to hear a sample) plus two unreleased tracks Shivers Down My Spine and Another Dawn. The band is also scheduled to appear live in the forthcoming festivals: July 7 - Rock Weekend Festival, Söderhamn – Sweden September 9 - Raismes Festival, Raismes – France Some reviews gathered by the album "Divanity" include: "If you're looking for powerful female vocals and a phenomenal musical dream-come-true then this is the CD for you" – Rockeyez.com "This is a major release" - Soniccathedral.com "Strong debut" - Metalasylum.net "A formidable debut" - Dangerdog.com "An intoxicating metal opus" – EMP "Irresistible glamour and almost a dozen straight Hits" – Hammer (Germany) "The twelve songs are throughout high-class catchy tunes, without rubbish straight to the point, perfectly arranged and produced" – Rock Hard (Germany) "A massive piece of music showcasing TMOMS's dynamics with a sense of playfulness by switching from soft, rippling sounds and beats to limitless rage with beautiful melodies" – Rock Report Musical samples of The Murder Of My Sweet can be enjoyed in streaming on the band's website: www.themurderofmysweet.com.   Achim Kohler (Primal Fear. Sinner, Silent Force) has recently finished the mix of the third Allen / Lande album which will be entitled The Showdown. With songs once again written by guitar sensation Magnus Karlsson (now with Primal Fear), the two monster vocalists Jorn Lande (Masterplan) and Russell Allen (Symphony X) unite once again their talents in a fabulous new album that seems to be forged in the fires of Mayhem. "The Showdown" shows again that the musical direction will be Epic, grandiose and very melodic Hard Rocking music. The cover art was designed specifically for the project once again by the amazing Rodney Matthews. Frontiers looks set to release this new masterpiece in September. A videoclip for the song "Judgement Day" was shot in Scandinavia during April under the direction of Thomas Tjader (Saint Deamon, Issa). You can enjoy a trailer by clicking on the image below…   A Pretty Maids interview with Ken Hammer and Ronnie Atkins has been launched via YouTube on the Frontiers Records channel. The two band's masterminds present the forthcoming album Pandemonium out in Europe on May 14 and in the US on June 8.   Y&T Europe Tour June 10 Solvesborg, Sweden - Sweden Rock Festival June 12 Castle Donnington, Derby, UK - Download Festival June 13 Taino, Italy - Festa della Birra June 15 Koln, Germany – Underground Cologne June 16 Zwolle, Netherlands - Hedon June 17 Dordrecht, Netherlands - Bibelot June 19 Clisson, France - Hellfest September 27 ~ Belfast, N. Ireland - Spring & Airbrake September 28 ~ Dublin, Ireland - The Village September 30 ~ Cardiff, Wales, UK - Millennium Music Hall + special guest Tigertailz October 1 ~ Manchester, UK - Manchester Academy October 2 ~ Leeds, UK - Rio's Leeds October 7 ~ Glasgow, Scotland, UK - O2 Academy Glasgow October 8 ~ Newcastle, UK - O2 Academy Newcastle October 9 ~ Nottingham, UK - Rock City October 14 ~ Southampton, UK - The Brook October 15 ~ Birmingham, UK - O2 Academy Birmingham October 16 ~ London, UK - O2 Academy Islington October 28 ~ Prague, Czech Republic - Exit Chemelnice Music Hall October 29 ~ Aschaffenburg, Germany - Colos-Saal October 30 ~ Isernhagen, Germany - Blues Garage November 5 ~ Zaragoza, Spain - Sala Devizio November 6 ~ Valencia, Spain - Durango Club November 7 ~ Madrid, Spain - Sala Heineken + special guest Lynch Mob Lynch Mob – US Tour dates May 6 Santa Ana, CA – The Galaxy Theatre May 7 Tempe, AZ – Club Red May 8 West Hollywood, CA – Key Club July 25 Oklahoma City, OK – Zoo Amphiteatre July 28 Pittsburgh, PA – Altar Bar July 29 Sayerville, NJ – Starland Ballroom July 30 Springfield, VA - Jaxx July 31 New York, NY – The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza August 1 Farmingdale, NY – Crazy Donkey August 2 Binghampton, NY – The Hideout August 4 Middleton, WI – Scatz Nightclub August 6 Salt Lake City, UT – Club Vegas August 7 Sparks, NV – The New Oasis August 8 Fresno, CA – Tower Theatre August 11 Seattle, WA – Studio Seven August 13 Santa Rosa, CA – The Last Day Saloon August 14 Pueblo of Acoma, NM – Sky City Amphiteatre October 30/31 Firefest Nottingham UK November 2 Rockbar Fans Sofia, Bulgaria November 3 A38 Ship Budapest, Hungary November 6 De Bosuil Weert, Netherlands November 7 Sala Heiniken Madrid, Spain + Y&T November 9 Sala Apollo 2 Barcelona, Spain November 10 Atelier Luxembourg, Luxembourg November 11 Szene Vienna, Austria November 12 Z7 Rockfabrik Pratteln, Switzerland November 14 Matrioska Club Modena, Italy November 18 Sticky Fingers Goteborg, Sweden November 19 Sigurdsgatan 25 Vasteras, Sweden November 20 Gamla,Grensen 1, Oslo, Norway Brian Howe – US Tour dates May 7 Broken Spoke New Orleans Louisiana June 5 Hollywood Casino Bangor Bangor Maine June 12 Kissimee Bike Fest Kissimmee Florida June 25 Joplin Memorial Hall Joplin Missouri June 26 Salina Bicentennial Center Salina Kansas June 30 Inner Harbor Syracuse New York July 3 Hogan Park/26th Annual Rancho Cordova 4th of July Rancho Cordova California July 18 Clay's Park Rockin Resort N. Lawrence Ohio July 22 Bike N ight at Stearns Square Springfield Massachusetts July 30 Lucas Co. Fairgrounds Maumee Ohio September 4 Montbleu Casino Resort Lake Tahoe Nevada Vanden Plas 28 May 2010 Frankfurt, Germany - Spritzehaus 29 May 2010 Munich, Germany - Backstage 3 June 2010 Bad Kreuznach, Germany – Brückes Asia Aug 2nd - Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, New Bedford, MA Aug 3rd - Birchmere, Alexandria VA Aug 5th - Penn's Peak, Jim Thorpe PA Aug 6th - Theatre at Westbury, Westbury NY Aug 7th - Showboat. Atlantic City NJ Aug 8th - Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield CT Aug 10th - Bergen PAC, Englewood, NJ Aug 12th - Market Block Party, Syracuse, NY Aug 13th - House of Blues, Cleveland, OH Aug 14th - Armory, Rochester, NY Aug 15th - Carnegie Hall of Homestead, Pittsburgh, PA Aug 17th - Memorial Auditorium, Raleigh, NC Aug 18th - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta, GA Aug 20th - House of Blues, Dallas, TX Aug 21st - House of Blues, Houston, TX Aug 22nd - Paramount Theatre, Austin, TX Aug 25th - Celebrity Theatre, Phoenix, AZ Aug 26th - Veijas Casino at DreamCatcher, Alpine, CA Aug 27th - Club Nokia, Los Angeles, CA Aug 28th - The Grove, Anaheim, CA Aug 29th - The Uptown, Napa, CA Sep 1st - Laxon Auditorium, Chico, CA Sep 2nd - Fox Theatre, Bakersfield, CA Sep 3rd - Ovation at Green Valley Resort & Spa, Henderson, NV Sep 4th - Peppermill Casino, Wendover, NV Sep 5th - Nugget Casino, Sparks, NV Sep 7th - Aladdin Theatre, Portland, OR Sep 8th - Moore Theatre, Seattle, WA Alan Parsons June 1, 2010 Paris, France - The Olympia September 10, 2010 Tarrytown, New York - Tarry Town Music Hall September 11, 2010 Bethlehem, Pennsylvania - Zoellner PAC Crazy Lixx May 13 - Borderline, Pisa, Italy May 14 – Snooky, Caldonazzo (TN), Italy May 15 – Mac 2, Schio (VI), Italy May 16 - Rock Club, Ronchi dei Legionari (GO), Italy May 21 - Rockstar's Wildside Festival - Berg 211, Göteborg, Sweden May 22 - Nu J*vlar Festival, Landskrona, Sweden June 5 - RockTheNight FEST III , Copenhagen, Denmark June 18 - Club Dirty Harry, Harry´s, Växjö, Sweden July 8 - Rockweekend Festival, Söderhamn, Sweden July 7 - Getaway Rock Festival, Gävle, Sweden August 27 - Skogsröjet, Rejmyre, Sweden October 29 - Firefest, Nottingham   Asia new album "Omega" entered the following National charts in the week of release: Norway - 67 / Germany - 56 / Switzerland - 55 It also entered the Top 200 in France at number 174 and is at # 13 in the UK indie album charts. Congratulations to everyone for the hard work! Extreme new DVD entered the national video charts in France as best entry, ranked 24th. Congratulations to everyone for the hard work!

 

 

Monday, May 10, 2010

Time to get back into the swing of things, with regular daily news updates to commence as normal from tomorrow – including a recap of all things missed over the last two weeks. First however, I wanted to answer a few questions asked about MelodicRockFest 2 since the event was completed last weekend. In terms of artist performances, fan enjoyment, venue suitability, sound and execution – MRF2 was an outstanding success. It was a joy to be there and watch everyone having a blast. I would like to personally thank all those that voted with their feet for a US based Melodic Rock music festival, who came along to witness some truly unbelievable performances and saw the very best the artists had to offer. I'd like to thank everyone who I spoke to over the weekend and who offered many a kind word about the festival itself, plus this website and what I do here. The encouragement and positive feedback was sensational. I need to thank the several volunteers who helped man the MR merch stand over the weekend – couldn't have done it without you. I would also like to thank management and staff of The Roadhouse and the sound and stage crew, all who were a joy to work with and who opened up their venue for 3 very long days of rock n roll. And last but not least, the artists that put up their hand to participate and answered the call to make up one of the best melodic rock line-ups ever to appear in one place at the same time. In terms of financial success, which I obviously was counting on to help guarantee the continued existence of MelodicRock.com, the results were not as pleasing. The fact is that not even this amazing line-up and extensive advertising online and locally could convince enough people to get off their couches for a day or two. I was hoping for 1000 per day, but we only got around 500 per day through the doors. Those 500 saw a killer show and had a weekend to remember, and were vocal enough for all the bands to think they were playing to 5000. But at the end of the day, the numbers simply weren't enough to guarantee there will definitely be a MRF3. I hope their can be and I'll consider all options, but when you think you've done everything right and have not repeated the mistakes of the first MRF, to get less people in attendance was a disappointment. The bottom line to all of this is yes, the show result does effect the day to day operation of MelodicRock.com as the financial state of the melodic rock scene has been in consistent free fall over the last 18 months. I have a 12 month plan of action to guarantee this site continues an uninterrupted service for all, which will result in a few changes, new advertisers and a few new ways people can help support the site and new features and products to indulge in. Coming up: – A complete list of new T-Shirts from MRF2 that can be ordered by those that couldn't make the show. This includes specific event shirt and a new generic MR/Wombat shirt. – MRCD7 – a new MelodicRock compilation. Any interested artists who want to participate, please e-mail now. – MRDVD1 – the first MR.com DVD video compilation. Again, interested artists e-mail now. – A brand new MR.com design. Yes, the site is being overhauled from the ground up and will be better than ever before…and dragged into 2010/11 standards! Help support MR.com right now: – Join MR-X. The members only section is also being overhauled and will continue delivering exclusive downloads and new previews of things to come. Support of this section has been vital for the site to date. – Donate via Paypal. If you are in the position to of course and if you feel MR is worthy of such. At this point in time, any donations will be extremely appreciated.   Thanks for reading this little update. Hopefully there will be only positive news to follow this and I will keep folks updated with behind the scenes developments and possible release dates for upcoming compilations. Back to business as normal from tomorrow. Thanks as always…. Andrew.

 

 

Friday, April 23, 2010

ESCAPE MUSIC ANNOUNCE 8 POINT ROSE RELEASE: Escape Music announce their latest scheduled release - the debut album Primigenia from Swedish rockers 8-Point Rose, due out June 25. Track Listing: 1. Resolve 2. Out Of The Shadows (Guitar solo by Peter Grehn - Morgana Lefay) 3. When Chaos Rules Our Lives 4. Endless Rage (Guitar solos by Tomas Olsson - Bloodbound & Johan Reinholdz - Andromeda) 5. Relentless 6. The Shadow 7. Winter Storm 8. I Want The World To See (Guitar solo by Jonas Jarlsby - Avatar) 9. Primigenia 10. Name Of Time (Growl by Simon Berglund - Zonaria). Band members: Marcus Nygren - Vocals, Alexander Timander - Guitars & Screams, Adam Johansson - Guitars & Growls, Marcus Sjösund - Bass, Johannes Timander - Drums. Produced by Ronnie Björnström - Hate Ammo (all the acoustic guitars) Download a full length track from the album: Out Of The Shadows. 8-Point Rose from Sweden was formed in autumn 2009 by a few members of the former band Evermoore that had been producing demo-records and playing live in different cities in Scandinavia, Czech Republic and Germany for seven years. The members of the band have an average age of 20 and all of them live up in the north of Sweden except for the singer Marcus Nygren that lives 2000 kilometers south of the bands "hometown" Kiruna. Marcus was found on the internet by the other members and after discovering that the musical similarities were so many and the personal chemistry was so good between all five of them that it would be perfect to start a hard-working band together despite the distance, they formed 8-Point Rose. Their music can be described as melodic, heavy and catchy metal with strong melodies, and they are inspired by a lot of other Scandinavian bands like In Flames, Nocturnal Rites, Tad Morose, The Rasmus, Evergrey, The Haunted, Soil work and Morgana Lefay. The music has both a really heavy and almost "extreme metal" base fronted by the furious screams of guitarist Alexander Timander and a softer surface with strong melodies and beautiful vocal arrangements fronted by talented singer Marcus Nygren. The first months, under the name of 8-Point Rose, they released a tribute-song to the pop-icon Michael Jackson that recently had passed away. The song was released for free download at the bands website and got a lot of attention at different memorial-pages for Michael. The success of the song also gave them the opportunity to play at two metal-festivals in the north of Sweden with bands like Lamb of God, Behemoth and Hypocrisy during the first months of the bands career! The debut-album "Primigenia" is recorded in three different cities in Sweden: Umeå, Kiruna and Malmö. It is produced and mixed by Ronnie Björnström at Enhanced Audio Productions and features guest-artists from some great Swedish bands which have influenced 8-Point Rose alot: Bloodbound, Avatar, Andromeda, Zonaria and Morgana Lefay. The lyrics of the album is about everything from deep emotions to the game World of Warcraft and the importance of parties and having a ball of course isnt missed either. Some of the tracks were actually originally written already in the mind of a 15-year old Johannes Timander during the years in the former band Evermoore. Most of the tracks from the album is featured in American bodybuilding-star David Henry's DVD "Beyond Motivated". Weblink: www.Escape-Music.com.   ROX DIAMOND FIREFEST DVD - OUT NOW: The 1992 Rox Diamond debut release is quite rightly regarded as a classic in the AOR/Pomp field, and it was with great delight that we managed to get the original line-up together 16 years later for their appearance at Firefest 5. The band put on a great show, as was witnessed by Fireworks Magazine write Ian Johnson... "As Rox Diamond began to find their feet, the nerves vanished and they started to enjoy themselves, blasting out tracks like 'One Way Street', where lead singer Paul Daniels sounded uncannily like a young Steve Walsh, the superb 'Familiar Stranger' and the killer 'Forever Yours', all of which are top drawer melodic rock songs. Though I think my favourite song on the day by Rox Diamond had to be the ballad 'Never Too Late', where each band member put in an emotion filled performance with a great vocal from Paul once again. 'Your Not The Only One' is next and is probably the band's signature song and really gets the crowd going (and myself air guitaring like a lunatic), 'Rock Bottom' follows and the band are starting to work the audience, getting them to clap and sing-a-long. Ending with the wonderful 'Heart Of Mine' is genius and get's the crowd jumping up and down and singing at the top of their voices once more, all of us having a great time. To sum up the set, I would have to say that even with all technical problems Rox Diamond had with their sound, the band still put in 110% effort and enthusiasm during their short time on stage and did themselves and Firefest proud - please come back soon." Yeah, the live sound mix on the day was certainly far from the best, but the mix for the audio DVD has really brought this incredible show to life, sparkling with a verve and passion, hitting all the high points with a professionalism you would expect from a band of such consummate musicians. As lead singer Paul Daniels told us at the time, "The guys and I are really honoured to be part of Firefest V. After all these years it's absolutely a thrill to play our music for people who are really dedicated to good melodic hard rock. The icing on the cake is to finally come to Europe and play our songs for people who truly appreciate what we do. Thanks to everyone at Firefest!" And now everyone can enjoy and appreciate Rox Diamond's wonderful Firefest set the way it was meant to be heard - turn up the volume and prepare to be entertained to the max! Rox Diamond - In The Rough, Live At Firefest: 1. Powerdrive 2. Nothin' I Won't Do 3. One Way Street 4. Joann 5. Forever Yours 6. Never Too Late 7. You're Not the Only One 8. Rock Bottom 9. You'll Get What's Comin' 10. Familiar Stranger 11. Heart of Mine. Check out the promo clip on YouTube here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBle0rcx_vk. DVD is in stock - Region Free (PAL format only!!). Limited to only 800 copies, this is another release destined to become a rare collectors item (White Sister already sold out, as are the PAL versions of Valentine and Mitch Malloy). Get yours now - and also help to support Firefest! Available at: www.rocktopia.co.uk and www.thefirefest.com or send a cheque/PO (UK only) for £12.99 plus £2 P&P (£14.99 total) payable to 'Bruce Mee', to the following address: Fireworks Magazine, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5XD.   FIREFEST FRIDAY: Press Release / After weeks of discussion, suggestions and debate, we decided to host a small scale show on the Friday, allowing those fans arriving on the day before the weekend festivities something to do with their time other than sit in the pub. But of course, this being Firefest we don't do things by half, and the final three-band line-up is sure to get fans of melodic rock foaming at the mouth... Reckless Love - Those fun loving Finnish rockers featuring former Crash Diet vocalist Olli Herman who have just released their debut album on Universal and released the magnificent 80's style video for single 'Beautiful Bomb' - check it out here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qy6NpF2V2xg. The band have just been added to the Download bill, so expect these boys to be hitting a crazy fast upward trajectory in the very near future. Crazy Lixx - The Swedes have just released their second album, 'New Religion', a CD that our very own Mr Dargan proclaimed as possibly the best release of the year so far. A total amalgam of the classic 80's sounds of bands like Motley Crue and Def Leppard, this are one band sure to get you onto your feet and joining the party. One of the bands most requested to be seen live in the UK, so now's your chance. H.E.A.T. - For an unprecedented third time running, Swedish band-of-the-moment H.E.A.T will be appearing at Firefest. The band's second album will be hitting the stores next month, and the boys will be playing a lot of songs from this at their headline appearance. So there it is, a phenomenal melodic rock line-up for the Firefest Friday at The Rig, Rock City...which is limited to 400 tickets!! 350 of which have already gone! So if you want to be part of the party, then get your tickets (price £21) from www.thefirefest.com or www.rocktopia.co.uk NOW! UPDATES: Hi folks. Once again I must apologise for no MR-X update. It just wasn't managable in time before I head out for MRF2. Upon my return, I will have a great archive of all new exclusive material. So to current members, grab all the downloads that are currently online so I can bring on the new stuff shortly. To everyone coming along to MelodicRockFest 2, I look forward to seeing you all over the weekend coming up. Everything is in place for the show and I'll update the MelodicRockFest.com site with fresh details of the show running times and ticket availability. Updates are going to get sporadic from this point onwards for a bit, as I fly out to the USA 6am Sunday morning local time. Should anyone need anything, I will have e-mail on me at all times, or call my cell number +61 403 922016. I will give daily updates of my whereabouts and activities (and show updates) via MelodicRock Twitter and Facebook pages.

 

 

Thursday, April 22, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE VANDEN PLAS NEW CONCEPT ALBUM: A good four years after Vanden Plas last critically acclaimed studio recording, Christ O hit the charts, Germany's finest Prog Metal act is set to release its brand new album: The Seraphic Clockwork, on June 4, in Europe and June 22 in the USA. Highly anticipated by fans and critics alike, "The Seraphic Clockwork" is a fascinating concept album, which not only shows the quintet's exceptional technical skills, but also highlights their impressive development as songwriters. The new album sounds more multi-layered, progressive and metal-oriented than any previous Vanden Plas release. "I think that my penchant for music of the tougher persuasion shines through more than ever before on this album," comments guitarist Stephan Lill, who – together with keyboardist Günter Werno and vocalist Andy Kuntz – make up the group's creative triumvirate. He adds: "Hard riffs, elaborate keyboard and orchestral arrangements plus catchy hooklines come together in a perfect symbiosis which marks Vanden Plas' own style. I feel that we were much more adventurous on with The Seraphic Clockwork than ever before." A perfect example which substantiates this statement, is the 13-minute track 'On My Way To Jerusalem', a little masterpiece within a homogeneous, self-contained album. The song takes the listener on a haunting, adventurous journey which comes full circle musically towards its end. From soaring piano sounds through hard riffs and versatile arrangements to atmospheric parts, the whole range of expressive forms which the Progressive Metal genre has to offer are present. On the other hand, 'Heal The World' with its melodic intro, subsequent heavy riff and catchy chorus, reveals the band's affinity to theatre music and all its complexity, and is classic Vanden Plas. The band's fascination with classical history has left its mark on "The Seraphic Clockwork" particularly in terms of lyrics: the dramatic science fiction story of the concept album was penned by vocalist Andy Kuntz and chronicles a journey in place and time from 16th century Rome to Jerusalem in the year 33 A.D. The protagonist, after an apocalyptic vision, has come under the spell of an Old Testament prophecy and must travel back through the centuries to face his God-given destiny. "It's about being unable to escape fate", explains Kuntz, a master at making complex subject matter both fascinating and accessible to contemporary audiences. "Working for the theatre has definitely influenced the story's depth. When you realize or reproduce your own projects on a stage, you learn a lot about dramaturgy." "The Seraphic Clockwork" was exclusively presented to the journalists in a press showcase held in Koln, Germany on April 9. Some of the reactions to the preview include: "Great comeback of Germany's leading Prog Metal band!" Mike Borrink - Rock Hard Germany "Those who have been concerned that Vanden Plas might have lost their riff power over the last few years don't have to worry anymore: their new album „The Seraphic Clockwork" is a perfect example for a well-balanced mixture of intelligent prog tunes, heavy riffing and the uncompromising love for hard music." Thorsten Zahn - Classic Rock Mag Germany "They've made us wait but one of the best and most respected Progressive Metal bands are back with the heaviest, most epic and diverse album of their career to date. Awesome stuff." Matthew Adrian Spall - Powerplay , UK "The Seraphic Clockwork" is unbelievable, fantastic, great music with a great story. Vanden Plas are the Prog Metal kings." Marco Magin – Breakout, Germany "Intense, melodic and challenging at the same time, this new offering by Vanden Plas has what it takes to please the most demanding Progressive Metal fans." Morgan Rivalin - Rock Hard France The musical and lyrical complexity of "The Seraphic Clockwork" is certainly inspiring. Vanden Plas have proved again that they are the most imaginative and diverse of German Prog Metal bands and justly enjoy the highest international acclaim. It can only be a matter of time before this concept album also makes it onto the stage. "The Seraphic Clockwork" includes the following tracks: Frequency; Holes In The Sky; Scar of an Angel; Sound of Blood; The Final Murder; Quicksilver; Rush of Silence; On My Way to Jerusalem. Vanden Plas: Andy Kuntz (vocals), Stephan Lill (guitar), Günter Werno (keyboards), Torsten Reichert (bass), Andreas Lill (drums). WebLinks: www.vandenplas.de / www.myspace.com/vplas / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx EDEN'S CURSE TO BE JOINED ON STAGE BY MARCUS THURSTON: Eden's Curse are delighted to announce that ex-Siam, Tigertailz and Paul Dianno's Killers guitarist Marcus Thurston will be joining them onstage as their live guitarist for their performance at MelodicRockFest 2 in Elgin, Illinois on Saturday 1st May. The performance will be recorded for Eden's Curse first official Live DVD. Thurston, a former band mate of Eden's Curse drummer Pete Newdeck in Killers, replaces Jay Parmar who left the touring line up in December after the bands UK Tour with Alestorm. You can check out samples of Thurston's playing on the Siam "Prayer" album at: www.myspace.com/officialsiam. In other news, the recordings are progressing on the new studio record "Trinity". Drums and Bass are done and Guitar recordings will commence after the MRF2 show, whilst Michael Eden will be recording vocals in the USA starting Wednesday 5th May with a yet-to-be named Producer alongside bassist/songwriter Paul Logue overseeing Production. More news to follow on "Trinity" including the capture of the "biggest guest" yet to work with The Curse. Watch this space!   ROCK SUGAR TO APPEAR ON FOOD NETWORK'S PRIVATE CHEFS OF BEVERLY HILLS TOMORROW: Internet sensation and the world's first pop/metal mash up band, Rock Sugar, hosts their album release party on national television at the spaceship home of their lead singer, Jess Harnell -- tomorrow, Friday, April 23, on the Food Network's "Private Chefs Of Beverly Hills" Check local listings for specific times. Combining the best loved heavy metal riffs of the 80s with the sweet melodies of the world's favorite 80's pop classics, Rock Sugar has 're-imaginated' the greatest pop songs of yesterday with heavy metal musicianship and superb showmanship with their new CD Reimaginator. The group has already generated more than 700,000 hits on YouTube, 1,000 new Facebook fans a week, and classic rock stations all over the country are playing cuts from their debut CD Reimaginator solely generated by fan word-of-mouth. Some radio stations are even having listening parties where they play the entire album front to back. The band will also be performing at the Download Festival in England this June with Aerosmith, AC/DC and 120, 000 screaming rock fans. For more information visit www.rocksugarband.com. Register at our website and we'll invite you to our first LA show at the House Of Blues on May 24! ZAK STEVENS APPEARING ON REBORN IN FIRE, THE FORTHCOMING EMPIRES OF EDEN CD: Empires of Eden is very proud to announce Zak Stevens as one of the feature artists on the upcoming album Reborn in Fire. After rising to legendary status as lead singer for Savatage and Circle II Circle as well as Machines of Grace, Zak is featured on a full-length song on the album. Zak's vocals were recorded in Tampa, Florida by Mark Prator, who engineered the Savatage albums Edge Of Thorns and Handful of Rain. The album was mixed and mastered at Frontiers Studio in Sydney, Australia. From Zak: "It's an understatement to say that I had an amazing time working on the new Empires of Eden CD. Stu Marshall is a super-talented recording musician who really knows how to get the best performances out of the artists he works with. Stu asked me to write my own lyrics and vocal melodies to the song I appeared on ('Prognatus Ut Obscurum'). That's exactly how I like to do things, and that really allowed me to bring out more of myself on the composition. As a result I was able to give an all-round stronger performance, there's no doubt about it. Working with Stu was a fantastic experience for me. His vision for the overall spectrum of the album was stunning. I learned a lot... and that's what it's all about in the world of music and artist collaboration." The new album from Empires of Eden, Reborn in Fire will feature some of the world's most respected heavy metal voices, including the already announced, Mike Vescera. Reborn in Fire is set for release in June 2010 through 7Hard Records. Further announcements on the guests will continue in the coming weeks. Check www.empiresofeden.com and www.7hart.de for all news and pre-release information. GUITAR GURU & SINGER/SONGWRITER RICHIE KOTZEN ON WORLD TOUR: Richie Kotzen will hit the road on his world tour starting in South America April 22 in Goiania, Brazil, but is working his way back to his long-awaited return to the USA. This will be his first string of tour dates in the USA in over a decade and a concert not to miss. He will be performing from his 17 plus solo albums with various charting hits he wrote or performed with Poison and Mr. Big. Kotzen's latest critically acclaimed release Peace Sign on Headroom Inc is sweeping the Nation. Kotzen has an amazing ability to create projects that awe critics and inspire aspiring musicians having done it again with his new release. "I'm really excited about this new CD," explains Kotzen. "I'm not sure how I did it, but somehow I think it has a really live sound, even though I'm playing all the instruments on all but four songs. I think it is because of the music I grew up on. Bands like Cream, The Stones, and of course Hendrix all had that 'live -- create it on the spot' sound so I suppose that is the way I hear music." Kotzen has been touted as "one of the best guitar players in the world" with a voice on par with some of the greatest rock/soul singers. He has also enjoyed a truly incredible journey in the world of music. Among numerous accomplishments, in 2006 as a solo artist, Kotzen was the opening act for the legendary Rolling Stones' A Bigger Bang Tour in Japan. And in addition to writing and being featured on #1 charting albums and tracks, Kotzen has amassed an impressive 25 plus album discography. Come see the hot ticket of the year and one of the greatest guitar players to hit the pages of Guitar Player Magazine, Guitar World and more! USA tour dates below~ VIP Packages are available on this tour. VIP Packages include: - One (1) VIP ticket with early entry to the venue. Attend sound check with Richie Kotzen! - A meet and greet with Richie Kotzen! - An autographed, limited edition Richie Kotzen 2010 Peace SIgn World Tour commemorative Poster (In addition to your personal item, Richie will also personalize the poster for you at the meet and greet if you'd like) - A Richie Kotzen VIP commemorative laminate. - A Richie Kotzen 2010 Peace Sign World Tour T-Shirt. - A copy of Richie's new CD PEACE SIGN USA Tour Dates & Clinincs May 10 *Sam Ash Guitar Clinic Orlando, FL May 11 Skipper's Smokehouse Tampa FL May 12 Club 57 West Orlando FL May 13 Freebird Live Jacksonville, FL May 14 The Local Marietta, GA May 15 *Sam Ash Guitar Clinic Nashville, TN May 16 Mercy Lounge Nashville, TN May 18 Jaxx Night Club West Springfield, VA May 19 The North Star Bar Philadelphia, PA May 20 *Sam Ash Guitar Clinic Philadelphia, PA May 21 The Works Reading, PA May 22 Diesel Club Lounge Pittsburgh, PA May 24 *Sam Ash Guitar Clinic NYC, NY May 25 Highline Ballroom New York, NY May 26 Toad's Place New Haven, CT May 27 Showcase Live Foxboro, MA For more information visit www.richiekotzen.com. INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Pretty Maids guitarist Ken Hammer checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about their brand new studio album Pandemonium; why they used spoken word quotes from American President Barack Obama; the making of the new video for the first single Little Drops of Heaven; specific song compositions like Cielo Drive; upcoming tour plans; and a whole lot more. To hear the interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/ken-hammer-of-pretty-maids. Danny Rexon, lead singer for Swedish hard rockers Crazy Lixx, will be the special guest on the April 23-29 edition of Hard Rock Nights. Crazy Lixx has just released their new album, New Religion, April 6 on Frontiers Records. The album features new guitarist Andy Dawson, who joined the group after Vic Zino left to join Hardcore Superstar. Hard Rock Nights is a weekly syndicated radio program broadcast on a number of rock and metal stations. Visit: hardrocknights.wordpress.com/affiliates for a full list of stations and times. Interview with Billy Rowe of JetBoy: www.rockmusicstar.com/jetboy. Concert review and interview with Helix: www.rockmusicstar.com/helix. YOSO - ATTENTION, CLASSIC ROCKERS: Not much new information to report on Yoso the group featuring singer Bobby Kimball (ex-Toto vocalist), keyboardist Tony Kaye (Yes), and former Yes member/producer/bassist Billy Sherwood, and guitarist Jimmy Haun. Drummer is Jimmy Cortez. The band is now signed to a new management company, 2 Plus Music & Entertainment led by Leonardo Pavkovic and Derek Shulman. The group has recorded its debut, Yoso CD. To hear live music, please visit: www.youtube.com/yosohq. No word yet on a label or release date. WebLink: www.yosohq.com.   xx REVIEWS UPDATED: A nice set of new Reviews online today, featuring new releases by: Ratt, Scorpions, Crashdiet, Asia, FM, Extreme, Tesla, Newman, Mass, Chris Laney, State Of Rock, Serpentine, Firecracker and Silent Call. Read them now. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: CD Showcase has been updated with the following new previews: Y&T (Frontiers Records, May 21 release); 2 Virginia Wolf re-issues (Rock Candy, out now) and 3 new albums from Avenue Of Allies Music - Sedona, Sven Larsson and the all-star Shining Line. Check them out now. MR-X UPDATED: The MR-X update for last week is online today. Featuring two new albums to check out: Angry Anderson - Blood From Stone (1990 solo release, featuring Mike Slamer on guitars, production and co-writes) Kim Kyung Ho - Live (South Korean hard rock vocalist featuring some interesting cover tunes alongside his originals) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

EONIAN RECORDS PRESENTS CHARLOTTE & LEGACY: Eonian Records, the world's premier hard rock and metal archive label is pleased to announce the first two titles of 2010: Charlotte Medusa Groove and Legacy Self-Titled. Charlotte Medusa Groove / During the over-the-top excesses of the late 80's, every new rock band grabbing for the brass ring went the hair-metal route, but Charlotte refused to be blind little lambs led to the corporate rock slaughter, instead creating a fresh, invigorating, blues-drenched melodic metal sound that conjured up a restless, roaming, slithering rock 'n' roll voodoo. In other words, they said the devil be damned and marched to their own thunderous drums. And when they damned the devil, God or Fate or Lady Luck or whatever you want to call it took them on one hell of a hard rocking ride. Their mission: Play the kind of metal music that unleashes the primal beast in all of us and nails everyone to the wall with its moody aggression. They unveiled their unique style at Jezebel's in Orange County, California and quickly garnered barrels of buzz for their Great White, Led Zeppelin, and Guns N' Roses-influenced sound. Their popularity rose rapidly, taking them through renowned venues like The Whisky-A-Go-Go, The Roxy, and The Troubadour. But they never lost sight of their vision, refusing to follow the popular trends, always staying true to themselves while delivering vibrant, creative, unpredictable hard rock music. Track Listing (with samples): 1. Medusa Groove 2. Woman Behind The Eyes 3. Siren 4. Little Devils 5. Miss Necrophilia 6. She Get It Up 7. Got Love On The Line 8. Changes 9. Roadhouse Of Love 10. Ocean Of Love And Mercy 11. Invisible Man 12. All Tied Up. For fans of Great White, Led Zeppelin, and Guns N' Roses.   xx Legacy was a pack of righteously rogue mousse-abuse mavericks who merged the messianic message with loud, raucous, rowdy rock 'n' roll. Created in 1987, the band felt a burning deep in their souls to unleash an all-cylinders-cranking metal machine that could not only rock your face off, but share a message of sacred love while doing so. The sizzling salvo of heavy guitars, thunderous rhythms, melodic hooks, and layered vocals went hand in hand with who they were as servants of faith. Citing Columbus, Ohio as their home base and bands like Stryper, Dokken, and Scorpions as their influences, the band invaded all manner of musical venues in their quest to bring their message-oriented metal to the masses. In the winter of 1989, Legacy became the first Christian band to ever take the coveted crown in the Battle of the Bands at the renowned Alrosa Villa heavy metal club in front of nearly 10,000 concert goers. Fueled by this success and gaining momentum rapidly, they opened for several Christian rock legends, including REZ, Shout, Sacred Warrior, and Allies. Despite any obstacles thrown in their way, the band never lost faith in their mission to rock for the Rock and answer the call to dance with metal destiny. Track Listing (with samples): 1. Salvation is Law 2. It's Real 3. Cross the Line 4. Forever In Your Arms 5. Don't Run Away 6. Red, White, and Blue 7. Change of a Broken Heart 8. Comin' Along 9. Soldiers Unite 10. One Way or the Other 11. Live It 12. What a World 13. Model Citizen 14. Vision of Perfection. For fans of Dokken, Scorpions and Stryper. Both Charlotte and Legacy are now available at most any store that carries AOR, Hard Rock, and Metal worldwide, as well as at www.EonianRecords.com. Eonian Records is now proudly distributed in Europe through Fastball Records & Intergroove. For inquiries, please contact a.bob@bob-media.com.   xx ROCKWEEKEND FESTIVAL ANOTHER REASON TO VISIT SWEDEN: Press Release / "We are thrilled to announce that Sebastian Bach is confirmed for the Rockweekend Festival July 8-10th 2010, located in Söderhamn two hours north of Stockholm/Arlanda airport in Sweden! This will be his only show in Sweden for 2010. Also confirmed today is: Treat, Angeline (Melodic Rock), Babylon Bombs, Steel Attack (Original lineup), Lady Die (Bloodbound/Morgana Lefay members)." The lineup is shaping up as follows: Twisted Sister, Deep Purple, Venom, Saxon, Sebastian Bach, Kamelot, Danger Danger, Tarja Ex. Nightwish, Annihilator, My Dying Bride, Sepultura, Obituary, Over The Rainbow, Treat, Electric Boys, Unleashed, Paul Dianno Ex. Iron Maiden, Bloodbound, Babylon Bombs, Steel Attack, Lady Die, Angeline, Fatal Smile, Carnal Forge, Crazy Lixx, Bonafide, Abramis Brama, The Murder Of My Sweet, Astral Doors, Lions Share, M.A.N, Mimikry, Fourever, Surviving The Charade, Mama Kin, Dawn Of Silence, Hellsingland Underground, Gasoline Queen, No Approval, Zz Rock, The Cougars, Lucy Seven, Status Quiz, Rock N Roll Allstars, Backdraft, Bai Bang, Cedron, Coldspell, Degreed, Eternal, M.Ill.Ion, Myrah, Netherbird, Scarpoint. More info at: www.rockweekend.se. A weekend ticket is only 595 SEK (60 Euro) and is available through our website! STOCKHOLM ROCK OUT POSTPONED: Press Release / "Due to the volcano and flight situation over Europe today we have together with our artists decided to postpone the two day Stockholm Rock Out to September 10th & 11th. We are truly sorry for this but this is out of our control. We cant wait til the day before the show and then find out that some of the bands and visitors cant make it here. Already confirmed for September 10th-11th are Great White, Keel and Pretty Boy Floyd and more will come soon (KIX will come to sweden in October, more info to follow). But a Volcano cant stop a Rock Out so on May 1st we will have a one day Rock Out with Tigertailz, XYZ, CrashDiet, Vains of Jenna, Nasty Idols, Chris Laney, Fatal Smile plus more that will be announced soon. (XYZ & Tigertailz ofcourse depends on the flight conditions) For all of you that has bought a ticket, whether its a one day or two day ticket, these are valid for the September show and you are also welcome to the show on May 1st for FREE if you bring your ticket, So three nights instead of two, if you come for the September dates you will also get a Special Limited T-shirt for free at the entrance on September 10th but of course if you cant make it in September you will get a re-fund until April 30th, just contact Tickster support and they will assist you www.tickster.com. We will also release a new ticket for the show on May 1st, these will on presale cost 260 SEK + service fee and at the door 350 SEK and for May 1st the age limit is changed to 13+. So once again, our apologies for this situation but please support us and come and Rock Out with us on May 1st and September 10th and 11th." WebLink: www.sthlmrockout.com XYZ AND TERRY ILOUS ON TOUR: XYZ and Terry Ilous up coming show dates: XYZ Apr 29 20108:00P Gamla Tryckeriet Stockholm May 1 20106:00P Sweden Stocholm May 4 20108:00P Le Ferailleurnantes, Pays de la Loire May 5 20108:00P L'EmpreinteParis May 7 20108:00P Rock -CityUster Switzerland May 8 20108:00P KikapooTuoro sul Trasimeno Italy, Perugia Terry Ilous and Steve Saluto May 13 20108:00P Arzignano, Vicenza May 14 20108:00P Cocciopestobiagio Di Callalta, Treviso May 15 20104:00P The Italian Music ShowBologna, Bologna May 16 20104:00P The Italian Music ShowBologna, Bologna May 17 20104:00P The Italian Music ShowBologna Jul 3 20108:00P The Shed Harley Davidson showMaryville TN, Tennessee XYZ Jul 24 20105:00P Midwest Rockfest Arkansas City, Kansas Jul 30 20108:00P Lugliobattipaglia, Salerno Terry Ilous of XYZ Oct 1 20108:00P Z Rock 2010 Dudley, London and South East WebLinks: www.officialxyz.com / www.myspace.com/terryilousxyz.

 

 

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

LATEST FROM LION MUSIC: Lion Music have announced their next two releases, set for May 21 release: Section A return after an absence of 4 years with their third album Sacrifice. Led by the rich vocals of Andy Engberg and the virtuoso guitar work of Torben Enevoldsen (Acacia Avenue, Fatal Force) the band is completed by new drummer Thomas Heintzelmann (Decoy) for the pounding 10 tracks of the new album. "Sacrifice" marks a heavier and more direct approach from Section A with a more streamlined song orientated approach than its two predecessors "The Seventh Sign" (2003) and "Parallel Lives" (2006). The progressive elements of its predecessors are used more sparingly this time round and lyrically there is no concept to follow yet the album does tread the a similar ground in lyric subject matter. On the music's direction Torben Enevoldsen comments, "Musically, this album is a bit heavier and straighter forward than our previous efforts. The songs are perhaps also a bit faster and more energetic. It's however basically still a blend of very melodic hard rock and metal, with a slight touch of Prog. The initial writing actually began right after the release of "Parallel Lives", back in 2006. The writing and recording sessions then went on and off during 2007 and 2008, until the album was finally completed in September of 2009. I did most of the recordings here in my own studio in Copenhagen, but Andy's vocals were recorded at Stonetower Studios in Stockholm". On the bands new drummer Torben proudly states, "I think that our new drummer, Thomas Heintzelmann, has opened new doors to the band technically. His double bass drumming is very fast and tight, and that enabled us to utilize this in our new songs. As a result, a song like "Land Of The Desert Sun" became just the way I wanted it. Very tight, fast and heavy". Continuing the bands tradition of having a first rate keyboardist come in an play solos "Sacrifice" is no exception with Lasse Finbråten of Circus Maximus adding his distinctive style and creating a nice collection of solo trade offs with Enevoldsen. "Sacrifice" sees Section A back in full metal mode for their new album and is sure to appeal to long-term fans of the band as well as win over a new audience. Track Listing: 01. Sacrifice 02. Room With A View 03. Lionheart 04. Land Of The Desert Sun 05. Concealed In Lies 06. Intoxicated 07. Heroes 08. Days Of Sorrow 09. Danger 10. The City Is Falling. WebLinks: www.torbenenevoldsen.com / www.myspace.com/sectionatheband.   xx Pangea are a melodic hard rock band that should be a household name, as it stands the band are highly respected on the underground scene thanks to two albums released in the mid 1990's. Retrospectacular marks the release of the bands long thought lost third album with quite a story behind it. Pangea, have existed as a band in its trio formation of Torben Lysolm (Vocal and Guitar), Jan Engstrøm (Bass) and Tony Olsen (Drums and Percussion) since 1991. In 1992 the band entered a production deal with a producer and studio owner and their debut album "The First" was released in Japan and Southeast Asia in '95. Once the and was ready to release their second album "Manchild" in the spring of '97 a couple of European labels found interest and both albums were released in Europe late in '97. Having high hopes for their third album the band took a big risk and made an expensive album only to discover that the economic market in Japan collapsed resulting in no label willing to pay anywhere near the asking license price. This however turned into a crisis for the band on a larger scale with the studio where the album was being recorded suddenly closed down. Only drums, percussion and vocals were saved from revivable backups, the rest was gone. The band went through several phases of "what do we do now?" which ultimately resulted in Torben Lysolm leaving the band in 2004 going on to produce and mix for acts such as Acacia Avenue, Section A etc. Jan and Tony auditioned several musicians to replace Torben but no replacement was found and the band finally called it quits in 2008. However, the trio regrouped a little while later and decided to finally finish their third album and see where it takes them. Torben Lysolm comments, "We decided to redo the whole thing and oddly it was not too difficult. We had worked so much on the previous production of it that it was all still in our backbones even all these years later. We've changed stuff here and there which appeared to need it after reviewing the album ourselves for several years. Lyrically I teamed up with Martie Kolbl. I heard some stuff she had written and I really liked her style of writing. Odd twists and stuff I'd never come up with myself. She wrote the lyrics for 5 songs and I am happy that she's finally going to see the fruit of her labour after all this time". "Retrospectacular" is classic Pangea, led by the punchy and expressive guitar work and vocals of Lysolm, the band peddle a similar vein of rock to early Extreme with the guitar skill to match their late 80's/early 90's contemporaries. The album will also please fans of the bands first two releases as the classic Pangea sound is continued here in fine style. It may have taken over a decade to be finished but "Retrospectacular" finally sees release on May 21st 2010 on Lion Music. Track Listing 01. Time's Up. 02. Hold Your Fire. 03. Right Between The Eyes. 04. Blindfold. 05. Little By Little. 06. Shot. 07. Don't Let Go. 08. House Of Love. 09. TNT. 10. 2 AM. 11. It's Too Late.   xx TEN CLASSIC BON JOVI ALBUMS PRESENTED AS SPECIAL EDITIONS FEATURING RARE RECORDINGS AS BONUS TRACKS: On May 11, Bon Jovi will re-release their classic studio albums as Special Editions. Each of the band's first 10 albums-- Bon Jovi, 7800° Fahrenheit, Slippery When Wet, New Jersey, Keep The Faith, These Days, Crush, Bounce, Have A Nice Day and Lost Highway– will feature the original studio album tracks plus era-specific live recordings included as bonus tracks. The bonus live tracks include songs taken from sound checks and concerts held in venues from all over the world, ranging from 500 seat theatres to massive football stadiums. Many of the live versions are extended, including "Get Ready" (Bon Jovi), "In and Out Of Love" (7800° Fahrenheit), "Blood on Blood" (New Jersey), "Keep The Faith" (Keep The Faith), and a duet featuring Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland performing "Who Says You Can't Go Home" (Have A Nice Day) with the band. This "Special Edition" collection will feature new packaging. Each CD will feature new artwork, including images from each period, and new liner notes documenting the band's success through each stage of their twenty-five year career. Exclusive soft-pack versions will also contain reproductions of laminated tour credentials. Additionally, each "Special Edition" will provide fans with the ability to gain "backstage access" to The Bon Jovi Vaults — a website being created to offer exclusive virtual content, including photos, tour memorabilia and additional live audio tracks. WebLinks: www.bonjovi.com. UPDATES FROM US LABEL DIVEBOMB RECORDS: Updates from US label Divebomb Records - Casanova - Casanova (Deluxe Edition) / Street Date: May 11 / Though CASANOVA may not have become a household name in the 90's hard rock scene it wasn't for a lack of great songs and drive to succeed. Their roots began in such classic and esteemed German hard rock/heavy metal bands such as Mad Max and Warlock. Formed in 1990 when Warlock super-producer, Henry Staroste, brought Michael Voss and Michael Eurich together to craft the debut album, Casanova, that took the hard rock world by storm. Well, the hard rock world outside of the USA that is. Touring Europe in support of the album, which eventually sold 170,000 copies, only helped to establish and strengthen their rapidly increasing fanbase. A devout fanbase that remains by their side, even now, 20 years later. Casanova has been out of print for years and was never actually released in the United States until now. With supplies diminishing over the years, the price of obtaining an original copy of Casanova has skyrocketed to prices over the $100 mark. So with it being the band's 20th anniversary we are extremely excited to present a new deluxe edition of the album which includes not only remastered audio, but seven (7) bonus tracks. This updated release of Casanova is the ultimate edition and more importantly a celebration of the classic hard rock sounds of Casanova! Oracle - Desolate Kings: The Oracle Anthology / Street Date: May 11 / Desolate Kings: The Oracle Anthology is the first ever comprehensive release of North Carolina cult heavy metal band, Oracle. Featuring a then youthful Shawn Pelata on vocals (current member of Line Of Fire) the band existed between the years 1990-1993 and released two demos and a critically acclaimed EP entitled, Selah. There have been previous issues of Selah released almost half heartedly, but Divebomb Records decided to finally put together an issue of Oracle material worthy of collector's expectations. Desolate Kings: The Oracle Anthology features 17 tracks from Oracle's entire history plus a brand new interview with Shawn Pelata as well as new introduction by long time fan and columnist, Olaf Becker (Turn Or Burn magazine). For the collectors we were able to unearth an alternate vocal version of their original demo cassette, plus the super rare 2 track demo featuring the band after Shawn's departure. So this is it, for the fans, a true anthology of a great North Carolina metal band, Oracle. Widow - Midnight Strikes...Twice! / Street Date: June 15 / We originally released this album in 2003 and at that time shocked many loyal Tribunal Records metalcore followers by serving up a dose of traditional metal similar to the likes of Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Mercyful Fate yet with a dash of modern Children Of Bodom flair. In 2010 traditional metal is making huge resurgence in the metal community, but Widow since Midnight Strikes' original release have continued carrying the torch having released two more albums (On Fire and Nightlife) via Cruz Del Sur Records. Having been out of print for years and with the success of our reissue division, Divebomb Records, we have decided to give Widow's debut album a proper release within an arena we think it will be given the respect it finally deserves. The new Midnight Strikes...Twice! (Deluxe Edition reissue features the remastered original album, No Stone Unturned demo plus new band interview and enhanced footage of full 6 song live set from the Midnight Strikes era. Coming Soon - We are currently putting our August releases together. Besides the Line Of Fire reissue (released in unison with new album Momentum coming on Tribunal Records) we have the second installment to the Casanova catalog, naturally treated to a "Deluxe Edition" with bonus tracks and much more. We have also partnered up with one of the biggest metal labels in the world to bring back a classic from the NYHC/crossover scene. It's one of our personal favorites and we hope to make it yours as well! Stay tuned for more details as we are able to unveil them. I personally wanted to thank all the Solitude fans who came out to the reunion show. I had a blast and judging from the crowd reaction, and the even more impressive fact that the show Sold Out, the other fans in attendance did too! They band may do another gig down the line, but if they don't this show was one for the ages as the rocked through 18 songs (most original some "inspirational" covers). We hope to continue gathering images and video and will pass along to everyone we can! For now I have uploaded what pictures I was able to take via my iPhone. Not the best, but it is all I have for now. WebLink: tribunalrecords.bigcartel.com/category/divebomb-records   xx ANOTHER SARAYA RE-ISSUE: Now available via French label Bad Reputation - Saraya's self-titled debut album - Collector reissue + 4 bonus tracks including Timeless Love (featuring Steve Lukather) and full booklet/remastered. Track Listing: Love Has Taken It's Toll, Healing Touch, Get U Ready, Gypsy Child, One Night Away, Alsace Lorraine, Runnin' Out Of Time, Back To The Bullet, Fire To Burn, St Christopher Medal, Drop The Bomb. Bonus Tracks - Chainsmokin', Seducer, In The Shade Of The Sun, Timeless Love. While we are on the subject of Saraya, a couple of recent press releases touting the live return of the band didn't mention the passing of the band's keyboardist Gregg Munier, who died in February 2006 at the age of 44 (complications suffered during a bout with Pneumonia). It is great to see the original band back together again, no doubt they will pay fitting tribute to Greg.   MORE UK DATES FOR A FOREIGNER'S JOURNEY: A Foreigners Journey have updated tour dates: Fri 23rd April - The Standard, Walthamstow, London Sat 24th April - The Riga, Southernd-on-Sea Fri 30th April - The Roadhouse, Birmingham Fri 7th May - Bike Rally, Tewksbury Sat 8th May - Sawyers Venue, Kettering Fri 14th May - The Boardwalk, Sheffield Fri 21st May - The Diamond, Sutton-in-Ashfield Sat 5th June - The Wharf, Tavistock, Devon Sun 6th June - Mr Kyps Sat 19th June - Rhodes Rock, Rhodes, Greece Sun 27th June - Robin 2, Wolverhampton Fri 2nd July - Civic Theatre, Doncaster Sat 3rd July - JB's, Dudley For more info on venues and stage times www.aforeignersjourney.com.

 

 

Monday, April 19, 2010

NEW LABEL, LOVE & WAR RECORDS, TO FOCUS ON BOTH UP-AND-COMING AND ESTABLISHED METAL TALENT: It's not very often that three long-time friends get a chance to launch a record label together, but that's exactly what Phil Sadler, Charlie Bagarozza, and Steve Blaze have done, with the creation of Love & War Records. And with such a strong link to metal veteran act Lillian Axe (Blaze is the lead guitarist/founding member of the band, while Sadler promoted the group's shows in the Midwest area), it shouldn't come as a surprise that the label's first-ever release will be the group's tenth album overall, Deep Red Shadows. The album - produced by Blaze and mastered by Ty Tabor of King's X - promises to be another kick ass entry into the group's catalog, and will be released on July 20, 2010. Love & War Records will accept solicited and unsolicited materials from artists. Submissions should contain at least a 3 song demo CD, optional DVD of the band performing live, current band photo, current band bio and any info on live shows you have played. All submissions will become the property of Love & War Records. The official titles for the three label founders will be Owner and CEO for Sadler, President/Head of A&R/Talent Relations for Bagarozza, and Producer/A&R for Blaze. "After having 6 label deals, including major and indie labels, it was time to become a part of a family that could learn from the errors and strengths of our past situations, says Blaze. We want to surround ourselves with a great team to guide our artists and great artists who care about the wonderful art of hard rock and metal music." For more information, visit: www.loveandwarrecordsllc.com.   xx From their humble beginnings in New Orleans, Lillian Axe rose above the cream of the bands of the hard rock genre of their era and had built a reputation that could not be denied and were becoming legendary throughout the United States. While performing an opening stint with Ratt, Poison and Queensryche, Lillian Axe caught the eye of record executive Irving Azoff who signed Lillian Axe to their first professional recording contract and the rest is history. Often regarded as an underrated metal gem, Lillian Axe are consummate professionals, balancing song structure and melody with a heavy edge. The most impressive aspect of this enduring group might just be their innate ability to remain relevant while never shunning their vibrant and vintage heritage. With big shot producers, major and independent records deals, videos for MTV, quarter of a million records sales in the United States alone, New Orleans survivors, Lillian Axe, have persevered through the years and still to this day, record new music and tour. 2010 will be the year of Lillian Axe. A fresh outlook, but the same approach and hard work will take Steve Blaze, Derrick LeFevre, Sam Poitevent, Eric Morris and Ken Koudelka to the next level. Lillian Axe will be releasing their tenth album, Deep Red Shadows, on July 20 on Love & War Records distributed by Sony Music Distribution (RED). On May 16, 2010, Lillian Axe will be the first hard rock band ever enshrined in the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. Lillian Axe will forever be remembered along side such greats as Fats Domino, Buddy Guy, Louis Armstrong, Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard and Allen Toussaint to name a few. Lillian Axe will be performing and headlining the First Annual Louisiana Music Homecoming Concert in celebration of their induction at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center. MELODIC BRIEFS: A new book just out called Mosh Potatoes - a cook book featuring recipes from bands like - Firehouse, Quiet Riot, Dream Theater, LA Guns, Guns & Roses, Dokken, Dio, WASP, Lita Ford, Zakk Wylde, Lemmy (Motorhead), Steel Panther, Andrew WK, Vixen, Anvil, Motley Crue, Pantera, Armored Saint, Anthrax, Megadeth, Metal Church, Type O Negative and many others. Check out the MySpace page: www.myspace.com/521429239. Marseille have announced the launch of the Official Unfinished Business album trailer as produced by Craig Oates who has done a magnificent job. The trailer is a 5 minute teaser for a longer production that Craig's company are currently putting together as they came on the road with the band in February for a few days. This is also the first airing of the album's title track on the Internet: www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOgjX0nBAP4. In two weeks, VFX will no longer be on iTunes. If you would like one last chance to buy VFX music go to: www.itunes.com/vfx/vfx. To listen to VFX music on the net go to: www.myspace.com/vfxband. The new album, Phlegethon, by Italian heavy prog band Kingcrow will be available Worldwide on May 17 through Scarlet Records (www.scarletrecords.it). A new song (Evasion) from the album can be downloaded here: www.scarletrecords.it/bands/Kingcrow/Kingcrow_-_Evasion.mp3. Other samples available at www.myspace.com/kingcrowband. You can also find more info about the album at www.kingcrow.it. Megadeth has unveiled their new video for "The Right To Go Insane". "On May 17, 1995, a U.S. Army veteran and unemployed plumber in San Diego, Shawn Timothy Nelson, snapped and stole an M60 Patton tank from a nearby National Guard Armory." writes Noisecreep. "He drove down the highway, crushing cars, fire hydrants and an RV before he was stopped and killed by police. The headline-grabbing story forms the basis of Megadeth's new video for 'The Right to Go Insane,' the second single from the band's acclaimed 2009 disc Endgame." The video, following the aforementioned storyline, finds frontman Dave Mustaine sneaking onto a military facility, stealing a tank and using it like a monster truck through the streets of California, while laughing maniacally: www.noisecreep.com/2010/04/09/megadeth-the-right-to-go-insane-video-premiere. Royal Hunt have uploaded a song Shadowman from their new album X on the bands official website www.royalhunt.com and MySpace www.myspace.com/royalhuntmusic. BLACK MAJESTY – 'IN YOUR HONOUR' SAMPLES ONLINE: Australian melodic power metallers Black Majesty have put up some samples of songs from their new album 'In Your Honour' on their MySpace page: www.myspace.com/blackmajesty. The European release date is set for May 14, out through Limb Music with other territories soon to follow. In Your Honour was produced by Roland Grapow (Masterplan, ex Helloween) and artwork was handled by Dirk Illing (Scorpions, Wizard). Upcoming Black Majesty live dates include: June 4th 2010 – Monstrothic, Rosies Live, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia June 5th 2010 – Hifi Bar, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia June 25th 2010 – Rock City, Uster, Switzerland June 26th 2010 – Die Halle, Frankfurt, Germany June 28th 2010 – Exit Music Hall Chmelnice, Prague, Czech Republic June 29th 2010 – Melodka, Brno, Czech Republic June 30th 2010 – Trancirna, Ostrava, Czech Republic July 3rd 2010 – Basinfirefest, Spalene Prorici, Czech Republic WebLink: www.blackmajesty.com / www.myspace.com/blackmajesty / www.limb-music.de. THE DIRTY BOYS OF THE UNDERGROUND" RETURN TO HOLLYWOOD AFTER NEARLY 20 YEARS: KIX original members Steve Whiteman (lead vocals), Ronnie Younkins (guitar), Brian Forsythe (guitar), Jimmy Chalfant (drums) along with and bassist Mark Schenker make a long overdue and hugely anticipated return to Hollywood on Friday, August 27, doors 7:30 p.m., at the House of Blues Sunset Strip after nearly 20 years. Tickets go on sale Saturday, April 17, at 10 a.m., at all Ticketmaster outlets and House of Blues box offices. House of Blues Sunset Strip is located at 8430 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. Call 800-745-3000 or visit Ticketmaster.com. Founded in 1978 in Hagerstown, Md., as The Shooze, the band changed its name to The Generators before settling on KIX. KIX signed with Atlantic Records in 1981, and released seven albums between 1981 and 1995, including the hugely popular "Midnight Dynamite" showcasing such favorites as "Cold Shower", "Sex" and the title track "Midnight Dynamite". KIX hit platinum success in 1988 with "Blow My Fuse," featuring such hits as "Cold Blood" and the smash power ballad "Don't Close Your Eyes". With the downfall of 80's rock in the early 90's KIX broke up in 1995. KIX resurfaced in 2004, and began playing a few local sold out shows, but only in the Baltimore area. Then, in the summer of 2008, KIX performed outside its home area for the first time in 13 years at two of the biggest rock festivals in the US: Rocklahoma in Pryor, Okla., and Rock the Bayou in Houston, Texas. KIX garnered "Best Performance" at both festivals, a dubious distinction considering KIX shared the stage with Sammy Hagar, Alice Cooper, Tesla, Queensryche, Ratt, Lita Ford, Warrant and more. From 2009 to now, audiences are thrilled to see KIX performing more successful festival and sold out shows outside Baltimore. KIX's return to Hollywood after 20 years is predicted to be "Hollywood's 80's rock event of 2010" and sure to be a total sell out. KIX's freakish popularity and cult status far outweighs that of other acts from the 80's rock genre that sold more records and had more hits. KIX has certainly stood the test of time. SHADOW GALLERY TO HEADLINE PROGPOWER EUROPE: Shadow Gallery announced today that they will be the headliner on Saturday, October 2nd at ProgPower Europe 2010. After the successful release of Digital Ghosts in November 2009 via InsideOut Records, the band is set to bring their epic progressive rock music to the stage. Shadow Gallery, known purely as a studio band until this point, has released 6 albums while the members juggled other music-related jobs and careers with their recordings. After the lost of their original singer Mike Baker in October 2008 due to a sudden heart attack, the band vowed to honor their fallen band mate and the fans who loved him by moving forward. They found singer Brian Ashland who stepped in to add his own graceful style to "Digital Ghosts". In their upcoming performance at ProgPower Europe, the band will play selections from "Digital Ghosts", as well as music from all of their previous releases. Guitarist Gary Wehrkamp states, "I have known Rene Janssen from ProgPower Europe a long time and am thrilled that we are going to play our debut European date at his event. The band is enthusiastic to perform in the Netherlands this coming fall. We anticipate a great time and are eager to meet so many friends from this part of the world face to face as we bring the music of Shadow Gallery to the stage". Headliner on Sunday 3 October will be Jon Oliva's Pain, who will make their return at ProgPower Europe after their excellent performance back in 2007. Christopher Kinder, drummer of JOP says "Wow...it is with obvious energy and enthusiasm that we are offered the opportunity to headline this killer festival once again. We will arrive ready and eager to satisfy all JOP/Savatage fans. Holland is JO's favorite country as we are always forced to hit the coffee shop before the beginning of every tour! We will spend much time planning this tour. The setlist will be reviewed many, many times so that we can bring the very best of the past and the present to everyone. Thanks again to Rene and all his staff for this warm and very appreciative invitation. And as he said...we will not disappoint! Cheers one and all...our Festival is coming to your stage soon." Check out all details at: www.progpower.eu. Tickets are available through our website, just read all details. Be sure to order your tickets in time because they are limited. DARKWATER: NEW ALBUM IN THE WORKS: The Swedish progressive metal band Darkwater will start recording their second album next week. Joining them on the album is Simon Andersson [ex. Pain of Salvation] on bass. The yet untitled album will be mixed this summer by Fredrik Nordstrom [At the Gates, In Flames, Dimmu Borgir] at Studio Fredman, and is planned for a fall 2010 release through Ulterium Records. Henrik Bath of Darkwater comments: "We're thrilled and eager to head into the studio and record our second album. Our debut album was received so much better than we could have hoped for, but still we feel that we can top it. We've got some great material ready to be recorded, and with the addition of Simon Andersson on bass as well as Fredrik Nordstrom for the mixing of the album everything feels right. We're definitely ready to take everything to the next level with this release." The debut album from Darkwater; "Calling the earth to witness" was released 2007 and received excellent feedback from around the world, and among other things resulted in a show at the Bay Area Rock Festival in San Francisco, CA together with Liquid Tension Experiment in 2008. For more information on Darkwater visit their official MySpace profile: www.myspace.com/darkwaterofficial. MR-X: Update still uploading...stand by...

 

 

Saturday, April 17, 2010

CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: CD Showcase has been given a big update today - the last for a few weeks while I head off to MelodicRockFest. Online today is new preview showcases for: Pretty Maids, John Waite and Triumph (all Frontiers Records, May 14 release); WildSide and Third Eye (both Escape Music, May 21 release); Extreme Live (Frontiers Records, April 23 release); Dreyelands & Gronholm (Lion Music, April 17 release) plus new releases from Newman and Edge Of Forever. Check them out now.

 

 

Friday, April 16, 2010

MELODICROCKFEST UPDATE - 2 WEEKS TO GO!: MelodicRockFest 2 update: I'm working on one last update for the show website that should be ready Monday. Full show and set running times will be posted as well as a couple of other bits and pieces. One thing to mention right now - Monday will be the cut off day for ordering tickets to have them delivered by post. After Monday all orders placed will be held at the venue box office for collection on the day. Tickets are still available for the special VIP package and of course for both Saturday and Sunday. Order now via: www.melodicrockfest.com. FRONTIERS ANNOUNCES KISKE/SOMMERVILLE PROJECT: Kiske/Somerville, the new project featuring former Helloween vocalist Michael Kiske and American singer Amanda Somerville, filmed two videos ­ "Silence" and "If I Had A Wish" ­ on March 28 and March 29 in Nurnberg, Germany. Joining Kiske and Somerville for the shoot were bassist and main composer Mat Sinner (Sinner, Primal Fear), guitarist Sander Gommans (After Forever, HDK), drummer Rami Ali and keyboardist Jimmy Kresic (Voodoo Circle). The clips were directed by Martin Mueller of RCN TV who previously helmed U.D.O.'s "Black and White" and "Mean Streets" and Gotthard's "The Call" videos. Check out behind-the-scenes footage from the video shoot below (click on the image to see the clip):   The Kiske/Somerville debut album is scheduled for release in September. A digital single, "Silence", will be launched in late august before the release of the full album. Commented Mat Sinner: "The first video clip is for ther song and first single of the album, 'Silence', and was shot at the Opera House. The second video clip was shot for the song 'If I Had A Wish' in an old and closed public bath. Hard job for all of us, but we had a fantastic time!" The songs that will end up on the album (not final sequence; composers for each track listed in parenthesis) are: 01. Nothing Left To Say (Mat Sinner & Magnus Karlsson) 02. Silence (Mat Sinner & Magnus Karlsson) 03. If I Had A Wish (Mat Sinner & Magnus Karlsson) 04. One Night Burning (Mat Sinner & Magnus Karlsson) 05. Arise (Sander Gommans & Amanda Somerville) 06. End Of The Road (Mat Sinner & Jimmy Kresic) 07. Don't Walk Away (Mat Sinner & Magnus Karlsson) 08. Devil In Her Heart (Mat Sinner & Jimmy Kresic) 09. Rain (Mat Sinner & Magnus Karlsson) 10. A Thousand Suns (Sander Gommans & Amanda Somerville) 11. Second Chance (Mat Sinner & Magnus Karlsson) Bonus Track: 12. Set A Fire (Sander Gommans & Amanda Somerville). Somerville is the American singer-songwriter and vocal coach who was tapped to replace Epica vocalist Simone Simons on the band's North American tour with Symphony X due to Simons' health issues. Amanda was also featured on Kamelot's latest release, "Ghost Opera", and toured with Avantasia. She released her solo album, "Windows", in 2008. A Michigan native, Amanda has resided and worked mainly in Germany and the Netherlands since 1999. She has collaborated with several other bands in the metal scene along with producers Sascha Paeth and Miro, and co-wrote the rock opera "Aina". Her own music is of the pop-rock genre. AOR HEAVEN & METAL HEAVEN - WICKED SENSATION AND BAD HABIT IN JUNE: In 2001, Wicked Sensation for the first time stepped into the spotlight of the international hard rock scene with their highly praised debut album "Reflected". Shortly after, Wicked Sensation was featured in the press as "The Newcomer" of the year, and compared - but not least because of the charismatic voice of Robert Soeterboek - with well known bands like Whitesnake. Their debut "Reflected" was named album of the month in the Rock It! magazine and brought the band exclusive, above average reviews and ratings worldwide. While touring Europe accompanied by the English band Dare, Wicked Sensation was able to demonstrate impressively their qualities as well as their outstanding live performance. Numerous shows and festivals followed the tour with bands like Saxon, Saga, Nazareth, Roger Chapman, M3 classic Whitesnake, Axxis, Vanden Plas, and many others. In 2004 Wicked Sensation released the follow-up album "Exceptional" and Fernando Garcia (ex-Victory) took over the vocals. Once again, Wicked Sensation received outstanding reviews internationally and again was named "Album of the Month" in the Spanish edition of Rock Hard magazine. After several gigs with this formation the band called it quits in 2006 due to musical differences. Michael Klein (founder, songwriter and guitarist of the band) never really wanted to close the topic Wicked Sensation. So in summer 2009, Michael and original singer Robert Soeterboek got back together to arrange a new collaboration. Also joined by bassist and producer Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69) and drummer Dirk Bruinenberg (ex-Elegy/Bob Catley) the top-class album titled "Crystallized" was recorded. "Crystallized" includes all the typical trademarks, which have made Wicked Sensation well known on their debut album, and flawlessly connects with the successes of the early days. Marked by the typical, strong production of Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69), songs ranging from the driving and catchy melodic rock tune to bluesy and soulful inflected songs are featured, all which characterize the typical sound of Wicked Sensation. Again, singer Robert Soeterboek demonstrates the utmost impressive qualities of his vocal performance. Furthermore, "Crystallized" also includes a guest appearance by no other than Helloween's singer Andi Deris. With the high potential hit record "My Turn To Fly", Deris together with Robert gives this song a "certain something" to let this one for sure become a catchy hit track. Even Dutch guitarist Arjen Lucassen (Ayreon, Star One) involved himself to give the album a real rock classic with "Gimme The Night", as well as keyboarder Eric Ragno (Graham Bonnet) contributed keys on "Give It Up". "Crystallized" impresses with a variety of first class songs, which definitely have a convincing impact. Due to the distinctive guitar playing and songwriting of Michael Klein together as a team with Robert Soeterboek and Dennis Ward, this new Wicked Sensation album will most certainly be the surprise of 2010! Soundfiles in advance: Better World / Fistful Of Dreams / My Turn To Fly. More info: www.myspace.com/wickedsensationmusic / www.wickedsensation.de.   The legendary AOR band Bad Habit formed in Lund, Sweden in 1986 by Hal Marabel and now ex-keyboard player Doc Pat Shannon. They released their first album (mini-album) 'Young & Innocent' in 1987 and were actually the first band to get an independently produced music video aired on Swedish national TV. The video was of their first ever single release 'Need Somebody'. The band have since released 8 albums, the latest of them released in 2008, entitled 'Above And Beyond'. Bad Habit now return with a 'best of' album entitled 'Timeless', which features a collection of songs from the albums - 'Young & Innocent', 'After Hours', 'Revolution' and 'Above And Beyond', as well as two new and previously un-released songs. For the avid Bad Habit fan, and for those who wish to have the band's best songs in their posession - this collection is a must... Soundfiles in advance: Rock This Town / Turning Water Into Wine. Tracklist: 1. Turning Water Into Wine, 2. Rock This Town, 3. Play The Game, 4. Heart Of mine, 5. A Lot To Learn, 6. Rowena, 7. Lost Without You, 8. Hunger, 9. Winner Takes It All, 10. Everytime I See You, 11. Another Night, 12. I Don't Want You, 13. Sad But True, 14. Living On The Edge, 15. Surrender, 16. Need Somebody. Tracks 1,2 - previously un-released. Tracks 3,6, 9,14 - taken from the album ' After Hours'. Tracks 5, 12, 15 - taken from the album ' Above And Beyond'. Tracks 8, 11, 13 - taken from the album 'Revolution'. Tracks 16 - taken from the album 'Young & Innocent'. WebLink: badhabitvip.com.   AOR Heaven is pleased to announce the signing of Australian Melodic Rock outfit White Widdow to their label for worldwide release. White Widdow hail from Melbourne, Australia and were formed in 2008 with the sole purpose of recreating the hard edged AOR sound of bands like Aviator, White Sister, Treat, Icon and Bon Jovi. "We are very excited to be working with Georg at AOR Heaven for our debut album, and to be on a label that is home to many of our AOR heroes such as FM, Stage Dolls, Fair Warning, TNT and Bad Habit is truly amazing", said frontman Julez Mephisto. White Widdow are: Julez Mephisto - Vocals, Enzo Almanzi - Guitars, Trent Wilson - Bass, Xavier Millis - Keyboards, Jim Naish - Drums. The self titled debut album will be released later in 2010 and will be mixed and mastered by Chris Laney at Polar Studios in Sweden. Track titles include; Tokyo Rain, Change Of Passion, Broken Hearts Don't Last Forever, Don't Fail Me Now, Cross To Bare, Spirit Of Fire, One More Day, Shadows Of Love, How Far I Run, Fire & Ice. WebLink: www.whitewiddow.com.   Powerworld, the band around Ilker Ersin (ex-Freedom Call), Barish Kepic (ex Jaded Heart), Nils Neumann (ex Freedom Call) welcomes two high-profiled new members in the line-up: Andrew "Mac" McDermott (ex Threshold) joins the Nuremberg, Germany based outfit on vocals and Achim Keller (Victory) takes over the drums. The five-piece is currently working on the recordings of their second release which will be entitled "Tame Your Demon". Metal Heaven will announce a release date for this product soon. WebLink: www.powerworld.org / www.metalheaven.net.   JUDAS PRIEST ON HD NET THIS SUNDAY NIGHT: Find yourself dreading going back to work or school most Sunday nights? Well, Judas Priest is offering to blow away any Sunday blues you may be experiencing on the evening of April 18th, when two kick-ass Priest programs will air on HD NET at 6:25pm EST and 6:55pm EST, respectively. First up will be The Making of British Steel, as all four original members look back on how they created one of the most influential (and biggest selling) heavy metal records of all time. With clips and stories of the entire process thirty years later, this special is a music lover's dream. And immediately following will be Judas Priest Live: British Steel 30th Anniversary Special, which sees the group play the entire classic British Steel album in its entirety (as well as other Priest classics) from the Hard Rock Seminole Arena in Hollywood, Florida. The latter live performance will also be included as a DVD with the upcoming British Steel 30th Anniversary, which is set for release on May 11th. Long considered one of heavy metals all-time classic albums, British Steel (originally released in 1980) spawned such Priest classics as Breaking the Law and Living After Midnight, and is pound for pound arguably one of Priests strongest and most potent recording from front to back. British Steel 30th Anniversary will be made available as two different versions - one that will be available online and in stores, as well as one that will be sold exclusively through the groups site (which features the British Steel CD and the live DVD, as well as a CD which is the audio counterpart of the DVD - minus one track). Get ready to break the law once more with the mighty Priest! For more information, visit: www.judaspriest.com. ROCK SUGAR TO APPEAR ON HARD ROCK NIGHTS: Mash-up metal band talks about record, concerts, future plans - Apr 15, 2010 – Rock Sugar, the band famous for combining hard rock classics with 1980s bubblegum pop, will be the special guests on the April 16-22 edition of Hard Rock Nights. Chuck Duran, Alex Track, and Johnny Five join JT to discuss the Rock Sugar album "Reimaginator" as well as future plans for the group. The band has received a good deal of buzz thanks to the video for their first singe, "Don't Stop The Sandman" (www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mr4HffbAUTk), a combination of Metallica's "Enter Sandman" and Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'." Hard Rock Nights is a weekly syndicated radio program broadcast on a number of rock and metal stations. For a full list, visit: hardrocknights.wordpress.com/affiliates. MR-X MONDAY: MR-X update due Monday this week. Also next week one more batch of new Reviews and some pre-MRF2 wrap ups... Big CD Showcase update tomorrow. Or, as it is 2am here, a little later today. Just didn't quite get the update completed yet.

 

 

Thursday, April 15, 2010

HOUSE OF SHAKIRA WELCOMES ANDREAS NOVAK AS NEW VOCALIST: As highly acclaimed Swedish melodic rockers House Of Shakira head towards the start of their third decade in the business; April 2010 marks both the end of an era and the start of a new chapter for the band with the addition of new lead vocalist Andreas Novak (Novak/Mind's Eye) joining the band. The arrival of Andreas Novak marks the amicable departure of vocalist Andreas Eklund. On the reasons behind the change in personnel bassist Per Schelander comments, "It's hard for us to believe that it was thirteen years ago in 1997 that Andreas Eklund walked into our rehearsal studio and blew us away with power and high notes. Back in '97 we were dead sure that we would never find a singer that was able to take on those melodies that Mikael Eriksson left us with (and continued to write) but Andreas proved us wrong". "However, when we started to work on the songs for what will be our sixth album we all felt that these new songs called for another voice and expression. We also felt strongly that we needed to work with a singer that wrote his own lyrics. It was one of the hardest decisions we have had to make to ask Andreas Eklund to leave the band but there was no way around it but to part ways. We look back on the last 13 years and the ups and downs during these years proudly, as well as integral in shaping the band as it is today. But, life often calls for tough decisions and as all our fans know, HoS are no quitters!" "So we are incredibly proud when we announce that our new vocalist is Andreas Novak". "We first heard Andreas's wonderful vocals on the magnificent Mind's Eye album 'A Gentleman's Hurricane' and it's a voice that we all feel is perfect for the material we are writing at present. Andreas shares the same love for music with melodies as we do and our expectations on our collaboration are extremely high and we hope to enter the studio to begin recording in May". The new House Of Shakira line-up will make its live debut on April 24 at The Cave in Stockholm and the band invite all to join them in welcoming Andreas Novak to the fold and with seeing in the next chapter in the bands history with a bang! WebLinks: www.houseofshakira.com / www.lionmusic.com.   FRONTIERS RECORDS - ARTIST NEWS: Pretty Maids have just finished the shooting of the video clip for the single Little Drops of Heaven under the direction of Thomas Tjader (Saint Deamon), taken from the forthcoming album Pandemonium to be released on Frontiers Records on May 14 in Europe and June 8 in the USA. The video can now be seen on YouTube clicking on the image below. Little Drops of Heaven will also be released as a digital single only on Friday April 16.   Two more Frontiers Records band was confirmed recently for the Sweden Rock Festival: Praying Mantis and Treat were added to the bill in addition to the already confirmed Cinderella, Winger,Y&T, Jorn, Rick Springfield. On a related note the recent Treat album Coup De Grace was awarded an amazing 100/100 review on Melodicrock.com Click below to read the article: www.melodicrock.com/reviews/reviews.html. Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of Melodic Rock Fanzine. The 37th release of the successful magazine is available for free all over the world through record shops, mail orders and every fine dealer carrying the Frontiers Records releases. This new issue includes reviews and interviews of Asia, Extreme, Auras, Tesla, Big Ball, Sven Larsson, Crashdiet, The Glitterati, Neverland, Serpentine, FM, Crazy Lixx, Alan Parsons, Treat... and more! Electronic readable version of the magazine is available on the Frontiers official site and here. Here are the previews of the two Melodic Rock Fanzine covers:   xx ROCK CANDY'S UPCOMING TREATS: Rock Candy Records have a couple of great artists lined up for full re-issue treatment in 2010. Soon they will deliver the first two Badlands albums in remastered glory and then move onto Jeff Paris for his two cult AOR releases Wired Up (an absolute all-time classic - see the Rock United interview with Jeff) and Race To Paradise. TOMMY LaVERDI TAKES UP SWINGING: Another AOR legend is Swedish vocalist Tommy LaVerdi. Vocalist for the magnificent 21 Guns debut album Salute, Tommy has rarely been heard from since, but keeps busy in his native Sweden. Now he has a new project, but sorry melodic rock fans - it isn't quite what you might be looking for: The New Swing Generation is a 9-piece mini-big band from Oslo, Norway. We are trying to celebrate the monster-mega hits from the last couple of decades in the spirit of the swing-era, with a solid dose of of humor and musicianship, and looking sharp while doing it. The members of the band are all working musicians, and are handpicked from the very best of what Oslo has to offer. Our repertoire is very diverse, and includes famous songs from AC/DC, Deep Purple, Madonna, Justin Timberlake, Maroon 5, Britney Spears, The Police, Thin Lizzy, Van Halen, Usher, Bon Jovi, Tina Turner, Village People, ABBA, Bee Gees etc. etc.. All in our own original arrangements, of course, written by the bands guitarist Jens Thoresen :-) Line-Up: Fredrik Øie Jensen / t-sax, Håvard Fossum / a-sax, Marius Haltli / trumpet, Jørgen Gjerde / trombone, Tommy La Verdi / vocal, Jens Thoresen / guitar, Henrik Mosnes / piano, Eirik Andre Rydningen / drums, Bjørn Enoksen / bass. WebLinks: www.virvelunderholdning.no / www.myspace.com/newswinggeneration.   DOOGIE WHITE READIES SOLO ALBUM: Vocalist Doogie White's debut solo album As Yet Untitled is completed and negotiations are underway for a release date. The Track listing is: CTTB, Time Machine, Lonely, Dreams Lie Down and Die, Land of the Deceiver, Sea of Emotion, Catz Got Yer Tongue, Living on the Cheap, Times Like These, Small Town Saturday Night. Players on the album include: Keys: Tony Carey and Derek Sherinian; Bass: Neil Murray and Greg Smith (Rainbow, Alice Cooper, Ted Nugent); Drums: Patrick Johansson (Yngwie, WASP) Thomas Broman; Guitar: Pontus Norgren (Hammerfall), Marcus Jidell (Royal Hunt), Phil Hilborne. Guest vocals: Patti Russo (Meatloaf, Cher). Tour Dates - Doogie on tour with Rata Blanca in Argentina 18.05.10 La Trastienda - Ciudad de Buenos Aires 19.05.10 La Trastienda - Ciudad de Buenos Aires 28.05.10 La Vieja Usina - Córdoba 29.05.10 Teatro Brodway - Rosario (More dates to be announced) Brazil tour with Nick Simper (Dates to be announced for June) Luxembourg, with Jon Lord & Big Band Opus 78 23.06.10 Square Guillaume. Featuring Doogie White and Kasia Laska (vocals). London (Pre-Wimbledon Bash featuring Pat Cash and very special guests.) 26.06.10 (Venue to be announced) R.I.P. GLAM AND METAL NAMES: Pretty Boy Floyd bassist Vinnie Chas has died. And Type O Negative frontman Peter Steele has also died. R.I.P. Vinnie and Peter. The following message has been posted on Facebook by Aeriel Styles who played with Vinnie and Pretty Boy Floyd: "In Memory Vinnie Chas. Dear friends, I am extremely sad to confirm here that original Pretty Boy Floyd bassist Vinnie Chas has passed away. There have been posts & rumors on the net, so I called the company Vinnie worked for to confirm it for myself. I do not have the all specific details and the family wished to keep it private, so all I know at this time is that it was a sudden onset of illness and he passed away over Easter weekend. He called into work ill on Friday and when no one could reach him on Monday, they sensed something was wrong and went to his home, where he was found dead. Vinnie was going to be working with me on some new recordings for Kery Doll, but unfortunately we ran out of time. I rarely get the time to log on to Facebook, so forgive me if I cannot respond to messages for some time. Plus, as you can imagine, this is devastating news and I need some time to grieve. Aeriel Stiles." Peter Steele: www.entertainmentandshowbiz.com/peter-steele-peter-steele-dead. FM TO ADD AIRRACE AND ROMEO'S DAUGHTER AS LIVE SUPPORT: It gives FM great pleasure to announce Airrace and Romeo's Daughter will be joining the band on their May and July dates. Airrace are special guests for Sheffield May 20, Glasgow May 21 and Cardiff July 08. Romeo's Daughter will be special guests at Birmingham May 23 and London July 09. Special guests for Belfast will be announced soon. May 2010 20 Sheffield O2 Academy2 with Airrace 21 Glasgow Cathouse with Airrace 22 Belfast Spring & Airbrake t.b.c. 23 Birmingham O2 Academy2 with Romeo's Daughter July 2010 08 Cardiff Millennium Plaza with Airrace 09 London Islington O2 Academy with Romeo's Daughter For full details and to check out the new FM album Metropolis go to www.fmofficial.com. STREAM RATT'S NEW INFESTATION ALBUM NOW: Ratt's highly anticipated new album Infestation can be streamed in its entirety exclusively on therattpack.com. Infestation is Ratt's first album in 10 years from these kings of the Sunset Strip, the album finds Ratt tapping their early-day sound for a new generation. With the addition of Quiet Riot guitarist Carlos Cavazo alongside Ratt's legendary axeman Warren DeMartini, the ripping riffs and signature solos take these tracks to great heights, while frontman Stephen Pearcy's catchy verse brands itself into your mind, warranting repeated listens. AC/DC: IRON MAN 2 PACKAGES TO BE RELEASED MONDAY APRIL 19, 2010: Columbia Records will release the AC/DC: Iron Man 2 Collector's Edition, a CD/DVD combination that includes an exclusive limited edition reprint of the 1968 "The Invincible Iron Man" #1 comic book, with a variant front cover featuring AC/DC. The book is illustrated by Marvel artist John Romita, Jr., and features an Angus Young-illustrated cartoon on the back. The AC/DC: Iron Man 2 Collector's Edition also includes a 7 7/8" x 10 3/4" foil-stamped 32 page hardcover book featuring liner notes from David Fricke, a foldout AC/DC poster, and AC/DC stickers. In addition to the CD/DVD combos contained in the Collector's and Deluxe Editions, AC/DC: Iron Man 2 is also available as a single CD and Double LP package. AC/DC: Iron Man 2 features 15 classic AC/DC songs selected from ten of the band's studio albums, ranging from 1976 to 2008. The DVD, included in both AC/DC: Iron Man 2 Collector's and Deluxe Editions, features more than 50 minutes of AC/DC video content and exclusive first-look scenes from the film. Live concert footage ranges from their early years with the legendary Bon Scott through their current "Black Ice World Tour." Complete track listing and DVD content description can be found below. All AC/DC: Iron Man 2 packages – the CD, the CD/DVD Deluxe Edition, and Double LP set - are scheduled for release on April 19, 2010. The Collector's Edition CD/DVD combination is now available for pre-order at the new AC/DC: Iron Man 2 Store. Pre-orders are also being taken at the AC/DC: Iron Man 2 Store for the Deluxe CD/DVD and Double LP versions of AC/DC: Iron Man 2. The CD/DVD set features 15 classic AC/DC songs in a hardcover package with a 32-page booklet featuring liner notes by David Fricke, plus 50 minutes of videos. The Double LP set includes the entire AC/DC: Iron Man 2 album on 180 gram vinyl. AC/DC's classic cut "Shoot To Thrill" is the debut video from AC/DC: Iron Man 2, which was filmed live in Buenos Aires in December during the band's highly acclaimed Black Ice World Tour, and incorporates exclusive footage from the film "Iron Man 2." "Shoot To Thrill" was originally recorded for the band's 50-million selling album Back In Black, one of the best-selling albums of all time. The film opens internationally beginning on April 28, 2010. In the U.S., the film will be distributed by Paramount Pictures and is scheduled for release on May 7, 2010. Based on Marvel's iconic Super Hero, "Iron Man 2" continues the story of 2008's box office smash hit "IRON MAN," which grossed nearly $600 million worldwide, and was the first feature film produced independently by Marvel Studios. "IRON MAN 2" is being produced by Marvel Studios' President, Kevin Feige. AC/DC: Iron Man 2 Track Listing: 1. Shoot to Thrill 2. Rock N Roll Damnation 3. Guns for Hire 4. Cold Hearted Man 5. Back in Black 6. Thunderstruck 7. If You Want Blood (You've Got It) 8. Evil Walks 9. T.N.T. 10. Hell Ain't a Bad Place to Be 11. Have a Drink on Me 12. The Razor's Edge 13. Let There Be Rock 14. War Machine 15. Highway to Hell. DVD Contents: · Shoot To Thrill ("Iron Man 2" Video) · The Making Of "Shoot To Thrill" Music Video · Highway To Hell (Live At River Plate Stadium, Buenos Aires - 2009) · Rock 'N' Roll Damnation (Live At Apollo Theatre, Glasgow - 1978) · If You Want Blood (You've Got It) (Highway To Hell promo clip - 1979) · Back In Black (Live At Plaza De Toros De Las Ventas, Madrid - 1996) · Guns For Hire (Live At Joe Louis Arena, Detroit, MI - 1983) · Thunderstruck (Live At Donington Park - 1991) · Let There Be Rock (Live At Plaza De Toros De Las Ventas, Madrid - 1996) · Hell Ain't A Bad Place To Be (Live At Circus Krone, Munich - 2003).   MELODIC ROCK IS BACK VOL 10 OUT NOW: The brand new Melodic Rock compilation from Germany's No.1 Rock radio in the web Munich's Hardest Hits is out now. 17 hot and catchy AOR, Melodic Rock and Hard rock tracks incl. amongst others: prev. unreleased tracks from British AOR legends Outside Edge and Munich's hottest rock act Rotten Rose - feat. Chris Lausmann (Voices Of Rock). See complete track list as follows: Titan - Hero, Stiletto - Freedom, Joseph Chandler - Bad Move, Free Spirit - Shadow Of A Man, Outside Edge - Drowning Man, Stateline - Can't Get Enough, Last Cry - City Queen, Thrills - You Don't Remember Me, Rotten Rose - The River, Nine-T-Nine - Caught In A Trap, House Of Games - Evil In Needle, Allied Nation - If We Try, Calie Cox - Midnight's Dreaming, Metal Scent - Falling So Deep, Unbreakable - Leave Me One More Time, Covered Call - Never Again, Vishusgruv - Missing You. For more information please check out www.munichshardesthits.com.

 

 

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

AVANTASIA SCORES BIG IN GERMANY: A fantastic chart entry on #2 in Germany for Avantasia's duel The Wicked Symphony and Angel Of Babylon releases. Two records have been released at the same time, with a load of celebrated guest musicians like Klaus Meine (Scorpions), Eric Singer and Bruce Kulick (Kiss), Ripper Owens (ex-Judas Priest) and many more. Tobias Sammet commented on his highest chart entry ever: "Not too bad. I mean, it could have been worse: Avantasia could have been fourth-positioned. Or on #9. Or the pressing plant could have printed the wrong name on the CD. It's too dreadful to think about what could have happened if the 289 juggernauts with the first edition of the album got lost! But life doesn't take place in subjunctive: I'm ok with being a number two in the German album charts. It isn't as good as a number one, but a little bit better than a number three. And between you and me: This wonderful "The Wicked Symphony / Angel Of Babylon"-package has deserved it. All those beautiful pictures, the booklet, 22 hits, not to forget about the smashing box made of cardboard. And so on, and so forth! And of course the bunch of superb guest artists. The best, the greatest and most adorable guest musicians to work with. I owe this to you! And who do I have to thank for this, too? The fans, the best fans on earth. Thank you very, very, very much!"   xx ACCEPT SIGN TO NUCLEAR BLAST: Press Release / All over the world, media has been busy for months, reporting about the comeback of heavy metal pioneers Accept! After resting for many years, the German based musicians started to work on a new album. Mark Tornillo - formerly lead singer of TT Quick completed the heavy metal formation! Born in the eighties, Accept started to conquer the world: Gold status in the USA, top chart positions in Europe and Japan and touring with acts like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Mötley Crüe, Ozzy Osbourne and Kiss led to a total success all over the world. Accept created their own legend! In 2010, 14 years later, Accept is about to release their 15th album Blood Of The Nations. The record will be published worldwide by the highly respected record label Nuclear Blast. The new record "Blood Of The Nations" will be released all over the world in mid 2010. Andy Sneap, the international renowned UK producer (Megadeth, Bullet For My Valentine, Machine Head, Exodus, Killswitch Engage) produced "Blood Of The Nations". 14 songs - proof of a new Accept decade, brutal and melodic at the same time- in a classical style, but with a modern sound. MELODIC BRIEFS: Singer Louis D'Augusta of the band Mass checked in with Hardrock Haven to discuss their upcoming new studio release Sea of Black; how the new music compares to their previous critically acclaimed album Crack of Dawn; how he manages to keep his vocal prowess in superior shape; the CD release party and upcoming tour plans; how downloading impacts Mass; and a whole lot more. To hear the audio interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/louis-daugusta-of-mass. Japanese superstar guitarist Tak Matsumoto (TMG) is back with another solo release, this time teaming with the legendary Larry Carlton for the album Take Your Pick. The CD is released in Japan June 2 and is perhaps a best heard first proposition for hard rock fans. Reggie Boyle has interviewed Marco Mendoza to promote a new solo CD Marco has coming out soon. Read now at: www.stevelukather.net/Interview.aspx?id=91. POWER QUEST NAME ALBUM: A new Power Quest update out today: "We can now reveal that the forthcoming fifth Power Quest record will be titled Blood Alliance. Work on the new material continues apace and the songs that have been demoed so far are sounding awesome and true to the PQ tradition of catchy, melodic metal. We had a huge amount of applicants from all over the world and went through a lot of interesting options over the past weeks. The selection process will now get into the next round, with auditions starting on May 2nd. Check our website and MySpace regularly for updates. Want to see your name in the "Blood Alliance" album thanks list? We are offering the opportunity to anyone who spends over $50 at the PQ online store between now and July! www.power-quest.co.uk/shop.html. JEFF BECK CAUSES A COMMOTION: Emotion and Commotion - the new album from legendary guitarist Jeff Beck is now available everywhere. The new album is a collection of songs that suit Jeff's adventurous style, with some cushioned by a symphony orchestra and another featuring young soul singer Joss Stone. The exclusive iTunes deluxe LP includes the bonus track 'Poor Boy', guitar tabs, Jeff Beck track-by-track, 30 minute video interview with Alice Cooper and more! Exclusive content, contests, and embeddable media available at: emotionandcommotion.com.

 

 

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL UK FINALIZES LINE-UP: The 2010 Download Festival, to be held in the UK in July will now feature the following bands after Rock Sugar, Tyketto and Michael Monroe were just added to the list of bands appearing: www.downloadfestival.co.uk. Listed A-Z: A Day To Remember, Ac/Dc, Aerosmith, Airbourne, As I Lay Dying, Atreyu, August Burns Red, Billy Idol, Breed 77, Bullet For My Valentine, Cancer Bats, Cinderella, Coheed And Cambria, Deftones, Die Apokalyptischen Rieter, Dillinger Escape Plan, Dommin, Enuff Z'nuff, Five Finger Death Punch, Flyleaf, Glamour Of The Kill, H-M, Halestorm, Hell Yeah, Him, Holy Grail, Job For A Cowboy, Lamb Of God, Megadeth, Michael Monroe, Motörhead, No Americana, Nonpoint, Panic Cell, Porcupine Tree, Rage Against The Machine, Ratt, Revoker, Rise To Remain, Rock Sugar, Saxon, Senser, Slash, Steel Panther, Stone Sour, Stone Temple Pilots, Straight Lines, Sweethead, Sybreed, Taking Dawn, The Damned Things, The Used, Them Crooked Vultures. KISS TO HELP FANS GET LATHERED UP: Care to rub a piece of Kiss memorabilia all over your body each morning? well, you may already do that (and I'm not judging you!!), but now you can do this without fear or damaging body parts with new Kiss Soap! "Official KISS Bar soap, perfect for the shower, bath or sink. This JUMBO size is two and a half times larger than your regular bar soap measuring in at 5 inches wide and weighing 11.5 oz! The KISS logo is boldly and deeply etched into the surface and best of all, is lightly scented with the official KISS HIM fragrance. We are offering them singly as well as in discounted sets of 3 because we know you want to have one to use, one to display and one to give to Grandma. Each bar of soap is new and sealed in a clear cellophane wrapper." ALAN PARSONS SETTING UP RECORDING PLANS: Legendary musician/engineer/producer Alan Parsons is still very active after a career that spans four decades. In addition to the release of a new live DVD/CD Eye To Eye – Live In Madrid, in an interview with Long Live Rock (www.blogtalkradio.com/longliverock) Parsons said that he is considering recording a new studio album this year as well. "I think I probably will make an album over the next twelve months," Parsons told hosts Sterling Whitaker and Jeb Wright. He also divulged the name of one likely guest vocalist. "I think it almost goes without saying that if I make this album, I will definitely get Kip Winger involved in at least one track." The Winger leader has worked with the Alan Parsons Live Project in the past, and in his own interview with Long Live Rock he shared the story of writing a letter to Alan when he was just another young fan, and how he treasured the letter Parsons wrote back for years and years. When he finally got to work with Alan, Kip showed him the actual letter, a story Parsons confirmed. "Thank God I did write back to him," Parsons said with a laugh. "There were a lot of people I didn't write back to. Kip's a lovely guy and a great singer, and a great musical talent. I love him to death." In the meantime there's a new track called "All Our Yesterdays" included on Parsons' new 3 DVD project The Art and Science of Sound Recording, in which the legendary engineer - who began his career as an assistant engineer at Abbey Road working with The Beatles, and went on to score the first of ten Grammy nominations by engineering Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon - interviews many of the top engineers and producers in the world, from rock to country, on the subject of sound recording and production. The film documents the recording process for "All Our Yesterdays" from inception, right up to final mix. Listen to the interview at: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/04/12/interview-with-alan-parsons-from-long-live-rock. INTRODUCING ORION'S REIGN: Greek Power/Melodic Metal Band Orion's Reign new CD entitled Nuclear Winter - is now about to be released worldwide April 30. 7Hard is proud to announce handle the world wide distribution. Limited Deluxe Edition - 1000 copies with 16 Tracks including two newly recorded, previously unreleased tracks. The keyboards blend with the symphonic metal and the metallic riffs – and a great vocals performance. Tracks: 1. Amidst The Battle, 2. Nuclear Winter, 3. Cruor Ritus, 4. Darkness Comes, 5. A Way Out, 6. Steel Horizons, 7. Medfeast, 8. Oldead, 9. Beyond Eternity 1 - The Parting, 10. Beyond Eternity 2 - The Slaughter, 11. Beyond Eternity 3 - The Vision Bonus tracks: 12. Dawn In Carnage, 13. Last Stand, 14. Siege Of Ruad, 15. Last Stand (Orchestral Version), 16. Siege Of Ruad (Orchestral Version) Album Credits: Yiannis – Vocals, Themis – Guitars, Kostas – Bass, Kyriakos – Keys, Noel – Drums Guest Appearances: Bob Katsionis on tracks 13,14 (Firewind), Vangelis Yalamas on tracks 4,6 (Fragile Vastness), Theodore Ziras on track 5 (Theodore Ziras/Euroforce), Darkface on track 2 (WEB), Yiannis Papadopoulos on tracks 13,14 (Burden of Legacy), Nina Kassis on tracks 2,5 (Ex-Wastefall), Vicky Psaraki on tracks 16, 14, Emmanouil Papaioannou on track 4 (Imature Death), Morfoula Papageorgiou on track 10 (Athens Symphonic Orchestra), Fotini Thoma on track 10. Orion's Reign: The six member group stand out not only with typical NWoBHM arrangements, their style – powerful – melodic and most of all Symphonic – Epical and Majestic. The keyboards blend with the symphonic metal and the metallic riffs – and great vocals performance. Check: www.myspace.com/orionsreign / www.rockitup.de / www.rockngrowl.com and www.7hart.de for all announcements.   VENICE ALUMNI TO HELP CELEBRATE ANNIVERSARY MILESTONE: Kipp Lennon, Mark Lennon and Michael Lennon from the band Venice have been invited to participate as backup singers, bringing their trademark harmonies to what will undoubtedly be one of the biggest concert events of the year: Roger Waters' 30th Anniversary Tour of "Pink Floyd's The Wall." To learn more about the tour, check out www.rogerwaters.com. And to learn more about Venice, please visit www.venicecentral.com.

 

 

Monday, April 12, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS SIGNS VINCE NEIL FOR THE EUROPEAN RELEASE OF HIS NEW SOLO ALBUM: Motley Crue singer Vince Neil upcoming solo album Tattoos and Tequila has been signed by Frontiers Records for release on June 4th in Europe. The album's title track will be released as a digital download and will be available April 16th in Europe at all digital shops. The music video along with the single was made available for download on www.vinceneil.net earlier this year, but now it can also be seen on the Frontiers Records YouTube channel following this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PfWPtAsIF8. Vince Neil recorded the new album in the winter of 2009 together with his band, formed by bassist Dana Strum, guitarist Jeff Blando (both of Slaughter) and drummer Zoltan Chaney. The album will include 2 new songs: "Tattoos and Tequila" and "Another Bad Day" both produced by Marti Frederiksen (Aerosmith, Ozzy Osbourne, Def Leppard etc), plus a selection of classic cuts from some of the Rock giants that have influenced Vince Neil throughout his musical career. The cover songs were produced by Vince and Jack Blades (Damn Yankees, Night Ranger). In a recent interview Vince Neil stated: "This album has nothing to do with Motley Crue, Tattoos and Tequila is basically my life" and definitely the new record shows a new, yet familiar side of Vince's abilities. "Tattoos and Tequila" track listing will include: Tattoos & Tequila (Album Version); He's A Whore (Cheap Trick); AC/DC (Sweet); Nobody's Fault (Aerosmith); Another Bad Day; No Feelings (Sex Pistols); Long Cool Woman (The Hollies); Another Piece Of Meat (The Scorpions); Who Will Stop The Rain (Creedence Clearwater Revival); Viva Las Vegas (Elvis Presley); Bitch Is Back (Elton John); Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers (ZZ Top)* / * Bonus track available on first pressing in digipak. As frontman for Mötley Crüe, Vince Neil came to exemplify all things rock and roll: the sound, the look, the outrageous lifestyle. Neil's unmistakable voice leads some of the greatest rock songs of this generation including "Shout At The Devil," "Home Sweet Home," "Girls, Girls, Girls," "Dr. Feelgood," "Kickstart My Heart," "Same Ol Situation," and the recent "Saints of Los Angeles," which was nominated for a Grammy Award in early 2009 for Best Hard Rock Performance. As a solo artist, Vince's Top 200 Billboard albums, Exposed (which reached number 13 on the Billboard Albums chart) and Carved In Stone have spurred the hits "You're Invited (But Your Friend Can't Come)" (co-written by Neil with Jack Blades and Tommy Shaw), "Can't Have Your Cake" (co-written by Neil with Steve Stevens) and "Sister Of Pain" (co-written by Neil with Jack Blades and Tommy Shaw). When he is not performing or raising money for charity (the foundation founded as a tribute to Vince's daughter Skylar whom he lost to cancer in 1995, to date has raised over $2 million to help combat childhood cancer), Neil is also an accomplished businessman overseeing his latest entrepreneurial efforts which include Feelgoods Rock Bar and Grill in West Palm Beach and most recently in Las Vegas; Vince Neil Ink, a Las Vegas based body art shop; Tres Rios tequila and Vince Neil Aviation. Weblinks: www.vinceneil.net / www.myspace.com/vinceneilofficial / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords. MOTLEY CRUE Confirmed Summer Dates in Europe: Jul 31, 2010 Knebworth Park (Sonisphere Festival) Knebworth, UK Aug 7, 2010 Stora Skuggan (Sonisphere Festival) Stockholm, Sweden Aug 8, 2010 Kirjurinluoto (Sonisphere Festival) Pori, Finland   xxxx DOKKEN'S NEW GREATEST ON MP3 NOW: Cleopatra Records have announced a May 4 release date for Dokken's new re-recorded Greatest Hits CD, but Amazon has it available now in MP3 form. Track listing: 1 Just Got Lucky 2. Breaking The Chains 3. Into The Fire 4. The Hunter 5. In My Dreams 6. It's Not Love 7. Alone Again 8. Dream Warriors 9. Unchain The Night 10. Tooth And Nail 11. Almost Over 12. Magic Man. WebLink: www.amazon.com/Greatest-Hits-Re-Recorded-Remastered-Versions/.   ANNOUNCING 'MOODY - MURRAY'S MONSTERS OF BRITISH ROCK': Six of the UK's most highly-esteemed and experienced rock musicians have joined forces to create Monsters of British Rock! Original Whitesnake members Micky Moody and Neil Murray have teamed up with Laurie Wisefield (Wishbone Ash), Harry James (Thunder), Chris Ousey (Heartland) and Michael Bramwell (We Will Rock You) to bring you classic twin-guitar based rock as it should be played. Playing classic rock songs that they helped create, such as Whitesnake's Here I Go Again, Fool For Your Loving, Don't Break My Heart Again, Ready An' Willing and Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City, together with other hits from the band members' back catalogue, Monsters of British Rock are the genuine article. The list of world-class bands and musicians that the members of Monsters of British Rock have collectively played with runs into literally hundreds: Eric Clapton, Tina Turner, Joe Cocker, Jeff Beck, Gary Moore, Magnum, Queen & Paul Rodgers, just to name a few. This is one Monster of a rock band! Micky Moody - guitar, slide guitar, vocals; Neil Murray - bass; Laurie Wisefield - guitar, vocals; Harry James - drums, vocals; Chris Ousey - lead vocals; Michael Bramwell - keyboards. Tour Dates: May Saturday 29th Rush Festival, Farnborough Football Club with Special Guests Tygers of Pan Tang and Oliver/Dawson: Saxon June Saturday 5th Schwarzmaar Festival, Weilerswist, Nr. Euskirchen. Germany Saturday 12th Fairfield Halls, Croydon Sunday 13th Dunkirk, France with special guests The Quireboys and John Coghlans Quo Saturday 19th The Ampitheatre, South Shields. Tyne and Wear with Local support July Saturday 17th Thunder Music and Bike Festival. Powderham Castle. Near Exeter with special guests Oliver/Dawson: Saxon. August Saturday 7th Cambridge Rock Festival A Full tour will follow in November 2010. WebLinks: www.rockartistmanagement.com / www.mickymoody.com.   THE 80s ROCKED - LIVE ON STAGE: You'll have to forgive the error, but I mentioned a new radio show Friday when in fact it is actually another all-hits UK tour group that has emerged to call themselves The 80's Rocked. The band will commence touring shortly and features a line up of: Danny Vaughn - Vocals, Guitar; Carl Sentance - Vocals; Simon Wood - Guitars, Vocals; Chris Childs - Bass; Harry James - Drums & Percussion; Jon Pease - Keyboards, Vocals. You can see a promotional video and hear clips at: www.kdcproductions.co.uk/#/the-80s-rocked/4540001641 and join the guys on Facebook here. Their debut live date is at Cambridge Rock Festival, on Thursday August 5: www.cambridgerockfestival.co.uk.   SLEEZE BEEZ HIT THE STAGE AGAIN FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 15 YEARS: Dutch hard rockers Sleeze Beez will perform live for the first time since going their separate ways in 1995. Sharing the bill with Aerosmith, Stone Temple Pilots and Steel Panther, Sleeze Beez will perform in the original line up at the Goffertpark in Nijmegen, Holland on June 23rd, 2010. The band will be performing songs from their best selling US Atlantic Records release Screwed Blued and Tattooed (including the MTV hit Stranger than Paradise) as well as the critically acclaimed Insanity Beach. Lead vocalist Andrew Elt had this to say on the breaking news: "We always wanted to get the band back together. But after all we'd accomplished and been through, making records and touring the world, it just had to be something really special and worthwhile. Performing on the same stage as the mighty Aerosmith, in front of a home crowd, is definitely the right time and place for us to hit the stage again! It will be well worth the wait!" MARK SWEENY DELIVERS ALL IN: Mark Sweeney releases his second solo-record since 2007. All In impressively reveals the sound of rock for 2010. The 12 titles on the new record were produced by rock-icon Michael Voss and others including, but not limited to: Rosenstolz, Michael Schenker, Udo Lindenberg, Doro Pesch, Casanova. The songs are both modern and rock; the ballads stretch very deep. Mark Sweeney was able to get some top-class musicians for his new project. American singer Robin Beck (First Time) joins Mark for a duet. Bruce Kulick's (Ex-Kiss) astonishing contribution confirms that he's one of the world's greatest guitarists. Living legend Stefan Kaufmann (Ex-Accept/U.D.O.) demonstrates with his guitar playing that he is far from being too old to rock and roll! Drummer Jörg Michael's first rate performance showcases his talent and flair. Moreover, Offspring singer Pearl is likely to raise comparisons with Mariah Carey - what a great voice! In 1995, the charismatic shouter joined the band "Cherry Pie", and hit the road with cover tunes. Cherry Pie's repertoire ranged from Bon Jovi to Metallica. Doing countless gigs, national and interna­tional, Sweeney gained further attention and established himself as a rock singer. After a TV-show on the German channel Pro 7, his band got a record deal in 1998 and Cherry Pie became "Crystal Ball." With a new name and the same extraordinary musicians, the band rocked on, dropping cover songs while writing their own original material. Another record followed; it was released in Europe and Asia. Crystal Ball was signed by the world's leading hard rock/metal label, Nuclear Blast (Nightwish etc.). Crystal Ball released three albums with this label and performed approximately 500 shows throughout 10 countries. European tours with Pretty Maids, Dokken, Doro, U.D.O., Axxis and Swiss colleagues from Krokus and Gotthard followed. Crystal Ball led their first European headliner tour with label mates, Thunderstone at the end of 2005. With recognition and merit from good reviews, countless radio and TV-appearances, airplay-charts in Japan, hitting the charts in Switzerland, top rankings in famous magazines and several "Album of the Month" awards, Mark Sweeney became a demanded producer and executive producer while contributing to several other records as background-singer. Mark made himself a name as a guest singer when he toured with the ex-KISS member Bruce Kulick. The boys, meanwhile, a four-man band, got the attention from the smashing label AFM, who in 2007 released their successful album "Secrets". That same year, Mark Sweeney released his first solo record "Slow Food" with Pie Music Records. Mark showed another side of him and surprised the listeners with soothing and emotional songs. The critiques on this album were astonishing, noteworthy and magnificent. Mark Sweeney does it again for 2010 with All In. Track listing: 1. Line Of Fire 2. Why Do You Hate Me 3. Still Alive 4. Gimme A Sign 5. Leave It All Behind 6. Sinner 7. Another Day 8. Stare At The Sun 9. Too Late 10. Moments 11. Chance 12. Demons (Bonus Track). WebLink: www.marksweeney.ch.   NEWMAN ON TOUR: Newman are pleased to announce the following dates in support of their new album The Art Of Balance: 6 August - Barton - Cambridge Rock Festival / Haggis Farm Polo Club, Cambridge Road, Barton, Cambridge, Box Office 01353 749749 www.cambridgerockfestival.co.uk 25 September - Portsmouth - Heroes / 125 London Road Waterlooville, Hampshire 023 9225 3068 31 October - Nottingham - Firefest Festival / Nottingham Rock City, 8 Talbot Street, Nottingham, 0871 3100 000 www.rock-city.co.uk www.thefirefest.com. More dates to follow… MELODIC BRIEFS: Evidence One - Robby comes back! It is now official: Founding member and the man behind the scenes Robby Boebel has returned to the band as steady and performing lead guitarist ! We're all more than just happy to have him back. Robby's already writing and recording tons of new songs! loudndeep-area.blogspot.com/2010/04/evidence-one-retour-de-robby-bobel.html. Ytsejam writer Tommy "Hashman" Hash talks with On The Rise Terje Eide: www.ytsejam.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=8529. A cool new Michael Anthony Interview: www.youtube.com/watch?v=3URflJTp2Rk. A new video interview with Miles Schon (21-yr-old son of Neal Schon) and his band member, John Varn: www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUsb1vQ7cks. MORE GLAMTASTIC MUSIC FROM STEEVI JAIMZ: Steevi Jaimz - singer with Tigertailz for the Young & Crazy album, finally lets loose the old hidden gems from the vault, with great liner notes by Dave Reynolds. 13 great tracks (featuring the classic Cat On A Hot Tin Roof) mastered with fantastic results... Last year's "My Private Hell" was released to worldwide critical acclaim. Written, performed and produced with Chris Laney and Anders Ringman. And now its time to catch up again with some hard hitting songs from Steevi Jaimz. Track Listing: 1. Ragamuffin 2. Don't Live A Lie 3. Shaken Not Stirred 4. Cat On A Hot Tin Roof 5. Sorrow's Got Me In A Hold 6. Take Me To The Limit 7. Gods Will Fly 8. Talk Of The Town 9. Oneiromancy 10. Now You're On Your Own 11. Rodeo 12. Kick That Habit 13. Voodoo Dance. WebLinks: www.steevijaimz.com / www.myspace.com/steevijaimz.   YESTERROCK RECORDS APRIL RE-ISSUES OUT NOW: Munich based re-issue label Yesterrock Records announce the following for April release (out now): Joe Lamont - Secrets You Keep / Joe Lamont, former vocalist and guitarist with the bands Steeplechase and Shelter (USA) originally released his highly acclaimed solo album "Secrets You Keep" in 1985. This record was previously released on vinyl only. Reason enough for Yesterrock, the label specializing in re-issues, to print this brilliant AOR jewel for the first time onto CD. Next to the title track "Secrets You Keep", catchy tunes such "Heartbreak City" and "Victims Of Love" perfectly reflect the spirit of the magic Classic Rock era of the 80's. The studio line-up on this record includes exceptional musicians such as Dan Huff, Vinnie Colaiuta, Bill Cuomo, Alan Pasqua and Paulinho da Costa. Track list: 1. Secrets You Keep, 2. No Explanation, 3. Total Breakdown, 4. Heartbreak City, 5. One Rumor Too Many, 6. The Wanting, 7. Victims Of Love, 8. Sharks, 9. Enemy Lines. Line-Up: Joe Lamont - Vocals; Dan Huff - Guitars; Vinnie Colaiuta - Drums; Paulinho da Costa - Percussion; Bill Cuomo, Alan Pasqua, Richard Gibbs - Synthesizer; Rick Chudacoff, Kerry Hatch, Reggie McBride - Bass. Kidd Glove - Kidd Glove / It all started when Motown decided to add a Rock Division to their company. Getting signed to Motown Records at 22 was quite an experience in itself. A guy by the name of Steve Barri was, at that time, the head of A&R at Motown and also the designated producer for this undertaking. They held a huge audition in L.A. which literally consisted of hundreds of contestants to find the perfect "Rock Dude" so I joined the crowds of rock artists that were auditioning and somehow won. I hadn't researched it much before the audition and remember asking myself, "I wonder what I won." The answer was forthcoming and I was immediately paired up with a couple of Motown staff writers to begin writing the Kidd Glove album. It was recorded a couple of months later and released with great anticipation and attained great success. As a special bonus this re-issue also includes the first video from that album called "Good Clean Fun." Furthermore included are a few bonus tracks from a film called "The Babysitters". Another bonus song included is the song Paul Sabu wrote about his son titled "Viking Boy." which has never been released before. Track list: 1. Good Clean Fun, 2. Killer Instinct, 3. Street Angel, 4. Spirit Of The Night, 5. Fade To Black, 6. Hellzarockin', 7. Somewhere In A Song, 8. Secrets, 9. Susie Wants To Be A Star Bonus Tracks: 10. Viking Boy, 11. At War With The Weights, 12. The Babysitters 13. Brothers Forever; Bonus Video: "Good Clean Fun". Line-Up: Paul Sabu - Vocals & Guitars; Tommy Amato, Mike Baer - Drums; Jeff Steele, Murril Maglio - Bass; Bobby Sandstorm, Tommy Rude - Keyboards. Viva - Dealers Of The Night (CD + Bonus-DVD) / 1980 was the year when the debut album of German rock band VIVA, „Born To Rock", was released. Four more albums followed with "What The Hell Is Going On" (1981), "Dealers Of The Night" (1982), "Apocalypse" (1984) and "Cream-Cake Box" (1996). After the re-release of the record "VIVA - Apocalypse", Munich based label Yesterrock now presents another 80s highlight. The line-up on the album "Dealers Of The Night" consisted of Barbara Schenker, sister of the Scorpions legends Rudolf and Michael, plus power rock singer Marc Paganini. The re-mastered new edition of this album includes four bonus tracks and a bonus DVD which shows a previously unreleased VIVA live concert recorded by NDR Studio at Radio Bremen's extremely successful TV show "Musikladen". Tracklist CD: 1. Falling In Love, 2. Ten Years After, 3. I Didn't See It Coming, 4. Dealers Of The Night, 5. Some Kind Of Wonderful, 6. Take Me To The Doors, 7. Spend The Night, 8. Looking For An Answer; Bonus Tracks: 9. Life's No Factory; 10. Viva La Viva; 11. It's All Over Now Baby Blue; 12. Innocence. Tracklist DVD: 1. Falling In Love; 2. Little Rock Tonight; 3. I Didn't See It Coming; 4. Take Me To The Doors; 5. Screaming For Your Love; 6. Break Out; 7. Dealers Of The Night; 8. What The Hell Is Going On; 9. Some Kind Of Wonderful, 10. The Bitch. Line-Up: Chris Thow - Vocals; Andy Fach - Guitar; Andreas Kawaldt - Bass; Martin Pietschak - Drums; Michael Lauer - Keyboard. WebLink: www.yesterrock.com.   xxxx JOE LYNN TURNER RETURNS TO BRAZIL: After playing several successful concert dates in South America last year, Joe Lynn Turner (ex-Rainbow/Deep Purple/Yngwie Malmsteen) returns to the continent for more shows this May. Although it is still possible that some other dates may be added, here is the list of confirmed dates as of April 10. Garnoe Productions, the company that is producing the dates, has launched a revised website to promote JLT's Latin American "Blood Red Sky Tour." www.jltlatinamerica.com. 06/05/2010 Bolshoi Pub Rua T-53 - Setor Bueno Goiania, GO - Brasil (62) 3285-6185 http://www.bolshoipub.com.br 07/05/2010 America Rock Club QS 30 - Lote 13 Loja 07 - Taguatinga Sul Brasilia, DF - Brasil (61) 3351-3756 12/05/2010 John Bull Music Hall Rua Engenheiro Rebouças, 1645 Florianopolis, SC - Brasil (41) 3026-5050 http://www.johnbull.com.br 14/05/2010 John Bull Music Hall Rua Engenheiro Rebouças, 1645 Florianopolis, SC - Brasil (41) 3026-5050 http://www.johnbull.com.br 22/05/2010 Experience Rock Bar Rua Tenente Ferreira, 548 Novo Horizonte, SP - Brasil (17) 3542-6185 26/05/2010 Bar Opinião Rua José do Patrocínio, 834 - Cidade Baixa Porto Alegre, RS - Brasil (51) 3211-2838 http://www.opiniao.com.br 28/05/2010 Blackmore Rock Bar Alameda dos Maracatins, 1317 São Paulo, SP - Brasil (11) 5041-9340 http://www.blackmore.com.br 31/07/2010 Foro de Lau Altinopolis, SP - Brasil. EMPIRES OF EDEN UNVEIL NEW ALBUM ARTWORK AND NEW FOOTAGE FROM THE STUDIO ONLINE: Empires of Eden is very proud to announce that US based artist Alex Ruiz has created the new art for the forthcoming album Reborn in Fire. Included is a sneak peak at the recording sessions with the incredible melodic voice of Chris Ninni: www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbdeniPUZGk. The new album from Empires of Eden, Reborn in Fire will feature some of the world's most respected heavy metal voices, including the already announced, Mike Vescera. Reborn in Fire is set for release in June 2010 through 7Hard. Further announcements on the guests will continue with another major announcement next week. Check: www.empiresofeden.com and www.7hart.de for all news and pre-release information.   RENEGADE CREATION FEATURES SOME WELL KNOWN NAMES: Renegade Creation featuring Michael Landau, Robben Ford, Jimmy Haslip (bass), and Gary Novak (drums). Blending together to create a blues-driven sound that not only will satisfy their individual fans but is fresh enough to attract a legion of new fans as well. Delivering both rootsy, blues/rock vocal tunes and fiery instrumentals, the band draws on the unique guitar interplay between guitar giants Robben Ford and Michael Landau who inspire each other to new personal bests. WebLink: www.myspace.com/michaellandau. PETTER ORULLIAN TO SING FOR FIFTH ANGEL AT THE KEEP IT TRUE XIII FESTIVAL: Peter Orullian, best known in heavy metal circles as the voice of Heir Apparent during its highly successful 2006 reunion tour in Europe, will be singing for Fifth Angel at the Keep it True XIII festival in Lauda-Konlgshofen, Germany, on April 24. Orullian steps in for vocalist Tim Branom, who is not able to participate due to throat issues. "It's really unfortunate what happened with Tim, as we've known him for years and he's a great singer and a great guy," said guitarist Ed Archer. "He had trouble talking in the mornings after rehearsals and became very concerned with his voice. Tim came up with the idea of using an alternate singer, but we were hesitant to do that until we realized he was right and things were not getting better. We decided to get another vocalist and quickly found Peter." Orullian, a native of Salt Lake City, Utah, who currently resides in the Seattle area, received classical vocal training from the renowned late maestro David Kyle. In addition to his work with Heir Apparent, Orullian has released a number of CDs with various musicians throughout the year and is a recipient of the Private Eye Best Male Vocalist Award. "Peter is really saving our ass here, as we were considering canceling our appearance," Archer revealed. "The human singing voice is really a tricky animal, and we all hope Tim gets better soon." Video footage of Orullian performing with Heir Apparent and more information on the vocalist can be found at www.orullian.com. Fifth Angel will make its live debut at the Keep it True XIII festival in Lauda-Kanigshofen, Germany, on April 24. For more information on Fifth Angel, visit www.fifthangel.com and www.facebook.com/fifthangelofficial. SWEDEN'S PAIN OF SALVATION GEAR UP FOR THEIR 11TH OFFERING, "ROAD SALT ONE,": In a world governed by increasingly rigid rules and conformist conceptions of art, Sweden's progressive superstars, Pain of Salvation, have created their own niche in the international music scene. Their upcoming album, Road Salt One is the first installment of a double album project which showcases the band's outstanding emotion and intensity while leaning a little more towards modern rock with a colourful '70s flare. Since the band's inception in 1984 (originally called "Reality" then renamed "Pain of Salvation" in 1991), frontman Daniel Gildenlöw has followed his own musical path mixing elements of metal, pop, funk, disco, blues, goth, folk, Arabian and Asian influences and of course, Prog. "Skills and complexity should be part of the machinery, not the functionality or design," says the band's frontman Daniel Gildenlöw, "so I try to hide it away where the engine is supposed to be ­ under the hood of a machine built mainly to process ideas and emotions." *Pain of Salvation's* 2009 EP release, /Linoleum/ was a preview of the new double album concept. The band supported its release with a string of headlining shows throughout Europe and Russia as well as supporting Dream Theater in Australia. Pain of Salvation also was featured on Sweden's "Melodifestivalen" which is a national European song competition. The TV show put the band in the living rooms of millions of European viewers. Although they didn't win the competition, the exposure helped catapult the digital version of their song "Road Salt" to #12 on the Swedish charts. Road Salt One not only includes the aforementioned title track, it also includes the previous EP single/title track, "Linoleum," (which was accompanied by a great energetic video). Other highlights include the captivating opening track, "No Way," the awe-inspiring, "Sisters" (which will be the second single) and the acute "Where It Hurts" (which will also be put in video form). "'Road Salt One' is twelve tracks of sweaty gravel, asphalt butterflies, untrodden paths and brave decisions," says Pain of Salvation mastermind Daniel Gildenlöw. "It will not beg for your liking, it will not make excuses, it will not carry you safely across the dangerous waters. If you don't pick up its pace it will leave you stranded at the curb of the road. Yes, 'Road Salt One' might indeed be a harsh lover, but if you have the guts to follow it whole-heartedly and dare to surrender to its voice, it will take you places you need to visit." Frontman Daniel Gildenlöw will be in the US and Canada touring with the Prog supergroup, Transatlantic, in April. If you'd like to speak to him face to face or by phone, please get in touch with Eric Corbin at Screaming Crow PR as soon as possible. Here are the dates… Transatlantic US dates: 4/17 ­ The Downey Theater in Downey, CA 4/18 ­ The Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, CA 4/20 ­ Park West in Chicago, IL 4/21 ­ Metropolis in Montreal, Quebec 4/23 ­ The Blender Theater at Gramercy in New York, NY 4/24 ­ The Theater of the Living Arts in Philadelphia, PA WebLinks: www.insideout.de / www.painofsalvation.com.

 

 

Friday, April 09, 2010

ESCAPE STEP INTO THE WILD SIDE: Escape Music is pleased to present the May 21 European release of Wild Side's Speed Devil album. Wild Side is: Joachim Berntsen - Vocals, Tom Grana - Guitars, Jon Aarseth - Guitars, Stian Stensrud - Bass, Ronni Arntzen - Drums. Track Listing: 1- Paranoia Circus, 2-Live Forever, 3-Mine Tonight, 4-Play With Me, 5-Need To Deliver, 6-Wild One, 7-Eagle, 8-Won't Let U Go, 9-Devil In Disguise, 10-Always Be Me, 11-Love For You, 12-Speed Devil. Here is an exclusive a full track - download Live Forever. Biography: The Norwegian band Wild Side started out in late 2005. Formed by drummer Ronni Arntzen and ex-Pagan's Mind guitarist Thorstein Aaby. To complete the line-up, vocalist Paul Martin and bass player Johnny Myren was hired. Myren did not stay in the band for long, and in came a much more competent bassist, Stian Stensrud. In the beginning the band was mainly playing cover tunes, but a couple of original tracks also surfaced. Early 2007 a two track demo featuring Nite Show and Calling Past was recorded. Shortly thereafter Aaby's health got worse, so the band decided to get a stand-in guitarist. Tom Grana, and old friend of Stensrud joined the ranks. This worked out really well, so the plan was to go for a twin guitars attack when Aaby got back. Unfortunately that never happened, cause on July 24th 2007 Thorstein Aaby died of cancer. In November of 2007 the band entered Ronni Le Tekrö's (TNT's legendary guitarist) Studio Studio to record their debut album, Indication. But some problems followed, and the album wasn't released until October of 2008, then only in Scandinavia. Enter 2009 and things looked promising for the band; WildSide recruited a second guitarist, the highly skilled youngster Jon Aarseth, adding an extra dimension to both studio and live performances of the band. But shortly after singer Paul Martin decided to quit due to personal reasons. But WildSide turned the change into something good, and in came the enthusiastic Joachim Berntsen. After some very well received gigs the band went into the studio again to record their second album Speed Devil. This time in Klyve Lydstudio in Skien, Norway. The production was done by the band themselves, while the mixing was done by King Diamond guitarist Andy LaRoque at his Sonic Train Studios in Sweden...Speed Devil marked a huge step in the right direction. So watch out, folks!   xx RUSH JUMP INTO THEIR OWN TIME MACHINE: Press Release / (Toronto – Thursday, April 8th 2010) - Rush – Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart – is without question one of the most inventive and compelling groups in rock history, equally famed for both its virtuoso musicianship and provocative songwriting. Announced today, The Time Machine Tour is an evening with Rush, where they will perform their classics, give a taste of the future – and for the first time ever – feature the Moving Pictures album live in its entirety. The band is currently working on their 20th studio album with producer Nick Raskulinecz (co-producer from 2007's Snakes & Arrows) and in addition to their classics plan to showcase a few new tunes live this summer. "We were off for a year and a half, and now it's just pouring. Everything is totally crazy and there's not a minute left in the day. We've got these half-dozen songs, and we'll probably go in the studio and work on a couple of them and see how it goes, perhaps release something – and I say perhaps – and then we plan on being on the road," says guitarist, www.kdcproductions.co.uk. This summer's Live Nation promoted tour will visit approximately 40 cities throughout North America beginning June 29th in Albuquerque, NM and finishing October 2nd in West Palm Beach, FL with stops along the way in Boston, Chicago, Denver, Dallas, Holmdel, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Toronto, Washington, and more along the way (complete tour itinerary follows). Rush has sold more than 40 million records worldwide and garnered untold legions of devoted and admiring fans. According to the RIAA, Rush's sales statistics place RUSH third after The Beatles and The Rolling Stones for the most consecutive gold or platinum studio albums by a rock band. Released in 1981, Moving Pictures was their most successful album, certified 4x Platinum and features some of Rush's most well known songs and perennial radio favourites Tom Sawyer, Limelight and the Grammy-nominated instrumental YYZ. "Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage" a documentary created by filmmakers Scot McFadyen & Sam Dunn (whose filmography also includes: "Iron Maiden; Flight 666,' "Metal, A Headbangers Journey" and "Global Metal") will premiere at New York's Tribeca Film Festival on April 24th followed by the Canadian premiere at Toronto's Hot Docs festival on April 29th. The band was also recently showcased in the comedy "I Love You Man" where they play themselves in a concert scene featuring actors Paul Rudd and Jason Segal as ubra-fans, a performance which has exposed the band to a whole new generation. Inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame this past March alongside Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, and the Guess Who, Rush has also been nominated for multiple Grammy awards and won a number of Juno Awards. They were inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1994 and bestowed the Order of Canada in 1997. Consistently celebrated and respected worldwide, Rush is the most successful Canadian rock band of all time and they remain one of the biggest grossing arena rock bands ever. Tickets for Rush Time Machine Tour will go on sale beginning April 16th in San Francisco, Uncasville, Saratoga Springs, Denver, Chicago, Wantagh, Seattle and Holmdel at Livenation.com. Tickets for performances in Milwaukee, Sarnia and Syracuse go on sale April 17th, check local listings for ticket information. Citi card members will have access to pre-sale tickets through Citi's Private Pass® Program beginning April 13th in select markets. For complete presale details visit www.citiprivatepass.com. For complete tour and ticket information, visit: www.rush.com & www.livenation.com.   AUDIOVISION: "INVITATION" VIDEO POSTED ONLINE: The Swedish melodic metal band Audiovision have released their video for the track Invitation online. The track comes off their up-coming album Focus which will be released in Europe and North America on April 23rd through Ulterium Records. The video is directed by Ronny Hemlin [Scar Symmetry, Steel Attack]. Click here to check out the video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=tHP9GXcb8BA. For more information on Audiovision: www.myspace.com/audiovisionsweden. MELODIC BRIEFS: Giant's Promise Land album is getting a Japanese release May 26 with the bonus track: Our Love (Acoustic Version). Check out this interview Gus Griesinger did with Cinderella front man Tom Keifer: www.backstageaxxess.com/index.php/interviews/238-tomkeiferinterview. A brand new radio show, "The 80's Rocked" features Harry James and Chris Childs from Thunder and Danny Vaughn of Tyketto and others. Full info, including music and video can be found at: www.kdcproductions.co.uk. Dutch rockers Sleeze Beez will reunite. Their first gig will be supporting Aerosmith (together with Steel Panther) June 23, Goffertpark, Nijmegen (Holland). Vains of Jenna guitarist Nicki Kin talks about the band's new singer Jesse Forte at: www.sleazeroxx.com/interviews/nickikin.shtml. Other interviews can be found here: Matthias Jabs - Scorpions www.rockmusicstar.com/scorpions2010 and Todd Kerns, bass player for Slash - www.rockmusicstar.com/toddkerns. Kiss will announce a US tour starting in July in a few weeks. Producer Obie O'brien has confirmed that he is "just finishing up a project that has live recordings from 1985 thru 2010 from small theaters to huge outdoor stadiums" for Bon Jovi. Let's hope it is better than the last live compilation One Live Night. OZZY SONG, "LET ME HEAR YOU SCREAM," WORLD PREMIERE DURING APRIL 14 "CSI: NY": Ozzy Osbourne's new song, "Let Me Hear You Scream," from his upcoming Epic Records album, Scream will have its world premiere during an episode of CSI: NY, to be broadcast Wednesday, April 14 (10:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Immediately following the episode the single Let Me Hear You Scream will be serviced to Canadian rock radio outlets nationally. In the episode, "Redemption," a death row inmate's (guest star Harold Perrineau, "Lost") final request brings Dr. Hawkes (series regular Hill Harper) to a Pennsylvania prison and face-to-face with a tragic incident that he has kept secret for many years, just as a prison riot erupts and traps Hawkes inside. The story was written by executive producer Peter M. Lenkov, with the teleplay by Lenkov and Bill Haynes. "We were looking for something high energy and irreverent to sell the madness of a prison riot," said executive producer and episode writer Peter M. Lenkov. "We immediately responded to the new Osbourne tune. The song exceeded our expectations and brought exactly the right tone to the episode." "When I heard they were going to use Let Me Hear You Scream for a prison riot scene, I thought, Well, now that's something I know about, says Ozzy, who spent time in prison in the U.K. for burglary before his 18th birthday. Ozzy Osbourne's career has spanned four decades and his music is as relevant today as ever. The multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer has sold over 100 million albums worldwide – 50 million with Black Sabbath and as many as a solo artist. In 2003, he was honored with a star on Hollywood Boulevard's "Walk of Fame." Osbourne is not only a legend and an icon, but is a pioneer in his genre of music. CSI: NY, a crime drama inspired by the drama series "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," is about forensic investigators who use high-tech science to follow the evidence and solve crimes in the Big Apple. Click on the link below to view the trailer for the CSI NY episode Redemptio: www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJlnbCjtu9I. VOCALIST LISA MCCLOWRY TEAMS WITH GRAMMY WINNER JIM PETERIK: In collaboration with mentor/producer Jim Peterik (Grammy award winner, Oscar nominee for "Eye Of The Tiger," writer of "The Search Is Over," "Hold On Loosely," "Vehicle" and many more), vocalist Lisa McClowry will release Time Signatures in June 2010 under the NuGroove/Worldstage Int'l label and is distributed by Red/Sony. The expert craftsmanship of Peterik lends itself throughout the album to include the blistering "Born Twice," the smoldering heat of "Waiting for You" and the joyous self-empowerment anthem of "Powerful Day." "Writing with Jim has brought the best out in my lyrics and melodies. The songs reflect the way I look at life, positive messages with an edge. My vocal approach is to communicate the emotion of the song simple as that," said McClowry. How the listeners interpret the music is equally important to this songbird. "My hope is that people will see themselves in my music...see that there's more out there...uncover the truth in their soul," she said. Known professionally as a "singer's singer," Lisa harnesses the essence of the emotional moment of each song throughout "Time Signatures" with powerful vocals that will leave you breathless. Her incredible artistic range and fresh image renders an overall superior artist package that resides where pop meets soul and musical genres merge. It is a place where age categories and demographics fade away until all that remains is the pure music a Time Signature for the evolution of sound. "We are very excited about this new release. Lisa has all the elements to be the next breakthrough artist of 2010," said David Chackler, President/CEO of NuGroove Records. Sample the music: Time Signatures - www.thenugroove.com/lisamcclowry/Track01_snip.mp3 / Waiting for You - www.thenugroove.com/lisamcclowry/Track02_snip.mp3 / Born Twice - thenugroove.com/lisamcclowry03_snip.mp3. For more information and concert updates, please visit www.lisamcclowry.com. BO BICE RETURNS WITH NEW ALBUM 3: Nashville, TN --- (April 8, 2010) – American Idol alum Bo Bice will release his third album, aptly titled 3, on May 18th (Saguaro Road Records in association with Bo's own Sugar Money Records). Soulful southern blues and rock, gospel-like choruses, Americana and a touch of country, the new album is much like Bice himself; irresistibly likeable, filled with easygoing charm and undeniable talent. "I feel the new CD, 3, is my strongest to date," says Bo, "filled with a plethora of sounds that show people who the real Bo Bice is." "There's something for everyone; country, soul, rock & roll...it's like your favorite pair of jeans; it just feels right." "Bo Bice is an enormously talented singer, songwriter and musician that has forged incredible relationships with the fans," adds Mike Jason, Senior VP of Audio and Video Retail at Saguaro Road Records, home to Patty Loveless, the Blind Boys of Alabama, Tanya Tucker and Lonestar. "We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with him for the release of 3." On 3, Bo wrote half of the songs himself and collaborated with other writers on the remainder, playing both acoustic and electric guitar during the recording sessions in his adopted hometown of Nashville. He was joined by Black Crowes drummer Steve Gorman and keyboardist AJ Croce, whose father Jim has long been one of Bo's greatest songwriting influences. Bo also produced five of the album's songs, with an additional six co-produced with D. Scott Miller. Bice's Southern sensibility, earthy vocals and decidedly non-pop performances won over a nation of fans during the fourth season of American Idol, where he landed as the runner-up to Carrie Underwood. His first single, "Inside Your Heaven," reached #1 on the pop chart when it was released in 2005 and was certified gold after it became the second-highest debuting song of the year. His album (The Real Thing) debuted at #4 shortly afterward and was also certified gold, his 2007 follow-up (See The Light) was ranked #1 by VH-1, and he later sung lead on Santana's single "Brown Skinned Girl" (certified gold). 3 is Bice's third album and first for Saguaro Road Records. About Saguaro Road Records and Direct Holdings: Saguaro Road is an imprint launched by Direct Holdings Americas Inc, the company that markets and sells audio and video entertainment products under the Time Life brand, using it under license from Time Warner Inc. The label focuses on artists that have a uniquely American roots oriented sound. Time Life and the Time Life logo are registered trademarks of Time Warner Inc. and affiliated companies, used under license by Direct Holdings Americas Inc., which is not affiliated with Time Warner Inc. or Time Inc. Headquartered in Fairfax VA, Direct Holdings Americas Inc.'s history began in 1961 as a direct marketing division of Time Incorporated specializing in music and books. The business has been operated as a separate company since the mid-1970s when it relocated to Virginia, and has since grown to become one of the world's largest direct marketers of audio and video products throughout North America, Europe and Australia. The Company has set the standard in the direct response industry by pioneering direct marketing techniques and building one of the most trusted and recognized brands in commerce. The Company now also sells its products through major traditional and non-traditional retailers around the world as well as via the Internet. The Company was sold in 2003 to private investors. Saguaro Road Records is a trademark of Direct Holdings Americas Inc. AUSSIE ROCKERS POWDERFINGER CALL IT A DAY: Powderfinger have confirmed one of rock's worst kept secrets - they will be disbanding later this year, after completing one final tour. The Brisbane rockers announced at a press conference this morning the details of the tour - their first major national tour for three years - together with the news that this tour will be, as widely predicted, their last as a group. The tour will include dates in 21 cities across Australia, kicking off in early September, the Herald Sun reports. However, it will definitely be their last. "We have decided, after much deliberation and agonising, that after this final tour we will call it a day," was the wording of a carefully prepared statement. "With the completion of our last album, Golden Rule, we feel that we have said all that we want to say as a musical group." The band affirmed that they thought this album had been their best work, and wanted to finish off with "music they all believed in, and hopefully the best tour to date". On their tour, the band will be supported by fellow circuit veterans, Jet. Tickets for the tour will go on sale on Friday 30th April. Powderfinger have sold more than 2.5million albums in Australia, seen seven studio albums go to the top of the ARIA Album chart, won 16 ARIA Awards - including an unprecedented back-to-back three awards for Album of the Year - in a career as a band lasting nearly two decades. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated today with a host of classic live shows and one set of artist demos. They are: - Van Halen - 1976, Golden West Ballroom - Andy Taylor Band - 1987, Tokyo, Japan - Heart - Portland Coliseum, Portland, OR, USA 1987 - Little Angels - London, UK, 1991 - Giant - 1990, Holmdel, NJ, USA (Audience Recording) and Blue Murder - Debut Demos (5 Tracks) MR-X will be cleaned out and updated with a host of new and exclusive downloads in the next week or so. I've been cleaned out of rarities that I can share, so the live shows above should tide folks over. Get in now for any recent updates over the past month or two and access to last year's downloads in one special folder. MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, April 08, 2010

DAY SIX SIGN TO LION MUSIC & OTHER ARTIST UPDATES: Lion Music are delighted to have signed Dutch progressive rock/metal band Day Six for their new album The Grand Design to the labels roster. Since forming in 2002, Day Six have become a mainstay on the live Dutch music scene and won two major competitions in the Netherlands: the Metal Battle and the Aardschok Metal Bash. As a result Day Six have grown to be one of the most well known progressive metal bands in the Netherlands and with the worldwide release of The Grand Design, Lion Music aim to introduce the band to a wider audience. With a sound that combines elements from across progressive music's history, the band have come up with a unique take on the genre which is equal parts dark and light making great use of dynamics and textures. Comparisons could be made between a fusion of Pink Floyd, Rush and Opeth where colossal guitar riffs collide and intertwine with synthesized textures for a truly mesmerizing effect. The bands live show is also winning rave reviews with the four piece of Robbie van Stiphout (Guitars/Vocals), Nick Verstappen (Bass), Dolf van Heugten (Synthesizers) and Daan Liebregts (Drums) wowing audiences with their spectacular live show. Day Six – The Grand Design comprises of 9 tracks and clocks in at over 70 minutes and it set for release on Lion Music on June 18th 2010. A preview sampler of the album can be heard at the bands official websites www.day-six.com and myspace.com/daysixweb. Full album information to follow soon.   xx A number of studio updates in this week... Seventh Wonder are currently in their new home studio (Studio Wonderland) recording the music and vocals for what will be the follow up the universally praised Mercy Falls album. The band are still deciding where to mix the album after the recording has been completed. More information on this highly anticipated release to come soon. Sun Caged are in the process of mixing their third album which has the working title The Lotus Effect (TBC) which will mark their first effort with new bassist Daniel Kohn. Some titles of new songs include "Shades Of Hades", "Driftwood", "All But Gone", "Tip-Toe the Fault Line", "On Again / Off Again", "Lotus", "Seamripper & The Blanket Statement". Guitarist Marcel Coenen has reported in the following. Expect an album with some new influences, one song has a typically salsa groove throughout the song, an other song has a real blast beat in it, plus we also recorded a really long epic song, divided into seven parts (total length about 24 minutes) which will close the album. Status Minor are also in the process of finishing up the recording of their second album Ouroboros which is slated for a September 2010 release. To follow on the from the drum and bass teaser studio videos the band have released a couple of clips which focus on guitars and keyboards. Check out the new videos at www.youtube.com/user/Julukki. Further studio updates continue to come in from keyboard virtuoso Mistheria who is piecing together his all star new neo-classical progressive opus Dragons Fire. To follow on from the news that drummer John Macaluso (Ark, Union Radio) has completed all his drum parts we can now report that John West (ex Royal Hunt, Artension) is recording his vocals and has checked in with the following on Mistheria's website - "After meeting Mistheria and playing live together in Croatia with Emir Hot, I knew someday we would make music together. He asked me to write and sing on his new solo album, and I was very excited. Now, we are in the midst of the recordings and I must say this is some of the absolute best music I have ever made to date!" Also on the vocal side of proceedings Lance King (Balance Of Power) has finished tracking vocals for the track Two Of Us and commented The song is both melodic and powerful, full of harmonisations, definitely a killer song!. Rob Rock (Impellitteri, Rage Of Creation) enters the studio next week to record vocals on Lies and Deception and Mark Boals (Royal Hunt, Ring Of Fire, ex Malmsteen) is recording vocals for the track Metal Opera 82 which Mistheria describes as a mix between Metal and astonishing Tenor vocals. Mistheria also reports that Titta Tani (Astra) did an awesome job on Fire & Flames and the ballad A Beautiful Dream. In addition Titta is going to record voc als for the title track duet with John West. On the guitar side of the album George Bellas (solo, Ring Of Fire, Mogg/Way) has already recorded rhythm and lead guitar for 4 songs. Roger Staffelbach (Artension, Angel Of Eden) enters the studio next week to record his parts. Emir Hot (solo) has also already recorded his guitar solo on the song Fire & Flames and Neil Zaza will record next week his tracks for Now it's never. Bassist Dino Fiorenza has recorded his parts for 5 songs and 4 more to do. Track titles for the album (in no particular order) are: Fire & Flames, Two Of Us, Chopin Fantasie, The Power Of One, Killing The Pain, Dragon Fire, The Beast, A Beautiful Dream, Metal Opera 82, Now it's never and Lies and Deception. Mistheria – Dragon's Fire is currently slated for a Autumn 2010 release (subject to change). STEVE MILLER RETURNS: New York, NY: Roadrunner/Loud & Proud Records is pleased to announce a worldwide partnership with American rock 'n' roll pioneers, The Steve Miller Band and Miller's new imprint Space Cowboy Records. Recorded at film producer George Lucas' infamous studios at Skywalker Ranch, Bingo! is the band's first studio album in 17 years. A true return to Miller's roots, Bingo! echoes his early years in the Chicago music scene and features carefully chosen and crafted tracks performed in distinctive Steve Miller Band fashion. "With the continuing evolution of the music industry and all the new exciting opportunities that are available, I feel this is a perfect time to start a new record company and establish new innovative partnerships. I am looking forward to a long relationship with Roadrunner / Loud & Proud" says Miller of the new endeavor. Early reaction from fans and industry insiders are comparing the album to Miller's 1968 masterpiece Sailor. Bingo!, will be the first of two albums that were recorded together as a complete body of work, the second of which will be offered next year via the new label partnership. "After many years of discussion and sharing ideas, the time has finally arrived for Loud & Proud and Steve Miller to work together," commented Loud & Proud President Tom Lipsky. "We are proud to be Steve's global label partner and excited to be involved with this landmark project." The Steve Miller Band is one of the biggest selling recording, touring and catalog artists of all time, having sold more than 50 million albums worldwide throughout its career. SMB's Greatest Hits 74-78 compilation reached prestigious Diamond Award certification with sales of more than 13 million units sold. Roadrunner Records President Jonas Nachsin comments "Loud & Proud has been gaining serious momentum in the past few months and now boasts a substantial roster with the addition of the incredible Steve Miller Band. Roadrunner is thrilled to be marketing an artist of Steve's legendary status along with our own diverse rock roster." Bingo! was co-produced by Andy Johns (Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, Van Halen), with artwork designed by the legendary Storm Thorgerson. These recordings feature longtime Steve Miller Band member Norton Buffalo, who sadly passed away in 2009. BON JOVI 2010 SET LIST: Bon Jovi's set list from a recent show (March 17 in Detroit): 1. Blood on Blood 2. We Weren't Born to Follow 3. Bad Name 4. Thorn in My Side 5. Born to Be My Baby 6. Lost Highway 7. When We Were Beautiful 8. Superman Tonight 9. We Got It Going On 10a. Bad Medicine 10b. Roadhouse Blues 10c. Bad Medicine Reprise 11. It's My Life 12. Homebound Train (Richie lead vocal) / Circle stage set / 13. Hallelujah (acoustic) 14. Diamond Ring 15. I'll Be There For You 16. Something for the Pain (acoustic) 17. Someday I'll Be Saturday Night (acoustic) / Return to main stage / 18. Bullet 19. Work for the Working Man 20. Who Says You Can't Go Home 21. Love's the Only Rule / Encore / 22. Runaway 23. I Love This Town 24. Wanted Dead or Alive (w/Kid Rock) 25. Livin on a Prayer. SHREDGUY RECORDS NEWS: Shredguy Records will be releasing the debut CD from Michael Abdow titled "Native Alien". Dubbed the "melodic shred master" by Shredguy Records president Mike McDowell, Abdow has been sharpening his skills with the heavy metal band Frozen, and is now ready to be introduced to the guitar community as one of it's most melodic players. This release also features the excellent drumming of MI-grad Mike Lamagna and Colin Conway of Frozen. All live drums on this release. The CD will be out on April 27th. Get ready for Michael Abdow! Preorders are being taken at www.myspace.com/shredguyrecords.   IAN PARRY APPEARING ON FORTHCOMING CRYSTAL TEARS CD ALBUM: Crystal Tears is very proud to announce Ian Parry as the lead vocalist on the upcoming album Generation X. Ian's incredible voice has appeared on albums with Elegy and Ayreon, Vengeance, André Andersen. The new Crystal Tears album is a cleverly written assortment of metal and rock classics revolving around various lyrical topics and themes, a boiling pot of ideas ranging from reality to fiction. The songs are structured around drummer and founding member Chrisafis Tantanozis; a hybrid of melodic metal music with heavy detuned guitars, speed double bass-drums and power hard rock anthems sealed together by an array of modernized melodic power vocals from a vocalist with a huge range and a strong personality differing from all power metal singers around, Ian Parry. Crystal Tears have set their horizons towards the international stage working under the full guidance of metal producer/singer R. D. Liapakis (Mystic Prophecy), who was the mastermind for delivering an album with a sound of their own. With a great cover artwork & booklet design by: Meran "Darkmouth" Karanitant (Six Feet Under, Hatebreed, Leave's Eyes, Sodom etc.) From label boss Axel W.: "Being such a huge fan of Ians's voice, I'm proud to release this strong melodic metal anthem in 2010!" Sample song Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxOuJNCV9qc. Check www.myspace.com/crystaltearsgr and www.7hart.de for all news and pre-release information.   H.E.A.T - TURN UP THE H.E.A.T - UK TOUR 2010: H.E.A.T. UK Tour Dates as follows: Wed 19th May JBs Dudley www.jbsdudley.co.uk / www.seetickets.com / 01384 253597 / 0870 2643333 Thu 20th May Corporation Sheffield www.corporation.org.uk / www.seetickets.com / 0114 276 0206 / 0870 2643333 Fri 21st May TBC. Sat 22nd May Rock City Nottingham www.rock-city.co.uk / www.alt-tickets.co.uk / 08713 100 100 / 0870 2643333 Sun 23rd May The Gaff London www.thegaffclub.com / www.wegottickets.com / 0207 6071555 MELODIC BRIEFS: Check out Cheap Trick's Official YouTube page: www.youtube.com/user/cheaptrick. Two full Pro-Shot live shows from recent weeks are online to view! Another exclusive from the Wales based GTFM Rock Show website as host Andy Fox catches up with Winger guitarist Reb Beach on the Bristol date of band's recent UK Tour. Interview can be downloaded from: gtfmrockshow.wordpress.com. RockEyez senior writer Mark Balogh talks with On The Rise Terje Eide: www.rockeyez.com/interviews/int-2010-03-mb-terje-eide-on-the-rise.html. ROCKUNITED.COM FOCUS ON CLASSIC ALBUMS: RockUnited.com has recently started up a new interview series: "Just For The Record" is a new concept: we're concentrating on one 70's, 80's or early 90's album at a time, and discuss it in full detail with one of the band members. It could be some "obscure" minor record label release that simply didn't get the attention it so rightly deserved the first time around. It could also be a what you would call a "classic" album or sort of a best-seller. They all have one thing in common though. They all ROCK and they all have at least one classy enough band member to answer our q's. The first 10 episodes are up and running. King Kobra: "Thrill Of A Lifetime" (interview with David Michael-Philips). Signal: "Loud & Clear" (Interview with: Marcie Free). Unruly Child: "Unruly Child" (Interview with: Guy Allison). Eyes "Eyes" (Interview with: Jeff Scott Soto). Robbie Dupree "Robbie Dupree" (Interview with: Robbie Dupree). Deliverance "Deliverance" (Interview with: Jimmy P Brown II). Guardian "First Sight" (Interview with: David Bach). Bangalore Choir "On Target" (Interview with: David Reece). Danger Danger "Danger Danger" (Interview with: Ted Poley). Sweet Comfort Band "Perfect Timing" (Interview with: Randy Thomas). Comments, requests, bands/artists who'd like to sign up to face the 'Just' questions. Email: urban "at" rockunited.com (simply replace "at" with your normal @). WebLink: www.rockunited.com. LIZZY BORDEN ANNOUNCING HEADLINING SHOWS AND FESTIVAL APPEARANCES: Lizzy Borden have been confirmed for Wacken Open Air, Alcatraz Metal Festival, Leyendas del Rock festival, Elsrock Festivals which are set to take place between August 6 and August 28. Select US shows have been added, with more to come, so please check www.lizzyborden.com. The schedule is shaping up as follows: April 17 - San Antonio, TX - Backstage Live May 20 - Berlin, NH - The White Mountain Chalet May 21 - Clifton, NJ - Dingbatz May 22 - Baltimore, MD - Quarter @ Bourbon Street Ballroom May 28 - Pittsburg, PA - Hard Rock Cafe August 6 - Wacken, Germany - Wacken Open Air August 7 - Brielpoort/Deinze, Belgium - Alcatraz Metal Festival August 13 - San Javier, Spain - Leyendas del Rock festival August 28 - Rijssen, Holland, Elsrock Festival ONLINE HARD ROCK RADIO: KDKT out of Bismarck, North Dakota offers a great mix of Legendary Rockin Roll that's hosted by some legendary former Z-Rock DJ's from the late 80's and early 90's - Madd Maxx Hammer, Wild Bill Scott, The Tiptonizer (Jason Lee Tipton) and Rockin' Ron Simon add some new music to the mix almost every day. Tune in to hear the Legends Of Rock at www.kdkt.us. Windows Media users can click on: "play", "lyrics, captions and subtitles" and then "on if available". This will bring up the songs and artists being played at the bottom of the screen. It may take a few seconds or until the next song plays, but it should work if you're using WMP as your default media player. MESSIAH RE-RELEASES SHCEDULED: Messiah from Detroit is working hard on re-releasing their "Final Warning" album and "Going Insane" EP on Retroactive Records in USA. The band was legendary among the Hard Rock and Metalheads in Detroit but never really could get a bigger deal or better distribution for their releases. Therefore both mentioned releases are two of the all time top Metal rarities. Think you will like the sound of the band back in the old days some people would have called Metal but nowadays I would call it Hard Rock with Power Rock and Metal elements. WebLink: www.messiah-the-final-warning.com. TRIBUTE TO DAVE LEPARD: NEW BANDS AND TRACK LIST UNVEILED: New artists to take part to "Reborn In Sleaze: A Tribute To Dave Lepard" have been revealed. Blackrain (www.myspace.com/blackfuckinrain), Sister (www.myspace.com/sisteronline) and Midnight Cowboys (www.myspace.com/midnightcowboys) have been added to the project. The cd pays tribute to singer David Hellman (a.k.a. Dave Lepard), who committed suicide in January 2006 at the age of 25. The tribute album will be released in January 2011. "Reborn In Sleaze: A Tribute To Dave Lepard" track listing: Knokk 'Em Down - Killer Klown, Riot In Everyone - Johnny Burning, Queen Obscene / 69 Shots - Skull Daze, Breakin' The Chainz - Peep Show, Needle In Your Eye - Pretty Wild, Tikket - Sex Slaves, Out Of Line - Cyanide 4, It's A Miracle - Bulletrain, Straight Outta Hell - Sister, Back On Trakk - Midnight Cowboys, Lost Horizons - Blackrain (bonus track). A new promotional teaser for the upcoming debut album from Skull Daze can be viewed here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=-X6DXWWaLhs. Entitled simply "Skull Daze", the CD will be released on may 14th, 2010 via Street Symphonies Records. WebLinks: www.streetsymphonies.com / www.myspace.com/streetsymphonies. TYRANT PREVIEW NEW TRACK: Tasmanian based, Australian hard rock band Tyrant - have just uploaded another new song titled, 'Fire In The Sky' - to the bands' MySpace page. The new song is the third track, from the current recording sessions for the bands' up-coming CD with two other tunes, 'Running From The Law' and 'Defenders Of The Faith' – also being uploaded for listening/download. All songs are in 'demo' form and will appear on the new CD. The new CD is to be titled, "Save The Devil" and is being recorded at Izaneer Studios in Tasmania, under the watchful ears of producer, Brett Collidge – who has previously worked with Tyrant vocalist, Neil Steel on a side project, Roadkill - who's debut CD, "God Bless America" being released in 2007. (www.myspace.com/roadkillaus) It is now 16 months from frontman Neil Steel's - 'head on' car accident that brought recording, to a screaming halt. Luckily, Steel escaped any major injuries, having almost fully recovered after knee surgery last year. Recording re-commenced earlier this year with the CD to be finished around July with an October/November release date. Steel says: "Take a listen to the new songs and you can hear – a more traditional metal flavour that shows a hungry beast, a band that means business with Tyrant sounding like it's got a after burner up it's ass! The new CD will surprise many people, when it's finished!"

 

 

Wednesday, April 07, 2010

My apologies for the site outage in recent days. I had computer issues over the Easter break and had to wait to get them corrected. Back to business as normal… I hope everyone had a happy and safe Easter. FRONTIERS RECORDS ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF Y&T FIRST STUDIO ALBUM IN 13 YEARS: Y&T, featuring original members Dave Meniketti (vocals and lead guitars) and Phil Kennemore (bass), along with longtime members John Nymann (guitar) and Mike Vanderhule (drums) have recorded their first studio album in 13 years, aptly titled Facemelter to be released in Europe on May 21 on Frontiers Records. With a discography of 18 albums and three greatest hits collections, Y&T has sold over four million albums since their 1974 inception. The band has toured with numerous Rock icons including Ozzy Osbourne, AC/DC, Aerosmith, and Mötley Crüe, receiving constant and extensive airplay with hits such as Forever, Rescue Me, Mean Streak, and Summertime Girls. Y&T songs have been featured in a multitude of movies and television shows, including Real Genius, Out of Bounds, Baywatch, and Hunter. After five US top 100 albums, songs that tipped into the 40s, two Bammie Awards, and many international television appearances, Y&T's hits are still played nowadays on classic rock radio stations everywhere. Y&T's high-energy music still captivates legions of fans around the globe, proving Y&T's music timeless. As the title indicates, Facemelter—the anticipated new recording—is a hard rockin', song-oriented album that lives up to its name: it captures the band's raw energy and tightness that they've become known for. Featuring heavy grooves, powerful guitars, and strong melodies, the band shows their versatility, delivering a range of high-energy rockers, mid-tempo head-bangers, modern rock grooves, majestic ballads, and signature Y&T rock anthems. To mark the return, the band engaged John Taylor Dismukes—the same artist who designed covers for Y&T's classic albums "Mean Streak," "Black Tiger" and "In Rock We Trust"—to create the amazing art of the new Facemelter. "What a great feeling to dive back into making new Y&T music," states Dave Meniketti. "After being away from it for this long, the anticipation of writing a new CD worth of material was, at first, a bit scary, but as soon as we started up I was happy to find how natural it was to get right back in it again. I think we're going to have to keep this up, because musically and emotionally, we still have a lot to say!" "It's ridiculous that we waited so long to make a new record," states Phil Kennemore. "In creating new music for Facemelter, I rediscovered the most important thing for any artist, and that is to continue creating . . . it feeds my soul. My hope for Facemelter is that people might just find a few new favorite Y&T songs." "We recorded together to capture as much of a live feel as possible which I feel is the strong point of the band," adds Mike Vanderhule, while according to John Nymann, "The chemistry we have between us makes it so easy to develop ideas. Now that we are ignited with new material, I can't wait to bring it to the stage." Face-melting is a term that has been with Y&T since the mid-'70s, when a rabid fan ran backstage and told the band, "you melted my face," which inspired the group's first publishing company: "Facemelting Music." If you haven't yet taken Y&T's new album for a ride, grab your leathers, strap yourself in, and prepare to have your face melted. "Facemelter" includes the following tracks: Prelude, On With The Show; One Life; Shine On; Wild Child; I Want Your Money; I'm Coming Home, If You Want Me; Hot Shot; How Long; Gonna Go Blind; Don't Bring me Down; Blind Patriot; Losing My Mind* / * Bonus track included on the first pressing in digipak. Confirmed Summer Tour Dates in Europe: June 10 ~ Solvesborg, Sweden - Sweden Rock Festival June 12 ~ Donington, UK - Download Festival June 15 ~ Köln, Germany - Underground Cologne June 16 ~ Zwolle, Netherlands - Hedon Podium June 17 ~ Dordrecht, Netherlands - Bibelot June 19 ~ Clisson, France - Hellfest + don't forget the guys headlining Day 1 at MelodicRockFest in Chicago, IL May 1 & 2 - www.melodicrockfest.com. WebLinks: www.YandTRocks.com / www.myspace.com/yandtrocks / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx FATE'S 25th ANNIVERSARY RELEASE: Danish hard rock outfit Fate has a brand new compilation out now, their first ever entitled 25 Years – The Best Of Fate 1985-2010. It consists of 17 songs from the bands previous 5 albums, and with 2 new songs to introduce new singer Dagfinn Joensen to the Fate followers (last 2 tracks). Track Listing: 01 Love on the Rox (88 Version), 02 Downtown Toy, 03 Fallen Angel, 04 (She's Got) The Devil Inside, 05 Won't Stop, 06 Summerlove, 07 (I Can't Stand) Losing You, 08 Limbo a Go Go, 09 Hard As a Rock, 10 Lovers, 11 Babe, You Got a Friend, 12 Knock on Wood, 13 Freedom, 14 One by One, 15 You Re the Best (Money Can Buy), 16 Gotta Have It All, 17 Everything About You, 18 All I Wanna Do, 19 Rock 'n' Roll Angel. The album can be purchased via this outlets - Denmark: www.imusic.dk/cd/5099963130720/fate-2010-25-years-the-best-of-cd Europe/Scandinavia: cdon.eu/music/fate/25_years%3a_the_best_of_fate_1985-2010-8564554 USA: www.amazon.com/25-Years-Best-Fate/dp/B003AVAJFM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1270563522&sr=8-1.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Bon Jovi is excited to welcome the "American Bad Ass" Kid Rock to The Circle Tour lineup for most July dates! Kid Rock has received five Grammy Award nominations and has sold 22 million albums to date in the United States; he will definitely be an act to catch. Edwin McCain is in Cara's Basement this week: www.CarasBasement.com. He talks about how he wrote his new song "Walk With You" for a daughter of a friend, for her wedding....and how's he's totally fine with becoming a sort-of "wedding singer". He also talks about how thrilled he was to tour for the troops recently. Townsend Records UK are set to release Thunder Live At The BBC (1990 - 1995) 6 CD Box set on May 24, 2010. The release features 61 previously unreleased tracks all lovingly remastered from the original tapes, with liner notes from Classic Rock and Metal Hammer's Dave Ling packaged in a deluxe clamshell box. Full details of the box track listing can be viewed at: www.townsend-records.co.uk/artist.php?artist=Thunder&pType=1. Check out a clip of the upcoming Wall Street 2 movie with the music Money Never Sleeps by Covered Call dubbed over: www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTU2A0WyDHA. I'm hearing that Universal Music Japan has cancelled plans for release of two Def Leppard album re-issues (On Through The Night and High & Dry) that were to feature bonus discs as bonus content. Mad Max have been added to the bill of Rocklahoma 2010 and will share the stage with ZZ Top, Cinderella, Godsmack, Tesla and more. www.rocklahoma.com. CASANOVA'S 20TH ANNIVERSARY - DEBUT REISSUE IN APRIL: Though Casanova may not have become a household name in the 90's hard rock scene it wasn't for a lack of great songs and drive to succeed. Their roots began in such classic and esteemed German hard rock/heavy metal bands such as Mad Max and Warlock. Formed in 1990 when Warlock super-producer, Henry Staroste, brought Michael Voss and Michael Eurich together to craft the debut album, Casanova, that took the hard rock world by storm. Well, the hard rock world outside of the USA that is. Touring Europe in support of the album, which eventually sold 170,000 copies, only helped to establish and strengthen their rapidly increasing fan base. A devout fan base that remains by their side, even now, 20 years later. Casanova has been out of print for years and was never actually released in the United States until now. With supplies diminishing over the years, the price of obtaining an original copy of Casanova has skyrocketed to prices exceeding the $100 mark. So with it being the band's 20th anniversary we are extremely excited to present a new deluxe edition of the album which includes not only remastered audio, but seven (7) bonus tracks. This updated release of Casanova is the ultimate edition and more importantly a celebration of the classic hard rock sounds of Casanova! Casanova (Deluxe Edition) Street Date: 4/13/2010 Track List: 01 Don't Talk About Love 02 Burning Love 03 Living A Lie 04 The Girl Is Mine 05 Rome Burns 06 Love Lies 07 Bang Bang 08 Sticky Sweet 09 Back To The Wall 10 Ride The Wings Of Freedom 11 Hollywood Angels 12 Heaven Can Wait (Bonus Tracks) 13 Hot Legs 14 Written In My Heart 15 Hollywood Angels (Acoustic) 16 Love Lies (Acoustic) 17 Don't Talk About Love (Live) 18 Burning Love (Live) 19 Ride The Wings Of Freedom (Live). Free Shipping within the United States for all Pre-Orders placed before album street date of 4/13/2010.   SEVEN KINGDOMS SIGNS TO NIGHTMARE RECORDS: Nightmare Records would like to welcome Florida-based female-fronted power metallers Seven Kingdoms to the fold. Recently Nightmare records inked a deal with Seven Kingdoms to release their upcoming "self titled" album Seven Kingdomsdue to hit streets July 13th worldwide via Nightmare Records and associated distribution partners. Nightmare Records owner and prog power vocalist Lance King was impressed with the bands vocal siren Sabrina Valentine, her unique, warm and melancholic melodic sense combined with this speedy power metal band should please fans that are into the sound of Bind Guardian, Evanesence, Nightwish, Iced Earth, Within Temptation, Epica. Seven Kingdoms was formed in Deland, Florida in 2007 by Camden Cruz and Bryan Edwards. After forming the bands initial lineup they entered Morrisound Recording Studios in August 2007 they finished production on their debut self financed independent release, "Brothers of the Night" lyrically inspired from the literary works of George R. R. Martin. Playing shows throughout the southeastern region of the United States, the band share the stage with bands Sonata Arctica, The Agonist, Stephen Pearcey, Circle II Circle. In 2009 the band solidified their lineup and the new and improved Seven Kingdoms finished their self titled sophomore effort again at the well known Morrisound Studios. Release date: July 13, 2010 / Track List: 1. Prelude 2. Somewhere Far Away 3. The Ones Who Breathe The Flame 4. Open The Gates 5. Venegeance By The Sons Of A King 6. Wolf In Sheep's Clothes 7. A Murder Never Dead 8. Into The Darkness 9. Eyes To The North 10. Thunder Of The Hammer 11. Seven Kingdoms. WebLink: www.sevenkingdoms.net.   GUITARIST BRUCE KULICK FEATURED IN NEW THE RIGHT TO ROCK PODCAST: TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest podcast (episode #98), featuring guitarist Bruce Kulick. Bruce took time out of his busy schedule to discuss his latest release BK3 as well as some upcoming dates for Grand Funk. Bruce gives us the lowdown of how the CD came together and what it was like working with some special guests. Interview lasts approx. 30 min. Is traditional radio as we know it dead? Has satellite radio and MP3 players taken over? Join Genghis and Ragman as they discuss the fate of free radio as we know it. Does your free radio market suck? If so, tune in to find out what the alternatives are. Next the boys round up Bruce Kulick for a one on one. Bruce discusses his latest solo CD BK3, and what it took to make it. Bruce also gives us the skinny on his days in KISS as well as his involvement since the reunion. MOONDANCE JAM ADDS TO THEIR BILL: Sammy Hagar and the Wabos, Cinderella, Pat Travers, Blackstone Cherry and Tonic have all been added to this year's Moondance Jam schedule, joining the previously-announced Lynyrd Skynyrd, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar (with Neil Giraldo), Buckcherry, Collective Soul, Hoobastank, former-Eagle Don Felder's "A Night at the Hotel California," Jonny Lang and Blackberry Smoke. Now in its 19th year, this year's event will take place July 14-17, 2010 in Walker, Minnesota. Tickets are available now at www.moondancejam.com or by calling 1-877-MOONJAM. The Red Rocker returns to Walker during a limited run of summer dates that take him away from the studio and work on the new Chickenfoot record. Vic Johnson, Mona and David Lauser will join Sammy during a typical Waborita party on Thursday night that should include all of Hagar's solo hits along with songs from Montrose and Van Halen. Cinderella is back on the road after a three-year break away from the limelight as vocalist Tom Keifer recovered from throat problems. Now singing again at full strength, one of rock's unique voices will front this 80's favorite as the band plays a greatest hits set. Travers makes his first ever appearance at the Jam, his guitar pyrotechnics still thrilling rock fans after over 30 years on the road. Black Stone Cherry is also making its first appearance here, and the band's modern southern rock style fits in perfectly with Lynyrd Skynyrd on Saturday. Tonic debuts at the festival with a new single "Release Me," rising the charts. In addition to the three day main stage line-up, a Pre Jammin party will be held on Wednesday, July 14 with local favorites Hairball headlining on the main stage. Many more acts will play the regional stage in the saloon on all three days of the festival. Tickets are now available in a variety of packages. Concert goers can purchase Rockstar All Access, VIP, three day General Admission and single day tickets as well as camping and parking passes online or by contacting the Moondance ticket office. Moondance Jam has festival seating for General Admission ticket holders, meaning that front row access and lawn seating is available for everyone. Moondance Jam is held on the beautiful 300 acre Moondance Events festival grounds, situated in the middle of Chippewa National Forest near Leech Lake. The festival features thousands of campsites, well-kept facilities, two bars with regional entertainment, excellent security, many food and beverage vendors, an experienced staff and owners who have been organizing music festivals since 1992. The safe, fan friendly atmosphere and idyllic location are just a few reasons why people return year after year to the Walker Area for the Moondance music festivals.

 

 

Thursday, April 01, 2010

MASTERPLAN SET TO RECAPTURE METAL GLORY: Out May 21 is the new Masterplan album Time To Be King, which will feature the line-up of: Jørn Lande - Vocals; Roland Grapow - Guitars; Jan-Sören Eckert - Bass; Axel Mackenrott - Keyboards; Mike Terrana - Drums. The album is preceded by the single Far From The End Of The World on April 16. Tracklist: 1. Time To Be King 2. Fiddle Of Time 3. Lonely Winds Of War 4. Blue Europa 5. Far From The End Of The World 6. The Dark Road 7. Under The Moon 8. Blow Your Winds 9. The Black One 10. The Sun Is In Your Hands. Bonus Tracks: 11. Kisses From You (Limited Edition Bonus Track) 12. Never Walk Alone (Japanese Bonus Track).   xx JOHN NORUM GETS BLUESY: From John Norum's MySpace page: "Play Yard Blues have had it's share of many different release dates but now it's here, on May 17 it will be released on Mascot Records. It will also be released in Japan with a bonus track, stay tuned for more information on that. Musicians on the new album is Tomas Torberg (bass), Thomas Broman (drums) and Peer Stappe (oercussion) with special guests Leif Sundin (vocals on Born Again and Got My Eyes On You) as well as Mic Michaeli on keyboards. Play Yard Blues Official Track list: Let it Shine (Norum / Torberg) Red Light Green High (Norum / Torberg) It's Only Money – Thin Lizzy cover – (Lynott) Got My Eyes on You (Norum / Sundin) When Darkness Falls (Norum / Torberg / Steppe) Over and Done (Norum / Steppe) Ditch Queen – Frank Marino and Mahogany Rush cover – (Frank Marino) Travel in the Dark (Pappalardi / Collins) Born Again (Norum / Sundin) Play Yard Blues – (Norum).   ANOTHER LIVE EXTREME PREVIEW:   MICHAEL VESCERA APPEARING ON FORTHCOMING EMPIRES OF EDEN ALBUM: Empires of Eden is very proud to announce Mike Vescera as one of the feature artists on the upcoming album Reborn in Fire. Mike's incredible voice has appeared on multiple albums for Yngwie Malmsteen and with Japanese metal giants Loudness. Mike is featured on a full length song on the album entitled 'Of Light and Shadows'. From guitarist Stu Marshall: "Being such a huge fan of Mike's voice, I wanted to create an aggressive, dynamic song to match his style and attack. Add to that the huge influence of Yngwie Malmsteen and Akira Takahashi (Loudness) and the pressure was definitely on for me." Reborn in Fire, the new album from Empires of Eden features some of the world's most respected heavy metal voices. Released by 7Hard, the album is slated to be on the shelves in June. Further announcements on the guests will continue in the coming weeks. Download sample song (2:25) MP3: Empires Of Eden - Of Light and Shadows feat. Mike Vescera [All lyrics and melodies written by Michael Vescera, Intro screams – Mike Vescera - Carlos Zema – Toshinori Kamiya] Check www.empiresofeden.com and www.7hart.de for all news and pre-release information. NEH RECORDS OFFERS FREE SHIPPING: NEH Records announces Free Shipping within the United States from April 1 through April 15. During this time all US orders that are received or shipped will get FREE shipping – includes Pre-Orders and Back Orders. Pre-orders placed from April 1-15 will ship free (even if they ship after April 15) and any back and pre-orders on file now that ship from April 1-15 ship free also. All items in the store are included and there is no limit on order size. Applies only to orders that ship within the United States and lasts until midnight Rocky Mountain time on April 15. www.nehrecords.com. REVIEWS UPDATED: New Reviews! Online today are new reviews for: Treat, Crazy Lixx, Auras, Stage Dolls, Human Temple, Hard, Liberty & Justice, Darkology and Arch Rival. Read Them Now.

 

 

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

THIRD EYE'S RECIPE FOR THEIR DEBUT RELEASE: Escape Music have announced their next release - Third Eye's debut album Recipe For Disaster, due out in Europe May 21. The Band: Per Johansson – Vocals (ex-Crystal Knight Album "Crystal Knight" / Fate "Scratch 'N Sniff", "Fate V"); Michael Bodin - Guitar (ex-Prophets Doom - Northern Empire); Martin Damgaard - drums (ex-Sweet Leaf); Thomas Kuhlmann - guitar; Andreas Schumann, Bass; Simon Long Krogh - Keyboards. The Tracks: 1. Solitary Confinement 4:58 2. Recipe For Disaster 6:30 3. Dark Angel 5:59 4. Six Feet Under 5:20 5. Eye Of Envy 8:56 6. Psychological Breakthrough 5:02 7. Darkness Into Dawn 7:13 8. Snake In The Grass 5:57 9. The Sacred And The Profane 5:59 10. The Psychiatrist 10:48. Third Eye started as a band back in 2003. Spring 2008 the band headed to the studio to start the recording of what was to become the album: Recipe For Disaster. The recordings stretched for almost a year due to a lot of different setbacks. In the 11th hour the band even had to see keyboard player Rasmus Kostending leave the band and it seemed that the album would get further delayed. Luckily Finn Zierler, from Beyond Twilight, stepped in and helped with keys on some of the songs. The rest was taken care of by Tommy Hansen at Jailhouse Studios. A year after Third Eye started recording, Tommy Hansen laid the final hand on the mixing and mastering. The album was ready to be revealed to the world. Easier said than done though. One more year should pass, struggling with different labels, before "Recipe For Disaster" was finally ready for the world, 2 years after starting the recordings. During this period Simon Krogh joined the band on keyboards. A long and hard journey was over. By coincidence the album title fitted the recording-process, even though it was created before the recording started. This fine release is a great metal album which will impress right from the start. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   xx BLACK MAJESTY ANNOUNCE EUROPEAN RELEASE DATE OF IN YOUR HONOUR: Australian melodic power metal band Black Majesty will release their new cd titled In Your Honour in Europe on May 14 through their Limb Music label. The band worked with Roland Grapow of Masterplan/ex Helloween who produced the album at Grapow Studios in Slovakia. The art work for the new album was again handled by Dirk Illing (Scorpions, Wizard) which continues the theme of the bands past works. 'In Your Honour' track listing includes: 01. Far Beyond 02. God Of War 03. Millennium 04. Break These Chains 05. Further Than Insane 06. End Of Time 07. Wish You Well 08. Follow 09. Witching Hour *The European digipack will include two bonus tracks: 10. Two Hearts 11. Silent Company - acoustic version. WebLinks: www.blackmajesty.com / www.myspace.com/blackmajesty / www.limb-music.de.   RIOT AUSTRALIA SIGN BLACK LABEL SOCIETY FOR AU/NZ TERRITORY: Riot Entertainment is proud to announce the signing of Black Label Society to its roster for Australia and New Zealand. Riot Entertainment Owner/CEO John Howarth stated, "Riot's and my history with Zakk Wylde and Black Label Society goes way back to the beginning of Black Label Society's career. We have released every BLS album down here ever since, except for one. Zakk is like family and it's an honour to work with BLS again. We are really excited about the reports we are receiving and can't wait to hear the finished product. We are getting ready to fire up the machine and really push the new album over the top here in Australia. Zakk knows we will get down and dirty again to push this album. We are really looking forward to Zakk and the boys touring again here in 2011!" Zakk Wylde added, "John and the Riot team have done the BLS camp proud down under. We're glad to be back with our Aussie brothers and sisters and look forward to tearing it up in Australia in early 2011." In the two decades since Ozzy Osbourne hired him away from his job at a New Jersey gas station to become his new guitarist, Zakk Wylde has established himself as a guitar icon known and revered the world over. Writing and recording with Osbourne led to multi-platinum success, inspiring him to create the now legendary Black Label Society in 1998. In the decade plus since, BLS has turned the notion of what a rock band should be upside down by inspiring legions of fans (known as Berserkers) all over the world to follow the mantra: Strength, Determination, Merciless, Forever (SDMF for short). Wylde and his Berserkers have established a heavy metal institution true to the vision of uncompromising, unfiltered and unrestrained rock n' roll. Wylde has won nearly every guitar award imaginable, graced countless guitar magazine covers and is a major influence to a new battalion of rock guitarists. WebLinks: www.blacklabelsociety.com / www.riotact.com.au. A BUSY SCHEDULE AHEAD FOR ROCK LEGENDS RUSH: A long overdue update on all things Rush, courtesy of a post-Canadian Songwriters Hall Of Fame report from The Sun and some albums updates from: www.rushisaband.com. www.torontosun.com/entertainment/music/2010/03/29/13390031.html: "Toronto prog-rock veterans Rush have lasted more than 40 years because of their unique sound and songwriting by consensus. So said drummer-lyricist Neil Peart as he, singer-bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson became the first band to be inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall Of Fame on Sunday night during a gala ceremony at the Toronto Centre For The Arts. "First of all - songwriting award? Rush? There must be some mistake," joked Peart joined by Lee and Lifeson on stage as the band accepted their honor following a standing ovation and an introduction by Dave Bidini (Rheostatics). Peart also made fun of the band's '70s stage outfits "of alarming bathrobes and kimonos." More seriously, Peart said the band's most successful album, 1981's Moving Pictures, was an important one for the group. "When we found our sound, we found our audience," he said as he delivered a speech in both English and French. (He has a house in the Laurentians). "We were slowly channeling the trend toward becoming more concise, more driving and more direct while still retaining the stylistic quirks and indulgences that pleased us." But Peart said the band's signature sound was always the result of agreement amongst the three musicians. "One big reason for our unaccountable longevity is that we have always been involved equally in creating our songs - words and music," he said. "It should be remembered that a three-piece band cannot be a democracy. It's no good having two winning members and one who feels like a loser. We always aim to find consensus." Rush, who are currently five songs into a new album, were feted at the CSHF gala with tribute performances that were quirky and original - Les Claypool of Primus (The Spirit Of Radio); YouTube phenom Jacob Moon (Subdivisions) who utilized a cassette player to incorporate Peart's voice during a stellar one-man display that showed off his beautiful voice; and St. Catharines, Ont., hardcore band Alexisonfire (Tom Sawyer), who had opened for Billy Talent earlier in the evening at the Air Canada Centre before racing up Yonge Street to close the gala. "If you'd told me when I was 16-years-old that I'd be friends with the guys in Rush, and would be involved in an event such as this I probably would have soiled myself," said Claypool, who was joined by bandmates, including a cellist, all wearing strange-looking masks suitable for a bank robbery." www.rushisaband.com: "Sandra Miller of Akron's 97.5 WONE had a brief conversation with Geddy Lee recently where Geddy confirms Rush's plans for touring/recording that were first mentioned by Alex Lifeson in a Toronto Globe and Mail interview last week. Here's what Geddy said: "We're kind of looking at a kind of a 2 year plan. A little bit of writing now, getting a couple of tracks down. Playing some songs in the summertime on tour that people are not familiar with as well as bringing back a whole range of older songs. And getting quickly back into the studio again and finishing the album and see what the impact of that is." Here's what Alex Lifeson had said in his Toronto Globe and Mail interview last week: "We were off for a year and a half, and now it's just pouring. Everything is totally crazy and there's not a minute left in the day. We've got these half-dozen songs, and we'll probably go in the studio and work on a couple of them and see how it goes, perhaps release something - and I say perhaps - and then we plan on being on the road in the middle of June. Ideally, we'd like to showcase a couple of these songs on the tour, come off tour in mid-October, go back in the studio and continue writing, then record through late this year and early next year, and then release the album in the spring of 2011 on a slightly more substantial tour. This [year's] tour will probably be about 45 dates. Most likely summer, 2011, would be more like 70..." SEVENDUST LAUNCH U.S. TOUR, PRE-ORDERS IN SUPPORT OF 'COLD DAY MEMORY' - OUT APRIL 20: Sevendust--Lajon Witherspoon (vocals), Morgan Rose (drums/vocals), Clint Lowery (guitar/vocals), Vince Hornsby (bass/vocals), John Connolly (guitar/vocals)­ are currently putting the finishing touches on a headlining tour with Drowning Pool and will take a much-deserved break before heading out to do it all over again in April and beyond. The band will be world premiering the DVD portion of the album and doing a special acoustic gig at the Hard Rock Cafe in their hometown of Atlanta, GA the night before release, April 19th. Details and ticket information TBA. The band's eighth studio album, Cold Day Memory, comes out April 20 on their own 7Bros. Records, through Warner Music Group's Independent Label Group. The album­produced by Grammy® nominated Johnny K (Disturbed, Staind, 3 Doors Down, Plain White T's)­is the band's first new album with their original line-up back together with Lowery's return after his departure in 2003. Sevendust's new single, "Unraveling", is #17 and rising on the BDS Active Rock chart – It's the most well received single in the bands history and has a chance to be a crossover smash. Buy "Unraveling" on itunes.apple.com/us/album/unraveling/id356146568?i=356146602. To make the tour extra special, Ticketmaster is offering an "Ultimate Memory Fan Package" bundle, which pairs a ticket to the show with an autographed copy of Cold Day Memory and a meet & greet with the band. Further info can be found on Ticketmaster by doing a search for Sevendust tickets: www.ticketmaster.com. WebLinks: www.sevendust.com / www.facebook.com/pages/Sevendust/25493613958.

 

 

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF PRETTY MAIDS 13TH STUDIO ALBUM: Danish Dynamite Rockers Pretty Maids will release their anticipated new album Pandemonium on May 14 in Europe and June 8 in the USA. Pandemonium is the band's 12th studio album and their first full length release over the last four years. A 90 secs. preview of the single "Little Drops of Heaven" is now available for streaming on www.prettymaids.dk and on the band's and Frontiers myspace sites (www.myspace.com/pmaids / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords). Produced by Jacob Hansen (who has also worked with Volbeat, Rob Rock and Beyond Twilight between others), "Pandemonium" with its melodic approach is a definite return to the "Future World / Red Hot and Heavy" era of the eighties, but with an updated sound and freshness that consolidates that Pretty Maids are as strong as ever. "I think this new record shows the band in its finest moment", says singer Ronnie Atkins "that's definitely our best effort in many years and the spirit in the band is higher than ever". This album also introduces keyboard player Morten Sandager as a permanent member of the band and his impact is evident on the tracks of the cd, particularly on the hauntingly melodic new single "Little Drops of Heaven" which will be released – only as a digital download, as an exclusive teaser leading to the album's release, on April 13 worldwide. Written in the fall 2009 and recorded in the winter 2010, "Pandemonium" will be supported by several festival appearances during the summer of 2010 and then followed by a full scale European tour in Oct/Nov 2010. "Pandemonium" tracklisting includes: Pandemonium, I.N.V.U., Little Drops of Heaven, One World One Truth, Final Day of Innocence, Cielo Drive, It Comes at Night, Old Enough to Know, Beautiful Madness, Breathless, It Comes at Night (remix)*. * Bonus track available first pressing in digipak. Pretty Maids: Ronnie Atkins - vocals; Ken Hammer – guitars; Kenn Jackson – bass; Allan Tschicaja - drums; Morten Sandager - keyboards. WebLinks: www.prettymaids.dk / www.myspace.com/pmaids / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xxxx WHAT IS VAN HALEN UP TO NOW?: PART 303: So I keep getting hammered with e-mails asking "what is Van Halen doing...". Not much it would seem. There is the occasional "new material is being worked on" comment comes from the band, but with no ETA and it seems a chance for the band to team up for a long rumored mega-name dual-headliner tour has evaporated for 2010. There is no word to suggest that if and when anything new comes to pass that David Lee Roth will be the singer at the helm, but it seems Dave isn't wasting any time sitting around. I'm hearing he has been working on new solo tunes with guitarist John 5 and drummer Greg Bissonette. Stay tuned... BACKSTAGE PASS WITH THE OUTFIELD: News from The Outfield: "A beaming John Spinks strolls across the floor of a London studio enthusing about a new and exciting album his band is currently recording. His band mates, Tony Lewis and Alan Jackman, share his enthusiasm as they genuinely feel this is their best album since the multi platinum debut Play Deep. John reveals the album will sound like where they should have gone after Play Deep but will include elements from Bangin' and Voices Of Babylon. But all three musicians agree, that it just sounds like The Outfield in 2010! Going into the recording sessions last year, John and Tony demoed about forty songs and eventually streamlined the tracks down to twenty with the help of Alan's return. The demos varied in style, from the Pink Floyd inspired 'Praying For Mercy' to the soulful Rod Stewart sounding 'Got My Heart'. But as the sessions began with Alan, there was the instant magic that propelled The Outfield's first three albums. At this point, the songs just started to evolve into what will be the next Outfield album. This magic carried over to John's songwriting as he continued to write for the recording sessions. It is at this point, that John wrote 'California Sun' and 'A Long, Long Time Ago' back to back. Many industry insiders feel the songs will be the albums first two singles. The Outfield hope to complete mixing by May as the recording process has given the band a bit of 'studio fever'. The new album is self -produced with executive production by John. The twelve to fifteen hour work days have not dulled their enthusiasm surrounding the recording process. All three members admit they are just buzzing to play live! With the increasing complexity of the international environment, beset by multiplying global crises, the world needs a splash of sunny optimism. The world needs the music of The Outfield." WebLink: www.theoutfield.com/backstagepass.html. MELODIC BRIEFS: Meatloaf - the new Los Angelosers single - unsung genius, or completely mad (or madder than usual at least...): www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fn-4fg0Mv44. The video doesn't do the song any favors! Ratt lead singer Stephen Pearcy checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about their rabid new release Infestation; what it was like adding guitarist Carlos Cavazo (ex-Quiet Riot) to the mix; writing and recording new Ratt music again; the single and video for Best of Me, downloading in today's scene; upcoming tour plans; and a whole lot more. To hear Pearcy speak about everything Ratt, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/stephen-pearcy-of-ratt/. Some various articles to check out: Hall & Oates and a new generation of fans: ca.reuters.com/article/entertainmentNews/idCATRE62R23D20100328?sp=true. Anvil: piercingmetal.com/wordpress/?p=3349. Orphaned Land: piercingmetal.com/wordpress/?p=3282. Blue Oyster Cult: piercingmetal.com/wordpress/?p=3300. Apache, the hard-rockin guitarist perhaps best known for his work with Little Caesar will be sitting in with Sunset Strip cover band Fully Loaded at The Cat Club on Fri. April 2nd. SIN CITY SINNERS SINGER TO SLASH BAND: Sin City Sinners would like to congratulate our singer Todd Kerns, on becoming the bass player for Slash's touring band. This is a great opportunity and a chance to promote The Sinners on national level. Right now Slash's known live schedule is limited and we are not expecting Todd to miss much time. However, The Sinners will soon announce an extremely talented and well known sub to fill in for any shows Todd may miss. You will not be disappointed… You can see Todd perform with Slash: April 6th on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, April 8th on Lopez Tonight with George Lopez, April 9th on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. PRAYING MANTIS TO SWEDEN ROCK: Their classic debut "Time Tells No Lies" (1981) established Praying Mantis as one of the prime melodic bands within the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Sadly the band split up shortly afterwards due to various problems, including a conflict with Rainbow about who would get to release the single "I Surrender". Praying Mantis' Japanese fan-base in particular remained devoted, and the band reunited in 1990. The comeback-album "Predator in Disguise" was followed by more, equally excellent releases, most recently the lauded "Sanctuary" in 2009. The band's line-up has changed numerous times (former members include Iron Maiden-refugees Paul Di'Anno, Dennis Stratton and Clive Burr), but its nucleus has always been the Troy brothers, Chris and Tino on bass and guitar respectively. At Praying Mantis' SRF-debut the duo will be accompanied by guitarist Andy Burgess, drummer Benjy Reid and singer Mike Freeland. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: CD Showcase has been updated with the following new previews: Asia, Crashdiet, Tesla (all Frontiers Records, due April 23) and Alan Parsons (Frontiers, out now) plus Mass & Firecracker (Escape Music, out April 23) and Chris Laney (Metal Heaven, out April 23). Check them all out.

 

 

Monday, March 29, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE JOHN WAITE'S NEWEST LIVE ALBUM IN REAL TIME: John Waite, the popular British singer/songwriter/performer who brought you immortal songs such as the smash Billboard #1 hit "Missing You", "Change" and "When I See You Smile" (with Bad English) is back with In Real Time – a live album capturing the energy of his new live show and his renewed love for Rock Music. In Real Time is an electrifying new live CD recorded on tour during 2009 with John Waite's super-charged three-piece band. The album will hit stores on May 14th in Europe on Frontiers Records. Classic hits like "Change," "Missing You," The Babys' "Back On My Feet Again" and "Head First", Bad English's "Best Of What I Got" and "When I See You Smile" and even a blistering version of Led Zeppelin's "Rock and Roll" take on entirely new lives in their raw forms on the spontaneously delicious "In Real Time". "It's a lot of the hits played how we play them live," Waite says of "In Real Time". "It's like late 60's rock in London when it was performance driven, prior to becoming commercialized – back in the days when everybody got in a transit van, sat on the amps and drove for hours to the next gig. When I set out to do this record, I wanted to simplify it down to what I remember rock and roll being as a kid – a three-piece band with a singer – so it's very raw and right on the edge." John Waite recorded five albums with The Babys before launching a solo career with "Ignition", a record which spawned the MTV/rock radio staple "Change", only to be surpassed later by one of the greatest pop/rock ballads of all time – "Missing You". In the late 80's, John Waite continued his success with supergroup Bad English. Along with a succession of Billboard Hot 100 hits he achieved the #1 position, once again, with the band's single, "When I See You Smile". John Waite has released nine studio albums to date and is currently writing for and working on an all new original material record expected sometime in 2010. "In Real Time" includes the following songs: Change; Back On My Feet Again; In Dreams; Every Time I Think of You; Band Intro; Prelude; New York City Girl; Best Of What I Got; Missing You; Head First; Rock and Roll; When I See You Smile*. * Bonus Track Band: John Waite:  Lead Vox, Rhythm Guitar on "In Dreams" & "When I See You Smile"; Tim Hogan:  Bass Guitar; Luis Maldonado:  Lead Guitar, Backing Vox; Billy Wilkes:  Drums, Backing Vox. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/johnwaite / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx MELODIC BRIEFS: A new Survivor release to be titled Re-Entry? Front Line Management, which was founded by Irving Azoff, sued Axl Rose in Los Angeles on Thursday for nearly $1.9 million in unpaid fees. The company claims it had an oral agreement with Rose to receive 15 percent of the Guns N' Roses' frontman's commissions. The lawsuit states the commissions are due on more than $12 million in earnings Rose made for performances abroad: www.azcentral.com/thingstodo/music/articles/2010/03/26/20100326manager-sues-axl-rose.html. Robert Plant is returning to his music roots, reforming the 1960's era Band Of Joy which was the group he led with drummer John Bonham prior to hooking up with Mr Page and Mr John Paul Jones: undercover.com.au/News-Story.aspx...For_Band_of_Joy. MICHAEL BORMANN UPDATE: Exerpts from the latest Michael Bormann Newsletter: "Unfortunately there won't be any live-activities in the near future. My live-band is incomplete. Olli Muller (Bass) has turned his back on the music-industry and Andreas Rippelmeier (guitar) is taking an artistic timeout. Plus, my production-schedule is way too tight and so I just don't have the time to rehearse. It really takes time to become "one as a band. I'm not willing to do things (whatsoever) halfhearted. The 4th Michael Bormann-Solo Album – Different - I'm almost done with all recordings and I am very happy about it. It really took me a while (on and off within the last 10months….) to accomplish the album, because I didn't really know, what I wanted in the very beginning. So I started to tape around 30 songs. But I got a picture now and I am getting closer. 12-14songs will be on Different (still working title). Release is planned for June. The new, still untitled Redrum-album will finally be mixed in May. The release is not planned yet. Well be performing on a big Greek festival in July. Details will follow. I will also collaborate with a German Band called Assignment. Robin Beck, Mats Leven and Carsten Kaiser will be the other singers on their concept-album. Shining Line is another project, that features some of the greatest melodic rock-singers. I feel honoured to be a part of it. Release is planned for May. Here's a little press statement: Shining Line is another great AOR project, lead by Pierpaolo "Zorro11" and Amos Monti. The album was produced by Alessandro Del Vecchio (Edge Of Forever, Glenn Hughes, Axe), mixed & mastered by Michael Voss (Voices Of Rock) and features lead vocals from Robin Beck, Harry Hess (Harem Scarem), Erik Martensson (W.E.T., Eclipse), Bob Harris (Axe), Robbie & Brian LaBlanc (Blanc Faces), Michael Voss (Mad Max, Casanova), Michael Bormann, Mikael Erlandsson (Last Autumn's Dream), Michael Shotton (Von Groove) and many more. After all this I don't wanna forget to mention, that I plan another release (release date is planned for late 2010, or early 2011) with my buddies from Heavenward (as I played my tour with 3/5 of the band). The basics are already done. As soon as I'll find the time, I'll be running over the songs. POWERPLAY ISSUE 118 OUT NOW: Powerplay Issue 118, with Airbourne on the front cover, has just hit the newsstands. In this issue we have interviews with Foreigner, Giant, Stage Dolls, White Wizzard, Dynazty, Gun and Karnataka amongst many others. In AOR Underground we have reviews of Wig Wam, Giant, Peep Show, The Score, Reggie Knighton Band, Trillion, Balance, Teenage Casket Co, The Ladder, Jimmy Martin And New Deal, Linehouse, Tycoon, Duke Jupiter, Grand Slam, Alyson Avenue, State Of Rock, Leverage, Jay Lewis, Last Autumn's Dream and Human Temple. Powerplay is available from all good magazine stores, and several crap ones as well. Or check out the website at www.powerplaymagazine.co.uk for further details. Over on the MySpace page we have interviews with Tony Mills and Peep Show, as well as a Steve Perry Interview from 2006. Check them out at www.myspace.com/aorundergroundrobevans. VAINS OF JENNA INTRODUCE NEW FRONT MAN LEAD VOCALIST JESSE FORTE: It was just 10 days ago that Vains Of Jenna announced the departure of their long time friend, Swedish comrade and vocalist Lizzy DeVine. However, it's a new day, change is now and we are proud to introduce to you Jesse Forte the new lead singer and front man for Vains Of Jenna. Jesse Forte was raised in Orange County California and comes from a musical back ground. He attended music school at MI, played in a slew of bands since a teenager and even admits he pan-handled on the corner playing guitar for money. Jesse says: "I am a performer first. Whether it be 5 people, or 5,000 – I am embrace that opportunity to sing and play music." The bands newest member was born in Arkansas but moved to the West Coast at a very young age. Eventually Hollywood's music scene came calling and Jesse started killing and thrilling crowds on the Sunset Strip. "We first saw Jesse in 2009 when his band opened for us at the 'Cat Club'. And he blew us away." Says Vains Of Jenna co-founder and bassist JP White. Jesse is unique for sure. Imagine Steven Tyler's charisma and Chris Cornell's voice mixed in a blender with a pair of nunchakus – and you get Jesse Forte. The bands new voice has studied the martial arts since his youth. The Swedish rockers have had lots of success during their young career in the states. So, this was no doubt a big blow – but the band refused to lay down and die. "It's not in my blood to stop doing what I started. I love music, I live music, and this is what I do." Says Nicki Kin the bands key song writer and multi instrumentalist. Kin plays lead guitar, piano and has in the last year; even shared some lead vocal duty in Vains Of Jenna. The band has lived the American dream by touring on the biggest of stages, appearing on the hippest TV shows, and gracing the pages of countless magazines. But that was yesterday, and today is a new day. "We embrace this change, and we welcome Jesse into our family." Says the band. Vains Of Jenna first burst into the music world when Kin & drummer Jacki Stone were still in High School. Gigs on the weekends, rehearsals at night and school all day. Jacki says: "Thank God that is behind us, I never liked school much and had no interest to be a factory worker. I pursued music very early and have no plans to quit." The youngest and self taught drummer has been playing in bands with Kin since they were in the 4th grade. Stone's brother White has this outlook: "We're not a Hollywood band or a Swedish band either. We're just a rock band. We want to see the world. And I speak for all of us when I say – we cannot wait for the world to see us." The bands brand new single with Jesse Forte singing "Everybody Loves You When You're Dead" on the MySpace. Play it now – video coming soon. Vains Of Jenna headline the "Whisky-A-Go-Go" Saturday April 10th 2010 in Hollywood, California. A European Tour follows with dates booked in Norway, Sweden, England, Wales, Italy & more. For more information, please visit the official myspace.com/vainsofjenna.

 

 

WebLinks: www.planetserpentine.co.uk / www.myspace.com/planetserpentine "The album Journey should have made" - Steve Price, ARfm "The kind of band that will make you believe once again" - Rob Evans, Powerplay Magazine "This album is amazing!" - Dave Prince, Uber Rock "Some of the smoothest and vibrant melodic rock you could wish to hear" - Dean Pedley, Sea of Tranquility 92% - Burrn! Magazine, Japan

 

 

Friday, March 26, 2010

FIREWORKS #39 - DIGITAL DOWNLOAD AVAILABLE NOW!: Another classic full-colour 100 page Fireworks issue featuring fantastic interviews with Foreigner, Cinderella, Richie Kotzen, Jeff Scott Soto, Transatlantic, Dare, Vinny Burns, Brian Howe, Marillion, Airbourne, Papa Roach, Soul Doctor, Stage Dolls, Chad Smith, Giant, Leverage, State of Rock, Tara's Secret, Keel, Diamond Head and many more. Over 30 pages of in-depth reviews! Also comes with free CD containing the following bands: Giant, Stage Dolls, Last Autumn's Dream, Stargazer, Tara's Secret, Heavenly, Wig Wam, Jon Oliva's Pain, State of Rock, Human Temple, Panic Room, Brian Howe, Fire, Orden Ogan, Mob Rules, Sora, Dirty Beloved and Roxville. For hard copy, visit the shop at www.rocktopia.com. For download copy (PDF Magazine file + Zip file including all CD tracks), please visit the MR Fireworks Showcase.   LATEST GEMS FROM THE ROCK CANDY VAULT: These releases are available immediately from the Rock Candy website (www.rockcandyrecords.com) for a discounted price of £10.99 each ending April 12. Detective 'S/T' CANDY068 / The Seventies, they say, was a time when rock 'n roll giants roamed the earth and, of course, none were more powerful than standard bearers Led Zeppelin. Casting their extensive and menacing shadow over the musical landscape, Zep had it all, including their very own boutique record company, Swan Song. More than just a vehicle for their own recorded output, Zep signed a number of fellow artists to the label and Detective were, aside from Bad Company, the cream of the crop. Led by British born front man Michael Des Barres (fresh from glam rock upstarts Silverhead) and featuring ex Yes keyboardist Tony Kaye and Steppenwolf guitarist Michael Monarch, the band were championed and signed by Jimmy Page, who intended to produce the record. As it turned out Jimmy's lifestyle, together with scheduling issues, focussed his attentions on other matters, resulting in an album recorded twice and costing in the region of a million dollars. "We took two months to get a drum sound that we liked," reveals Des Barres about that self-indulgent period. But such was the power of the performance rumours quickly circulated that John Bonham himself had played on the album. It was also suggested that Page had produced the record but under the unlikely pseudonym of Jimmy Robinson. It was easy to see why; the album, originally released in 1977, is a 24 karat hard rock master-class in the power and passion of explosive hard rock, featuring mountainous riffs and one of the great vocal performances of all time. Simply put, it doesn't get much better than this. Track Listing: 1. Recognition 2. Got Enough Love 3. Grim Reaper 4. Nightingale 5. Detective Man 6. Ain't None Of Your Business 7. Deep Down 8. Wild Hot Summer Nights 9. One More Heartache. Virginia Wolf 'S/T' CANDY069 / The Resurgence in popularity of British hard rock during the early and mid eighties had been fuelled predominantly by the emergence of the NWOBHM, a musical genre that mainly embraced rough hewn riff combos. However, a secondary more melodic movement was also in full swing spearheaded by musicians influenced by the enormous success of US based acts such as Journey, Foreigner and Loverboy. Virginia Wolf were, it must be said, very much at the cutting edge of the counter offensive, weighing in as one of the UK's most promising new groups. After years of struggle in their hometown of Manchester they eventually signed to Atlantic Records, by way of Genesis' music publishing company, and quickly recruited drummer Jason Bonham (fresh from a stint with Airrace, another of the era's brightest hopes) to record their debut album. Produced by Queen drummer Roger Taylor, the album hit all the right buttons and garnered critical acclaim with ease. Released in 1986, such was the furore surrounding the project that the band were quickly ushered Stateside to open the bill for guitarist Jimmy Page's post Led Zeppelin outfit The Firm (featuring Paul Rodgers), a tour that played to thousands every night in cavernous arenas. For a relatively fresh faced band from Manchester this was indeed a moment to cherish. The Virginia Wolf debut album is regarded as a milestone in melodic hard rock, relying heavily on gifted song writing, together with the stunning vocals of Chris Ousey, a man with one of the most identifiable voices in British rock. It is a simply breathtaking offering. Track Listing: 1. Are We Playing With Fire 2. Make It Tonight 3. Only Love 4. It's In Your Eyes 5. Waiting For Your Love 6. Livin' On A Knife Edge 7. For All We Know 8. Don't Run Away 9. Take A Chance 10. Goodbye Don't Mean Forever. Virginia Wolf 'Push' CANDY070 / Virginia Wolf's debut album caused major excitement amongst critics and fans alike. It was a heady, mature brew of class-A grade melodic hard rock with infinitely catchy songs (mainly drawn from the hands of guitarist Nick Bold), stunningly executed arrangements and astonishing vocals from Chris Ousey, one of the UK's most celebrated front men. That the album didn't set the charts on fire was no fault of their own, so naturally a traditional, steady build to stardom was expected. 'Push', the band's second and - as it turned out - final album, was delivered to a market that was rapidly changing and by a company that was, in the main, looking to make quick scores. Produced in San Francisco by Kevin Elson, a man who was at the time experiencing huge success with Europe's 'The Final Countdown', the record presented a far more mature approach to their craft. Once again, the songs were magnificent, the production being equally as exciting and the arrangements beyond reproach but with a record tailor made for the American market they really needed to a hit single, something that sadly never materialised. With the band stranded in Manchester and with no ability to tour the US, the record company quickly lost interest, exacerbating a slow death which began when drummer Jason Bonham opted to leave the band. Looking back, it's almost inconceivable that such a work of brilliance was cruelly overlooked and allowed to languish. Truly a magnificent and brilliantly crafted record which still sounds wonderfully fresh today. Track Listing: 1. Don't Break Away 2. One Night 3. Standing On The Edge Of Time 4. Open Door 5. Man On The Moon 6. Let It Go 7. You Don't Know What You've Got 8. Can You Feel The Fire 9. Tables Have Turned 10. The Strangest Thing (It's Called Love). Bonus Tracks: 11. Tearing Me Down 12. Matter Of Time.   xxxx TIME GENTLEMEN, PLEASE...THE RETURN OF AFTER HOURS: Another long lost UK AOR act walking down reformation road would have to be After Hours. These Southampton based AORsters had a brief foray into the world of AOR that was a short-lived one which consisted of a couple of albums ("Take Off" and "S/T") in the late eighties, early nineties before splitting up and going their separate ways. Lead singer John Francis had a brief tenure with Shy (check out the demo of "What Love Can Make You Do" on the Shy "Anthology") before disappearing completely and nothing has been heard of any of them since. Having got back together last year, the three original members (John Francis, Tim Payne and Martin Walls) are in the process of recording a new album that will see the light of day later this year. The five new tracks that have been laid down so far are nothing short of sensational and will have AOR fans the world over falling to their knees in awe. The likes of the ultra commercial "Turn On Your Radio" and the killer ballad that is "I Need Your Love" are two of the best songs that you'll hear in a long while, with the latter being a ballad of Journey-esque proportions. It's obvious from first listen that John Francis still has a superb voice, that sounds better today than it did in the eighties. The band will release the album, later this year. Check them out at: www.myspace.com/afterhours2009 and go over to www.myspace.com/aorundergroundrobevans for an exclusive interview with the band.   EMPIRES OF EDEN SIGNS WITH 7HARD RECORDS!: Empires of Eden has signed to 7Hard Records for the US, UK and European territories. The new album for Empires of Eden - Reborn in Fire will feature an all star cast of metals finest voices. Slated for a June release, the album features enormous production backed by a 30 piece orchestral score. The album delivers an epic and aggressive power metal assault in the style of Avantasia and the collaborative genius of Ayreon. Capped off with the incredible artwork by celebrated US artist "Alex Ruiz". From guitarist Stu Marshall: "It's an understatement to say we are excited about the new signing and we have been looking for the right label to partner with. The word was out that 7Hard are one of the best emerging labels out there and Axel's commitment to the bands is excellent. This new CD features some of metal's most recognizable voices and in a unique twist, they have all composed their own lyrical and melodic concepts." From 7Hard label manager Axel: "We are very proud and happy to have Empires Of Eden with this monster power metal release at 7Hard. Mastermind Stu is one of the best guys in the biz and it's a pleasure to work with him. Some of the biggest heavy metal superstars, great songs, with unique guitar work and powerful sound - a must have!" Check www.empiresofeden.com and www.7hart.de for all announcements and news on guests for the album. INTRODUCING HUMAN COMETH: Human Cometh begins and ends with the virtuosity and emotion of Swedish guitarist-songwriter Morgan Pettersson. The band came out of casual 'jam sessions' back in late 2009 when Pettersson and fellow Swede, singer Kaj Roth found they shared similar influences and musical styles. From these sessions arose the foundation of what was to become 'Human Cometh'. "Finding the 'right' singer was first and foremost. Someone who could convey what I was putting down on guitars and color the songs with great lyrics along with a voice to tell my stories. Kaj is that voice." says Pettersson. Now Pettersson had his voice and needed to find the right rhythm section to complete his vision. Prior to joining forces with Roth, Pettersson had been spending the bulk of his playing time posting tracks to www.kompoz.com, an online music collaboration website. Pettersson found his music to be well received on kompoz.com and made music with people all over the world. With tens of thousands musicians worldwide subscribing to kompoz.com, Pettersson found his rhythm section with Bjorn Pehrson on bass and Jon Robbins on drums. Pehrson, a fellow Swede, living just a few hundred miles from Pettersson co-incidently, gives a driving and rhythmic bottom end to which Robbins, from Fayetteville, NC, compliments with his powerful drumming style. The last piece to complete the roster was the addition of singer Steven Gardner from Boston, MA to provide back-up vocals. With exception of Morgan and Kaj, the band members have never met in person, not even so much as a telephone call between them. The resulting debut release, "Evolution", is the vision of Morgan Pettersson. The entire CD was recorded in a non-traditional way. All the tracks were recorded individually by the band members in their 'home' studios and then sent to Pettersson via the Internet, with the final mixing and mastering completed by renowned producer Ulf Wahlberg with XTC Productions based in Sweden. "Evolution" is nine tracks of melodic, heavy hard rock and metal featuring the searing guitars of Morgan Pettersson and melodic vocals of Kaj Roth. To demonstrate 'Human Cometh' is all about creativity and the sheer joy of making music, the band decided the CD will be available as a FREE download on Humancometh.com. Says Pettersson: "We feel it's more important to reach our audience with the music than to make money, so we felt it was a great way to introduce the band and our debut record". A second 'Human Cometh' full-length CD is in the works for release in late summer of 2010. Human Cometh Online: www.humancometh.com. VERSAILLES RECORDS DONATES 5,000 CDS TO TUNES FOR THE TROOPS: In April, 2010, Versailles Records will donate 5,000 of their best-selling Tribute CD Titles to Tunes for the Troops, a charity organization devoted to delivering tens of thousands of CDs and DVDs to troops in uniform serving in combat around the world. The organization's efforts have been recognized by national media outlets including CNN and the Washington Post among countless others. As label founder/owner Jake Brown explained, "Like every other label battling the nightmare of CD stock returns with the closings of Tower Records and related retail chains, we felt this was the BEST possible home for many of our staple catalog Tribute titles. This organization was started by a 14-year-old rock fan from her bedroom, and has grown into one of the leading charity movements of its kind, with over $10 Million worth of product donations to date. With the Afghanistan war still in full swing, they're as busy as ever, and we hope more labels- be they rock, metal, hip hop, etc- reach out and donate, as this is a truly great cause!' Anyone interested in learning more about this great organization should visit their website at www.tunes4thetroops.org. THUNDERSTONE's DIRT METAL: Thunderstone will release their new studio album Dirt Metal in Europe on May 24th, 2010 through Steamhammer / SPV Formed in early 2000 by ex-speed/thrash Antidote guitarist Nino Laurenne as a project, his first demo was recorded at his personally owned Sonic Pump Studios. With a growing awareness of the project's potential, a commitment was made to create a full-fledged band. Laurenne then recruited former Antidote bandmate Titus Hjelm on bass and backing vocals, Pasi Rantanen on vocals and Mirka Rantanen on drums. By the summer of 2001, Kari Tornack joined the ranks as keyboardist, and Thunderstone evolved into a quintet. With a demo in circulation garnishing positive praise and the new line-up concentrating on writing new music, things came to the inevitable head in the Fall of 2001: Nuclear Blast's attention was captured, a record deal was secured, and Thunderstone rushed into the studio within two weeks of the ink drying. Already preparing for a co-headlining tour with Swedish colleagues Nocturnal Rites, the band announced a shocking surprise in August 2007: Thunderstone had parted ways with singer Pasi Rantanen and keyboardist Kari Tornack. Musical differences and motivation problems were quoted as the main reasons for the unexpected split. Despite the difficult situation, the rest of the band decided not to disappoint their fans and do the planned European tour. The band recruited vocalist Tommi "Tuple" Salmela from Tarot and keyboardist Jukka Karinen and kicked ass all around the continent. The temporary line-up created a flood of speculation, which came to an end with the announcement of the new line-up in early February 2008. The vocal duties were taken up by Rick Altzi, a Swedish powerhouse with an incredible voice that ranges from a rough whisper to a full-fledged scream. On the keyboards the band signed Jukka Karinen, who already handled the key duties on the 2007 European tour. Never stopping even in the face of hardship, Thunderstone rages on! In July 2008, the now multinational line-up retired to a cabin in the Finnish woods to write and record new songs. Inspired by the new sound, the band started laying down basic tracks for their fifth studio effort in August, while continuing pre-production on still more songs. The result was the aptly titled Dirt Metal, an album which is no doubt the culmination of the evolution toward a heavier and darker sound for Thunderstone. Released in 2009 in Finland, the new masterpiece by the Finnish-Swedish Mayhem Crew is finally available on May 24th in Europe through Steamhammer/SPV! Hard-hitting yet ear-catching, rough yet subtle, the future of heavy metal: Thunderstone! Track Listing: 01. Rebirth 02. I Almighty 03. Dirt Metal 04. Blood That I Bleed 05. Star 06. Ghosts Of Youth 07. Counting Hours 08. Dodge Te Bullet 09. Deadlights 10. At The Feet Of Fools 11. Suffering Song. LIVE 15.04. GB-London - The Lexington 05.06. D-Euskirchen - Multi-Kulti-Art Festival WebLinks: www.thunderstone.org / www.myspace.com/spvmusic.   MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following: Foreigner - Live Unplugged, Munich March 3, 2010 (10 Tracks + Interviews) Video - Hard Rock Live Robert Palmer (4 tracks) and Cheap Trick (5 Tracks); Both Live 1997. MR-X Membership Details. I was on the verge of a few other updates today before time ran out. Tune in Monday for a large CD Showcase update and early-mid week for another set of new Reviews. In-between time I am developing a new reviews system and section, but no ETA on that being launched. But it's coming! And no, I have definitely not forgotten about the Release Dates page - the current workload for MelodicRockFest 2 has made certain updates hard to get to. Thanks for your patience.

 

 

Thursday, March 25, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE TRIUMPH NEWEST "GREATEST HITS REMIXED" CD/DVD PACKAGE: Triumph, the legendary Canadian Hard Rock trio formed by Gil Moore (drums and vocals), Mike Levine (bass and keyboards) and Rik Emmett (guitars and vocals) are releasing in Europe on Frontiers Records the newest Greatest Hits compilation package on CD and DVD appropriately titled Greatest Hits Remixed. The two-disc set, which will be in the shops on May 14, includes a hit-laden 14 track cd, which was remixed by Rich Chycki (Aerosmith, Rush), giving the songs an incredible sonic wallop. A previously unreleased recording of Love Hurts will be the new lead single. The DVD features eleven promo and live videos in widescreen filmed over Triumph's career, as well five bonus features, including 3 more unreleased videos ("Child of the City," "Blinding Light Show" and "Love Hurts") and footage of Triumph's induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2008. "We have been planning this release forever," says Mike Levine. "For years, Triumph fans have been demanding that we give them a fresh greatest hits package and they are going to love this one." The 6-panel digipak will also include a 20 pages full colour booklet, complete with liner notes, lyrics, credits and chockfull of vintage photos and will most certainly be a hit with Triumph's consistent legion of fans. Triumph pushed the limits of Arena Rock to the max with their legendary live shows and virtuoso playing. Add to it some of the most recognizable and celebrated radio classics ("Lay it on the Line", "Hold On", "Fight the Good Fight" and "Magic Power"), a vault full of gold and platinum sales awards for their ten studio albums and there you have one of the most successful rock acts of the 1970's/1980's! And now, fans both new and old will have the opportunity to discover/re-discover Triumph, with the all killer/no filler 'Greatest Hits Remixed.' Frontiers looks forward to work with Triumph and plans more surprises for the fans of this amazing band! "Greatest Hits Remixed" includes: CD: Allied Forces; Lay it on the Line; Follow Your Heart; Magic Power; I Live For the Weekend; Hold On; Just One Night; Fight the Good Fight; Spellbound; Never Surrender; Lights Go Down; Somebody's Out There; Rock and Roll Machine; Love Hurts. DVD: Follow Your Heart; Lay It On the Line; Spellbound; Magic Power; Lights Go Down; Hold On; Just One Night; Somebody's Out There; Allied Forces; Never Surrender; Never Say Never. Bonus Video: Child of the City (with Phil X on guitar); Blinding Light Show (Bootleg: Filmed on Fan Cam); Love Hurts. DVD Specs : Mix 2.0/5.1 / Screen 16:9 / Format NTSC Region free Weblinks: www.triumphmusic.com / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx MRF TICKETS - ON THEIR WAY: An update for all folks that are await MelodicRockFest 2 tickets - they are all in the air! Tickets went out to all on Monday and should be arriving at their various destinations any time now. To purchase tickets now - go to MelodicRockFest.com. MORE UPDATES ON H.E.A.T.'s FREEDOM ROCK: Two news updates from H.E.A.T. on the release of their upcoming Freedom Rock album: The record companies all around the world have been pushing the release date of "Freedom Rock" back and forth, but we think that we have the final release dates now. Here goes: Japan: 21 April 2010 / Northern Europe*: 12 May 2010 (*Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Russia) Europe: 28 May 2010. "We are really pleased with the recording and look forward to what the listeners have to say," says Crash of H.E.A.T. Unfortunately, the release has been delayed due to record companies in Japan and in Europe wanting a synchronized release, Crash continues. "It is planned that the new album "Freedom Rock" will now to be released May 12. The original release date was scheduled for April 8 at the Sweden Rock Cruise. H.E.A.T will perform on the cruise with both old and new material to meet all those who bought tickets and people will have the opportunity to pre-order the album on the cruise. The single "Beg, beg, beg" from the new album will be available in a limited edition on the cruise." Jona Tee of H.E.A.T: "We obviously want to be there ourselves to party with all those who bought tickets for the cruise because of us, and we hope they have the patience to wait a few weeks longer for the album. European Tour - The interest in H.e.a.t in Europe is big and in April the band is going on a European tour while promoting the upcoming album." Tour schedule: 2010-04-23 Madrid Rock Kitchen ES 2010-04-24 Pamplona Sala Gares ES 2010-04-25 Barcelona Salamandra ES 2010-04-27 Munich, DE Backstage 2010-04-28 Ludwigsburg Rockfabrik DE 2010-04-29 Pratteln Z7 CH 2010-04-30 Burglengenfeld VA-Zentrum DE 2010-05-01 Vosselaar Biebob BE 2010-05-02 Bologna pSottotetto Sound Club IT 2010-05-04 Markthalle Hamburg DE AMERICAN HI-FI READY TO 'FIGHT THE FREQUENCY' ON JUNE 22: Press Release / American Hi-Fi is ready to Fight The Frequency and back to their roots with their fourth studio album, due out June 22 on their own label, Hi-Fi Killers/The Ascot Club (through Megaforce/RED/Sony). It's the highly anticipated follow-up to 2005's Hearts On Parade (Maverick). It was produced by singer/guitarist Stacy Jones and recorded at his studio in Los Angeles, The Deathstar. The first single and video, "Lost," from the original line-up--Stacy Jones (singer/guitarist), Drew Parsons (bass), Jamie Arentzen (guitars) and Brian Nolan (drums)­will be released in the coming weeks. As Jones recently explained on Altpress.com: "I think we've circled back to the first record in terms of sonics and style. We've moved back to big, riff-driven guitar parts with melodies on top and a slightly harder edge." Jones later added, "In the past, there was always the pressures and expectations that came from being on a record label. Now, we have the freedom to put the business aside and just play rock music like we always wanted!" So what's the band been doing for the past five years? They've mostly been busy with Miley Cyrus. Singer Stacy Jones has been her music director and drummer, while Jamie Arentzen has been her guitarist. They've both been featured in everything and anything Miley Cyrus, including the 2009 movie and "Best Of Both Worlds" concert film/DVD. Jones has also produced records for artists such as Ingrid Michaelson, Meg & Dia, The Cab, Plain White T's, and many others. Over the course of their 10-year career, American Hi-Fi has sold over 1 million albums thanks to hit singles such as the Top 10 smash "Flavor Of The Weak," "Another Perfect Day" (which was used as Coca-Cola's theme for the 2002 Winter Olympics) and "The Art Of Losing," and they've toured the world with artists such as Elvis Costello, Matchbox Twenty, Bon Jovi and Fall Out Boy. Before teaming up as American Hi-Fi, the band members performed as part of various influential bands from the '90s Alternative Rock scene, including Veruca Salt and Letters to Cleo, and with Tanya Donelly, Tracy Bonham, Aimee Mann, and Juliana Hatfield individually. Their songs have been heard on TV shows and commercials such as Coors, Labatt Blue, Verizon, "Boston Public," "24" and "Dawson's Creek," video games including "Guitar Hero 3," and in movies including "American Pie 2," "Freaky Friday," "Van Wilder" and "Superman Returns." Stay tuned for news about upcoming U.S. tour dates. Here's the complete track listing for Fight The Frequency: 1. Acetate 2. Bullet 3. Fight The Frequency 4. Frat Clump 5. Keep It Like A Secret 6. Lookout For Hope 7. Lost 8. Recover The Stars 9. Stargazer 10. A Taste For Crime 11. This Is A Low 12. Tiny Spark 13. Where Love Is A Lie. WebLinks: www.americanhi-fi.com / www.myspace.com/americanhifi / twitter.com/americanhifi.   ARMORED SAINT DELIVER LA RAZA: Press Release / California's Armored Saint has entered the Billboard charts with La Raza, the band's latest and first release since 2001's Revelation. La Raza debuted at #49 on the Hard Music Albums Chart, #18 on the Heatseekers chart, #52 on the Top Independent Albums chart, and #2 on the Hard Music Core Stores chart. Armored Saint's La Raza also entered the official German album Charts coming in at #96! Congrats to the boys and the first German Chart entry in their career! In addition to hitting charts in both the US and Germany, the band also entered the Canadian charts coming in at #85 on the Independent chart! La Raza is the band's first album since Revelation in 2000 and their sixth in total. The album's foundation was laid back in 2008 when Joey Vera and John Bush began writing new material for what would become La Raza and the album was completed in December at Tranzformer Studios in Burbank, CA. The album was produced by bassist Joey Vera, and engineered by Bryan Carlstrom and his assistant John Nuss. Recording was mostly done with analog equipment and the final album mix was delivered on 1 inch tape. This gives La Raza the most organic sound as possible. Joey Vera comments on the packaging and creative aspect of La Raza: "Metal Blade is doing a really cool digi-pack package for us. We felt like the city of Los Angeles is such a big part of our fabric that we wanted to use that in the design of the artwork. So with the help of our good friend and photographer Stephanie Cabral and Brian Ames from the Metal Blade art department, we came up with a really cool package that represents our band and the music on this record. We also wanted to incorporate a green action by leaving out the plastic CD tray and using recycled paper. The result is a classy and poignant package."   MELODIC REVOLUTION RECORDS SIGNS DDRIVE: Melodic Revolution Records is proud to announce the signing of DDrive for their upcoming release 3D due out late spring 2010. Hailing from North America this DDrive released its self titled CD in early 2005 which received critical acclaim as well as airplay in the US, Australia, and Europe for having strong classic rock roots with a modern edge sound all its own. The groups main writers Phil Naro (Talas, Peter Criss & 24K) and Don Mancuso (The Lou Gramm Band, Black Sheep, Cheater, and Celtic Fire) and Andy Knoll (The Lou Gramm Band) decided to team up for the DDrive album and recruited the production expertise of Canadian monster Steve Major to round out the direction and production. The DDrive CD did so well that it was decided to put together the a second release from titled "Straight Up The Middle" Built on the strengths of the first CD. "Straight Up The Middle" was more focused and mature effort and is right in line with infectious grooves, emotion and the good and bad realities of the world today. DDrive "Straight Up The Middle" line up was Phil Naro (Vocals/Guitar), Don Mancuso (Guitar/Vocals), Andy Knoll (Keyboards, Guitars, sequencing & samples/ Vocals), Bobby Bond (Drums) & John Taylor (Bass/Vocals). Other musicians that appeared on "Straight Up The Middle" Joe Lana (Drums), Richard Gramm (Bass/Guitar), Lou Gramm (Backing Vocals) AD Zimmer & Dave Quick (Bass) and Steve Major (Guitar) "Straight Up The Middle" also received great reviews and proved to be another memorable effort! 3D promises to be a worthy follow up "Straight Up The Middle" as the band has become even tighter over the years. 3D has great significance as well, not only as their 3rd release but the CD will be housed in a special 3D cover with 11 new rocking tracks. Track Listing: Next Train, Dig Down, Kiss the Ground, Chains On You, Never Had A Chance, Last To Fall, Down Deep, Always Done, 1 To 7, Tumblin, Welcome To My World. DDrive 2010 is: Phil Naro (Vocals/Guitar) Don Mancuso (Guitar/Vocals) and new to the D:Drive family John Naro (Guitar/Vocals) rounding out the band is Bobby Bond (Drums) & John Taylor (Bass/Vocals). Special Guest: Billy Sheehan. WebLink: www.melodicrevolution.com.   HALFORD GUITARIST METAL MIKE TO SUPPORT PRIMAL FEAR AT JAXX, VA: Halford Guitarist "Metal" Mike Chlasciak will support German power metallers Primal Fear on their May 21st date at Jaxx, Virginia. This will mark the first 2010 solo show debuting Mike's new touring band and music from his forthcoming album "The Metalworker". Chlasciak will additionally join the band for a "jam" on May 20 at the Blender Theatre in New York City. Metal Mike has previously appeared as a guest on Primal Fear's 'Black Sun' (Nuclear Blast) CD and "The History Of Fear" (Nuclear Blast) DVD releases. "I am very excited to join my friends on their 'The Fear Is Here 2010' tour. Few bands play Metal with the style, heart and finesse as these Metal Commandos. I'm sure that this will be a killer show for many to remember. I am lucky to have some incredible friends who happen to be world class Metallers, so I will tell you about my awesome band line up in the next few days. Its been a long cold Winter here in New Jersey, but my fires have been burning my friends! Come out if you have a Metal Heart and Let It Begin!", commented the guitarist. WebLinks: www.metalmike.net / www.primalfear.de. JAMSYNC MUSIC ANNOUNCES RELEASE SCHEDULE: Press Release / Three new releases from three different genre's of Hard Rock/Heavy Metal are set to be released in April via Jamsync Music. JSM hits the ground running with solid new music from each of these artists: April 20 - Strip Rock Roll by Asphalt Valentine April 27 - 13 Crows by Snake Eyes Seven April 27 - In The City by Mama Kin [Note - Swedish sleaze - watch these guys!!] For those of you planning on attending the Dakota Rock Fest in July, you can catch Asphalt Valentine and Mama Kin performing. Checkout the new Jamsync Music website at: www.jamsyncmusic.com for additional artist information, videos and upcoming releases.   xxxx

 

 

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

SWEDISH IDOL WINNER SET TO CAUSE A STIR: 22 year old Swedish Idol winner Erik Grönwall's new album is coming out in Sweden June 2 - after making many waves during his time performing on the show. Involved in the album songwriting is Paul Stanley (Kiss), Joey Tempest (Europe), Andreas Carlsson (Kiss, Bon Jovi, Pink, Backstreet Boys)(amongst others) and more. Titled Somewhere Between A Rock And A Hard Place, the album will be proceeded by a new single Crash And Burn in April. Sample some of Erik's performances on Idol via: The Show Must Go On - www.youtube.com/watch?v=u_k3EdTFZE8 / Run To The Hills - www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDi8qENjDrQ and 18 & Life (acoustic) - www.youtube.com/watch?v=7r6QlNTEZ9I.   SINGER ALEX BARBIERI LEAVES TANGO DOWN: A note from singer Alex Barbieri: "Dear Friends, It's been an amazing couple of years! It's been an honor to have been the front man in Tango Down. I helped to make one KICK-ASS album (if I do say so myself), played lots of rockin' shows, had incredible experiences, made tons of new friends, and got to meet and hang with many of you, the coolest rock fans I've ever met. And as the world is ever-changing...so must we grow and evolve with it. It's with mixed emotions that I let you know that TD and I have decided to split. I wish the guys much luck and success on their new path! As for me, I'm exploring my options, always writing, and looking forward to spending more time with loved ones. But for those of you who know me, you know the silence never lasts long. I'll be looking forward to announcing my next venture in the not-too-distant future. As for you, all of you, thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping to make my time with TD so memorable and such a success. Your support has helped me see one of my lifelong dreams come true. And as I reach even higher now, I urge you all to do the same. So, in the infamous words of one of my idols, David Coverdale, "Here I Go Again on My Own." Peace and Keep Rockin', -Alex." PS: If you want to stay in touch with me, please friend me at www.myspace.com/emailalex or on my Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1136132486. AVENUE OF ALLIES PRESS RELEASE: Sora track-by-track and new label website: Due to the overwhelming positive response Sora's 2nd album Desire And Truth has been receiving worldwide, guitarist/vocalist Erol Sora has now put into words a brief track-by-track description. Erol Sora's track-by-track song descriptions for Sora - Desire & Truth Taste Of Rock & Roll - One of my favourite tracks and an ideal opener for the album. Heavy bluesy Whitesnake influenced song which is in a sense a tribute to all the great musicians who continue playing/touring regardless of trends or age as it's in their blood and always will be. It also touches on the dark side of this lifestyle as Rock & Roll can be a double edged sword. The Storm Has Just Begun - Heavy uptempo song with a political theme to it which is a reflection of the various conflicts going on in the world and the people in power who make such ill-fated decisions. I'm very proud of this track as I had the main riff in my head for ages but never seemed to find the right arrangement until now. Solo section is quite Blackmore influenced. What's It Gotta Do With You And Me - Another melodic catchy/uptempo track which is about how some people are very easily influenced and put blind faith in others who in reality have less than honourable motives. Could be taken from a relationship, religious or political perspective. I really like the break-down in the middle as it adds a lot of light and shade to the track. Winter - An up-sounding good old fashioned rocker about how things can turn around when you least expect them too. Lyrics are self explanatory. Kind of a heavy KISS/Bad Company feel to it. Lost of wah wah in the solo! When You're Gone - Another one of my favourite tracks which is a ballad about losing a dear friend of mine in England a few years ago. This song came together very naturally as it was written from the heart. I'm very pleased with the harmony vocals in the choruses and how the solo incorporates a few "Brian May" style harmonies. Diamonds In The Wind - Melodic hard rocker about life on the road which in reality is home for many people. Inspired by a particular artist/band though could apply to many people. Schenker influenced in terms of guitar playing. Invitation - Very heavy fast track with a political theme again on how people in power/high positions take advantage of the trusting public in order to get their dirty work done. Probably the heaviest track on the album with a very aggressive solo. Stop Messin' Around - A bit more laid back bluesy type song with tongue in cheek lyrics about the obsession of fame by people who have absolutely no talent and nothing to offer the world. We see more and more of these cases in the media day by day. Main guitar riff is very 1970's style. Rock & Roll Dog - Hard rocking song also with tongue in check lyrics about life/attitudes during the 80's in LA where I lived for about 8 years. Song refers to a fictional character who is a culmination of various people I've come across over the years. Guitar break is very John Sykes influenced. When You Gonna Love Me - A nice way to end the album with a bit of a haunting ballad. This is a song I've had written for a few years but was only now able to record properly. Lyrics are self explanatory. I was also very happy how this song turned out. To coincide with the just released Sora album and the forthcoming albums by Sven Larsson and Sedona, Avenue Of Allies has launched its new website. We are looking forward to your visit on The Avenue: www.avenue-of-allies.com.   AUSSIE ROCKERS ALERT - THE ANGELS UPDATE: Adelaide Lord Mayor to honour classic rock band The Angels in a prestigious official Ceremony in April. Channel Nine Show 'Postcards' features behind the scenes footage about the Symphony Of Angels. The Angels have been invited to a Civic Reception by the Lord Mayor, Michael Harbison, on Friday 16 April at the Queen Adelaide Room at the Adelaide Town Hall on the eve of their Orchestral Collaboration debut. This prestigious honour will be received by the original band (Doc Neeson, Chris Bailey, Buzz Bidstrup, John and Rick Brewster) personally in front of family, friends and lucky fans. A new classical version of 'Take A Long Line' produced by the band has been released to an astounding response. Triple M network picked up the new single the day it was released and listeners and the network consider it a hit! Ugly Phil has never had so many calls and emails about a new song going to air and thinks it will go number 1! Channel Nine's high rating weekend show 'Postcards' aired on Sunday 21st March in Adelaide to one of the shows strongest weekend ratings. The show featured a behind the scenes peek at the recording of the new orchestral release of "Take A Long Line" at Alberts Studios in Sydney and the orchestra rehearsal at The Town Hall in Adelaide and MixMaster studios. With the band originating from Adelaide, there couldn't be a more appropriate city for this one off event. The Festival Theatre in Adelaide will see the Symphony of Angels become a reality for one night only on Saturday April 17th with the 30-piece Adelaide Art Orchestra. This will be an event not to miss ­ Tickets selling fast. *Tickets *On Sale NOW from all Bass outlets. www.bass.net.au Saturday 17th April at The Festival Theatre in Adelaide. Tickets $96.00 For more information log onto: www.spitfiremusic.com.au/soa. KEE MARCELLO GUEST SPOT COMING: This one sounds a bit dogey, but here's the info anyway! "Guitarist Kee Marcello and Italian rapper Caparezza are among the guests on Buena Sorte, the new album from Italian singer and TV/radio presenter Pino Scotto (Vanadium, Fire Trails). Full versions of "Morta è La Città" (featuring Marcello) and "Gli Arbitri Ti Picchiano" (featuring Caparezza) are available thanks to Rocknroll Radio (www.rocknrollradio.it) Buena Sorte, Scotto's first album of new material since 2000's solo effort "Guado" and 2005 Firetrail's "Third Moon", will be released on April 2nd through Valery Records (www.valeryrecords.com). DRUMMER SIMON KIRKE TALKS ABOUT FREE: "WE BECAME OUR OWN WORST ENEMIES.": Drummer Simon Kirke is a founding member of two of the most legendary bands of his generation, Free and Bad Company. In an exclusive interview with Long Live Rock on Blog Talk Radio, he recalled the internal pressures that confronted Free after the worldwide hit "All Right Now" rocketed the band to stardom. The group split within two years of that success. "That was a monster hit for us, and it was a bit of a double-edged sword, really," the drummer recalled. "It kind of took its toll on us. We were suddenly public property, and Island Records wanted us to duplicate the success of 'All Right Now'. Suddenly we were under the spotlight, and we were under the gun to come up with another hit. We became our own worst enemies, I believe. We sort of crumbled under the pressure. There was no letup from that crazy merry-go-round." Drugs played a role in the breakup. "There was quite a lot of ignorance in those days about drug addiction," Kirke said. "Nowadays if someone displays even the remotest fondness for drugs, they're shipped off to rehab very quickly. But [guitarist] Paul Kossoff got very strung out and became very ill, and the only way that he was dealt with was for the band to take a couple of weeks off and have him rest up. So it all got a little bit too much for us, and unfortunately we caved in under the pressure." Kossoff died in 1976 at the age of twenty-five from drug-related heart problems. Kirke and Free singer Paul Rodgers went on to form Bad Company, releasing a string of hits throughout the Seventies and Eighties. The career of Free is chronicled in the new DVD release Free Forever from Eagle Rock Entertainment. The two-disc set includes early live footage of the band at the Beat Club in Germany, as well as footage from Free's performance at the legendary Isle of Wight festival. There are also special features including interviews and multi-angle edits of the Isle of Wight footage. Simon Kirke is set to tour in the UK with the reunited Bad Company this summer. Listen to the interview here: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/03/23/interview-with-simon-kirke-of-free-and-bad-company-from-long-live-rock/. MELODIC BRIEFS: Norwegian progressive hard rock band Slaves To Fashion is going on a mini tour to Germany in the Easter, playing rock clubs in Hamburg, Bremen and Frankfurt. The following dates have been confirmed: Hamburg, Logo, March 29. (support for SubSignal) / Bremen, Meisenfrei, March 31. (with G.L.A.S.S.) / Rüsselsheim, Das Rind, April. 1. (support for SubSignal) WebLinks: www.myspace.com/slavestofashion / www.youtube.com/slavestofashion. Swedish rockers Naughty Boys have a new video available for their song Broken, taken from the latest album Destiny Calls and filmed during the latest show that the band did with Hardcore Superstar. Please Check it out at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=8601ninHdJo. A little Kiss related news - From the Eddie Trunk interview conducted recently with Ace Frehley. The question is whether Ace has talked to Gene/Paul recently, to which Ace answered that Gene called him when he was doing a radio interview 3-4 months ago, and Ace says Gene offered him an opportunity to "rejoin the group as a reality television show"... View: www.youtube.com/watch?v=NaH-VRPMbg4&feature=player_embedded. The Breakdown Room's Gregory Twachtman recently spoke to former Spock's Beard member and current Transatlantic keyboardist/vocalist Neal Morse. Morse talks about how the title track from the latest Transatlantic album, The Whirlwind was conceived and the band's plans for the future. The Breakdown Room's Brian Heaton recently caught up with Fates Warning main man Jim Matheos. The guitarist spoke at length about Fates' Parallels lineup reunion, the band's future plans and what he's been up to the past couple of years. Check it out at: www.breakdownroom.net. TREAT - THE POODLES - THE HEAT: Don't forget these killer tour dates: Treat - The Poodles - The Heat "Sweden Rocks Europe Tour 2010" 23.04.10 ES-Madrid - Rock Kitchen 24.04.10 ES-Pamplona - Sala Gares 25.04.10 ES-Barcelona - Salamandra 27.04.10 D-Muenchen - Backstage 28.04.10 D-Ludwigsburg - Rockfabrik 29.04.10 CH-Pratteln - Z7 30.04.10 D-Burglengenfeld - VA Zentrum 01.05.10 BEL-Vosselaar - Biebob 02.05.10 ITA-Bologna - Sottotetto Sound Club 04.05.10 D-Hamburg - Markthalle 07.05.10 SWE-Silja Cruise - Treat Only ROCK 'N' ROLL MERCENARIES INTERVIEWS WITH ROCK STARS: Celebrating almost a decade of rock writing, author Neil Daniels has compiled a selection of interviews with some of the world's most famous rock and heavy metal artists. Amongst the thirty plus interviews includes Dio talking about his solo career and Heaven & Hell, Nikki Sixx on his controversial book The Heroin Diaries, Magnum vocalist Bob Catley on his fantastic solo work, Thunder on their post-reunion albums, Judas Priest's Glenn Tipton on his solo endeavours, Doro on her role as one of metal's leading ladies and Foreigner on their success in the noughties. Rock 'N' Roll Mercenaries not only supports the big names but up and coming bands too, including the British metal band Nex, the Swedish AOR group Work Of Art and the Canadian melodic rock outfit Sonic X. The varied selection of Interviews compiled includes: Al Atkins, Annihilator, Beyond Fear, Bob Catley, Broken Teeth, Bumblefoot, Dio, Doro, Foreigner, Funeral For A Friend, Glenn Tipton, Heaven's Basement, Honeymoon Suite, Iced Earth, Jimi Jamison, Journey, K.K. Downing, Krokus, Nex, Nikki Sixx, Powerwolf, Primal Fear, Queensrÿche, Rose Hill Drive, Sammy Hagar, Saxon, Scorpions, Sonic X, Stone Gods, Terrarosa,Thunder, Work Of Art and Young Heart Attack. Neil Daniels is the author of books on Judas Priest, Robert Plant, Bon Jovi, Linkin Park and the acclaimed rock writer's anthology All Pens Blazing. Visit www.neildaniels.com and www.amazon.co.uk/Rock-Roll-Mercenaries-Interviews-Stars/dp/0755212096/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1263548018&sr=1-1.

 

 

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

CHICAGO STUDIO WIZ BRYAN MITCHELL DIES: Another untimely death to report with great sadness. This time studio wiz/producer Bryan Mitchell, who most recently has been working with Joe Vana on Mecca II and Frankie Sullivan on new Survivor material. He passed last Thursday after a short but valiantly fought battle with bile duct cancer. Joe comments: "He made Mecca II possible, it is almost done finally after 5 years and it is because he was on the job pushing me to be better, to work harder and to push the envelope. A better friend there is not, and a better man...never. He filled the studio with light, and until I see otherwise it will be dark for sometime." Frankie Sullivan comments: "It is with the deepest regret I write you all to let you know that our friend, my mentor, life coach, partner and dear friend, Bryan Mitchell unexpectedly passed away. I am absolutely in shock and have not felt the pain of this loss since my sister Ellen passed away from cancer eight years ago. Here he is with my son, killer drummer and engineer Ryan Sullivan, both always at work. Bryan coached me back into music full time and kept the vultures off of my back. There is a huge void I feel as I adjust my sails. This will take some time and Bryan will never be forgotten. I have written and instrumental song called "Bryan's Song" that I plan to record this coming weekend in memory of the huge amount of contribution he always put on the table, up front and center, for all to see. This man had no agendas or motives in life other than to do his best work and be at the top of his game at all times. His Viewing lasted eights hours and there was a line around the corner of those he reached out and touched along his journey. Many of them were men in uniform and others friends and associates he had made the usual great impression on along his travels. Godspeed Bryan..." R.I.P. Bryan. SARAYA & BOULEVARD - NEW AT YESTERROCK: Munich based label Yesterrock will re-release two more Melodic Rock classics today. Please find the basic info below: Saraya - Saraya / Led by female power-house vocalist Sandi Saraya, Saraya from New York, USA in 1989 released one of the most admired Hard Rock albums of the time. Today, this record is a sought after collector's item which also includes the hit single "Love Has Taken Its Toll". Next to Sandi Saraya, this band also featured bassist Gary Taylor, guitarist Tony Bruno (Danger Danger) and drummer Chuck Bonfante (Joe Lynn Turner) in the line-up. Thanks to the kind collaboration with Universal Music Germany, this digitally remastered album is available again. So many fans all over the world had to wait for this happy event. Tracklist: 1. Love Has Taken It's Toll, 2. Healing Touch, 3. Get U Ready, 4. Gypsy Child, 5. One Night Away, Elsac Lorraine, 7. Runnin' Out Of Time, 8. Back To The Bullet, 9. Fire To Burn, 10. St. Christopher's Medal, 11. Drop The Bomb. Line-Up: Sandi Sayara (Vocals), Tony Bruno (guitars), Gary Taylor (bass), Chuck Bonfante (drums). Boulevard - Into The Street / The Canadian Rock Band Boulevard (BLVD) was founded in the mid 80s and later released two all-time classic hard rock albums of the AOR genre. After the self-titled debut in 1988 via MCA, their second effort "Into The Street" was released in 1990. This album once again offered typical 80s kind of keyboard driven, melodic AOR on the highest possible level. Today, this record is one of the rarest items of this music genre. Thanks to the kind collaboration with Universal Music Germany, Yesterrock is proud to make this digitally remastered album available again. Tracklist: 01. Talk To Me, 02. Where Is The Love, 03. Lead Me On, 04. Eye Of The Hurricane, 05. Light Of Day, 06. Crazy Life, 07. Rainy Day In London, 08. Where Are You Now, 09. Need You Tonight, 10. Eye To Eye. Line-Up: David Forbes (Vocals), Randy Gould (Guitar), Andrew Johns (Keyboards), Tom Christiansen (Bass), Randall Stoll (Drums), Mark Holden (Saxophone). WebLinks: www.yesterrock.com / www.yesterrock-shop.com.   xx SUNCITY RECORDS - NEW RELEASES: News from Suncity Records / "I hope 2010 is treating everybody well and we have the news that you all have been waiting for!! After a year of hibernation, we are hitting back with another 4 killer new CDs. All which are now available for all to purchase. Artwork for the new CDs are featured below. We are so proud of these new CDs as the quality out ways anything we have done before!! All CD orders will be shipped out the same day. Any feedback on the new releases, or for that fact any of our releases is very much appreciated. Enjoy." You can purchase the CD's by going to - www.suncityrecords.com.   xxxxxx ESCAPE MUSIC'S COLDSPELL ON THE TUBE:   MELODIC BRIEFS: The new Ratt Video - Best Of Me can be seen at: video.aol.com/aolvideo/AOL Music/best-of-me/72910190001. An exclusive interview with It Bites drummer Bob Dalton is the latest download available from the website of South Wales based GTFM Rock Show: gtfmrockshow.wordpress.com. Bon Jovi Live in Montreal gallery and report: www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/Gallery+Jovi+concert/2703698/story.html / www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/Jovi+shakes+moneymaker/2706190/story.html. From the Cheap Trick website: "Bun E. Carlos is not currently the touring drummer for Cheap Trick. Bun E. remains a band member. Everyone is healthy and Cheap Trick will continue to tour as planned." It is believed that Bun has back problems and Rick's son Dax Nielson is filling in. According to the Spanish promoter RM Concert Promotions Cinderella will play Spain June 9 in Madrid. Soul Sign, consisting of Bjorn Englen (Y. Malmsteen, Quiet Riot) on bass, Michael Olivieri (Leatherwolf) on vocals, Michael Taylor on drums and Rob Math (Seal, Macy Gray) on guitar, just completed a short tour of Sweden in support of their upcoming album "Life In The Dark" due out in May. For more info and soundclips visit: www.soulsign.us / www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKFEsL3XDho. Please Vote for Get Gary Schutt on the 2010 Vans Warped Tour! Go to: www.battleofthebands.com/garyschutt. MSG UPDATES - SWEDEN ROCK & RATSHAUSEN: MSG to Sweden Rock: "It is now 30 years since German guitar-hero Michael Schenker released the eponymous debut of the Michael Schenker Group. This made him a third time creator of hard-rock history, after co-founding Scorpions and elevating Brits UFO to superstardom. Now Schenker is about to enter the stage to celebrate the 30th anniversary of "Armed and Ready", "Cry for the Nations" and the rest of the classics on MSG's debut. www.swedenrock.com. Michael Schenker Group will be back live and on 2. July 2010 at the 3rd Ratshausen Open Air 2010. Please also check for Informations and Tickets: www.ratshausen-open-air.de. SEVENTH RIZE SUPPORTING LOU GRAMM IN TEXAS: Seventh Rize has just confirmed they will be supporting Lou Gramm as special guest for 2 arena shows in May. Management, band and crew are extremely excited and honored for this opportunity. Lou hasn't performed in the West Texas market in over 20 years, so there's already a huge buzz surrounding these exclusive dates! Friday May 21, 2010 Horseshoe Arena Midland, TX Saturday May 22, 2010 River Stage Complex San Angelo, TX As band co-founder Sulli states: "Lou's work over the years has influenced Seventh Rize is so many ways. He truly is a Rock-n-Roll Dynasty and has released some of the most important songs in rock history! I've waited a lifetime to have this opportunity and everyone in the Seventh Rize camp can't wait to rock on the same stage with Lou...then get to hear and experience "The Man" in person...Kick Ass!!" When asked which song he's looking forward to hearing live, Sulli responded "All of them...but if I had to pick just one...it would be Midnight Blue. His solo work is simply amazing...much love and respect to Lou Gramm and Bruce Turgon." Be sure to check www.seventhrize.net or www.myspace.com/seventhrize for updates on ticket availability, pricing and any last minute news. KISS PERKS FOR THOSE WHO TAKE THE PLUNGER: Reported by SMH / Mark Hawthorne / "Their famous faces have adorned posters, T-shirts and even lunchboxes for a generation, so it was only a matter of time before rock legends Kiss ended up on a coffee mug. Rumours have circulated for more than a year about a Kiss venture in Melbourne. If all goes to plan, December 31 will see the opening of Kiss CoffeeHouse Melbourne, directly opposite Crown Casino, complete with memorabilia from the band's 35-year rock'n'roll career. The Melbourne man who negotiated the deal with the band, Steve Agi, is calling on investors to buy into his $5 million cafe and family restaurant. Agi is a coffee fanatic who spent more than a year negotiating with founding band members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley for the Australian rights to the Kiss CoffeeHouse business. He plans to spend $1.5 million revamping the vacant Tea House building at 28 Clarendon Street, opposite Crown Metropol hotel and next to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. NewsLink: www.smh.com.au/business/kiss-perks-for-those-who-take-the-plunger-20100322-qrbw.html.

 

 

Monday, March 22, 2010

MelodicRockFest 2 just got a little bit bigger with the addition of an additional opening act for the Sunday show. St Louis based metal band Strikeforce are joining the show to shake the walls from note 1 Sunday. Founder and lead guitarist of Strikeforce, Duke states: "We are very proud to be part of MelodicRockFest 2. We can't wait to hit Chicago and rock our fans. We want to thank Andrew and melodicrock.com for including us in this killer festival, with all these great artists." Strikeforce has toured with Dokken, Joan Jett, 38. Special, Accept, Warrant, Winger, Blue Oyster Cult, Survivor and many others! The band's 2006 release on Retrospect Records is being re-released worldwide on March 23, 2010 by Sweet Sounds/Island Def Jam Music Group. Strikeforce is: Duke Jackson - lead guitar; Joe Council - bass; Jim Burdette - drums; Travis Wyant - lead vocals.   In further MelodicRockFest news, I can confirm that due to another event cancellation, Ted Poley of Danger Danger has confirmed his availability to hang out with fans at the Friday April 30 VIP Concert (featuring sets by Alias, Mecca, Rob Lamothe, Rock Sugar and Goodbye Thrill) . He will hopefully be joined by the other D2 guys as well as Jim Peterik, Crown Of Thorns, Alias, Rob Lamothe, Mecca, Vic Rivera, Eden's Curse, Terry Brock, Talon, Farcry, Terje Eide (On The Rise), Goodbye Thrill, Eric Ragno, Thom Griffin, Gary Brandon (White Sister) and more. VIP tickets are still available and can be purchased via PayPal at: www.melodicrockfest.com or by calling 312-675-8025.   And finally - to those that asked about handing out Event Flyers - here they are - in full Color and B&W. The advert will appear in the Illinois Entertainer from March 30. But if anyone knows a relevant store/outlet that would carry some flyers or post on their door/window, grab either of these and go for it! Right click and "save as" to get full size flyer. Click on graphics to view in full size! Thanks to Stephen Jensen at www.F3Studios.com for the awesome artwork.   xx BOMBAY BLACK IS BACK AND READY TO SHOW SOME LOVE!: Here's some more MRF2 relevant info - from ass-kickers Bombay Black - and their news of their upcoming studio album Love You To Death, due April 10 on Kivel Records. And a free download of a brand new track from the album (a big groove rocker that sounds exactly as we have come to expect from these guys)... Press Release / "We couldn't be happier to kick off the spring with one of our fave Kivel acts. The Arkansas Quartet is back with their latest effort, Love You To Death. Bombay Black has been a band that has grown with each release. Rather then stay stagnant and safe, they have always looked to create something new and fresh. The same way Motley Crue evolved from Shout at The Devil and Theater Of Pain, to Dr Feelgood. Love You To Death is the bands next step in their evolution. With a combination of the new Shine down meets the bombastic sound of Motley Crue, Bombay Black delivers a hard hitting album that is fresh with what is hot today. While still keeping one foot in the hard/melodic rock genre and delivery sing along fist pumping music. This album promises not to disappoint. Love You To Death is will be released April 10th, and you can pre-order your copy from today at www.kivelrecords.com. The band will be performing some of the new material as well as songs from their previous releases at MelodicRockFest 2 May 2nd." One song in particular you can hear right here - Download: Demons Down   Other Upcoming Kivel releases: Goodbye Thrill Keepsakes (CD/DVD) April 6th (After a DVD mastering issue delay this will be released) Bombay Black Love You To Death April 10th Planet Zero TBA May 15th Goodbye Thrill Outrageous NEW Studio Album! May 1st Seven Dayz TBA Early June Release Farcry Optimism Late June Release Talon Rejuvenation Early Sept Release "Look for more releases come the fall from Tango Down, Jace Pawlak and a few other surprises. Also, we will be giving out a FREE sampler CD to people in attendance to Andrew's party this May in Elgin Illinois. This sampler will have songs from ALL the above mentioned bands. Its going to be a fun weekend.....do not miss out!!" LATEST FRONTIERS RECORDS PROMO SPOT:   TOMMY HEART TO FEATURE ON LYRAKA PROJECT: Lyraka has recently signed on the renowned German vocalist, Tommy Heart (Uli Jon Roth, Fair Warning, Soul Doctor) for session work. As reported earlier, Lyraka is a heavy metal opera project that encompasses a set of highlights CDs, as well as a 3-D animated movie. Graham Bonnet (Rainbow, MSG, Alcatrazz) has completed 4 songs for the project, contributing the voices of the musical narrator and Palace Guard. The composer and lead guitarist of the project, Andy DiGelsomina, states: "The acquisition of Tommy Heart has been a major coup for the Lyraka saga. Tommy adds a completely unique voice to go with the character written for him." The first volume of the CD set, Lyraka Volume 1 is set for release in February 2011.

 

 

Friday, March 19, 2010

TYKETTO TO RECORD NEW ALBUM, ORIGINAL LINEUP: Vocalist Danny Vaughn has issued a lengthy update on all things Vaughn and Tyketto. Highlights from his newsletter below: After a number of years languishing in the "deleted" file, my first 2 solo CDs, "Soldiers And Sailors On Riverside" and "Fearless" are going to be re-issued. Michael Arbeeny and I are now the proud owners of both releases and we always felt that they never got heard by enough people because of the limited release time "Fearless", in particular, received. So we have put them both into a double cd package we are calling "Reprise". The link to the purchase page is: www.hardrockhouse.com/Shop.htm. Now, to go along with that, we are planning some live solo shows. December is a long way away still but I was so happy with the 2 Christmas shows that we did at the Cluny and at JB's in 2008, which resulted in the live recording, "The Road Less Travelled", that I wanted to make it into a semi tradition. So this year, I am going to do 6 shows in the 1st two weekends of December. The theme is called "Inspirations and Aspirations" and what we are going to do is a number of songs from my own history, like last time, but we are also going to feature a number of cover songs from artists that were a direct influence upon me over the years. You'll have to wait for the show to find out what they are. The guys are under "double secret probation" not to reveal anything. And to be absolutely certain, I haven't told them yet! It's going to be a very challenging set and before long we may be changing the name of the tour to "Inspirations and Perspirations"! Last time it was an all unplugged show. This time it looks like it's going to be very plugged! Friday, December 3rd, The Rosetta, Belfast, Northern Ireland Saturday, December 4th, Camden Underworld, London Sunday, December 5th, The Corporation, Sheffield Friday, December 10th, JB's, Dudley Saturday, December 11th, The Cluny, Newcastle Sunday, December 12th, The ABC2, Glasgow, Scotland You read it correctly, there is Tyketto news. And new Tyketto news at that! Under cover of darkness, surrounded by secret service agents who were sworn to take a bullet for any and all of us, Brooke, Michael and I got together a couple of weeks ago in Las Vegas. Not only did we have a great time, but we started writing together! These days it isn't possible for us to spend the amount of time together that we used to when it came to writing songs but I'm pleased to say that in a week's time, we came away with 8 new song ideas that we are all very pleased with. So, with that in mind and the future ahead, we are going to start working on a brand new Tyketto album! Complete with the original line up! While Brooke is not in a position to go on the road anymore he is still playing his ass off and came up with some great riffs and song ideas, so he'll be able to record with us at some point this year. It's a long way from being done so that's all you get for now, but as things develop, I will definitely let you know. MAD MAX KEEP LANDING PRIME GIGS: Mad Max is proud to announce that today it was officially announced and confirmed - Mad Max will play the biggest heavy metal festival in the world - W A C K E N 2010! Check out: www.wacken.com. BROKEN TEETH GET PROPS FROM VH1; TAKES PERRIS RECORDS BY STORM: It has been a whirlwind year for Broken Teeth so far in 2010 thanks to the release of their new album Viva La Rock, Fantastico and the acclaim and accolades are continuing to roll in right on the heels of a number of SXSW appearances coming up this week. The Austin quintet's latest album was recently selected as a Pick Of The Week by Jim Florentine on the Stump The Trunk portion of VH1's That Metal Show. Viva La Rock, Fantastico was described on the show as "like old school AC/DC, real high energy, awesome!" The album has also been Perris Records' top seller of 2010 thus far. Of the sales, Perris Records CEO Tom Mathers says he "is very impressed by the worldwide demand for the release. This week there has been a huge spike in the sales after the CD was featured as Jim Florentine's 'Pick Of The Week" on That Metal Show." Visit www.brokenteeth.com or www.myspace.com/brokenteeth for current tour dates! ANOTHER TRIBUTE TO JOURNEY: The Dutch Journey tribute band Another Journey will give their second try-out of this year. This is a very special year for "Another Journey" because the band has a few new members and they sound awesome. Richard Tumansery is the new "Steve Smith" on drums. He has the right groove to beat all the Journey classics. On guitar we have found Jeroen Kleij the dutch "Neal Schon". His guitar playing sounds just like Neal Schon with smooth and rockin`sounds. Longtime keyboardist George Vlaar has grown in his playing and has the sounds and the looks of "Jonathan Cain". Piet Kramer is the "Ross Valory"of the band since 2004. And last but not least the founding member of "Another journey" Ton Vendel on Lead vocals. The dutch Journey fans says."He is the real deal, If journey didn`t found Arnel Pineda they should have took Ton Vendel as their "Steve Perry" sound a like." This year will gonna be their european breakthrough. If you want to check them out go see them on Sunday 21 March 2010. Another Journey will perform a 45 minutes set of journey classics Steve Perry era. Show starts at 19:00. Venue: De rode leeuw Walingsdijk 4 1645 SN Ursem (N-H) Check out their website for more info: www.anotherjourney.nl. MR-X UPDATE: MR-X has been updated, with the following live shows: - Van Halen Staples Center, LA Dec 14, 2007 - Don Dokken Acoustic Solo Milwaukee Jan 31, 2008 MR-X Membership Details. REVIEWS UPDATED: 5 new Reviews online today - Giant, Rick Springfield, Brian Howe, N.O.W. and Jayce Landberg. Read Them Now. Plus, please read some comments about some upcoming changes in the review system.

 

 

Thursday, March 18, 2010

TOM SCHOLZ SUING BOSTON HERALD NEWSPAPER: Tom Scholz from Boston is in the news. From: www.courthousenews.com/2010/03/17/25633.htm. (CN) - Tom Scholz, a founder of the rock band Boston, says the Boston Herald defamed him in an article blaming him for the 2007 suicide of the band's lead singer, Brad Delp. And Scholz claims Herald reporters fabricated quotes from Delp's wife to do so. A week after Delp committed suicide, in March 2007, the Herald published an article under the headline "Pal's Snub Made Delp Do It," according to Scholz's complaint in Suffolk County Court, Boston. He claims Herald columnists Gayle Fee and Laura Raposa - who also are named as defendants - used fabricated quotes from Delp's widow in the article in the Herald's "Inside Track" section. The widow, Micki Delp, denied making two of the statements that were "quoted" in the article, Scholz says. The column reported that Delp said her ex-husband "was driven to despair" by "a dysfunctional professional life that ultimately led to the sensitive frontman's suicide." The 21-page complaint cites this passage from the March 16, 2007 article: "According to Micki Delp, Brad was upset over the lingering bad feelings from the ugly breakup of the band Boston over 20 years ago. Delp continued to work with Scholz and Boston but also gigged with Barry Goudreau, Fran Sheehan and Sib Hashian, former members of the band who had a fierce falling out with Scholz in the early '80s. As a result, he was constantly caught in the middle of the warring factions. The situation was complicated by the fact that Delp's ex-wife, Micki, is the sister of Goudreau's wife." Scholz says the Herald writers fabricated the quotes, and that Micki Delp "in fact, made no such statements". In 2008, Scholz sued Micki Delp and her sister, Connie Goudreau, for defamation; that lawsuit is still pending. According to Delp's testimony in the 2008 lawsuit, Micki Delp told Fee that she did not know why Brad Delp had committed suicide. When the story was published, Micki Delp demanded that Fee retract the statements, but Fee refused, according to the complaint. Scholz says Fee and Raposa also invented quotes from an anonymous "insider" in order "to sensationalize a story about Mr. Delp's suicide in an effort to sell newspapers and to portray Mr. Scholz as an insensitive, heartless and oppressive person." Scholz seeks damages for defamation and emotional distress. He is represented by Howard Cooper and Seth Robbins with Todd & Weld of Boston. The complaint (Adobe Reader or equivalent required): www.courthousenews.com/2010/03/17/BostonDefame.pdf. EXTREME LIVE PROMO VIDEO:   ANOTHER FREE ALBUM DOWNLOAD: The melodic hard rock band Human Cometh´s debut CD Evolution is now available as free download at www.humancometh.com. The band features Morgan Pettersson - Lead Guitar, Kaj Roth - Lead Vocals, Bjorn Pehrson - Bass, Jon Robbins - Drums (Mal Havoc) and Steven Gardner - Backing Vocals. The album is mixed by Ulf Wahlberg, former keyboard player of the popular 80´s band Secret Service. The Evolution artwork is done by Anders Plassgard. Human Cometh is currently writing songs for the follow up that will be out later in 2010.   WHEN SHAKRA, KROKUS, GOTTHARD AND TREEKILLAZ GET TOGETHER: The band Fox from Biel, set up around Mark Fox, who quit Shakra last year, has claimed it's stakes. After intensive months of setting up the Band, long rehearsals and writing songs, the point where things get going is reached. The songs are composed and written and need to be recorded in the studio. First concerts are fixed and it loos like nothing is going to stop the debut of the quartet and possibly start a tour at the same time. The recording should be done by the end of spring, which should still leave enough time to get a great live program together and maybe even fill the batteries at the sunny shores of the lake of Biel. Everyone is having fun doing things themselves once again. The quartet consists of Mark Fox (Vocyls-Shakra), Tony Castell (Bass- Krokus), Reto Hirschi (Drums – Treekillaz) and Franco Fersino (Guitare – Krak (first formation of Gotthard)). You can expect Hard-Rock as we know it from Cinderella, Guns'n'Roses or the Quireboys, but of course each of the four will bring in his own influences. We all can hardly wait to see and hear what will be the result of this interesting get together. WebLink: www.fox-music.ch. ROCKNATION TALKS TO JASON MCMASTER: Rocknation caught up with Jason McMaster on the updates with Broken Teeth. Rocknation: How did you hook Danko Jones up on recording vocals on "Viva La Rock, Fantastico!" and "Big Spender"? Jason: A friend of mine, Alyson Murray, in Scotland sent me some music years ago. She sent me the Darkness and Danko Jones. She may have sent me other stuff, but those were memorable. The Darkness I couldn't sit thru the first song, but when I put Danko in I couldn't stop listening to it, its incredible old school rock n' roll. You all need to check out www.dankojones.com and watch his videos on YouTube. It's super high energy fun rock in the likes of Kiss, AC/DC, Motorhead, and Thin Lizzy with an old punk rock attitude. It's really fresh. I went and saw Danko play with Turbonegro in Austin at Emos and I was blown away. I met him after his set, gave him some CDs, and stayed in touch. When we were tracking vocals on the new record, I was in touch with Danko regularly. I just asked him if he would do some vocals and he said, "Yes, the sooner the better," since he was about to start a tour with Saxon and Motorhead in Europe. He sings on the title track, and another tune called "Big Spender." It's awesome." To read entire interview in Rocknation Issue 14 at this location: www.rocknation.us/issue14. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: Two more CD Showcases added today - FM's comeback album Metropolis and Serpentine's debut A Touch Of Heaven (both March 26, AOR Heaven releases). Check them out.

 

 

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

ROCK SUGAR SHAKES UP CLASSIC ROCK RADIO WITH RELEASE OF DEBUT CD REIMAGINATOR: Los Angeles, CA--Rock Sugar, new metal/pop band who has generated more than 350,000 hits on YouTube, is receiving raves all across the nation about their debut CD release, Reimaginator. The CD has been picked up by classic rock stations and online radio stations nationwide by word-of-mouth from coast to coast, with some stations airing listening parties, playing the entire album from cover-to-cover. Combining the best-loved heavy metal riffs of the 80s with the melodies of the worlds favorite 80s pop classics, Rock Sugar re-imaginated the greatest pop songs of yesterday with heavy metal musicianship and showmanship. Led by lead vocalist Jess Harnell – an Emmy nominee (named by Variety as one of the Top 10 voiceover actors) and one of L.A.s premier studio singers and Chuck Duran, each track on the CD includes amalgamated versions of classics performed metal style - from Don't Stop The Sandman: Don't Stop Believin' (Journey) -Enter Sandman (Metallica); To We Will Kickstart Your Rhapsody: Kickstart My Heart (Motley Crue) - Bohemian Rhapsody And We Will Rock You (Queen); To Crazy Girl: Crazy Train (Ozzy) - Jessie's Girl (Rick Springfield); To Shook Me Like A Prayer: Shook Me All Night Long (Ac/Dc) - Like A Prayer (Madonna); and many more… Heres what some early critics are saying: The first full length release from Rock Sugar is a total treat…if you want something that can make you lauugh, rock out and gaze questioningly at your speakers while you wonder what theyve done this time, then youll want to pick this thing up right quick. – Pollstar When they took the stage, it was a case of men and boys compared to what had gone before. Wow! Now Ive seen some things by some bands in my time, but this was a masterstroke…I think I can safely say that this was one of the best performances at a Firefest ever.—Powerplay Magazine This band played an absolutely storming set, had great fun in doing so, and got the crowd eating out of their hands.—Fireworks Magazine Stations already playing Reimaginator include: KKFM (Colorado Springs, CO); Classic Rock 101 (Vancouver, BC), KDKB (Phoenix, AZ), KFRQ (McAllen, TX), KWHL (Anchorage, AK), Q101 (Chicago, IL); WEGR (Memphis, TN), The Bear (Iron Mountain, MI), The Edge (Holt, MI), The Edge (Palmdale, CA), WNVA (Wise, VA), WXMX (Memphis, TN), WXRX (Rockford, IL), Z104 (Madison, WI), 98 Rock (Baltimore, MD), WYSP (Philadelphia, PA), Classic Rock 95.9 (Logan, UT), The Bear (Ft. Wayne, IN), The Brew (Greenfield, WI), The Brew (Columbus, OH), The Eagle (Jonesboro, AR), The Edge (Holt, MI), The Fox 103.5 (Denver, CO), The Hawk – WLKZ (Gilford, NH), WMMR (Phildelphia, PAA), WWKR (Ludington, MI), WXBH (Louisville, KY), KNAC (online), Hot 607 Internet Radio (online), Rock Hard Radio (online), arfm.com.uk (online); bikerfm.co.uk (online); purrfecttiming.com (online); sundaynightshowdown.com (online); xtrememetalradio.com (online). Reimaginator is based on the concept of a heavy metal band stuck on a deserted island, with a 13-year olds 80s pop collection being the only music keeping them company. Rescued 20 years later, Rock Sugar has now arrived. For more information visit www.rocksugarband.com.   RJ DIO WINNING HIS CANCER BATTLE: Dio Winning Cancer Battle - From: www.contactmusic.com/news.nsf/story/dio-winning-cancer-battle_1135532 Rocker Ronnie James Dio is well on the way to beating stomach cancer - after doctors found his tumour has shrunk considerably. The Rainbow, Black Sabbath and Dio frontman's health crisis prompted his current band Heaven & Hell to scrap European dates last year (09) and he has been in treatment to combat the disease ever since. Now, Dio's wife and manager Wendy has posted an online update on his condition. She writes, "It has been Ronnie's 7th chemo, another cat scan and another endoscopy, and the results are good - the main tumour has shrunk considerably, and our visits to Houston (cancer clinic in Texas) are now every three weeks instead of every two weeks." THE RETURN OF THE STRANGE ANIMAL: A 2 disc CD/DVD release, featuring the original "Strange Animal" album by Gowan will be released via www.gowanstrangeanimal.com its entirety, fully remastered! Track Listing: Cosmetics / Desperate / City of the Angels / Walking On Air / Burning Torches of Hope / Keep the Tension On / Guerilla Soldier / (You're a) Strange Animal / A Criminal Mind. 5.1 DVD Features: Documentary on the making of "Strange Animal" at Tittenhurst Park / Two new songs with videos ("Radical Superjam" and "Tittenhurst Park (I Met the Spirit There)") / A new animated cartoon by Gowan, "The Checkmate" / Four videos from 1985 - "(You're a) Strange Animal," "A Criminal Mind," "Cosmetics," "Guerilla Soldier" / Live video of STYX performing "A Criminal Mind" 10 BANDS THAT SHOULD BE IN THE HOF: This past Sunday we devoted a very special episode of Long Live Rock to the Top 10 Bands That Should Be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, But Aren't. We compiled the list from a straight popular vote from fans online, and then we counted them down and debated the merits and weaknesses of each band. Charlie Brusco of Alliance Artists joined us to give an industry insider's point of view about the Hall of Fame, how it works, and why so many legendary bands are excluded. Charlie manages Styx and Lynyrd Skynyrd, and he's also on the board of the Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland. Here's our Top Ten; 10) Jethro Tull 9) ELP 8) Judas Priest 7) Styx 6) Journey 5) Alice Cooper 4) KISS 3) Deep Purple 2) Yes 1) Rush We also had guest comments from Gregg Rolie of Journey, Dennis Dunaway from the original Alice Cooper group, and Rick Wakeman from Yes. You can listen to it at this link: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/03/16/long-live-rock-the-top-10-bands-that-should-be-in-the-rock-and-roll-hall-of-fame-but-arent/. MELISSA ETHERIDGE GETS FEARLESS: Melissa Etheridge's new single, "Fearless Love," a bold and soaring declaration for living - and loving - to the fullest, has struck a momentous chord as it soars inside the Top 30 this week on the Hot AC chart, and rises to #10 on the Triple A chart. "Fearless Love" is the title track from Fearless Love, Melissa's triumphant new album, arriving April 27th on Island Records. The "Fearless Love" single and album were produced by John Shanks, whose first producer credit was Etheridge's Breakdown, her four-time Grammy-nominated album of 1999. Since then, Shanks has risen to the top ranks of rock and pop producers with credits including Sheryl Crow, Alanis Morissette and Bon Jovi, earning him a 2005 Producer of the Year Grammy Award. Fearless Love expands on the multiple strengths that have made Etheridge one of the most beloved figures in rock. It follows The Awakening, her revealing album of 2007, with a rousing tone at once tough and tender, as only she can be. It is that force of presence which has earned her, among other accolades, the 2007 Academy Award for Best Original Song ("I Need to Wake Up" from the documentary film An Inconvenient Truth) and two Grammy Awards. WebLinks: www.melissaetheridge.com / www.islanddefjam.com/fearlesslove.

 

 

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

AOR HEAVEN NEWS - THE MAY RELEASES: GRAND ILLUSION & DRIVE, SHE SAID: Grand Illusion Brand New World Release date: 21.05.2010 After a four and a half year absence Grand Illusion has decided to reunite and the boys also have a new album with the title, "Brand New World", in the pipeline. The band core of Anders Rydholm, Peter Sundell and Per Svensson are intact and guests on their new album are Gregg Bissonette, Tim Pierce, Danny Jacobs, Roger Ljunggren and Kjell Klaesson. "In 2005 we needed a break and to work with other people to develop as musicians. The core of Grand Illusion started in 1986 (under the name Promotion). A lot of things has happened during the four years since the break up but now we all felt that it was time to get back together, have fun and make some great music. We have never before worked so hard on any album. Just having legends like Gregg on drums and Tim and Danny on guitar solos feels like magic. The band formula with strong melodies and over the top vocals are the same", says Rydholm. In April 2009 Rydholm flew to Los Angeles to record drums with Gregg Bissonette in WoodCliff Studios, Sherman Oaks. During two intense days Rydholm, Bissonette and engineer Frank Rosato recorded the drums and the foundation for the new Grand Illusion record. In the lunch on the second day both were talking about favourite guitar players and one thing led to another and before the lunch had ended, Tim Pierce was booked for a guitar session two days later. Mike Slamer is another guitar legend that guests on this new album. "Roger Ljunggren played the majority of the solos on "View From The Top" and we are very pleased that he once again helps us out with a couple of solos. The band is also very proud to be back on the label where everything started. Georg Siegl and AOR Heaven helped us release our first album (PROMOTION – "Not for sale") back in 1997 and now look forward to join the Metal Heaven team." Track list: 1. Never Find Her Alone (3.53), 2. All Out Of Love (4.12), 3. 157th Breakdown (4.31), 4. Emily (4.47), 5. I'm Alive (4.08), 6. Burning Bed (4.42), 7. Brand New World (4.32), 8. Evil And Pain (4.28), 9. Warning Signs (3.43), 10. Playing With Fire (4.00), 11. Sacrifice (4.10), 12. Forever With You (4.39) Soundfiles in advance: All Out Of Love / Playing With Fire / You Never Find Her Alone. Guests: Gregg Bissonette – drums; Tim Pierce – guitar; Danny Jacobs – guitar; Mike Slamer – guitar, Roger Ljunggren – guitar; Kjell Klaesson - acoustic guitar; Arlene Matza-Jackson - Lyrics. WebLinks: www.grand-illusion.se / www.metalheaven.net.   xx Drive, She Said Dreams Will Come Release date: 21.05.2010 Drive, She Said, the team of Mark Mangold and Al Fritsch has now 6 CD's under their belt. Formed in 1988, and having released their first album on CBS Associated in 1989 it's a fairly typical story: critically acclaimed album, dropped from American label (in the wake of the new grunge movement), same record is well received in Europe and becomes number one on various highly respected UK periodicals, members win top honors in polls and tours UK and various parts of Europe, and go on to release 2 more records for Music For Nations, and then after a bit of a respite, another two records for the Frontiers label (one of them a partial compilation). The band's sound is characterized by Al's stellar vocals, anthemic songs, scathing musicianship and deep tapestries of keys and guitars. Upon being asked to play at Firefest in October of 2009, Mark and Al jumped at the opportunity and put together a stellar band with Jon Bivona (on guitar), Mike Sorrentino (on drums) and Paul Ranieri on bass. Encouraged by the wonderful turnout and generous response at Firefest, the band signed with Georg Siegl at the prestigious Metal Heaven to do a combination compilation and original record. Mark, having written "Fool's Game" (Michael Bolton's first single) and "I Found Someone" (Cher's comeback tune), was happy to record those songs (also played in the band's set) with Jon Bivona doing the guitar honors. Also two new songs were written (one actually on the evening of the Firefest gig in an explosion of appreciation and enthusiasm) called "Dreams Will Come" and the heavier kick ass "Try To Let Go (FukUUp)". Al, who plays every instrument on "Dreams Will Come", got an opportunity to show off his multi talents. "Try To Let Go", is a long overdue duet between the two, and features a trade off between Mark and Al. The band is planning a summer tour and plans to keep the ball rolling in support of it's signature melodic rock approach. Track list: 1 Fools Game, 2 I Found Some One, 3 Dreams Will Come, 4 Try2LetGo (FukUUp), 5 Don't You Know, 6 Drivin' Wheel, 7 Maybe It's Love, 8 Hard Way Home, 9 If This Is Love, 10 Think Of Love, 11 Hard To Hold, 12 Look At What You Got, 13 Hold On (Hands Around Your Heart), 14 Stronger, 15 Real Life, 16 Love Has No Pride, 17 Always And Forever (Godz). Soundfiles in advance: Fools Game / Dreams Will Come / I Found Someone.   FRONTIERS PREMIERE'S NEW MURDER OF MY SWEET VIDEO:   FM ANNOUNCE UK TOUR DATES: Brit rockers FM are very pleased to announce the following live dates in support of their new album Metropolis, out March 29th. Tickets on sale from 09:00h GMT Wednesday 17th March for - May 2010 20 Sheffield O2 Academy2 0844 477 2000 21 Glasgow Cathouse 0871 230 7131 22 Belfast Spring & Airbrake 003531 456 5569 23 Birmingham O2 Academy2 0844 477 2000 July 2010 08 Cardiff Millennium Plaza 02920 230130 09 London Islington O2 Academy 0844 477 2000 Special guests on these dates to be announced soon. Get your copy of new album Metropolis before the official release date! Copies pre-ordered from www.fmofficial.com will be dispatched 19th March! Listen to Metropolis preview clips on the FM Media page here: www.fmofficial.com/fmofficial/media.htm.   xx TARA'S SECRET SECURE EUROPEAN DISTRIBUTION: UK rockers Tara's Secret enjoy a double celebration this week as they have signed a European distribution contract for their 3rd album Vertigo, released through Black Cat Music, with rock music specialist store Music Buy Mail (www.musicbuymail.eu), based in Germany. The band has also been included on the bill for Z Rock 2010 at JBs in Dudley on 2nd October. In light of this, the band are offering a signed copy of both "Vertigo," their 2006 album "Tomorrow The World" and a signed band picture, as a prize for the clever chap or chappess who answer the following question: Who will "The Rain Of Love" fall down upon ? Clues can be found in the soundclips at the MelodicRock.com Tara's Secret Vertigo showcase, or at www.taras-secret.com. Email replies to info@taras-secret.com - subject - MR Vertigo Competition. The band can also be caught live this year: 16 Apr - Derby - Sitwell Rock Club, Babington Lane 12 May - Notts - Diamond Rock Club, Sutton in Ashfield 19 May - Notts - MFN Bikers Club, Ilkeston 11 Jul - Notts - Diamond Rock Club, Sutton in Ashfield 06 Aug - Bilston - The Robin 2, Wolverhampton 10 Sep - Coalville - The Vic Bikers Club 02 Oct - Dudley JBs, Z Rock Festival 2010 21 Jan - Bilston - The Robin 2, Wolverhampton SWEDISH ROCK BAND VAINS OF JENNA SEEK NEW FRONT MAN VOCALIST: In a statement to management and Vains Of Jenna - lead singer Lizzy DeVine has officially left the group. "The last 5 years with this band has been the best years of my life. It's with a tear in my eye, but a whole lot of love and respect for the band, manager, endorsers and fans all over the world, I announce that I'm no longer the lead singer/front man of Vains Of Jenna. It's been a crazy ride. And I've loved every second of it. But now I must move on and let the band grow. I've done more with this band than I could ever have dreamed of but now it's time for new adventures! I love all of you." Lizzy DeVine/ Vains Of Jenna comprised of lead guitarist and main song writer Nicki Kin (Age 23), bassist JP White (26) and drummer Jacki Stone (23) embrace this change with the following statement. "We have always been a family and have supported each other through the good times and the bad. Today we support and respect Lizzy's choice. We wish him all the best in the future and we part ways as friends. To our fans and friends everywhere, we are as shocked at this development as the rest of you. But we are real, committed to our music and will go forward. We have been honored by all of your support over the years and cannot express enough our regrets to bring this news. But this is reality and we accept the challenge." Vains Of Jenna formed in 2005 in Falkenberg Sweden. They have been featured internationally on TV and radio, appeared in hundreds of print articles and performed over 400 shows in a dozen countries. The band was originally signed by MTV star Bam Margera (Jackass/Viva La Bam) to Filthy Note/Universal in 2006. Soon followed major North America tours with Poison, Ratt & GWAR in 2007. They returned to Europe in 2008 and toured Italy, England & Sweden which included the Mega Festival Sweden Rock. In the summer of 2009 the band was back in Los Angeles to release "The Art of Telling Lies" (RLS/Raw Noize) which received 5 star reviews around the globe. Since inception Vains Of Jenna have continuously drawn comparisons to legendary groups like Aerosmith, Guns N' Roses and Hanoi Rocks. "We are seeking a young, hungry, aggressive, dedicated, fresh face and voice to front our band. Someone who is one of us. If you think you're the guy for the job – then step to the plate now." Nicki, JP & Jacki. Music/video samples, photos, bio and more are welcome. All inquiries should be directed to www.myspace.com/vainsofjenna. The show must go on! STRYPER DELAY OZ TOUR DATES: Stryper's Australian tour dates have been postponed until August 2010: www.stryper.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=950. ROSS HALFIN INTERVIEWED: Greek-based Rockpages Web Magazine conducted recently an exclusive interview with legendary photographer Ross Halfin. Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: You started working in a period when the "Punk" movement was at an all-time high in England. I remember seeing your name at the bottom of photos by such artists as Clash and The Sex Pistols. How different was the whole atmosphere in a punk show compared to a rock one, from a photographer's point of view? Ross Halfin: Punk was the most over rated thing ever! No light show, shitty venues, people spitting…it was awful! I welcomed going to shoot…say Thin Lizzy or UFO over any Punk Band. Rockpages.gr: You have shot many covers for Kerrang. Which one stands in your mind as being the most representative of your work and why? Ross Halfin: Maybe an early Iron Maiden one of Steve Harris. The rest are rubbish looking at them now. Rockpages.gr: Through the years, you have become a regular photographer of bands like Iron Maiden and Metallica (just to name a couple of them). Was it gratifying for you to have your work recognized by established acts or it was business as usual? Ross Halfin: Well I knew Iron Maiden when they started out playing pubs. Metallica wanted me or Lars did purely because I shot Iron Maiden so when I knew both of them they were not established. Read The Full Interview on: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=3710&type=1&lang=EN. CD SHOWCASE UPDATE: CD Showcase has been updated with 2 new albums - Sora's Desire And Truth (out now, Avenue Of Allies Music) and Silent Call's Greed (March 26, Escape Music). Check them out now. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following two new features: - Montana Screams - Mean World Syndrome (Feature Album) - MTM Music - Rock Ballads Vol. 6 (Feature Compilation) Plus the following new Video Clips: Call - Everywhere I Go, Elliot Easton - Like A Wheel, McAuley Schenker Group - Anytime and a Le Roux Triple-Play: Carrie's Gone, Lifeline and Nobody Said It Was Easy. MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Monday, March 15, 2010

MelodicRockFest 2 is just over 6 weeks away, so time for a few updates regarding the festival. - Kevin Chalfant has requested we do something special with his and pal Jimi Jamison's sets. So it will be something like this: a combined performance, with no break between set, with Jimi performing with Kevin's backing band. Kevin's set will now be billed as the Voices Of Rock Radio and will include special guest Derek St. Holmes (Ted Nugent Band) and maybe another guest. Plus Jimi of course, before Jimi takes center stage for his own solo material. - Tickets arrive back from the printer tomorrow, so will be sent out airmail to all this week! Expect delivery within 5-10 days. - Refunds: I am no longer refunding any VIP weekend tickets due to the W.E.T. cancellation. The festival itself is going on without any further alteration and I appreciate the support on this issue. - Sponsors: Despite several weeks of looking for an official event sponsor, I have come up empty. It has been impossibly hard to get any business (large or small) to support the show and even the US brewing companies seem to have dry wells. A cash sponsor was one of the vital issues that took away from MRF1, it would be great to have that backing this time around, given the caliber of the lineup. I am very grateful to a few individuals that have helped sponsor the event out of passion for this scene, but it would be great to have a company on board also. If anyone has any connections to any forward sighted companies that would like to be involved in the show, please let me know. - Radio Commercial: Thanks to the always brilliant ARfm, there is now a 1 minute audio commercial for the event, which I hope to get to radio soon. But you can also download it yourself and help spread the word around. A YouTube clip of the advert will be online this week. Download Here. - Local advertising in the Chicago area will be taking place from next week, but if anyone out there can print and distribute flyers, please contact me. - A brand new updated Press Release is also available for the show at the official website. - On Friday night: I'm hearing Rob Lamothe has a very special acoustic set for eager fans. - Finally: a Credit Card hotline for ticket orders is now in place for those that don't have Paypal. Please call Revolution Tickets at: (USA) 312-675-8025.

 

 

Monday, March 15, 2010

R.I.P. GARRY SHARPE YOUNG: Sad news over the weekend once more, as NZ based Journalist and writer Garry Sharpe Young died suddenly from a brain aneurism. Full details can be found here: R.I.P. Garry. HEAVEN'S BASEMENT ON AIR: Heaven's Basement gave their first radio interview since the departure of frontman Richie Hevanz on last week's GTFM Rock Show. The interview is now available to download at: gtfmrockshow.wordpress.com. YET MORE POWER QUEST LINE-UP CHANGES: Power Quest has parted ways with front man Pete Morten and guitarist Ben Randall due to musical differences. Needless to say the split was amicable and everyone in the PQ family wishes Pete and Ben all the very best in their respective musical endeavours. A new vocalist has already been found and the band is hard at work rehearsing new material with him. In the meantime, Power Quest is looking for a new guitarist to join the line up. Dedication, commitment and drive are essential as is the ability and desire to tour and rehearse (one weekend per month in the UK) as required. Experience is obviously an advantage but is by no means essential. So if you are a guitarist familiar with Power Quest and influenced by melodic metal and hard rock then here's what you have to do to apply: Email stevekeys@power-quest.co.uk with your biography, contact details and links to audio and video examples of your playing both in the studio and in the live arena. Those who are shortlisted will be invited to attend an audition in Derby (UK) in late April/early May 2010. The successful candidate will of course be joining the band to record the new album in Italy in July/August this year. Please note no applications will be considered after 10th April.

 

 

Saturday, March 13, 2010

I'm sorry that I even have to bother with this, but a retailer/site sponsor has gone on public record with a business complaint, so I need to set the record straight for anyone who sees this and wonders what on earth it is about. First - the statement. This message was sent out last night on the CD Inzane mailing list. It was written by the business owner Zane in regards to his attempts to get me to agree to letting his company set up merch tables at my upcoming MelodicRockFest event. Zane states: "MELODIC ROCK II FESTIVAL A "NO GO"!!! (Andrew McNeice & www.melodicrock.com): Over the last 6 weeks, we've received many calls and now have to reveil the bad news. Many inquiries over our sponsoring Andrew McNeice and his site, www.melodicrock.com have come thru, asking if we can bring certain CDs, DVDs to the show and the excitement about meeting your CDINZANE staff at the show. Well to finally fill everyone in, it is a disappointing "NO, CDINZANE is not allowed as a vendor to the festival, we've not been invited and when asked if we can have a few tables, Andrew has told Zane NO!!!" This is very disappointing as the show is in our backyard and many of you we've not met at the other killer festivals like www.chicagopowerfest.com or www.propowerusa.com or the www.bravewords.com festivals. While CDINZANE.com has given Andrew McNeice thousands of dollars in investment to keep his site running and "looking good" over the past 5 years, we know now Andrew has alternatives in acceptance of our sponsorship dollars, but no intention of "Unionship in metal" as a real partner. Our entire staff is saddened about this greed. Please drop us a line and let us know if you think we should continue advertising thru his site..." Now the facts: Zane asked several times over the past few months to set up his mobile CD retail business at MRF2. Unfortunately for Zane, I had to decline this request as I already had organized a partnership with another business to retail CDs myself on the day at my event. Zane was notified February 12. I did not hear back from him on this matter. Two other retail businesses also asked if they could be involved at the show and I declined those requests also. Both businesses - Impulse Music and Nightmare Records replied immediately, appreciated what I was going to do and wished me every success for the event. Very classy. Still no word from CD Inzane until today – a month later, when the newsletter above was sent out to all and sundry. No class here whatsoever. I take issue with a couple of the comments in this piece of self-serving PR. First - CD Inzane's claim of "investing thousands of dollars to help keep this site running". Well, not really… This company has not invested one cent into MelodicRock.com without getting something back for it. What they have done is taken out paid advertising in the form of banner ads - which in turn alert people to their store and help earn them money. After all, that's the whole point – for them and everyone else advertising. Zane's comment here makes it sound as if his company has gone out of their way to invest in MR.com solely for my own benefit. The truth is that Zane has consistently paid invoices late and complained about almost every payment, often claiming how other sites are cheaper to advertise with and give him better results, not to mention also constantly dictated the positioning of the banner. As for my "greed" - I am going to sell merch at my MRF show to benefit the long term future of this site. Should that not be the way it should be? I made no mention of any cost to Inzane for participating at my event, as I wasn't interested in his involvement. How have I been greedy? And the excitement of fans at the event meeting the "CD Inzane staff", had I known there was such excitement, I could have booked them as the opening act and sold some tickets to these eager fans. This is not the first stunt CD Inzane has pulled on me. I removed his advertising for a week or so last year when I found he was selling the artist promo copies he demanded of MRCD5 on the CD Inzane website - undercutting my own retail price here. A real show of "unionship in metal" there! But it will be his last stunt. He has apparently asked his reader base whether he should continue "supporting" my site. Well Zane, I made that decision for you first thing this morning when I saw your comments. CD Inzane advertising has been pulled from MR.com and it will be the last time I deal with him or his company. Sadly, this is not the end of it. One previously loyal customer of CD Inzane (Max) posted his ridiculous rant on my Noticeboard. It was after all, now a public domain statement. Here is the message sent to Max after Zane saw he posted it: "I think you know the answer to anymore purchases from our database. Apparently, you feel the need after how kind we've been to you to be the "center informant" to someone we kindly stated our company is having a problem with. I do not understand why you've done this when you have seemed a satisfied customer with multiple purchases over the years. In any case, as we've made the decision not to work with Andrew due to obvious issues, ego and super-fan stardome he has, we now must delete your account as well with our store. We ask your respect to stay clear of our tables and staff at future shows as well. With thousands in investment in business and between two business that should have seperated a long time ago, it was really not expected of you to be the "center of the attention" to the MR.com forum; something I got multiple calls on starting at noon today. I've over 19-pages of response with only 23% stating "continue advertising". It is simple and MR.com is one of only 40+ sites we've banners either purchased for or donated placed by. Sorry Max, but I did not think that someone like you from Sacramento would stab someone who's not done anything to you, and one of whom we see every year visiting our merch booth in Atlanta. We wish you well but will not work with you again in the future." So it seems Zane is deleting customers from his database if you voice support for this site. I will no longer support his company via any kind of advertising here, but asking my readers to boycott his company is just ridiculous and something I would never do. If you are happy with them, good luck to you! If not...may I suggest any of the other wonderful advertisers featured on this site - none of which I have ever had any issues with. Sorry for this long winded explanation, but sometimes you just have to stand up for what is right and set the record straight. Thanks for reading...

 

 

Friday, March 12, 2010

FRONTIERS CRASH INTO A WILD GENERATION OF SLEAZE: Frontiers Records signs Sweden Sleaze Rock's finest Crashdïet for the release of the band's third album. Generation Wild out on April 23 in Europe (excluding Scandinavia) Crashdïet was born in a new millennium where the rock n roll scene had almost died out. No looks, no tricks, no flash and balls and definitely a lack of big songs. Inspired by bands like Skid Row, Guns ´N Roses, Kiss and W.A.S.P, Crashdïet brought back the big shows, the rough-edge sleaze anthems and the rawness of an unpredictable and dangerous band. Discovered by Universal Music in 2004 after making a lot of noise down in the gutter of the Swedish underground, Crashdïet became the first Sleaze Rock act to be signed directly to a major record company in over 10 years. The debut album "Rest in Sleaze" entered the Swedish national album chart at position No. 12. The singles and videos like "Riot In Everyone", "It's A Miracle", and gold selling "Breakin The Chainz" were played frequently on radio and television. Crashdïet embarked on a Swedish tour in the fall of 2005 to support the new album and they were on the verge of the big breakthrough when tragedy struck: on January 20th of 2006 singer Dave Lepard was found dead in his apartment after committing suicide. The surviving members were devastated and decided to break up the band shortly after. But on demand of the fans the three ex members decided to start up the band and put out ads for a singer. In December 2006 the band confirmed the rumours about the newly found singer Olliver. The band started to work on their second album "The Unattractive Revolution" that was released in October 2007. Tours followed throughout Europe the rest of the year and up until the summer of 2008. After that the band parted ways with Olliver. In June of 2009 Crashdïet revealed Stockholm-based Simon Cruz as the new frontman of the band. This is said to be the most solid line up ever! The third album "Generation Wild" has been produced by the hit maker producing team RamPac and mixed by Tobias Lindell (Mustasch, Sister Sin) and marks the start of the cooperation with Frontiers Records, who will handle the release in Europe, excluding Scandinavia. "We are very happy about the new deal with Frontiers.  They are definitely the best label for the glam/sleaze genre in the world", says bassist Peter London. "Generation Wild" includes the following tracks: Armageddon; So Alive; Generation Wild; Rebel; Save Her; Down With the Dust; Native Nature; Chemical; Bound to Fall; Beautiful Pain. Crashdïet are: Martin Sweet – Guitar Simon Cruz – Vocal Peter London – Bass Eric Young – Drums. Euro Tour dates: 15/04 Jailbreak, Rome [ITA] 16/04 Sottotetto, Roxx Zone Glam Party, Bologna [ITA] 17/04 Rock'n'roll Arena - Glammattak, Novara [ITA] 18/04 Palazzetto dello Sport di Albiana (TN) - Trento [ITA] 23/04 Xigas Glam Fest, Thessaloniki [GR] 24/04 Xigas Glam Fest, Athens [GR] Weblinks: www.crashdiet.org / www.myspace.com/realcrashdiet / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx GET YOUR CHICKENFOOT BUZZ ON "LIVE": Eagle Rock Entertainment is pleased to announce the April 26th UK Blu-ray and DVD release of Chickenfoot Get Your Buzz On "Live" - one of the most highly anticipated live rock 'n' roll concert experiences of the year. The Blu-ray & DVD will be released in America on April 20th by EMI America. Filmed with 16 hi-definition cameras over three sold out concerts, Chickenfoot: Get Your Buzz On "Live" offers fans an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience four rock'n'roll legends sharing the stage and blowing the roof off with their explosive musicianship and dynamic onstage chemistry. Chickenfoot, who won Best New Band of 2009 at the UK's prestigious Classic Rock Magazine Awards, and originally formed in 2008, features vocalist Sammy Hagar (ex-Van Halen, Montrose), bassist Michael Anthony (ex-Van Halen), drummer Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers) and guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani. The band's self-titled debut album, released in heat sensitive packaging, was released to critical acclaim in June 2009, and has since been certified gold in both America and Canada with sales in excess of 750,000 copies. During the same year, the band embarked on a small North American club tour, performed in Europe in the summer including the Montreux Festival and returned to North America to perform two sold out tours, one in the summer, followed by another in the fall. During the summer of 2009, the electrifying, hi-energy concert performances were filmed in hi-definition by award-winning director Daniel E. Catullo III (Rush, Creed, Godsmack, Smashing Pumpkins) and mixed in DTS 5.1 Surround Sound by Mike Fraser. The Blu-ray and DVD features one full concert shot at the Dodge Theater in Phoenix, Arizona on September 23rd, 2009, plus live segments from shows at the Tabernacle in Atlanta, Georgia and The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio. The Blu-ray and DVD editions of this exciting concert are jam-packed with exclusive, never-before-seen backstage footage, rare interviews, extra performance footage, photo gallery and hilarious segments featuring a host of surprise special guests including Adam Corolla, Bob Weir and Christopher Guest alias "Nigel Tufnel" from the hit movie Spinal Tap. Track Listing: 1. Avenida Revolution 2. Sexy Little Thing 3. Soap On A Rope 4. My Kinda Girl 5. Down The Drain 6. Bitten By The Wolf 7. Oh Yeah 8. Learnin' To Fall 9. Get It Up 10. Turnin' Left 11. Future In The Past 12. Bad Motor Scooter 13. My Generation. Main Concert: Running Time: 97 minutes (approx) Bonus Features: Documentary Band Interviews Running time: 60 minutes (approx) Photo Gallery   xx EDEN'S CURSE WORKING ON TRINITY: Eden's Curse have entered Higher Studios in Tewkesbury, England, to begin recording the drums for their studio album Trinity. The band aim to complete Trinity around the Summertime, under the tutelage of long term producer Dennis Ward, with October being pencilled in for a release date. Amongst the tracks being recorded are Saints Of Tomorrow, No Holy Man, Can't Fool The Devil, Jerusalem Sleeps and a very special cover tune from one of the groups biggest influences. For further information visit the bands official website at: www.edenscurse.com. MEAT LOAF SIGNS TO LOUD & PROUD FOR USA: New York, NY: Roadrunner Records/Loud & Proud Records is pleased to announce the signing of Meat Loaf to the label. Meat Loaf has been a towering monument on the musical landscape for the past 35 years and his new deal with Roadrunner/Loud & Proud will allow him to retain his post as the pre-eminent voice in rock music and beyond. His new album, Hang Cool Teddy Bear, whose title was taken from a line in Beyond the Valley of the Dolls, is 13 tracks of classic Meat Loaf, primed and ready for the 21st century. More than four decades into his career, the man and his voice are as big, bold and relevant as ever. The album features a hot producer, a slew of impressive guest appearances, ranging from guitar god Steve Vai to actor Hugh Laurie, and of course, Meat Loaf's signature pipes! "I wanted it big, I wanted it dramatic, I wanted a rock record," Meat Loaf said about the new album. "Yes, it sounds like a Meat Loaf record. But it sounds different too: it sounds new, it sounds fresh. It speaks to you in a different way." For Hang Cool Teddy Bear, Meat Loaf's creativity was sparked by working with a new collaborator, producer Rob Cavallo (Green Day, My Chemical Romance, Paramore, Fleetwood Mac), a lifelong Meat Loaf fan who has worked with some of the most explosive names in rock music and who helped to foster a modern and contemporary vibe for the album. Of their relationship, Meat Loaf said, "Rob is the number one rock producer in the world because he leaves his ego out of the equation and gives an artist his voice, making it sound better than the artist could even imagine." Regarding Roadrunner/Loud & Proud, Meat Loaf is excited about his new label digs, saying, "In my bones, I've always been a rocker and I finally found a home that rocks." Loud & Proud President Tom Lipsky also commented on the signing, saying "Meat Loaf has once again created a masterpiece and we are excited and proud to be his new label partner." Thematically, like most Meat Loaf albums, Hang Cool Teddy Bear has a larger concept and was inspired by a short story written by Los Angeles screenwriter, director and longtime Meat Loaf friend Kilian Kerwin. "It's the story of a soldier," revealed Meat Loaf. "He's been in battle and he's lying face down on the ground. He can't move, but he turns his head and starts to see blood run across the ground, and so he thinks he's going to die. They always say you see your life flash backward when you're about to die. But his life flashes forward - into what possibly could happen. He sees what his life could be: the good and the bad. The songs are the different scenarios he finds himself in. It's not always the same time or the same place, but it's always the same woman. But I don't want to give too much away. I want people to work it out for themselves." Hang Cool Teddy Bear also features a stellar array of big-name guests, including Steve Vai (who appears on 'Love is Not Real'), former Queen guitarist Brian May (who appears on 'Song of Madness' and 'Love is Not Real'), American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi (who co-wrote and sings on 'If I Can't Have You') and Hollywood star Jack Black, who duets with Meat Loaf on 'Like a Rose.' Additionally, English actor Hugh Laurie of TV's House fame has a cameo on the album, playing piano on 'If I Can't Have You.' The pair met after Meat Loaf guested on Laurie's hit series and discovered the star was a classically trained pianist. For Hang Cool Teddy Bear, the singer enlisted elite musicians, including Darkness frontman Justin Hawkins, who co-wrote two songs for the album, guitarists Tim Pierce, Paul Crook and Randy Flowers, legendary bass players Chris Chaney and Kasim Sulton, genius keyboardist Jamie Mulhoberac and the world's greatest rock drummer, John Micelli. Hang Cool Teddy Bear is due out May 11 in the US. While Meat Loaf certainly requires no introduction, he burst onto the world music stage in 1977, with his landmark release, Bat Out Of Hell, which transformed him from a stage actor into an American rock 'n' roll icon, as the album sold more than 43 million copies worldwide and is the 3rd biggest selling record of all time. Following Bat Out Of Hell with further masterpieces like 1981's Dead Ringer, 1984's Bad Attitude and the Bat Out Of Hell sequels, 1993's Bat Out Of Hell II: Back Into Hell and 2006's Bat Out Of Hell III: The Monster is Loose proves what Rob Cavallo believes about Meat Loaf: that he has more rock 'n' roll in his bones than anyone he's ever met.   xx MELODIC BRIEFS: Thnaks to information from Tomas at Europe Supportersclub of Sweden www.lebaronboys.com - I'm told the new John Norum solo album is titled Playyard Blues and features 10 tracks (eight in bluesy vein, sung by Norum himself and two hard rock numbers featuring Leif Sundin on vocals). Pink Floyd win their suit against EMI - news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/8561963.stm. CASANOVA'S 20TH ANNIVERSARY - DEBUT REISSUE IN APRIL: Though Casanova may not have become a household name in the 90's hard rock scene it wasn't for a lack of great songs and drive to succeed. Their roots began in such classic and esteemed German hard rock/heavy metal bands such as Mad Max and Warlock. Formed in 1990 when Warlock super-producer, Henry Staroste, brought Michael Voss and Michael Eurich together to craft the debut album, Casanova, that took the hard rock world by storm. Well, the hard rock world outside of the USA that is. Touring Europe in support of the album, which eventually sold 170,000 copies, only helped to establish and strengthen their rapidly increasing fan base. A devout fan base that remains by their side, even now, 20 years later. Casanova has been out of print for years and was never actually released in the United States until now. With supplies diminishing over the years, the price of obtaining an original copy of Casanova has skyrocketed to prices exceeding the $100 mark. So with it being the band's 20th anniversary we are extremely excited to present a new deluxe edition of the album which includes not only remastered audio, but seven (7) bonus tracks. This updated release of Casanova is the ultimate edition and more importantly a celebration of the classic hard rock sounds of Casanova! Casanova (Deluxe Edition) Street Date: 4/13/2010 Track List: 01 Don't Talk About Love 02 Burning Love 03 Living A Lie 04 The Girl Is Mine 05 Rome Burns 06 Love Lies 07 Bang Bang 08 Sticky Sweet 09 Back To The Wall 10 Ride The Wings Of Freedom 11 Hollywood Angels 12 Heaven Can Wait (Bonus Tracks) 13 Hot Legs 14 Written In My Heart 15 Hollywood Angels (Acoustic) 16 Love Lies (Acoustic) 17 Don't Talk About Love (Live) 18 Burning Love (Live) 19 Ride The Wings Of Freedom (Live). Free Shipping within the United States for all Pre-Orders placed before album street date of 4/13/2010. METAL BLADE SIGNS RETURN TO EARTH: Metal Blade Records is pleased to announce the signing of Jersey-based aggressive hard rock outfit Return To Earth featuring the talents of Ron Scalzo, Brett Aveni, and Chris Pennie (current drummer of Coheed & Cambria and former drummer of The Dillinger Escape Plan). Return To Earth has already finished writing and recording Automata, the follow-up to the band's 2007 debut Captains of Industry, and is set to release the behemoth this summer. Return To Earth comments; "After self-releasing our first album, Captains of Industry, and discovering a heavier, more intense sound during the recording sessions for Automata, the three of us agreed that the scope of the band's vision would benefit from the support of a bigger, like-minded record label - one that had similar musical influences and an appreciation for our DIY 'studio geek' mentality. Also, a label we felt we could trust and depend upon to promote our songs properly. Metal Blade was always at the top of our very short wish list of potential partners, and so we were thrilled to discover that Brian Slagel and Metal Blade were as enamored with us as we were with them. Signing with Metal Blade is an affirmation of our hard work, and we are psyched to have them in our corner for the release of Automata!" Brian Slagel adds; "I have been a big fan of Chris Pennie for a long time and we all at Metal Blade are very excited to work with Chris and the rest of Return To Earth." Return To Earth's music is highlighted by the awe-inspiring precision of Pennie's backbeat, Aveni's catchy rock hooks, and Scalzo's sing-and-scream, harmony-heavy vocals. Explains Scalzo, "We're all passionate about music, and have a shared affinity for classic metal & modern-day rock with lush production. We're three guys with three different perspectives but you can hear all those influences in our own tunes, loud & clear." As with all great bands, when Return To Earth make music together, the disparate influences and personalities coalesce into a single vision. Adds Scalzo, "Most of all, we each draw inspiration from the other guys' strengths - whether a riff, a rhythm line, or a vocal hook - it doesn't take much to ignite our respective fires, and that usually culminates in something heavy, different, and ultimately, inspirational. We're all really proud of this record." Check out the following teaser trailer that offers a glimpse into the madness that is Return To Earth and stay tuned to MetalBlade.tv and Return To Earth's sites for more details on release date, MP3's, and videos. Fans can head over to Bald Freak Music's YouTube page HERE to check out footage of the band in the studio as well as the first sneak peak trailer released by Return To Earth. Follow the band at the following sites: www.returntoearthmusic.com / www.myspace.com/returntoearththeband. THE SOULS OF WE - LIVE: George Lynch's Souls Of We are on tour. Check out this YouTube Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkSpmYNj3rY. And these tour dates: 03/15/10 Tucson, Az The Rock 03/17/10 Austin, Tx Texas Rockfest 03/19/10 Corpus Christi, Tx Zeros Hardrock Club 03/20/10 San Antonio, Tx Back Stage Livs Sa 03/21/10 Houston, Tx Ufe Rock Hall 03/23/10 Mission, Tx Smokin Aces 03/27/10 Santa Ana, Ca Malones WebLinks: www.soulsofwe.com. MANTICORA EUROPEAN TOUR 2010: It is our pleasure to present to you the first dates of the Manticora European tour 2010. The tour is presented/sponsored by Intromental & Rock Hard Germany!! Support band on the tour is Norway's Divided Multitude. September: Friday 24/9: Markthalle, Hamburg, Germany October: Friday 01: Bastard Club, Osnabrück, Germany Monday 04: Nouveau Casino, Paris, France Monday 11: Spinnerei, Traun, Austria Tuesday 12: Reigen, Wien, Austria Wednesday 13: Randal Club, Bratislava, Slovakia Thursday 14: Crazy Mama, Budapest, Hungary Friday 29: The Rock, Copenhagen, Denmark Further shows will be announced soon. Check out local ticket offices or visit www.metaltix.com / www.manticora.dk / www.myspace.com/manticorarocks. APOLOGIES AGAIN: MR-X update will be online Monday. And another big set of Reviews is due next week also. Both should have been online today, but i've been a bit under the weather this week and haven't got a whole bunch done! Release Dates update coming and for those asking after the 2009 MelRock Awards - I haven't even started them yet :( - all spare time has been focused on getting MelodicRockFest ready - an event which is vitally important to the long term plans for MelodicRock.com.

 

 

Thursday, March 11, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE THE NEW EXTREME LIVE DVD AND CD RECORDED AUGUST 8 2009 IN BOSTON: Napoli, March 2010 – Reunited Massachusetts hard rockers Extreme will release the Take Us Alive live 2CD and DVD on April 23 in Europe and May 4 in the U.S. via Frontiers Records. In 2008, following a 13-year hiatus, Extreme returned to the stage for its "Take Us Alive" world tour, which encompassed 75 cities and multiple continents in support of the band's new record, "Saudades de Rock". This recording captures Extreme at the peak of its game with a renewed enthusiasm led by Gary Cherone's spellbinding stage performance and powerful vocals, Nuno Bettencourt's ferocious guitar, Pat Badger's flawless bass and Kevin Figueiredo's pounding drums and spot-on back-up vocals. This brilliant performance was recorded on the last night of their tour at the House of Blues on August 8, 2009 in Extreme's hometown of Boston. "We wanted to do something really special for our hometown fans that were there for us since the beginning… the club days," states Nuno. "It was the last night of the tour and we couldn't think of a better way to celebrate than by bringing it back to where it all started… Boston." The concert showcases material from all five Extreme albums and exhibits the band's broad stylistic abilities. Features include a blistering rendition of the Led Zeppelin-minded "Comfortably Dumb", the scorching "Play With Me", the funked-up "Cupid's Dead" as well as the anthemic "Get The Funk Out". Songs like Extreme's #1 hit "More Than Words" and the Top 5 single "Hole Hearted" highlight the crowds enthusiasm and loyal support their fan base has had for this beloved foursome. "As much as we enjoy recording, for me, I've always loved playing live for the fans," Cherone says. "We couldn't wait to get out there and play for our fans." The DVD will contain four unreleased bonus videos from "Saudades de Rock" — "King of the Ladies", "Interface", "Run" and "Ghost". The clips were produced by Nuno Bettencourt. "This DVD/CD is a culmination of all the years we played together and the chemistry the four of us put out live," explains Bettencourt. "Take Us Alive" concert track listing: 01. Decadence Dance 02. Comfortably Dumb 03. Rest in Peace 04. It's a Monster 05. Star 06. Tell me Something I Don't Know 07. Medley - Kid Ego / Little Girls / Teacher's Pet 08. Play With Me 09. Midnight Express 10. More Than Words 11. Ghost 12. Cupid's Dead 13. Take us Alive 14. Flight of the Wounded Bumblebee 15. Get the Funk Out 16. Am I Ever Gonna Change 17. Hole Hearted. Bonus music videos (DVD only) 18. King of the Ladies 19. Interface 20. Run 21. Ghost. Watch Youtube DVD teaser: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnm51Ittwow. About Extreme: To date, the Grammy-nominated Extreme have released five albums, plus a greatest hits set—selling over 10 million records worldwide. They also achieved a #1 hit single, "More Than Words"—from their 1990 multi-platinum album Extreme II: Pornograffitti—on the Billboard Hot 100, which they followed with the Top Five "Hole Hearted." Although these two acoustic hits brought the band great mainstream success, the band's trademark sound has always been more a mix of hard rock funk—fueled by guitar virtuoso Nuno Bettencourt's signature style, Gary Cherone's resonant vocals and socially conscious lyrics, Pat Badger's rock solid bass, and the hard hitting Kevin Figueiredo on drums. Weblinks: www.extreme-band.com / www.myspace.com/extreme / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xxxx A new video has been released to promote the Wig Wam single Do Ya Wanna Taste It. Check it out on YouTube via the link below. The single is from the band's new album Non-Stop Rock N Roll.   FM LIVE IN LONDON: FM Video Footage – Live at the Roadhouse London 7 February 2010 Performing "Feel Like Makin' Love" with special guest Mick Ralphs of Bad Company March 10th 2010 - British rockers FM recently celebrated the forthcoming release of their new album Metropolis with an album launch party in London. 500 fans and friends squeezed into the Roadhouse, Covent Garden for a meet & greet, album playback and show by FM. Special guest James Ralphs played an accomplished acoustic set, and later on in the evening his father - the legendary Mick Ralphs of Mott The Hoople and Bad Company fame – joined FM on stage to close FM's set with a spellbinding rendition of the Bad Company classic Feel Like Makin' Love. With a big grin on his face, Pete Jupp, drummer with FM had this to say - "Bad Company were my favourite band in my teenage years. I still love the first two albums, and for me to be up on stage playing with Mick was a real buzz I can tell you. Playing "Feel Like Makin' Love" with the Ralpher, one of my heroes, absolutely wicked!" Metropolis is due out March 29. To get your copy of the album before the official release date go to the FM website www.fmoffical.com where the album can be pre-ordered NOW. Pre-ordered copies will be dispatched 19 March 2010. To hear new Metropolis soundclips click here. Stay tuned for news of more FM shows in 2010....   OUT SOON IN JAPAN: Some cool releases coming up shortly and several have exclusive Japanese listings already. Details as follows (with links to pre-order if needed): Dokken - Greatest Hits 2 - Out April 21. Track Listing: 1 Just Got Lucky 2 Breaking The Chains 3 Into The Fire 4 The Hunter 5 In My Dreams 6 It's Not Love 7 Alone Again 8 Dream Warrior 9 Unchain The Night 10 Tooth And Nail 11 Almost Over (new song) 12 Magic Man (new song) 13 Bus Stop (Hollies cover) 14 Lies (Knickerbockers cover). Pre-Order. AC/DC / Iron Man 2 Deluxe Version [w/ DVD, Limited Edition] Release Date: 21-Apr-2010 / First greatest hits album release from AC/DC as the soundtrack of the film "Iron Man 2." Includes 15 tunes selected from the band's previous 10 albums, ranging from 1976 to 2008. Limited edition includes a bonus DVD with music videos of "Shoot To Thrill" and "Highway to Hell," making-of the music videos, footage from the film, and more. Features special package (mirror type paper is used) with a 32-page booklet. Pre-Order. John Norum / TBA Release Date: 21-Apr-2010 / Solo album release from John Norum. Pre-Order. H.E.A.T / Freedom Rock Release Date: 21-Apr-2010. Pre-Order. Alcatrazz / Untitled Release Date: 28-Apr-2010 / Live album release from Alcatrazz featuring audio recording from their concert performance on January 28, 1984 at Nakano Nakano Sun Plaza. Pre-Order. Plus the following titles are to be released in remastered paper sleeve editions - featuring the high-fidelity SHM-CD format (fully compatible with standard CD players) - Steelheart Steelheart; Cinderella Night Songs; L.A.Guns L.A. Guns; Tygers Of Pan Tang Spellbound; TNT Intuition; Tyketto Don't Come Easy. Click To Pre-Order.

 

 

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

LION MUSIC APRIL RELEASES ANNOUNCED: Lion Music have announced their two April 17 releases. The details are as follows. CD Showcases for both adding shortly: Dreyelands - Rooms Of Revelation Promo page with streaming mp3 at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/roomsofrevelation.htm. Released April 17 - Dreyelands are a melodic progressive metal band from Hungary. Their debut album 'Rooms Of Revelation' showcases the bands versatile attitude for music being a tasty mixture of the metallic and the melodic side of progressive and power metal, combined with a touch of 80s AOR/hard rock music. The songs are powered by heavy guitar riffs fused with ultra melodic, memorable vocal themes along with clever arrangements. Sonically the album is big, modern and natural with no triggers on the drums and live string arrangements etc. The first half of the album has the lighter songs and as the listener gets nearer to the end they are increasingly heavier and darker. Lyrically 'Rooms of Revelation' depicts a journey in a schizophrenic mind. The story is about a man that is loosing all his loves and at the end, his life as well. Our protagonist has a cruel fate: every woman, he is conceiving passion for, are disappearing after the first fulfilment of their love. Haunted by the pain of loss, he begins a journey in an imaginary house, where he finds more and more clues about what happened to his subjects of love. It turns out that all his loves were killed. Progressing with the story, we will realize that the killer is the dark side of his split personality, brought to life by the protagonist itself. Being always afraid that the first heavenly flames are dying out, this killer is his remedy for the fear of what will come after the first fulfilment of love. As the journey continues, the killer is coming more and more to the fore, to make the decision to die together in the last song. After forming in 2003 Dreyelands recorded their first release, a promotional EP titled 'Can't Hide Away' (released in 2007). There was also a music video made for the title song of the EP. This video was featured several times on the Headbanger's Ball program of MTV Hungary with the EP receiving great feedback from not only Hungarian but also international press. During 2007 the band finished the song writing for the debut album 'Rooms of Revelation' which was recorded in several studios in Hungary and Serbia in 2008 and mixed/mastered by well known Hungarian producer / engineer Barnabás Hidasi at HL-Studio in 2009. After the recordings keyboardist Zoltán Kas left the band. For future promotion work and live gigs the band is completed by György Nagy (Age of Nemesis) as a session member. After hearing the band Lion Music was blown away with the quality of material on offer and a deal was finalised in September 2009. Dreyelands serve up a fresh yet classic sound in the melodic progressive metal genre and 'Rooms Of Revelation' opens its doors to the public on April 17 2010. Track Listing 1. Entering. 2. Room 1 Seek For Salvation. 3. Room 2 Can't Hide Away. 4. Room 3 Pretending. 5. Room 4 Fragments. 6. Room 5 Way To You. 7. Room 6 Blossoms Of Decay. 8. Room 7 Vain. 9. Room 8 Leaving Grace. Musicians: Nikola Mijic - vocals, András Ádám Horváth - guitars, Gergely Springer - bass guitar, Omar Gassama - drums, Zoltán Kas - keyboards on album. György Nagy - keyboards live WebLinks: www.dreyelands.com / www.myspace.com/dreyelands.   xx Grönholm - Eyewitness Of Life Promo page with streaming mp3 at: www.lionmusic.com/cd/eyewitness.htm / 'Eyewitness Of Life' is the debut album from a new act from Finland - enter Grönholm led by guitarist and song writer Mika Grönholm. The music of 'Eyewitness Of Life' is built with an appreciation for a number of metal genres yet there is a common theme of progressive orientated riffs throughout the album, however 'Eyewitness Of Life' avoids the monster shredding the genre is renowned for resulting in a more focused compact album for those that like strong songs first and foremost. Nuances of artists such as Queensrÿche and Rush can be heard here and there, but the song is of main concern for Grönholm who also adds a few shades of other cultural sounds from Indian and Spanish music along with some jazz inspired progressions to add a little spice, yet the overall feel remains firmly in the metal camp and is easily accessible. Grönholm states "Simplicity is many times beautiful and I think this approach has served me well". Joining Mika is Status Minor vocalist Markku Kuikka and drummer Tom Rask with Grönholm handling guitar, bass and synth duties himself and this trio of musicians have created a big sounding album. Each recorded their parts at their home studios before Mika pieced the album together at his home studio. Six years spent working in one of the leading studios in Finland ensured this was an easy process for Mika to bring the whole album together and only mixing and mastering was handled outside of Grönholm's remit. In addition to the fine performances of the core trio of musicians the album also features guest appearances from guitarist Ty Tabor (Kings X) and keyboard whiz Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Billy Idol), Grönholm comments, "One goal was to have a few very good guests on this and it came true with Derek Sherinian and Ty Tabor . I mailed them and they liked the music samples on MySpace so they agreed to play a few solos and songs. As one can guess they nailed their parts really great, and it was very nice hear their tracks". With "Eyewitness Of Life" Grönholm have delivered a very strong debut album that is home to punchy songs, great musicianship, strong production and great artwork from Hugh Syme (Rush/Megadeth etc) and is released on April 17 2010 on Lion Music. Track Listing 01. One Minute Of Reality. 02. Awaited. 03. Fate & Belief. 04. Life Is. 05. Meet The Maker. 06. You And Me. 07. Misfortune-teller. 08. Learn To Crawl. 09. Eyewitness Of Life. 10. Place For Freedom. Musicians: Mika Grönholm - Guitars, Bass, Synths. Markku Kuikka - Vocals. Tom Rask - Drums. WebLinks: www.mikagronholm.com / www.myspace.com/mikagronholm.   xx RICK SPRINGFIELD REVISITS THE PAST: Rick Springfield's original 1975/1976 touring band with Jack White, Gabe Katona, Robbie Levin & Jeff Silverman recently reunited in Nashville, TN for a performance of Rick's 1976 single, "Take A Hand". Watch the video on YouTube - www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQKUKpX3-MA. And you can check out a terrific and candid new interview with Rick at: www.songfacts.com/blog/interviews/rick_springfield/. E1 ENTERTAINMENT AND THE LEGENDARY KISS SEAL DEAL: Los Angeles, CA and Toronto, ON / March 9, 2010 / Leading independent studio, E1 Entertainment is thrilled to finalize their production and development deal with legendary rock band Kiss. E1 will tap the worldwide enthusiasm for the Kiss brand, collaborating with founding members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley to create a comedic half-hour kids television series that galvanizes the band's iconic personas for its young fans. "We're honored to be involved in carrying on the Kiss legacy," comments Frank Saperstein, Senior VP of Kids and Animation for E1. "It's wonderful to collaborate with the creative forces behind one of the greatest rock bands of all time and unquestionably one of the most recognized worldwide." E1 has snagged the Kiss brand as it eclipses its roots, building energy in new family and youth media outlets. Kiss's role as the face of Dr. Pepper, their significant presence during Super Bowl XLIV, and their appearance on the 2009 American Idol Finale, which reached over thirty million viewers, has made the make-up and leather-clad giants a household name for kids and families today. The Kiss tradition continues to grow generation after generation transcending age, race and creed. "Kiss continues to be the juggernaut of licensing and merchandising, from Kiss M&M's to Kiss Dr Pepper," remarks Kiss co-founder Gene Simmons, "Kiss is a band, but also the only music BRAND. Continuing in our 35 year history of going where no band has gone before, we are proud to partner with E1. Like all things Kiss, we intend to make this a very special show for our fans." "We couldn't be more excited. Coupling E1's successes and ingenuity with the global force of Kiss guarantees an express pass into the homes of our youngest Kiss Army members with a show of superior quality," adds Kiss co-founder Paul Stanley. The as-yet untitled series will be produced and distributed worldwide by E1. Executive Producers are John Morayniss and Frank Saperstein for E1 Entertainment; Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of Kiss. E1 and Kiss will handle all licensing and merchandise for the series. ANNOUNCE DEPARTURE OF SINGER ZP THEART: New York, NY: DragonForce have split with lead singer ZP Theart. The band issued the following statement, regarding the matter: "It is with great regret that DragonForce announce a parting of the ways with singer ZP Theart. This is due to insurmountable differences of musical opinion but the rest of the band sincerely wishes ZP great success with his future projects." While the creative core members have begun writing the fifth album, they have also started a worldwide search for a new vocalist. "We are looking for a powerful, melodic singer to write a new chapter of DragonForce with us." said guitarist Herman Li. Anyone wishing to audition for the vacant position should apply following the instructions at this web address: www.dragonforce.com/audition. OZZY REFLECTS BACK ON THE BAT: Ozzy Osbourne reflects on life in a new media interview: www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/music/he-is-ozzy-among-other-things/article1495018. "Yes, the infamous man-bites-bat episode, Jan. 20, 1982, on stage at the Veterans Auditorium in Des Moines, Iowa. (This is a different incident than the record-label meeting where Osbourne munched a dove). In Des Moines, thinking the stunned myotis lucifugus was a rubber toy, the wailing singer chomped it good. Immediately he realized his mistake: "For a start, my mouth was instantly full of this warm, gloopy liquid, with the worst aftertaste you could ever imagine," Osbourne recounts in chapter seven. "I could felt it staining my teeth and running down my chin. Then the head in my mouth twitched." As you might imagine it would. But if the bat didn't fare so well in this macabre bit of showmanship, neither has Osbourne – he's never lived the incident down. "That's all people think I did, was biting the head off animals," says the exasperated so-called Prince of Darkness. "I mean, I could still probably bite the head off something, but what's the point?" Surprisingly, the formerly avid druggie and drinker is able to recount all the stories. "My long-term memory is okay, but not my short-term memory," says the absent-minded star of the MTV reality show The Osbournes from 2002 to 2005. "I walk up and down stairs, forgetting what I was walking up the stairs for". Readers benefit from his still functioning lobes, as the 391-page book is chock full of alcohol-related anecdotes and tawdry tidbits. It's not all sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll, though. "There's a human side to me," the often outrageous Osbourne insists. Asked about regrets, he mentions a few things, particularly the way he failed to help his parents financially after he hit the big time with Black Sabbath in 1970. "When you come from the backstreets of Birmingham, all of a sudden you've got a car, you've got a house, you can buy a drink and you can buy good drugs. You suddenly think you're up-market." HEART GUITARIST HOWARD LEESE ALMOST REPLACED KERRY LIVGREN IN KANSAS?: Guitarist Howard Leese has revealed that he might have replaced Kerry Livgren as lead guitarist in Kansas. In an exclusive interview with Long Live Rock on Blog Talk Radio, the former Heart guitarist told hosts Sterling Whitaker and Jeb Wright that one of the band members told him Kansas had considered him for the gig. "Phil Ehart told me - which is bizarre, and I never knew it - that when Kerry Livgren left the band, they were gonna replace him, and I was on the top of the list," Leese recalled. "They almost called me, they were gonna call me and see if I would leave Heart and join Kansas, which is such an honor. I don't know if I would have done it at the time, but I love that band. They're such great players, and to know that I was the first person considered to join was really a compliment. I was really touched when Phil told me that." Of course, Leese did not end up joining Kansas; he stayed with Heart through an incredible run in the Eighties and into the Nineties. For the past eleven years he has played with legendary singer Paul Rodgers, and he recently joined Rodgers in the Bad Company reunion tour. Leese is featured on the new Bad Company DVD Hard Rock Live, and he's preparing to tour in England with the band. Listen to the interview at this link: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/03/09/interview-with-guitarist-howard-leese-from-long-live-rock/ MORE GNR CLUB GIGS: Los Angeles — Reuters / Guns N' Roses will play three private shows in Brazil and Argentina during the band's current tour of South America, the organizer said on Monday. The shows are set for undisclosed locations in Sao Paulo on Thursday and Buenos Aires on March 20. Plans are also in the works for a show in Rio De Janeiro. Organizer Jamison Ernest said each venue will hold about 150 people. He declined to reveal too much information for fear of riots by uninvited guests. He will co-host the Sao Paulo show with Brazilian model Ana Beatriz Barros. The 11-date tour, the band's first trek around the continent since its heyday in 1992, began on Sunday in Brasilia. Dates are on tap through April 1 in Quito, Ecuador. The band will also play Uruguay, Chile, Peru, Venezuela and Colombia. Ernest, a friend of Guns N' Roses singer Axl Rose, also runs a clothing company and has a band, both named Yellow Fever. Guns N' Roses previously played three secret shows, two in New York City and one in London. Rose is the only remaining member left from the band when its popularity peaked during a decade spanning the 1980s and 1990s. The other members were either ousted or quit. Even though its 2008 album "Chinese Democracy," its first release in 17 years, was a major flop, the band remains a strong concert draw. Rose and his new crop of bandmates were last in Brazil to play the Rock in Rio festival in January 2001. PINK FLOYD SUES EMI: LONDON — Pink Floyd has begun legal action against music label EMI Group Ltd. over the way royalty payments are calculated in the digital era. The group's lawyer, Robert Howe, told the High Court that the band was disputing the way royalties for online sales are worked out. He said the group also wants a ruling on whether EMI can sell tracks "unbundled" from their original albums. Howe said the band's contract prohibits selling tracks "otherwise than in the original configuration of the Pink Floyd albums." EMI claims the rule applies only to physical albums, not the Internet. Pink Floyd signed with EMI in 1967 and became one of its most lucrative acts. Tuesday's hearing was the start of what is expected to be a lengthy legal battle. WebLink: www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20100309/ent_pink_floyd_100309/20100309?hub=EntertainmentV2. WARREN DEMARTINI INTERVIEWS WITH HARDROCK HAVEN: Ratt guitarist Warren DeMartini talks about the band's new Infestation album: Hardrock Haven: After establishing yourself with Ratt, what was it like moving onto Whitesnake for a couple albums? Warren DeMartini: In 1991 Ratt broke up so in 1994 when Whitesnake was on tour and I got the invite to play and it was just perfect for me. I love to travel and Whitesnake would be playing a lot of locations around the world that Ratt hadn't played. I had a great time working with Whitesnake and of course, since they are a very blues based band my guitar playing fit right in. Working with David Coverdale also opened my eyes to the fact that a rock n roll tour could be very organized and professionally managed. Hardrock Haven: How would you say Infestation stacks up in comparison to Ratts earlier work? Warren DeMartini: Again, we went into the studio with only one rule, that being try to play it in the studio like wed play it live. We were looking for energy. Out of the Cellar is a very different kind of album than Infestation is. On Out Of The Cellar we laid the tracks down quickly hoping that wed get a great take and we didn't spend a lot of time in the studio. On later albums we took a lot more time in the studio and experimented with sounds and recording but that's an entirely different animal. Overall I think Infestation is a great record with tons of energy. To read the interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/warren-dimartini/. SHREDGUY RECORDS UPDATE: The "mad scientist of shred guitar" Adrian English has released a new 7 minute instrumental song "G-theory". This is a prelude to an upcoming release from Mr English set for May 2010. The single song is available at: itunes.apple.com/us/album/g-theory/id346025792. Also the first single from the new CD from Toby Knapp The Campaign is also available for download at: itunes.apple.com/us/album/wicked-feat-tom-cline-single/id348712835. Knapp described the song as "something that may have appeared on Zep's Physical Graffiti featuring vocalist Tom Cline (of Noise Auction), who mixes Alice In Chains and Zep resulting in the catchiest chorus I've heard in my music!" Toby will be chatting live with Metal Messiah Radio (www.metalmessiahradio.com) on Monday, February 22nd at 9PM PST/Midnight EST.

 

 

Tuesday, March 09, 2010

ESCAPE MUSIC'S FIRECRACKER RELEASE: Escape Music are pleased to announce their next release, due out April 23 - Firecracker's debut album Born Of Fire. The band Firecracker started some years ago and is the brainchild of Stefan Lindholm (Vindictiv). Before Vindictiv was formed Stefan contacted keyboard maestro Pontus Larsson and they started to work on some of the songs he had laid down. With bass player Fredrik Folkare (Unleached) and Hasse Worzel on drums the band took shape. Vocalist Tommy Karevik from "Seventh Wonder" took care of the vocal duties and the basis of Firecracker came to a reality. Musically the band is everything you would expect and more from Sweden. For all of you out there that have heard and fallen in love with Vindictiv ("Vindictiv" ESM164 and "Ground Zero" ESM190) then this predecessor is essential listening. The guitar technique of Stefan Lindholm is as crisp and neat as ever, and he seems to effortlessly produce exciting riffs and melodies with nonchalance. His early years admiring and emulating the works of Malmsteen and Vai shine through but he does have a technique of his own that finds its way through. Keyboards play a vital role in the overall sound and there are plenty of these throughout, and when in harmony, form passages of pleasurable rock music. In addition to Pontus Larsson, keyboards are also supplied by classical player Henrik Mawe and his input of elongated keyboards makes this a stunning release and shows a difference to Vindictiv, a band who Stefan naturally progressed from Firecracker. The CD "Born of Fire" is an exciting look back to the earlier days of Stefan's career, which is now developing into legendary status. It is a release that has an appealing raw edge to it, and it would have been a sin to pass by this fantastic recording. Firecracker is a great name for a band, certainly this one as they fit their moniker exactly. Line-Up: Stefan Lindholm – Guitars, arrangements; Pontus Larsson – keyboards; Tommy Kerevik – Vocals; Hasse Wazzel - Drums; Fredrik Folkare - Bass. Track List: 1-Blind Date 2- Second Self 3- Gamekeepers Song 4-Speed Devil 5-Back Broken 6-The Refrain 7-A Place Called Behind 8-Instru (metal). Download a free full length preview from the album; the track Blind Date. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   xx CRUNCH: STARTING OVER...LIVE AT FIREFEST (DVD): Emerging like a phoenix from the ashes of their former guise, the critically lauded and well-regarded melodic rock act Adriangale have reunited to form Crunch. The band features seminal vocalist Jamie Rowe (Guardian/Adriangale/London Calling), acclaimed guitarist/producer Vic Rivera (Adriangale/Poley-Rivera) and respected guitarist Eddie Campbell (Adriangale/Arabia). For the bassist slot, Crunch enlisted Doug Odell (formerly of Ice Age) to complete the newly-formed act. "Adriangale never really had true closure," says Vic Rivera (chief songwriter/principal architect of both Adriangale and Crunch). "This was due in no small part to our not having rights to continued usage of the name after the Crunch record was completed. Consequentially, as Adriangale's music deserved to have a much broader audience than had previously afforded under our prior working conditions, Jamie, Eddie and myself always knew that there would be a time for us to reconvene when the right opportunity presented itself." Such an opportunity arose when the popular Firefest rock festival contacted Vic Rivera in November of 2006 to gauge interest in appearing at the 2007 line-up of that show. Chomping at the bit, Jamie, Vic, Ed and Doug (who had previously worked with Adriangale in the studio for the Re:Program record) were more than willing and able to participate. Though regrettably unable to secure the rights continue on as Adriangale, at the suggestion of Firefest a name change was proposed and immediately welcomed – thus, Crunch was born. For long standing fans of the band formerly known as AG, their live debut at Firefest was one of those moments that will live long in the memory. Cranking out a number of AG classics such as 'Feel the Fire' 'Without a moments Notice' 'Reap what you Sow' and the ultimate weekend rock and roll anthem 'Closer' (which judging by the audience reaction all 1700 people already knew the words!) Crunch proved that unlike their previous outfit they have a love of the stage and their performance reflected that.. Add to that the debut of a brand new track 'Starting Over' the title track of the limited edition E.P. released only at Firefest. Now, when we say limited, we mean limited. There are only 500 copies of this E.P. in existence worldwide and Firefest have 300 copies which we and Crunch are giving away free ....yes absolutely free to the first 300 people to purchase a copy of the Starting Over DVD, that is In Stock and available right now from the Firefest Shop (www.thefirefest.com) and the shop at www.rocktopia.co.uk. Now you can have a little piece of rock and roll history and the first and only CRUNCH Live performance DVD in your possession at the click of a mouse! Once again, as with all of the Firefest series of DVD's, 'Starting Over' is a limited edition DVD with only 500 copies available worldwide. It is available in PAL Region Free (0) and is definitely one for your collection. Considering Vic's most recent output with Poley/Rivera and Jamie Rowe's continued popularity with Christian rock mega stars Guardian, this DVD will sell out in record time. It's a testament to pure unadulterated melodic hard rock delivered with the undeniable crunch (please excuse the pun!) and panache of a bona fide American hard rock band delivering their brand of weekend entertainment to 1700 new best friends at Firefest 5. Starting Over DVD Tracklist: 1. My Heart Will Go On 2. Reap what you Sow 3. Crunch 4. No more Chances 5. Starting Over 6. Heartbreak Guaranteed 7.Without a Moment's Notice 8. Over Said and Done 9.Long Gone 10. Closer 11. Faith 12. Feel the Fire. Starting Over E.P. Tracklist: 1. Starting Over 2. The Good Stuff 3. Miss Me. Check out the trailer HERE: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dx38TiDsEXU. Don't forget, this is a Limited Edition DVD and the first 300 orders ONLY will receive the Starting Over E.P. completely free of charge. Now that's a bargain!   FIREWORKS #39 OUT NOW!: Another classic full-colour 100 page Fireworks issue featuring fantastic interviews with Foreigner, Cinderella, Richie Kotzen, Jeff Scott Soto, Transatlantic, Dare, Vinny Burns, Brian Howe, Marillion, Airbourne, Papa Roach, Soul Doctor, Stage Dolls, Chad Smith, Giant, Leverage, State of Rock, Tara's Secret, Keel, Diamond Head and many more. Over 30 pages of in-depth reviews!! Also comes with free CD containing the following bands: Giant, Stage Dolls, Last Autumn's Dream, Stargazer, Tara's Secret, Heavenly, Wig Wam, Jon Oliva's Pain, State of Rock, Human Temple, Panic Room, Brian Howe, Fire, Orden Ogan, Mob Rules, Sora, Dirty Beloved and Roxville. For hard copy, visit the shop at www.rocktopia.co.uk (6 issue subscriptions also available). Or send cheque (UK only) for £6 to 'Bruce Mee' and send to: Fireworks Magazine, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5XD. For download copy (including all CD tracks), please visit www.melodicrock.com (Online this week). Help keep the music alive. Support Fireworks Magazine and melodicrock.com.   Those fine people behind Fireworks Magazine have teamed up with those equally fine people at Transistor Pictures, who can boast the stunning Firefest DVD's as part of their glistening portfolio, to create a brand new community where fans and musicians can interact. Rocktopia is the result, a place where musicians can contact those behind the successful annual Firefest festival, Fireworks Magazine itself and also talk to the people at Transistor Pictures who bring melodic rock to life on DVD. Fans are encouraged to share their feedback, and keep abreast of the latest news and reviews. Fireworks Magazine will be available to buy there in hard copy format (pdf download exclusive to melodicrock.com), and there is an exclusive selection of interviews and reviews conducted by those at Fireworks which are only available on the website, not in the magazine itself. The Firefest live DVD's that have impressed everyone who has seen them will also be added to the online shop in the very near future. Firefest itself has it's own dedicated section with all the latest news. Still in its infancy, Rocktopia boasts an every growing archive of live photos, concert, album and DVD reviews, an album database expanding on a daily basis, plus interviews, news and blogs from those involved - all in one slick, beautifully designed site. Our team add new content to the site every day. Musician, fan, rock lover in general - we want you to become a part of it at www.rocktopia.co.uk. Prize Draw - Those new to signing up to www.rocktopia.co.uk will have their names entered into a prize draw. At the end of March, we will randomly draw four names from the list of new members, resulting in the following prizes: 1st Prize: Pair of weekend Firefest 2010 tickets • 2nd Prize: Year subscription to Fireworks Magazine • 3rd Prize: Loud & Clear 'Louder Than Ever Live At Firefest' DVD/CD Collectors Pack (choice of PAL or NTSC) • 4th Prize: Crunch 'Starting Over: Live At Firefest' DVD (PAL only) DANNY VAUGHN ANNOUNCES TOUR & "REPRISE": Danny Vaughn, described by Classic Rock Magazine as being, "One of the top voices of the melodic hard rock genre", returns to the stage in December 2010 with the Inspirations and Aspirations Tour. Following on from the success of his last album, Traveller, and the 2009 live album, The Road Less Travelled, Danny Vaughn and his band will tour the UK with a concert of two halves. Part one is Inspirations; songs by the artists that influenced Danny Vaughn as a songwriter and singer. Part two is Aspirations; songs covering Danny's entire career, from Waysted to Tyketto, Flesh & Blood to Vaughn. This is the first time that Danny Vaughn has performed such a wide range of songs in one live show, and with such a variety of artists and songs that inspired him to become a singer/songwriter, you can expect a few surprises to boot! As you can imagine, for such a performance, you need versatile and exceptional musicians. Danny Vaughn's band for this tour will include some of the UK's top musicians; Chris Childs (Thunder), Ryan Aston (Bonnie Tyler) and Christian Phillips (Ultimate Eagles). Happiness, Sadness, Joy, Heartbreak: For the first time Danny Vaughn will give you his life in music! This is a night not to be missed! Danny Vaughn = Inspirations and Aspirations Tour 2010 December 3 – Belfast, Rosetta – www.wegottickets.com December 4 – London, Camden Underworld – www.theunderworldcamden.co.uk December 5 – Sheffield, Corporation - www.corporation.org.uk December 10 – Dudley, JB's - www.jbsdudley.co.uk December 11 – Newcastle, Cluny – www.hardrockhouse.com December 12 – Glasgow ABC2 – www.triplegmusic.com To coincide with the announcement of the Inspirations & Aspirations tour Danny Vaughn will also release Reprise, a box set that packages together Soldiers & Sailors On Riverside & Fearless into one fantastic double CD, and adds additional bonus material to make it a superb addition to anyone's collection. Speaking about the release of Reprise, Tyketto/Vaughn drummer Michael Clayton Arbeeny says: "For those of you that know the Tyketto history, 1994 was the year that Danny had called it a day as our lead singer. Family commitments made it impossible for him to stay with us. Despite a commendable release with vocalist Steve Augeri on Tyketto's third studio album, "Shine", the Tyketto magic wasn't there, and we called it a day in 1995. It was an abrupt end to an exhilarating run. Sometime in 1999, after many years of not seeing each other, Danny and I met up in New York City. Within minutes, his acoustic guitar was out and he played me some ideas he had swirling in his head. The connection was still there, and a few weeks later we were in Nashville working on material for what would become Vaughn's debut album, "Soldiers and Sailors on Riverside". A European tour was soon to follow, and our follow up album, "Fearless" arrived in late 2001. As both of these albums were self produced, we were able to forge our own creative path with them. There was a personalization with the Vaughn releases that became very special to Danny and I. The positive reviews on both albums worldwide were sincerely appreciated. Our paths crossed again in 2004 with a successful Tyketto reunion tour and album release. For the next few years, Tyketto toured nine countries, and was a welcome addition to many festivals in the UK, Sweden and Brazil. The two original Vaughn releases, however, seemed to just disappear. Recently, we were presented with an offer to buy the original masters of both Soldiers and Fearless from our old label. The thought of being able to own these albums was very appealing to us both. Regardless of how many copies they may or may not sell, this was our music. We felt that with Vaughn's short run, many of the Tyketto fans hadn't gotten a chance to check out some of Danny's best writing. So after many years off the shelf, these albums are now available. For us, these albums are the "unsung heroes" in the Tyketto anthology, as they reunited the same partnership and brotherhood that launched Tyketto back in 1987. In early 2010, we will be releasing Reprise. It is a box set of both Soldiers and Sailors on Riverside and Fearless, as well as "House of Cards" (a song which only appeared as a B side to the "Is that all there is" single), as well as exclusive Danny Vaughn interviews and commentary. As our primary goal is to share this newfound music with you all, we have priced the two disc set for just about what single CD would cost. We are now the band, the label and the management team, and we couldn't be happier". Reprise Track Listing: Bad Water, Is That All There Is, Healing Hands, A Handful Of Rain, Stone Monkey, Shadowland, Soldiers & Sailors On Riverside, Paradise Ain't Home, Gandy Dance & The Voice. Fearless, Haunted, Fly Away, A Million Miles Of Road, Was There A Moment, When You Walk Away, Dulcimer Street, Just Like That, Carry Me Home. Bonus Features: House of Cards*, Original Danny Vaughn 2002 commentary on the making of Soldiers and Sailors on Riverside*, Exclusive 2010 Interview of Danny Vaughn conducted by Michael Clayton** and a 2010 live performance of Soldiers and Sailors on Riverside featuring Danny with Tyketto's Bobby Lynch on piano** * Originally featured on the "Is That All There Is" single ** Bonus features exclusive to Reprise Reprise will be released on April 5th 2010 and is available to pre-order exclusively via www.hardrockhouse.com. WebLinks: www.dannyvaughn.com / www.myspace.com/vaughnband   SWEDEN ROCK FEST ADDS 3 MORE: Sweden Rock Festival are swelling their ranks with more great bands for the 2010 event: www.swedenrock.com. Winger (US) - Not only was Winger one of the biggest melodic hard-rock acts in the late 80s/early 90s, they were also bona fide world-class musicians. Front-man Kip Winger used to play bass for Alice Cooper, drummer Rod Morgenstein came from the Dixie Dregs featuring Steve Morse, and guitarist Reb Beach has since gained even greater repute with Dokken, Whitesnake and Night Ranger. The band split up in 1994 after three albums, all of which are undisputed classics and containing such hits as "Seventeen", "Miles Away" and "Down Incognito". On their comeback album "IV", released in 2006, Winger managed to transcend into more "serious" territories while still keep their old fans happy and more. Winger's greatest asset was always their musical talent, not how cute they were 20 years ago. They prove this once more on their fifth and current album "Karma", and will undoubtedly do so at SRF as well. The Quireboys (UK) - 20 years have passed since the Quireboys wrote pub rock history with their classic debut "A Bit of What You Fancy", featuring gems like "7 O' Clock", "Hey You" and "I Don't Love You Anymore". However, after the follow-up "Bitter Sweet & Twisted" the band called it a day, feeling out of fashion in the era of grunge. But gradually the Quireboys came to realize how many of their loyal fans that missed them, not least the Swedish ones. In 2001 the band released their comeback album "This is Rock'n'Roll", to date succeeded by "Well Oiled" (2004), "Homewreckers & Hearttbreakers" (2008) and the acoustic "Halfpenny Dancer" (2009). In today's Sweden, the Quireboys is a band that is cherished by old fans and young sleaze- and pub rockers alike. And few live acts are capable of creating such a party atmosphere as Spike, Guy Griffin, Nigel Mogg and the lads. Point Blank (US) - Groove-based Southern Rock with a hint of AOR for good measure, is what Point Blank provides. Guitarist and main man Rusty Burns was once a guitar technician for ZZ Top, and the latter's manager Bill Ham also discovered the potential of Point Blank. The band released six albums from 1976 to '82, "Nicole" (1981) becoming their biggest hit. Point Blank disbanded, largely due to legal wrangles, but returned to the scene in 2005. In 2009, they released their first studio album in seventeen years, "Fight On!". Now the band makes their second appearance at SRF - a welcome return for all friends of hard-hitting melodies and that genuine Southern atmosphere. MR-X UPDATE: MR-X has been updated. Small update, but another due Friday. Online today are two features: - Goran Edman - Unplugged Live (Audience recording, but cool to hear the man sing like this) - Gerard McMahon & Kid Lightning - Blue Rue (Feature Album) MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Monday, March 08, 2010

MELODIC ROCK FEST UPDATE: I am very pleased to announce that New Jersey rockers Trixter will be joining the MelodicRockFest 2 event for Sunday May 2. The guys have not played in the Chicago region for 14 years and will bring a true "best of" set to fans gathered. Tickets available now via: www.melodicrockfest.com.   Thanks for the terrific support following the frustrating MRF2 update and the loss of W.E.T. and Eclipse from the bill. No more bad news! It's great to see most folks are in for the event, not just one artist in particular. Tune in for more updates. A few people have asked after tickets - they had to be re-designed with the updated line-up and should arrive back from the printers at the end of this week – to be shipped out first thing next week. DREAM THEATER TO SUPPORT IRON MAIDEN ON SUMMER TOUR: New York, NY: Prog rock/metal icons Dream Theater will spend their summer supporting Iron Maiden on the band's month-long tour of major US and Canadian markets. The tour launches on June 9 and runs through July 20, and includes a stop at the storied Madison Square Garden in NYC, marking the first time in a lengthy and respected career that Dream Theater will have played the world's most famous arena. This tour will mark another milestone in Dream Theater's history, which continues to expand and evolve, twenty-five years deep. Of touring with Iron Maiden in North America, drummer Mike Portnoy said, "It is a bit of a dream come true for us. After 25 years together, at this stage in our career, there's honestly only three bands Dream Theater would consider opening for and Maiden is one of them. It is an absolute honor. Through the years, we've done many one-off shows with Maiden and they've almost all been overseas. It is very exciting to finally be doing a full tour with them and on our side of the pond, no less. These are gonna be amazing shows that the fans won't want to miss. Up the f***ing irons!" Playing MSG for the first time is also a huge accomplishment for the band and they are thrilled about the prospect. "Dream Theater has achieved so many dreams through the years, from playing the Budokan in Tokyo to Wembley Arena in London to Radio City Music Hall in NYC," Portnoy recalled. "But the one remaining dream that has eluded us through all of these years was to play at Madison Square Garden. Well, on July 12, along with Iron Maiden, that dream will finally be fulfilled." Guitarist John Petrucci was equally stoked about the MSG play, saying, "I am unbelievably excited to be finally playing Madison Square Garden, and with the almighty Maiden to boot! They have been heroes to the band since the beginning and are iconic in our eyes. There is nothing like achieving success and recognition in your own country, in your own city. It's going to be an incredible night for sure." Portnoy has proof of this career-long dream, saying, "About a month ago, my family and I were watching a video of my first band Intruder from back in 1983, and in the video before the show, I was interviewed and asked what my dream goal was. I responded 'To play the Garden.' It took almost 30 years, but it's surreal that I will now be able to check it off the list." Dream Theater's Black Clouds & Silver Linings was released in 2009 and debuted at #6 on the Billboard Top 200 Sales chart. Tour dates for the Iron Maiden/Dream Theater run are as follows: June 9 – Superpages.com Center – Dallas, TX June 11 -The Woodlands - Houston, TX June 12 - AT&T Center - San Antonio, TX June 14 – Fiddler's Green – Denver, CO June 16 – The Pavilion (formerly Journal Pavilion) - Albuquerque, NM June 17 – Cricket Wireless Pavilion – Phoenix, AZ June 19 - San Manuel Amphitheatre – San Bernardino, CA June 20 – Sleep Train Pavilion – Concord, CA June 22 – White River Amphitheatre – Auburn, WA June 24 – General Motors Place – Vancouver, BC June 26 – Rexall Place – Edmonton, AB June 29 – Credit Union Centre – Saskatoon, SK July 3 – Molson Amphitheatre – Toronto, ON July 7 – Bell Centre – Montreal, QC July 9 – International Summer Festival – Quebec City, QUE July 11 – PNC Bank Arts Center – Holmdel, NJ July 12 – Madison Square Garden – New York, NY July 14 – Post Gazette Pavilion – Pittsburg, PA July 15 – Blossom Music Center – Cleveland, OH July 17 – DTE Energy Music Theatre – Detroit, MI July 18 – First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre – Chicago, IL July 20 – Jiffy Lube Live – Washington, DC PREVIEW NEW HARD VIDEO: Check out the video for the track Into The Fire from the new Hard album, out now in Europe via Escape Music:   JOE ELLIOTT SIDE PROJECT DUE: Def Leppard vocalist Joe Elliott is almost finished recording with his new band Down N' Outz according to guitarist Guy Griffin. Griffin, best known for his work with the Quireboys, has told Sleaze Roxx, "We've almost finished a record and who knows from there. We've played with Mott The Hoople, doing songs that Mott The Hoople hadn't done outside of Mott The Hoople like Ian Hunter and British Lions, that kind of stuff. Amazing songs that never would have been heard in this day and age, unbelievable songs. Joe Elliott really made an effort to get all these songs heard and we've pretty much finished an album. I just got one song over from Joe with his vocals on it and it sounds unbelievable. We recorded all the songs, we just send them over to Joe in Dublin." When asked what musical direction Down N' Outz would be taking Griffin responded, "It's open to whatever we want to do with it really. It's a fun thing for all of us. Spike (Quireboys vocalist) has a part in the whole thing as well. It's a side thing, and why not? What we have put on the record sounds amazing. It doesn't sound like The Quireboys and it doesn't sound like Def Leppard. It's a cross between the two and Joe sounds amazing on it." Down N' Outz are rounded out by drummer Phil Martini, keyboardist Keith Weir, bassist Ronnie Garrity and fellow Quireboys guitarist Paul Guerin. The entire Guy Griffin interview can be viewed at: www.sleazeroxx.com/interviews/guygriffin.shtml. KISS 1974 FIRST ALBUM TOUR FOOTAGE RELEASED TO PROMOTE AUCTIONS: Elements from a vintage news segment, containing never-before-available footage, from Kiss' first tour of Canada, has been posted online. The report was filmed on June 15, 1974, when Kiss were opening for the New York Dolls at Toronto's 2,800 seat Massey Hall. This clip is being released to promote a continuing series of Kiss auctions from eBay seller EliteWorks: www.youtube.com/user/EliteWorksATeBay?feature=mhw4#p/u. Several highly-sought after Kiss collectibles are featured this week: a handwritten set list from the band's legendary New Year's Eve 1973 concert at the Academy Of Music, an unused ticket and ad from Kiss's final 1983 South American concert, the KISS Solo Sampler promo LP, the Weenie Roast reunion tourbook, as well as the 1977 Thermos backpack and dozens of additional vintage 1970s Kiss items! The auctions can be viewed here: search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZeliteworks. FREE PROGRESSIVE METAL DOWNLOAD: Greetings from Silent Lapse, our album is now FREE and can be downloaded instantly here, shipped to you by clicking here, or by visiting the Discography and Merch pages! There will be a $2.63 charge to cover shipping and shipping materials if you choose to have a CD sent to you. We love this album and really believe in it. We don't want a $10 charge to stand in the way of you hearing an album that we think is one of the best! Need more convincing? Please read our 9/10 review on The Metal Observer here: Birthright Review and the Ytsejam.com review here: Birthright Ytsejam.com Review. WebLink: www.silentlapse.com. VINCE NEIL WRAPS UP SOUTH AMERICAN TOUR: After four super-successful concerts in four countries in four days, rock superstar Vince Neil was en route home to Las Vegas yesterday from his South American tour that included his first-ever appearance in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Each one of the stops – Sao Paulo; Santiago, Chile; Santa Cruz, Bolivia; and Buenos Aires, Argentina -- was a sell-out concert. Tour promoter Gabe Reed commented: 'The response by the fans to this tour was amazing. We had sold-out shows at each stop, and Vince was in great form. Now we are off to spend some beach time in Aruba!' Before Vince left for south of the border, he celebrated his birthday not only with a private dinner at N9NE Steakhouse in the Palms, but also with a mini-concert at his off-Strip Feelgood's Rock Bar & Grill. He posted a YouTube video of the Vince Neil Band playing the Motley Crue classic 'Don't Go Away Mad, Just Go Away.' Vince's new solo album Tattoos & Tequila is set for release in early May. The title track with its accompanying video are now available for free download at VinceNeil.net. Included on the CD will be covers of The Sex Pistols' No Feelings and Creedence Clearwater Revival's Who'll Stop the Rain. Vince was in the studio recording session with drummer Zoltan Chaney and Slaughter musicians Dana Strum and Jeff Blando. Vegas DeLuxe reported previously that Vince explained the album is titled Tattoos & Tequila after the two main passions of his life. He has two Vince Ink tattoo salons here, with plans to expand across the country, and he imports a tequila brand from Mexico for national distribution. WIG WAM VOCALIST TO APPEAR ON HARD ROCK NIGHTS: Glam, the lead singer for the Norwegian rock band Wig Wam, will be the special guest on Hard Rock Nights March 5-11. The singer will share details about the formation of the band several years ago, recording a cover version of former Spice Girls member Mel C.'s "I Turn To You," and the band's current release, "Non Stop Rock 'n' Roll." The new record, released on Frontiers Records, is the group's first in the United States. Hard Rock Nights is a weekly syndicated radio program heard on a number of rock and metal stations on the FM and AM dials and the internet. Visit hardrocknights.wordpress.com/affiliates for a full list of stations and airtimes. UPDATES: MR-X update online tomorrow (Tuesday). Sorry for the delay from Friday. A new CD Showcase has been added – Human Temple's new release out now via Escape Music. Check it out.

 

 

Thursday, March 04, 2010

W.E.T.CANCEL MRF APPEARANCE: It is with great regret that I must announce that W.E.T. have today cancelled their appearance at MelodicRock Fest 2 in Chicago, on Saturday May 2. It is a source of great frustration for me personally to announce this, but also for the rest of the guys, as I know they were looking forward to coming together to perform for the first time - which was to be their only live date in 2010. The reason behind the cancellation is that vocalist Jeff Scott Soto is held on retainer for Trans-Siberian Orchestra to perform in their nationwide Spring tour of North America and the dates clash. Jeff was originally not scheduled to be part of the group's upcoming Spring dates, but a change of plans now requires to join the group for a prominent role in the tour - rehearsals for which started this week in New York. This clash has also meant that Jeff has had to cancel appearances in Europe and America, including the May 1 appearance with Spike Edney in North Carolina. This cancellation also means that Eclipse – whose members are a major component of W.E.T. - will no longer be performing. It became apparent that it was not going to be economically viable to fly the guys in for just one short set on the Saturday. Jeff, Erik and Robert regret this announcement, it is unavoidable and they wish to apologise to any fans looking forward to their appearance. I am going to personally work with the guys to find an alternative opportunity in the near future for their live debut. A main feature of the Sunday line-up, the loss of W.E.T. leaves a significant gap to fill, but I believe I have the answer and will make an announcement on that in the next 24-48 hours. The Eclipse slot will be filled by reallocating time slots for the other Saturday artists. One again, my personal apologies for this issue arising and causing disruption to the MelodicRockFest event. Everyone else is locked in and ready to go for a fantastic weekend of hard rocking fun. Show Information: www.melodicrockfest.com. THE LATEST LION MUSIC ARTIST NEWS & RELEASE INFORMATION: Status Minor entered the Studio Audio in Jyväskylä, Finland on 16th of February to begin recording the sequel to their acclaimed debut 'Dialog' which was released in 2009. The man behind the sound will be Torsti Spoof. The new album 'Ouroboros' release date is set for September 2010 right after which the band will embark on the Metallia Perkele 2010 tour to promote their new masterpiece all over the Europe. The band are also immensely proud to announce that the visiting female singer to make an appearance on 'Ouroboros' is none other than amazing Anna Murphy of Eluveitie. She will lend her fantastic voice to the album and play the part of the female character of the 'Ouroboros' story. To allow fans to follow the creative process of recording the album the band have a studio diary running at: statusminorsecond.blogspot.com and in addition video journals can be viewed on YouTube. The first brace can be viewed below or at the band's YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/UnledWire. Drums - www.youtube.com/watch?v=97qv5QyMa2w Drums/Bass - www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdRSIuFEMNY. WebLinks: www.statusminor.com / www.myspace.com/statusminor.   Six years on from his last studio album Messenger Of The Gods keyboard virtuoso Mistheria is hard at work with the recording of his new 11 track neo-classical / progressive metal album entitled Dragon Fire set for release in the second half of 2010 (tbc). Mistheria, the keyboardist of choice for Bruce Dickinson on the Tyranny Of Souls album, has pulled in a number of great names for 'Dragon's Fire' in vocalists John West (Artension/ex Royal Hunt), Mark Boals (ex Malmsteen), Rob Rock (Impellitteri), Lance King, and Titta Tani (Astra). Guitars come courtesy of George Bellas (Ring Of Fire, Mogg/Way), Roger Staffelbach (Artension/Angel Of Eden), Neil Zaza and Emir Hot. The rhythm section comprises of drummer John Macaluso (Ark) and bassist Dino Fiorenza. Some working track titles for the album include Fire & Flames, Killing The Pain, The Power Of One and Chopin Fantasy with the rough demos already showing this will be an essential release for fans of early Artension, classic Malmsteen and Symphony X. Last week George Bellas recorded all his guitars and John Macaluso is currently in the process of tracking his drums and has just checked in with the following, "I just did half the tracks for Mistheria's album and it came out amazing! Over the top with heavy groove and orchestrated kicks everywhere. I've got a really fat drum sound, its like Bonham playing double bass in an orchestra. You will dig it I think!". More updates on the progress of Dragon Fire to follow soon. WebLinks: www.mistheria.com / www.myspace.com/mistheria. WORLD DOMINATION FOR ROCK SUGAR: Look out folks - here comes Rock Sugar! www.pollstar.com/blogs/news/archive/2010/03/01/711570.aspx and www.pollstar.com/blogs/news/archive/2010/03/02/711841.aspx.   TREAT FOR EUROPEAN ROCK FANS: Treat Tour Dates (w/ The Poodles, H.E.A.T.) 20.03.2010 Rock The Boat - Oslo Norway, Oslo 23.04.2010 ES-Madrid Rock Kitchen 24.04.2010 ES-Pamplona Sala Gares 25.04.2010 ES-Barcelona Salamandra 27.04.2010 D-München Backstage 28.04.2010 D-Ludwigsburg Rockfabrik 29.04.2010 CH-Pratteln Z7 30.04.2010 D-Burglengenfeld VA-Zentrum 01.05.2010 BEL-Vosselaar Biebob 02.05.2010 ITA-Bologna Sottotetto Sound Club 04.05.2010 D-Hamburg Markthalle INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Ron Keel - The Hard Rock Hideout Interview - Ron Keel has seen and done it all - musician, vocalist, song writer, lyricist, composer... and he is still writing his own legacy in 2010. Ron Keel the time out of his busy schedule to talk to HardRockHideout.com. A brief excerpt of the interview is below: HRH: I'll have to admit Ron, I really like this Streets of Rock & Roll album, it's a great album. It Rocks hard. Ron Keel: Thanks, I really appreciate that, I'm glad you enjoy it. It's an album that I have in my truck right now, a great album to listen to while taking a long drive through the desert with the windows down. People are liking it, unfortunately Streets of Rock & Roll has been downloaded illegally already. There are ten thousand illegal downloads that were aware of in the first two weeks alone. It's the other one million illegal downloads that we don't know about! HRH: That's terrible Ron, it's definitely not like the '80's anymore, where each album sold is accounted for. Ron Keel: Sure, only back in the 80's there were people out there buying chart positions. It gets real bad with how some albums got pushed up in the charts back then. It's something I might want to touch on with my autobiography that I'm working on. HRH: Sounds like you are very proud of this new album. Ron Keel: Definitely, it's a reunion album, it was the right move and I have no regrets. Streets of Rock & Roll has all the great qualities of past Keel albums, the twin guitars of Marc Ferrari and Bryan Jay trading licks, big choruses, rhythmic duo voicing's, power grooves, the lyrical content, strong attitude and fighting for what we believe in. Lot's of power. Plus there are different tempos and key grooves, a whole different feel on this new album that takes you on a journey. The strong bond and friendship among Keel shows through these songs. Life felt very natural in the studio while recording Streets of Rock & Roll. This new album would not sound as great if not for Pat Regan, he is the best in the business, his state of the art recording techniques made this album happen! You can read the rest of the interview at the following link: hardrockhideout.com/2010/02/25/ron-keel-the-hard-rock-hideout-interview. Murder of My Sweet Interview with Hardrock Haven - Angelica Rylin and Daniel Flores of The Murder of My Sweet checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about their epic new release Divanity; how the band was formed; specific tracks like Valerie and Death of a Movie Star upcoming tour plans; the debut single/video Bleed Me Dry; and a whole lot more. Angelica also freestyles some Depeche Mode at the end of the interview, something you have to hear. To hear the audio interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/the-murder-of-my-sweet/. Brian Howe says, "Bad Company Was Miserable!" - Check out Away-Team.com's exclusive interview with former Bad Co. vocalist, Brian Howe. He spills the beans on his thoughts of Bad Company, his new album, tour and a whole lot more. Head over to: away-team.com/index.php?subaction=showfull&id=1267660845&archive=&start_from=&ucat=1&. ROY Z BRINGS OUT HIS SERPENTS: Acclaimed guitarist/producer Roy Z (Bruce Dickinson, Halford, Tribe Of Gypsies) will be headlining a four-band line-up with his jam band Serpents & Rainbows this Saturday, March 6 at Paladino's, 6101 Reseda Blvd., Tarzana CA 91335. Also scheduled to appear are Deltanaut, featuring former Megadeth drummer Nick Menza, Latin rockers Son Locuas, and local heavies Shades Of Crimson. Serpents & Rainbows which feature Z, bassist Ray 'Geezer' Burke (Life After Death, Rob Rock), and drummer Pablo Torres, will be joined but special guests Mark Boals (Yngwie Malmsteen, Uli Jon Roth), Parramore Mccarty (Warrior, Steve Stevens' Atomic Playboys), Phil and Gonzo Sandoval (Armored Saint, Life After Death), and Chas West (Jason Bonham Band, Tribe Of Gypsies). For more info visit: www.paladinosclub.com. ROB DE LUCA CHECKS IN FROM THE ROAD: News from the road from guitarist Rob De Luca (Sebastian Bach/UFO) - "Hello all, it's been a busy season: The UFO fall US tour was a blast. What an incredible band! It was cool to see a bunch of familiar faces from 2008, and many new ones. Much thanks to Metallica and Bumblefoot for comin' out to watch. Extra special thanks to all the fans, you're intense dedication is so appreciated. After that, UFO headed over to Europe which completely kicked ass!! I was psyched to see Basel, Switzerland, where I'd never been. (Shout out to Vinnie Moore who's in Europe now with his solo tour- go see it!) The same day UFO finished, I flew to Finland to meet up with the Sebastian Bach Band. Our first show (on no rehearsal!) was direct support for the legendary Alice Cooper at the Esport Arena in Helsinki. Alice and band were so friendly to us and of course their show was amazing. Thanks also to Michael Monroe for joining us onstage in Turku, Finland for "Taxi Driver". We then ravaged our way across Europe. I was happy to make it to Budapest, where I'd never been. Such nice people, and of course back to Italia!!! By the time we got to Rome the BACH band was absolutely on fire! We were home for the holidays barely long enough to pet the cat, then back out on the road. This time as direct support for Guns N' Roses across Canada. I can not express how cool AXL and the gang were to us, including their crew. It's such a huge privilege to play sold out arenas and I think the fans really appreciated having two of the absolute best hard rock frontmen on one stage. I surely did!!! The GN'R show is a definite "must see" and the after parties were almost as wild as the shows. Danko Jones was the opener and is also a really good rock band of super cool people. Thank you again so much Canada!! Sebastian played a few packed out headline shows on the way home and now the Chinese Democracy/Angel Down World Tour rolls on to South America, so look out for us..... I also wanted to mention that Lovember Records has just released the debut album from my band Of Earth and made it available FREE for anyone and everyone at OfEarth.bandcamp.com. It was co-engineered by Grammy winner Tom Camuso and I think it turned out really good. Hope to see you out there, somewhere... Rob De Luca."

 

 

Wednesday, March 03, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE A NEW TESLA ALIVE IN EUROPE!: Tesla Alive In Europe released April 23. After 25 years, 12 albums, over 2,500 shows, over 16 million albums sold worldwide, Tesla is stronger than ever, on the heels of the release of one of the band's most successful studio releases to date Forever More. Continuing the momentum, Tesla: Jeff Keith (vocals), Frank Hannon (guitars), Brian Wheat (bass), Troy Luccketta (drums) and Dave Rude (guitar) have toured Europe after the successful release of their latest studio opus Forever More on Frontiers Records. As a testament to a very creative and productive chapter in the history of the band, Tesla release what can be considered a true "electric" live album recorded at various locations during the European shows in the summer of 2009. Alive In Europe! is filled with sweltering live songs including all the band's classics such as "Modern Day Cowboy", "Signs", "What You Give", "Little Suzi" and songs from the latest release such as the single "I Wanna Live", the album title track and more. A sincere and truly live sounding album which closes a chapter in the band's history and shows a vibrant band ready for the next step. Track listing: Forever More; I Wanna Live; Modern Day Cowboy; Heaven's Trail; What a Shame; Shine Away; Love Song; What You Give; The Way It Is; Breakin' Free; Hang Tough; So What!; Signs; Lil' Suzie; Into the Now. WebLinks: www.teslatheband.com * www.myspace.com/teslatheband * www.frontiers.it * www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   NEW JSS iSKINS FOR THE IPHONE AND IPOD TOUCH: Richard Mace, at Sirius-B, the designer behind all of Jeff Scott Soto's album artwork has produced a unique range of iSkins which celebrate JSS as a solo artist, as well as covering some of his most iconic bands. "I've invested a lot of time and money into getting these iSkins just the way I want them. The 3M vinyl used has a permeable membrane, invisible to the naked eye, that avoids any bubbles, unlike cheaper alternatives! They are durable and will protect your phone from scratches. They are precision laser cut to fit iPhones and the iPod Touch. They are removable, so changing designs is easy, however, if you require a more permanent fixing they can be heated gently with a hair dryer which will allow the material to shrink wrap tightly. The image resolution is superb and the gloss finish looks like the natural back to the phone or iPod." You will be supplied with a front and back as well as being sent an image via email that can be used on the screen to match the design. "This is a new business venture for me, as I just love the potential of being highly creative and individual with these items. I can provide designs for any artist, or business and customize them to any requirements". Richard is currently creating a website where he will display many of his designs. These Jeff Scott Soto iSkins have been created specifically for JSS Fans, with Jeff's approval and blessing. These iSkins will soon be available on the JSS Online store, however mailing list members will be able to order them in advance and be the first to flash them about! Orders can be placed via PayPal at: richard@sirius-b.co.uk. Each iSkin is £14.99, which includes a front and back and free image. Standard postage applies: UK 50p, Europe 75p, US and rest of the world £1.00. Please allow up to two weeks for delivery. Please indicate the product you require an iSkin for, ie. iPhone or iPod Touch and please provide an email address so that the screen image can be forwarded to you. The first 20 orders will receive a FREE 'JSS Rocks' badge. If you would like any more information regarding the JSS iSkins (no jokes about ordering four so you can call them 4Skins!) then please email: richard@sirius-b.co.uk. Standard postage applies. Please allow up to two weeks for delivery. A Sirius-B Promotion in association with JSS Promotions. Copyright 2010.   STEVE VAI'S OTHER WILD THINGS: Los Angeles, CA, February 10, 2010: Triple Grammy® Award winning guitarist Steve Vai will release a new live album, Where The Other Wild Things Are, on April 13, 2010 on his own Favored Nations Entertainment imprint. The 12-track album is the second companion CD to be released alongside the 2009 concert film "Live In Minneapolis: Where The Wild Things Are," which is currently available on DVD and Blu-ray. The DVD made a #4 debut on Billboard's Top Music DVD Chart, went Gold in both the USA and Canada and the track "Now We Run" was nominated for a 2010 Grammy® Award for Best Rock Instrumental. This new album features songs from the DVD that were not previously released on the first CD. Vai explains: "The original CD release for 'Where the Wild Things Are' consisted of songs from the concert DVD that had never been released in a live format before. It's a robust CD! The other songs that were performed at the concert but were not released on the CD were burning a hole in the hard drive and beckoning me for the light of day, so I thought, even though these songs have been released in live versions with other bands from the past, my new band with the two sweetly screaming violins gives them a whole new life. So we decided to release a second disc that contains all the tracks that were not on the first disc. And there you have it, "Where the Other Wild Things Are," and it's even 'robuster' than the first one." The live concert featured on the DVD and CDs was filmed and recorded at the historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, MN before a sold-out crowd during Vai's acclaimed 2007 String Theories World Tour. Vai chose the State Theatre for its lush acoustics and equally inspiring interior - his unprecedented guitar wizardry amazes throughout the film, as do the talents of the stellar band, an ace group of players, including two violinists, Vai put together and called String Theories. 2010 marks Steve Vai's 30th Anniversary in the music business. Vai first stepped into the spotlight in 1980 as a touring member of the legendary Frank Zappa's touring band but his indelible contribution to music came during his solo career, which includes combined sales of nearly six million albums over the last three decades. Vai is currently in the studio recording his next solo album for Favored Nations Entertainment. He will then embark on a World Tour that will take him through all of 2011. Performance Track Listing: 1. The Crying Machine 2. The Audience Is Listening 3. The Murder 4. Juice 5. Whispering A Prayer 6. Apples In Paradise 7. I'm Becoming 8. Beastly Rap 9. Earthquake Sky 10. Liberty 11. Answers 12. For The Love Of God. Where The Other Wild Things Are will be available April 13.   HALL & OATES PAY TRIBUTE TO T-BONE WOLK: Hall & Oates have paid tribute to their brother in arms - T-Bone Wolk, who died suddenly of a heart attack a couple of days back: Daryl Hall: "To say that I am shocked is the ultimate understatement. T-Bone was my musical brother and losing him is like losing my right hand. It's not if I will go on, but how. T-Bone was one of the most sensitive and good human beings that I have ever known. And, I can truly say that I loved him." John Oates: "His character was pure and his unique and quirky personality touched everyone he encountered. His musical sensibility was peerless, any instrument that he touched resonated with a sensitivity and skill level that I have never experienced while playing with any other musician. He possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of styles and musical history which he referenced to support all the artists that he played with over the years. He became our band's musical director over time leading by example and by the deference and respect that everyone who played alongside him so rightfully accorded him. He made everyone he played with better. So many times when I'm working on a musical passage or part, I think to myself: "How would T-Bone play this" and aspire to his level every time I perform. To this day I always keep one of his "I Love Vermont" guitar picks with me where ever I go and know in my heart that starting today the Heavenly Band just got one of the greatest multi-instrumentalist of all time and that band will from this day forward sound better than they ever have before." MELODIC BRIEFS: Italian Power Metal heroes Secret Sphere have been confirmed to play at the Metalfest Hungary on May 23rd 2010. The band is very excited about the chance of spreading their music even further. At the moment, Secret Sphere is touring Europe as opening band for Gamma Ray and Freedom Call on the "To The Metal" tour, taking the band to almost all corners of Europe. A new album is set to be released during 2010. WebLink: www.intromental.com. We just conducted an in-depth interview with Eric Singer, spanning many many topics. Thought it might be a possible good read for the folks visiting MelodicRock.com. We'll have a part 2 of the interview going up later this week: kissfaq.com/forum09/viewtopic.php?t=43283. Here is a lengthy interview with Steve Lukather, by Reggie Boyle, before the latest reunion news broke: www.stevelukather.net/Interview.aspx?id=88. JETBOY OFF THEIR ROCKERS!: Twenty years after the release of the highly acclaimed 'Damnednation', Jetboy has completed work on their most recent project 'Off Your Rocker'. 'Off Your Rocker' will be available on March 2, 2010 via iTunes and Amazon.com. Best described as a blend of edgy rock and roll with a traditional blues based influence, 'Off Your Rocker' is the perfect vehicle to exploit the commanding vocal styling of Mickey Finn. The three studio tracks on the EP were written in mere days, further exemplifying the fact that the music is so entrenched in passion that the writing was clearly unforced Having been absent from the studio for some 20 years, Jetboy recorded 'Off Your Rocker' in a fully organic mode. The band played all in the same room together in a "live-style" format in an effort to duplicate the way the songs were written, all together, in a true 1970's fashion where the band could feed off of one another's energy. No longer bound to the constraints of a major label like MCA records has afforded the band the freedom to make music their own way. However, freedom has its' price, and that price in the recording industry is the pressure of getting into the studio and back out again as economically as possible. "Contrary to what people may think, pressure is great for creativity" says Billy Rowe. "Off Your Rocker was recorded without all of the luxuries and creature comforts that we had when we were with MCA. So, while there was a lot more pressure and no big spread in the greenroom, this disk captures the essence of what Jetboy has been about since day one. Down and dirty rock and roll that leaves you feeling edgy and excited every time you hear it. We wanted to rock you the old fashioned way, where every time you get in your car your first priority is making sure the stereo is turned up to 10, and to hell with the temperature gauge!" Off Your Rocker: 1. Perfectly Wrong 2. Going Down (above the clouds) 3. Dogs Gotta Roam 4. High Gear (live) 5. Crank It Up (live) 6. Losin' Streak (live). WebLink: jetboyrocks.com / www.myspace.com/jetboyrocks. GLYDER YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW: Glyder has released their new album through Steamhammer / SPV. Irish band Glyder began its musical journey in 2004 at the annual Phil Lynott tribute gig "Vibe for Philo" in Dublin. Three albums and two EP's later Glyder have developed a very distinguishable and unique sound, blending their classic rock influences with a fresh and modern sound. Over the past five years Glyder have toured the UK and Europe with some of the finest names in rock, Thin Lizzy, Wishbone Ash, Dio, WASP, Thunder, Fish (Ex Marillion), Y&T, Michael Schenker, Hawkwind, Gotthard, Blue Oyster Cult and The Answer. In 2007 they played at Gods of Metal in Italy with Motley Crue and Velvet Revolver, Sweden Rock festival in 2008 with Def Leppard and Whitesnake, Raismes festival in France 2008 with Saxon and Uli John Roth and Hard Rock Hell 2 in Wales 2008 with Thin Lizzy. Glyder played their first headline tour in Spain in 2008 and headlined to 10,000 rock fans in India in October 2008 proving that they can win over any audience in any live situation. In August 2009 Glyder opened for Metallica in Marlay Park Dublin. The four piece band still have three members in their mid twenties have the musicianship and songwriting chops to match to bring their classic rock sound to audiences all over the world. The third album now ready to be released has stunning Mark Wilkinson artwork and a guest solo on the title track by one of rocks finest guitarists Dave Menketti from Y&T. Glyder release their third album "Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow" on SPV. A&R Olly Hahn: "With Glyder we signed one of the finest rock bands from Ireland. They rock, they have catchy melodies and they play live their asses off. What more can you ask for!" Reviews for their last album "Playground For Life": "With a solid twin guitar attack ripping out the harmonies with aplomb and more swagger than Clint Eastwood….the same stadium gallop and romantic nuances that Lizzy exuded with glorious result". – Classic Rock Magazine "An eight-legged gift from classic rock heaven, Glyder emerged fully-formed with their superb debut album a couple of years ago…., the follow-up is an album of great songs, great performances and, most importantly, great spirit." - Metal Hammer "Smothered with sublime harmonies and delivered with grit and precision" KKKK Kerrang "There's a reason they call it classic rock and the riffs of opener "Gamblers Blues" and the eerie atmospherics of the title track are just two examples of how songwriting will always outlive trends" - Rock Sound Magazine "The quality of the songwriting really does separate Glyder from the vast majority of up and coming acts that would be viewed as their peers, which augers extremely well for their future" - hardrockhouse.com Track Listing: 01. That Line 02. Knockout 03. Jack Strong 04. Innocent Eyes 05. Make A Change 06. Back To The Water 07. The Bitter End 08. One Of Us 09. Always The Loser 10. Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow / Bonus Tracks: 11. Time To Fly 12. All You`ve Done 13. Elverstown (instrumental). Tour Dates: 24 Apr 2010 Massafest Oostburg Oostburg, Holland / 25 Apr 2010 Bar American, Middelburg, Holland / 6 May 2010 Pub Anchor ,Stockholm, Sweden / 7 May 2010 Silja Rock Cruise, Stockholm, Sweden / 8 May 2010 Silja Rock Cruise, Helsinki, Finland / 15 May 2010, The Venue Dumfries, Scotland / 29th May, The Diamond Rock Club, Northern Ireland. WebLinks: www.glydermusic.com / www.myspace.com/glyder / www.spv.de. PRESS RELEASE - STOCKHOLM ROCK OUT FESTIVAL: After a long winter it's time to burn considerably on Walpurgis Eve and May Day with ROCK! To this two-days festival you don´t need to worry of bad weather or campsite! Under roof, near the metro and buses located in Alvik you will find the "old printing company" where Stockholm Rock Out is held for the first time on April 30 and May 1. In addition to these great bands, there will be bars, shops, tattoo artists and more. Stockholm Rock Out is an initiative by Chris Lemon from Badmouth. The Festival stellar line-up will include: --Friday April 30: Great White, KIX, Keel, Dizzy Reed of Guns'n'Roses, Tuff, Vains of Jenna, M.ill.ion --Saturday May 1: Slaughter, Steelheart, Pretty Boy Floyd, BulletBoys, Tigertailz, Crashdiet, Nasty Idols Check out the Festival link: www.sthlmrockout.com / Tickets on sale now at: www.tickster.com/sv/events/kbwjrthwtupax2k.

 

 

Tuesday, March 02, 2010

MASS DELIVER A SEA OF BLACK VIA ESCAPE MUSIC: Escape Music are excited to announce the release of the brand new Mass album Sea Of Black, set for European release on April 23. Track list: 1-Falling From Grace 2-All The Years Gone 3-The Right Side 4-Coming Home 5- Thru The Rain 6-All That I Needed 7-More Than A Friend 8-Justify 9-Ashes To Ashes 10-Till We Meet Again 11-Captain Jack (Instrumental) 13-Sea Of Black. The band is: Louis D'Augusta - Lead Vocals, Gene D'Itria - Guitars & Back up Vocals, Michael Palumbo - Bass & Back up Vocals, Joey "Vee" Vadala - Drums. Here is a full length track off the album to preview for MR readers - Download: Mass - Sea Of Black. Formed in 1980, this dedicated hard rock band from the Boston area has had numerous accomplishments. Most notably, they have sold over 100,000 albums worldwide and performed with great acts such as Hanoi Rocks, Molly Hatchet, Winger, Stryper, Cheap Trick, Girlschool, Frank Marino and Mahogany Rush, Hurricane, Grim Reaper, Steven Stills and The Ramones along with many many others. Their first self titled EP with producer Jon Mathias was recorded at The Record Plant in New York City. The EP sold over 10,000 copies in the Boston area alone, and was enough to get record companies' attention. In 1985, the band was signed to RCA records and released their first major label debut, "New Birth", produced by Tony Platt. The 45 single, "Do You Love Me", was number one for over six weeks at many radio stations along the east coast. The video for that single was also in rotation on MTV and hit Billboard's charts. In 1987, "Mass" was signed to Enigma records and released their third album/CD, "Take You Home", produced by John Rollo and "Mass". This record/CD sold tens of thousands in the United States as well as England, Japan, and other countries around the world. In 1988, "Mass" released their fourth record/CD," "Voices in the Night", on Enigma records. Michael Sweet of the band "Stryper" was the producer. Again, this CD sold well all over the world. Songs such as "Reach for the Sky", "Turn it all Around", and "Voices in the Night" were available as CD singles. Songs from this CD also appeared on various compilation CD's. That same year, "Mass" was nominated for 'Best Heavy Metal Act' at the Boston Music Awards. Mass has continually worked to improve themselves and in 2007 signed with Escape Music and the result was the highly enjoyable "Crack Of Dawn" (ESM153). This release excited old fans of the band as well as attracting many new ones. Swedish producer Martin Kronlund twiddled the knobs to make this a fine sounding CD. It's now 2010 and the band have been working harder than ever for the new release Sea Of Black, an album that is chock full of ripping guitars and driving rhythms. Mass have always been a tight sounding four piece that have excelled in great songwriting and blinding musicianship. Once again using Martin Kronlund at the production helm what we have here is a winning formula that can only enhance their popularity. Although essentially a hard rock band Mass know how to hit the right notes with a ballad or two and they pour on the passion with ease. Astounding music... With thirty years experience in this competitive world of rock music Mass has come shining through. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   ALAN PARSONS - EYE 2 EYE LIVE IN MADRID TRAILER: The Alan Parsons news item that speaks for itself! -   JEFF HEALEY'S FAREWELL CD AND DVD: Stony Plain Records announces an April 6 release date in the U.S. and Canada for Jeff Healey's final jazz studio album, Last Call, which showcases the beloved legendary musician performing the music that was his true passion in life: the classic jazz, swing and pop sounds of the 1920s-1940s. Released with the participation and support of Jeff Healey's widow, Cristie, Last Call is a 14-track collection on which Healey plays multi-tracked guitar parts, trumpet and sings. On several of the songs, he's accompanied by Ross Wooldridge on piano and clarinet and Drew Jurecka on violin. Concurrent with this CD in Canada, Stony Plain will also release, Beautiful Noise, a concert DVD featuring Jeff Healey and The Jazz Wizards, his regular jazz performance band, originally recorded for the Toronto-based TV show, "A Beautiful Noise," in January, 2006. In the U.S., the Beautiful Noise DVD will be released on March 23 and distributed by MVD Entertainment Group. Last Call was Jeff's last jazz/swing recording before his death in March, 2008 of cancer. Mess of Blues, an album of his fan-favorite blues and roots songs released shortly after he passed away, won the Blues Award for "Best Rock/Blues Release" in 2009; and the Songs from the Road live CD,released in September of 2009, won the "Recording of the Year" at the 2010 Maple Blues Awards. Last Call was recorded and mixed by long-time Healey friend and bandmate, Alec Fraser, and the package includes extensive liner notes by Colin Bray. The album features swing guitar instrumentals first recorded by Lonnie Johnson, Eddie Lang and Joe Venuti, to interpretations of songs originally done by Fats Waller, Sidney Bechet and Hoagy Carmichael. The material ranges from such standards as "Deep Purple," "Pennies from Heaven" and "Autumn in New York," to more obscure songs from the past, including "I'm Holding My Honey's Hand" and "You Can't Pull the Wool Over My Eyes." Jeff Healey even covers some tunes originally heard during the golden age of cinema, including "Hong Kong Blues" and the haunting them from the motion picture, "Laura." The new CD also includes a bonus video of "I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter" that is playable on most computers, recorded live at Healey's Roadhouse in Toronto on July 21, 2007. The Beautiful Noise concert DVD features 11 tracks with the Jazz Wizards complete six-piece lineup, none of which are included on Last Call, plus an additional interview and musical footage. Beautiful Noise was directed by Daniel K. Berman and produced by Daniel K. Berman and Paul McNulty. ROCK THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF THE 2010 VANCOUVER WINTER OLYMPIC GAMES: (New York, NY): 2010 is shaping up to be another stellar year for the Grammy-nominated Nickelback, who were recently named Billboard's 'Group of Decade.' The band has extended its Dark Horse World Tour into June. The two-month tour begins in Atlantic City on April 3 and ends in Vancouver, British Columbia on June 3. Joining Nickelback for the extended dates will be Breaking Benjamin, Shinedown and Sick Puppies. The band also rocked the Closing Ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games last night in Vancouver. The band literally lit up the stadium with their electric performance of "Burn It To the Ground," which was viewed by 60,000 in the stadium itself and a global audience that reached into the multi-millions. Of their performance, the band said, "Having the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver has been a great honour for our city and our country. To be included in the Closing Ceremony, with so many talented artists and athletes, is something we will never forget." Nickelback is one of the biggest rock bands in the world, with over 35 million albums sold. The band's latest album, Dark Horse, debuted at No. 1 on the Neilson SoundScan Top Album Chart in Canada and number two on the Billboard Top 200 Chart and has remained on the Top 200 for 66 weeks selling almost 3 million albums in the US alone. Recently Billboard's decade-end issue awarded Nickelback several accolades, including Group of the Decade, Top Adult Top 40 Artist of the Decade, Top Rock Song of the Decade for "How You Remind Me" and Top Mainstream Rock Song Artist. The band also ranked high in the magazine's 2009 wrap up, being awarded Top Rock Artist, Top Rock Album for Dark Horse, Top Alternative Artist, Top Alternative Album for Dark Horse, Top Hard Rock Artist and Top Hard Rock Album for Dark Horse. For a complete list of Nickelback's tour dates and more, please visit: www.nickelback.com. NOTEDETECTOR IPHONE APP ENABLES MUSICIANS, SONGWRITERS TO IDENTIFY AND RECORD MUSIC NOTES: If you're a musician, singer or songwriter, you've probably found yourself with a song in your head but nowhere near a studio or recorder to lay it down note-by-note....Problem solved. Enter NoteDetector, the one and only way to discover musical notes on your iPhone. Sing or play into NoteDetector and see the notes on a guitar fretboard, keyboard, sheet music or displayed in a list. Developed by SwampTechApps (www.swamptechapps.com) located in San Diego, California, the cutting edge NoteDetector application (previewed during this year's winter NAMM show in Anaheim, CA) is able to detect and record your song note-by-note exactly how you originally intended. Sing it. Detect it. Rock it. Take it on the road. Take it to the studio. Take it anywhere! The NoteDetector app -- which has quickly proven itself among a variety of musical talent -- was created by musician/songwriter Kevin Falk, a former bassist for such bands as Between the Buried and Me and Every Time I Die. As a member of the latter, he co-wrote the song "The New Black," which was featured as a bonus track on Guitar Hero 2 as well as the PlayStation 3 game, MotorStorm. "This was developed for musicians by musicians," states Falk, whose various bands over the years have performed at the same shows with the likes of Black Sabbath, Anthrax, Helmet, Bullet for My Valentine, Incubus, The Prodigy and Green Day. "Those who have used the application have immediately found it to be an invaluable and essential tool, which was certainly the intention from the very start. It's all about making the life of a musician, singer or songwriter just a little bit easier." Falk initially came up with the idea approximately five years ago while on tour. "I could never figure out notes and how to play songs by ear," he comments. "I'd always have killer riffs in my head but could seldom figure out the notes even if I recorded the riffs... It's that experience that ultimately became the inspiration for NoteDetector." The app gives users extreme flexibility with the option of saving recordings with or without note results... and if you'd like to analyze at a later time, you can do that as well. Vocalists will particularly enjoy the three settings (beginner, experienced and advanced) for their vocal ability. Available via the iTunes App store at a price of $4.99 (itunes.apple.com/us/app/notedetector/id347874117?mt=8), it's about the same cost of a quick lunch on tour, making the NoteDetector application as inexpensive as it is effective. It's estimated that over 100,000 applications are now available and that over 3 billion applications have been downloaded on iPhones since their release in June of 2007. But how many can actually change the way you work, live and create? If you're a musician, NoteDetector is likely to be one of those life-changing apps. See a video demonstration on the official SwampTechApps website at www.swamptechapps.com/ND.php and see how it can make a difference for you. The company welcomes all feedback in an effort to continually refine the NoteDetector application to perfection. As with most iPhone applications, any future updates will automatically be sent free-of-charge to those who purchase NoteDetector.

 

 

Monday, March 01, 2010

TOTO'S BRIEF EUROPEN TOUR FOR MIKE: Official Toto statement: "Toto are reforming for a brief tour this summer in Europe to honor their brother Mike Porcaro who is living with ALS (Lou Gehrig Disease). The line-up will include David Paich, Steve Lukather, Steve Porcaro, Simon Phillips, Joseph Williams and Nathan East." What can I add to this? The band is doing this to help Mike and his family in their time of difficulty. The guys are excited to have Joseph Williams back with them for these dates - Joe being a long time school friend of the guys and of Mike's in particular. You might expect to hear a lot of great Fahrenheit and Seventh One cuts plus some Luke vocal tracks and a few of the must-play hits. I think it will be great to see a change up in the set list on this occasion! There are no plans for press interviews at this time and at this time, there is no plans for reforming permanently or writing new material. All the band is looking forward to is these dates ahead, tickets for which are on sale now in some European locations. And may I take this moment to offer my personal best wishes to the great Mike Porcaro, who I had the honor of meeting in Sydney on the band's first Oz tour in 2005. AVENUE OF ALLIES MUSIC PRESS RELEASE: The first release of 2010 on Avenue Of Allies Sora – Desire And Truth is ready to rock the world. "Desire And Truth" is the follow-up to 2006's "Demented Honour", which received rave reviews globally and cemented Erol's reputation now as a lead vocalist as well as guitarist and ended up in melodicrock.com's Top 10 New Artists of that year. To match the success of his debut album, Erol took his time to work on the songs for his sophomore record. His goal was to recapture the spirit and sound of great British bands from the late 70s/early 80s such as MSG, Whitesnake, Rainbow, UFO and Gary Moore. "Desire And Truth" is heavier and more guitar oriented than the debut, yet still very melodic in terms of vocals and songwriting. The album includes some of Erol's finest work to date like the in-your-face opener "Taste of Rock & Roll", a heavy bluesy Whitesnake influenced song. The aptly titled "The Storm Has Just Begun" is equally rocking and features a stunning guitar solo. The Schenker influenced Melodic Rocker "Diamonds In The Wind" and the tongue-in-cheek "Rock & Roll Dog" are more examples of Erol's diverse songwriting skills and influences. "When You're Gone" a heartfelt ballad, and the haunting "When You Gonna Love Me" deliver the quieter moments of this fascinating new album by a fabulous guitarist and vocalist. "Desire And Truth" will be released on the 26th of February 2010 and has already received some great feedback around the world, including a 86/100 rating in the latest issue of the well respected Japanese Burrn! Magazine. Tracklist: 1. Taste Of Rock & Roll 2. The Storm Has Just Begun 3. What's It Gotta Do With You And Me 4. Winter 5. When You're Gone 6. Diamonds In The Wind 7. Invitation 8. Stop Messin' Around 9. Rock & Roll Dog 10. When You Gonna Love Me.   On the 26th of March two more great albums will follow: Sven Larsson - Sunlight And Shadow (2010) / Sven Larsson is best known for his work on the albums of the Swedish Westcoast AORsters Street Talk. Sven's solo debut "Sunlight And Shadow" is an album of excellent musicianship and well written rock songs, with a fine sense for melodies and harmonies. The record includes ultra catchy Melodic Rockers, AOR-laced tracks, Westcoast / AOR ballads while adding a little edge with a few hard rockin' Fusion-influenced cuts. Sedona - Golden Valley (2010) / Westcoast AOR always enjoyed great popularity in France, the native country of Sedona. The members of the band are accomplished instrumentalists, who also know how to sing those typical Westcoast harmonies. The songs range from rocking tracks like "Surfing State Of Mind" and "The Story", in the vein of Tim Feehan, Joseph Williams, Jay Graydon's Planet 3 and Beckett, to the mid-tempo cuts "Golden Valley" and "California Ballad" à la King Of Hearts, L.A. Cowboys and Michael Ruff. The album will also be embraced by friends of classic bands like Toto, the Little River Band, Dakota, Boulevard and Nielsen / Pearson. In May the next highlights will follow. The first international album of the Brazilian Melodic Rocker Joey Summer, "Written On The Horizon" will include a great version of the Jaded Heart song "Anymore", written by Michael Bormann. Other contributions come from Fredrik Bergh (Street Talk / Bloodbound) and Kee Marchello (ex-Europe). Special guests on the album are Michael Mueller (Jaded Heart), Michael Larsson (Coldspell) and Goran Edman (Street Talk, Glory, Yngwie Malmsteen). www.joeysummer.com. Shining Line is another great AOR project, lead by Pierpaolo "Zorro11" and Amos Monti. The album was produced by Alessandro Del Vecchio (Edge Of Forever, Glenn Hughes, Axe), mixed & mastered by Michael Voss and features lead vocals from Robin Beck, Harry Hess (Harem Scarem), Eric Martenssen (W.E.T., Eclipse), Bob Harris (Axe), Brian LaBlanc (Blanc Faces), Michael Voss, Michael Bormann, Mikael Erlandsson, Michael Shotton (Von Groove) and many more. First impressions can be heard on two different youtube-clips: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsRdXRg9o-M and www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1hjQCyhjV0. The full line-up of musicians and is available at MySpace: www.myspace.com/shiningline. WebLink: www.avenue-of-allies.com.   xxxxxx RIP T-BONE WOLK: R.I.P. Tom "T-Bone" Wolk...legendary bassist/writer/producer for many rock artists including Hall & Oates and the Saturday Night Live band. Died suddenly this weekend of a heart attack. Sad sad news - such a signature bassist. WICKED TEMPTATION PARTY & AUDIO PREVIEW: Wicked Temptation Release Party will be held on March 20 in Cologne. More info at: www.rockpapas.de. Ex-Vengeance drummer Hans in't Zandt is back on the scene! The drummer who has also played in bands as Terra Nova and Angel Dust is working his drumkit now for Wicked Temptation! Wicked Temptation is featuring Peter Wagner (ex-Powergod) on guitar, Marc Hermann (ex-Jo Hartmann Band) on bass and Dirk Hackenberg (ex-Salvage, Essex) on vocals. In the Rhein-Ruhr-area Dirk Hackenberg is also known from the cover band Powerstation with ex-Running Wild-guitarist Bernd Aufermann on guitars. The music of Wicked Temptation can be described as hard n' heavy rock of the 80ies and 90ies, in tradition of icons as Ozzy Osbourne or Dokken. CD released Friday March 12. Sample two tunes off the album - Magic and Children.   Rhine Rock Records/RockPapas are proud to sign the Goodbye Thrill vocalist Marc Ferreira exclusive for his Solo release "Working Overtime" in Europe. More news soon... MORE FOR MOONDANCE JAM: WALKER, MINNESOTA (March 1, 2010) – Collective Soul, Jonny Lang, Don Felder, Hoobastank and Blackberry Smoke have all been added to this year's Moondance Jam schedule, joining the previously-announced Lynyrd Skynyrd, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar (with Neil Giraldo) and Buckcherry. Now the country's largest classic rock festival, this year's event will take place July 14-17, 2010 in Walker, Minnesota. Tickets are available now at www.moondancejam.com or by calling 1-877-MOONJAM. Collective Soul is still touring behind its self-titled 2009 release that featured the hit single "Welcome All Again," and makes its first ever Jam appearance this year. The quintet is still best known for its massive singles "Shine," "December" and "Heavy," and has sold over eight million records in the U.S. during its 15 year career. Lang returns for the second time to Walker and the first since he won a Grammy in 2007 for his "Turn Around" record. Former Eagle Felder will perform his "Evening at the Hotel California" set that features many of his former band's greatest songs. Atlanta-based southern rocker group Blackberry Smoke is still touring behind its "Little Piece of Dixie" set, while modern rockers Hoobastank bring its big hits "My Turn," "The Reason," "Crawling in the Dark" and "Running Away" to the ever-expanding party. Tickets are now available in a variety of packages. Concert goers can purchase Rockstar All Access (with onstage viewing), three-day VIP, three-day general admission, weekend packages and single day admission, as well as camping sites and parking passes by contacting the Jam office in Walker. At the festival, general admission tickets get you front row access-there is no VIP in-front seating in Walker. An official announcement concerning the entire festival line-up is due sometime later this month. Expect 15 bands to pack the main stage over three days and many more side stage acts to be added in the coming months. The Moondance Jam has been held at the same location in Walker since 1992. This year marks the 19th edition of the festival, which was started by resident Bill Bieloh. The Moondance Jam and its sister festival, Moondance Jamming Country Fest, help bring thousands of music fans to the Walker area every summer. Its idyllic location, situated in the middle of Chippewa National Forest on a private 300-acre ranch and located on the third largest lake in Minnesota, houses thousands of camping sites during the festivals, and has been cited by many as to why they return year after year to Walker for the shows. ERIC MARTIN UPDATES FANS: A news update from Mr. Vocalist himself - Eric Martin: "I just got back from an overdue vacation with my family in Maui, Hawaii. We had a blast and really had some necessary down time; being in and out all year can be rough. It's been a long year+ with Mr. Big and Mr. Vocalist. I apologize for not answering many of your emails. It's pretty hard to get to each and every email so I thought I'd set up a live video chat and you can log in and ask away. That's much easier for me than typing! Please click here and sign up to Ustream which is where I'll host the live chat. I'll send an email through my website letting everyone know when the first chat will be. In regards to the questions about the future of Mr. Big; yes we are coming back. We all have solo obligations that need to be fulfilled so we are handling them now and will be back in full force late this year and into 2011. Asahi commercial? There has been some speculation as to whose voice that is. I can't say much right now so I'll let you decide. Stay tuned for a couple of new releases from your truly later this year." Eric Martin Band tour dates: Europe Apr 08, 2010 Eric Martin Band Borderline, Pisa Apr 09, 2010 Eric Martin Band Xroads, Roma Apr 10, 2010 Eric Martin Band Il Peocio, Trofarello Apr 12, 2010 Eric Martin Band Black Stuff, Udine Apr 13, 2010 Eric Martin Band A38, Budapest Apr 15, 2010 Eric Martin Band Salamandra, Barcelona Apr 16, 2010 Eric Martin Band Sala Rockstarlive, Bilbao Apr 17, 2010 Eric Martin Band Sala Caracol, Madrid Apr 19, 2010 Eric Martin Band Proxima, Warsaw Apr 20, 2010Eric Martin Band Studio Krakow, Krakow Apr 22, 2010 Eric Martin Band Eskulap, Poznan Apr 23, 2010 Eric Martin Band Od Now, Torun Apr 25, 2010 Eric Martin Band TBA, Bucarest South America May 21, 2010 Eric Martin Band Teatro Colegiales, Buenos Aires May 22, 2010 Eric Martin Band Hangar Bar, Curitiba May 23, 2010 Eric Martin Band Carioca Club, Sao Paulo USA Jul 09, 2010 Eric Martin Band Marinwood Park, San Rafael, CA. A SLEAZY TRIBUTE: Reborn In Sleaze: A Tribute To Dave Lepard more bands revealed. Pretty Wild (www.myspace.com/prettywildofficial) and Skull Daze (www.myspace.com/skulldazeband) will take part in "Reborn In Sleaze: A Tribute To Dave Lepard". Other artists involved include Peep Show, Johnny Burning, Bulletrain, Cyanide 4, Sex Slaves and Killer Klown. The remaining bands and final tracklist will be announced soon. Skull Daze recently inked a deal with Street Symphonies Records for the release of the group's debut album, "Skull Daze". WebLink: www.streetsymphonies.com. CHEAP TRICK'S MANAGER TRIES TO FIND A WAY AROUND THE NIELSON RACKET: Story by: Howard Wyman [Via Daily Swarm] In a fascinating post on the Tunecore blog, Tunecorner, Cheap Trick's manager Dave Frey explains how Soundscan hurts artists by compiling and then selling their information to other record labels and music sellers, who then use it to cannibalize and undercut sales of new albums by way of predatory marketing for their own cheap, outdated wares. It's an interesting and disturbing window into both the music and "information" marketplaces, how everything we do as fans — where we purchase cds or tickets or downloads, even where we read about our favorite artists — gets compiled into stats and files that are packaged and sold to whoever cares enough to pay, i.e. whoever stands to profit from such information. Yet even as Dave Frey has done his best to keep Soundscan's greasy clutches off his clients' industry whereabouts, the info-vulture still manages to purchase and re-sell enough information about Cheap Trick as to give parasitic former labels the opportunity to undercut sales of the new album (The Latest) with their own cheap re-issues and stupid repackaged "greatest hits" type crap. So, if you've ever felt lame about purchasing some generic-looking "Best Of" instead taking the leap on an actual album, now you can and should feel a little lamer. StoryLink: www.crawdaddy.com/index.php/2010/02/12/down-with-soundscan-cheap-trick-s-manager-tries-to-find-a-way-around-the-nielson-racket/

 

 

Friday, February 26, 2010

SELECT EUROPEAN DATES FOR TOTO: Yes, there is talk of some Toto live dates in Europe mid-year, but the full details have not yet been disclosed. The line-up and reason for these live dates will be announced any day now. It is not expected there will be any recording or studio work planned following these dates. FRONTIERS RECORDS TO RELEASE THE NEW ASIA ALBUM OMEGA: Asia, rock's first important super-group of the 80s - featuring members from Yes, Emerson Lake & Palmer, King Crimson and The Buggles – will release Omega, its highly anticipated new album of original material. The record is due for release April 23 in Europe & May 4 in USA on Frontiers Records. Geoffrey Downes, Steve Howe, Carl Palmer and John Wetton, the four original Asia members, reunited in 2006, twenty-three years after all four had last played together. The much publicised reunion resulted in highly successful world tours, a double live LP and DVD (entitled Fantasia: Live In Tokyo) and an acclaimed studio album Phoenix in 2008 which debuted at number 73 in the Billboard charts in the USA and entered the top 100 in several European countries. Formed at the dawn of the MTV era, Asia's first release was the best selling album in the world in 1982 and sat at the number 1 spot in the USA for 9 weeks, powered by the classic rock anthem, "Heat Of The Moment," and four other radio hits. Asia's 1983 sophomore album, Alpha, also went multi-platinum and enjoyed several hit singles, including the #1 smash, "Don't Cry". During the recording of its third disc, the band splintered, and by the 1990s, only Geoff Downes remained from the original line-up. The reunion came to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the band, but morphed itself into an ongoing endeavour. In 2008, they returned with the first new studio album, Phoenix, which had been strongly influenced by the fusion of talents and heritages that the band excited the music world with back in 1982. Omega shows a new renaissance for this amazing group of musicians, which seem to live up to a joie-de-vivre that stands the test of time. Begun during the summer 2009, the writing and recording sessions of Omega, immediately showed inspiration and good feelings. "We were looking to create something different with Omega," says keyboardist Geoff Downes. "Of course, the sound of the 4 band members of Asia will always have a certain hallmark when we play together. That's a given. But we approached the song writing with a mind to getting a degree of variety into these compositions. Hence, you will hear areas of textures where arguably we have never gone before." Adds lead vocalist/bassist/guitarist John Wetton: "Asia is an English prog-rock band with a pop edge, always has been, and hopefully always will be. Accessible, melodic, anthemic songs with great playing, luxuriating in a bed of lush orchestration, with lyrics that strike a sympathetic chord in even the most cynical heart. There you have it, Omega is a themed album in Asia's fine tradition, without the millstone of a concept." Steve Howe adds that "the whole recording process has been inspiring and rewarding, and I'm very excited about the result". "I would say these are all strong individual songs" says drummer Carl Palmer. "It was a very smooth experience, and arguably one of our best records." For the first time since the debut album, ASIA worked with an outside producer, Mike Paxman (Uriah Heep, Status Quo) who managed to create a truly special sounding album with the highs, lows and lots of dynamics. He helped the band to put together a tapestry of sound, which demonstrates the rich strata of Asia's music. Paxman was able to achieve this through the songs which spun real stories of actual events and experiences in locations around the globe. "The songs always have a message, hopefully positive," says Wetton. "My songs are almost always autobiographical, so there is hope and experience in there, too. The lyric will never leave you on a negative thought. " As with the most popular of ASIA releases, the cover art specifically designed for the project by acclaimed artist Roger Dean. The concept of the title (Omega), and the 'Year of the Tiger' referencing of the cover art underline the fact that this is real Asia. John Wetton explains: "The title 'Omega', as any fan of the band will tell you, is 'very Asia' (as is the album, by the way). It no more means 'final' than 'Alpha' means 'the first' (which it wasn't). It's a great sounding/looking word, and a bookend to 'Alpha'. In many ways, musically and conceptually, the two albums share commonality." "We are embarking on our European tour around the middle of April, then straight in to Japan for the middle of May" says Downes. "It's going to be fun working out the new setlist because obviously we have another album under our belt now with Omega." After touring Europe and Japan, ASIA will embark on a US tour late in the summer of 2010. Omega will be released in the first pressing in digipak with one exclusive bonus track: Finger on the Trigger; Through My Veins; Holy War; Ever Yours: Listen Children; End of the World; Light The Way; Emily (*); Still The Same; There Was a Time; I Believe; Don't Wanna Lose You Now. (*) Bonus track first pressing in digipak. Asia European Tour Dates: Apr. 21 - Helsinki, Finland - House of Culture Apr. 22 - Moscow, Russia - B1 Club Apr. 24 - Rome, Italy - Auditorium Apr. 26 - Prague, Czech Republic - Lidovy dum Kbely Apr. 27 - Winterthur, Switzerland - Salzhaus Apr. 28 - Graz, Austria - Orpheum Apr. 30 - Paris, France - Casino De Paris May 1 - Uden, Netherlands - de Pul May 2 - Asschaffenburg, Germany May 3 - Nuremburg, Germany - Hirsch May 4 - Pratteln, Switzerland - Z7 May 6 - Reichenbach, Germany - Die Halle May 7 - Bochum, Germany - Zeche Prinz-Regent-Strasse 50-60 May 8 - Osnabruck, Germany - Rosenhof Rosenplatz 23 May 9 - Bonn, Germany - Bruckenforum For All Things ASIA, please visit: www.originalasia.com. For additional information please visit: www.myspace.com/originalasia, www.frontiers.it or www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx AEROSMITH ALL COPASETIC: Press Release / After turmoil that included public squabbling, threats of a lineup change and a rehab stint, Aerosmith is back and ready to rock. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famers have announced their "Cocked, Locked and Ready To Rock" European summer tour—with Steven Tyler. The band made the announcement Thursday. It also posted a video on its Web site in which Tyler, sitting with the rest of the band, jokes: "I just auditioned and I got the gig." "We're coming your way and rocking your world! Look out because here we come," he says as he looks at guitarist Joe Perry and the group breaks out in laughter. Aerosmith, which has been one of rock's enduring bands over the past three decades, has been in limbo since Tyler fell off a stage during an August concert in South Dakota, injuring himself and forcing the band to cancel the rest of their summer tour. After that, Perry expressed anger that the group had been sidelined and said Tyler needed to get his act together. For his part, Tyler was quoted as saying he was interested in going solo, and soon the band was talking about replacing Perry with another singer. In December, Tyler checked in to rehab for a painkiller addiction, a problem he blamed on years of injuries suffered while performing with the band. In an interview this week, bandmate Joey Kramer said: "Everything right now in Aero-land is very copasetic. ... We will carry on and do what we do best." As far as their latest drama, he said: "The one common denominator that we still all have is that we all love to get up on stage and rock out, play music and bring joy to people. And we let the other drama, as of late, kind of filter itself out by the wayside and concentrate on more of what's important, which is the playing and the business at hand." The band, best known for hits like "Walk This Way," has a long history of discord and overcame heavy drug abuse in the 1970s and early 1980s, but has been a mainstay in rock since enjoying a revival more than two decades ago. Their tour starts in Sweden on June 10. BRAZEN ABBOT LIVE ON DVD: Brazen Abbot's DVD Live At Berkrock is now available online via the bands website: www.brazenabbot.nostramusic.com. Nikolo Kotzev remains true to his philosophy - the concert hasn't been tempered with in the studio, so the live atmosphere is kept intact and the performance is as real as can be. Nikolo Kotzev is back on track with his mega project Draconia for eight singers, band and symphonic orchestra. draconia.nostramusic.com. Kotzev has written the story himself and it is available online. Thus far, only one singer has been confirmed for the project: Göran Edman will sing the role of the Storyteller. Draconia was temporarily put on ice when Nikolo got commissioned to compose a classical opera for the Finnish opera foundation "Joel". The classical opera was played last Summer with a great success and was released on a double CD and DVD: home.aland.net/smedros/joel/index_en.html. Meanwhile in November 2009 Nikolo Kotzev got his PHD in Musicology and Musical arts. At the moment he is working on completion of the Draconia project. Please, feel free to change and edit whatever you think needs editing…The online shop is now active, so you could put up the banner any time. It should lead to the BA site: www.brazenabbot.nostramusic.com.   FIFTH ANGEL TAPS JEFFREY MCCORMACK AS NEW DRUMMER: Press Release / Fifth Angel is pleased to announce that Jeffrey McCormack will be handling drum duties for the band. A sought-after studio/touring musician from the Seattle area, McCormack joins Ed Archer (guitars), John Macko (bass), Kendall Bechtel (guitars) and Tim Branom (lead vocals) to complete Fifth Angel's lineup. Jeff's studio and touring experience is a positive addition to Fifth Angel, said Archer. It's a tall order learning the drum parts our former bandmate Ken Mary put down, and Jeff has approached the challenge head-on. We're all on the same page and can't wait to see what the future holds for Fifth Angel. Jeff was one of many musicians that called the famous Music Bank studio in Seattle home in the late 1980s. McCormack cut his teeth with many of Seattle's elite musicians, including the late Layne Staley and Jerry Cantrell from Alice in Chains, John DeVol (Culprit) and even Fifth Angel's current vocalist Tim Branom, just to name a few. Since 1992, Jeff has been featured on over 60 CDs worldwide. He's performed all across the United States, Canada, Europe and parts of Russia. In addition, fans may remember McCormack from his touring stint with classic metal legends Heir Apparent, as the band played sold out shows in Germany and Greece in recent years. But Fifth Angel was always a part of Jeff's musical style and aspirations. Everyone has a soundtrack to their lives and Fifth Angel was a huge part of mine, McCormack explained. The music on the albums Fifth Angel and Time Will Tell was a huge influence on me as a drummer and playing for Fifth Angel is honestly a dream come true. I can't wait to rock these songs live. Fifth Angel will make its live debut at the Keep it True XIII festival in Lauda-Kanigshofen, Germany, on April 23 and 24, 2010. For more information on Fifth Angel, visit www.fifthangel.com. THE MILESTONES SET A MILESTONE WITH DEVIL IN ME: Helsinki-based band The Milestones, who has tried to find the real roots of rock and roll throughout their career, has released their robust third album 'Devil In Me'. They've got the feeling that they finally found something magical; their own sound without forgetting where we come from. Bold, soulful and groovy are the words to describe The Milestones whose 70's influences include pioneers such as The Allman Bros, AC/DC and Bad Company. The rootsy sound of The Milestones is built on Olavi Tikka's recognizable voice, in which you can hear hints of David Coverdale and Paul Rodgers. Together with two perfectly interacting guitars and a ballsy rhythm section the band can do no wrong. The Milestones has played around 200 shows in Finland and Europe and done supporting for acts such as Whitesnake, Deep Purple, Black Stone Cherry, Gary Moore and D.A.D. The album is now available at www.musicbuymail.eu or lots of other fine rock shops around the world. MARC FERRARI TO APPEAR ON HARD ROCK NIGHTS: Guitarist Marc Ferrari of the band Keel will be the special guest on Hard Rock Nights, February 26-March 4. Keel has just released the all-new "Streets Of Rock & Roll" and the 25th anniversary edition of their cult classic "The Right To Rock" on Frontiers Records in the U.S. Ferrari will talk about the new record and reunion with Ron Keel, as well as recount some memories from two decades ago as it relates to Keel and Cold Sweat. Ferrari will also discuss how he became involved in scoring for film and television. Hard Rock Nights is a syndicated radio program heard weekly on a number of rock and metal stations. Visit: hardrocknights.wordpress.com/affiliates for a full list of stations and airtimes. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new features - Best Of AOR Compilations: Swedish Melodic Hardrock Anthems, MTM Ballads 3 and MTM Music Volume 3. By Request - Tour De Force - World On Fire New Video Clips: Blanc Faces - Falling From the Moon, Giant - Promise Land, Outloud - We Run, Places of Power - In Your Wildest Dreams, Robert Berry - Wait and Steve Lukather - Ever Changing Times. MR-X Membership Details. NEW REVIEWS ONLINE: New Reviews online today for the following releases: Wig Wam, Keel, Bruce Kulick, Last Autumn's Dream, Rock Sugar, Tara's Secret, Grand Design, The Murder Of My Sweet and Secret Smile. Read The Reviews Now.

 

 

Thursday, February 25, 2010

METAL HEAVEN - APRIL RELEASES REVEALED: Chris Laney - Only Come Out At Night / release date: April 23 / Chris Laney is a guitarist and singer who´s been a member in bands like Randy Piper's Animal, Zan Clan and many more. Chris Laney is also known as a brilliant songwriter and producer. He is working as a producer at legendary Polar Studios in Stockholm, Sweden. Chris Laneys´ first solo-album Pure was released in March 2009, it was highly welcomed and gave him a firm and increasing fan-base. This new album Only Come Out At Night is a natural continuation of the path set with the first album. Just as on the first solo-album, Chris Laney invited some of his friends to work with him on Only Come Out At Night. For instance Bruce Kulick (Kiss), Brian Robertson (Thin Lizzy, Mötörhead), Conny Bloom (Hanoi Rocks, Electric Boys), Ian Haugland (Europe), Zinny Zan (Shotgun Messiah, Zan Clan), Nalle Grizzly Påhlsson (Therion, Treat, Randy Piper´s Animal) and a few others contributed on Only Come Out At Night. During the year since Pure was released Chris Laney has made a mini-tour, but mostly he´s been hiding out in the dungeons of Polar Studios recording and mixing Candlemass, mixed live for Europe, recorded and mixed Brian "Robbo" Robertson, produced and mixed Casablanca, produced and mixed Crazy Lixx, mixed H.E.A.T. song 1.000 miles (wich was the most played song in Swedish radio 2009)… as well as mixing, producing, recording for tons of other artists. In December 2009 Chris Laney was nominated for yet another Swedish Grammy's for his work with the Candlemass album Death Magic Doom. Chris Laney has won two Grammys and been nominated for several others. In February 2010 Chris Laney got endorsed by Rockstar energy drink. Chris Laney uses Hughes & Kettner amps and Only Come Out At Night is mostly recorded on the Coreblade model. Tracklist: 1. Only Come Out At Night, 2. Love So Bad, 3. Rockstar, 4. B4 It's 2Late, 5. Eyes Out Poppin', 6. One Kiss Tonight, 7. Gotta Run, 8. Playing With Fire, 9. Crush, 10. I Had Enuff, 11. Day. WebLinks: www.chrislaney.com.   xx Bangalore Choir - On Target / release date: April 23 / In 1990 David Reece (ex Accept) and drummer Rusty Miller were ready to form a heavy but melodic Rock n Roll band named Bangalore Choir in Los Angeles, USA. A place to look for great guitar players was the GIT in Hollywood, and so John Kirk and Danny Greenberg were found. Sharing the same musical vision the writing began. First songs were 'All or Nothin' and 'Slippin Away', both on the 'On Target' release. While rehearsing, John mentioned the guitarist Curt Mitchell who had worked with a previous group out of Reno, NV called Razormaid. Rusty Miller and the group parted ways, new drummer Darek Thomas Cava (ex Brunette) replaced him. After a couple shows the band had offers from almost every label in town and settled with Giant Records and recorded 'On Target' released 1991/1992. 2010 sees the re-issues of this record on AOR Heaven. Re-mastered by Martin Kronlund in Sweden, this album now also includes a video clip of the song "Loaded Gun" as a bonus. Bangalore Choir are currently recording a new album which will be released later this year on the same label. Track list: 1. Angel in Black 3:28, 2. Loaded Gun 3:47, 3. If the good die young (we'll live forever) 4:26, 4. Doin' the Dance 4:09, 5. Hold on to You 4:09, 6. All or Nothin' 3:11, 7. Slippin' Away 4:08, 8. She can't Stop 3:40, 9. Freight Train Rollin' 3:34, 10. Just one Night 3:47.   xx FRONTIERS RECORDS - ARTIST TOUR DATES: Asia Tour Dates Apr. 21 - Helsinki, Finland - House of Culture Apr. 22 - Moscow, Russia - B1 Club Apr. 24 - Rome, Italy - Auditorium Apr. 26 - Prague, Czech Republic - Lidovy dum Kbely Apr. 27 - Winterthur, Switzerland - Salzhaus Apr. 28 - Graz, Austria - Orpheum Apr. 30 - Paris, France - Casino De Paris May 1 - Uden, Netherlands - de Pul May 2 - Asschaffenburg, Germany May 3 - Nuremburg, Germany - Hirsch May 4 - Pratteln, Switzerland - Z7 May 6 - Reichenbach, Germany - Die Halle May 7 - Bochum, Germany - Zeche Prinz-Regent-Strasse 50-60 May 8 - Osnabruck, Germany - Rosenhof Rosenplatz 23 May 9 - Bonn, Germany - Bruckenforum Treat Tour Dates 20.03.2010 Rock The Boat - Oslo Norway, Oslo 24.04.2010 Sa ES-Madrid Penelope 25.04.2010 So ES-Barcelona Salamandra 27.04.2010 Di D-München Backstage 28.04.2010 Mi D-Ludwigsburg Rockfabrik 29.04.2010 Do CH-Pratteln Z7 30.04.2010 Fr D-Burglengenfeld VA-Zentrum 01.05.2010 Sa BEL-Vosselaar Biebob 02.05.2010 So ITA-Bologna Sottotetto Sound Club 04.05.2010 Di D-Hamburg Markthalle 06.05.2010 Do SWE-Gothenburg Sticky Fingers 07.05.2010 Fr SWE-Stockholm Silja Cruise Primal Fear tour dates 06.03.2010 GER - Esslingen - Komma / Rock For One World 26.03.2010 LUX - Moutfort - Kulturzentrum 07.04.2010 SWE - Gävle - Maxim 08.04.2010 SWE - Sweden Rock Cruise 20.05.2010 USA - New York, NY @ Gramercy 21.05.2010 USA - Springfield, VA @ Jaxx 22.05.2010 USA - Worcester, MA @ The Palladium 23.05.2010 CAN - Quebec City, QC @ Imperial 24.05.2010 CAN - Toronto @ Opera House 26.05.2010 USA - Cleveland, OH @ Peabody's 27.05.2010 USA - Detroit, MI @ Blondie's 28.05.2010 USA - Louisville, KY @ Phoenix Hill Tavern 29.05.2010 USA - Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave 30.05.2010 USA - St Paul, MN @ Station 4 01.06.2010 USA - Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater 03.06.2010 USA - Seattle, WA @ El Corazon 04.06.2010 USA - Portland, OR @ Peter's Room 05.06.2010 USA - San Francisco, CA @ Slim's 06.06.2010 USA - Santa Ana, Ca @ Galaxy Theatre 08.06.2010 USA - West Hollywood, CA @ House of Blues 09.06.2010 USA - Mesa, AZ @ U.B.'s 10.06.2010 USA - Tucson, AZ @ The Rock 12.06.2010 USA - Houston, TX @ Meridian 13.06.2010 USA - Austin, TX @ Emo's 19.06.2010 F - Clisson - Hellfest Open Air 17.07.2010 CZ - Vizovice - Masters Of Rock 06/07.08.2010 GER - Wacken - Open Air Winger Tour dates 19 mar 2010 Lekneshallen (Lofothallen) Leknes, Norway 20 mar 2010 Rock The Boat - Oslo Norway, Oslo 22 mar 2010 Bristol O2 Academy 2 - Bristol, UK 23 mar 2010 Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms - Portsmouth, UK 24 mar 2010 Manchester Academy 3 - Manchester, UK 26 mar 2010 Dudley JB's - Dudley, UK 27 mar 2010 Belfast Spring & Airbrake - Belfast, UK 28 mar 2010 Glasgow Cathouse - Glasgow, UK 30 mar 2010 Newcastle O2 Academy2 - Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK 31 mar 2010 Leeds Rio's - Leeds, UK 2 apr 2010 Sheffield Corporation - Sheffield, UK 3 apr 2010 Nottingham Rock City - Nottingham, UK 4 apr 2010 London Islington O2 Academy - London, UK 6 apr 2010 Matrix - Bochum, Germany 7 apr 2010 Columbia Club - Berlin, Germany 8 apr 2010 Backstage - Munich, Germany 10 apr 2010 Colos Saal - Aschaffenburg, Germany 2 may 2010 Roadhouse - MelodicRockFest Two - Elgin, Illinois 16 jun 2010 Fate Lounge - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 18 jun 2010 Penn's Peak Concert Hall - Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania 19 jun 2010 M3 Rock Festival - Columbia, Maryland 20 jun 2010 B.B. King's Blues Club & Grill - New York, New York 24 jun 2010 Cowboys Concert Hall - Colorado Springs, Colorado 25 jun 2010 Grizzly Rose - Denver, Colorado 24 jul 2010 Midwest Rockfest - Wichita, Kansas 7 aug 2010 Kiwanis Park - Sheboygan, Wisconsin 9 aug 2010 Ocean City Music Pier - Ocean City, New Jersey Rick Springfield tour dates June 11 Sweden Rock Festival - Solvesborg, Sweden June 12 Rockefeller Music Hall - Oslo, Norway June 13 Weingarten Open Air Festival - Weingarten, Germany Stockholm Rock Out Festival Friday April 30: Great White, Kix, Keel, Dizzy Reed of Guns 'n' Roses, Tuff, Vains of Jenna, M.Ill.Ion. Sweden Rock Festival ­ Sölvesborg June 9-12, 2010 Among other bands confirmed (Aerosmith, Guns 'N' Roses, Ratt, W.A.S.P, Slayer etc.) Cinderella, Jorn, Rick Springfield, Y&T. Lynch Mob European tour dates TBA soon! Here is the latest link for the new Frontiers promo spot:   CINDERELLA TO SWEDEN ROCK FESTIVAL: In the 80s, Philadelphia's Cinderella was one of the most lauded and successful bands in glam oriented metal. Their debut "Night Songs" arrived in 1986 to become an instant mega-success. Main characteristics included Tom Keifer's unmistakable vocals, highly impressive songs and unusually prominent blues influences. The latter became increasingly dominant on the succeeding "Long Cold Winter" (1988) and "Heartbreak Station" (1990). After the raunchier "Still Climbing" (1994) Cinderella were forced to take an extended break, since their music no longer had any support from the music industry. Now the band finally make their serious comeback, with their classic line-up intact: Tom Keifer (vocals, guitar), Jeff LaBar (guitar), Eric Brittingham (bass) and Fred Coury (drums). So many of you have longed to see Cinderella at SRF - 2010 is the year when it happens. And it will be the band's only Scandinavian appearance this year, as you may have guessed. WebLink: www.swedenrock.com. STAN BUSH CLASSIC BACK ON TV: Stan Bush sent me this note this week to post: "The Touch will air Sunday March 28 on American Dad (Fox)! Stan Bush's rock anthem "The Touch" from the original Transformers Movie, was recently out on Guitar Hero WT, was also featured on Chuck (NBC), in the film Boogie Nights, and in two Hasbro Transformers toys. Look for Stan's new album "Dream the Dream" to be released this summer (2010). Info at: stanbush.com. PURRFECT TIMING TALKS MELODICROCKFEST: Purrfect Timing airs Live each week on ARfm London but our home base is sweet home Chicago....and so is this year's Melodic Rock Fest! Please join us this Saturday, Feb 27th from 6-8pm Central where we will be talking Melodic Rock Fest, our guests will be Reb Beach of Winger and Mike Eden from Eden's Curse. Long live melodic rock! Links: www.arfm.co.uk / www.purrfecttiming.com / www.melodicrockfest.com / www.wingertheband.com / www.edenscurse.com. AUDIOVISION: "FOCUS" RELEASE DATE AND DETAILS REVEALED: The Swedish melodic metal band Audiovision will release their second album Focus in Europe and North America on April 23rd through Ulterium Records. The album was produced and mixed by Erik Martensson [W.E.T., Eclipse] and mastered by Micke Lind [DIO, Candlemass, Talisman]. "Focus" is a high quality melodic metal release influenced by bands like Whitesnake, DIO, Rainbow, Europe, Gotthard and Stryper, and fans of the genre won't be disappointed! "Focus" track listing: 01. Invitation 02. Keep The Fire Burning 03. We Are Not Alone 04. The Son Will Come 05. You Are The Reason 06. Fruit Of Love 07. We Will Go 08. I Will Belong To You 09. The Way 10. The Gate 11. Focus. The official release party for "Focus" will be held at The Cave Rock Club in Sundbyberg, Sweden on April 24th together with the bands House of Shakira and Mercury Fang. Head over to the bands official MySpace profile to check out the entire opening track "Invitation" as well as some samples from the album: www.myspace.com/audiovisionsweden.   ROMEO'S DAUGHTER LIVE IN THE UK: Much loved UK rock band Romeo's Daughter are to perform at Winstanley College on Thursday July 8th. The concert will provide our students with vital work experience in the many projects this event has generated. The concert will be filmed by our Media students, which will be broadcast live on a webstream. The recording will then be edited and packaged for a DVD release by our Creative and Media Diploma students. There will also be opportunities for students to gain vital experience in photography, stage management, lighting and sound engineering whilst working with a top professional band. Also, there will be a fantastic opportunity for some students to showcase their talents as support to Romeo's Daughter. Tickets are extremely limited as the majority of the audience will be filled with students and staff of Winstanley College, but if you do wish to attend then Romeo's Daughter will be selling tickets on their official website: romeosdaughter.co.uk for just £15.

 

 

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

xx I am very excited to announce another frontline act for MelodicRockFest 2 in Elgin, IL, May 1 and 2. Joining the line-up and performing on Saturday May 1 is the wonderful Pride Of Lions, featuring vocalist Toby Hitchcock and the legendary Jim Peterik (Survivor, Ides Of March, World Stage). The band will add event more prestige to the event and boosts the great value of the Saturday line-up, which is headlined by Y&T and Danger Danger. And joining the ever expanding list of guests for the Friday April 30 VIP and Meet & Greet Night (part of the VIP ticket package) for an exclusive performance is Goodbye Thrill, who impressed many at MRF1 in 2007. Friday's event is headlined by Alias (Freddy Curci & Steve DeMarchi) and Mecca. Tickets are on sale via PayPal right here, right now and an agent for phone sales is being set up for those without PayPal or a preference for that method of payment. Stay tuned for details. Any questions - as always - let me know. Full updated show details at: www.melodicrockfest.com     MRF 2 VIP WEEKEND PASS Fri/Sat/Sun General Admission US$175 === LIMITED! === Saturday/Sunday - 2 Day Pass General Admission US$100   Saturday May 1 General Admission US$55.00   Sunday May 2 General Admission US$55.00

MEATLOAF HANG'S HIS TEDDY OUT TO DRY: I'm not sure why Meat Loaf's Teddy Bear needs to hang cool, but perhaps all will be revealed when the master of pomp releases his new studio album Hang Cool Teddy Bear on April 19. The track listing is yet to be revealed, but the album comes in standard CD, Double CD, Deluxe Box Set and LP versions. The 2CD and Box Set versions add a hard cover book according to some reports. Artwork below...   MORE LIMITED LP RELEASES INCOMING: Inner Wound Recordings are proud to announce two up-coming releases on the label. The albums Giant - Promise Land and W.E.T. - W.E.T. will be released as limited 12" picture-disc editions. Both releases will be strictly limited; Giant to 275 copies and W.E.T. to 300 copies. A deal was inked with the Italian label Frontiers Records and the release date for both discs is set to April 9. The discs are available for pre-ordering at www.innerwound.bigcartel.com. Promise Land / Side A 01. Believer 02. Promise Land 03. Never Surrender 04. Our Love 05. Prisoner Of Love Side B 01. Two Worlds Collide 02. Plenty Of Love 03. Through My Eyes 04. I'll Wait For You 05. Dying To See You 06. Save Me.   xx W.E.T. / Side A 01. Invincible 02. One Love 03. Brothers In Arms 04. Comes Down Like Rain 05. Running From The Heartache 06. I'll Be There Side B 01. Damage Is Done 02. Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 03. One Day At A Time 04. Just Go 05. My Everything 06. If I Fall. For more information, visit Inner Wound Recordings at MySpace: www.myspace.com/innerwoundr.   xx ROCK SUGAR FOR DOWNLOAD PETITION!: There is a movement afoot trying to get enough people to join the "Rock Sugar for Download 2010" Facebook group so that the organisers have to take notice! They are apparently already interested in Rock Sugar and have asked people what they think, so go ahead and give them a hand at: www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=293268785858. Rock Sugar Feature Interview coming up shortly!

 

 

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

ROCKLAHOMA CHANGES COURSE: As predicted right here last year, the Rocklahoma Festival in Pryor, Ohio has marked its third yet with a dramatic change of course. Organizers have dumped most of the melodic/hard rock acts the annual festival was building itself around and will instead push forward with a mainly modern rock line-up. Headliner is ZZ Top and Tesla and Cinderella are also on the bill, but that's about where the melodic edge ends. Also on the bill is Godsmack, Saliva, Theory Of A Deadman, Buckcherry, Saving Abel, Chevelle, Burn Halo and more. A full run down of the event can be found at: www.rocklahoma.com. HORROR ROCK ICONS ROB ZOMBIE AND ALICE COOPER TO SHARE STAGE: (New York, NY) – It's a bill that fans of horror and hard rock could only dream of until now: Rob Zombie and Alice Cooper sharing the stage for a night of theatrical rock n' roll madness. For the first time ever, the "gruesome twosome" will play an exclusive limited run of North American tour dates beginning April 26th at the MTS Center in Winnipeg, MB. Rob Zombie commented, "The dream or the nightmare comes true! Me and The Coop have been talking about touring together for the last 15 years and finally the moment is here. This will be without a doubt a Rock 'N' Roll Spooktacular for all the Cool Ghouls." Alice Cooper added, "I'm looking forward to theses concerts with Rob. It's sort of like Dracula Vs. Frankenstein. We're like this generation's classic monsters. When we're not onstage frightening audiences, we'll be backstage trying to scare each other." Following the dates with Alice Cooper, Rob Zombie and longtime bandmates guitarist John 5, bassist Piggy D and drummer Tommy Clufetos will hit the road for an extensive North American trek to co-headline this year's Mayhem Festival (visit: www.robzombie.com or www.myspace.com/robzombie or please see below for all tour dates). It's been a busy year for multi-platinum hard rock artist and filmmaker Rob Zombie. Zombie's brand new album Hellbilly Deluxe 2 just debuted at #8 on the Billboard Top 200 Album chart, marking his second Top Ten debut in 6 months. The Zombie-helmed Halloween 2 landed at #3 at the box office in August, 2009 and went on to become one of the biggest horror movies of the year, grossing more than $37 million to date. Zombie will make his television directorial debut with an episode of CBS' highly-rated show CSI: Miami set to air on Monday, March 1st at 10:00PM, EST. Alice Cooper is the host of Nights with Alice Cooper, produced and distributed by the United Stations Radio Networks. Alice anchors 30 hours per week of original Classic Rock programming. Alice's time slot reaches 1.1 million listeners (12+) each week, and his affiliates have a weekly reach of over 6 million listeners. For more facts, figures, fans, features and fun go to www.nightswithalicecooper.com. CLASSIC DOKKEN LINE-UP SET TO TRY AGAIN: Lifted from Blabbermouth earlier today - Classic Dokken line-up set to return: Sunday, February 21, guitarist George Lynch (Lynch Mob, Souls Of We, Dokken) was interviewed by host Jim Alvino on the "Turn It Up" show on the WSCA 106.1 FM radio station. Topics of discussion included new albums by Souls Of We and Lynch Mob; songwriting; recording with other artists; and Lynch Mob's November 2009 West Coast shows as the support act for Dokken. During the chat, Lynch also revealed that he has been writing songs for a new Dokken album with the band's classic 1980s lineup. An excerpt from the interview follows below. Turn It Up: The shows that you did at the end of last year, with Lynch Mob opening for Dokken, and at the end the classic lineup of Dokken playing together again, has that now blown up into that lineup working together again? George Lynch: "Yes, actually it has. And that's something that isn't gonna happen for a little while. We all have our respective commitments, meaning Jeff, Mick, Don and myself are all real busy this year doing other things. But we've all made a commitment to each other to dedicate ourselves to getting back together. We've already got three songs on the table and we're gonna continue to write throughout the year and put the whole business together and probably go in the studio late fall or early winter of this year and then have a record out toward late spring of next year, and then hit the road." The entire 27-minute interview in which Lynch discusses the new Dokken material offers an update on Souls Of We will be re-aired during "Turn It Up" on Saturday, February 27 at 6:00 p.m. EST. INTRODUCING SWEET SOUNDS MUSIC: Press Release / Sweetsounds Music (USA) is pleased to announce the formation of a worldwide record label! We have major worldwide digital distribution with Island/DefJam, Interscope/Republic, Ktel Catapult Distribution and other digital partners and physical distributors. Current signed artists include HZG (Herman Rarebell's touring band), Strikeforce (Midwest metal veterans), Axeticy (power metal), Undying Allegiance (modern alternative rock), The Eden Project (Britney Fox members new project), Tribes Of Man (California heavy metal). We are currently accepting music from hard rock, metal, modern, alternative rock acts that want to get signed! Must be killer! Check out our label site at www.sweetsounds.us.   EXCLUSIVE EPs BUNDLED WITH SWEDEN ROCK MAGAZINE: Sweden Rock Magazine are offering readers of MR.com direct access to copies of Sweden Rock Magazine #68, which is the only place where you can get hold of the new EP from Heat Beg, Beg, Beg. Available to all countries. To order the magazine/EP within Sweden the price is 69 Sek, in Europe 12 Euro and rest of the world 14 Euro. Place the order by sending an e-mail to prenumerationer@swedenrock.com. The guys accept PayPal. Sweden Rock Magazine #69 (available the 2nd of March) will feature a similar EP as the Heat EP, but this time with Crashdiet. It will be a 3 song EP this time as well where two are bonus tracks that won't be available anywhere else. If anyone would like to order that issue, the prices are the same as with #68.   xxxx In related news - Swedish glam rockers Crashdiet will release their new studio album Generation Wild April 14, with a single due out next week. Generation Wild official track listing: 01. Armageddon 02. So Alive 03. Generation Wild 04. Rebel 05. Save Her 06. Down With The Dust 07. Native Nature 08. Chemical 09. Bound To Fall 10. Beautiful Pain. EDEN'S CURSE ON THEIR WAY TO TRINITY: An update from bassist Paul Logue on the writing stage for the new Eden's Curse album Trinity. Says Paul: "A little update on the writing - Just finished the epic 7 min. track Jerusalem Sleeps. There is even a Sitar in there. Around 10 songs completed - another 5 or so to finish then we pick final 13 to record. Ale produced a stunning intro which I added some movie type SFX to. It will be called Trinitas Sanctus. Answers on a postcard please and it has nothing to do with the mighty Edguy! More updates soon." ARTISTSHARE ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF ARTISTSHARE FOR SONGWRITERS: News from vocalist Tony Harnell: "I am pleased to announce that I am one of a small group of artists involved in the launching of ArtistShare for Songwriters! This new platform will allow my fans to follow the creative process of their favorite songwriters and watch as tomorrow's hit songs come to life. In addition to myself, also participating in the launch of ArtistShare for Songwriters are, former Spin Doctors lead singer, Chris Barron, sultry singer Dana Fuchs (The Janice Joplin character from the film Across The Universe), singer/songwriter Kate Schutt, and up-and-coming singer Abby Bernstein. I am honored to be able to share with you the unique and personal journey of songwriting. Through this project, you will be able to experience the creative process of of a new song from my first idea to it's final incarnation and all the stages in between! By participating in my songwriter fan-funded project, you will receive exclusive credit listing, a limited-edition recording of the song, regular video, audio, and picture updates, and you'll be the first to download the song once it has been completed. This could be a rough demo or a fully produced recording. Point is you will hear the song completed at the end in one form or another and you, the participant will be the first ones to hear it. You could consider that I am writing this song for you. It will likely be on my upcoming studio album and you will hear it in it's roughest form, Cool eh? This is a really exciting opportunity to work with a progressive music company that has redefined how the music business works in today's new internet based world. With several Grammy wins already under their belts and more nominations for this year's awards, ArtistShare is a new model for the future and I am proud to be involved with an innovative company such as this. To find out more about my ArtistShare for Songwriters project and how you can get involved click here: songwriter.artistshare.com/tonyharnell. SONGVEST TO PARTNER WITH STRYPER FOR SONG RIGHTS AUCTION: Madison, WI – February 16, 2010 – SongVest, the company that reinvented the music memorabilia business by offering the ultimate fan collectable -- the songs themselves -- has announced their next major online auction will take place March 6 - 13 at www.songvest.com and will include "Alive", a new song from Christian hard rock icons Stryper. The band's lead singer and the song's writer, Michael Sweet, has partnered with SongVest to offer fans, collectors, and investors two unique packages to bid on: The Multi-Platinum Edition will include: · 40% of Michael Sweet's Writer's Share of the song's royalties · Private dinner for two with Michael · Michael's acoustic guitar used on EVERY Stryper and Michael Sweet recording since 1995 · Personalized, one-of-kind album award with handwritten lyrics and signed CD · Life-time VIP Guest Pass for two The Platinum Edition will include: · 5% of Michael Sweet's Writer's Share of the song's royalties · Album award signed by Michael · One-time VIP Guest Pass for two "SongVest has allowed me to share my music with our fans in the most intimate way possible, so I'm very excited about someone owning a portion of "Alive" as their own," said lead singer Michael Sweet." The auction will end at 3PM EST on Saturday, March 13. Fans can register now at: www.songvest.com and go behind the scenes with Michael to learn how and why the song was written. Since 2007, SongVest has offered music fans, collectors, and investors the unique opportunity to share the royalties with the writers of their favorite music. Past auctions have included the rights to songs recorded by Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Carrie Underwood, Ringo Starr, Ozzy Osbourne, and The Monkees.

 

 

Monday, February 22, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS SIGNS THE LEGENDARY BAND FOR NEW ALBUM WORLD-WIDE: Frontiers Records is very proud to announce the signing of legendary rock band Whitesnake. David Coverdale and band are gearing up for their latest endeavour. Whitesnake has already started composing new material that promises to deliver one of the finest chapters in Whitesnake'S career. "We are off to a very good start, with the new songs taking positive shape. It feels good, fresh & exciting," explains Coverdale. The next release already feels like a solid, natural progression to their last opus, the successful, critically acclaimed 'Good To Be Bad' album, awarded by the influential Classic Rock magazine as "Best Album of the Year" in 2008. "As always, we want to take it to the next level," states' Coverdale. "I feel that with the last album we achieved a strong Whitesnake 'cocktail' that comfortably embraced & mixed all the previous musical aspects & styles of the band's history, while taking our identity a little further... all on one album..." Born in 1977, Whitesnake have been among the most influential representatives of the their genre, having produced numerous rock music classics such as 'Here I Go Again', 'Is This Love', 'Still Of The Night', 'Fool For Your Loving', 'Ain't No Love In The Heart Of The City' or 'Walking In The Shadows Of The Blues'. Coverdale said the production team for the new album will most likely be the infamous Brutal Brothers, or Los Bros Brutalos, who handled the recording of "Good To Be Bad". "The new songs are in the very familiar and recognizable Whitesnake territory of soulful, bluesy, melodic power rock, with a couple of ballads thrown in for good measure... It can't be a Whitesnake album without ballads, mate!" Whitesnake have conquered the love and respect of the audiences all over the world with their driving shows and music. The new album promises to follow in the steps of a great heritage of solid and timeless songs. For more information, please visit www.whitesnake.com and www.frontiers.it.   FIREFEST 2010 – PRESS RELEASE: Firefest UK Press Release / "For our 2010 show we've decided to go for two full days, with a slightly later start time and just seven quality bands per day. We think we've put together a bill that should please many devotees of melodic hard rock and have arranged several special sets to celebrate well-loved albums and anniversaries. Several acts will be making their first appearances on UK soil whilst others have been much missed and will be returning after many years away. Here are the details…" Venue and dates - Firefest will take place on Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st October 2010 at our regular venue of Rock City in Nottingham. Line-up Saturday October 30 (Top to bottom) Lynch Mob It's been twenty years since ex-Dokken guitar virtuoso George Lynch last graced a UK stage. During that time he's explored new directions and in 2009 came full circle when he re-united with original Lynch Mob singer Oni Logan to deliver the excellent 'Smoke & Mirrors' album. The band have had great reviews since they hit the road last year so expect an explosive set taken mostly from their latest opus and their classic 'Wicked Sensation' debut. Dare The UK melodic rockers led by Darren Wharton last graced a Firefest back in 2005 at our inaugural show and have yet to play a UK date since original guitarist Vinny Burns rejoined two years ago. Twenty-one years have passed since their classic 'Out Of The Silence' debut was released so it's a great honour for us to have the band base their set around that popular record. Bonfire The enduring German hard rockers have been around in one guise or another since the late 70's but really started to make waves on both sides of the Atlantic with their classic 1987 album 'Fireworks'. With a very special set to celebrate the album that gave Firefest's sister magazine it's name, Claus Lessmann, Hans Ziller and co. will play the 'Fireworks' record in its entirety. Saraya Continuing Firefest's proud record of providing the unexpected, the US rock band led by Sandi Saraya and Tony 'Bruno' Rey are back after an eighteen year hiatus. Keyboard player Gregg Munier tragically passed away in 2006 but all other original members will be present to play a set based around their melodic debut album, with a smattering of their harder edged 'When The Blackbird Sings' album for good measure. Bangalore Choir Another cult US hard rock band will grace our stage in the shape of Bangalore Choir. Their 1992 debut album 'On Target' is well-respected for its sublime mixture of melody and crunch, and led by ex-Accept singer David Reece and guitarist Curtis Mitchell the band will play the whole record. It'll be their first ever show in the UK and we're sure they'll be made very welcome. Beggars & Thieves Two years ago singer Louie Merlino and guitarist Ron Mancuso played a short acoustic set at the Friday night meet & greet for Firefest V, so we're delighted to welcome them back with a full band. They're currently in the studio recording a new album so will have some new songs to play alongside the highlights from their first three records. Grand Illusion After a break of four and a half years Sweden's Grand Illusion have decided to give it another go. The original trio of Anders Rydholm, Peter Sundell and Per Svensson are currently recording a new album with some pretty high profile guests and with three strong releases already under their belts they have a wealth of upbeat melodic rock songs to get the party off to a good start. Sunday October 31 (Top to bottom) Nelson Twins Matthew and Gunnar Nelson caused a stir in 1990 when their first single '(Can't Live Without Your) Love And Affection' reached the top of the US charts. They would go on to create several high quality albums throughout the 90's and are applying the finishing touches to a new release called 'Lightning Strikes Twice' as we speak. Despite their rich heritage this will be their first ever UK show and a great coup for the Firefest team. Jimi Jamison There are few voices in melodic rock as distinctive as former Survivor, Cobra and Target frontman Jimi Jamison's. The consummate performer will at last grace a UK stage with a top class band that includes the amazing Tommy Denander on guitar, so expect a great mix of songs from his solo career (including a chunk of his recent well-received 'Crossroads Moment' album) and a few Survivor classics. Pretty Maids No-one was more disappointed than we were when Denmark's finest had their travel plans cancelled by the airline in the run-up to Firefest V. Thankfully their schedule for 2010 has presented the opportunity to book them again for a long overdue return to the UK. Ronnie Atkins, Ken Hammer and Kenn Jackson, along with a new drummer and keyboard player, have a quality back catalogue and we guarantee they'll rock your socks off! Strangeways Getting cult UK melodic rock band Strangeways to play at Firefest has been a labour of love for festival organiser Kieran Dargan, so it's with great pleasure that we can announce that he's finally gone and done it. The bands 'Native Sons' and 'Walk In The Fire' discs are rightfully regarded as genre classics, and with a new album already started, the favoured line-up of Ian & Dave Stewart, Jim Drummond, David (Munch) Moore and the great Terry Brock are back and ready to rock. Stage Dolls Norwegian trio Stage Dolls have proven over the years to be one of the most consistent bands around, frequently re-inventing themselves with new sounds and ideas. They've delivered great albums in each of the three decades since they formed and will, no doubt, be one of the hits of the festival. With a new album called 'Always' to promote, this is yet another overdue return to these shores. Newman It's criminal that after over a decade of consistently good melodic rock records the UK's own Newman is still one of our best kept secrets. Their eighth album 'The Art Of Balance' continues their rich vein of form with yet another collection of catchy, hard hitting songs and stellar production, and with a great band behind him Steve Newman certainly deserves a place on the main stage. Grand Design Swedish five-piece Grand Design came from out of nowhere last year to deliver one of the surprise releases of the year, a traditional hard rock album with multi-layered harmonies and intricate Def Leppard-influenced arrangements. All they need now is live shows to take them to the next level so we're thrilled that they've chosen Firefest to start their UK assault. Tickets & Prices The ticket prices are as follows: Saturday - £48.50  Sunday - £48.50  Postage at £1 extra per order  Day of Show £55   Early Bird Special - We will sell the first 250 weekend tickets (Saturday and Sunday) for £85, a saving £12. If you're bringing a partner get in early and save £24! These tickets cannot be reserved, they will be available strictly on a first come first served basis. As soon as these Early Bird tickets are sold ticket prices will revert to the standard price of £48.50 per day or £97 for both days. Payment - via PayPal to: fireworks.mag@ntlworld.com or by Cheque/Postal Order/Bank Draft payable to Bruce Mee and sent to: C/O Fireworks Office, 10 Dunnock Close, Offerton, Stockport, SK2 5XD England. Tickets will be mailed out within 21 days of order. A full list of other tickets agents will be made available shortly. Other details We'd like to welcome Blackstar Amplification and AOR Heaven as new sponsors, with thanks for their contributions. Firefest 2010 is an age 14 and over show. A press and guest list accreditation system will be implemented soon at our website – www.thefirefest.com – could anyone wishing to apply please refrain from contacting any member of the Firefest team about accreditation at this time. Instructions will be given in a future update. Check www.thefirefest.com regularly for updates, as well as the official MySpace, Facebook and twitter pages and www.rocktopia.co.uk. The website will also contain hotel details and directions for those travelling into Nottingham. All that's left to say is thank you for your continued support and we hope the line-up and ticket prices are to your liking. See you all in October – the Firefest team. Click on poster for full size jpeg.

 

 

Friday, February 19, 2010

EXTREME TRAILER AND NEW SHOWCASES ONLINE: Extreme - Take Us Alive DVD Trailer. The CD & DVD will be released via Frontiers Records in the next couple of months.   The CD Showcase has been updated - today featuring Frontiers Records' March 19 releases - Auras, Crazy Lixx and the absolutely monstrous new Treat album! Check them out now. DEF LEPPARD CLASSICS GET REMASTERED: A couple of very cool Def Leppard releases for fans coming up May 19 in Japan. On Through The Night and High And Dry are both getting 2010 remaster treatment! And both are set to include a bonus disc, but details of that are yet to be released. On Through The Night [Cardboard Sleeve (mini LP)][SHM-CD] Deluxe Edition [Limited Release] - Cardboard sleeve reissue from Def Leppard featuring the high-fidelity SHM-CD format (fully compatible with standard CD players) and the 2010 remastering. Includes a serial numbered label card, original liner notes, and lyrics. Also includes a bonus CD. Part of a two-album Def Leppard SHM-CD cardboard sleeve reissue series featuring the albums "On Through The Night" and "High 'N' Dry." Pre-Order OTTN here. High 'N' Dry [Cardboard Sleeve (mini LP)][SHM-CD] Deluxe Edition [Limited Release] - Cardboard sleeve reissue from Def Leppard featuring the high-fidelity SHM-CD format (fully compatible with standard CD players) and the 2010 remastering. Includes a serial numbered label card, original liner notes, and lyrics. Also includes a bonus CD. Part of a two-album Def Leppard SHM-CD cardboard sleeve reissue series featuring the albums "On Through The Night" and "High 'N' Dry." Pre-Order H&D here. DRUMMER MIKE PORTNOY ISSUES STATEMENT ABOUT AVENGED SEVENFOLD: Yesterday, Avenged Sevenfold--whose drummer James 'the Rev' Sullivan tragically passed away in December 2009--announced on their website that they are recording their new album with Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy. Avenged Sevenfold said in part: "We asked Jimmy's all time favorite drummer Mike Portnoy to record on behalf of him. Mike said it would be an honor and without question that's what Jim would have wanted. It's comforting to us that someone like Mike, who is undoubtedly revered as one of the best drummers in the world, held such respect and adoration for the Rev's abilities." Mike Portnoy issued this statement: "Even under normal circumstances, I would've been happy to help the guys out in any way I could as I think Avenged Sevenfold are a great band...but under these incredibly sad and tragic circumstances, I must say I am truly honored to have been asked to play with them and I didn't even have to think twice about saying 'yes.' These guys are a true family and it is an incredibly emotional experience to be here with them for the first time without their lost brother. But they have welcomed me into the family with open arms and there's a real excitement to make the record they had set out to make. I am treating my participation on this album with the utmost respect for Jimmy's memory and am remaining as true as possible to the drum parts that he wrote for the songs and the record he wanted to make. I want their fans to realize that I'm not trying to step into or fill The Rev's shoes...I'm just merely lacing 'em up for him!" EUROPE IN THE UK: Europe, Sweden's biggest hard rock band starts their nationwide 9-date UK tour on Thursday February 18th at the Leeds O2 Academy. Following the band's critically acclaimed 2009 studio album 'Last Look at Eden', a triumphant headline appearance at Bloodstock Festival and a sold-out Classic Rock Magazine Awards gig in London last November, "Europe" are about to rock UK audiences around the country. Their new single, 'New Love In Town', released earlier this month as a digital download, is currently playlisted on BBC Radio 2. Europe's February 2010 UK Tour Dates as follows - Leeds O2 Academy (Feb 18), Birmingham O2 Academy (Feb 19), London O2 Shepherds Bush Empire (Feb 20), Oxford O2 Academy (Feb 22), Bournemouth O2 Academy (Feb 23), Bristol O2 Academy (Feb 24), Manchester Academy 2 (Feb 26), Newcastle O2 Academy (Feb 27), Glasgow O2 ABC (Feb 28). Tickets priced £17, with the exception of London (£18). Special guest is Diamond Head. Ticket Hotline: (excluding Manchester) is 0844 477 2000, www.ticketweb.co.uk. Manchester Academy 2 tickets: 0161 832 1111, www.ticketline.co.uk, www.manchestercademy.net. Official EUROPE UK Tour press release: www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/earmusic/europetour.htm. KISS ON EXTREME MAKEOVER: The Wagstaff Family had a visit from the American hit show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" at their home in Gainesville, Florida. Their episode airs this Sunday in the USA on ABC and will feature the family being taken to Tulsa, Oklahoma to meet Kiss and traveled with KISS to a school to donate new music instruments. Preview the show here: abc.go.com/shows/extreme-makeover-home-edition. WILDSIDE RETURNS TO THE SUNSET STRIP: It's been nearly 20 years since Wildside played Sunset Boulevard but that will change Saturday February 27th 2010. The band will share the stage at the world famous "Roxy Theatre" with fellow strip veterans Tuff along with special guest Swedish imports Vains Of Jenna. It was the summer of 1990 when Young Gunns last played that same "Roxy Theatre" as special guests to Tuff. A year later Young Gunns signed a major label deal with Capitol Records and changed their name to Wildside. The band went on to release Wildside "Under the Influence" (Capitol - 1992) and their follow up Wildside "ST" on (TNT Records 1995) before disbanding shortly after. Wildside has lie relatively dormant over the last 15+ years with the exception of their third release Wildside "The Wasted Years" (RLS Records) in 2004. The band re-formed at that time and played a handful of shows only to go back into hibernation with the exception of some digital releases. Wildside "The Essential" was made available in 2008 & Wildside "The Essential – Volume 2" in 2009. These can be found through outlets like Amazon & iTunes. The band will return with 4' of the original 5' piece still intact. Lead singer Drew Hanna, guitarist Brent Woods, bassist Marc Simon and drummer Jimmy D will be playing some of their classic tracks like "Hang On Lucy", "Hair of the Dog", "How Many Lies" & "Clock Strikes 12". Club Vodka presents this show and the place is sure to be at capacity with porn stars, rock stars and several D list celebrities for sure. Get your tickets now. For more information visit: www.clubvodka.com - www.wildsidelive.com - www.tuffcds.com - www.vainsofjenna.com. SHREDGUY RECORDS UPDATE: The "mad scientist of shred guitar" Adrian English has released a new 7 minute instrumental song "G-theory". This is a prelude to an upcoming release from Mr English set for May 2010. The single song is available at: itunes.apple.com/us/album/g-theory/id346025792. Also the first single from the new CD from Toby Knapp "The Campaign" is also available for download at itunes.apple.com/us/album/wicked-feat-tom-cline-single/id348712835. Knapp described the song as "something that may have appeared on Zep's Physical Graffiti featuring vocalist Tom Cline (of Noise Auction), who mixes Alice In Chains and Zep resulting in the catchiest chorus I've heard in my music!" Toby will be chatting live with Metal Messiah Radio (www.metalmessiahradio.com) on Monday, February 22nd at 9 PM PST/Midnight EST. METALITALITA.COM RADIO NOW ONLINE!: The Italian online metal magazine Metalitalia.com is glad to announce the birth of a new 100% metal webradio: Metalitalia.com Radio, now available 24/7 on www.metalitalia.com. Ranging from catchy hard rock melodies to the most brutal and aggressive death metal sounds, this new webradio embraces all the different sub-genres of metal and extreme music and offers you an exhaustive and balanced selection of old classics, recent stuff, new singles and anticipations. Listen to Metalitalia.com Radio directly from our homepage (www.metalitalia.com), by using either the online player or your favourite audio software (Windows Media Player, Real Player, Quicktime, WinAmp, iTunes). MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated and now features the following new updates: - Feature Live - Bon Jovi Live Nov 21, 2004 - Borgata, USA (19 Tracks) - Feature Album - The Almighty - Soul Destruction. - Classic Compilation - MTM Music Volume IV - Video Clips - Chickenfoot - Oh Yeah & Soap On A Rope, Days Before Tomorrow - The Sky Is Falling, Grays - Very Best Years, WET - One Love and Helloween - Dr Stein 2010. MR-X Membership Details.

 

 

Thursday, February 18, 2010

AEROSMITH OFF THE ROCKS?: It seems the As The World Turns: Aerosmith saga is entering a new chapter, with the announcement of a headlining appearance at Sweden Rock Festival and possibly more European dates to follow. The press release: "Aerosmith, one of the biggest and most influential bands in rock history, return to Solvesborg on June 10th for one of the most exciting shows of the summer. Aerosmith - Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton and Joey Kramer - return to Europe for the first time in three years in what promises to be a sensational show. The Sweden Rock festival is the first of several European Aerosmith dates, their first live dates this year, and it looks set to be one of the highlights of 2010. Steven Tyler said: "Swedish audiences are like no other. We're all very excited." Joe Perry added: "This is the first show of our European Tour. We can't wait to uncork our tour here in Sweden and I am sure the cork will hit the ceiling." For tickets and more information please visit: www.swedenrock.com. INTRODUCING HOUSTON: New Swedish AOR/Melodic Rock duo HOUSTON releases the debut-single Hold On. Available for digital download through "Klicktrack" www.klicktrack.com / www.myspace.com/houstontheband. Houston consists of Hampus "Hank" Erix and Freddie Allen, who was brought together by live-promoter Dave Laroxx (who also works as a club organizer, A&R, DJ etc in Stockholm) in a concerted and sincere effort to make a really good Swedish rock disc adjacent to pop music. So-called AOR, Adult-Oriented Rock, was the music style that was the starting point. Among representatives of this style include bands like Foreigner, Survivor, Journey - all with breakthroughs in the beginning of the 80s. Houston has it's roots in the early 80´s century United States where freshly baked yuppies drove aerobics workouts to Journey's "Don't Stop Believin' - and when Stallone was the world's freedom against doped Dolph Lundgren-Russians in the square stubble to Survivor's Eye of the Tiger.   ACCEPT READY THE BLOOD OF THE NATIONS: Reformed heavy metal legends Accept will release their long awaited comeback album this spring to be titled Blood of the Nations. Accept recorded the new album at Backstage Studio in Derbyshire, England with acclaimed British producer and Sabbat guitarist Andy Sneap (Megadeth, Exodus, Arch Enemy, Nevermore). Blood Of The Nations will mark the recording debut of the band's new lead singer, Mark Tornillo (ex-TT Quick) — and will include 14 songs. Some of the confirmed songg titles include Teutonic Terror, Pandemic, Shades Of Death, The Abyss and the title track. The album will be released in the spring of 2010 via an as-yet-undetermined record label. Longtime metal journalist and fan John Strednansky was the first outsider invited to listen to the new songs: "This new stuff is mind-blowing!" He continued, "I got to hear 15 new tracks and one was better than the next! "Holy smoke!!! Accept is reborn and better than ever! We all know that they have been writing songs with Mark but that they'd be able to recapture the metal spirit of the Eighties this perfectly... well, that blew me away! No way has it been 13 years since the last record.... The songs are heavy, melodic and have a killer groove, Wolf's [Hoffmann] guitar playing smokes all over the place. There are fast songs, and then there are those epic numbers! The music is stunning and will surprise everyone! Mark is singing from his heart and soul and sounds brilliant; he truly amazed me.... And you get the ingenious Andy Sneap producing this thing! Very cool indeed… I can't wait for this masterpiece to come out! BRILLIANT." The new line-up will make its live debut on May 8 at New York's Gramercy Theater. Accept 2010 is: Wolf Hoffmann: Guitar, Peter Baltes: Bass, Herman Frank: Guitar, Mark Tornillo: Vocals, Stefan Schwarzmann: Drums. A PLUG FOR MR.com SPONSORS: Just wanted to plug the arrival of a new advertiser in the form of Destiny Records (based in the UK, shipping worldwide). Destiny have been around a long time and are another trusted partner of the site. Check them out at: www.destinyrocks.com. And while on the subject - there are a few new advertisers around this year, so please help support them and in turn support this site by purchasing thru them and clicking thru the banners and links of all advertisers featured anywhere on MelodicRock.com. Thanks! THE QUIREBOYS NEW STUDIO ALBUM HALFPENNY DANCER: 2009 saw The Quireboys, everyone's favourite lovable rogues, play 103 shows in 16 countries in support of the 20th anniversary of their debut album "A Bit Of What You Fancy". You might expect them to be taking time off in 2010 - not a chance - instead, March sees The Quireboys deliver their long threatened, much anticipated acoustic album Halfpenny Dancer, already described by Classic Rock magazine as "an instant classic". Led by Spike Gray, one of rock's most recognisable frontmen, The Quireboys take a detour into Americana and Country. Featuring re-workings of Quireboys classics, "There She Goes Again", "Mona Lisa Smiled" - recently voted amongst the songs of the decade by Classic Rock magazine - overlooked fan favourites, "King Of New York", "Pretty Girls" and an eclectic choice of covers, Jim Reeves "He'll Have To Go", Leo Sayer's "Can't Stop Loving You" and a stripped down version of UFO's anthem "Love To Love", a nod of the hat by Spike to UFO frontman and early Quireboys manager, Phil Mogg. As on the album, live, the band are augmented, by dobro, mandolin, lap steel and fiddle. Choosing to eschew the more traditional rock venues, they play some very special intimate shows throughout March and April, including London's famous Jazz Café. If you thought The Quireboys, were all sex 'n' drugs 'n' rock 'n' roll, be prepared to think again, but to be safe, still leave your daughters at home! The current line-up includes original front man Spike Gray & guitarist Guy Griffin together with Paul Guerin (guitar), Damon Williams (bass), Keith Weir (keyboards) & Phil Martini (drums). Acoustic Tour Dates: Saturday 6th March - The Stone House, Knaresborough Thursday 25th March - The Musician, Leicester Friday 26th March - 12 Bar, Swindon Monday 19th April - The Stables, Wavendon nr Milton Keynes Friday 23rd April - Jazz Café, London Essential Weblinks: www.quireboys.com / www.myspace.com/thequireboys. WARRIOR DEBUT SABBATH COVER: Southern California metal band Warrior have uploaded their cover of the Black Sabbath classic 'Neon Knights' on their MySpace and Facebook music players. The track comes off the 'Neon Knights - A Tribute to Black Sabbath' album, out on Reality Entertainment. 'Neon Knights' marks the band's first recording with the current line-up which features founding members, Parramore McCarty and Joe Floyd, along with new lead guitarist AC Alexander, bassist Rob Farr, and long-time drummer Dave DuCey. A new Warrior album, the band's first with McCarty since 1998's 'Ancient Future', is in the works and being helmed by Floyd at his L.A. South Bay studio facility. Warrior online: www.myspace.com/warriorusa / www.facebook.com/pages/Warrior/104120980684. TUFF GEARING UP FOR WEST COAST SHOWS, THEIR FIRST EVER PERFORMANCE IN SCANDINAVIA: Tuff has entered its 25th year and still has fans everywhere. The staying power has been helped by a surge of younger fans who have learned about the band through the internet. That coupled with their global juggernaut smash "American Hair Band" hitting the airwaves. Oddly enough that was almost a decade ago (the track appears on "The History of Tuff" RLS Records released May 2001). The song at one point saw regular rotation on over 100 major radio outlets in North America. Almost unheard for an 80s band, not to mention without any record label support. To date, the spins have not let up. The track is more popular than ever and has become a classic to many old and new fans alike. Hair Nation (Xm-Sirius Satelite Radio) on-air personalities are quoted as saying: "American Hair Band by TUFF is by far our #1 most requested song." "We just want to play music and enjoy what (little) success we did have. It's been many years since we were in any way relevant to the real music industry but we still have fans and that's what matters most. We have seen it first hand in Brazil, Australia, Italy, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Mexico & The UK. All in the last few years and Sweden is next. We play the Stockholm Rockout Festival in April – and cannot wait!" says lead singer Stevie Rachelle. TUFF originally formed in Phoenix and played some of its earliest shows with a then local Hollywood band called Poison. Todd "Chase" Chaisson who co-founded TUFF remembers the early days: "Opening for Poison in 1985 was instrumental in our development. We became friends, met their manager, publicist and learned a lot. Next thing you know we moved to Hollywood. This was strongly encouraged by Bret Michaels himself who even offered to give us some furniture if I didn't kick his bass player's ass (Bobby Dall) for banging my girlfriend that night. He was screwing her while I was giving Bret an insulin shot. Crazy times and a true story. Now it's 2010 and I get to play music I love, with the guys who I consider family. The fans have been great and I hope it comes around, goes around, and goes around some more." The band returns to their Sunset Strip stomping grounds with old friends and a recently reunited Wildside on Saturday February 27 at the world famous "Roxy Theatre" in Hollywood. Tuff also has future plans to do an Anniversary re-recording celebrating 20 years since "What Comes Around Goes Around" which was originally released in 1991 (Atlantic Records). Stay tuned. In the meantime look for Tuff on the road in 2010. For more information: www.tuffcds.com - www.myspace.com/tuff - www.myspace.com/stevierachelle. SUBSIGNAL CONFIRMED TO SUPPORT SAGA!: After the triumphant success of their critically acclaimed 2009-debut album 'Beautiful & Monstrous' and a support tour for German Krautrockers Jane in Fall 2009, Subsignal will now be supporting Canadian legend SAGA at their upcoming tour. Besides that, 'Beautiful & Monstrous' will hit the stores in the UK (via Cargo) and in the USA (via Koch) on February 22, 2010. Subsignal will also play a couple of headliner shows during the leg of the SAGA-tour where you can expect a full, 70-minutes Subsignal-set list, enriched with some classics of Arno's and Markus' Sieges Even period (2005-2008). Check out the following dates: Subsignal On Tour 27.03.2010 Osnabrück, Rosenhof (with Saga) 29.03.2010 Hamburg, Logo (without Saga) 30.03.2010 Darmstadt, Centralstation (with Saga) 31.03.2010 Paderborn, Capitol (with Saga) 01.04.2010 Rüsselsheim, Das Rind (without Saga) 02.04.2010 CH-Uster/Zürich, Rock City (without Saga) 03.04.2010 Stuttgart, LKA Longhorn (with Saga) 07.04.2010 Bonn, Brückenforum (with Saga) 08.04.2010 Mannheim, 7er Club (without Saga) 09.04.2010 Menden, Hubertushalle (with Saga) 13.04.2010 München, Muffathalle (with Saga) Tickets: www.Eventim.de. HELIX FEATURED INTERVIEW IN ROCK NATION 14: The biggest heavy metal band in Canadian history! With a catalogue of music that spans a history of over 30 years. With 5 gold and 2 platinum albums under their belt and millions of records sold around the world, we see Helix release their 15th studio album this year called "Vagabond Bones". CD was release on Perris Records for Europe and USA. and Fontana/Universal in Canada. Rocknation interviewed lead vocalist Brian Vollmer for Issue 14. Rocknation: Welcome to Rocknation, your "Vagabond Bones" CD was one of the Rocknation Top 10 Hard Rock Picks OF 2009 along with Chickenfoot, Creed, Kiss & Dynazty. Please describe the writing process to your new "Vagabond Bones" CD? Brian: The two CDs previous to Vagabond Bones were The Power of Rock and Roll and A Heavy Mental Christmas. I had established a writing & business relationship with Gord Prior and Steve Georgakopoulos on those CDs, and felt things were going very well. On Power we had gotten licensing (with advances!) from Sanctuary for Europe, E.M.I. for Canada, and Perris Records for the U.S. and on the Christmas CD Gord had talked Walmart Canada into handling it, a bonus. So I was very excited about the CD we were going to write. One problem that seemed to be rearing it's ugly head at the time was the fact that my live band was not the band I used to play in the studio. They didn't write the songs, so why have them come hundreds of miles from out of town to play the parts in the studio? To read entire interview go to: www.rocknation.us/issue14. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: Added today - three new Showcases for Escape Music - N.O.W., Jayce Landberg and Hard. Check them out now.

 

 

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS ARTIST UPDATE: Frontiers Records is pleased to announced the signing of a new female music star from Norway. Her name is simply Issa and she is destined to stardom in the Melodic Rock musical world! With amazing looks and an equally amazing set of pipes, Issa has been working hard on her debut album under the coordination of producer Ronny Milianowicz (Saint Deamon, Primal Fear, Dyonisus etc.). Issa is a 26 years old girl from Oslo, Norway, since she was 17 she started working her way into the music business as a "demo" singer for different labels in studios all around Norway and at the age of 19 Issa won a competition with almost 150.000 votes singing the song Fade Away written by Stian Aarstad, who was earlier a member of Dimmu Borgir. The song got released on a record in cooperation with tv channel Fox Kids. Somehow people just love listening to this girl sing and she soon hooked up with Gaute Ormaasen from the Norwegian Idol Show touring with him. Issa has also performed on more Metal and Rock records such as Gaia Epicus and Illusion Suite. Issa has also played over 400 shows with Norwegian artist such as Postgirobygget, Dde, Jahn Teigen etc. Musicians participating on her debut album include Uli Kusch on drums (Helloween, Masterplan , Gamma Ray), Nobby Noberg on bass (Saint Deamon, Dionysus, Nation), Peter Huss on guitars (Sinergy, Shining, and guitarist for world known Bosson "One In A Million Hit") and Tim Larsson on keyboards (producer for Nick Lachey among others with Play Production). Frontiers hopes to unleash this outstanding new talent to the unsuspecting public after the summer 2010. Stay tuned for more news.   Winger announced the first US tour dates in support to the release of the band's recent successful come back album Karma. May, 2 2010 MelodicRockFest 2 - The Roadhouse, Elgin, Illinois June, 19 2010 M3 Rock Festival - Merriweather Post Pavilion, Columbia, Maryland (also appearing NELSON) June, 20 2010 B.B. King's Blues Club & Grill - New York, New York June, 25 2010 Grizzly Rose - Denver, Colorado July, 24 2010 Midwest Rockfest - Lake Afton, Wichita, Kansas August, 9 2010 Ocean City Music Pier - Ocean City, New Jersey More dates TBA It is now possible to watch on youtube a trailer videoclip that Rick Springfield put together for the "What's Victoria's Secret" single off "Venus in Overdrive". Surf on the link to enjoy it: www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLSXZHxg_I4. Pretty Maids are working hard to complete the recording sessions for their new studio album tentatively entitled "Pandemonium". The band has started to post video updates from the recording sessions. It is now possible to enjoy the first one watching this clip: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSbVninKO7A. Former The Storm singer Kevin Chalfant is busy writing the songs that will be included in the highly anticipated third Two Fires album. Some of the songs that will be included on the album include "All For One", "Is It Any Wonder", "Shattered Without You", "Answer in My Prayer", "Relentless", "Some Things are Better Left Unsaid", "Epic In The Night", "Still In Love" and "Burning Bright". Stylewise the album will go back to the debut album super AOR atmospheres and songwriting with some major harmonies and melodies. The new record promises to be a complete must for all The Storm and Journey lovers! Frontiers hopes to release the album by August 2010. Stan Bush is completing the writing sessions for his brand new album together with his usual songwriting partner Holger Fath. "It's turning out to be a great album!" says Stan. "I was concerned that "In This Life" would be a tough album to follow, but the new one is turning out even better!" Some of the songs that Stan has lined up for the inclusion in the final tracklisting include the album title track "Dream The Dream", "All That I Am", "Two Hearts" and "Don't Give Up On Love". Frontiers hopes to release the new CD by August 2010. MILAN POLAK ON THE MURDER OF MUSIC: Another update from Lion Music artist Milan Polak on music piracy and how it affects artists like him: "Some time ago I talked to a fan and she said, "I really love your music, I downloaded all your CD's". I was stunned by the way she said it like as if it was the most natural thing in the world. I told her, "Thank you for stealing my money" and she replied, "I'm not STEALING any money from you, I'm just not GIVING you any!" - and there we have the problem: People obviously have a wrong comprehension. They don't seem to take into consideration that making a CD costs money. Apart from the fact that I - as most of us - have to pay my rent, electricity, etc., recording a CD also costs money. As much as I love my work but someone has to pay for the studio (which can be up to 1.000 dollars/DAY!), the musicians, the producer, the engineer, the mixing, the mastering, the photographer, the artwork, etc. All these people obviously do not work for free. I mean you wouldn't go to the supermarket and just take whatever you want without paying or get a hair cut or go to a restaurant for dinner without paying. In all these cases it's understood that one has to pay but when it comes to music people have this distorted way of thinking that music is a free product for everyone. It is kind of saddening when I read a CD review where someone says, "Yeah, Milan's songs are great but the production is a bit weak." I mean, I too would like to have the sound of the new Nickelback album but productions like these cost up to 2 million dollars. Unfortunately, my record company doesn't give me a budget for a production like this and you know why? Because they don't sell enough of my CD's. Now one could say, "Well right but obviously Milan is not as famous as those bands"... True BUT when I compare the amount of fan mail I get with my sales it doesn't take the genius of Einstein to see that something's not matching... At this point I am writing my new CD and I am planning to do everything myself. Not because I am an egomaniac but because I just don't want to spend all the money I spent in the past when the sales don't even recoup my expenses. I hear so many people complain about the bad quality of music you get to hear on radio or TV today but let me tell you something: it might just as well be YOUR fault! Let me try to explain: a band like AC/DC or Van Halen or Kiss or Iron Maiden (and the list goes on forever) took several albums to develop and grow. Maybe they changed their sound or song writing a bit, maybe they took several years to finish a record (just think of Metallica's famous black album). All this is not possible for a new band anymore and that's why there's hardly any new great bands emerging nowadays. Record companies just do not have the budgets anymore. While established bands already have made enough money in the past to survive, an upcoming band is almost certainly doomed to perish. If you like any of those great old bands then make sure to catch them when they come to play near you, might as well be the last time you get a chance to see a great live band as music in this form is definitely a dying art thanks to the illegal file sharing problem. Thank you for having taken the time to read this. Hopefully it has helped to give you a better insight on what's going on behind the scenes of making a CD and why SELLING CD's is so important. All the best, Milan Polak." WebLinks: www.milanpolak.com / www.myspace.com/milanpolak.

 

 

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS SIGNS THE LEGENDARY ALAN PARSONS: Legendary studio wizard Alan Parsons returns with a live concert recording - Eye 2 Eye - Live In Madrid to be released March 19 in Europe and April 6 in the USA on Frontiers Records. Eye 2 Eye - Live In Madrid will come out in two separate configurations in CD and DVD format. Eye 2 Eye - Live In Madrid was filmed and recorded at the May 14, 2004 show in Playa Mayor - Madrid, Spain. The location is a gorgeous plaza surrounded by historic buildings and is a legacy to a very fine performance from an outstanding group of musicians. Alan Parsons' career started aged 19 when he worked on The Beatles last two albums, Let It Be and then Abbey Road, an album recorded in the legendary London studios of the same name. He soon become a well respected studio engineer and producer, working for Paul McCartney, John Miles, The Hollies, Al Stewart and Pink Floyd among others. He is particularly renowned for his work on the Pink Floyd masterpiece Dark Side of The Moon. This classic album was recorded in 1972, and Parsons' contribution to the album is legendary. With The Alan Parsons Project, Alan went on to release 10 acclaimed studio albums but never performed live, even after several US and UK Top 20 hits. The Project ended in 1990 when Eric Woolfson and Alan went separate ways. Eric devoted his career to the musical theatre, while Parsons felt the need to bring his music to the live concert stage and to continue to record conceptual symphonic rock music. As well as receiving gold and platinum awards from many nations, Alan Parsons has received 12 Grammy Award nominations for engineering and production. In 2007 he received a nomination for Best Surround Sound Album for A Valid Path. Eye 2 Eye – Live in Madrid features an outstanding performance and for many fans this is the first opportunity to see Alan Parsons' touring band. The musicians' performances are superb throughout, and this could well be the definitive band line-up that Alan has toured with. An added treat is Alan singing lead vocals on three songs as well as all band members sharing the lead vocal duties. CD track listing includes: I Robot; Can't Take It With You; Don't Answer Me; Breakdown / The Raven; Time; Psychobabble; I Wouldn't Want To Be Like You; Damned If I Do; More Lost Without You; Don't Let It Show; Prime Time; Sirius / Eye In The Sky; (The System Of) Dr. Tarr and Professor Fether; Games People Play. The DVD includes the entire concert and is available in NTSC region free format with stereo mix 2.0. Alan Parsons Forthcoming Tour Dates: March 14, 2010 Prague, Czech Republic - Congress Centre March 16, 2010 Warsaw, Poland - Sala Kongresowa March 18, 2010 Bratislava, Slovakia June 1, 2010 Paris, France - The Olympia For more information go to www.alanparsonsmusic.com, www.frontiers.it or www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xxxx SILENT CALL'S GREED OUT ON ESCAPE MUSIC IN MARCH: Escape Music will release the new Silent Call album Greed in Europe on March 26. Track Listing: 1. Every Day 5:37 2. I Am My Nation 6:05 3. Through The Endless Night 4:57 4. All That Might Be 5:14 5. Dream Tomorrow 6:45 6. Turn The Tide 4:15 7. Unbreakable 4:25 8. Falling From Grace 7:15 9. When The Angels Call Your Name 4:21 10. The Wages of Greed 5:37 11. Clavain's Tale 4:27. Silent Call is: Andi Kravljaca - Vocals / Daniel Ekholm - Guitars / Patrik Törnblom - Keyboards / Tobbe Moen - Bass / Mikael Kvist - Drums. Arising from the thriving music scene of Stockholm, Sweden, Silent Call trace their lineage all the way back to the year 1990, when founding members Daniel Ekholm and Patrik Ulfström (now Törnblom) met through a common friend. Realizing their shared passion and strong melodic influence, they began playing together in the local heavy metal band Satins ´n´ Lace (later renamed Jamback) and did so for many years. Together they formed what became the chief driving force and songwriting effort behind Silent Call's sound, which can be compared to many of the leading bands in today's' genre. In 2006, Silent Call was joined by progressive metal drummer powerhouse Mikael Kvist (Elsesphere, Fate), whose skill with the double bass drum and flair for the odd beat gave the band a new dimension. This latest addition marked the band's embarkation upon a great songwriting journey. The lineup was soon expanded with the acquisition of Mikael Kvist's old friend, metal bass talent Tobbe Moen (Red Fun, OZ, Creozoth). The singer's slot was finally filled in September of 2006 when Mikael remembered a vocalist he had worked with before - Ex Seventh Wonder and Elsesphere vocalist Andi Kravljaca. Two days after Micke's phone call, Andi showed up and blew everyone away with his smooth high register and vocal gymnastics. Silent Call had finally found their man. After the completion of the lineup, things happened very quickly for Silent Call. The band's debut 4-track demo "Divided," recorded during the winter of 2006/2007 in Södertälje, Sweden, was released in January of 2007, and showcased the band's new direction and lineup. "Divided" was well received by press and public alike, and planted Silent Call firmly on the canvas of Stockholm's live scene. The demo also attracted the attention of several European record houses, and after a tentative period of negotiation, Silent Call finally released "Creations from a chosen path" in 2008. "Creations……", was recorded in Stockholm and features 13 tracks of powerful melodic metal, with some spectacular guest appearances by the likes of Göran Edman (Yngwie Malmsteen, Brazen Abbot, Vindictiv) on vocals and Daniel Flores (Mind's Eye) on drums. The album was mixed and mastered by Martin Kronlund at JM Studios (Hammerfall), which is a fitting final touch to Silent Call's thick wall of classic sound. Silent Call had to pull off something special if they were to continue on the lines of surpassing their debut and "Greed" has done just that. This follow-up release is a fine example of what fantastic progressive metal should actually sound like! With songs like "Every Day", "All that might be" and "When the Angels Call your name" Silent Call seem to effortlessly produce top class music with all the hallmarks of being overnight sensations. Crisp guitar work, a plethora of keyboards and great lead vocals are all to be found here. Silent Call need be silent no more…. And here is a full length MP3 download for fans to preview the album with. Download: Silent Call - Dream Tomorrow. WebLink: www.Escape-Music.com.   xx AXEL RUDI PELL - THE CEST & ONE NIGHT LIVE: Axel Rudi Pell will release his new studio album on April 26th, 2010 * European-Tour in May 2010. In times of restless reorientation and a permanent hectic search for ever more spectacular innovations, Axel Rudi Pell has proved to be a constant, solid as a rock, a reliable preserver of his undisputed assets. Confident and courageous at the same time, he has embarked on a consistently traditional course with his band, relying more than ever on traditional values with his new album, The Crest. "The Crest sounds absolutely typical of me and my band. In a way, the new tracks mark a return to our roots. And I'm proud to say that there isn't one double bass number on The Crest", comments Pell. The guitarist and songwriter knows that this decision will not be considered archaic, but makes him one of the spearheads of a thoroughly contemporary development: for months, there have been reports from America, the UK and Scandinavia that an increasing number of bands are relying on drum arrangements which adapt to the melody of a song. His 13th studio album impresses with varied compositions at the interface of melodic metal and hard rock. The collaboration between Pell and his American vocalist, Johnny Gioeli, which was established some twelve years ago, has experienced yet another magic moment on The Crest. The American's raw, charismatic voice is a perfect complement to the deeply melodic numbers by the Axel Rudi Pell Band, who in turn prepare the ground perfectly for their frontman, allowing him to unfold his timbre to perfection. "Naturally, I came up with the main features of the melody and lyrics, but I'd be ill advised if I didn't listen to Johnny's suggestions", says Pell, "there's real teamwork in our band". The Crest also features an innovation: for the first time, Axel Rudi Pell has taken care of the production himself. Between November 2009 and January 2010, he, bassist Volker Krawczak, keyboardist Ferdy Doernberg and drummer Mike Terrana recorded the nine tracks (plus intro) at the W.A.T. Studios in Bochum. Pell worked on the vocals in great detail with frontman Gioeli via Skype, and Gioeli recorded his parts in the US. The album was mixed, as usual, by Charlie Bauerfeind at the Mi Sueno Studios in Tenerife and at the Twilight Hall Studios in Grefrath, Germany, the hallowed halls of their colleagues, Blind Guardian. In view of the album's compositional density, it wouldn't seem fair to highlight individual tracks. At the same time, it must be mentioned that Axel Rudi Pell has come up with a continuation of his classic, Oceans Of Time, in the eight-minute Dark Waves Of The Sea (including unmistakable quotes from the original), and that the album features an impressive instrumental in Noblesse Oblige (Opus # 5 Adagio Contabile). And of course, there's another great Pell ballad on the album, entitled Glory Night. So as usual, the band have done their homework brilliantly, and soon after the release of The Crest, the Axel Rudi Pell Band will introduce their latest release as part of their 2010 tour: the first leg will kick off in May, followed by a number of big festivals during the summer, before the second leg is set to start in autumn. Following the enthusiastic reactions to their shows with Heaven And Hell in summer 2009, Pell is open to suggestions regarding another co-headed tour with a renowned act. We had a lot of fun with Heaven And Hell, so I'd definitely consider a similar concept. Track Listing: Prelude Of Doom (Intro) * Too Late * Devil Zone * Prisoner Of Love * Dreaming Dead * Glory Night * Dark Waves Of The Sea (Oceans Of Time Pt. II: The Dark Side) * Burning Rain * Noblesse Oblige (Opus #5 Adagio Contabile) * The End Of Our Time. Tour Dates May 2010 - Leg 1 Special guests: Freedom Call 03.05. CH-Pratteln - Z7 04.05. D-Munich - Backstage 06.05. D-Bochum - Zeche 07.05. D-Hamburg - Markthalle 08.05. NL-Weert - De Bosuil 09.05. D-Ludwigsburg - Rockfabrik 11.05. D-Nuremberg - Hirsch 12.05. D-Berlin - Huxleys 14.05. D-Erfurt - Centrum Club 15.05. D-Bochum - Zeche Ticket-Hotline Metaltix (only Germany) 04627-183838 - www.metaltix.com 15.07. CZ-Vizovice - Masters Of Rock Festival 17.07. D-Bad Endbach - Oxygen Club WebLinks: www.axel-rudi-pell.de / www.continental-concerts.de / www.spv.de.   New Axel Rudi Pell Live DVD One Night Live out February 22nd. Trailer available: www.youtube.com/watch?v=VcM7JFZMbto. Track listing: 1. Tear Down The Walls 2. Strong As A Rock 3. Medley: The Masquerade Ball / Casbah / Tales Of The Crown 4. Drum Solo 5. Rock The Nation 6. The Temple Of The King 7. Mystica 8. Fool Fool / Eternal Prisoner. (DVD 9 = 16:9 = Language: english = Code Free = Running Time: approx. 85 min). www.axel-rudi-pell.de / www.spv.de.   KEYBOARDIST ERIK NORLANDER ANNOUNCES 'THE GALACTIC COLLECTIVE': Press Release / In the spirit of his much-acclaimed Rocket Scientists Looking Backward multimedia box set comes a new combination DVD/CD release from symphonic rock keyboard virtuoso Erik Norlander. The Galactic Collective is a fresh and innovative take on the best of Erik's vast instrumental catalog written for Rocket Scientists, Lana Lane, and his own solo albums over the years. The versatile keyboardist recorded with an astounding array of classic analog synthesizers, Hammond organ, and a Steinway grand piano at Clevelands Magnetic North Studio with engineer Chris Keffer (Syzygy) and executive producer Dena Henry. Musicians included bassist Mark Matthews, drummer Nick LePar, and a cadre of stellar guest guitarists including John Payne (Asia Featuring John Payne), Mitch Perry (Asia Featuring John Payne, Michael Schenker Group) and Mark McCrite (Rocket Scientists) along with leading Ohio artists Freddy DeMarco and Ron Redfield. "The Galactic Collective" CD/DVD audiophile package will be released by Chian Productions who are also presenting a CD/DVD Release Concert on Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 7:30 pm at The Shore Cultural Centre Theater, 291 E. 222 at Babbitt Rd. Euclid, Ohio, along with a special area appearance by Pink Droyd - a very popular Midwestern region Pink Floyd tribute band.... with lighting, effects, and multimedia visuals provided by The Solar Fire Lightshow. Admission: $17 advance/$20 day of the show. The Solar Fire Lightshow is a lighting outfit that has toured internationally with Hawkwind, Gong, Ozric Tentacles, Porcupine Tree, and many others. Expect some great visuals! For further information on this special event and the new Galactic Collective CD/DVD package, please contact www.chianproductions.com. KROKUS READY TO UNLEASH THEIR HOODOO: Press Release / The wait is almost over! Two more weeks until Krokus release their first cd with the original line-up in Europe. If we could, the band would love to invite all of their fans around the world to the Hoodoo cd release party in Switzerland. Unfortunately this is not possible. As with all events of this kind, there will be press, record company and other dignitaries present. However, without you, the fan, this would not be a real Hoodoo party. For fans living in Switzerland or surrounding countries that can make the trip, the band will give away 100 tickets to 50 of their loyal fans (2 tickets for each winner) for this event. So, 50 people that live in and around Switzerland that send their full name and exact mailing address to peter.waelti@krokusonline.com will win 2 tix per person to join Krokus at the Hoodoo Lounge. We will raffle off the tickets. The record company will send the tickets in time to the winners. You need a ticket to enter the event. More details in the German text of this newsletter. Listen to soundclips of the Krokus Hoodoo Album: www.exlibris.ch/musik/cd/krokus/hoodoo/?id=0886976494322. MELODIC BRIEFS: You can download the track Blue and Evil off Joe Bonamassa's new album Black Rock at the following address: jbonamassa.com/mailout/index22.html. Former Led Zeppelin vocalist Robert Plant has tentatively named his new solo record It's Rude to Say No, according to LedZeppelinNews.com. Four brand new songs from the new Gary Schutt CD Posted On MySpace - www.myspace.com/garyschuttmusic. Manticora and Persefone have been confirmed for the MetalFest festival taking place in Budapest, Hungary on May 31st - 23rd 2010. www.manticora.dk / www.persefone.com. Phlegethon, the new concept album of Kingcrow has finally mastered at "20Hz20Khz" in Naples by Davide Barbarulo. For a taste of things to come check out at their official MySpace www.myspace.com/kingcrowband "Evasion" and two Samples of "Fading Out PT.III" and Numb. Release date and label will be revealed soon. www.kingcrow.it. Here is the official link to the recent Planet Rock Steve Perry interview: planetrock.com/Article.asp?id=1694846&spid=11484. Slash talks about his new solo album: www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/exclusive-slash-talks-about-his-new-solo-album/. Mid 90s melodic metal band No Respect are reuniting for one night in their hometown of Dallas, at the Lakewood Theater on Sat. April 17th. No Respect's sound was a cross between Skid Row, Vain, and Spread Eagle...with an occasional dash of Motley Crue. The band will play an hour long set, and will consist of "classic lineup" members; vocalist Jason Monroe, bassist John Vaughan, guitarists Nick Holmes and John Inman, and sitting in on drums, Mel Bittick. This will mark the first time this lineup has been on a stage in 15 years. Visit the band at: www.myspace.com/norespectband. Swedish band Casablanca [featuring Ryan Roxie (ex Alice Cooper) and Josephine Forsman (Sahara Hotnights) among others] interview is up on Rocket Radio STHLM: www.rocket.fm/interviews/?ID=110 / www.myspace.com/casablanca. An interview with longtime Elton John drummer Nigel Olsson can be found at: www.heraldextra.com/entertainment/article_d4b3eca6-d29f-570c-b147-2c40918eec35.html. THIS WEEK ON HAIR METAL HAVEN: On this weeks Hair Metal Haven, Chris Nelson will be having an exclusive UK interview with Michael Sweet of Stryper. They will be discussing the current album Murder By Pride, why its taken so long to return to the UK, and what the bands plans are for 2010. Also on the Power Hour Chris will be bringing you interviews he did with Dragonland and Pathosray. So tune in 5.00-7.00pm UK time this Saturday 20th Feb on www..phoenixradio.co.uk. DOUBLE ECLIPSE GO DIGITAL: Press Release / Further on from the success of last year's 'Best Of...' giveaway, UK rockers Double Eclipse have released the 'Eloquent Face Down' album digitally. It will be available from all leading digital stores including Nokia, Amazon mp3 and iTunes. "Last year we were overwhelmed with the response to our 'Best Of...' as was our service provider who promptly closed our site down numerous times due to excessive hits! This time people can sample the 'Eloquent Face Down' album in the best quality and not close our site down in the process, ha, ha!" To hear the album tracks in full check out the bands TuneCore site: www.tunecore.com/music/doubleeclipse. ZINK MUSIC NEWS UPDATE: Press Release / It may seem that Zink Music has been lazy lately, but the fact is quite the contrary! We have stopped doing promotion, marketing and distribution for other record companies to be able to fully focus on the label, and we promise - 2010 will be a great year! April 16th sees the next release, it is a much asked for re-release of the first "LA Project" album from Peter Friestedt, which have been out of print for several years now. The artwork has been reworked, still using the original picture though, lyrics are added as well as liner notes from the likes of Bill Champlin, Bill Cantos and from Peter himself. We have also added five bonus tracks, two live cuts, two great alternative takes and one previously unreleased tune. On May 21 we will release what is one of the biggest Swedish Westcoast classics of all time, namely the debut album "Högt Spel" by Licence, from 1981 and now for the first time available on CD! Hailed as Sweden's answer to Airplay, a marvelous piece of music featuring Björn Ström (Fingerprints & West Of Sunset) on vocals and Jana Persson on guitar. All songs sung in Swedish, except for one of the two bonus tracks, the album was remastered using the original master-tapes! More details to follow soon on both of these two and also on some other releases… We also have some updates at our store with some cool titles: Spin Gallery "Embrace", Bronk "s/t", Johannes Zetterberg "Luna Nueva", Corin & Edman "Roc de Light" plus that we have managed to lay our hands on some copies of Tim Feehan "s/t", Sayit "s/t" and Toys Of Joy "One of These Days". More titles and a brand new webshop is on its way. For those in Stockholm we will be present at the big record fair in Solnahallen on February 27th, we will have all the CD's from the shop plus some more on sale. We have also bought a couple of hundred used Westcoast LP's that we also will have up for sale - hope to see you there. Peter Friestedt's debut album "The LA Project" was privately released back in 2002 and later by BMG Sweden. It was recorded in LA and Stockholm and features lead vocals by Bill Cantos, Michael Ruff, Joseph Williams and Bill Champlin. Among the players we find legendary names, such as Russell Ferrante, Jimmy Haslip, Abraham Laboriel, Brandon Fields, Jeff Richman and Michael Shapiro. The album has for some years now been a much sought after item within the Westcoast community, for instance, when Peter played in Stockholm last spring we managed to track down a box of 25 CD's, these sold out in less than ten minutes! So one can really say that it is about time to make it available again, this time with a great booklet and five bonus tracks. This debut from Swedish band Licence was released back in 1981, originally on the Signatur label; the band toured a lot and was hailed as Sweden's answer to Airplay. The album is pure excellence and still holds up strong, the vinyl has been a much sought after item among the collectors. Rightly so though the album is tight, well written, performed and produced. Remastered from the original tapes plus two bonus tracks, even though all songs are in Swedish, except from one, it is highly recommended to all fans of the classic sound of Westcoast. WebLink: www.zinkmusic.se.   xx ROB GRAD TO RELEASE FIRST SOLO CD NO APOLOGIES FEB. 14: Press Release / Garage Recordings is proud to announce the release of the first solo CD, "No Apologies" from Rob Grad. He has been in two successful bands. His first, Kik Tracee, was signed to RCA records without even a demo. Their touring included opening slots with Bon Jovi, Joe Walsh, and Body Count. His second band Superfine was featured on the Buffy the Vampire Slayer TV show and soundtrack. The soundtrack has sold in excess of 200,000 copies to date. After overcoming a serious illness, Rob Grad's "No Apologies" is as he says, "the most honest music I've ever made." A fan at a recent show referred to his unique sound as "if Tom Petty and Peter Gabriel sat in with U2." Guest performers on the album include Jimmy Keegan (drums, Carlos Santana) Martin Tillman (cellist, Elton John) and John Leftwich (bassist Lyle Lovett, The Eels) Not only a talented singer, songwriter, and musician, Rob is also a renowned visual artist. All the artwork on the "No Apologies" CD are Rob Grad originals. He will be bringing his artwork out with him on the road as he fuses the Rock and Art worlds together by playing live concerts at art galleries around the world. "No Apologies" will be available at RobGrad.com, iTunes, Amazon.com, and most all of the regular download sites. GREGG ROLIE ON WOODSTOCK: "IT WAS JUST ANOTHER GIG.": Press Release / Gregg Rolie is a true rock and roll legend. The singer/keyboardist is a founding member of both Santana and Journey. He's a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and he also performed at Woodstock with Santana. In an interview with Sterling Whitaker and Jeb Wright of Long Live Rock, Rolie said nobody realized at the time how special that concert was. "To all of us it was just another gig," Rolie recalls. "There were a lot of festivals during that time. It was not expected to be what it was, and it turned into that, so in hindsight everyone looks at it as what it is. But during the time most of the players looked at it as the same sort of thing....we played to thirty thousand [at other festivals], we played to forty thousand; five hundred thousand, you couldn't see past thirty thousand anyway, so it looked the same and felt the same." Rolie attributes Woodstock's legacy in part to the way it was captured on film. "The fact that it was filmed from the conception all the way to the end, to the garbage, you get a real picture of what happened there. That was brilliantly done. It was documented very, very well. It won an Oscar for a good reason. So what you see on it and get out of it is what most people got out of it. It's the grandfather of all festivals." Rolie's newest release is the Gregg Rolie Band's Rain Dance Live CD, which features an exciting mix of Santana classics with new material, powered by Rolie's signature voice and organ playing. He discussed that and his long career in the wide-ranging interview, available at this link: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/02/15/interview-with-gregg-rolie-on-long-live-rock/

 

 

Monday, February 15, 2010

CREIGHTON'S PILOT ERROR: Creighton Doane (affectionally known to fans as "Where's Darren?") releases Pilot Error. This is Doane's third solo release. The seven song EP reflects Doane's schizophrenic taste in music. Soundtrack meets pop, says hello to rock then becomes disoriented and exits abruptly, subsequently ruining the entire evening for everyone. This collection of songs is the playlist of a confused man-child suffering from delusions of grandeur, drowning in a sea of dated clichés while knitting a piano key scarf. Creighton spends his days in the studio working with a variety of artists as a producer, musician and writer. "I'm constantly working with other artists or writing for specific projects. Every so often I need to make some music for purely selfish reasons to tell my stories, my way. Why an EP? I wanted to get something out and waiting to have a full album seemed like it might take a long time. This music is where I am right now, and releasing fewer tracks means I can release new material more often. This is a good thing for me, and hopefully anyone else who likes what I do." The EP is available now at iTunes as well as many other online music stores. Visit www.creightondoane.com for updates, detailed store information, iphone ringtones and more.   NEWMAN REVEALS ARTWORK FOR NEW ALBUM AND PRE-ORDER DETAILS: Chrome Dome Music is proud to reveal the artwork for the latest album by Newman The Art Of Balance. The album will be released through the Chrome Dome label on March 15th and is now available for pre-order from www.newmansound.com. The 8th album from one of the UK's top melodic rock acts includes the following tracks: Hero To Zero, Edge Of The World, Endless, The Miracle, Stay With Me, Tumble Down, Wish You Well, Find My Heart, Your Surrender, Break It Again, Forever, Stronger. Check out www.newmansound.com for further details and to listen to 1 min soundbytes of all 12 songs.   KNACK LEAD SINGER DOUG FIEGER DIES OF CANCER: Doug Fieger, the lead singer of the rock band The Knack, has died after a battle with cancer, his brother, the prominent Southfield attorney Geoffrey Fieger, confirmed today. He was 57. Fieger sang lead vocals on the 1979 hit "My Sharona," which held the No. 1 spot for six weeks. He attended Eleanor Roosevelt Elementary School in Oak Park and Oak Park High School. Fieger was living in Woodland Hills, Calif. and was being treated at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. From The Detroit News: www.detnews.com/article/20100214/METRO/2140317/Knack-lead-singer-Doug-Fieger-dies-of-cancer#ixzz0fYks61SO. R.I.P. Doug. TIME TO BE KING FOR JORN AND MASTERPLAN: From Blabbermouth: "Masterplan, the melodic power metal band led by former Helloween guitarist Roland Grapow, has set Time To Be King as the title of its new album, due on April 16. A single will precede the full-length CD in March. Masterplan vocalist Jorn Lande told Germany's Rock Hard magazine last year about his renewed collaboration with Masterplan, "We never had problems with each other, but professionally, we decided for to go separate ways for a while. . . I am happy that we are . . . working together again — mainly because the combination of Masterplan's music and my singing [is] truly something special." Lande left Masterplan in May 2006, citing "musical differences" between the vocalist and the rest of the band. During the songwriting process for the group's third album, it became increasingly apparent that the other members of the band had different visions and plans for the group's musical direction. While Jorn allegedly wanted Masterplan to follow a more melodic path, the rest of the band apparently wanted to return to the metallic roots of their debut album. Vocalist Mike DiMeo (Riot, The Lizards) announced his departure from Masterplan in January 2009 after recording just one studio album with the group — 2007's "MK II". THUNDER MOUNTAIN ROCK FESTIVAL BAND ANNOUNCEMENT: Thunder Mountain RockFest is coming to the Rock Dakota Ranch in Sawyer, North Dakota. Thunder Mountain RockFest is a three day outdoor rock festival that will feature different eras of music on each day. The festival is slated for July 8 -10th, with a pre-party to be held on July 7th at 7pm. You can buy tickets on-line or at one of our outlets listed on the website rockdakota.com. Camping is also available. Patrons planning to camp this year will need both a camping pass and an admission ticket for each attendee. You can also join us on Facebook, MySpace and twitter to get the latest updates. The bands that have been announced to date are (more bands TBA): Thursday Asia Feat. John Payne: John Payne fronted Asia for 14 years. In 2006, John formed ASIA Featuring John Payne. The current lineup is John Payne- Vocalist/Bassist, Erik Norlander ­ Keyboards, Jay Scheellen ­ Drums, Mitch Perry ­ Guitar. They are currently perferforming songs from the entire history of Asia, including "Heat of the Moment." Foghat: A British rock band who had their peak success in the mid- to late-1970s. The band has achieved five gold records. Their song "Slow Ride" was featured in the 1993 American movie Dazed and Confused. The Sweet: British glam rock band Sweet became popular during the 1970s with hit songs such as "Ballroom Blitz," "Wig Wam Bam" and "Fox On the Run." Blood Sweat & Tears W/Chuck Negron Of 3 Dog Night: Throughout the years, BS&T sold over 35 million albums and won several Grammy Awards. Since late 2005, the band often does shows backing up former Three Dog Night singer Chuck Negron, where the group will play its own set and then another set that includes Chuck's Three Dog Night hits. The Guess Who: The world famous Canadian band that broke into the charts with songs such as Shakin' All Over, These Eyes and American Woman. Friday Nelson: Glam metal band founded by Matthew and Gunnar Nelson. They had a No. 1 hit in the United States with "(Can't Live Without Your) Love and Affection." Jani Lane Of Warrant: American recording artist who was the lead vocalist and songwriter for the glam metal band Warrant. "Cherry Pie," which is arguably Warrant's most well-known song was written by Lane in about fifteen minutes. Great White: Gained popularity during the 1980s and early 1990s. The band released several albums in the late 1980s and gained airplay on MTV with music videos for songs like "Once Bitten, Twice Shy." Kix: Their self-titled debut album featured live favorites like "Atomic Bombs and "The Kid." Their 1983 follow-up, Cool Kids, showcased a slightly more commercial side of the band. Spearheaded by the single "Body Talk," They also released Midnite Dynamite -- their "self-proclaimed favorite record ever." The album featured a great single, "Cold Shower," and some other notable cuts like "Sex" and "Bang Bang. Survivor: The band is best known for its Double Platinum-certified 1982 mega-hit "Eye of the Tiger," the theme song for the motion picture Rocky III. Singles like "Burning Heart," "The Search Is Over," "High on You and "I Can't Hold Back. Night Ranger: One of the most successful touring and recording bands of the 1980s. Their popularity was fueled by an impressive string of instantly recognizable hit singles including "Sister Christian," "(You Can Still) Rock In America," "When You Close Your Eyes," "Sentimental Street," "Don't Tell Me You Love Me" and "Restless Kind," to name but a few. Saturday The Veer Union: Released their debut album, Against the Grain, on April 21, 2009. Against the Grain has reached number 32 on Billboard's Top Heatseekers. Their first single, Seasons, has reached number 10 on Billboard's Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. "Seasons" was also the official theme song for WWE Backlash 2009. The band has toured with Hinder, Theory of a Deadman, Seether , Black Stone Cherry, Sick Puppies and Hurt. Egypt Central: Rising from the streets of Memphis, Tennessee. Their self-titled CD debuted at #1 for independent releases in Memphis ­ going on to sell nearly 7,000 copies within a few months. Taking You Down was selected to be on the soundtrack for the movie The Cave. In the summer of 2007, Egypt Central played several dates with Ozzfest. They also played several dates with the Family Values Tour, were they opened the main stage. Cavo: An American post-grunge/hard rock band from St. Louis, Missouri. Their single "Champagne" has reached #1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock charts. The band has toured with Crue Fest 2, Daughtry, LifeHouse, Puddle of Mudd, Sick Puppies just to name a few. Framing Hanley: A five-piece outfit from Nashville. They are best known for their songs "Hear Me Now" and "Lollipop." According to their Twitter, once they reach 10,000 followers, they will release the name of the next album. On January 25th 2010, they got 10,000 followers and it was announced that the next album will be titled "A Promise To Burn" and will be released on 5/4/2010. Default: A Canadian post-grunge/alternative rock band from Vancouver, British Columbia. Since forming in 1999 they have released four albums, and have sold more than a million records. They gained popularity in the United States for their hit singles "Wasting My Time" and "Deny." Hinder: Released Extreme Behavior in 2005. The album generated five singles, including several that crossed over onto the pop charts. Lips of an Angel was the biggest smash. Their follow-up album, Take It to the Limit, on November 4, 2008. The lead single, Use Me, quickly climbed up the mainstream rock charts. OVER THE RAINBOW / JLT TOUR DATES CONFIRMED AS OF FEBRUARY: Over The Rainbow tour dates: Thu Apr 15 '10 Prague, Czech Republic Retro Music Hall Fri Apr 16 '10 Zlin, Czech Republic Masters of Rock Cafe Sat Apr 17 '10 Bratislava, Slovakia PKO Mon Apr 19 '10 Budapest, Hungary A38 Thu Apr 22 '10 Kerkrade, Netherlands The Rock Fri Apr 23 '10 Zaandam, Netherlands De Kade Thu Jul 8 '10 Kvinesdal, Norway Norway Rock Festival Fri Jul 9 '10 Söderala, Sweden Rockweekend Festival Sat Jul 31 '10 Kotka, Finland Festival Tent Joe Lynn Turner Tour Dates For Russia And Belarus February 18 club JIMI Moscow Pravdy st.1 www.jimi-club.ru 19 club Forte Moscow, Bolshaja Bronnaja st.18 www.forteclub.com 20 club Jagger St.Petersburg Plos'shad konstitutcii 2 www.jaggerclub.ru 27 City: Minsk, Belarus Venue: R-Club March 1 City: Gomel, Belarus Venue: Cultural Center 2 City: Mozir, Belarus Venue: House of Culture 3 City: Brest, Belarus Venue: House of Culture 5 City: Grodno, Belarus Venue: Concert Hall BILLY IDOL TO SWEDEN ROCK FESTIVAL 2010: If you think the 80s were devoid of raw, sexy and dangerous rock 'n' roll, you obviously missed out on Sir William Broad, a.k.a. Billy Idol. Billy got a minor break with 70s-punks Generation X, but it was his second solo-LP "Rebel Yell" (1983) that made him a million-selling star. Throughout the 80s, he remained one of the most popular artists of the era, gaining numerous huge hits: : "White Wedding", "Rebel Yell", "Eyes Without a Face", "To Be a Lover", "Sweet Sixteen" and "Cradle of Love", to name but a few. After the colossal flop of industrial experiment-album "Cyberpunk" (1993) Billy retired to relative obscurity for many years, save a few appearances such as playing himself in the movie "Wedding Singer" (1998) - to great public acclaim. In 2008 he finally returned to the big stages full-time, touring the world with Def Leppard. And now one of the most notorious, and beloved bad boys of rock is back for real - to finally debut at SRF. Only show in Sweden! Sweden Rock Festival is arranged in Sölvesborg in the south of Sweden June 9-12. Tickets are available on the festival's website, www.swedenrock.com. Confirmed bands so far (out of a total of 60+): Guns N' Roses (Us) Gary Moore (Uk) Playing a hard rock set! Slayer (Us) Billy Idol (Uk) Bachman & Turner (Can) Only show in Scandinavia W.A.S.P. (Us) Rick Springfield (Aus/Us) Danzig (Us) Opeth (S) U.D.O. (D) Ratt (Us) Mastodon (Us) Y&T (Us) Fates Warning (Us) Suicidal Tendencies (Us) Nazareth (Uk) Magnum (Uk) Saga (Can) Sabaton (S) D-A-D (DK) Mother's Finest (Us) Stratovarius (Fin) Behemoth (Pl) Unisonic (D) Steel Panther (Us) Watain (S) Aldo Nova (Can) Alestorm (Uk) Anvil (Can) Raven (Uk) Bigelf (Us) Jorn (N) Tickets on sale now at: www.swedenrock.com Tel: 0456-317 95 Fax: 0456-317 94 E-mail: info@swedenrock.com.

 

 

Thursday, February 11, 2010

BROTHER FIRETRIBE LIVE ON CD AND DVD: A cure for winter blues has been discovered. It's called Brother Firetribe. Having released a couple of phenomenally received albums, "False Metal" and "Heart Full Of Fire", these Helsinki-based hard rockers embarked on their 1st European tour, supporting Swedish metallers Pain. With their live act polished to perfection around Europe, the band shot one of their shows in their hometown's prestigious Apollo Live Club. Finally, along with a light-hearted documentary filmed on their adventure across Europe, the home-stage show is now available for everyone to see. And what a show it was! While not all of Brother Firetribe's gigs in Europe may not have been in places as posh as Apollo, their unabashed joy of performing for a dedicated crowd is permanent and unwavering everywhere. This fivesome always plays it from the heart and "Live at Apollo" serves you with a 14 song set of passionate delivery, big choruses and over-the-top harmonies that comprise a royal flush of pure melodic rock bliss, which is eventually crowned with a guest performance in "Heart Full of Fire" by none other than Nightwish's own midnite queen, Anette Olzon. In the midst of winter's dreariness "Live at Apollo" is a much needed shot of good vibes. The Tribe's on-stage playfulness and always sunny disposition are nothing short of contagious. Therefore this live recording comes with a Surgeon General's guarantee: having seen how much fun a band can have onstage you too will be grinning like poison come to supper! The summer of 2010 begins already February 17th - let the sun shine in! Tracklist: 01. Who Will You Run To Now 02. Runaways 03. Wildest Dreams 04. Midnite Queen 05. Game They Call Love 06. One Single Breath 07. Play It From The Heart 08. Chasing The Angels 09. Going Out With A Bang 10. Break Out 11. I'm On Fire 12. Heart Full Of Fire 13. Valerie 14. I Am Rock. Line-up: Tomppa Nikulainen - keys; Emppu Vuorinen - guitar; Pekka Ansio Heino - voices; Jason Flinck - bass; Kalle Torniainen - drums.   xxxx ESCAPE TO UNLEASH A FORCE OF NATURE: N.O.W. - Force Of Nature will be released by Escape Music. February 19. NOW is: Alec Mendonça - Bass & Vocals; Philip Bardowell - Vocals; Carlos Ivan - Rhythm Guitars; Caio de Carvalho - Lead Guitars; Jean Barros - Keyboards & Programming; Erik Leal - Drums; Special guest: Imre Daun. Produced by: Alec Mendonça. Recorded in Rio de Janeiro & Vocals in Los Angeles USA. All songs composed, arranged & produced by Alec Mendonça. The album will be mixed by Martin Kronlund at JM Recording Studio's Gothenburg Sweden. Track List: 1- Can't Make It (How Can I)? 2-Hail Mary 3-Idol's Grace 4-Lonely Soul 5-Long Hard Way 6-Midnight Call 7-Once That Feeling Comes Again 8-Peace Of Mind 9-Listen To Your Heart 10-I'm Free (But Not Ready To Go) 11-No Time 4 Goodbyes 12-You. ''At age six, Alec Mendonça stumbled across the Boston debut album along with some old Beatles records which changed his life forever. When he turned 14 he started playing more professionally and got a Luthier home made bass. At age 18 his grandmother offered him the opportunity to have either a car or a decent bass..... although every single hormone in his body urged for a car he went with his heart and got his first fender Jazz Bass special, even recording an album in 1996 that had some air play in Brazil but then it all came to a halt due to sickness in the family. After a hiatus of 14 years taking care of family business, Alec Mendonça was finally back to the world he loved, the music world. There were so many tunes popping up into his mind that he decided to form a band and make a record out of it! N.O.W. was born then, and by joining forces with stellar Brazilian Keyboardist Jean Barros, all the basis of the songs were done in Studio 430. After 3 months Alec put down 12 songs! Alec had to travel to the studio so many times he lost count of that, sometimes spending the whole day away from home for months, but it was worth it. With the demo CD in hand, he only wanted the right vocals to do it and although Alec can sing, his voice is more of a background voice. Taking his chances, he decided to send the tapes to some people he knew through the internet and caught the attention of gifted vocalist Philip Bardowell (ex-Peter Criss, Ace Frehley from KISS, ex-Beach Boys, ex-Unruly Child) who loved the songs so much that he decided to sing the songs for Alec. Philip said and I quote : ''Alec, I'll pour my heart into your songs'' and by what you hear on this album, you can be sure he did! Guitarist Carlos Ivan brought a touch of uniqueness to the album as well, making his guitar lines sound vintage but current at the same time. All the songs reflect some stories that happened in my life or in the life of people I miss or lost. After only 10 days of putting up the new tunes on MySpace page, Alec got in touch with Escape Music, and the deal was secure for this release. The rest I hope becomes history.... as you can be sure that a lot of love and emotion have been put into the making of this album, it's a 32-year-dream coming finally true... so enjoy and play it out loud!   FIREFEST 7 ANNOUNCEMENT: Firefest 7 Announcement - www.arfm.co.uk - Saturday Feb 20th on the Steve Price show between 6pm and 9 pm UK(gmt) time. A full Two Day event at Rock City Nottingham. Dates, times and line-up will all be revelead on Steve's show as well as some very special offers for those attending and a few VERY EXCITING surprises in store for everyone who loves melodic hard rock!! MELODIC BRIEFS: Casanova, re-issue of debut album to be released in April/May. Packed with bonus tracks and pimped artwork. Keepin' the legacy ... ALIVE! www.jochenmayer.com. Hungarian/Swedish rockers HARD have released this exclusive preview of their upcoming debut album 'Time Is Waiting For No One' which will be released via Escape Music Feb 27, 2010. Check it out here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7U8grnwGFLw. Sterling Whittaker reports: "Obviously everyone knows that drummer Kyle Woodring (Deana Carter, Survivor, Dennis DeYoung) died last September as a result of suicide. This is an audio interview I did with his brother Kirk, who shares both the joys and the struggles of his brother's life honestly." Here is the link: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/01/29/kirk-woodring-remembers-his-brother-kyle-he-saw-the-world-through-a-different-lens/. The original lineup of rock group Tsar reunited yesterday and played a set at the Los Angeles Times that included two new tunes. More at: latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2010/01/tsar-live-los-angeles-times.html. New Mitch Lafon interview in 3 parts with Bruce Kulick has been uploaded to YouTube: Part I / Part II / Part III. New interview with Blanc Faces on RockEyez.com: www.rockeyez.com. Dokken has returned with a brand new single entitled Almost Over. The latest song from the 80s melodic rock legends is available at both Amazon.com and www.itunes.com. Track is lifted from the band's upcoming Greatest Hits CD to be released later this year through Deadline Records. The new collection will include a collection of all-new versions of tracks such as "Dream Warriors", "Breaking the Chains" and "Just Got Lucky", paired with several new songs and a cover of "Lies" by The Knickerbockers. Sample a 30 second sample of the remake of Breaking The Chains at: www.cleorecs.com. A small version of the CD cover art is below.   SLASH'S FAVOURITE RIFFS: Slash's 10 Favorite Guitar Riffs of All Time. Published February 10, 2010 By Michael Saba: www.pastemagazine.com/blogs/lists/2010/02/slashs-10-favorite-guitar-riffs.html. For the first time in Slash's career, the long-locked and top-hatted ex-Guns N' Roses/current-Velvet Revolver guitarist will be releasing a solo album (which features a reunion of four out of the five original GNR members--we'll let you guess who isn't showing). He also could help you cut an EP, if you win the "Guitar Center Presents: Your Next Record With Slash" competition he's hosting (www.yournextrecord.com). Since riffs are his specialty, and he's certainly playing a lot of them these days, we figured we'd give the guy a call and pick his brain for his 10 favorite guitar riffs of all time: 1. "Black Dog" - Led Zeppelin "This one seems obvious, I guess. This song is just fuckin' monstrous. Real, real heavy." 2. "Over Under Sideways Down" - The Yardbirds "You can't not love the blues on this one, how it kinda bops back and forth with the beat. But its also a little bit menacing too. I like that." 3. "Purple Haze" - Jimi Hendrix "You take it for granted because you've heard it so many times, but this is just such a well-structured, almost perfect riff. It's very unique, just in terms of structure and technique. Very original for a rock 'n' roll riff." 4. "More of that Jazz" - Queen "Brian May wrote amazing fuckin' riffs all throughout Queen's career. When I first started playing guitar, Jazz had just come out, and this song blew me away. It's almost completely overlooked too." 5. "Life in the Fast Lane" - The Eagles "Killer riff, absolutely killer. God, I must have first heard this song when I was in elementary school. Shit, was it really that long ago?" 6. "Disposable Heroes" - Metallica "This one's off of Master of Puppets, which is the ultimate Metallica album of all time. I love the rhythm and timing on this one, and it's got a real sinister drive to it, too. Like you just know something bad's about to happen." 7. "Superstition" - Jeff Beck "The sound this group gets out of the wah wah bar and the distortion pedal, it's a little bit funky but it still rocks real fuckin' hard. One of the best rock guitar sounds of all time." 8. "Show Your Love" - Van Halen "Some bands come out with the perfect first album, and that first record is so indicative of the band's unique sound. Van Halen's one of those bands that had it down pat on their first record. It's raw, and beautiful, and it's got a real energy, like a fuckin' in-your-face guitar tour-de-force." 9. "Back in the Saddle" - Aerosmith "I think this was one of the first guitar riffs I ever learned. I was screwing around when I heard this riff, I think I was over at some girl's house. And then this came on the radio, and I realized that I had more important things to deal with. This was one of the sexiest, sleaziest guitar riffs to come along since 'Whole Lotta Love.'" 10. "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" - The Beatles "It's trippy, it's bluesy. It's light, and then it gets real heavy. And it's all because they had two separate recordings that weren't going well, so they mashed 'em together. Classic."

 

 

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

VQPR TO HANDLE ENTIRE CATALOG FOR FRONTIERS RECORDS USA: Frontiers Records and VQPR are pleased to announce their new union in business. The recent collaboration to join forces came about the beginning of 2010 starting with new releases Brian Howe and the band Giant for their first project together. Hear more about these bands in the following weeks to come~ Frontiers Records is preparing new releases for the USA such as Extreme Take Us Alive CD & DVD recorded in Boston last year, Alan Parsons Live in Madrid CD & DVD and Asia Omega. In the recent past, the label has released new albums from Mr Big, Winger; Lynch Mob, House Of Lords and Primal Fear. Frontiers Records has a passion for melodic rock and the heroes responsible for timeless rock music that defined a generation. Frontiers Records have released many critically acclaimed albums, while several internationally renowned acts joined their high-profile roster: Winger, Styx, Toto, Joe Lynn Turner, Journey, Thunder, Survivor, Glenn Hughes, House Of Lords, just to name a few. VQPR holds a myriad of artists in many genre's from 80's heritage bands to punk, rock, blues and metal, as well has specializing in Guitar Gods. The combination of the two companies is a blend for success. Look for all the Frontiers Records 2010 releases to be released to the media by VQPR – coming to the USA soon! For more information, go to: www.myspace.com/frontiersrecordsusa or www.vqpr.com. LION MUSIC ARTIST UPDATE: New in formation from Lion Music - new titles released March 19. Mattsson - Tango - Mattsson is a name that has become synonymous with melodic progressive metal fused with symphonic, neo-classical and ethnic touches. This direction is continued and taken to a higher level for "Tango", the fifth album to be released under the Mattsson banner. Led by guitarist/composer Lars Eric Mattsson, "Tango" sees the collaboration between Mattsson and vocalist Adrienn Antal who first paired up on 2008's "Dreamchild" release build upon its predecessors impressive foundations for this overall heavier release. Yet "Tango" is arguably more accessible for the first time listener with tracks such as "Believe", "I'll Find Another Way" and the title track epitomising this commercial aspect. To add another voice to the album Mattsson has called upon Status Minor vocalist Markku Kuikka who darker style contrasts nicely with Antal's. "Tango" is 11 tracks clocking in at close to 73 minutes of some of the heaviest riffs and most complex musical passages to date from Lars, yet within the musical virtuosity there is a common theme of melody with the albums lyrical inspiration coming from everyday life and the state of the world. The song "The Grand Escape" is e a mini rock-opera of sorts as it holds a complete story with sections that could be split into separate songs. Lars rates this track as "The best piece of music I have recorded, and it's certainly different from anything I have ever done before in terms of structure". Mattsson also finds time for a little humour in the likes of the title track which takes a metal take on the "Tango" theme with the final product being an eminently commercial and catchy tune with an almost Abba like feel, whilst this humour again crops up on the smoky blues of "Slave To The Road". The initial recording for the album began in June 2009, although "Slave To The Road" originates from 2003 originally intended to be on the Mattsson album "Power Games". Recording of the album continued into January 2010 taking place in 3 different studios in Finland and Hungary before Mattsson set about the final mix and mastering. Track Listing: 1. Never Stand Down. 2. Believe. 3. Tango. 4. The Grand Escape. 5. I'll Find Another Way. 6. Shadows. 7. The Scream of My Soul. 8. The Fire is Burning. 9. Chain Me. 10. Tour De Force. 11. Slave to the Road. Musicians: Adrienn Antal - Lead and backing vocals on "Never Stand Down", "Believe", "Tango", "The Grand Escape", "I'll Find Another Way", "The Scream of My Soul", "Chain Me".; Markku Kuikka - Lead and backing vocals on "Believe", "The Grand Escape", "Shadows", "Slave to the Road".; Lars Eric Mattsson - Guitars, bass, keyboards, sitar, lead and backing vocals on "The Fire is Burning" and "The Grand Escape".; Eddie Sledgehammer - Drums and percussion. The Astral Strings and Woodwinds. Produced and mixed by Lars Eric Mattsson 2009-2010. Official Websites: www.larsericmattsson.com / www.myspace.com/larsericmattsson.   Cyril Achard - Violencia - French guitarist Cyril Achard is back in an aggressive power trio format for "Violencia", an album which boasts just one guitar with no overdubs working with a grooving rhythm section. "Violencia" signals Achard's intention to produce driving rock once again some seven years away from the scene. During the time away Cyril has been working in a jazz format building up a strong following around the world with his jazz trio who released the acclaimed "Trace" CD/DVD dual pack on Lion Music in 2007. Reuniting with Cyril once again to form his backing band are the highly esteemed musicians - bassist Franck Hermanny and drummer Eric Lebailly. Best known for being members of France's biggest metal band - Adagio, the rhythm section also have previous recording history with Achard on the "...In Inconstancia Constans" release (2001 Lion Music). "Violencia" marks Achard's most metal and aggressive of all his electric guitar releases to date. The style of the album could be viewed as a cross between Steve Lukather-ish instrumentals whilst the driving power of album comes as an influence from Metallica, which, whilst not in the same musical ballpark, the metal legends raw power provided Achard with the inspiration to make more powerful tunes again, "St Hetfield" is such a nod to this. Generally "Violencia" can be considered a simple, straight rock instrumental CD. Achard comments, "In the past people only talked about the complexity of my compositions with no mention of my melodies and song writing and I guess I was thinking I hadn't finished the job of what songs are about. So "Violencia" is out to show that I can compose 4 minute tunes with definite intros, verses, choruses and solo sections woven into instrumental frameworks". "Violencia" proves itself to be an accessible instrumental offering with Achard's best playing to date in a rock setting. Track Listing: 1. Brutalize. 2. Saint Hetfield. 3. All Or Nothing. 4. It's A Gloomy Day. 5. Violencia. 6. Sweet And Furious. 7. Strong Hearted. 8. I Don't Believe. Musicians: Cyril Achard - Guitar. Eric Lebailly - Drums. Franck Hermany - Bass. Produced by Cyril Achard and Deven Prod. Official Website: www.cyrilachard.com.   BON JOVI - SHAKE UP THAT SET LIST!: Anthony Kuzminski, the special features writer for the antiMusic Network wrote an "Open Letter To Jon Bon Jovi" on Tuesday February 9 in the hopes of bringing a change in set lists for the band's upcoming tour launching next week. Kuzminski who worked in-depth with former RIP Magazine editor Lonn Friend on his memoirs, "Life on Planet Rock" (www.amazon.com/Life-Planet-Rock-Backstage-Debauched/dp/0767922085) and who has been featured on the Talking Metal podcast (www.striglsmusicnews.com/podcasts/talkingmetal/index.htm) has written extensively on Bon Jovi over the last decade and the 'Open Letter' brings some startling facts to light about the New Jersey's band shows over the last few decades. The combined 2,700 word piece can be read at the following two links below: the-screen-door.blogspot.com/2010/02/open-letter-to-jon-bon-jovi-regarding.html. What Bon Jovi Should Play On Their Upcoming Tour: the-screen-door.blogspot.com/2010/02/what-bon-jovi-should-play-on-their.html. Anthony Kuzminski is a Chicago based writer and Special Features Editor for the antiMusic Network and his daily writings can be read at The Screen Door and can be contacted at thescreendoor AT gmail DOT com. R.I.P.: Bassist Gregory Pianka of DIRTY LOOKS has been killed in a bar fight in the USA. R.I.P. Greg - www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100208/NEWS02/302089912. Engineer and Producer Geoff Workman also recently passed away. He was known for his work with Queen, Journey, Foreigner, Mötley Crüe, The Cars, Twisted Sister and Toto. R.I.P. Geoff.

 

 

Friday, February 05, 2010

RATT ANNOUNCE APRIL 20 AS RELEASE DATE FOR INFESTATION: Press Release / It's no secret that Ratt are back and raring to go. The band is proud to announce April 20, 2010 as the release date for their Loud & Proud/Roadrunner debut, Infestation, an 11-song opus that is their first studio record in 11 years. The first single, "Best of Me," is scheduled to impact rock radio on February 21. The song is available at all digital stores. There's been a flurry of activity in the Ratt camp in the past few years. Vocalist Stephen Pearcy has returned to the fold and the band has since signed to Loud & Proud/Roadrunner. The legendary Los Angeles rock squad, also featuring guitarist Warren DeMartini, drummer Bobby Blotzer, bassist Robbie Crane and new guitarist Carlos Cavazo, engineered Hollywood's much-heralded Sunset Strip sound in the 1980s. "We wanted this to be like something that we would have written right after [1984's] Out of the Cellar," Pearcy said. "We definitely went back to basics with the mindset of a band with a lot of excitement and some great songs to get out." Infestation was produced by Elvis Baskette (Chevelle, Alter Bridge.) in the helmer's Virginia studio, marking the first time the band has recorded outside of Los Angeles. The album is full of attitude and of reflection, cycling through a range of emotions. There are party anthems that Ratt are known for alongside more contemplative, thoughtful tunes. The track listing for the album is as follows: "Eat Me Up Alive", "Best of Me", "A Little Too Much", "Look Out Below", "Last Call", "Lost Weekend", "As Good as it Gets", "Garden of Eden", "Take a Big Bite", "Take Me Home", "Don't Let Go".   PREVIEW NEW AURAS RELEASE: Two more Auras tunes to preview for you from their upcoming album New Generation. Download - In My Arms and Reach Out.   ROCK CANDY'S LATEST TREATS: These releases are available immediately from the Rock Candy website (www.rockcandyrecords.com) for a discounted price of £10.99 each ending January 17th. The Reggie Knighton Band 'S/T' CANDY065 - It is often simplicity that makes the biggest splash; banal lyrics, play-in-a-day riffs and shouty vocals are two a penny but, at the outer regions of the rock 'n roll solar system some more interesting examples live and thrive. Step forward the Reggie Knighton Band, an ensemble fronted by - no prises for guessing - a certain Reggie Knighton and his quirky, some might say eccentric, views on life, love and long distance space travel. For Reggie all topics are game. If not singing about a 'Clone In Love', with obvious reference points to genetic modification, strange aerial phenomenon in 'UFO', the ever popular Walter Mitty fantasy touched on with 'Lear Jet' and the extraterrestrial conundrum examined in 'Rock 'N Roll Alien', he's off with the fairies singing about the bizarre imaginary bond between him and Elvis in the 'King And I'. It's all trippy stuff for sure, but if it wasn't for rock solid musical backing this album might not sound so appetizing. Produced by Roy Thomas Baker (Queen, the Cars, Journey) the sound is enormous incorporating John Bonham style drumming, razor-sharp guitar work and flamboyant backing vocals in the mould of classic Queen. That this album rocks hard is a revelation in itself. So, climb on board for an extraordinary journey into the world of melodic, if quirky, hard rock by a man whose creativity has few boundaries. Track Listing: 1. Breakin' Up Inside 2. Rock 'n' Roll Alien 3. The King And I 4. Clone In Love 5. Lear Jet 6. Highway Patrol 7. UFO 8. Ooh Girl 9. Magnum Sally 10. Behind A Rock 'N' Roll Band. Balance 'S/T' CANDY066 - American East Coasters, Balance were a mini super-group of sorts. Pride of place was taken by vocalist Peppy Castro a man whose CV boasted commercially successful stints with late sixties psych legends the Blues Magoos, pop rockers Barnaby Bye and an obscure but influential hard rock band called Wiggy Bits. Guitarist Bob Kulick had built a solid reputation as a super-session player contributing to diametrically opposed talent as Diana Ross and Kiss. Third man on board was yet another session wunderkind; that's keyboard wizard Doug Katsaros. Enlisting the help of NYC powerhouse managers Leber/Krebs and signing to the impressive Portrait label, a division of Columbia Records, Balance looked set to bulldoze their way into the hearts and minds of music fans coast to coast. Indeed, for a few exciting weeks the project looked set to explode when the track 'Breaking Away' caught fire at radio, reaching the dizzy heights of #22 on the US chart. Sadly, however, the momentum quickly dissolved leaving the band unable to capitalize on their good fortune. Compared, at the time, to similar sounding acts such as Journey, Foreigner and Toto this album, originally released in 1981, contained a stunning array of top notch AOR with vocals and arrangements to die for. A finer combination of melody and muscle you will not find. Track Listing: 1. (Looking For The) Magic 2. I'm Through Loving You 3. Breaking Away 4. No Getting Around My Love 5. Fly Through The Night 6. American Dream 7. Haunting 8. Falling In Love 9. Hot Summer Nights 10. It's So Strange. Trillion 'S/T' CANDY067 - The American music scene in the late seventies/early eighties was a veritable breeding ground for melodically infused hard rock. However, in many ways, it was a sound built principally on British roots including clearly identifiable stimulation from later period Beatles to the early seventies progressive rock movement dominated by Yes, Genesis and Camel to name but a few. It was this pre-occupation with all things British that gave rise to a brilliantly dynamic style that relied equally on adroit arrangements as it did on melody and accessibility. Alongside more familiar names such as Kansas, Boston and Styx, Trillion were one of the greatest - yet in many ways unheralded at the time - bands of the era. Combining stunningly melodic songs with adventurous arrangements and tricky instrumentation the band straddled a knife edge between the deliciously hook laden pomp of Toto and the daring anything-goes musicality of pomp-prog masters Kansas and Starcastle. It was a style that had no boundaries, incorporating raging guitar driven hard rock to delicate and complex progressive compositions. Originally released in 1978, helmed by British producer Gary Lyons (Foreigner, Lone Star, Gamma) and featuring future Toto vocalist Fergie Frederiksen, Trillion's debut album is an astounding and accomplished work that sounds is as impressive today as it was when first released. Track Listing: 1. Hold Out 2. Big Boy 3. Give Me Your Money Honey 4. Never Had It So Good 5. May As Well Go 6. Fancy Action 7. Hand It To The Wind 8. Bright Night Lights 9. Child Upon The Earth.   xxxx 'GHOSTS' A NEW BOOST FOR KIP WINGER'S CAREER: Kip Winger's new musical Ghost has been featured in the San Francisco Chronicle newspaper. Here's part of the feature: "When the grunge thing hit," Kip Winger explains, "it was like all the 1980s bands were gone. Overnight." It's a well-referenced piece of musical history. Nirvana's 1991 album "Nevermind" sold 10 million copies, and Winger the band became an oft-used punch line. That brutal ending was also the beginning for the artist, who is about to execute one of the all-time improbable musical resurrections. Winger, who spent much of the past 17 years studying classical music composition, on Tuesday will premiere his first symphonic piece with the San Francisco Ballet. He wrote the music for "Ghosts," featuring choreography by Christopher Wheeldon. "The universe does amazing things," Winger says. "It took me down on one side, and on the other side it gave me the opportunity to go back and do what I really wanted to do, which was move to Santa Fe, N.M., put up a studio and basically relearn how to write music." It's a surreal thought to anyone who remembers Winger for his pretty looks and appearance in glitzy music videos, including "Seventeen" and "Headed for a Heartbreak." But it makes perfect sense to Winger, who fell in love with ballet as a 16-year-old in New York. "A girlfriend of mine wanted to do it and none of her girlfriends would take (classes) with her. I was, like, 'I'll go,' " Winger remembers. "I took to it like a duck to water, it was just really cool. ... Then I got a taste for Baroque music and studied classical guitar, and quickly went on to composition. I didn't want to be a player. I was more into writing the music." But the opportunities in the mid-1980s were in rock 'n' roll. After a stint as a bass player for Alice Cooper, Winger formed the band Winger in 1987, with guitarists Reb Beach and Lafayette native Paul Taylor. They were quickly swept up in the MTV-fueled hard rock wave, where bands are remembered for their meticulously teased long hair as much as their playing ability. Arguably, Winger's band did nothing wrong. The self-titled album released in 1988 had strong musicianship, and the band took chances with each new album. Winger's harder-edged post-Nirvana album, "Pull," has developed cult status among heavy-metal fans. But after the genre imploded, Winger was not treated charitably. Mike Judge made fun of the band on "Beavis and Butt-head," and Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich used Kip Winger's poster as a dartboard in the band's "Nothing Else Matters" video. Winger took a beating, but ultimately calls the experience liberating. "I was always more of a music-theory nerd than a rock-star type," he says. "Being a rock star has great perks, but I'm really passionate about knowing music." After the band broke up in 1993, Winger moved to New Mexico and "started hitting the books." He worked one on one with University of New Mexico music Professor Richard Hermann, and later in Tennessee with Vanderbilt Professor Michael Kurek - replacing his verse-chorus-verse rock mentality with more complicated concepts, such as post-tonal chromaticism. A few years ago, Winger felt confident enough to write a symphonic movement and sent it through a mutual friend to Wheeldon, a young British choreographer known for taking risks. It sat on his desk ("I didn't really know who Kip Winger was," Wheeldon says) until they met in person in London. Wheeldon listened to the music, then asked Winger to write some more. "It had a great atmosphere, really interesting rhythmic changes," Wheeldon says. "The only problem was it was too short. Six minutes, maybe." Winger admits to letting out a high-pitched rock 'n' roll "Yeeeeeah" upon hearing the news. Then he went back to work, spending the next couple of months finishing "Ghosts," gathering the best musicians he could find and sending the recording to Wheeldon. 'I loved it' "There was a little note on the box also that said 'Dear Chris, This is for you. Love, Kip,' " Wheeldon remembers. "I thought maybe it would be a computerized MIDI recording, but he had pulled together an orchestra. It was finished. And I loved it, I absolutely loved it." Ghosts: Premieres Tues. on a mixed bill with "Opus 19/The Dreamer" and "Company B." Through Feb. 20. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave., S.F. www.sfballet.org. FullArticle: www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2010/02/04/DDPC1BQTKM.DTL. SIN CITY SINNERS RELEASE DEBUT CD EXILE ON FREMONT STREET: What began for Sin City Sinners as a weekly 'just for fun' jam at a local dive bar, evolved into four standing room only shows a week. As demand grew, so did the need for a CD of original Music and now The Sinners long awaited debut CD "Exile on Fremont Street" will be available on Feb 14. Some may remember Sin City Sinners lead guitarist Brent Muscat as a member of Faster Pussycat & L.A. Guns or Sinners front man Todd Kerns from Canadian gold record artist Age of Electric. Kerns has been called the best rock star that America hasn't heard of, yet. The band is rounded out by Rob Cournoyer formerly of Raging Slab on drums and Vegas band fixture Michael Ellis on bass. On Saturday Feb 13 the band will record a live DVD at Ovation (inside Green Valley Ranch) and the CD will be on sale at midnight, with a release party and signing to follow. The CD will be available at all of the bands shows and thesincitysinners.com and the first 500 come with a limited edition guitar pick and autographed 8x10 photo.   BON JOVI TO DIG DEEP WITH NEW SET LIST: From Billboard Online: "Bon Jovi is planning to dig deep into its catalog and maybe even play some albums in their entirety for the group's upcoming Circle World Tour, which kicks off Feb. 11 in Honolulu. With an itinerary of 135 shows in 30 countries until August of 2001, guitarist Richie Sambora told Billboard.com during a conference call with reporters that "to keep ourselves interested and happy we're going to be picking songs from different records and kind of intersect them into the set as time goes on...We try to give the crowd the songs they want to hear, obviously. That's very important 'cause the fans came to hear those songs. We love to play them, so it's not a big deal. But we're gonna go back and play stuff that we haven't played in 20 years...stuff off the first album, stuff off the second album that we haven't played in God knows how long. So it's gonna be a lot of fun." The guitarist added that Bon Jovi will particularly take advantage of multi-night stands at the new Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (five) and the O2 Arena in London (15) to stage a few special events. "We might do 'Slippery When Wet' in its entirety, or 'Lost Highway' in its entirety," he said. "I'm sure we'll do 'The Circle' in its entirety a few times on this tour, 'cause we're really proud of this record. We're going to be doing a lot of different stuff." Three Meadowlands shows are currently announced; two more will be put on sale in the near future, Sambora said, with Kid Rock slated to open both. Sambora revealed that the staging will again make extensive use of moving video screens, this time with a twist. "We have these robots that actually move the video screens around the stage," he said. There will also be a semi-circular ramp bordering the stage as well as VIP pits for premium ticket buyers to get up close and personal with the band. And while "The Circle" is still going strong with a new single, "Superman Tonight," Sambora said a greatest hits album is "ready to go" with three new songs, though he expects that it won't be released until the fourth quarter of 2001 or "whenever ('The Circle') wanes...I would think, in my heart of hearts that this record'll last 'til next Christmas and the greatest hits will come out for Christmas of next year." Sambora doesn't expect any of the compilation's new songs to be previewed during the tour, however. "We have so many other songs to choose from," he said, "but you never know. We're so loose when it comes to that stuff...Jon is always calling what we call audibles, just like a quarterback on a football field...and inject any song at any time. We sound check every day and we're always trying new songs to play at shows. Then we also play a lot of covers, too; Jon'll say, 'You got an idea?' 'Yeah -- how about Neil Young, 'Rockin' in the Free World?' ' and, bang, we do it. 'Helter Skelter,' bang, we do it. It'll be a lot of fun." WebLink: www.billboard.com. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated finally - the following new features have been added: - Treat - Leftovers 1992 (10 Tracks) - Feature Album - 21 Guns - Salute - Feature Album - Joey C Jones & The Glory Hounds - S/T New Video Clips: Chickenfoot - Sexy Little Thing, Kiss - Modern Day Delilah, Power Supply - Bad Habit, Reckless Love - Beautiful Bomb and One More Time, WET - Comes Down Like Rain, Rock Sugar - Don't Stop The Sandman and Steel Panther - Death To All But Metal. MR-X Membership Details. CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: CD Showcases have been updated with the following new albums ready to check out: Rick Springfield / Jeff Silverman, Giant, Brian Howe (Frontiers Records, February 26 release); Last Autumns Dream (Escape Music, out now); State Of Rock, Angels Of Babylon (Metal Heaven, out now) and Mastermind, Charly Sahona & Acacia Avenue (Lion Music, out now). Check them out!

 

 

Thursday, February 04, 2010

SLASH SOLO AND WITH GUITAR CENTER: Superstar guitarist Slash (Guns N' Roses, Velvet Revolver) will release his first real solo album Slash in April. The CD will feature 13 tracks and 13 vocalists - as follows: 01 - Ghost (Ian Astbury), 02 - Beautiful Dangerous (Fergie), 03 - Nothing To Say (M. Shadows), 04 - Crucify The Dead (Ozzy Osbourne), 05 - Promise (Chris Cornell), 06 - By The Sword (Andrew Stockdale), 07 - Doctor Alibi (Lemmy Kilmister), 08 - Saint Is A Sinner Too (Rocco De Luca), 09 - Watch This (Dave Grohl/Duff McKagan), 10 - I Hold On (Kid Rock), 11 - Gotten (Adam Levine), 12 - We're All Gonna Die (Iggy Pop), 13 - Starlight (Myles Kennedy).   In related news - Continuing its support of aspiring artists, Guitar Center (www.guitarcenter.com), the world's largest musical instrument retailer, announced Guitar Center Presents Your Next Record with Slash a first-of-its-kind, unsigned band competition that provides emerging artists the chance to win the ultimate career-altering opportunity: record a 3-song EP with legendary producer, Mike Clink (Guns N' Roses, Mötley Crüe, Megadeth) and have Slash write, record and perform on the winning artists' single. Starting today, through April 30th, 2010 bands across the United States are invited to submit their music at YourNextRecord.com for a chance to win the aforementioned prize package, which also includes: A management development deal with "The Collective" (Linkin Park, Slash, Avenged Sevenfold) ·Feature of winning artists' single on iTunes ·Worldwide distribution of winning artists' music through Tunecore ·$10,000 Guitar Center Shopping Spree ·New gear and endorsement deals from Ernie Ball Music Man ·An opening slot on Slash's Monster Energy Bash ·An editorial feature on the winning band in Guitar World Magazine. A Guitar Center Presents Your Next Record with Slash teaser can be viewed here at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWOluHHoccE. "The formula that used to work for discovering new artists has been decimated and the opportunities for really talented bands to be heard is extremely limited," said Slash. "That's why it's so important to me and Guitar Center to provide a situation where new talent can be discovered. This is an incredibly interesting way to find and help launch a really great band that hasn't been able to get their foot in the door otherwise." JSS INTERVIEWED ON ROCKAST: Jeff Scott Soto appears on the premier episode of RocKasT (a new offering from the Metalkast Podcast/Radio Show team). Notably, in addition to discussing history and future plans, he addresses the passing of his friend Marcel Jacob (Talisman, Europe). In regard to the late Marcel Jacob, Soto states: "There's one thing I'd like to mention, just as a sidebar to and out of respect to my recently departed bass player Marcel Jacob from Talisman. We're going to be doing a memorial show for him in Stockholm, I guess like the third week in February. Something like that. We don't have the exact date yet but...it's something that's still really difficult for me to discuss. It's something for me to even believe he's gone right now and I'm just going to pour my heart and soul into this thing because it's my final...I guess final farewell to my brother...my brother in arms without getting to cliche here. And that's the only other thing I haven't addressed in this interview. Losing him is like literally losing a limb. It's like losing a family member. A lot of people keep asking me if Talisman will continue and, at this point, I can speak for the rest of us. We have no intention of moving on without Marcel. Maybe we'll do a tour or a few shows together as a tribute to him, a memorial thing, but, at this point Talisman is done. There's no point in continuing or even discussing it without Marcel." He goes on to say: "Marcel and I, through the years, especially the latter part of these past few years, we hadn't had too much contact. When we were touring and doing albums regularly, we had more contact but, as I was branching off on my solo career, and Journey, Soul Sirkus, all these things were coming into my life, we had less and less communication. But, when we did speak there were always these discussions of getting together and, you know, let's do a new album. Let's see if we still got the fire and still got the magic and somewhere, along all of this, I still feel like I'm gonna get that call from him. It's so hard for me to believe that he's gone. But, on a positive note, like I said, we're going to do this show for him and it's going to be a final farewell from all the people that worked with him. The different alumni of Talisman, possibly some members of Europe. It's just going to be a big celebration of his legacy and the things that we remember him by. It's gonna be awesome." Full Interview: web.me.com/metalkast/METALKAST/Podcast/Entries/2010/1/30_RocKasT_2010%3A_EPISODE_001.html. FATES WARNING TO RELEASE DELUXE EDITION OF PARALLELS ON MARCH 16: Fates Warning has announced the release of the deluxe edition of their seminal 1991 album, Parallels! Fans can get their hands on this new take on the album on March 16th, 2010. The deluxe edition has been completely re-mastered and contains well over 3 hours of music and live footage. Parallels is the sixth record from the prog metal pioneers and was one of their music successful releases due to the commercial success of the singles Eye To Eye, Point Of View and We Only Say Goodbye. Also, James LaBrie of Dream Theater fame makes a guest appearance on the track Life In Still Water. Parallels has proven to be one of the most influential albums in the prog and metal genres, despite its hotly debated status among fans as a "commercial" sounding album. Vocalist Ray Alder comments further, "I think its one of the best albums we ever put out and Im happy that fans have the chance to take a second look at this important record. The lineup, the songs and the cover art all came together to make a great package when originally recorded and the bonus DVD really adds a fresh perspective to the album." Fans can watch a trailer for the DVD portion of this deluxe edition now on Metal Blades youtube channel. Disc 1 - Parallels - 1. Leave the Past Behind, 2. Life in Still Water, 3. Eye to Eye, 4. The Eleventh Hour, 5. Point Of View, 6. We Only Say Goodbye, 7. Dont Follow Me, 8. The Road Goes on Forever. Disc 2 - Parallels - Recorded Live in Hollywood, CA January 23rd, 1992 - 1. Leave the Past Behind, 2. Don't Follow Me, 3. Eleventh Hour, 4. Point of View, 5. Eye to Eye, 6. Nothing Left To Say, 7. Quietus, 8. Through Different Eyes. Demo tracks - 9. Leave the Past Behind, 10.Eye to Eye , 11.Eleventh Hour, 12.Point of View, 13.Don't Follow Me. DVD - 80 Minute concert filmed Live in New Haven, CT February 13, 1992 / Original Promotional Videos for Eye To Eye and Point Of View. / 75 minute documentary on the making of Parallels. Includes: current interviews with all band members as well as acclaimed producer Terry Brown and Metal Blade Records CEO and founder, Brian Slagel. Plus, studio footage from the Parallels sessions and additional live performances from the 1992 tour. WebLink: www.fateswarning.com / www.myspace.com/fateswarning. RELEASE BRIEFS: A little info has come through on some upcoming items. First Extreme - the new untitled Live DVD/2CD set comes out in Japan March 24 (and elsewhere after that) and features footage and audio of the band's August 8, 2009 performance in Boston. The DVD includes four music videos from the album "Saudades de Rock" (subject to change). And Chickenfoot follow up the two separate versions of their debut with a live DVD release, simply titled.....Live! Featuring footage of the band's September 23, 2009 performance at Dodge Theater in Arizona and as featured in select cinemas in December. That's out March 31 in Japan and early April elsewhere. JOHN PAYNE TO PRESENT POLLSTAR AWARD FEBRUARY 17: Los Angeles, CA - John Payne, vocalist/bassist for Asia Featuring John Payne is scheduled to present an award at the 21st Century Pollstar Awards at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles, California on Wednesday, February 17th. This year's show is hosted by Kathleen Madigan - the comedian Lewis Black describes as "the funniest woman in America". Voting for awards was conducted entirely online in a variety of categories including Major Tour of the Year; Most Creative Tour Package; Talent Buyer of the Year; Best Touring Artist; Music Festival of the Year; among others. Additional presenters include Alan Parsons, Al Jarreau, Rob Halford, Ronnie Montrose, and Jimmy Van Zant. More info about the Pollstar Awards show is available at: www.pollstarpro.com/live2010/Awards/pollstarawards-index.html. INTERVIEW BRIEFS: Steve Perry has surfaced for a new radio interview with the UK specialist broadcaster Planet Rock Radio. He discusses the iconic history of some Journey tunes including that song that just won't go away and his developing plans for the future. Download the interview in MP3 at: www.hullrockers.co.uk/forummusic/steveperry.mp3. Piercing Metal just posted a piece on Hail, the Heavy Metal supergroup with Ripper Owens and Mike Portnoy: piercingmetal.com/wordpress/?p=3025. Carmine Appice will be the special guest on Hard Rock Nights February 5-11. Appice discusses a wide range of topics including many of his former bands, his session work with top names, the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame, and the progress of the new King Kobra formation with Paul Shortino on vocals. In addition, the drummer also talks about his Guitar Zeus project and SLAMM!! Appice also touches on the subject of a Blue Murder reunion with John Sykes and where that currently stands. Along with the chat, JT will be spinning several tracks from Appice's career. Hard Rock Nights is a weekly syndicated radio program broadcast on a number of rock and metal radio stations. A full list of stations and airtimes can be found at: hardrocknights.wordpress.com/affiliates. On this weeks Hair Metal Haven Chris Nelson will be talking to Geoff Tate of Queensryche about their current album American Soldier, his new vineyards and their plans for this year. Then on the Power Hour he'll be talking to Michael Eden and Paul Logue of Edens Curse about the up and coming new album. Also you can win tickets for you and 3 of your friends for this years Hammerfest Festival in Wales. For all the best new sounds on the Melodic Rock & Metal Scene, Saturday 6th Feb, 5.00-7.00pm UK time on www.phoenixradio.co.uk. NEW HALCYON WAY ON NIGHTMARE RECORDS: Halcyon Way complete tracking for new album Atlanta progressive metal band Halcyon Way has completed the tracking for their new CD, to be released late Spring by Nightmare Records. The album was produced by Lasse Lammert (Alestorm, Svartsot) and guitarist Jon Bodan. Drums were engineered by Mike Froedge (doubleDrive, Bloodsimple, Speed X) at Open Sky Studios in Atlanta. Lammert is mixing the album at his studio, LSD-Tonstudio in Germany. The new release is the follow-up to the critically acclaimed debut by the band, A Manifesto For Domination. It features the debut of new vocalist Steve Braun (Ashent, Siloam), as well as a guest appearance by Pamela Moore of Queensryche fame. "We're incredibly excited about the new material," said guitarist Jon Bodan. "This album is a quantum leap forward for Halcyon Way – the material is both heavier and more aggressive, but it also is far catchier and more melodic at the same time than Manifesto. The guys in the band all stepped their individual games up, and the material is better for it. Lasse did a great job on the production, and we expect the mixdown and mastering process to be completed by the end of February." Halcyon Way has appeared live with many bands such as Helloween, Strapping Young Lad, TYR, Kamelot, Symphony X, Doro Pesch, Cathedral, Virgin Black, Samael, Vicious Rumors, Seven Witches, and many others. In addition they have appeared at ProgPower USA on two occasions, and at Rocklahoma 2008 and 2009. For more information, visit: www.NightmareRecords.com / www.halcyonway.com. WILDESTARR OFFER SMASHING INTRODUCTION WITH FIRST-EVER VIDEO, 'ARRIVAL': You only get one chance to make a first impression, and the fast-rising metallic duo, WildeStarr, are certainly off to a great start with their recently released clip for the song Arrival. The video is a visually stunning sci-fi work of art combining dark elements of Blade Runner, Batman, The Outer Limits, and classic film noir. The dramatic visuals are a perfect compliment to the power and intensity of WildeStarr's headbanging fury - and metalheads will soon get the opportunity to check out this striking clip. WildeStarr's Incredible symphonic melodic metal blends new and old influences to create a unique and original sound. Comprised of guitarist Dave Starr (who originally came to the attention of metalheads as the bassist for such acts as Vicious Rumors and Chastain) and singer London Wilde (who re-defines female-fronted metal), the group's debut album, also titled Arrival, was just issued on Furnace Maximus Records, and has racked up some impressive accolades. UFO guitarist Vinnie Moore says: "Dave and London open up a big ole can of melodic heavy metal whoop ass on this one. At times the tunes remind me a little of Dream Theater. This CD definitely rocks heavily!" And now with their new video clip for Arrival, the duo are geared up to pick up more fans worldwide. To view the video, please visit www.wildestarr.com / www.myspace.com/wildestarr. BACK TO THE RHYTHM THAT THEY ALL CAME FROM: British power trio The Outfield, continue to record their 7th studio album in London, England. The current recording sessions are regarded as the band's best work in years which includes, Play Deep (1985), Bangin' (1987) and Voices Of Babylon (1989). Songs like 'Your Love', 'All The Love In The World' and 'Since You've Been Gone' stand out like true rock cannons to this day. The new songs signal a return to the classic Outfield sound, energy filled power pop in a way that recalls Play Deep while at the same time streaked with the sort of textures and accents they have mastered over their multi Platinum career. While much has changed, the critical elements of the band's special chemistry remain. The Outfield is comprised of the same three musicians, John Spinks, Tony Lewis and Alan Jackman. They are still holding fast to principles and making inspirational power pop music 30 years later after their humble beginnings in London's East End. WebLink: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnMct0JTUHE. (Alan Jackman in a London studio recording drums for the track 'Baby I'm Crazy')

 

 

Wednesday, February 03, 2010

FRONTIERS RECORDS ANNOUNCES NEW PROJECTS: Erik Martensson (Eclipse, W.E.T) has been busy writing songs for the first solo album of the fantastic American vocalist Toby Hitchcock. Toby has been singing on three studio and one live album with Pride Of Lions, the band put together by Jim Peterik: founding member of the legendary AOR band Survivor. The whole album will be produced at Martensson's Blowout Productions Studios in Sweden. Musically will explore some heavier and more contemporary material for Toby, but will still keep some incredible melodies very close to the most recent Journey sound. You can expect a true Melodic Rock gem for the second half of 2010.   Circus Maximus singer extraordinaire Michael Eriksen and Finnish producer/guitarist Torsti Spoof (Leverage) have decided to join forces together in a new band project under The Magnificent moniker. Other musicians scheduled to appear on the album include Kalle Torniainen of Brother Firetribe on drums and Pekka Lampinen of Leverage on bass. Songwriting is well underway and sees contributions also from Pekka Heino (Brother Firetribe, Leverage), Tomppa Nikulainen (Brother Firetribe), Tuomas Heikkinen (Leverage) and Sami Hyde and others. Soundwise the album will sound like a cross between the heavier approach of Leverage with the hooks and melodies of Brother Firetribe. The recording will be completed during the winter, with Frontiers looking to release the debut album after the summer 2010.   xx Outloud announce the release of their second video clip "Tonite" (click on the title to watch the clip), which was directed by Bob Katsionis for the Progressive Vision Group. In December 2009 the band completed their first 6 successful headline shows in Greece which was supported by Jack Daniel's. The content and concept of "Tonite" is based on the tours footage on and off stage and simply shows the energy on stage, character and fun the band has! Outloud will soon announce their touring schedule for 2010 and plans for their second album. Their highly acclaimed first CD and video clip of their hit single "We Run" was released by Frontiers Records on August 28th in Europe, September 15th in North America and September 30th in Japan and has received outstanding reviews from the international press and fans. Both clips were directed by Bob Katsionis, who owns his own video production company Progressive Vision Group. Bob also directed Firewind's Head up High and the new video of Iron Maiden's Steve Harris' daughter Lauren Harris. Winger announced the second leg of the European tour dates: 19/03/10 Leknes, Norway - Lekneshallen (small sports arena) 20/03/10 Norway/Denmark - Rock the Boat 22/03/10 Bristol, England - Academy 2 23/03/10 Portmouth, England - Wedgewood Rooms 24/03/10 Manchester, England - Academy 3 26/03/10 Dudley, England - JB's 27/03/10 Belfast, Northern Ireland - Spring & Airbrake 28/03/10 Glasgow, Scotland - Cathouse 30/03/10 Newcastle, England - Academy 2 31/03/10 Leeds, England - Rio's 02/04/10 Sheffield, England - Corporation 03/04/10 Nottingham, England - Rock City 04/04/10 London, England - Islington Academy 06/04/10 Bochum, Germany - Matrix 07/04/10 Berlin, Germany - Columbia Club 08/04/10 Munich, Germany - Backstage 10/04/10 Achaffenburg, Germany - Colos Saal In related news Kip Winger and Reb Beach have recently recorded their participation to That Metal Show on VH1. The show will be aired on April 3 at 11.00 PM. Bruce Kulick third solo album BK3 released in Europe on January 29 on Frontiers is getting very good responses from press and fans. It is now possible to enjoy Bruce Kulick's own album presentation following this link on the Frontiers Records YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXJ99DxWXYg. Enjoy! Giant have launched the band's new official website at www.gianttheband.com and the new MySpace page www.myspace.com/gianttheband2010. It is possible to watch the band's video clip of Promise Land the single off the new album which is set to be released on February 26 in Europe and March 9 in the USA. Rick Springfield has confirmed the following tour dates in Europe in the summer 2010. June 11 Sweden Rock Festival - Solvesborg, Sweden June 12 Rockefeller Music Hall - Oslo, Norway June 13 Weingarten Open Air Festival - Weingarten, Germany In related news Rick Springfield will re-release in Europe on Frontiers Records his last hit album "Venus In Overdrive" with the addition of the "Live in Rockford" DVD on February 26. Perfect companion for this release is the treasure chest of Rick Springfield / Jeff Silverman From the Vault, a release which includes some rare and unreleased demos from Grammy-Award-Winner Rick Springfield and veteran producer, engineer, songwriter, and lead-guitar player from his first touring band, Jeff Silverman. Swedish Melodic Rock band Work Of Art is well underway in the recording of the highly anticipated second album. Almost all the songs are now recorded and the band is planning to start the mixing sessions during February for a release pencilled for late summer 2010. Frontiers Records is proud to present the new issue of Melodic Rock Fanzine. The 36th release of our successful magazine is available for free all over the world through record shops, mail-order and every fine dealer carrying the Frontiers Records releases. Here are the previews of the two Melodic Rock Fanzine covers:   xx This new issue includes reviews and interviews of Giant, Keel, The Murder Of My Sweet, Sora, Angels Of Babylon, Brian Howe, The Fire, Jon Oliva's Pain, Orden Ogan, Heavenly, Rick Springfield / Jeff Silverman, Stage Dolls, Wig Wam, Bruce Kulick... and more! Electronic readable version of the magazine is available on the Frontiers official site and here. PREVIEW NEW AURAS RELEASE: Auras was a special splash screen feature here yesterday, so what better time than now to unleash a couple of other samples from their upcoming album New Religion. Download - Forgive and Forget and Never Give Up.   ROCK SUGAR SET TO ROCK YOUR WORLD: Time to put a smile on your face. The momentum behind this new band has been growing since day 1. A project 20 years in the making, Los Angeles rock n roll band Rock Sugar features Loud & Clear's Jess Harnell (Vocals), Chuck Duran (Guitars & Vocals) and Alex Track - Drums & Vocals. Johnny Five rounds out the band on Bass & Vocals. Just what is Rock Sugar? It's great songs like you've never heard them before with the attitude of seasoned veterans of the scene, overflowing with energy and bursting through your speakers, like all good hard rock should.   The band take nearly 30 classic pop and hard rock tracks and mesh them into a sensational 13 tracks, which make the debut album Reimaginator. The track listing is (with original artists in brackets): Don't Stop The Sandman (Journey & Metallica); We Will Kickstart Your Rhapsody (Queen & Motley Crue); Crazy Girl (Ozzy Osbourne & Rick Springfield); Voices In The Jungle (Guns N Roses & Til Tuesday); Here Comes The Fool You Wanted (Eurythmics, Cinderella & Bon Jovi); Shook Me Like A Prayer (AC/DC & Madonna); Straight To Rock City (Kiss & Paula Abdul); Prayin' For A Sweet Weekend (Loverboy, Guns N Roses & Bon Jovi); Heaven And Heaven (Bryan Adams & Warrant); Breakin' The Love (Judas Priest & 10CC); I Love Sugar On Me (Def Leppard & Joan Jett); Round And Separated (Ratt & Journey); Dreaming Of A Whole Lotta Breakfast (Aerosmith, Supertramp & Led Zeppelin). But you seriously have to hear it to believe it. The debut single has a cool video you can view at YouTube: Don't Stop The Sandman. And here are no less than 5 more fine samples to check out. Purchase the album now at: www.rocksugarband.com.   We Will Kickstart Your Rhapsody Crazy Girl Voices In The Jungle Prayin' For A Sweet Weekend Dreaming Of A Whole Lotta Breakfast THE BEST OF RATT ON NEW SINGLE: The first taste of Ratt's new studio album (due April 20) is out now in the form of the lead single Best Of Me. Hear and purchase the single via this links: www.roadrunnerrecords.com/music/RATT--Best-of-Me-2920.aspx and www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_8?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-music&field-keywords=ratt+best+of+me&sprefix=ratt+bes.   INTERVIEW BRIEFS: TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest Podcast (episode #95), featuring vocalist Paul Shortino. Paul took time out of his busy schedule to discuss his latest release Chasing My Dream as well as other current projects. Paul gives us the lowdown of how his latest CD came together as well as what fans can expect for the new year. Interview last approx. 60 min. Are you ready to rock? Well strap yourself in, because we are about to bring you one of our heaviest interviews yet. In our 8th installment of TRTR's An Evening With… series, the boys sat down with Paul Shortino to discuss his latest CD, Chasing My Dream, as well as his involvement in the recent King Kobra reunion. Whether it be music or politics, Paul lays it all out there, and lets you know what he really thinks. Ron Keel checked in with Hardrock Haven to discuss the release of the first studio album of the Keel reunion called Streets of Rock & Roll; how they celebrated the 25-year anniversary of The Right to Rock; what it felt like writing music together again after all those years apart; hooking up with a great label in Frontiers Records; upcoming tour plans in Europe and the U.S.; and a whole lot more. To hear the audio interview, head to: hardrockhaven.net/online/2010/ron-keel-of-keel/. Sterling Whitaker has uploaded the first two parts of his recent interview with Kerry Minnear from Gentle Giant: www.wewillrockyoublog.com/2010/02/02/interview-with-kerry-minnear-of-gentle-giant-part-two/. TWINSPIRITS ANNOUNCE "ITALY IN PROGRESS 2010" TOUR: Twinspirits and OnStage Booking are pleased to announce the second leg of "Italy In Progress Tour", which will kick off in April 2010. "Italy In Progress 2010" Ytsejam Kr + Twinspirits + Guest 01/04/2010 "Genova In Progress 2010" Mep Disco – Sestri Levante (Genova) 02/04/2010 "Alessandria In Progress 2010" Mephisto – Lu Monferrato (Alessandria) 03/04 /2010 "Reggio Emilia In Progress 2010" Corallo - Scandiano (Reggio Emilia) 04/04/2010 "Como In Progress 2010" Motorockas – Mozzate (Como) 05/04/2010 "Venezia In Progress 2010" Revolver/Fuorigiri – S.Dona' Di Piave (Venezia) In these shows Twinspirits will play songs from their new album "The Forbidden City", released by Lion Music in September 2009. Every show will be co-headlined by Ytsejam Kr, an impressive combo that held the "Official Dream Theater Tribute Band" title from November 25th 2006 until December 31st 2007. But there's even more! Every gig will host a cool prog-metal band as an opening act, for the best progressive experience ever! They guest bands already confirmed so far are Odd Dimension for the show in Alessandria and the Nightwish cover band Century Children for the show in Venezia. Stay tuned, more updates are coming soon!

 

 

Tuesday, February 02, 2010

MelodicRockFest 2 will be held in the Chicago suburb of Elgin, on the weekend of Friday April 30 - Sunday May 2. The line-up is just days away from being revealed - a few last minute back and forth details need to be sorted and then you'll know ASAP! But here are a few details I can reveal now. Saturday will feature 8 acts and Sunday will feature 7. There is the chance of someone being added at the last minute, but that'll be included in the announcement coming up. Both nights feature name headliners. Bands worthy of the title! There will be a VIP ticket issued, but strictly 200 tickets only! The ticket will get folks into the Saturday and Sunday show plus an exclusive Friday night acoustic show/Meet & Greet (with as many artists as possible), which will feature 3 or 4 exclusive artists doing unplugged sets. Full details of the VIP deal included with the show launch. The venue is a newly renovated bar - a 1000 capacity - with standing room on the floor and a smaller balcony, but a restaurant attached for those needed rest periods! So there will be 200 VIP tickets for the weekend and 800 general tickets available for each day/the weekend. Tickets will be on sale RIGHT HERE! Tickets will be sold by MelodicRock.com via Paypal on a first come first served basis. Hopefully we can sell this baby out! I expect tickets to go on sale on February 15th or 16th. Tickets will then be posted out in a few weeks time. Ticket prices: Weekend VIP Pass (200 only) - US$175 Saturday Day Ticket - $55 Sunday Day Ticket - $55 Saturday/Sunday Combo - $100 Thoughts/comments/feedback/questions - let me know! AXEL RUDI PELL'S NEW CREST: Axel Rudi Pell signed worldwide deal with SPV/Steamhammer. New studio album will be released on April 26. With an impressive 20 releases in 21 years, the Axel Rudi Pell Band counts among the most consistent, lasting and creative acts in the whole of Europe. Very few German guitarists can point to as long and successful a career as the musician from Bochum, whose unmistakable signature marks not only his characteristic guitar style, but also his compositional skills. April 26th, 2010 (Germany: April 23rd, 2010) will see the arrival of his thirteenth studio offering, The Crest, a haunting studio album featuring ten brand-new compositions. "Our fans will get just the kind of songs they have come to know and expect from me and my band," says Pell. The Crest was recorded at W:A:T: Studios in Bochum by the tried and tested line-up consisting of Axel Rudi Pell, American vocalist Johnny Gioeli, keyboardist Ferdy Doernberg, bassist Volker Krawczak and drummer Mike Terrana. The album was produced by Axel Rudi Pell, with the engineering help of Torsten Sickert and mixed by Charlie Bauerfeind at the Mi Sueno Studios (Teneriffe) and the Twilight Hall Studios (Grefrath). The majestic cover artwork was created this time by the English artist Martin McKenna. The fans can look forward to their next tour in May 2010, festivals appearances in the summer and a second part of the tour in autumn 2010 - more details coming soon. The label and the artist share a legacy now from 1987 `til today and is still counting. WebLinks: www.axel-rudi-pell.de / www.spv.de. JOE PERRY TALKS SOLO ALBUM, STEVEN TYLER & WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS FOR AEROSMITH: Joe Perry of Aerosmith recently did an interview with Jeb Wright of Classic Rock Revisited for the radio show Decades of Distortion. Joe has released, and is on the road promoting a new album titled "Have Guitar Will Travel." Joe discusses the new album in detail and how his wife discovered his new singer, a German named Hagen. During the chat, Jeb point blank asks Joe about Steven Tyler's odd behavior of singing at Kareoke bars and Home Depot retail outlets. Jeb even asks Joe if Aerosmith would consider a woman to fill in for Steven Tyler. Joe's answers may surprise even his biggest fans. Check it all out here: www.classicrockrevisited.com/interviewJoePerry.htm. And in related news - www.billboard.com/#/news/exclusive-steven-tyler-could-sue-to-stop-1004063861.story. BOBBY BLOTZER RELEASES STATEMENT: You might recall news of Ratt drummer Bobby Blotzer being arrested recently for a domestic dispute. Bobby has released this statement: "The stories of a relationship problem I had in December 2009 are significantly overstated. To my friends and fans, you know how gossip over public figures can get blown out of proportion. What is being disseminated is not within my character and an insult. I was arrested, not charged for this misunderstanding we had last month. Public record shows that the " suspected felony " charge was dismissed by DA's office. I consider this the end of a unfortunate personal family issue that has seeped its way on to the computer screens around the globe." - Bobby Blotzer. RANDY RHOADS LIVE TRIBUTE DATES: Kelle Rhoads, Kelly Garni and Ronny North will be joining forces again to play 3 Randy Rhoads Tribute Concerts in Japan on March 15-17th 2010. The shows will be in Osaka, Tokyo and Nogaya. Kelle Rhoads the brother of Randy will be handling vocals for the shows. Kelly Garni the original Quiet Riot bassist played alongside Randy in the band and was a close friend of both Randy and Kelle. Ronny North was invited by Kelle Rhoads to play guitar with the guys at a recent Randy Rhoads event and they hit if off so well at the show that they decided to do it again in Japan. The project is billed as "A Tribute to Randy Rhoads project" featuring Kelle Rhoads, Kelly Garni and Ronny North. The band will be in Japan for a week and will be doing a bunch of signing events as well as press the entire time. WebLink: www.randyrhoads.us. PASTOR BRAD AND SPECIAL GUESTS: Roxx Records is very proud to announce the Spring release of Pastor Brad's 'Break Out'! After 5 independent instrumental shred albums, Pastor Brad is back with his fourth full-length vocal album and his first on Roxx Records! While the old-school guitar shred influences are still here, this album will hit you square in the face with some of the heaviest sounding riffs ever recorded on any Pastor Brad album! What started out as a true solo CD turned in to a very special release with tons of special guest artists! The album is set to feature the following very special guest appearances… Ken Tamplin, Les Carlsen (of Bloodgood), Rachel Anne (of Iron Majesty), Chaz Bond (of Jacob's Dream), Richie Z (of Blind Seven), Dave Merriwether (of Stricken), Jim Griffin (of Griffin X), Norman 'Ski' Kiersznowski (of Faith Factor), Luke Weber (of The Pastor Brad Band), Angel Zamora. As an added bonus the first 100 pre-orders of this special release will come with a bonus disc entitled 'Best of the Rest' a bonus disc of rarities, unreleased tracks and also some of the 'Break Out' tracks featuring Pastor Brad handling all the vocals! (they were just too good not to put out) So if you're a Pastor Brad fan you will definitely want to get in on the pre-order for this one! This debut Roxx Release is set to hit the streets on April 27, 2010 and will be available everywhere! Visit www.roxxproductions.com for all the details.

 

 

Monday, February 01, 2010

FRONTIERS GET CRAZY WITH NEW LIXX: Frontiers Records announces the release of Crazy Lixx second album New Religion on March 19 in Europe and April 6 in the USA. Crazy Lixx, one of the most exciting bands to come out of the Sleaze-Rock movement renaissance in Sweden, together with Crashdïet, Hardcore Superstar, Babylon Bombs and Vains of Jenna, are back with the release of the brand new album entitled New Religion. Crazy Lixx was formed in 2002 in Malmö, Sweden. The core line-up up until the first album consisted of vocalist Danny Rexon (also known as Dirtchild Danny or D.C. Danny), guitarist Vic Zino, drummer Joél Cirera and bass player Loke Rivano. The current line-up features guitarist Andy Dawson in Vic Zino's place after the latter joined Hardcore Superstar. Crazy Lixx debuted with Loud Minority in November 2007, an album that notwithstanding an underground release, received a great acclaim from the media and fans, reaching position #2 in the national Swedish Hard Rock chart. The band spent all of 2008 and parts of 2009 touring like hell all over Europe and writing material for the new album, working hard to define their own music style which, even though was often compared to the likes of Def Leppard, KISS, Warrant and Skid Row, it has now matured and evolved in a personal and ultra-melodic interpretation of the Sleaze-Arena Hard Rock style. The final result is New Religion, the new album which includes a dozen Hard Rock gems (out of over the double amount of songs written) recorded at Polar Studios in Stockholm, along with producer Chris Laney (Europe, Crashdïet, Candlemass). "We set out with one goal, and that was to beat the living s**t out of "Loud Minority" with these new songs, and if you ask me, we've beaten it black and blue. I can't wait to get these new songs played live", states singer Danny Rexon. And thanks to killer anthems like My Medicine and such cuts as The Witching Hour, Children of the Cross, Rock and a Hard Place and 21 'til I Die (just to name a few), the guys can consider their mission accomplished and look at 2010 as a key year to break their talent on to the international markets! New Religion includes the following tracks: Rock and a Hard Place; My Medicine; 21 'Til I Die; Blame it on Love; Road to Babylon; Children of the Cross; The Witching Hour; Lock up Your Daughter; She's Mine; What of Our Love; Desert Bloom; Voodoo Woman. Crazy Lixx are: Danny Rexon, vocals; Andy Dawson, guitars; Joél Cirera, drums; Loke Rivano, bass. Weblinks: www.crazylixx.com / www.myspace.com/crazylixxmusic / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx NEW GENERATION HEARALDED BY AURAS AND FRONTIERS: Frontiers Records to release Auras anticipated debut album New Generation on March 19 in Europe and April 6 in the USA. Hailing from Brazil, Auras is one of the most exciting new acts to hit the AOR-rock scene in the past few years and with the release of their debut album New Generation they are ready to prove the world that acts such as Journey, The Storm, Toto and Survivor have found a credible heir from South America! Auras was formed in the beginning of 2007 by singer Gui Oliver and guitarist Ferpa Lacerda. Tired of playing in cover bands and feeling they were musically mature enough, both musicians decided to write some new music. The first song coming out of this collaboration Hungry Hearts was sent out to several producers and musicians around the world, gathering some very warm response. Gui and Ferpa therefore kept on writing more material until their songs landed on Frontiers Records desk who some immediately some concrete interest, making Auras the first band from South America to sign with the label. "New Generation is the result of years of hard work and faith in our music", explains Gui Oliver. "It sounds corny, but it's really a dream that came true especially for a Brazilian band where this kind of music is not very popular. We really have to thank Frontiers for their trust and support." Being a real band, not just a studio project, Auras had their live debut supporting their idols Jeff Scott Soto and Jimi Jamison in Curitiba, Auras hometown. Hearing the band play, Jamison mentioned that Auras songs took him back to the eighties and reminded him of the great bands of that period. "Artists like Toto, Journey and Survivor", tells Gui, "are known worldwide and in Brazil it's not different: their classic hits are still on the radio. Their music touched me in different ways. It was not only the beautiful and amazing melodies, but their songs also had great lyrics. Ferpa also grew up in a very musical family and this kind of music was always part of his life. Definitely melodic rock and AOR in Brazil is not for the masses but we have a faithful and loyal audience. We received lots of emails of people saying how proud they were of us about the album." During the recording process the great jazz drummer Edu Sallum, who had already played with Rafael Moreira (Pink, Christina Aguilera, Rockstar INXS, Paul Stanley), joined the band, and the local studio musicians Matheus Brandon and Hemerson Vieira helped to complete New Generation. The album was finally mixed and mastered to sonic perfection by Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69, Sunstorm, Place Vendome, Khymera etc.). Love, dreams, faith and hope are what Auras music is all about. New Generation includes the following tracks: Beauty Of Dreams (previewed on Rock The Bones vol. 7 compilation); Forgive and Forget; Never Give Up; In My Arms; Reach Out; New Generation; Forever In Your Eyes; Hungry Hearts; That's the Way Love Goes; Keep On Loving You; Out of Love; Love To Survive. Includes Beauty of Dreams videoclip. Auras: Gui Oliver – lead vocals; Ferpa Lacerda – guitars and background vocals; Edu Sallum – drums and percussion with Matheus Brandon – guitars and background vocals and Hemerson Vieira – bass. Weblinks: www.myspace.com/auraaor / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx AOR HEAVEN - THE RELEASES FOR MARCH 26: FM - Metropolis: The mighty FM return with a new album in classic FM style! 12 years after their split in 1995, at Nottingham Rock City on 27th October 2007, after considering (and declining) multiple previous approaches from the organisers of a melodic hard rock all-dayer called the Firefest, Merv, Steve, Pete, Andy and Jem finally played together again in public for the first time. With stage two of the group's career about to begin, they were disappointed to accept the resignation of Andy Barnett. However, with an exciting new guitarist on board these plans are now firmly back on target. Brought into the band at Steve Overland's suggestion, Jim Kirkpatrick was already a huge fan of FM so it was an honor to accept the chance of joining a group whose records he loved. Kirkpatrick was blooded at a low-key gig at Wigan's Winstanley College in March 2009. All too aware of the way others have fallen at the same hurdle, FM have taken their time in completing a comeback disc, 'Metropolis', which drops in March 2010. Line-Up: Steve Overland (vocals, guitars), Merv Goldsworthy (bass), Pete Jupp (Drums), Jem Davis (Keyboards), Jim Kirkpatrick (Guitars). Track list: 01.Wildside, 02.Hollow, 03.Flamingo Rd, 04.Unbreakable, 05.Days Gone By, 06.Metropolis, 07.Over You, 08.Don't Need Nothin', 09.Bring Back Yesterday, 10.I Ain't The One, 11.Extra Mile, 12.Who'll Stop The Rain, 13.The Fight Goes On. Soundfiles in advance: Wildside / Hollow / I Ain't The One. WebLink: www.fmofficial.com.   xx Serpentine - A Touch Of Heaven: Serpentine was originally founded around award winning keyboard maestro, driving force and songwriter Gareth David Noon; lion-maned guitarist Christopher Gould and bassist Gareth Van Stone. Drawing their name from the mythical creatures and legends whose lore was passed down through the ages, their quest was to acquaint their peers with a genre of music that still resonates down the decades. The trio spent a lot of their time in the studio, working constantly to develop their songs into demos that would showcase the band's true talent. It was while making these demo's that the band decided to complement the group with the experienced American vocalist Greg Flores, whose work they had heard via his previous band - the highly rated Kamera. Three short months later the fledgling recordings piqued the interest of Producer Chris Steinmetz whose credentials include Survivor, White Lion, Styx and Honeymoon Suite to name but a few. The initial results gained the band a great deal of interest. Ultimately however working with a singer based in the US proved difficult and the quest for a new vocalist began. Enter the legendary Tony Mills of Shy and TNT fame. Last Summer the group, having recruited the last pieces of the jigsaw in the shape of the prodigiously talented guitarist/vocalist John Clews and a drummer who can only be described as Keith Moon's lost love-child - Charlie Skeggs, de-camped to M2 Studios in Wolverhampton. There under the guiding hand of Producer Mark V Stuart ( whose work with Magnum is well known ) together with whizz-kid Sheena Sear they produced a record that in October 2009 got the band signed to a worldwide deal with the German based AOR Heaven label. Line-Up: Vocals - Tony Mills, Guitars - Christopher Gould, Guitars - John Clews, Keyboards - Gareth David Noon, Bass - Gareth Vanstone, Drums - Roy Millward. Tracklist: 1. A Touch Of Heaven, 2. Whatever Heartache, 3. Lonely Nights, 4. For The Love Of It All, 5. Let Love Rain Down, 6. In My Blood, 7. Fashion, 8. We Belong, 9. Love Suicide, 10. Unbreak My Heart. Soundfiles in advance: A Touch Of Heaven / Let Love Rain Down / Whatever Heartache. WebLink: www.myspace.com/planetserpentine.   xx 7TH HEAVEN IN NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: 7th heaven were recently cast into the national spotlight when singer Keith Semple auditioned for American Idol, was accepted into the Hollywood stage and then later rejected on visa complications. The band states: "Keith Semple (our lead singer) auditioned for American Idol Season 9 (2010) and made it though all the rounds and got a Golden Ticket to Hollywood. What happens next??? Watch Fox News this Tuesday night at 9pm to find out. We love playing and as long as you keep coming out to see us play, we'll continue to be there." The complete story right here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjOSeO9KsIA.   RHINE ROCK RECORDS SET FOR WICKED TEMPTATION: Rhine Rock Records presented the fantastic hard rock debut of the German band Wicked Temptation. Ex-Vengeance drummer Hans in't Zandt is back on the scene! The drummer who has also played in bands as Terra Nova and Angel Dust is working his drumkit now for Wicked Temptation! Wicked Temptation is featuring Peter Wagner (ex-Powergod) on guitar, Marc Hermann (ex-Jo Hartmann Band) on bass and Dirk Hackenberg (ex-Salvage, Essex) on vocals. In the Rhein-Ruhr-area Dirk Hackenberg is also known from the cover band Powerstation with ex-Running Wild-guitarist Bernd Aufermann on guitars. The music of Wicked Temptation can be described as hard n' heavy rock of the 80ies and 90ies, in tradition of icons as Ozzy Osbourne or Dokken. The debut album called Seein' Ain't Believin' which will be released at Rhine Rock Records/Sony Music on March 14. More info: www.wicked-temptation.de / www.rockpapas.de. You can order this Release and other at info@rockpapas.de.   xx NEW LABEL FOR FOR HARD ROCKERS: Escape Music will release the new Hard album Time Is Waiting For No One on February 19. Band: Björn Lodin - vocals, guitars; Balázs Hornyák - drums; Gábor Mirkovics - bass; Zsolt Csillik - guitars; Zsolt Vamos - guitars. Track List: Nona, Time Is Waiting For No One, Shine On Me Now, The Pace And The Flow, 4-Leaf Clover, Magical Pretence, Black Clouds, Lonesome Loneliness, Into The Fire, My Kind Of Woman, Love Goes With Anything. HARD is a Swedish-Hungarian hard rock group, formed in 2004 by some of the finest musicians of the Hungarian hard rock scene. After 2 critically acclaimed and award nominated albums in Hungary, the band decided to take a step forward and hit the international music territories with English lyrics. After several line up changes, their first international offering, "Traveller", Thanks to the album's leading single, "Stay", which was heavily rotated on the radio, the record soon became successful. The band has appeared in the biggest international hard rock & heavy metal magazines, such us Metal Hammer, Burrn!, Fireworks, Hardline, Powerplay, etc. Rave reviews were made from every corner of the planet, even from the USA. None other than famed record producer Beau Hill (of Winger/Ratt/Warrant fame) blew his mind when he first heard the album, so he immediately asked the guys to let him remix some of the tunes. They agreed, and the result was more than amazing. The band also made a highly successful guest appearance at the Z Rock Festival in the UK in May 2009, but right after that a brand new chapter began in the HARD history. In August 2009, the band announced that they have joined forces with acclaimed Swedish vocalist/guitarist/producer Björn Lodin of Baltimore. The band is now ready with the long awaited next CD, entitled "Time Is Waiting For No One", scheduled to release in Feb 27, 2010.   xx XYZ DUE FOR NEW COMPILATION: XYZ just re-signed with EMI/Capitol for one CD. It will be a compilation of the band's best songs plus a bonus track. XYZ will be doing some European shows this late spring and dates will be uploaded soon. A Get Well Wish to Ronnie James Dio by Terry Ilous. "I recently did a benefit for kids and was asked to sing a song, so I covered this one by Black Sabbath as a small token of my appreciation to the singer I truly love and respect. Ronnie is ill at the moment ,and this is just a thank you and Get Well wish, to the man that had inspired me, and many others. Get Well Ronnie!" WebLink: www.youtube.com/watch?v=23gVV23EuKs&feature=em. MELODIC ROCK FEST 2: MRF2 update tomorrow and full show and line-up details coming right up. A couple of last minute changes as per usual have slowed things down. February 8 announcement at the lastest!

 

 

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

LION MUSIC ARTIST UPDATE: The Latest Artist News & Release Information from Lion Music: Charly Sahona is best known as the guitarist in the modern French progressive metal band Venturia. Late 2008 saw Charly begin work on what has become his debut solo album entitled Naked Thoughts From A Silent Chaos set for release on February 19th 2010 on Lion Music. This 8 track release is built around heavy riffs, catchy vocal lines and crazy solos. Comparisons can be made if one was to fuse Dream Theater with Muse and 30 Seconds To Mars. This album offers a fresh sound, modern and direct, heavy and begs to be heard. Naked Thoughts From A Silent Chaos sees Charly Sahona not only perform all guitar and keyboard duties but also step up to the microphone for the first time. The rest of the trio of musicians are Venturia band mates Diego Rapacchietti (Drums) and Thomas James-Potrel (Bass) who have created an ultra powerful power trio format. This 8 song collection sees Charly Sahona show again his abilities as a talented multi-instrumentalist and as a songwriter as well. Lyrically, Naked Thoughts From A Silent Chaos is an introspection on the different reasons that pushes an artist to do everything in life to transcend their emotions, passions, fears, neurosis, libido and more into their art. It asks the questions of what pushes an artist to continue his unending quest of perfection. Sahona states, It's a kind of psychoanalysis. My main influences come from the things I experienced in my personal life during the last 2 years: All the energy, the money, the time you give and spend into music at the expense of the loss of many different beautiful things you could have lived. The song writing for the album commenced after the release of the Venturia "Hybrid" album in 2008. The recording began in Switzerland in May 2009 with final mixing taking place in September 2009." More recently a video for Relieved has been released and made available on YouTube (www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNTTSQUOwnE) and other media platforms with positive feedback. Naked Thoughts From A Silent Chaos delivers an exceptionally high quality with immense crossover appeal. Track Listing: 1. Relieved. 2. Raise the Shadow. 3. Away From Our Sins. 4. Forgotten Past. 5. River of Lies. 6. Living In A Dream Is Not Right. 7. It Will Fly Away. 8. All That Can't Be Said. Musicians: Charly Sahona: Guitars, Keyboards, Vocals; Diego Rapacchietti: Drums; Thomas James-Potrel: Bass. WebLinks: www.myspace.com/charlysahona / www.reverbnation.com/charlysahona.   xx Progressive rock band Mastermind is back with their first full length album of original music in almost a decade. Since their formation in New Jersey by brothers Bill and Rich Berends in 1986 the band have become synonymous with delivering original sounding progressive rock with diverse arrangements and room for a healthy dose of experimentation. Once again the instrumentation is strong, Bill Berends guitar transcends numerous genres and combines with the keyboard interplay of Jens Johansson for a musically interesting package. Insomnia is the band's seventh album and marks the album debut of vocalist Tracy McShane. The tracks have been built around McShane's powerful vocals and focus more on songs as opposed to over the top instrumental play of previous releases. As a result Insomnia is arguably the most accessible Mastermind album to date - yet a progression over the bands career can be heard continuing on Insomnia along with the elements considered to be Mastermind trademarks. Bill Berends comments, "I don't want to keep writing the same symphony over & over again, so this seventh effort features a different approach and a different diva than the previous work. Basically we want to try new things stylistically and make a good album that would reach beyond the boundaries of progressive rock in the traditional sense. We started to move in that direction with "Angels", so "Insomnia" is something of an extension of that thinking. People tend to judge you on your last work, but what they don't seem to realize is trying something new doesn't negate our entire history, it just adds to it. We released two tracks from "Insomnia" on our own as the "Broken" EP single in 2005 and they were extremely well received, but it took some time to find a label that could see the potential since we don't sound like everyone else. We had several offers, but nothing I thought would really be to our benefit until we connected with Lion Music.< br> Lyrically the album focuses on observations and reflections from everyday life experiences that might drive one to sleeplessness. Bill Berends continues, I lost a lot of sleep during the time spent making this album. The title came about after the recording was well under way, it just seemed appropriate. However, in another sense it is definitely a complete work that is best appreciated by listening to the entire album straight through. Certainly you can pick out individual songs to feature, and they do stand on their own, but I don't think you will "get it" until you hear the whole album in its entirety. In that respect it is a very big work, and perhaps that might be the 'progressive' element to it." Mastermind are a band happy to follow their own sound and have built a worldwide fan base which appreciates this outlook. Track Listing: 01. Desire (5:33) 02. Break Me Down (3:29) 03. One More Night (5:23) 04. Meltdown (4:13) 05. Piggy World (4:42) 06. No Answer (4:08) 07. Broken (4:22) 08. Night Flier (3:49) 09. Nietzsche (5:23) 10. Last Cigarette (9:16). Musicians: Bill Berends: Guitars, Synth, Bass, Vocals. Rich Berends: Drums Tracy McShane: Lead vocal. Jens Johansson: Keyboard & Piano. GUEST Musicians Chris Eike (ex-Handfarm): Bass Greg Hagen: Bass. WebLinks: www.mastermindband.com / www.myspace.com/mastermindband.   xx BLACK COUNTRY SET TO MAKE LATE 2010 DEBUT: Press Release / A new super group has been formed with Jason Bonham, Glenn Hughes, Joe Bonamassa and Derek Sherinian. They are calling themselves Black Country, taking their name from the industrial area in England from which Bonham and Hughes both hail. The band is currently in the studio with producer Kevin Shirley (Black Crowes, Journey, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin) cutting tracks for an upcoming album to be released in late 2010 or early 2011. With Bonham (Led Zeppelin, Foreigner) on drums, Sherinian (Dream Theater, Billy Idol, Alice Cooper) on keyboards, Hughes (Deep Purple, Trapeze) on bass and vocals and Bonamassa on guitar and vocals, the band already has six tracks cut. The next recording session will take place in March and the band hopes to finish recording in early April. Shirley made the announcement on his website: "So there it is folks - the cat is out the bag! This is Black Country. The songs are all original and what a lineup. They are all the very best players in the world, for my money!" Shirley added, "Jason Bonham is a totally unique drummer and a supreme, yet oh-so-tasty powerhouse. Derek Sherinian is super versatile, and is playing mostly overdriven Hammond organ in this ensemble and is the color on the palette. Glenn Hughes plays bass and sings with a range very, very few can even get close to, and Joe Bonamassa, perhaps the best Blues Rock guitarist around, plays hard riffing guitar as well as adding his signature vocals alongside Glenn. You'll just have to wait - we're planning to get this out late summer, and it's promising to be phenomenal!" Recently named "The Blues Rock Titan" by Guitar World Magazine, Bonamassa's new solo album, Black Rock, will be arriving March 23, 2010. Produced by Shirley, who has produced Bonamassa's last six solo albums, it will be released on Bonamassa's own J&R Adventures label. For more information: www.jasonbonham.net / www.glennhughes.com / www.dereksherinian.com / jbonamassa.com. ANOTHER TRIBUTE IN PLANNING: This summer, Versailles Records will return to retail with Hysteria: A Millennium Tribute to Def Leppard, featuring current/former members of Megadeth, Lizzy Borden, Lillian Axe, Britney Fox, L.A. Guns, Slash's Snakepit, Pretty Boy Floyd, Alice Cooper Band, Ratt, Warrant, Circle Jerks, Talisman, Alcatrazz, Britney Fox, Waysted, Doro, as well as millennium rockers including Richard Kendrick, A.J. Caruso, Straitjacket Smile, Lee Thompson, Marko Pukkila, Jasy Andrews, Katet, Chuck Bonnett III, Chris Heaven, Steve Cone, Chris Catena, Daniel Flores, Barry Shelton, and the Deadly Romantics. The release will also include a free second CD, the Road Trip Rock' Bonus sampler. A SECOND MOUNTAIN OF POWER FROM JANNE: In February, the second of Overdrive/Constancia/Locomotive Breath guitarist Janne Stark's tributes to the seventies under the moniker Mountain Of Power will be released on Grooveyard Records. Vol 1 was released in 2006 and featured covers of bands like Budgie, Moxy, Point Blank, Stray Dog, Captain Beyond, Goddo etc., featuring Swedish guests only. On the second album, simply entitled Volume Two, Stark has widened the guest invitations quite a bit, both in rank and nationality. The drums are for the most part handled by TrumPeter Svensson (Faith/Constancia). Stark comments: "It is indeed a nice list of guests on this album, where you'll find Europe's John Norum showing his love for Frank Marino in a guitar-overdriven cover of 'Talkin' Bout A Feeling', Point Blank's Rusty Burns helping pay tribute to the late Jakson Spires in a cover of Blackfoot's 'I Stand Alone' and Rufus Huff boys Greg Martin and Jarrod England help make a really hot cover of Trapeze's 'Monkey', a tribute to the late Mel Galley. I really wanted for each song to get the perfect musical ingredients and I did my best to try and find singers and fellow guitarists that would match the sounds I was looking for. I must say I'm extremely happy with the result. On this one I took care of all rhythm guitars and bass myself, besides soloing here and there of course." The album was mixed by Pelle Saether and mastered by Ty Tabor (KING'S X). Tracklist: 'Urban Guerilla' (Sammy Hagar) featuring Cindy Weichman (Nail/Helix), Joe Romagnola (Character), Jay Jesse Johnson 'Checking It Out'/'Sister Madness' (OZZ) featuring Paul Shortino 'Makin' Magic'/'Makes No Difference' (Pat Travers) featuring Mikael Nord Andersson, Jay Jesse Johnson 'Reasons Love'/'This Kids' (UFO) featuring Martin J Andersen (Blinstone), Sven Cirnski (Bad Habit/Truth) 'Talkin' 'Bout A Feeling' (Mahogany Rush) featuring John Norum, Martin J Andersen, Thomas Juneor Andersson 'Monkey' (Trapeze) Featuring Jarrod England And Greg Martin (Rufus Huff) 'Bedroom Thang' (ZZ Top) Featuring Clas Yngström (Sky High), Mikael Nord Andersson 'Deadly Weapon' (Trigger) featuring Martin J Andersen 'Struck Down'/'25 Hours A Day' (Y&T) featuring Mikael Nord Andersen, Joe Romagnola, James Collins (POD) 'Money' (Leslie West Band) featuring Kjell Bergendahl (Thalamus), James Collins 'Bad Penny'/'Keychain' (Rory Gallagher) Featuring Conny Bloom (Electric Boys), Pontus Snibb (Bonafide), Mikael Nord Andersson 'Waves' (Resurrection Band) featuring Ty Tabor (King's X), Christian Liljegren (Audiovision, Ex-Narnia), James Collins, Maria Rådsten (One More Time) 'Indian Dawn'/(Hellcat) (Electric Sun/Scorpions) Featuring David Fremberg (Andromeda/Constancia), Sven Cirnski, Thomas Larsson 'I Stand Alone' (Blackfoot) Featuring Mattias Osbäck (Locomotive Breath), Per Karlsson (Overdrive), Rusty Burns (Point Blank), Craig Erickson, Tommy Denander Stark continues: "My aim is to do covers of bands I grew up with and was inspired by, plus I'm going for songs that have rarely or never been covered before. There are also some dedications to people I had the pleasure of being in touch with or meet. One being Mel Galley, whom I contacted asking if he was ok with me doing a cover of a Trapeze track. He was all for it and suggested I'd do "Monkey". We mailed a bit back and forth and shortly after he went public with his terminal cancer. I originally wanted Glenn Hughes to sing it, but it fell through for various reasons and instead Jarrod England from Rufus Huff did it amazingly!" News and some tasters from the forthcoming album will soon be found on www.myspace.com/mountainofpower. The CD, can be ordered directly from Grooveyard Records: www.grooveyardrecords.com. In Sweden it will be distributed through CMS Records.   BJ DELIVERS MILLION UPDATE: Time for some exciting new M.ill.ion info, courtesy of BJ Laneby: - Metal Heaven have picked up the option for the next album and the European release will be done by them. - Songwriting have been going really well, the new line up with Angelo Modafferi on keys and Andreas Grövle on guitar rocks big time! The energy and genuine bandvibe is there and it´s smiles all around. We´re all very excited and intend to deliver one mother of an album! - The new album will be recorded in sections during the spring. -The first recordings will start in February. - Here are some early songtitles for Ya: "Test Of Time", "Everyday Hero", "Sane And Insanity" and "I Raise My Glass". Expect more M.ill.ion news soon... WebLink: www.myspace.com/millionized.

 

 

Monday, January 25, 2010

IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO SCORPIONS FANS: Press Release from the Scorpions: "It was always our pleasure, our purpose in life, our passion and we were fortunate enough to make music for you - whether it was live on stage or in the studio, creating new songs. While we were working on our album these past few months, we could literally feel how powerful and creative our work was – and how much fun we were still having, in the process. But there was also something else: We want to end the Scorpion's extraordinary career on a high note. We are extremely grateful for the fact that we still have the same passion for music we've always had since the beginning. This is why, especially now, we agree we have reached the end of the road. We finish our career with an album we consider to be one of the best we have ever recorded and with a tour that will start in our home country Germany and take us to five different continents over the next few years. We want you, our fans, to be the first to know about this. Thank you for your never-ending support throughout the years! We uploaded the very first snippets from our new album for you. And now… let's get the party started and get ready for a "Sting in the Tail"! See you on the world tour, Yours...Scorpions." New Album: Sting In The Tail Release: March 19. Listen to the Snippets of Raised On Rock and The Good Die Young at: www.the-scorpions.com/english.   ROCKAHOLICS RECORDS ARTIST UPDATES: Darkology, the Texas-based band featuring guitarist Michael Harris (Vitalij Kuprij), drummer Brian Harris (ex-Firewind), bassist Mike Neal and vocalist Kelly "Sundown" Carpenter (Beyond Twilight, Outworld), has launched a new interactive website at: www.darkology.com. In addition, their debut album, "Altered Reflections" which was released by Rockaholics Records and only received a limited release in Greece, the UK and through select online merchants, on November the 16th of this past year, will be getting a proper release initially in Germany and Online, on February the 5th and then Worldwide on February the 26th, with a native Japanese release pending. "Altered Reflections" has so far been receiving rave reviews from all the media it has been featured in, scoring consistently high marks and even managed a second (GR) and a fourth placement (DE) in the respective European editions of Rock Hard Magazine's Soundcheck sections among some 30 other albums! Some reporter went even as far as claiming it to be "probably the best prog/power album of the last decade" and quite a few others included it in their end of the year top lists, even if it wasn't properly released until now. The band is currently practicing in anticipation of some festival appearances and a possible tour, in late spring and is also in a loose writing mode for a follow up album later on. More info @ www.darkology.com and www.myspace.com/darkologymetal.   xx Arch Rival, the Dayton, OH quartet, led by charismatic guitarist Michael Harris (Darkology, Leather, Chastain) and also featuring the talents of Steve Snyder (vocals), Gary Rigmaiden (Bass) and Greg Martin (Drums) who had their debut album remastered and re-released with the addition of a previously unseen hour long DVD as a bonus , through Rockaholics Records, late last year, which was however, only release in Greece, the UK and through select online merchants, will have the album properly released initially online, on February the 5th and then Worldwide on February the 26th with the exception of Germany where an FSK rating has not yet been procured for the DVD portion – meaning that the product will actually launch again – later on this year, along with another release that Rockaholics Records is planning. More info @ www.archrivalband.com and www.myspace.com/archrivalofficial.   xx ELECTRIC BOYS BACK IN 2010: New Electric Boys due in 2010. From the band's website: "Ok! So we got together for the first time in what, 17 years?? These are the first tracks that we demoed at our friend Damon's place, Future Legends Studios. It's a sample of SOME of the stuff on the album. The rest will contain stuff that both sounds familiar but also stuff that doesn't. We're in the studio now, recording as we speak, and we are all very exited!! Album's out in March. Until then, enjoy this little teaser and keep checking back for more news!" A 1:40 clip of samples has been posted to YouTube. Check out at: www.electricboys.com/website. FRONTIERS NEW YOUTUBE: The latest Frontiers Records promo clip can be viewed here:   VAN HALEN: LIVE FROM THE MOLSON AMPHITHEATRE 1995: There is a listing in various online retailers in Europe for a new Van Halen DVD - Live From The Molson Amphitheatre 1995. But I fear that it might not be an official release at all, therefore any orders placed should be done with retailers that will refund should the title be removed from sale. It is a killer show....an official release would be brilliant, but with the band's current line-up concentrating on the DLR era, it seems this is not an official Warner release. The DVD is of the band's much acclaimed 1995 Toronto performance with Sammy Hagar in the closing stages of the Balance tour. The show was broadcast on TV in Canada at the time and has been heavily traded ever since. Tracklist: 1. Right Now 2. Big Fat Money 3. Top Of The World 4. Not Enough 5. Amsterdam 6. Mine All Mine 7. Drum Solo 8. Can't Stop Lovin' You 9. Feelin' 10. Eagle Fly 11. Guitar Solo 12. Why Can't This Be Love 13. Dreams 14. Poundcake 15. Don't Tell Me (What Love Can Do) 16. Panama.   STOCKHOLM READY TO ROCK OUT: A new rock festival is coming to Sweden May 1 (the very same date as MelodicRockFest 2 in Chicago). The press release reads: "After a long winter it's time to burn considerably on Walpurgis Eve and May Day with ROCK! To this two-day festival, you don't need to worry of bad weather or campsite! Under roof, near the metro and buses located in Alvik you will find the "old printing company" where Stockholm Rock Out is held for the first time on April 30 and May 1. In addition to great bands, there will be bars, shops, tattoo artists and more. Stockholm Rock Out is an initiative by Chris Lemon from Badmouth. NOTE! For all international artists this show will be exclusive for Scandinavia. Confirmed bands: Jani Lane, Keel, Steelheart, Dizzy Reed of Guns n Roses, Pretty boy Floyd, BulletBoys, Vains of Jenna, Chris Laney, Badmouth, Dynazty. More info: www.sthlmrockout.com. BACK TO WORK...BUT...: Hi folks, time to get back to work here, but there remains a few lingering holiday dates for the Australian summer (which has been great!). So another update tomorrow and perhaps Wednesday, then another Friday. Next week we'll be back to 5 updates a week as normal. MelodicRockFest 2 line-up almost done. Announcement February 1 as planned and tickets on sale shortly thereafter! Tons of Reviews to do and the 2009 MelRock Awards....and about 600 e-mails to reply to!

 

 

Saturday, January 23, 2010

A COUP FOR TREAT FANS IN MARCH: Frontiers Records to release Treat brand new reunion album Coup De Grace on March 19 in Europe and April 6 in the USA. Twenty-five years after the release of their sensational debut album "Scratch and Bite" and eighteen year since their last self-titled studio album saw the light of day, Swedish melodic rock legends Treat are out to get you on the run again! "Coup de Grace" is the album that every melodic rock fan hoped for but never dared to dream of: a classic rock masterpiece with thunderous guitars, powerful yet seductive melodies and hook-laden songs, all wrapped up in a production that combines the best of "now" and "then". "It´s been twenty-five years in the making", says guitarist and main songwriter Anders Wikström. "Since day one I knew we had this album in us. The ideas were there. The vision. But it took us this long to find the right tools to make it all come true. It took five albums, millions of miles on the road, a thirteen year long break and a whole new perspective on life to get it right. In hindsight it now seems that everything we´ve done since we formed the band has been pointing in one direction. Of course we didn´t know it back then, but this is what we aimed for all along", says Anders. So here we are, in 2010 Treat is releasing their sixth album, not counting the best of "Weapons of Choice", released when the band reformed in 2006. "Coup de Grace" is a collection of songs that is so much more than just kick-ass-sing-along-rock´n´roll-songs. They are more a sort of mini autobiographies from five grown men reflecting on life. Back then, in the 80´s, it was rock´n´roll twenty-four-seven: big guitars, big choruses, big hair, babes and booze. "This album is a statement of who we are today", explains Anders Wikström. "We're older… yeah, perhaps even wiser. We look at our lives and the world around us in a different way. I wanted to reflect that in our lyrics. I mean, we're all fathers and we raise our kids in a world that's in a turmoil. There's a lot of pressures, fears and tough expectations. The rat race is spinning out of control, but everybody expect you to be happy. The big guitars are still there and became even bigger. The big choruses. The big sound. The hair… yeah, well, you know: they're in the mid forties. Booze? Nah. Babes? Yeah. Their wives and girlfriends. The mothers of their kids. But there's as new "big" in the Treat equation: the courage to let their fears, worries and views on both politics and the modern life that wears us all down reflect in the lyrics. It was the natural thing to do. I mean, life is so much more than rock´n´roll all night and party every day", says Wikström. But make no mistakes: Treat is a rock´n´roll brigade. A force of nature. Today even stronger and more powerful than ever. From the opening somewhat haunting prelude, that sets the tone of the album, the right-in-your face rock´n´roll grenade The war is over, the soul searching Paper tiger to the trademark power ballad A life to die for and Roar, where the band manages to make an epic with a hit feeling, Treat is telling all the world that they're back. Bigger, better and bolder. "We got back together in 2006 because we all missed playing together. We released a compilation album and did a tour, but we weren't sure what to do next. In 2008 we all felt that we had an album to do", continues Wikström. "I started demoing songs and in May 2009 we were ready to hit the studio." Produced and recorded in Stockholm, Sweden by Anders Wikström, partly together with keyboard player Patrick Appelgren, "Coup de Grace", is an album that's going to stand out in a musical climate where mediocrity and superficiality are an asset but where talent, musicianship and dedication is not required to make the charts. "Coup de Grace" includes the following tracks: Prelude – Coup de Grace; The War Is Over; All In, Paper Tiger; Roar; A Life To Die For; Tangled Up; Skies of Mongolia; Heaven Can Wait; I'm Not Runnin'; No Way Without You; We Own The Night; All For Love; Breathless. "This is our footprint in the history of rock´n´roll", concludes Anders Wikström. "We can proudly say that this is the album we would like to show our grandkids!" Treat is Anders Bikström (guitars and backing vocals), Robert Ernlund (lead vocals), Jamie Borger (drums), Nalle Påhlsson (bass and backing vocals) and Patrick Appelgren (keyboards/guitar and backing vocals). Weblinks: www.myspace.com/thebandtreat / www.frontiers.it / www.myspace.com/frontiersrecords.   xx

 

 

Thursday, January 14, 2010

 

 

Monday, January 11, 2010

NEWMAN SET TO RETURN WITH THE ART OF BALANCE: One of the UK's top melodic rock acts Newman, will return with their eighth album in March. Entitled The Art Of Balance the album will be released through the Chrome Dome label and will include the following tracks: Hero To Zero, Edge Of The World, Endless, The Miracle, Stay With Me, Tumble Down, Wish You Well, Find My Heart, Your Surrender, Break It Again, Forever, and Stronger.   For the past 11 years, since the 1998 debut, Newman have continued to release consistently high quality albums and gained a reputation for producing hard rockin' melodic anthems. They also proved to be a live force to be reckoned with when they returned to the stage in 2009 playing the Z Rock Festival and supporting the legendary John Waite on his recent UK Tour. This album should appeal to existing and new fans alike. Once again, the emphasis is on big guitars, massive hooks, and "The Art Of Balance" has this in abundance. The songs "Edge Of The World" and "Endless" are already receiving extensive airplay on the "Steve Price Show" over at ARfm - www.arfm.co.uk. The album was once again recorded at The Blue Room and produced by Steve Newman. The Art Of Balance will be available from all the usual online distributors and pre-order from the official Newman website. Check out www.newmansound.com for further details.   FOREIGNER MEETS JOURNEY: Both Foreigner and Journey collectively have sold well over 130 million albums worldwide, including several top ten hits around the world. After recently completing an arena tour supporting Journey with John Parr, Yorkshire based guitarist John Oxley was keen to replicate the magic of Journey again on stage, together with bass player Paul Flanaghan who's musical collaboration of over 20 years was destined to continue as both felt strongly that the musical mix of these two great bands would be a perfect combination. Some 12 months on and following the bands debut sell out show on the 10th January 09, the band aptly named A Foreigners Journey have played over 50 shows throughout the UK and also performed at the Rhodes Rock 09' festival in Greece. In August 2009 the band joined forces with award winning singer/songwriter Jimi Anderson whose vocals and stage presence are guaranteed to captivate you. Saxophone player Chris Backhouse completes this new and exciting line-up, taking this dual tribute show of Foreigner and Journey to another level. The band will be touring extensively throughout the UK in 2010 and with the bands inclusion on next years Rhodes Rock 2010 bill, A Foreigners Journey's foundations seem to be firmly set alongside some of Europe's most established and respected tribute bands around today. 2010 UK Tour Dates: 15.01.10 The Diamond Club Sutton in Ashfield 29.01.10 Yardbirds Grimsby 06.02.10 Birdwell Venue Barnsley 20.02.10 The 12 bar Swindon 27.02.10 Wulfrun Hall Wolverhampton 06.03.10 Queens Hotel Stoke on Trent 13.03.10 Queens Hall Nuneaton 26.03.10 Moses Gate Bolton 27.03.10 Rawmarsh Cricket Club Rotherham 03.04.10 Roadhouse Birmingham 10.04.10 Hotel California Birkenhead 23.04.09 The Standard Walthamstow, London WebSite: www.aforeignersjourney.com / www.myspace.com/aforeignersjourney.   VACATION TIME: As announced earlier, I had some vacation time planned. I'm taking liberties here and changing that at the last minute, so begin 2 weeks leave as of today! I've re-tweaked my back and need to get that fixed again, so what better way to spend some time off! I had planned another week off, but it seems to make more sense to take them together and get some great family time in while the sun is blazing. Sorry to all in the Northern Hemisphere - looks cool where you are :) I'll be about working on MelodicRockFest plans - the line-up is beginning to look legendary. Couldn't be happier with it, even if two of those names are yet to confirm 100%. Once they are, it will be announcement time. Stay tuned... If anything major happens in the next week or two, I'll cover it, but regular daily site updates resume Monday January 25. Thanks for understanding.

 

 

Friday, January 08, 2010

It's been a while, but two new interviews online for you today - W.E.T. and Outloud. Read both by clicking on the Album Covers below.   xx STAGE DOLLS AND SHYLOCK FOR FEBRUARY: Details of AOR Heaven/Metal Heaven's February releases Stage Dolls and Shylock are below. The release date for the new FM record had to be re-scheduled and now is due for a release in March 2010. Stage Dolls - Always (European Territory) - 26th of February is the date that everybody with an interest in rock music should make a note of, as this is the day when Stage Dolls – one of Norway's best bands through more than a quarter of a century – are releasing their seventh studio album. The title "Always" underlines that this is a band you always can trust. And simultaneously with the release, the band can mark the 25th anniversary of their debut album, "Soldier's Gun". Life on the road has been almost endless for Stage Dolls since - especially in Norway, but between concerts the boys have found the time to visit Nidaros Studio – where they made their earlier records – and the result is their new, in total 7th studio album, "Always". Torstein Flakne co-produced it with Ronny Wikmark, who also mixed it with Stage Dolls' former producer, Bjørn Nessjø. The American back-up singers from their success album "Stage Dolls" are also featured, so everything suggests a classic Stage Dolls album. Stage Dolls are: Torstein Flakne (guitar, vocals); Terje Storli (bass); Morten Skogstad (drums). Tracklist: 01.Always, 02.Raining On A Sunny Day, 03.Rollin', 04.Highway's Open, 05.Eye Of My Heart, 06.Better Off Pretty, 07.Taillights, 08.Saturday Night, 09.Where The Blacktop Ends, 10.My Strangest Friend. Soundfiles in advance: Always - Better Off Pretty - Highway's Open WebLink: www.stagedolls.com.   xx Shylock - RockBuster - The story of a decade...and Shylock are back with their new album called "RockBuster". The first step into business was done back in 2000 when Shylock was featured on the German Rock Hard sampler "Unerhört" with the debut song "Can't Let U Go". Just a few months later they finally found a label partner and released their self-titled album. The second release was called "Pyronized", and the four-piece drew their attention to the audience due to the quality of songs and numerous tour and live activities with bands such as Bonfire, Axxis, Shakra, Roger Chapmann, U.D.O., Primal Fear, Doro, etc. "Welcome To Illusion" is the title of their third album. Rami Ali, well known drummer of Frontline/ Evidence One and State Of Rock, contributed all drum tracks at the studio. This production was released in Europe, Russia and finally in Brasil. Besides the impressive sound, "Welcome To Illusion" turned out to be three times 'album of the month' in different online and print magazines. Later, back in November 2004, Shylock released the song "Farewell" on MTM Music's 10th anniversary sampler. This song was exclusively written for world known soccer star Thomas "Icke" Hässler. Thomas invited the band to perform his song at his farewell game at Cologne RheinEnergieStadion. About 20.000 people watched the gig live in the stadium and over 1.000.000 people even watched the event at TV. During the song-writing and pre-production session for "Devotion", Shylock performed some more shows, e.g. at Bayern 3 radio's Badetour with Right Said Fred, Adler's Appetite (Ex Guns 'n' Roses), and they supported Bonfire on their "Double X" tour in Germany and Spain. Right after the release of "Devotion" the band started with the production for the fifth album called "RockBuster". With Ondrej Hurbanic, they finally found a suitable producer to give the songs power and a quite modern sound. "Rockbuster" contains 11 powerful songs and a fabulous cover version of Timex Social Club's world-wide known track "Rumours". In December, 2009 Shylock released a new song on the fan CD of German's soccer club „1. FC Nürnberg". Tracklist: 01.Damn Good, 02.Dawn, 03.Rumours, 04.Sunshine vs. Rain, 05.Just For U, 06.Much, 07.Rose Of Cairo, 08.Strong, 09.Somebody Else, 10.The Moment, 11.We Are, 12.Wrong Planet Shylock sind: Matthias Schenk – Vocals, Johannes Amrhein – Guitars, Michael Bayer – Guitars, Achim Thiergärtner - Drums. Soundfiles in advance: Damn Good - Just For You - Rumours WebLink: www.shylockmusic.de.   xx NEW H.E.A.T. ON ITS WAY: Great news from H.E.A.T. New material is not far away! Direct from the band: "Here is a preview of the artwork for our next EP that will be available as a digipack. The EP will be sent out to all subscribers of Sweden Rock Magazine. A small amount will also be sold together with the copies available in Swedish stores. Sweden Rock Magazine #68 will be available from February 2nd. The EP consists of 3 tracks, the new single "Beg, Beg, Beg", and 2 bonus tracks that won't be available of the pressing of the Scandinavian version of our forthcoming album, the hard rock anthem "Tonight" and the mysterious "Living in a Memory". If you want to be sure to get hold of a copy you can sign up for a subscription of the biggest hard rock magazine in Scandinavia by following this link (www.swedenrockmagazine.com/index.cfm?pg=6).   TARA'S SECRET HAVE A HEAD FOR HEIGHTS: UK rockers Tara's Secret are back with their 3rd studio album Vertigo. Released on 30th October 2009 it is a hard rocking album showing that the band have raised the bar since their 2006 release "Tomorrow the World" Singer Johnny Trowbridge, guitarists Richie Beardsley & Craig Chapman have been joined by Dave Deaville on bass and JT Thomas on drums to produce an album with swagger and style. Recorded at M2 Studios by Mark Stuart and Sheena Seer, the band have retained their reputation for strong anthemic songs and combined them with a harder hitting production and sound. They are joined by guest vocalists Sue Willetts from Dante Fox, on the ballad "The Last 2 Know" and by Adrian Marx of Bon Giovi on the uptempo party rocker "Shake What Your Mamma Gave Ya!" Vertigo will be officially launched and on sale, at the band's double headliner show with Dante Fox at Yardbirds Club, Grimsby on 30th October and copies can be ordered directly from www.taras-secret.com for only £12 (inc P&P) with £2.00 from each copy sold going to the Breakthrough Breast Cancer charity. Vertigo will also be available from most hard rock CD outlets. The band will sign all copies bought online during the first 6 months. Johnny Trowbridge had this to say about the CD. "Back in 2006 I said that this album would kick "Tomorrow The World's" ass and it does. We locked ourselves away and wrote so many great songs, many of which we left out so we could produce a real in-ya-face album. Sue & Ade have been absolute stars and sang their hearts out for us and we look forward to playing these songs live through the coming year. Finally the wait is over and we are looking forward to getting feedback from the fans. Already several rock writers have championed this album and we thank them for it. We'd also like to thank everyone who has sent us their much appreciated encouragement during the writing and recording of this album." Track listing - 1. Rock n Roll Beauty Queen 2. She's My Baby 3. Natural High (Rain of Love) 4. The Last 2 Know 5. Promises 6. Vertigo 7. One More Chance 8. My Reward 9. Shake What Your Mamma Gave Ya 10. Homeland.... plus bonus tracks GTBR and Wildest Dreams. Check out the album's tracks via a new CD Showcase online as of today.   KEVIN LEE & THE KINGS RELEASE DUSK TILL DAWN FEBRUARY 16: Midwestern guitar pop aficionado Kevin Lee and his band The Kings will release a six-song EP entitled Dusk Till Dawn on February 16, 2010 to an eager worldwide following. Fans of powerful, hook-filled rock and roll will be familiar with Lee from his major-label years with his former band, The Lonesome City Kings, on the MCA imprint. Since then, Lee has put out a series of well-received albums chock full of Lee's trademark songwriting approach, which is all about big hooks, chunky guitars, and melodies that can't be forgotten. Dusk Till Dawn continues on this path, with six brand-new tunes that are certain to keep Lee fans clamoring for more. Rockers like "The Other Side" and the radio-ready ballad "Invisible" show that Lee hasn't lost a step in the songwriting game and, if anything, demonstrate that he has improved his craft in recent years. Not everything on Dusk Till Dawn is business as usual, however, with the biggest departure from past records is Lee's use of his road band (bassist Dann Morr, drummer Erik Strommer, and keyboardist Peter Spero) to back him up in the studio rather than the cadre of Chicago session all-stars who Lee has chosen in the past. This gives the songs here a more live feel, the kind that can only come from musicians who have lived with the songs they are recording. Produced by Rick Barnes, whose client list includes The Smashing Pumpkins, George Clinton, and Lucky Boys Confusion, the EP is less about studio magic and more about gutsy, catchy rock songs that capture and keep listeners. The music here will draw the inevitable comparisons to Lenny Kravitz and Cheap Trick, but Lee found his own sound early on and is always much more than the sum of his influences. Lee fans will also want to be on the lookout for a video for "The Other Side" sometime in 2010. To purchase Dusk Till Dawn, visit www.cdbaby.com/cd/KevinLeeTheKings.   MELODIC BRIEFS: Kimmo Blom (vocalist from Urban Tale) dropped me a line to update everyone with news of his new forthcoming album with his new band BoB! Check them out at: www.myspace.com/boysoftheband / www.boysoftheband.com. Chris Cornell has dropped a bombshell revealing that Soundgarden will reunite after a 12 year hiatus. Soon after Soundgarden's website was up and running with the following message: 'The 12 year break is over and school is back in session….' Updates at: www.soundgardenworld.com. www.cdinzane.com Minneapolis and our AFM Records Germany partner are proud to present the new Jon Oliva's Pain-Festival as a worldwide preorder RIGHT NOW! Pre-order this new title by visiting www.cdinzane.com and place your order to ship February 19th, 2010. MP3 clips of the new Jon Oliva's Pain are also available online at www.cdinzane.com for your listen. Contact (763) 391-9344 with any questions you may have on this release. www.cdinzane.com is a large import retailer that ships worldwide.   ROCK PAPAS DISTRIBUTE SACRED HEART: RockPapas will handle distribution for the new fantastic release from the English melodic Rock Band Sacred Heart. Following on from Sacred Heart's 2007 album Shake, Darkness Falls mixes hard rock, pop/rock and power ballads. Lay It On The Line (2004) put Sacred Heart on the map and opened doors for the band on the live stage. Although the collection of 10 tracks were recorded as a demo (to show there was more to the guys than just 3 or 4 songs) it lead to live shows with: The Quireboys, Saxon, Kee Marcello (Europe), Mitch Malloy, Toby Jepson (Little Angels/Gun) and many others. High profile dates in support of Shake with Thunder, Dokken, House Of Lords, Asia, Bonfire & more, plus many excellent reviews, lead us on to today - and the new album Darkness Falls. Recorded with Alex Burke of Audio-Republik, it features 13 studio tracks (4 of which are professional versions of songs from Lay It On The Line) and also includes 4 bonus demos (CD version only). Although the bass on the album was recorded by Nathan J. Lark, Sacred Heart have a new line up: Paul Stead - lead vocals & guitar, Mark Stephenson - guitars & backing vocals, Dave Thurlby - drums & Darren Jhuboo - bass & backing vocals. WebLinks: sacredheartband.com / myspace.com/sacredheartshakes / youtube.com/sacredheartband. The Album is available now on www.rockpapas.de.   AGE OF EVIL TO SUPPORT FIRST-EVER U.S. SHOWS BY METAL SUPERGROUP, HAIL!: The fast-rising heavy metal band, Age of Evil, will be supporting the first-ever U.S. shows for Hail - which is comprised of such renowned names as Tim "Ripper" Owens (singer, Judas Priest), Andreas Kisser (guitarist, Sepultura), Dave Ellefson (bass, F5), and Mike Portnoy (drums, Dream Theater). The shows will take place at B.B. Kings in New York City on Tuesday, January 26, 2010, and at Showcase Live in Foxborough, MA (just outside Boston) on Wednesday, January 27, 2010. "We will tear your faces off," declares AOE guitarist Jordan Ziff about the group's kick-ass live show. "And if not, it's a money back guarantee. Just kidding. But we give 150% every night we play. We are trying to rejuvenate good music into the metal scene and a certain rawness that everyone has seemed to have lost. You need to put your soul into your music." The Scottsdale, Arizona-based Age of Evil, which in addition to Ziff, is comprised of singer/rhythm guitarist Jeremy Goldberg, bassist Jacob Goldberg, and drummer Garrett Ziff, is riding high on wide spread acclaim for their recent release, the six-track EP, 'Get Dead.' "Thanks to young Arizona rockers Age of Evil, the sounds of vintage metal are alive and well as we kick off the second decade of the 21st Century," raves Andy Secher, Editor for Hit Parader Magazine. And if that wasn't enough acclaim, "Metal" Tim Henderson from BraveWords.com adds, "Youth Gone Wild! These school-yard bruisers are turning heads and taking vintage thrash to a new era of combat." Additionally, Revolver Magazine picked Age of Evil as a 'Band to Watch" in 2010, and 'Get Dead' was recently deemed a "New & Noteworthy Release" for four weeks straight on iTunes. Quickly building up a solid following thanks to shows throughout the world - including European dates this past summer with the likes of Jon Oliva's Pain, Soulfly, Arch Enemy, and Manowar - the upcoming dates with Hail! will truly be a headbanger's delight. Judging from their rapid ascension, catch these young lads in an intimate setting while you still can! Confirmed headlining date: Joe's Grotto in Scottsdale, Arizona on Friday, January 22nd, 2010. Confirmed dates supporting Hail!: B.B. Kings in New York City on Tuesday, January 26th, 2010. Showcase Live in Foxborough, MA (just outside Boston) on Wednesday, January 27th, 2010. For more information, visit: www.ageofevil.com / www.myspace.com/ageofevil. PHIL VARONE'S SEXY STAND UP SHOW: Phil Varone announces line-up for his next Sex, Stand up, and Rock & Roll Show at the Hollywood Improv Tuesday, January 19, 2010. Phil Varone's Sex, Stand Up, and Rock & Roll Show is unique as it offers a combination of music, sex and edge-of-your-seat comedy all in one show. Phil has disclosed the comedians performing on January 19 will be: Iliza Shlesinger, the first female and also the youngest winner of NBC's Last Comic Standing in the series' sixth season; Adam Hunter, finalist on NBC's Last Comic Standing sixth season; and Dante, finalist on NBC's Last Comic Standing fifth season. Additionally, Kirk Zipfel will delight the crowd with his musical comedy and Dilana, 2 place finalist on NBC's Rock Star Supernova second season will be rocking the house as Phil's musical guest. "I'll be backing Dilana on drums during her set," states Phil Varone. Phil Varone is an accomplished drummer, music producer and songwriter best known for his work with the rock bands Saigon Kick and Skid Row. After leaving the music business in 2004, Phil pursued his passion for comedy and performing by creating and hosting the now wildly popular Sex, Stand Up, and Rock & Roll Show. The show opens with an amazing musical guest followed by "A" list comedians and performers. In between the comedians, Phil brings adult stars up to the stage, he plays adult games with the crowd and he raffles off legendary gift bags full of merchandise provided by the following sponsors: Sextoy.com, Artifact Tattoo, I LoveVagina.com, BeaverBloomers.com, Handsome Devil Clothing, Beautiful Disaster Clothing, and Rock-n-Roll GangStar Apparel. "Come down and be part of the show!" Phil enthusiastically encourages. "The audience is part of the show and everyone has a chance to win one of our infamous gift bags. I guarantee you'll go home with a smile on your face and some naughty ideas in your head!" Rock stars, porn stars, comedians, gift bags and special surprises; you never know who will walk into this must-see show! Phil Varone's Sex, Stand Up, and Rock & Roll Show starts at 8:00 PM Tuesday, January 19, 2010, at the Hollywood Improv, 8162 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90046, (323) 651-2583, www.improv.com. 18-and-over, $15.00 admission. Come early for dinner and get preferred seating. For more information, please go to www.PhilVarone.com. MR-X UPDATED: MR-X has been updated with the following new features: - Various Artists - Now And Then Records, Sampler Vol 2. - Hold The Dream - Feature Album - Wildside - Under The Influence - Feature Album - Ralph Van Manen - Face The Feeling MR-X Membership Details. MELODIC ROCK FEST UPDATE: MelodicRockFest 2 plans are really gathering pace, but still a few more things to iron out before an official announcement. The show date remains on track for the April 30-May 1 weekend in Chicago. Plans at this stage are to have the show fully announced by February 1 and tickets on sale shortly thereafter.

 

 

Wednesday, January 06, 2010

BLAZE'S PROMISE OF TERROR: Blaze Bayley's second studio album 'Promise and Terror' will be released on the band's own label - Blaze Bayley Recordings - on 1 February 2010 and distributed by Plastic Head. 'Promise and Terror' is available to pre-order from the band's website only until 18 January 2010 with all pre-orders signed by the band. The accompanying World Tour kicks off at JB's in Dudley, UK on February 6. European & South American tour dates have now been confirmed and further dates and countries will be announced shortly. On 25 September 2009 the book 'At The End Of The Day' written by the band's drummer, Lawrence Paterson, was released. This follows the story of 'Blaze' Bayley Cooke from Wolfsbane to Iron Maiden to BLAZE and, ultimately, to the current self-titled Blaze Bayley band. The first run of 500 copies of the book has now sold out but there are plans to reprint the book later in the year. The double live album 'The Night That Will Not Die', recorded at Z7, Switzerland, was released in the summer of 2009; all audio mixed and mastered by producer Jase Edwards. WebLink: www.blazebayley.net.   TED PILOT STEPS DOWN AS FIFTH ANGEL VOCALIST, BAND CONTINUES ON: Singer Ted Pilot will not be fronting Seattle metal band Fifth Angel when the group makes its live debut in April, at the Keep it True Festival, in Germany. The vocalist, renowned for his work on Fifth Angel's self-titled debut, Fifth Angel in 1986 and its second album, Time Will Tell in 1989, tried to balance time between personal commitments and the Fifth Angel project and ultimately, the demands on Pilot's time were too great. The time constraints Ted faces with other ventures just didn't allow him to take part in Fifth Angel's reunion like we all hoped, said Ed Archer, Fifth Angel guitarist. He really wanted to do this, but given his schedule, it's just not feasible. We're disappointed, but respect and appreciate his position. This was an amicable parting, Archer added. Ted understands our desire to move forward as Fifth Angel and we're all still friends. Everyone is at peace with his decision. Pilot's decision was not unexpected. The band has been in contact with another singer throughout the past few months, in anticipation that Pilot would not be able to perform. We've got another singer in mind that we feel is worthy of filling Ted's shoes, Archer explained. We don't want to announce who it is just yet, but we will as our plans firm up, in advance of the Keep it True Festival later this year. Fifth Angel is working on its third album, slated for release in late 2010. For more on the band, visit www.fifthangel.com and www.fifthangel.net. CHEAP TRICK'S GUITAR LEGEND RICK NIELSEN TALKS: Greek-based Rockpages Web Magazine did an exclusive interview with Cheap Trick's guitarist Rick Nielsen regarding their band's new album appropriately called The Latest. Here's an excerpt: Rockpages.gr: You released the album yourselves, which I think is a statement. Rick: Yeah, we've been around longer than any of the record companies we've ever been with. We've been told through the years, "you should do this", and "you should do that", but we are Cheap Trick! We make our own mistakes! Rockpages.gr: Do you think that this is the way for the future for every band? Since, piracy is up, and record sales are down? Rick: I think for such a band like us, the record sales are down overall, but at the same time we are involved in more things than we ever were. We are involved in TV shows, movies, ring tones, video games…things that weren't around when we started. And the fact that we are still playing a lot, and we are putting out records with the original guys, this is a thing that nobody can buy, or put together. For example, nobody ever bought an Epic record, or a "Michael Jackson" label; they bought their artist, they don't care about the label. I think that something that the artists have found out is that the labels really have not been there for them. People come to see Cheap Trick, they don't come to see the record company. It's nice to have someone to help you promote, but then you have to pay that money back anyhow. They are doing a little favor, but not much! Read the full interview on: www.rockpages.gr/detailspage.aspx?id=3339&type=1&lang=EN. TRACY G TALKS CHRISTMAS CD: Guitarist Tracy G featured in new The Right to Rock Podcast. TheRighttoRock.com has issued their latest Podcast (episode #93), featuring guitarist Tracy G. Tracy took time out of his busy schedule to discuss his latest release A Frost G Christmas as well as other current projects. Tracy gives us the lowdown of how his latest CD came together as well as what fans can expect for the new year. Interview last approx. 60 min. Merry Christmas Muthas! Well it is that time of year again, that's right it's time to get liquored up and bang your head with a turkey leg. I know this isn't for everyone, but if Genghis and Ragman it's kind of tradition. Another tradition the boys do, it unveil their kick and kisses list of the year. Join G & R while they discuss the best and worst moments of 2009. Next the boys grab a glass of eggnog and check in with their good friend Tracy G. Tracy discusses his new Christmas CD as well as his future plans. Merry Christmas Everybody! TOBY KNAPP - THE CAMPAIGN/SHREDGUY RECORDS JANUARY 19: Toby Knapp has had a long and storied career in heavy metal music. He signed with Shrapnel Records at the age of twenty, where he released his first instrumental solo CD Guitar Distortion. From there Toby formed the classic heavy metal band Onward, and was signed to the Century Media label. With Onward, Toby released two CDs which were critically acclaimed. After Onward disbanded Toby went into the Black Metal genre, releasing a CD under the name of Waxen, and began his solo career once again. Two virtuoso type guitar releases followed, before Toby joined Darkane to be their touring guitarist in 2009. As 2010 approaches, Toby is ready to unleash The Campaign. However this time, Toby is not content with making another shredfest type CD. So he enlisted the help of four vocalists from different genres in the heavy metal realm. Attila Csihar (of Mayhem), Dean Sternberg (ex-Into Eternity), Tom Cline (Noise Auction), and Jeff Gruslin (ex-Vital Remains). The result of this ambitious project, is a heavy metal masterpiece that has received acclaim from fans around the world who have heard samples of this CD. Pre-orders are being taken at www.myspace.com/shredguyrecords. HERMAN RAREBELL SIGNS WITH DARK STAR RECORDS: We are pleased to announce Dark Star Records has signed a deal with Herman Rarebell drummer from the multiple-platinum recording artist Scorpions! Herman Rarebell, also known as, Herman Ze German, has 78 Gold and 30 Platinum records to his credit. Herman's latest solo release Take It As It Comes is scheduled for release on Dark Star Records March 23, 2010. Herman's audio book My Life As A Scorpion will be included with the new album as a special pre-order deal. Tour dates to be announced soon. Check out his video for Take it as it Comes at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8tBHC3g1a0. WebLink: www.hermanrarebell.com / www.myspace.com/hermanzegerman / www.the-scorpions.com/english. LIKE A STORM ANNOUNCES GUITAR WINNER; TOUR WITH SHINEDOWN, PUDDLE OF MUDD, & SKILLET: After making their presence felt across North America and debuting at number 61 on Billboard's New Artists Chart from tour sales alone of their head-turning debut album, The End Of The Beginning, New Zealand natives Like A Storm continue to win fans nationwide with their haunting, powerful riffs and infectious melodies and are gearing up for even more in 2010. One such fan, Phillip Weber of Marathon, FL, is the proud recipient of a newly autographed Paul Reed Smith guitar, as a result of being named the winner of the band's recent "PRS Guitar Giveaway Contest", sponsored by the legendary axe manufacturers. The breakout quartet – composed of brothers Matt (vocals, guitars, programming, didgeridoo), Chris (vocals, guitar, programming) and Kent (bass, vocals, programming) Brooks plus drummer Thomas Karanasos – is cranking up the energy most everywhere you look. Like A Storm's adrenaline-packed music can be prominently heard on television, where their song "Lie To Me", is serving as the theme song for TNA Wrestling's highly-anticipated Pay-Per-View special "Genesis", which airs January 17th, 2010. Fresh off their successful tour with fellow Vancouver, B.C. based rockers Veer Union and looking to start the New Year off strong, Like A Storm heads back out on the road again starting Jan. 22 in Albany, NY. Like A Storm joins Shinedown, Puddle of Mudd, and Skillet to kick some major ass in the following cities: 1/22/2010 Albany, NY Washington Avenue Armory 1/26/2010 Boston, MA House of Blues 1/28/2010 Bethlehem, PA Stabler Arena/Lehigh University 1/29/2010 Atlantic City, NJ House of Blues 1/30/2010 Lewiston, ME Lewiston Urban Civic Center 2/1/2010 Rochester, NY Main Street Armory 2/2/2010 Youngstown, OH The Covelli Centre 2/3/2010 University Park, PA Bryce Jordan Center 2/5/2010 Detroit, MI The Fillmore Detroit 2/8/2010 Rochester, MN Taylor Arena at Mayo Clinic 2/11/2010 Ft. Wayne, IN Allen County 2/12/2010 Des Moines, IA Val Air Ballroom 2/13/2010 Peoria, IL Peoria Civic Center Exhibition Hall Be on the lookout for future collaborations that are currently in the works, too. Like A Storm recently took time to shoot video for an "artist one-on-one" series with actor Eric Bossick, star of the upcoming movie "Tetsuo: The Bullet Man", and directed by cult filmmaker Shinya Tsukamoto. The video series is set to debut in January. Like A Storm will also be announcing a "Storm the Dorm" contest during the Shinedown dates; fans will enter to win an acoustic performance from the group at their dorm during certain stops of the tour. For more information on Like A Storm, including tour dates and locations, please visit them at www.myspace.com/likeastorm.   CD SHOWCASE UPDATED: Online today - the January 29 releases due from Frontiers Records - Wig Wam, Keel, The Murder Of My Sweet and Bruce Kulick. Check them out now.

 

 

Tuesday, January 05, 2010

RIP TOYZ BASSIST JEROME PERDU: Sad news to kick off the year, with the unfortunate death of Toyz bass player Jérôme Perdu last week. The French melodic rock band are on the eve of releasing their new studio album. He leaves behind a wife and 2 children. R.I.P. Jerome.   ROYAL HUNT'S TENTH OPUS: Royal Hunt reveal the art work for their tenth studio release; simply named X. The track list: Episode X (Arrival) – End of the Line – King for a Day – The Well – Army of Slaves – Shadowman – Back to Square One – Blood Red Stars – The Last Leaf – Falling Down – Episode X (Departure).   7TH HEAVEN'S BONUS DVD: 7th Heaven have added even more value to their great USA-UK release, with the addition of a bonus DVD featuring video clips created for the album - Better This Way, Cellophane, Gravity, This Summers Gonna Last Forever, Still Be Here. Available via the band's webstore at: www.7thheavenband.com.

 

 

Monday, January 04, 2010

GLENN HUGHES JOINS KEVIN SHIRLEY IN L.A. STUDIO: In the words of legendary vocalist Glenn Hughes (Solo, HTP, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Trapeze) "And God said...Its Time to Rock 'n Roll....". Yes, Glenn started recording his brand new project at the weekend with producer Kevin Shirley at the helm. The "supergroup" line-up has not yet been announced and has no name, but Glenn has confirmed he is the vocalist in question and that "it is gonna Rock.. And you're gonna get it!!" and "The new Band has now runnin'...it is a spectacle...with the most amazin' players..an orgasm for the mind!!!!" Cannot wait to hear more about this and who is involved. Stay tuned. WARP DRIVE UNRELEASED MATERIAL AVAILABLE NOW: After working on getting this together all summer, Mark Woerpel of Warp Drive/Blackfoot has finally released Warp Drive's 2nd Unreleased CD on iTunes, Napster, Amazon and Rhapsody. The working title for the CD when they were originally recording it in the early 90's was "Speed Of Life". The album was shelved when Mark joined Blackfoot. All these years later, Mark dug them out and reworked and updated them a little for a release. Unfortunately, Mark doesn't want to do pressed CD's, so online digital download is all that will be available for this. If you liked their first release called Gimme Gimme from 1989, you'll love this new one as well. The NEW title for this CD is Something To Believe In. Track Listing: 1. Rock 'n' roll Party In The Streets (Axe Cover) 2. Something To Believe In 3. Fightin' Boyz 4. Hearts Done Time 5. Let The Good Times Roll 6. Lay Me Down 7. Only Memories 8. Black Mamba 9. We Are Our Only Hope 10. Louie's Demise. Purchase via: Amazon and Napster. Also look on iTunes and Rhapsody.   TALISMAN SHOW POSTPONED: A little bit of bad news here - the previously announced 'one last Talisman gig/Marcel Jacob Tribute' has been postponed pending further updates. Jeff Scott Soto told me the guys were just re-thinking the best way to pay tribute to Marcel and would advise me of new plans ASAP.   ROXX PRODUCTIONS SIGNS 80's CHRISTIAN METAL ARTIST CRYSTAVOX: San Diego, CA.| After 20 years of silence; one of Christian Metal's loudest bands is back, with a great story and a line of new limited releases in collaboration with Roxx Productions. Crystavox, based out of San Diego, CA., recently met again informally to mark the 20 year anniversary of the bands first record deal (Regency 1989). Discussions progressed, causing the band to research where the original master recordings were located. Crystavox lead guitarist, Tony Lopez, located the master tapes - stored in a warehouse in Burbank, CA. The previous record label; Ocean Records, released the Archived Media back to Crystavox. "We were finally in possession of all the two-inch masters from both records but after 20 years in storage, we would have to bake the tapes in order to allow them to pass through a tape machine again," said Lopez. "Convection baking worked and we were able to digitize the tapes in high resolution to the Pro Tools format," Lopez concluded. Not only did the band now have control over a remix of such hit songs as "Scarifice" (#1 PRR 1990), "Home Again" (#3 CCM 1990), and "It's All Right" (#7 PRR 1990), but also discovered a "never released" live concert and MTV style video. Bringing this dated and worn media back to life fell on the shoulders of drummer, Fred Helm, who had become a director and producer for regional and national televisions shows since his departure from Crystavox. "Finally getting to load this live show into our production studio was so much fun," said Helm. "The only copy we had was a 20 year old VHS tape that had been played several times over the years. All the blacks were grey, the color was washed and in 1990, Widescreen TV did not exist. We have corrected the color issues and re-mastered the video in the 16:9 format. These videos; which consist of 4 live songs and 4 MTV-style video productions, will also include a recently recorded, "where are they now" segment - shot in HD, and featuring the band "self narrating" the story of Crystavox. The band took a shot at remixing the old songs to see if modern technology could add a new edge to the hit songs recorded so long ago - when MP3's, the internet and non-linear digital recording did not even exist. "The pre mixes were good enough to import a complete Pro Tools HD system into the production studio and take a serious shot at remixing the old songs," said Crystavox song writer and guitarist Loren Holmquist. "When I heard the pre-mixes, I was astounded as to the clarity and general lack of over-processed sounds that we had gotten used to," said Adam Lee Kemp, lead singer for Crystavox. "The 80's were all about excess; in vocals, layered harmonies, guitars and effects." "Consequently, I knew that converting those previous concepts into a current format would involve a major overhaul in order to synchronize the delivery with modern music and culture." "Ultimately, Fred was able to start-from-scratch and re-mix these New Versions using a minimal portion of subtle effects - causing the songs to appear modern, 20 years after they were recorded." Kemp concluded. The songs have been totally redone; new guitars, drums and an over-sampling method vastly increasing the mastered volume of each song to today's standards. The re-discovery of Crystavox in 2010 comes complete with a custom built media website featuring the bands songs and videos. The new release entitled, "The 20 Year Mix" will include a DVD and the "Best Of" songs released through Roxx Records/Roxx Productions. "I realized Crystavox might be in the position to re-release its library which, in its original versions would have done well. Realizing the songs had been remixed and there was a DVD interested Roxx," said Bill Bafford, President of Roxx Productions. "We are very excited about this limited release and the relationship with Crystavox." The release is set for Early Spring 2010 on Roxx Records. After the break up of Crystavox in early 1992, original members Adam Lee Kemp, Loren Holmquist, Fred Helm and Tony Lopez continued in the production and recording industries recording over 45 releases and 27 television shows. WebLinks: www.crystavox.com / www.roxxproductions.com. BREAKING IT DOWN: The Breakdown Room recently spoke with Trans-Siberian Orchestra vocalist Jeff Scott Soto on his upcoming activities for 2010, his past fronting Journey and some of his most recent releases. Check it out at www.breakdownroom.net/jss-110.html. Also, a new review of King's X's official bootleg, titled Tales from the Empire, is online at www.breakdownroom.net/kingsx-tales.html and in-store for January is a feature article on ex-Spock's Beard vocalist Neal Morse, written by Senior Editor Gregory Twachtman. FEATURE REVIEWS UPDATED: The following new Reviews have been opened up for you to add your own opinions now. Feel free to add comments to: Bon Jovi / The Circle, Blackwood Creek / Blackwood Creek, Spin Gallery / Embrace, On The Rise / Dream Zone, Dare / Arc Of The Dawn, Mike Tramp / Rock N Roll Circuz, 101 South / No U-Turn. Go Review Now! PS. Happy New Year folks!